Some cities feel like permanent film sets. Their skylines, street grids and landmarks have appeared in hundreds of movies, giving viewers a sense of déjà vu the first time they visit. For dedicated location hunters, these cities offer dense layers of cinematic history.
New York City is an obvious starting point. From classic crime sagas to romantic comedies, many genres have used its brownstones, bridges and subway entrances. You can walk from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” to “Spider‑Man” in a single afternoon, spotting familiar corners at every block.
London’s mix of old and new architecture makes it equally flexible. Period dramas, spy thrillers and contemporary stories can all find appropriate backdrops within a few Underground stops of each other. Look for filming around the Thames, in the City, and in smaller mews streets.
Tokyo, meanwhile, turns up in everything from anime to cyberpunk thrillers. Neon signage, narrow alleyways and rooftop views give directors a palette of light and texture that feels instantly recognisable. Many fans visit Shibuya, Shinjuku and smaller neighbourhoods after seeing them on screen.
On Where Was It Filmed you can filter locations by city and discover lesser‑known spots as well as famous landmarks. That way your trip becomes a personal film festival built from your favourite scenes.