Ever watched a film or TV programme and thought, “Blimey, I wish I were there”? As it happens, you absolutely can. Not all the bits on television are constructed within a Hollywood studio—some of the most iconic moments were shot in real locations that you can visit yourself. From classic sitcom homes to ancient temples chiselled into rock, these locations allow you to step straight into television legend. Here’s a 10-countdown of must-visit filming locations where fiction meets reality.
10. The Painted Ladies, San Francisco – Full House
If you’re a fan of Danny Tanner’s pep speeches and Uncle Jesse’s guitar licks, you’ll immediately spot San Francisco’s Painted Ladies. Pastel Victorian houses were a location in the Full House opening sequence, particularly the picnic site at Alamo Square Park. The Tanner family’s real house is a mile from here, but the fans still come in droves for this retro photo opportunity.
9. Mokule’ia Beach, Oahu – Lost
Oceanic Flight 815’s crash site wasn’t CGI—it was Mokule’ia Beach on the north shore of Oahu. The beach’s golden sand was used as the primary camp for the main survivors in season one of Lost. You can stroll along the same beach where Jack, Kate, and Sawyer had a disagreement about smoke monsters, and local tour companies will take you to even more sites, such as the village of the Dharma Initiative.
8. Point Dume, Malibu – Planet of the Apes
Few film conclusions are so iconic as Charlton Heston discovering the desolate Statue of Liberty in Planet of the Apes. That stunning reversal was filmed at Point Dume, a rugged portion of Malibu beach. No post-apocalyptic simians in sight today—just surfers, hikers, and film enthusiasts celebrating one of science fiction’s most memorable reveals.
7. Skopelos, Greece – Mamma Mia!
Love ABBA? Love beaches? Skopelos is your dream destination. The Greek island was used twice as the sun-kissed backdrop of Mamma Mia!. With its blue-tinged waters and hillside churches, it’s like entering a musical number. You can even go to Agios Ioannis Chapel, where Meryl Streep sang her unforgettable “The Winner Takes It All.”
6. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland – Harry Potter
For Harry Potter enthusiasts, few images are more enchanting than the Hogwarts Express chugging over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This striking stone viaduct in the Scottish Highlands was catapulted to fame by its appearances on screen. Even better, you can travel the Jacobite steam train over the same lines—invisible cloak not needed.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones
The Westeros capital wasn’t dreamed up on a screen—it’s Dubrovnik, Croatia. The medieval Old City, with stone fortifications and orange roofs, served as King’s Landing during Game of Thrones. Stroll along the same streets as Cersei, see the Pile Gate, climb the city walls, and witness where great battles were waged.
4. Hanapepe Valley, Kauai – Jurassic Park
Cue the theme music—Hanapepe Valley in Kauai is dinosaur country (at least on screen). This lush valley, with a waterfall as a backdrop, served as the helicopter landing point for Jurassic Park. Tours today will see you walk through this and other movie locations on the island. Raptors may be imaginary, but the tropical landscape is all too real.
3. Al Khazneh, Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
That spectacular temple concealing the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade? Al Khazneh in Petra, Jordan, which was carved into rose-red rock over 2,000 years ago. This ancient marvel is one breathtaking entrance. Although the film brought its own Hollywood magic, the façade itself is as movie-like in real life as it is on film.
2. Hobbiton, Matamata, New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings
In the rolling green countryside of New Zealand is Hobbiton, where Middle-earth literally comes alive. The location was left intact after filming The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, with its hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and garden beds filled with flowers. Guided tours make you wonder if Frodo is going to come bursting out at any given moment with the One Ring.
1. Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps – Rocky
Few cinematic moments are more inspiring than Rocky Balboa’s heroic jog up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Fans worldwide ascend the stairs, punch their fists into the air, and recreate the historic moment. It is not merely a stop for tourists—it is a representation of persistence, toughness, and underdog mentality.
Whether you’re a movie buff or just hunting for your next great travel story, these filming locations prove that Hollywood magic isn’t always behind a green screen. Sometimes, all it takes is a plane ticket (and maybe a little imagination) to step into your favorite story.