You don’t have to be a movie buff to recognize some of these real-world breathtaking landscapes and scenes from the big screen.
Consider adding these 10 iconic movie locations to your bucket list and get ready to produce your very own blockbuster TikTok videos while soaking up the sights of these picturesque holiday destinations. Creativity, camera, action!
1. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
The mythical abode of Kong in Kong: Skull Island is graced by the stunning limestone mountains of Ha Long Bay formed some thousand years ago.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay has much to offer to families and thrill seekers alike, whether it’s a luxury cruise tour, or a kayaking expedition through islets, caves and fishing villages.
2. Kauai, Hawaii
Crowned as the prettiest island in Hawaii, Kauai has served as the backdrop for many global blockbuster hits.
The dinosaurs of Jurassic Park have roamed the greener-than-green rainforests, while blue-skinned Avatar beings are bestowed a breathtaking piece of paradise to call their own. Hawaii is indeed the ultimate tropical destination, and it’s probably on your list already!
3. Phang Nga National Park, Thailand
James Bond fans will immediately recall this classic karst scenery from The Man with the Golden Gun. Popularly known as the “James Bond Island”, Phuket is a favorite holiday destination with extensive tour packages inspired by the movie.
Imagine the thrill of speed boating out into the emerald green sea surrounded by majestic limestone rock formations while taking in the enchanting views of Ao Phang-Nga Bay!
4. Skellig Michael, Ireland
For a cinematic destination, look no further than the moody landscapes, dramatic headlands and storm-lashed rocks of Skellig Michael — or Star Wars Island!
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael is located just off the west coast of Ireland. There’s much to soak up on this sacred, sixth-century Irish monastery grounds where Star Wars: The Last Jedi was filmed.
5. Hatley Castle Park, Canada
Marvel fans, here’s one for you! The Hatley Castle Park in Victoria has been a remarkable site for Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men series, as well as the recent Deadpool 2.
Built in 1908, this Edwardian castle is flanked by 10 acres of gorgeous, well-maintained heritage gardens. Of course, the gardens, trails and grounds are open to the public for free.
6. The Lost City of Petra, Jordan
You may not find the Holy Grail at the Lost City of Petra like Indiana Jones did, but the rose-colored facade of this prehistoric city which has been skillfully carved into sandstone mountains since ancient civilization is bound to leave you awestruck.
Visitors may not be allowed inside, but merely being in the presence of one of the seven wonders of the world is enough to stir one’s curiosity and imagination!
7. Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles
Does this scene remind you of a certain musical romantic-comedy film starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone? Yes, it’s La La Land!
Next time you’re headed to the City of Angels, add Griffith Observatory to your itinerary for a fun day of exploring exhibits, watching live shows, peering through telescopes and waiting for that magical blue hour to do your own little dance!
8. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Potterheads have been riding the world-famous Jacobite steam train on the Glenfinnan Viaduct for an 84-mile round trip to experience their very own enchanting journey through jaw-dropping Scottish landscapes, especially the views towards the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel.
9. Christ Church College, Oxford
Next stop: The inimitable Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, or Christ Church Oxford College!
Affectionately called ‘The House’ by its students and staff, Christ Church is a prominent site in Harry Potter films, which only makes perfect sense to spend a whole day soaking up the mesmerizing gothic architecture of the sixteenth-century building. Who’s headed to the Great Hall first?
10. Matamata, New Zealand
If there’s one place that everyone should visit in their lifetime, it’s definitely the home of the hobbits! In the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Middle Earth” was filmed in the charming rural village of Matamata, New Zealand. Quaint thatched cottages with round, colored front doors built into the hills of this idyllic countryside is sure to get you clicking away.
Ready for blockbuster-inspired adventures?
If talented movie producers can create award-winning scenes in these iconic locations, then there’s definitely something for you to take away from all these dreamy destinations – even if they’re only souvenirs and plenty of snapshots. And new creativity highs!
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If you’re looking for some last-minute summer vacation spots, check this out. And if you’re wanting to add more beautiful destinations to your travel bucket list, check out our top 10 most stunning locations.