Spain on film – 10 places to follow in famous actors’ footsteps

Spain has attracted international film productions for decades thanks to its varied landscapes, reliable sunshine and rich history.
Whether you live in an EU country or are planning a trip to Spain, here are ten well-known filming locations you can easily visit – with short tips to help you make the most of each stop.
Traveltip: Autumn and winter offer pleasant temperatures and far fewer visitors,making them ideal for film-location sightseeing.
1.Real Alcázar, Seville – Game of Thrones (Dorne)
This14th-century palace became the Water Gardens of Dorne in season 5. Several key scenes with Jaime Lannister and the Martells were filmed here.
Tip: Book tickets online in advance and combine your visit with tapas in the nearby Santa Cruz quarter.
2. Plaza deEspaña, Seville – Star Wars: Episode II
The famous semi-circular square doubled as the city of Theed on Naboo, where Anakin and Padmé walk beneath the arcades.
Bonus: Also used in Lawrence of Arabia and The Dictator. The square is open 24/7.
3.Playa de la Caleta, Cádiz – Die Another Day (James Bond)
Halle Berry’s iconic beach scene was filmed here – standing in for Cuba.
Tip: Stay for sunset and try fried fish and a drink at a nearby chiringuito.
4.Playa de Mónsul, Almería – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
The dramatic beach landing and bird-scaring scene was shot on this wild volcanic beach in Cabo de Gata Natural Park.
Tip: Bring water and sun protection – there are no facilities.
5.Tabernas Desert, Almería – Europe’s Wild West
This is Europe’s only true desert and the main location for classic spaghetti westerns such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
Today: You can visit preserved film sets and western parks like Oasys Mini Hollywood and Fort Bravo.
6. LaMalagueta Beach, Málaga – The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)
The final scenes set on the Cayman Islands were actually filmed on Málaga’s citybeach.
Tip: Try grilled sardines (espeto) at one of the beach restaurants.
7.Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao – The World Is Not Enough
Pierce Brosnan’s Bond appears in an opening chase set around this futuristic museum by Frank Gehry.
Tip: Combine the visit with pintxos and a glass of local txakoli wine nearby.
8.Old Town of Girona – Game of Thrones
Girona stood in for both Braavos and King’s Landing in season 6.
Highlights include the cathedral steps and the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter.
Tip: Many self-guided maps and fan tours are available online.
9.City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia – Tomorrowland and Westworld
This striking modern complex became a futuristic city scape in major international productions.
Tip: Don’t miss the science museum and IMAX building – and try authentic paella while in Valencia.
10.Gothic Quarter, Barcelona – Perfume: The Story of a Murderer
Barcelona’s medieval streets were transformed into 18th-century Paris.
Plaza Sant Felip Neri and the area around the cathedral appear in key scenes.
Tip: Explore the quarter on foot and combine with nearby landmarks suchas La Rambla.
From royal palaces and deserts to futuristic architecture and historic city centers, Spain offers one of Europe’s richest collections of real film locations.
Many of them are easily accessible by train or low-cost flights from anywhere in the EU – making Spain a perfect destination for travelers who want to combine culture, cinema and great food.
Originaltext by Oskar Wahlbäck – edited and adapted for readers of Spaindianvia.
10 Reasons to Buy Property in the Bay of Mazarrón, Spain
The Bay of Mazarrón, located on thebeautiful Costa Cálida in the Murcia region, is becoming an increasinglypopular destination for international property buyers. With its stunningcoastline,...
more
Costa Cálida, Murcia Region – A Growing Area for Property Buyers
Are you dreaming of buying property in Spain, but looking for something more authentic, affordable, and less crowded than the well-known hotspots? Then Costa Cálida in the Murcia region is an area...
more
How Much Does It Cost to Own Property in Spain?
Buying property in Spain is a dream for many – but it’s important to understand all the costs involved, both during the purchase process and once you own your home.Here’s a simple and clear guide...
more
New EU rules for travelling with dogs and cats – in force from April 2026
On 22 April 2026, new EU regulations for travelling with companion animals will come into force. If you travel with a dog or cat within the EU, or betweenthe EU and non-EU countries, it is...
more