The magic of the screens is hard to forget long after the closing credits have rolled. This is typical of most European filming locations. They have a way of stirring one’s wanderlust, making you want to jump right into the scenes you love.

Imagine exploring the real-life settings of your favorite films when going on a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh. This enchanting city is filled with spots that inspired J.K. Rowling as she created the wizarding world everyone adores. It’s no wonder that some of the best tours in Edinburgh revolve around these magical sites, where you can wander down streets that inspired Diagon Alley or visit the very cafes where parts of the books were written. Now, let’s explore some European locations for the ultimate addition to your bucket list.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia - "Game of Thrones"
If you’re a “Game of Thrones” fan, you’ve probably fantasized about walking the streets of King’s Landing. Well, you can. Dubrovnik, with its stunning medieval walls, narrow streets, turquoise waters, and ancient fortresses, served as the backdrop for the fictional city.

As you stroll through the cobbled streets, it’s easy to see why this UNESCO World Heritage site was chosen to represent the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, King’s Landing. Believe it, the real thing is just as epic as it looks on screen.

2. Alnwick Castle, England - "Harry Potter Series"
Welcome to Hogwarts! Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, is one of the most iconic filming locations from the “Harry Potter” series. This majestic castle served as the exterior of Hogwarts in the first two films, and yes, this is where Harry had his first flying lesson.

Wandering around the castle grounds, you can almost hear the flutter of broomsticks and the echo of spells being cast. It’s a must-visit for any Potterhead looking to relive the magic.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland - "Avengers: Infinity War"
Gather around Marvel fans. Edinburgh’s historic streets and dramatic architecture provided the perfect backdrop for some intense action scenes in "Avengers: Infinity War." Remember that epic battle where Vision and Scarlet Witch are ambushed by Thanos’s minions? That all went down in the heart of Edinburgh, with the city’s iconic Royal Mile and Waverley Station playing key roles. Exploring this city, you might just find yourself looking over your shoulder, half-expecting to see a superhero sprinting by.

4. Glencoe, Scotland - "Another Part of the Harry Potter Series"
Glencoe’s wild, rugged landscapes were the backdrop for several scenes in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," most notably the area around Hagrid’s Hut. The misty mountains and dramatic scenery of Glencoe perfectly capture the magical atmosphere of the wizarding world. Standing in this breathtaking location, you’ll feel like you’re right there with Harry, Ron, and Hermione, preparing for their next adventure.

5. Santorini, Greece - "Mamma Mia!"
If “Mamma Mia!” had you imagine living the idyllic life in Greece, bump up Santorini in your must-visit list. With its whitewashed buildings, sapphire-blue domes, and stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea, it’s no wonder this island is a popular vacation destination. The town of Oia, in particular, is a picture-perfect paradise where you can sing your heart out and dance in the streets.

Endnote
These European filming locations are more than just pretty backdrops. They are the kind of places that make you feel like you’re living inside a movie. Whether you’re reenacting your favorite scenes or just soaking up the beauty, these destinations are sure to ignite your sense of adventure.