If you’re visiting Malta and feel like you’ve seen it before… you probably have. This small Mediterranean island has starred in some of the biggest movies and TV shows in the world, doubling as ancient cities, fantasy kingdoms, and even biblical lands. For tourists, that’s half the fun; you’re not just sightseeing; you’re walking onto real film sets.
Here’s a fun, tourist-friendly guide to famous movies and TV shows filmed in Malta, plus the exact locations you can visit to relive those iconic scenes.
Why Hollywood Loves Filming in Malta
Malta is a filmmaker’s dream:
- 300+ days of sunshine
- Historic cities that look ancient without CGI
- Dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and medieval streets
- One of the world’s oldest film studios, Malta Film Studios
That’s why Malta has been a filming hotspot since the 1950s and counting.
Game of Thrones – Walk Through King’s Landing
One of the most famous TV shows ever, Game of Thrones, filmed much of Season 1 in Malta.
Where to Go
- Mdina – The Silent City became King’s Landing
- Fort Ricasoli – Red Keep exterior scenes
- Azure Window – Dothraki wedding location (collapsed in 2017)
Tip: Mdina is especially magical at night when crowds thin out.
Gladiator – Enter Ancient Rome
Ridley Scott’s epic Gladiator used Malta to recreate Ancient Rome.
Where to Go
- Fort Ricasoli – Massive Roman sets were built here
- Malta Film Studios – Water tank scenes
Fun fact: Parts of Rome were built full-scale right on the fort grounds.
Troy – Ancient Legends by the Sea
The movie Troy, starring Brad Pitt, used Malta’s raw landscapes.
Where to Go
- Mellieħa – Trojan battle scenes
- Fort Ricasoli – City of Troy set
Bonus: Mellieħa also has some of Malta’s best sandy beaches.
Jurassic World: Dominion – Dinosaurs in the Med
Yes, dinosaurs came to Malta in Jurassic World Dominion.
Where to Go
- Valletta – High-speed chase scenes
- Birgu – Narrow streets and waterfront shots
Seeing modern Valletta mixed with blockbuster action is surreal and awesome.
The Crown & Napoleon – Malta as Europe
Malta often doubles for historic Europe in period dramas.
What Was Filmed
- The Crown – 1950s Commonwealth scenes
- Napoleon – Grand European architecture
Where to Go
- Mdina
- Valletta
These cities feel like stepping straight into another century.
Must-Visit Film Locations Map
| Location | Famous For |
|---|---|
| Mdina | Game of Thrones, The Crown |
| Fort Ricasoli | Gladiator, Troy, GOT |
| Valletta | Jurassic World, Napoleon |
| Mellieħa | Troy battle scenes |
| Gozo | Fantasy & epic landscapes |
Why Film Tourism in Malta Is Perfect for Visitors
- Locations are close together (easy day trips)
- Most sites are free or low-cost
- You get history and cinema in one experience
- Amazing photo opportunities everywhere
If you love movies, Malta feels like a living film museum — but with beaches, food, and sunshine.
Final Scene: Add Malta to Your Watchlist & Travel List
Whether you’re a fan of epic battles, royal dramas, or fantasy worlds, Malta delivers blockbuster magic in real life. The next time you watch Game of Thrones, Gladiator, or Jurassic World, you’ll know exactly where to stand for that perfect shot.
