I’ve always been drawn to Ireland — mostly because so many of the movies and shows I love were filmed there. When I looked closer, I noticed a pattern: they were mostly romantic, historical, or fantasy films. And let’s be honest — those genres need special locations. Places with magic, atmosphere, and character.
Ireland’s natural beauty, traditional pubs, live music, and famously friendly people had me wondering: is all that movie magic real, or just clever editing? After spending one week in Ireland, we can confidently say: it’s all real. The landscapes look like they came straight out of Game of Thrones or Vikings — and in many cases, they actually did.
Discovering Dublin
One of the spots I was most excited to see was the Trinity College Library — specifically the Long Room. It looks exactly like the Jedi Archives in Star Wars and even appears in Harry Potter. With its towering wooden shelves, thousands of old books, and grand staircase, the Long Room felt completely surreal. You can take a guided tour of Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious university.
When it comes to Irish pubs, head straight to Temple Bar, Dublin’s most iconic pub district. The area’s most famous venue — The Temple Bar — gives its name to the entire neighborhood. Almost every pub features live music, ranging from traditional Irish tunes to global hits.
You’ll hear “Molly Malone” everywhere you go — the unofficial anthem of Dublin. Whether you like it or not, it’ll be stuck in your head. Fun fact: many scenes in Far and Away (with Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman), though set in 1900s Boston, were actually filmed in this area.
If you loved the film Once, you’ll recognize many of Dublin’s charming streets and scenes. It’s a perfect movie to understand the soul of the city. Dublin is alive, relaxing, and full of joy.
Ireland’s Famous Filming Locations Beyond Dublin
Wicklow Mountains National Park
This breathtaking park, with its ancient monasteries and rolling hills, attracts thousands of visitors each year. It’s where P.S. I Love You was filmed — specifically the scene where Gerry and Holly meet for the first time.
Gerry, supposedly lost in the park, tells Holly, “You’re already in it,” when she doesn’t realize the entire area is a national park. And while he doesn’t actually say, “Welcome to Ireland, baby,” you get the idea — the place is massive and stunning.
Another famous film shot here? Braveheart. Although it tells the story of Scotland, most of the movie was actually filmed in Ireland. On your way to Glendalough, you’ll pass through many of the locations used in the film.
Cliffs of Moher
In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the dramatic scene where Harry and Dumbledore confront the Horcrux was filmed right here. It’s hard to describe — the cliffs feel like something out of another time.
Yes, it’s a 4-hour drive from Dublin, but completely worth it. When you get there, the scale takes your breath away. On one side, cows graze peacefully. On the other — a sheer drop to the ocean. It feels like life itself: calm and chaos, just a step apart.
The Cliffs of Moher don’t just give you a view. They give you perspective.
The Blarney Stone
This isn’t a movie location (that we know of), but it deserves a mention. In the village of Blarney, thousands of people line up each year to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. The legend says it gives you the gift of eloquence — the power to speak beautifully and persuasively.
While you’re there, visit Blarney Castle, explore Killarney National Park, and stop by the colorful coastal town of Cobh.
Ireland on Screen: Game of Thrones, Star Wars & More
Did you know that the Jedi Archives in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones were inspired by the Long Room at Trinity College in Dublin? It’s true — and the resemblance is striking.
Meanwhile, P.S. I Love You is practically a guided tour of Ireland. You’ll follow the characters through Dublin’s pubs, the Wicklow Mountains, the village of Lacken, and Blessington Lake. Fans of the film will feel like they’re living it all over again.
And of course, Game of Thrones filmed many of its most iconic scenes across Ireland’s epic landscapes. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll find yourself constantly saying, “Wait… I’ve seen this before!”
The Viking Legacy
Ireland was invaded by Vikings around 800 AD, and by 840, Norse settlements appeared all along the coast — including in Dublin. So it’s no surprise that the series Vikings was also filmed here.
Today, the capital still celebrates its Viking history with festivals and cultural events. If you’re a Viking fan, Ireland is calling your name.
Final Thoughts
Ireland truly feels like walking through a movie set — but the best part is, it’s all real. From ancient libraries to rugged cliffs, from cozy pubs to mystical mountain trails, this country has a way of pulling you in.
So pack your bag, open your mind, and maybe, just maybe — kiss the Blarney Stone.
You never know what magic might happen.
