Last Updated: 29 Sep 2024
If you’ve ever considered booking a trip because you saw a stunning location in a movie or TV show, you're not alone. According to the latest British Airways Travel Trends Report, 78% of travellers have been inspired to visit a location after seeing it on screen, with nearly a quarter actually booking those trips.
So, why just watch your favourite movies and shows when you can step into their worlds? In this blog, we explore some fantastic locations featured in popular media that you can visit with your Avios.
House of the Dragon: Portugal
If you're a fan of House of the Dragon, a trip to Dragonstone (or Monsanto, which is the actual name of the town it’s been shot in) has to be at the top of your wish list. Perched on a hillside, the tiny village of Monsanto gained recognition as "the most Portuguese village of Portugal" after winning a government-sponsored competition in 1938. The village's history traces back to the 13th century when it was inhabited during King Afonso Henriques' reign. The castle was built in 1239 and was once controlled by the Knights Templar. It served as a dragon's refuge during filming, and you can now step into the shoes of the show's characters to experience it live.
While in Monsanto, don’t miss the Mother Church or Church of St. Salvador, which dates back to the 15th century, and the houses that blend into the landscape. These homes are built among and under massive granite boulders scattered across the hill (Montes Sanctus), where the village gets its name.
After exploring, try Casa da Velha Fonte if you're hungry, a restaurant that serves traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist. If you want to keep exploring, other nearby places are worth visiting. Serra da Estrela and the town of Covilhã are just an hour's drive away. Or, if you head south, stop by Idanha a Nova. This town is known not for dragons but for its local music, particularly the adufe, a square percussion instrument. Its music has earned it a spot in UNESCO's Creative Cities network.
Monsanto is only an hour's drive away from Lisbon airport. If you’re wondering how many Avios points for a flight are needed, you can book an off-peak return Economy British Airways flight from London to Lisbon for just 23,500 Avios plus £1 per person.
Dune: Italy and Abu Dhabi
While Dune: Part One was primarily shot in Jordan, Dune: Part Two features desert scenes filmed in Abu Dhabi and introduces a new location: Altivole, Italy.
The movie's famous Kaitain scenes with Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh) and Reverend Mother Mohiam (Charlotte Rampling) were filmed in the Brion Tomb. The tomb, also known as the Brion Sanctuary, is located in San Vito d'Altivole near Treviso, Italy. Designed by Carlo Scarpa between 1968 and 1978, it serves as a 2,000 m² extension to the nearby municipal cemetery. The sanctuary is considered a masterpiece of post-modernist architecture and features concrete structures, gardens, and water features. Filming at the Brion Tomb was only allowed because the Brion family admired Frank Herbert's Dune and Denis Villeneuve's film adaptation.
Other places to visit in Altivole include the Museo di Storia Naturale e Archeologia, the 12th-century Castle of Castelfranco Veneto, and the Chiesa di San Vito, which features 14th-century frescoes.
As for Abu Dhabi, you can take an ocean cruise to uncover the city’s pearl diving traditions or explore the oases of Al Ain to see ancient irrigation systems in use. Within the city, visit Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, which offers insights into the city’s history. Similarly, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is another great option to explore Abu Dhabi’s Islamic roots.
For Italy, grab an off-peak return Economy British Airways flight from London to Venice for 23,500 Avios plus £1 per person. Altivole is just 50 minutes from Venice Airport.
For Abu Dhabi, book off-peak return Premium Economy British Airways flights from London for 85,000 Avios plus £280 per person, or go all out with Business Class for 160,000 Avios plus £350.
Bob Marley, One Love: Jamaica
Bob Marley was born in Trench Town, which served as a key filming location for his biopic. Situated just northwest of downtown Kingston, the town is famous for rocksteady and reggae music and was dubbed the "Hollywood of Jamaica" in the 1960s.
Several scenes from the movie were filmed at Strawberry Hill Resort, where Marley often found peace. Hope Road in Kingston was also shown in the movie to capture the essence of Jamaican concerts. Beyond the screen, Jamaica provides plenty of choices, from white sandy beaches to Caribbean culinary delights. The island also features rugged hiking trails through lush rainforests and mountain vistas, perfect for those looking to combine relaxation with a bit of adventure.
You can get off-peak return Premium Economy British Airways flights to Jamaica from London for 95,000 Avios plus £330 per person. Business Class will cost you 180,000 Avios plus £450.
The White Lotus: Sicily
Located at the tip of Italy, Sicily is famous for its regional cuisine, quaint villages, and centuries of history. It’s also the setting for the second season of The White Lotus. One of the most prominent locations featured in the show is the San Domenico Palace in Taormina, a luxurious hotel perched on the cliffs overlooking the Ionian Sea. Other filming spots include the baroque Palazzo Ducezio in the town of Noto and the coastal town of Cefalù, with its charming old town and beach scenes.
Beyond the show’s filming spots, Sicily is packed with sights that make it worth a visit. The ancient Greek theatres of Taormina, Segesta, and Siracusa bring history to life, with stone amphitheatres that overlook stunning coastal views. Then there’s Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, where you can hike the rugged slopes or admire its power from a cosy village café. Sicily’s mix of scenery, history, and culture gives you endless reasons to explore.
Wondering how many Avios points for a flight are needed? You can book an off-peak return Economy British Airways flight from London to Catania for 27,500 Avios plus £1 per person. Alternatively, they can opt for Palermo at just 23,500 Avios plus £1 per person.
Game of Thrones: Croatia
You’re not alone if the famous show inspires you to find out more about the real-life locations behind the scenes. Lovrijenac Fort dates back to the 11th century and was used as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones. Visiting the fort means experiencing both television history and centuries-old architecture.
Fans will recognise the Jesuit Stairs, made famous by Cersei’s Walk of Shame — a great spot for a few memorable photos. Discover more Game of Thrones locations on Lokrum Island, which was portrayed as the city of Qarth in several episodes, particularly in season two. The island even has a Game of Thrones exhibition in the former Benedictine monastery, complete with the actual Iron Throne, where you can sit and take photos. Other famous locations include Pile Gate, Dubrovnik West Harbor, portrayed as Blackwater Bay in the series, Minceta Tower, shown as 'House of the Undying,' and many more.
Book off-peak return Economy British Airways flights from London to Dubrovnik for 23,500 Avios plus £1 per person.
Ready to Travel?
With some help from your Avios points, you can visit some of the most iconic TV and movie locations around the globe. So, why wait? Your next great story is just an Avios flight away.
Planning your next getaway?
While you explore our travel tips, check out Last Minute for fantastic hotel deals to complete your perfect trip. Book now and find great rates on hotels across top destinations!
And don’t forget, Flight Centre is here to help with incredible flight deals to match your travel plans. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise or a bustling city, Flight Centre has the best rates on flights to destinations around the world. Book your flights today.