Famous film shooting spots you can visit in Hungary

Hungary, as one of the smallest countries in Europe, had never been particularly famous for its film industry. However, times are changing. Today, film productions from all over the world flock to Hungary for its brilliant film shooting spots.

Hollywood comes to Hungary

Surprisingly, not only local but an increasing number of foreign and Hollywood movies are shot, even if partially, in Hungary. This explains why so many famous international actors and actresses can be spotted regularly in the country. Producers pick Hungary for mainly two reasons: its favourable environmental and financial conditions (namely, the Hungarian tax incentive scheme).

When it comes to famous film shooting spots, two categories can be distinguished:
1. Places where iconic Hungarian flicks were made
2. Locations where scenes from Hollywood blockbusters were shot

Famous film shooting spots

Helló Vidék garnered some of the most famous shooting spots in Hungary. Apart from serving as scenic backdrops on film sets, these amazing places also make great weekend trips for friends and families.

a. Pilisborosjenő: Eclipse of the Crescent Moon was filmed here even though the original story is set in the city of Eger. The main attraction is the copy of the Eger Castle, which was constructed specifically for the film.
b. Keszthely – Festetics Palace: Lake Balaton is a very popular destination in summertime. The balmy waters, the picturesque coast, Europe’s biggest music festivals, the colourful events and the never-ending parties attract tens of thousands of tourists every year. However, if you are looking for some cultural stimulation as well, pay a visit to this charming palace. Among many other iconic classics, Kincsem was shot in this Baroque building.
c. Budapest – ELTE – Botanical Garden: In Hungarian schools, Ferenc Molnár’s masterpiece, The Paul Street boys is a must-read for all students. Its movie adaptation was shot in the well-known Hungarian university’s park. Many may remember that epic scene in which the protagonist falls into the fountain of the botanical garden. The park is open every day to visitors (unless a camera crew is shooting there).

2. Hungary offers countless outdoor and indoor film shooting spots for filmmakers, which include stunning historic buildings and beautiful pristine landscapes.

New York Café Budapest: The café house has catered for poets, writers and artists alike ever since its opening in 1894. Today, they also serve giant motion picture productions. The graceful café house can be spotted as a spectacular backdrop in a number of famous Hollywood movies such as Bel Ami or Red Sparrow.
Etyek – Korda Studio: Etyekwood, as Hungarians like to call it mockingly, is a state-of-the-art film studio that caters to all needs and genres. The studio boasts numerous indoor and outdoor shooting sets. Here, movie enthusiasts can not only visit the places where their favourite flicks were shot, but they can also learn about behind-the-scene secrets. The staff is always happy to show visitors around the studio and reveal some tips and tricks of the industry. Korda Studio served such massive hits as Hellboy II., The Martian, Inferno and Gemini man.