For movie lovers, travelling the world can be a unique opportunity to closely experience the settings that served as the stage for some of the most iconic movies in history. Have you ever imagined driving on the roads that were eternalized in the movies, visiting locations of famous movies where memorable scenes were filmed? It is definitely a journey that not only enriches the travel experience, but also a new perspective on these destinations!
When planning a route that includes locations of famous movies, travelers may dive into stories that marked eras and generations, adding an element of adventure and discovery to their tours. And with this in mind, in this article, we present a list with some of the best cinematographic routes for those who don’t give up driving worldwide. Come with us and enjoy the tips!
6 locations of famous movies to visit by car
Before starting our route through the settings of famous movies, it is important to remember that each one of them has a unique atmosphere, mixing that touch of movie magic with the delicious experience of driving for the first time in a different country or region. So fasten your seat belts and check out the selection we prepared:
1 – Monument Valley, from Forrest Gump
Located in the United States, an iconic road in in Monument Valley – where Forrest Gump decides to stop running – is a region that captures and synthesizes the entire essence of the vast American west. By visiting this place, travelers can experience the same stunning landscapes shown in the movie, with their majestic rock formations and landscapes that extend as far as the eye can see, providing a perfect backdrop for a cozy trip and for those who are seeking stunning pictures and records!
2 – Salzburg, from The Sound of Music
Exactly on the border between Austria and Germany, Salzburg is a city that delights visitors with its Baroque architecture and its meticulously pruned and organized gardens that were used as a setting for the classic The Sound of Music. When visiting the region by car, the driver can drive close to filming locations, such as the gardens from Mirabell Palace, and enjoy a tour in the Alpine landscapes that surround the city, diving in the same musical and cultural environment that is celebrated in the movie.
3 – Dubrovnik, from Game of Thrones
Although this is not a movie, the TV series Game of Thrones deserves an honorable mention in this list. That’s because the story was adapted for the screen in the historical city of Dubrovnik, in Croatia – a region that offers a route full of enchanting roads that meander among castles, ancient fortifications, and cobblestone streets. There, the driver has the opportunity to drive through iconic locations of the series, experiencing a bit of the local culture and diving into the story intrigues and drama, with new discoveries at every turn!
4 – New Zealand, from The Lord of the Rings
Maybe one of the most famous destinations in our list, New Zealand has already turned into a real playground for the fans of The Lord of the Rings franchise. With locations and highlights all over the country, the driver has the opportunity to stroll through the famous green hills – which served as the setting for the hobbit city, for instance – and through the majestic mountains that represented the lands of Gondor. These are landscapes that not only encapsulate the magic of the Middle-earth, but also guarantee route a with breathtaking visuals!
5 – Alnwick Castle, from Harry Potter
Located in the heart of England, the Alnwick castle served as one of the main locations for the famous Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, from the classic Harry Potter saga. The routes allow visitors to explore the story magical world and drive through the small cities of the region that were also used during filming, also offering themed activities that help recreate the movie magic, providing an immersive experience for fans at all ages.
6 – Chapada Diamantina, from Cidade de Deus
And to close the list, we cannot help but include a route – and a move – with 100% Brazilian DNA, right? And our today’s tip is Chapada Diamantina, on the center of Bahia. Although Cidade de Deus is more often associated with favelas in Rio de Janeiro, where the story takes place, many of the crucial scenes were shot in Chapada national park, which provides a unique experience with its impressive rock formations, waterfalls, and tracks that attract adventurers and nature lovers.
Ready for your cinematographic trips? Check out some important precautions before hitting the road!
When planning an expedition to explore your favorite locations of famous movies, it is essential to consider some precautions to ensure a safe and pleasant trip. Hence, before anything else, check the status of the vehicle you intend to use. If you intend to use a rental car, for instance, make sure that it is ready for the road, checking aspects such as tire, brake, and engine conditions.
In addition, it is important to plan your route in advance and be aware of climate conditions in the destination. This includes checking the weather forecast and be prepared for unexpected changes, equipping your car with essential items for emergencies, such as first-aid kits, extra water and food.
Finally, respect the standards and opening hours of the places you intend to visit. Many of these destinations are in protected areas or have specific regulations to preserve their integrity. Find out about these details in order to avoid inconveniences and to contribute to the preservation of scenarios that have inspired different generations of movie fans!
Ow, and if you have extra tips or know other destinations that cannot stay out of a cinematographic trip, share them with us in the comments!
