Explore the Filming Locations of Every Star Wars Movie: A Complete Guide

Tatooine – Tunisia and California

Tatooine is one of the most iconic planets in the Star Wars universe, appearing in multiple films. Many of the original scenes were shot in the Tunisian desert, particularly in Matmata and Tataouine (yes, the inspiration for the name!). You can still visit Luke Skywalker’s childhood home, which is now a functioning hotel.

Additional desert scenes were filmed in Death Valley National Park in California, adding another layer of drama to the landscape.

Hoth – Norway

The icy planet of Hoth, featured in The Empire Strikes Back, was filmed on the Hardangerjøkulen Glacier in Finse, Norway. This remote, snow-covered region offered the perfect backdrop for the Rebel Alliance’s Echo Base. Adventurous fans can hike or ski the area for a true galactic experience.

Endor – California, USA

The lush forest moon of Endor, home to the Ewoks, was brought to life in Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California. Towering ancient trees provided the perfect alien landscape, and many trails still resemble the set of Return of the Jedi.

Naboo – Italy and Spain

Naboo’s regal beauty in The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones was filmed in several historic European locations. The grand Theed Palace scenes were shot in Palace of Caserta, Italy, while Lake Como provided the dreamy backdrop for Anakin and Padmé’s romantic retreat. Parts of Naboo’s outdoor sequences were also filmed in Plaza de España in Seville, Spain.

Jakku – Abu Dhabi, UAE

Jakku, the harsh desert home of Rey, was filmed in the Rub' al Khali desert near Abu Dhabi. The towering sand dunes and vast emptiness made for a truly alien and cinematic location for The Force Awakens.

Ahch-To – Ireland

Rey finds Luke Skywalker hiding on the remote island of Ahch-To in The Last Jedi, which was filmed on Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast of Ireland. With its steep cliffs and ancient monastic structures, it feels like a place untouched by time.

Crait – Bolivia

The striking red-and-white salt plains of Crait in The Last Jedi were filmed at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia—the world’s largest salt flat. The unique contrast of white salt and red mineral dust created one of the most visually arresting battle scenes in the franchise.

Scarif – Maldives

The tropical paradise-turned-battle zone of Scarif from Rogue One was shot in the Laamu Atoll of the Maldives. Crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches stood in stark contrast to the war raging above—one of the most beautiful battlefields in Star Wars.

Alderaan, Mustafar, and Other CGI-Enhanced Worlds

While many locations were enhanced with CGI or created entirely with digital effects, filmmakers often used real landscapes as reference points, grounding even the most fantastical planets in reality. Iceland, Icelandic volcanoes, and Canary Islands terrain helped inspire planets like Mustafar and Jedha.

Travel the Galaxy Without Leaving Earth

The Star Wars movie locations are not just cinematic marvels—they’re real, breathtaking destinations you can visit. Whether you're chasing sunsets on Tatooine or climbing the steps of Ahch-To, exploring these sites is the ultimate pilgrimage for fans of the saga. May the travel force be with you!