There’s something magical about standing in the exact spot where your favorite character once walked, whispered something dramatic, or faced down an epic showdown. Whether it’s the Shire’s rolling hills or the Parisian café from your favorite rom-com, touring famous film locations offers a unique blend of real-world adventure and cinematic fantasy. For movie lovers, travel doesn’t just mean going somewhere new—it means stepping into the scenes that shaped their imaginations.

I still remember the first time I walked through King’s Cross Station in London, looking for Platform 9¾—not as a child, but as an adult with goosebumps. Or the time I wandered the streets of Dubrovnik, instantly transported back into the war-ravaged politics of “Game of Thrones.” If you’re a fan of movies or TV shows that have become cultural landmarks, then this kind of travel is like turning a reel into reality.

And here’s the best part—it doesn’t have to cost a fortune or require guided tours. Sometimes, the best moments come from finding that nondescript alleyway, hill, or doorway and realizing… this is it. So pack your camera, pull up your favorite streaming app for inspiration, and get ready for an unforgettable experience: touring famous film locations that bring your favorite stories to life.

London Calling: Harry Potter, Notting Hill, and Sherlock

London is a dream for film fans. From the cobbled markets of “Notting Hill” to the gothic majesty of the “Harry Potter” franchise, every neighborhood hides a cinematic gem. Stop by the Millennium Bridge (famously destroyed by Death Eaters), or visit the real-life Diagon Alley at Leadenhall Market. Walk through Portobello Road Market and pretend you’re Hugh Grant bumping into Julia Roberts. Even 221B Baker Street—home of the world’s most famous detective—is now a museum and selfie hotspot.

If you’re into movie history, check out Visit London’s film location guide—it’s packed with tips for self-guided cinema lovers.

New Zealand: Middle-earth Made Real

“The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies turned New Zealand into the ultimate pilgrimage for fantasy fans. Hobbiton, located in Matamata, is the crown jewel—with its round-doored hobbit holes, lush meadows, and the Green Dragon Inn still serving up cold pints. But the real thrill? Driving across the country to see the mountains, forests, and rivers that became Rivendell, Mordor, and the Paths of the Dead.

Even if you’re not deep into Tolkien lore, the landscapes alone are worth the trip. Pro tip: the New Zealand tourism board has mapped out dozens of filming spots you can explore on your own schedule.

Skellig Michael, Ireland: The Last Jedi’s Island Retreat

For “Star Wars” fans, the moment Rey found Luke Skywalker on a lonely sea-washed island was unforgettable. That otherworldly place? Skellig Michael, off the southwest coast of Ireland. This remote UNESCO World Heritage site feels exactly like another planet—and that’s before you spot the 6th-century stone monastery at the top.

Getting there requires a boat and a strong stomach (the seas are choppy), but standing there, wind whipping through ancient ruins, you’ll understand why this spot was chosen. You don’t need to be a Jedi to feel the force of this place.

For bookings and background, visit Heritage Ireland’s Skellig Michael page.

Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia: Welcome to Westeros

If “Game of Thrones” lit up your screen, then Croatia should be on your travel list. Dubrovnik stood in for King’s Landing with its ancient stone walls and sea-facing battlements. Walk the walls and you’ll recognize scenes from battles, coronations, and betrayals. A few hours north in Split, Diocletian’s Palace was used for scenes in Meereen—and it’s free to explore on foot.

Want a sneak peek before your trip? Croatia’s official site has mapped out all the GOT filming sites around the country.

New York City: Iconic Film Scenes on Every Block

From “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” to “The Avengers,” New York is the ultimate movie set. Central Park alone has hosted everything from “Home Alone 2” to “Elf.” The Upper West Side’s brownstones give you instant “You’ve Got Mail” vibes, while the Ghostbusters firehouse in Tribeca is a must-snap photo opp. Don’t miss Katz’s Deli (“When Harry Met Sally”) or the Empire State Building (“Sleepless in Seattle”).

Movie buffs can explore via self-guided walking apps or even hop on the On Location Tours bus for insider insights.

Touring famous film locations is more than sightseeing—it’s time travel. It’s nostalgia. It’s standing in the middle of your favorite frame and letting the world blur around you. Whether you’re quoting lines at the top of your lungs or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something soul-stirring about stepping into the stories that shaped you. So, what’s your dream film location? Drop it in the comments—and follow WentWorld on social media for more travel inspiration made for screen lovers.