Film-Fan Travel: Star Wars Filming Locations, Upcoming Projects and What to Skip

Film-Fan Travel Hook: Cut planning time — see the real Star Wars without the tourist traps

If you love Star Wars but hate chasing half-true tips across ten blogs, this guide is built for you. I map the film-verified Star Wars filming locations you should visit, explain how the new Filoni-era projects are already reshaping media tourism in 2026, and flag the movie sets to skip so your trip is cinematic — not a disappointment.

Top-level summary — what to know first (2026 update)

The Dave Filoni transition at Lucasfilm in early 2026 (Kathleen Kennedy stepped down) has already generated headlines and a fresh creative push — including an announced Mandalorian and Grogu film — that will change where and how fans travel. Expect more cross-platform storytelling, seasonal soundstage attractions, and pop-up immersive experiences in the next 12–24 months. But growth means two competing trends: more access to curated set-based tours, and a wave of overhyped, sometimes unsustainable, “Star Wars” tourism offers. Below I give practical routes, logistics, what’s worth your time, and where to save your money.

Quick takeaways

• Must-visits: Tunisia (Tatooine), Skellig Michael (Ahch-To), Redwood forests (Endor), Finse, Norway (Hoth), Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert (Jakku).
• Worth planning for 2026–27: Pilgrimages to smartly curated studio exhibits and Filoni-era pop-ups — book months ahead for limited-run immersive experiences and expect short windows.
• Skip or rethink: Overly pricey guided “set tours” that are unofficial, fragile on-the-ground remakes, and heavily commercialized theme-park clones that deliver less to devoted fans.

Why 2026 matters for Star Wars travel

Media tourism is evolving fast. Since late 2024 and especially through 2025, studios have doubled down on transmedia experiences — modular content that appears on screen, in games, in comics, and at real locations. The move of Dave Filoni into a leading Lucasfilm creative role in early 2026 signals more connected storytelling across shows and films. That typically means two things for travel:

• More short-run, high-demand immersive exhibits and set recreations tied to new releases.
• Greater emphasis on soundstage tourism and authenticated studio visits rather than only chasing remote on-location spots.

Journalists and industry watchers raised warnings about the new slate’s potential quality and fan reaction in January 2026. As one trade writer put it, the announced projects “raise a lot of red flags” for fans hoping for quality-driven pilgrimages — meaning, don’t book solely on hype. Use this guide to make decisions based on permanence, access, and authenticity.

Map of classic filming spots — what to see and how

Below are locations that actually appear in the films and are accessible to travelers. Each entry includes the best time to visit, local logistics, and the true fan payoff.

Tunisia (Tatooine) — Matmata, Chott el Jerid, Ong Jemel

Why go: The original trilogy’s Tatooine exteriors were filmed across southern Tunisia. You can stand where Luke, Obi-Wan, and the Tusken Raiders walked.

• Top spots: Matmata (troglodyte dwellings), the Chott el Jerid salt flats, Ksar Hadada, and the Ong Jemel rock formations near Nefta.
• Best time: October–April (cooler, less dusty).
• Access & logistics: Fly into Tunis, connect to Tozeur (domestic flight or 7–9 hour drive). Hire a local guide from Tozeur for safe desert navigation and to gain access to less-advertised spots.
• Fan payoff: High — many original set pieces remain and local guides can point out filming angles used for the movies.
• Note: Expect basic infrastructure. Respect private property and local regulations.

Skellig Michael, Ireland — Ahch-To

Why go: The vertiginous island where Luke hides is a UNESCO World Heritage site and emotionally powerful in person.

• Best time: Late May–September for calmer seas and legal access windows.
• Access & logistics: Day boats depart from Portmagee; weather cancellations are common. Book well in advance and expect strict landing caps and conservation fees.
• Fan payoff: Moderate-high — the location is stunning, but access is limited and heavily regulated to protect the site.
• Warning: Don’t expect large fan gatherings — conservation authorities actively limit groups.

Redwood National and State Parks, California — Endor

Why go: The towering sequoias that stand in for Endor are a classic US-based pilgrimage with excellent visitor infrastructure.

