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10 Iconic Movie & TV Filming Locations You’ll Stand In on Our Northern Lights Adventure to Iceland!

Updated: Feb 15


Iceland doesn’t just look cinematic — it is cinematic.

Directors come here when they need landscapes that feel ancient, powerful, and otherworldly. Superheroes, secret agents, dragons, explorers, and dreamers have all passed through the very places we visit on our Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights journey.


So if you’ve ever watched a movie and thought, “Where on earth is that?” — chances are, it was Iceland.


Here are the Top 10 movie and TV filming locations INCLUDED IN OUR TRIP IN OCTOBER, with special attention to the waterfalls and landscapes made famous by the biggest films and series in the world.


1. Skógafoss Waterfall – Where Gods, Heroes & Dreamers Walk

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If Iceland had a Hollywood Walk of Fame, Skógafoss would be front and center.

This towering, thunderous waterfall has appeared in:

  • Thor: The Dark World

  • The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

  • Vikings

  • Game of Thrones

It’s wide, powerful, and often crowned with rainbows — the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way. Standing here, you don’t just see the movie magic… you feel it in your chest.


2. Seljalandsfoss – The Walk-Behind Waterfall Hollywood Loves

Few waterfalls on Earth offer what Seljalandsfoss does — the chance to walk behind the falling water.

That’s exactly why filmmakers love it. This waterfall has appeared in:

  • Star Trek: Discovery

  • Multiple international films, commercials, and music videos

It’s ethereal, graceful, and incredibly photogenic — especially when mist and light create a natural halo effect. This one never fails to get a collective “wow” from our group.


3. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – James Bond’s Frozen Playground

Floating icebergs. Glass-blue water. Absolute silence.

Jökulsárlón starred in:

  • Die Another Day

  • A View to a Kill

Yes — you’ll be standing where James Bond once sped across ice. It feels less like Earth and more like another planet, which is exactly why filmmakers can’t stay away.


4. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Iceland’s Most Dramatic Coastline

With volcanic black sand and jagged sea stacks rising from the Atlantic, Reynisfjara feels cinematic even on a quiet day.

This area has been featured in:

  • Game of Thrones

  • Major international films and fashion shoots

It’s raw, moody, and unforgettable — Iceland at its most dramatic.


5. Þingvellir National Park – Where Continents (and Kingdoms) Collide

At Þingvellir National Park, you’re literally standing between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

It also served as a filming location for:

  • Game of Thrones (beyond the Wall)

History, geology, and fantasy all collide here — a powerful stop on our Golden Circle day.


6. Gullfoss – The Golden Waterfall of Epic Scale

Massive. Thundering. Awe-inspiring.

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and a staple of:

  • Nature documentaries

  • Travel films

  • Historical and environmental features

This is one of those places where people stop talking… because words just don’t work.


7. Sólheimajökull Glacier – Hollywood’s Go-To Ice World

Glacier landscapes near Sólheimajökull have been used as stand-ins for alien planets and frozen worlds, including:

  • Interstellar

  • Music videos and adventure films

Ice, ash, and time frozen in motion.


8. Reykjavík – A City That Plays Many Roles

Don’t underestimate the charm of Reykjavík. Its colorful streets and dramatic light have appeared in:

  • Everest

  • Numerous international productions

It’s cozy, cool, and cinematic in its own understated way.


9. Faxaflói Bay – Northern Lights on Film

While not a traditional movie “set,” Faxaflói Bay has been featured in:

  • Nature documentaries

  • Aurora Borealis films and time-lapse projects

When the Northern Lights appear, you’ll understand why filmmakers chase this sky.


10. Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s Most Otherworldly Spa

Milky blue water. Rising steam. Lava fields all around.

Blue Lagoon has appeared in:

  • Hostel: Part II

  • Countless travel and lifestyle features

It feels like a sci-fi set — and the perfect way to end an epic adventure.


Filmed in Iceland!
Filmed in Iceland!

Final Takeaway: You’re Not Just Visiting Iceland —

You’re Stepping Into the Story

This is one of the things we love most about Iceland: You don’t just see it. You recognize it. From superheroes to secret agents, from fantasy worlds to real-life wonders — these landscapes have already captured the world’s imagination. Now it’s your turn to stand in them.


Ready to experience Iceland like never before? Sign up to get the latest updates or reserve your spot on our Fall 2026 Northern Lights Adventure — adventure, iconic film locations, and unforgettable memories await!


 
 
 

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