Travel destinations that could be in a Disney movie

Fairy tales beyond the theme park

You don't need to visit a Disney theme park to feel like you're in a fairy tale. Some places boast such stunning beauty that they've even inspired cinematic productions.

Azores Archipelago (Portugal)

The Azores Archipelago is the perfect setting for a Disney movie. The sea, volcanic lagoons, vegetation, hot springs, and even the animals could set the scene for a thrilling adventure.

Photo: Damir Babacic / Unsplash

Mont Saint-Michel (Normandy, France)

Mont Saint-Michel, situated in Normandy, France, is a rocky island that houses a 16th-century Gothic abbey. The monument stands atop the island, surrounded by a medieval town. It is said to have inspired the castle of Princess Rapunzel.

Pena Palace (Sintra, Portugal)

Located at the peak of the Sintra mountain range in Portugal, Pena Palace could very well be the castle of a Disney princess. With its stunning views and vibrant colors, the site is full of charm and mystery.

Alcázar of Segovia (Segovia, Spain)

Dating back to the 12th century, the Alcázar of Segovia is one of the most important medieval castles in the world. A local legend says that this structure inspired the creation of the Evil Queen's castle in the film 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' (1937).

Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

It's also worth mentioning that the city of Rio de Janeiro was the setting for the animated film 'Rio' (2011). For those who have never been to the marvelous city, it's a great opportunity to dive into unforgettable settings like Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer.

Photo: Agustin Diaz Gargiulo / Unsplash

Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic)

The medieval town of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic is exceptionally well-preserved, complete with cobblestone streets and a stunning Gothic-style castle.

Alsace (France)

Steep roofs, abundant colors, and half-timbered buildings make the town of Alsace, France, a place full of personality and charm. Situated along the Rhine River, the location served as inspiration for the hometown of Belle, the princess in the classic 'Beauty and the Beast' (1992).

Photo: Vered Caspi / Unsplash

Cinque Terre (Italy)

The intense turquoise blue of its sea, the nature in all its splendor, and the colorful houses make the Italian Riviera a perfect setting to enjoy and relax. In fact, the place inspired 'Luca,' a Disney and Pixar animation, which showcased all its charms in the fictional town of Portorosso.

Bayou Country (Louisiana, USA)

The region is filled with cypress and tupelo trees, Spanish moss, and murky waters. The beauty of Bayou in Louisiana was chosen to set the scene for the movie 'The Princess and the Frog' (2009).

Hobbiton, New Zealand

Ok, so 'Lord of the Rings,' isn't quite Disney, but Hobbiton in New Zealand and the surrounding area is worthy of a fairy tale.

Bled (Slovenia)

Lake Bled, with its stunning island and surrounding nature, is a spectacle of beauty that conveys a sense of peace and tranquility.

Photo: Neven Krcmarek / Unsplash

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

Another place that gained prominence in cinema is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China. Its rock formations and towering sandstone pillars are pure magic and served as the backdrop for the movie 'Avatar' (2009).

Upolu (Samoa)

The Disney animation 'Moana,' set in Polynesia, includes several references found in the South Pacific. One of them is the oceanic trench, To Sua, in Upolu, Samoa.