• Best time: Year-round (mild summers are best).
• Access & logistics: Drive from San Francisco (5–6 hours) or fly to Arcata/Eureka. Trails near Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park are prime photo spots.
• Fan payoff: High. The experience is cinematic and family-friendly with great hiking, bike rentals, and ranger programs.

Finse, Norway — Hoth

Why go: The icy plateau used for Empire Strikes Back’s Hoth scenes is striking in winter/spring.

• Best time: December–April for genuine snowfields. Train access year-round to Finse.
• Access & logistics: Finse is reachable by the Bergen Line train; there’s no car access. Bring cold-weather gear and consider guided glacier treks.
• Fan payoff: Moderate — spectacular landscapes but remote, so combine with other Norwegian itineraries.

Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi — Jakku (The Force Awakens)

Why go: The sand dunes used in newer-era films are accessible and have upscale desert camps.

• Best time: November–March (avoid extreme heat).
• Access & logistics: Day tours from Abu Dhabi or book a Liwa overnight desert camp. Many operators can add guided photography sessions timed for golden hours.
• Fan payoff: High for cinematic desert shots and comfortable logistics compared with raw desert locations.

Studio tours, theme parks and soundstage experiences

Not all film-fan travel is about remote landscapes. In 2026, studio-based experiences are where Lucasfilm and partners are focused — and where you’ll get controlled, high-value access.

Must-consider studio/theme options

• Disney Parks: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Anaheim & Orlando) — immersive, highly themed and perfect for families. Expect crowds and premium pricing; go early, use Genie+/Lightning Lane equivalents, and book dining experiences in advance.
• Elstree & Pinewood (UK) — many Lucasfilm sequences used UK soundstages. While public tours are intermittent, monitor special exhibition windows and film-festival tie-ins for access.
• Special exhibitions & ILM/props showcases — traveling exhibits are especially common in 2026. These are often limited-run and ticketed well in advance. See also my notes on showroom-style pop-up events and micro-exhibitions when planning for ticketed showcases.

Practical tips for studio visits

• Buy tickets early. Filoni-era pop-ups tied to new releases will sell out fast.
• Expect heavy IP control: no drone filming, no touching props unless expressly invited.
• Check for authenticity: prefer exhibitions curated with Lucasfilm or ILM endorsement; unofficial replicas can be underwhelming.

The Filoni-era effect on film tourism — what to expect

Dave Filoni’s promotion has prompted a strategy shift toward serialized, character-centered storytelling that travels well. Here’s how that affects trip planning in 2026 and beyond:

• More cross-pollination: Expect character arcs to cross between TV and film with shared locations — studios will exploit this with limited-run, location-based experiences.
• Seasonal, ticketed pilgrimages: Studios and local DMOs will create short seasonal windows to reduce overtourism and increase ticket revenue. Book months in advance.
• Local economic benefits & regulations: Communities where filming occurs will increasingly require permits and tourist taxes to manage influxes. That’s good for sustainability, but adds cost.
• Quality/quantity tension: As some critics predicted in early 2026, a faster slate risks mixed quality — meaning fan interest may spike around launches but fade faster unless experiences are high-quality.

“The Filoni-era slate is accelerating production but raises questions about long-term fan value.” — industry reaction, January 2026.

Film fan itinerary examples — short, medium and long options

Below are modular itineraries you can stitch together depending on time and budget. Each is optimized for photography, authenticity, and minimal wasted travel time.

3-day weekend: California & Anaheim quick hit

1. Day 1: Arrive in Los Angeles. Evening at Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge for rides and dinner reservations.
2. Day 2: Drive north to Redwood National and State Parks (early flight to Arcata/Eureka). Hike the groves and photograph Endor-esque light through the trees.
3. Day 3: Return to LA — museum or props exhibit if available, then fly out.

7-day classic pilgrimage: Tunisia + UK studio stop

1. Days 1–2: Fly to Tunis, transfer to Tozeur. Stay in Tozeur or Nefta.
2. Day 3: Full-day guided Tatooine circuit — Matmata, Chott el Jerid, Ong Jemel.
3. Day 4: Cultural day in historic Medina, onward to London.
4. Day 5: London — special exhibition or arranged visit to Elstree/Pinewood (book months ahead).
5. Day 6: Day trip to Star Wars-adjacent sites (studio exhibitions, props museums) and local film-tour events.
6. Day 7: Depart from London.

