Christopher Nolan’s latest epic, The Odyssey, has not only smashed box-office records but is also prompting audiences to plan travel around the film’s real-world locations. After four weekends in release the film has become Nolan’s top earner globally, bringing in $1.1 billion, and observers say that has translated into a wave of curiosity — and bookings — for the places on screen.
Film success driving interest in places on screen
Filming for The Odyssey used dramatic landscapes and historic sites across several countries, with scenes shot in Greece, Italy, Morocco, Scotland and Iceland. Many sequences recreate ancient settings — including the legendary city of Troy, Odysseus’ homeland of Ithaca and the cave where he meets the Cyclops — and viewers are now searching for a chance to see those locations in person.
Data compiled by the learning app Nibble and reported by Travel + Leisure shows a remarkable spike in online searches after the film’s mid‑July release: interest in travel to Troy rose by 3,421%, while searches for “flights to Troy” jumped by 966%. Travel + Leisure noted that searches asking whether Troy is a real place also surged, reflecting curiosity about the archaeological and cultural realities behind the myth.
“suggesting that many viewers left the theater wondering whether Homer’s legendary city is somewhere they can actually visit,” Travel + Leisure said.
Where the film was shot — and what visitors might expect
The film’s decision to favour practical locations has offered audiences a mix of ancient ruins, rugged coastlines and striking island landscapes. For travellers thinking about following the film trail, these are some of the main places associated with the production:
- Troy (Turkey) — the legendary city recreated in the film and centre of renewed online interest.
- Ithaca (Greece) — represented in the movie as the home of Odysseus, drawing attention to Greek island travel.
- Voidokilia Beach (Greece) — one of the scenic Peloponnese coastlines used on location.
- Scotland and Iceland — chosen for their dramatic atmospheres and landscapes.
- Morocco and Italy — used for a variety of historical or atmospheric settings.
Those spots vary widely in accessibility, seasonal weather and visitor infrastructure. Some archaeological sites operate visitor centres and guided tours, while others are part of protected landscapes with limited facilities. Travellers should check the latest opening hours, entry rules and any advance reservation requirements before planning a trip.
| Filming location | Country | Film role |
|---|---|---|
| Troy | Turkey | Ancient city recreated on screen |
| Ithaca | Greece | Odysseus’ homeland |
| Voidokilia Beach | Greece | Coastal scenery |
| Scotland / Iceland | Scotland / Iceland | Rugged landscapes and atmospherics |
| Morocco / Italy | Morocco / Italy | Various period and landscape settings |
What this means for travellers and the travel industry
Film‑driven tourism can be a boon for local economies, but it also brings challenges: sudden spikes in visitor numbers may strain small towns and fragile archaeological sites. Travel operators and tourism boards often respond with curated routes, guided tours and practical advice to ensure visits are sustainable and respectful.
For South African travellers considering a film‑inspired trip, a few practical points are worth remembering:
- Check visa and entry requirements for each country well ahead of travel dates.
- Book seasonal flights and accommodation early when a location is newly popular.
- Look for guided tours or local operators who prioritise conservation and community benefits.
Film tourism is part of a broader trend where movies and TV series shape where people want to go. For those inspired by The Odyssey, the film offers more than spectacle — it can be a springboard to explore history, culture and landscape in person, provided visits are planned thoughtfully and responsibly.
