Hollywood film sets and global TV series have made Andalusia a renowned filming destination

Film tourism has found fertile ground in Andalusia, where deserts, palaces, historic squares, and volcanic beaches transform into captivating backdrops for international productions. This trend has been attracting both filmmakers and travelers eager to explore the iconic locations where unforgettable scenes from sagas such as Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Game of Thrones, and The NeverEnding Story were filmed, creating a unique tourist resource that blends cultural heritage, local identity, and international appeal. For decades, Andalusia has served as a natural film set for the movie industry. Since the 1960s, welcoming such iconic films as Lawrence of Arabia and Cleopatra, the region has starred in blockbuster productions that have shaped audiovisual history. In recent years, its varied landscapes and versatility to adapt to various genres have cemented its status in film tourism. Iconic filming locations One of the most recognizable locations is the Tabernas Desert, near the city of Almería, famed as Europe’s only true desert and a classic backdrop for westerns and adventure films. In Seville, the Plaza de España was transformed into Naboo for the shooting of the feature film Star Wars: Episode II –Attack of the Clones, while the Royal Alcázar served as the setting for Dorne in the Game of Thrones series. Other notable filming sites include the Riotinto Mines in Huelva and the Almodóvar del Río Castle near Córdoba.

The external gardens of the Royal Alcázar of Seville provided the setting for the Dorne region in the acclaimed TV series Game of Thrones © Shutterstock

Television has also boosted the region’s global recognition. Game of Thrones firmly established Andalusia on the global map with scenes filmed in Osuna, Córdoba, and Seville, drawing thousands in of fans. More recently, Warrior Nun selected locations including Ronda, Antequera, and Marbella, highlighting the region’s appeal as a backdrop for international film and television productions. Tourist routes and opportunities These film productions have inspired tourist routes that invite visitors to explore the various locations and uncover fascinating stories about the film crews. Mónsul Beach near Almería is a prime example: as the setting for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, it has become a must-see for any cinema enthusiast. Similar initiatives have been developed in Seville, where routes include the rice fields of Isla Mayor, featured prominently in Marshland. With every new production, the region enhances its reputation as a premier film destination, proving that its locations tell stories not only on the silver screen but also through the experiences of all those that come to visit. Location Andalusia is situated in southern Spain, sharing borders with Portugal, Castile-La Mancha, Extremadura, Murcia, and the Mediterranean Sea. The region is connected by the A-4, A-7, and A-92 motorways, with airports in Seville, Málaga, Granada, Almería, and Jerez. It also boasts ports in Cádiz, Algeciras, and Málaga, alongside a high-speed rail network (AVE).