14-day deep dive: Global fan tour

1. Days 1–4: Tunisia Tatooine circuit, including overnight desert camp.
2. Days 5–8: UK — Pinewood/Elstree exhibits, London-based props events, and film-fan panels if scheduled.
3. Days 9–11: Ireland — Skellig Michael (weather permitting) and regional tours.
4. Days 12–14: Norway Finse for Hoth, then back through Oslo for museum days and departures.

What to skip: overhyped, overpriced or fragile locations

Not every Star Wars-branded tour is worth it. Here’s a short “do-not-book” list with reasons.

• Unofficial replica “sets” that charge premium entry: Many private builds are not close to the originals and are maintained poorly. They make for mediocre photos and high disappointment.
• Skellig Michael day trips without planning: If you can’t secure an official landing, don’t go — boat-only tours that don’t land can still be expensive and underwhelming in rough seas.
• Pop-up tours timed to hype alone: In 2026 we’ll see rapid pop-up attractions tied to Filoni-era releases. Research who runs them (Lucasfilm endorsement matters). If it’s an unendorsed private operator, think twice.
• Packaged ‘Star Wars’ desert safaris without local permits: These can put local communities at risk and may be shut down mid-trip.
• Expecting Skywalker Ranch access: It’s not open to the public. Tours claiming inside access are almost always false.

Sustainable, local-first film tourism — tips for responsible fans

Two 2026 travel trends are especially relevant: climate-conscious travel and community-first tourism. Fans should:

• Choose local guides and small operators who share revenue with communities; see thinking on micro-event economics and neighborhood pop-ups for community-first models.
• Respect protected sites and UNESCO rules (e.g., Skellig Michael landing caps).
• Offset long-haul flights if you’re doing a multi-continent pilgrimage; consider microcation-style itineraries that cluster locations.
• Follow local photography and drone rules — many filming sites are privately owned or in protected parks.

Money and timing — booking smart in 2026

Here are practical booking tips to keep your trip efficient and budget-savvy.

• Book any studio or exhibition tickets as soon as new Filoni-era release windows are announced. High-demand pop-ups sell out in weeks.
• For remote locations (Tunisia, Skellig, Finse), book local transport and guides 2–3 months ahead in peak season.
• Expect surge pricing around release dates and fan events like Star Wars Celebration; if you travel off-peak you’ll save and avoid crowds.
• Use local tourism boards to verify official tours — they’ll often list licensed operators and warn against scams.

Tech and tricks — use these on the road

• Download an offline map and label filming coordinates. Many locations are in remote areas with limited connectivity.
• Use AR/experience apps endorsed by Lucasfilm when available — 2026 sees a rise in AR-enhanced site tours that overlay film scenes on real landscapes.
• Bring a zoom lens and tripod for low-light island shots (Skellig Michael sunrise/sunset lighting is dramatic but brief).

Final assessment: Is Star Wars travel worth it in 2026?

Yes — with caveats. If you pursue well-documented, authentic filming locations and verified studio experiences, a Star Wars pilgrimage can be deeply rewarding. The Filoni-era slate promises fresh content and new tourism models, but also more temporary attractions that may disappoint if you chase hype. Use this guide to prioritize permanence and authenticity over flash.

Actionable checklist before you leave

• Confirm Lucasfilm endorsement for any studio/set exhibition you plan to visit.
• Book boat or island landings (Skellig) at least 3 months ahead in peak season.
• Hire local guides for Tunisia and Finse to handle safety and access permissions.
• Pack layered clothing and camera gear for wide dynamic ranges — deserts at dawn and icy plateaus at dusk demand it.
• Plan for sustainability — choose operators that contribute to local conservation or community funds.

Want a ready-made fan itinerary?

If this is the kind of trip you want but you’d rather not DIY, I put together modular, printable itineraries for 3-, 7- and 14-day pilgrimages with verified operator contacts and booking checklists. They’re updated as Filoni-era pop-ups are announced in 2026.

Start planning now: Download the itinerary pack, sign up for my live updates on Filoni-era releases and pop-up exhibits, and join a vetted group tour if you prefer a low-hassle trip. The next wave of curated Star Wars travel is arriving fast — book thoughtfully, travel responsibly, and may the Force be with your camera.

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