The lead up to the 97th Academy Awards has highlighted the significance of stunning landmarks as popular filming locations worldwide. New research by film location experts Giggster has unveiled the most filmed landmarks in the US, the UK, and beyond, showcasing iconic backdrops that have attracted filmmakers for over a century. These locations not only provide a captivating setting for movies but also serve as tourist attractions that draw visitors eager to experience the magic of cinema firsthand. California, with over 380,000 movies filmed, leads as the most popular filming location, followed by New York with more than 294,000 films set in the Empire State.
London in the UK emerges as a top filming destination outside the US, boasting nearly 77,500 movies filmed in the city. Sydney’s Opera House breaks into the list as the most filmed landmark outside of the US and UK, appearing in over 160 movies. The Eiffel Tower and other iconic landmarks in Paris like the Louvre Museum and the Arc de Triomphe also capture the attention of filmmakers, solidifying the city’s status as a favorite setting for movie scenes. Italy stands out with six locations on the list, including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the ruins of Pompeii, making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of set-jetting.
Surprisingly, Madrid ranks as the most filmed city outside of the US and UK, featuring in nearly 55,000 films due to its historical architecture and favorable climate. Argentina takes the top spot as the most filmed country, appearing in over 112,000 movie titles, showcasing its diverse landscapes from Patagonia to Buenos Aires. The Best Picture nominees for 2025 also highlight various filming locations, with ‘Anora’ showcasing Brooklyn and Las Vegas, ‘The Brutalist’ filmed in Budapest and Tuscany, ‘A Complete Unknown’ shot in New Jersey, and ‘Conclave’ set in Rome with a replica of the Sistine Chapel.
For travelers planning their next trip around their favorite movie scenes, a train journey across Europe could be an exciting venture to explore the continent’s most cinematic sights. With landmarks in Madrid, Argentina, Sydney, Paris, and Italy offering a glimpse into the world of cinema, film enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the magic of their favorite movies by visiting these iconic locations. Whether it’s marveling at the Eiffel Tower in Paris or experiencing the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum in Rome, these famous landmarks have left an indelible mark on the silver screen and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
