When our favourite films are set in beautiful locations, this often makes us want to visit them ourselves. Luckily for those who love romantic and historic locations, there are many destinations that you can visit in person, experiencing the joy and wonder that you have seen on the big screen. Here, we look at three of these locations and find out what makes them so special.
1. The Mani Peninsula, Greece
Greece has played host to a variety of romantic films across the decades, but those who are charmed by gentle, realistic romance will recognise the Mani Peninsula from “Before Midnight” in the famous trilogy that began with “Before Sunrise” and “Before Sunset”. The Mani Peninsula is one of the most beautiful parts of the southern Peloponnese on the southern coast of the Greek mainland.
A four-hour drive from Athens Airport, the Mani Peninsula is said to be the home of the ancient Spartans, and amongst the olive groves and gorgeous sunsets, you can see many ruins that show evidence of occupation long past.
The ghost village of Vatheia is the perfect place to experience the strange hush and history of this part of Greece, where locals live alongside ruined buildings. Alternatively, you can head to Cape Matapan, which is steeped in myth and known for being the site of a famous WWII battle.
2. Montmartre, Paris
Photo by Giuseppe Mondì on Unsplash
Featured in popular romantic films such as “Amelie'' and “Moulin Rouge”, Montmartre is a true jewel in the crown of the glittering city of Paris. In the 18th Arrondissement of the city, hop on the Metro and get off at Blanche Station to visit the real-life Moulin Rouge. Or, disembark at Anvers to see the Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre, considered to possess some of the most impressive architecture and art in the city, with sprawling views across Paris.
Of course, there is also true pleasure in simply wandering the cobbled, cafe-lined streets of Montmartre, which feels like a version of Paris that you might only expect to see in movies.
3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Accessing the heart of Edinburgh is easy thanks to its well-served international airport and train links. However you decide to travel, you will soon be nestled in the middle of this thriving modern city that is steeped in history. The filming location of romantic favourites like “One Day” and the classic romantic comedy “Happy Go Lovely” (which used some shots of Princes Street to set the tone), Edinburgh is bursting with must-visit locations like Edinburgh Castle.
On clear days, you can climb Arthur's Seat for incredible views across the cityscape. Challenge yourself and climb up the 104 Scotsman Steps as soon as you arrive, where you'll find yourself surrounded by those unmistakable sandstone buildings.
With so many historic, romantic locations across the world, these are just a few of our favourites to whet your appetite. Will you be heading to one of these well-loved places to feel the magic for yourself?
Please note, this has been a contributed post.