There’s something magical about standing where your favorite on-screen moments came to life. Whether it’s strolling through the streets of Paris like Emily, stepping into the grand temples of Thailand’s The White Lotus 3, or basking in the sweeping desert landscapes of Dune: Part Two, these filming locations are more than just sets—they’re destinations begging to be explored. So grab your camera (or at least pretend you’re in a scene-stealing montage) and let’s take a cinematic journey across the globe.
1. “Gladiator 2” – Fort Ricasoli, Malta
The long-awaited sequel to Gladiator returns to the grandeur of ancient Rome—by way of Malta. Fort Ricasoli, an imposing 17th-century bastion, stands in for the Colosseum once again, with its weathered limestone walls offering an atmospheric backdrop for epic battles. When you’re not imagining yourself in combat, visit Valletta’s historic streets and the stunning Blue Grotto.
Where to Stay: The Phoenicia Malta, a five-star hotel blending history and luxury with stunning harbor views.
2. “Emily in Paris” – Paris and Rome
Love it, hate it, or binge-watch it with a bottle of Bordeaux—Emily in Paris has turned some of Europe’s most picturesque spots into bucket-list locations.
- Paris: Head to Place de l’Estrapade in the 5th arrondissement, where Emily’s apartment, Gabriel’s restaurant, and that charming bakery (yes, the one with the perfect pain au chocolat) sit side by side. Stroll through the Palais Royal Gardens, where Emily finds herself caught between romance and career chaos.
- Rome: The upcoming season takes Emily to the Eternal City, where Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps provide the perfect postcard backdrops.
Where to Stay: Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris; Hotel de Russie in Rome, an opulent retreat with lush gardens and historic charm.
3. “The White Lotus 3” – Thailand
From Sicily to Thailand, The White Lotus continues its tradition of showcasing breathtakingly extravagant resorts. The third season transports its signature blend of satire and scandal to Thailand’s Andaman coastline. Expect lavish settings in Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, with their turquoise waters and secluded beaches.
- Visit the Phi Phi Islands, known for their towering limestone cliffs and impossibly clear waters.
- Explore the ornate temples of Bangkok, a likely setting for the season’s more dramatic moments.
Where to Stay: Amanpuri in Phuket, a serene sanctuary of pavilions and villas nestled on a private beach.
4. “Conclave” – Italy
Robert Harris’s Conclave is coming to the screen, bringing the secretive world of Vatican politics to life. Rome’s Vatican City is the obvious place to start, but beyond St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, visit the medieval Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence offering stunning views of Lake Albano.
Where to Stay: Hotel Hassler Roma, a historic five-star property overlooking the Spanish Steps, offering the ultimate Roman luxury experience.
5. “Dune: Part Two” – Abu Dhabi, UAE
Denis Villeneuve’s Dune transports audiences to the desolate beauty of Arrakis, with many desert sequences filmed in the Empty Quarter near Abu Dhabi. The vast, undisturbed sand dunes make it feel like another planet—minus the giant sandworms.
- Take a private desert safari through the Liwa Oasis, where golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see.
- Visit Qasr Al Watan, a breathtaking presidential palace that looks straight out of science fiction.
Where to Stay: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, an ultra-luxurious retreat that lets you sleep under the desert stars in the heart of the Empty Quarter.
Photos courtesy of: Visit Malta / Warner Bros. Pictures, Rome Tourism Board, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Amanpuri Resort, Vatican Museums Official Site, Abu Dhabi Film Commission, UAE Tourism Board
Follow @alisondeyette and learn more about Alison Deyette and her media training business at AlisonDeyetteMedia or her work on TV at AlisonDeyette.com.
