Walk Where the Stars Have Walked: 10 Filming Locations in Europe You Can Actually Visit

Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and thought, “I’d love to go there!”? One of the joys of traveling solo through Europe is the freedom to follow your own interests—and if you love film and television, visiting real-world filming locations can add a whole new layer of excitement and connection to your journey. Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, spy thrillers, or rom-coms, Europe is full of iconic spots where your favorite scenes came to life.

Here are some fantastic filming sites across Europe that are perfect for solo travelers over 50 looking for something a little different and utterly delightful.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones

Even if you're not a fantasy fan, Dubrovnik is worth visiting for its stunning medieval walls, seaside views, and warm hospitality. But if you are a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll instantly recognize it as King’s Landing. You can walk the very walls where Cersei’s infamous “walk of shame” took place or visit Fort Lovrijenac, which served as the Red Keep.

🧭 Travel Tip: Join a locally guided walking tour to get behind-the-scenes trivia while feeling completely safe and oriented in the Old Town’s winding streets.

2. Notting Hill, London – Notting Hill

For those who love charming romantic comedies, the colorful neighborhood of Notting Hill in London will feel instantly familiar. Visit the famous blue door, take Hugh Grant’s stroll through the Portobello Road Market, and enjoy tea at one of the area’s adorable cafés.

🧳 Packing Tip: Bring comfortable shoes—London is best explored on foot, and there’s a lot to see beyond the movies, too.

3. Highclere Castle, England – Downton Abbey

Fans of British period dramas will instantly recognize Highclere Castle, the real-life estate used as the Crawley family home in Downton Abbey. Located just outside London, it makes for a lovely day trip into the English countryside.

🌸 Solo Travel Perk: The grounds are perfect for a peaceful stroll or quiet picnic. You can take your time exploring without anyone rushing you.

4. Paris, France – Emily in Paris & Midnight in Paris

Whether you prefer your Paris romantic and wistful or frothy and fashion-forward, the City of Light has been featured in countless productions. Walk across the Pont Alexandre III like Emily, or time travel with Owen Wilson’s character through Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.

🥐 Café Tip: Paris cafés are ideal for solo travelers—nobody will blink an eye if you spend an hour sipping espresso and watching the world go by.

5. Vienna, Austria – Before Sunrise

If you’re drawn to slower, more introspective travel, follow in the footsteps of Jesse and Céline from Before Sunrise. Vienna offers gorgeous architecture, cozy bookstores, and quiet corners that are perfect for solo exploration and thoughtful reflection.

🎶 Evening Idea: Catch a classical concert in one of the city’s historic halls. Most venues offer affordable single-seat options, making it ideal for solo travelers.

6. Skellig Michael, Ireland – Star Wars: The Force Awakens & The Last Jedi

For something more off-the-beaten-path, consider a visit to Skellig Michael, an island off Ireland’s southwest coast where Rey meets Luke Skywalker. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs and ancient monastic ruins.

⚠️ Know Before You Go: The boat ride and steep steps make this best for those with good mobility, but the experience is unforgettable if you’re up for the challenge.

7. Spain – Game of Thrones (Again!)

If Dubrovnik is a bit far for your itinerary, Girona in northeastern Spain offers another stunning Game of Thrones backdrop. Its medieval quarter stood in for Braavos and parts of King's Landing. And unlike Dubrovnik, it’s not packed with cruise ship tourists.

In southwest Spain, Seville’s Royal Alcazar served as the backdrop for the Water Gardens of Dorne, the opulent palace of the fan-favorite House Martell. Nearby, the town of Osuna and Plaza de Toros (the Osuna Bullring) stood in for Daznak's Pit, the largest fighting pit in the Slaver's Bay city of Meereen.

🍷 Local Flavor: Girona has fantastic food—don’t miss a solo tapas crawl through the old town. And Seville boasts the country’s best flamenco dancing!

8. Matera, Italy – No Time to Die & The Passion of the Christ

The ancient cave city of Matera in southern Italy has starred in everything from James Bond films to historical epics. Its unique stone dwellings and dramatic cliffside views feel cinematic in person, too.

🛏️ Stay Smart: Book a room in a restored cave hotel—many cater well to solo travelers with warm hospitality and accessible tours.

9. Scotland – Outlander

If you're an Outlander fan, visiting Scotland is like stepping straight into Claire and Jamie’s world. Many of the series' most iconic scenes were filmed at real-life castles, villages, and landscapes across the country. Doune Castle stood in for Castle Leoch, while the village of Culross represents the fictional Cranesmuir. The dramatic standing stones of Craigh na Dun were inspired by—and filmed near—Kinloch Rannoch.

🏰 Make It Easy: There are several guided Outlander-themed tours departing from Edinburgh and Glasgow that take care of transport and history lessons, which is perfect if you prefer a low-effort day trip with built-in companionship.

10. Valencia, Spain – Star Wars: Andor

In an era filled with danger, deception, and intrigue, Cassian Andor embarks on a path that is destined to turn him into a Rebel hero. Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences by architect Santiago Calatrava serves as the futuristic backdrop for this series.

🌸 Travel Perk: Come and visit me in my hometown!

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to be a hardcore cinephile to enjoy visiting filming locations. These sites add a sense of familiarity and fun to your travels, giving you a playful lens through which to explore Europe’s rich cultures and histories. Best of all, these destinations are ideal for solo travelers—they're walkable, welcoming, and well-loved by visitors of all ages.

So whether you're channeling your inner Lady Mary, Jedi, or Julia Roberts, remember: the world is your set, and you're the star of your own adventure.

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