Movies with the Most Beautiful Locations
Movies can take us to stunning places without leaving our seats. From lush jungles to sparkling cities, some films showcase locations so breathtaking they become characters in their own right. These settings inspire wanderlust, making us dream of visiting them ourselves. Whether it’s a tropical paradise or a historic European town, the right backdrop can elevate a story and leave a lasting impression.
This list highlights 15 movies with the most beautiful locations, each offering a visual feast. From iconic classics to modern gems, these films use their settings to create unforgettable cinematic experiences. Let’s explore these gorgeous destinations and the stories they help tell.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)
New Zealand’s landscapes star as Middle Earth in ‘The Lord of the Rings Trilogy’. The rolling hills of the Shire, filmed in Matamata, feature hobbit holes and lush greenery. Snow-capped mountains, like those in Tongariro National Park, create epic backdrops for Frodo’s journey. The diverse terrain, from Fiordland’s misty peaks to Queenstown’s rivers, makes every scene a visual marvel.
Fans can visit real locations like Hobbiton, a preserved set with guided tours. The South Island’s Southern Lakes offer dramatic views of mountains and forests, perfect for recreating the Paths of the Dead. New Zealand’s untouched beauty makes it a must-visit for any fan of the trilogy.
The Beach (2000)
Thailand’s Maya Bay in the Phi Phi Islands shines in ‘The Beach’. Its turquoise waters, white sand, and limestone cliffs create a paradise that draws Leonardo DiCaprio’s character. The secluded cove, surrounded by jungle, feels like a hidden Eden, despite the film’s darker plot twists.
The bay’s beauty sparked a tourism boom, leading to its closure in 2018 to protect the ecosystem. Visitors can still see nearby islands or take boat tours to glimpse the iconic spot. The film’s visuals make Thailand’s tropical allure impossible to resist.
The Sound of Music (1965)
Salzburg, Austria, is the heart of ‘The Sound of Music’. The city’s baroque architecture and Alpine scenery, like the Mirabell Gardens where ‘Do-Re-Mi’ was filmed, are enchanting. The surrounding mountains and lakes, including Mondsee, where the wedding scene took place, add fairy-tale charm.
Tourists can join ‘Sound of Music’ tours to visit key spots like Schloss Hellbrunn. The vibrant city and its green hills make Salzburg a dream destination for fans of this classic musical.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
‘Eat Pray Love’ takes viewers to Italy, India, and Bali. In Italy, Rome’s cobblestone streets and vibrant markets burst with life. India’s colorful ashrams and Bali’s rice terraces and beaches, like those in Ubud, create a soulful backdrop for Julia Roberts’ journey of self-discovery.
Travelers can explore Rome’s Piazza Navona or Bali’s Monkey Forest. The film’s vivid locations inspire visits to these culturally rich and visually stunning places.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
The Amalfi Coast and Venice in Italy dazzle in ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’. The fictional Mongibello, filmed on the islands of Ischia and Procida, boasts sun-drenched beaches and azure waters. Venice’s grand canals and Rome’s Spanish Steps add timeless elegance to the thriller.
These locations remain popular for their Mediterranean charm. Visitors can stroll Procida’s colorful streets or cruise Venice’s waterways, soaking in the film’s luxurious vibe.
Out of Africa (1985)
Kenya’s Ngong Hills and Maasai Mara shine in ‘Out of Africa’. The vast savannah, dotted with acacia trees, and sweeping sunsets create a romantic and wild backdrop. The film’s safari scenes highlight Kenya’s rich wildlife and open landscapes.
Today, the Maasai Mara National Reserve offers safaris to see elephants and lions. The Ngong Hills, near Nairobi, provide breathtaking views that echo the film’s unforgettable scenery.
Skyfall (2012)
‘Skyfall’ showcases Scotland’s Glencoe and Turkey’s Istanbul. Glencoe’s rugged highlands, with misty valleys and dramatic peaks, set a moody tone for James Bond’s origins. Istanbul’s vibrant Grand Bazaar and historic rooftops add exotic flair to action-packed scenes.
Glencoe is a hiker’s paradise, with trails offering stunning vistas. Istanbul’s mix of cultures and architecture makes it a vibrant destination for travelers chasing Bond’s adventure.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Iceland’s stark beauty takes center stage in ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’. From Seydisfjordur’s colorful village to the vast lava fields and waterfalls like Skogafoss, the landscapes feel otherworldly. Greenland’s icy fjords also add a surreal touch.
Travelers can explore Iceland’s Ring Road to see similar sights or visit Greenland’s remote shores. The film’s adventurous spirit makes these locations perfect for bold explorers.
Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
Singapore’s futuristic skyline and lush gardens glow in ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. Marina Bay Sands, with its infinity pool, and the vibrant Haw Par Villa showcase the city’s blend of modern and traditional. Malaysia’s Langkawi Island adds tropical elegance.
Visitors can tour Gardens by the Bay or relax on Langkawi’s beaches. The film’s opulent settings make Singapore a dazzling destination for luxury and culture.
In Bruges (2008)
Bruges, Belgium, is a medieval gem in ‘In Bruges’. Its cobblestone streets, serene canals, and landmarks like the Belfry and Minnewater Lake create a fairy-tale setting. The city’s charm contrasts with the film’s dark comedy, making it unforgettable.
Bruges is perfect for a walking tour or canal cruise. Its well-preserved architecture and cozy vibe make it a must-see for anyone inspired by the movie.