Bollywood has long had a love affair with Europe, using its stunning landscapes, grand architecture, and romantic streets as the perfect backdrop for countless films. Whether you’re a die-hard Bollywood fan or just love exploring breathtaking destinations, here’s an itinerary that will take you through some of the most iconic Bollywood shooting locations in Europe.
Budapest: The Bollywood Gateway to Europe
The relationship between Bollywood and Budapest spans over two decades. It all began with Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, where Sanjay Leela Bhansali showcased the city’s Liberty Bridge and Opera House. Since then, movies like Raabta, Harry Met Sejal, and Sultan have cemented Budapest’s place in Bollywood history.
One of the most famous scenes—where Nandini rushes toward Vanraj—was shot in Budapest but was depicted as Italy in the movie. The Chain Bridge is another unmissable spot, where Sushant Singh Rajput and Kriti Sanon took selfies during Raabta. Commercials like the Cadbury 5Star Vacation ad and Ranveer Singh’s Vivo commercial have also been filmed here. After crossing the Chain Bridge, take a stroll along the riverside, just like Nandini and Vanraj in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.
Vienna: The Romantic Bollywood Dream
The capital of Austria, Vienna, is a timeless Bollywood favourite. Films like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya, and Albela have showcased its old-world charm and romantic ambiance.
One of Vienna’s most visually stunning locations is the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where the song Bulleya from Ae Dil Hai Mushkil was shot. This museum is home to legendary artworks, including The Tower of Babel. If you visit during Christmas, Vienna becomes a fairy-tale city with twinkling lights and festive decorations, making it even more magical.
Salzburg: The Musical Heart of Bollywood
Salzburg, famous for its musical heritage, has also played a key role in Bollywood. The song Shano Shano from Yuvraaj was filmed here, while Albela was the first Bollywood movie to feature Salzburg’s scenic beauty.
The Salzburg Cathedral, built in 774 AD, and the Horse Fountain at Residenzplatz are must-visit locations. This fountain, seen in Pyaar Ka Jadu starring Govinda and Aishwarya Rai, is so popular that Salzburg even offers special Bollywood tours that take fans through some of these famous shooting locations in Europe.
Innsbruck: Bollywood in the Alps
Surrounded by the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a paradise for Bollywood filmmakers. The Nordkette Mountain Range, where heroines have danced in chiffon sarees, provided the stunning setting for the opening sequence of Tiger Zinda Hai.
The city’s Old Town, with its 500-year-old architecture, featured in the song Keeda from Action Jackson. Other notable sites include the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace, and Central Square, which was transformed into a Bollywood set for Dil Diyan Gallan from Tiger Zinda Hai. Innsbruck is also a popular choice for ad films, including commercials for Dairy Milk and Milton Tiffin.
Prague: Bollywood’s Architectural Wonderland
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires.” It has provided breathtaking visuals for movies like Rockstar and Harry Met Sejal.
The Prague Castle, one of the largest castles in the world, appeared in Rockstar. Meanwhile, the Charles Bridge became an iconic setting for songs like Hawa Hawa and Aur Ho. A visit to the Old Town, home to the Astronomical Clock and St. Salvator Church, will take you through the exact locations where Rockstar’s chase sequence was filmed.
Munich: A Bollywood Celebrity Hotspot
Though not a major Bollywood shooting destination, Munich is a preferred vacation spot for Bollywood celebrities. If you’re an automobile enthusiast, don’t miss the BMW World, shaped like four cylinders, which is a must-visit for car lovers.
Relive Bollywood Magic in Europe
From the historic streets of Vienna to the breathtaking mountains of Innsbruck, these destinations have shaped some of Bollywood’s most memorable moments. Whether you want to recreate your favourite movie scenes or explore Bollywood shooting in Europe, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of film nostalgia and travel adventure.
Pack your bags, strike a pose, and embark on a journey through these cinematic wonders. Europe is waiting to roll out the red carpet for you!
