Explore the Best Movie-Inspired Travel Destinations from Indiana Jones to Harry Potter and Beyond
- Brad Kaplan
- Nov 15, 2025
- 3 min read
Traveling to places that have starred in famous films offers a unique way to experience the magic of movies in real life. Whether you want to walk the ancient paths of Petra like Indiana Jones or cross the iconic viaduct from Harry Potter, these destinations bring stories to life. This guide highlights some of the best movie-inspired travel spots around the world, perfect for fans who want to step into their favorite scenes.
Discover Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Petra is one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites in the world. Known as the "Rose City" for its pink sandstone cliffs, it gained global fame as the location of the temple housing the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Visitors can explore the narrow Siq canyon that leads to the Treasury, the iconic facade seen in the film.
Tips for visiting Petra:
Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool morning light on the rock formations.
Wear sturdy shoes; the terrain involves walking and some climbing.
Hire a local guide to learn about Petra’s history and its role in the movie.
Stay overnight in nearby Wadi Musa to experience Petra by night, when the site is lit by candles.
Petra offers a mix of adventure, history, and cinematic magic that makes it a must-see for movie lovers and travelers alike.
Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland – Harry Potter’s Magical Railway
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is famous for the Hogwarts Express scenes in the Harry Potter series. This curved railway bridge crosses a stunning valley in the Scottish Highlands, and the sight of the steam train crossing it is unforgettable.
How to experience the Glenfinnan Viaduct:
Take the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig during the summer months for a ride on the Hogwarts Express.
Visit the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history and the viaduct’s construction.
Hike to viewpoints near the viaduct for the best photo opportunities.
Combine your trip with exploring nearby Loch Shiel, which appears in the films as the Black Lake.
This location offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and movie nostalgia, ideal for fans of the wizarding world.
Explore New Zealand’s Middle-earth – The Lord of the Rings
New Zealand’s diverse landscapes became the backdrop for the epic Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. From rolling hills to volcanic mountains, many locations are accessible for visitors eager to explore Middle-earth.
Top Middle-earth spots to visit:
Matamata: Home to Hobbiton, where the charming hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn welcome visitors.
Tongariro National Park: The setting for Mordor and Mount Doom, with volcanic landscapes perfect for hiking.
Fiordland National Park: Stunning fjords like Milford Sound featured in the films’ dramatic scenes.
Wellington: Visit the Weta Workshop for behind-the-scenes tours of movie props and effects.
Booking guided tours can help you reach remote locations and learn about the filmmaking process.
Wander Olympic National Forest, USA – Twilight Saga’s Pacific Northwest
The Twilight saga brought attention to the misty forests and rugged coastline of Washington State. Olympic National Forest’s dense woods and wild beaches provide the perfect setting for the vampire romance.
What to do in Olympic National Forest:
Explore the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., with moss-covered trees and quiet trails.
Visit Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach for dramatic ocean views and driftwood-strewn shores.
Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for more Twilight-inspired landscapes.
Stay in nearby towns like Forks or Port Angeles to immerse yourself in the story’s setting.
This destination offers a peaceful escape with a hint of supernatural allure.
Other Famous Film Locations Worth Visiting
Beyond these highlights, many other movie-inspired destinations offer memorable experiences:
Skellig Michael, Ireland: Featured in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, this remote island with ancient monastic ruins is a challenging but rewarding visit.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: Known as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, the city’s medieval walls and streets are perfect for fans.
Alnwick Castle, England: Used as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, the castle offers tours and broomstick training sessions.
Petra’s neighboring Wadi Rum, Jordan: The desert landscape appeared in The Martian and Lawrence of Arabia.
Each location offers a chance to connect with the stories that captivated audiences worldwide.
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