The Czech Republic aims to capitalize on the popularity of film and television by attracting tourists to follow in the footsteps of movie stars. Czech Tourism Agency (CzechTourism) and Czech Film Commission have joined efforts to promote the film-friendly destinations both known and lesser-known.
The cooperation between the organizations was formalized with a memorandum of understanding, according to which they will develop film tourism products and promote film and TV-related experiences.
The signatories hope that the joint effort will help strengthen the image of the Czech Republic as a premium tourist destination and also promote Czech film production.
Growing Impact of Film Tourism
According to CzechTourism, almost half (48%) of domestic tourists visited one or more film and TV-related attractions in the Czech Republic in 2024. Moreover, 9% of Czech Republic visitors attributed their decision to specific film, fairytale, or television series. The most popular destinations are traditional castles and chateaus such as Hluboká nad Vltavou, Bouzov, Červená Lhota, Karlštejn, and the capital’s and Český Krumlov’s historic centers.
Besides being a domestic priority, the Czech Republic has become one of the world’s screen tourism powerhouses. The country ranks among the top 10 in the world in the “Screen Tourism Forecast Index.” The Czech Republic has much to gain from the anticipated influx of film tourists. Notably, it is hoped that the Czech Republic will benefit massively from the filming of the series “Blade Runner 2099.”
A Favorite European Filming Destination
The Czech Republic has long been one of the favorite destinations for filmmakers. The country offers a wide range of natural landscapes, well-preserved historic centers of cities, and modern infrastructure of film studios. Landscapes and architecture familiar to Czechs often become the setting for foreign films, including dramas such as “Casino Royale” and super-modern action pictures like “Spider-Man: Far From Home.” The country has also hosted the filming of some of the most popular series, including “Mission Impossible,” the latest edition of “The Chronicles of Narnia,” “The Gray Man,” and the gothic horror film “Nosferatu.” The Eternals and All Quiet on the Western Front were nominated for the Oscar.
The Czech Republic has become a sought-after location for Indian and Hollywood film production. Recently, in the Czech Republic, the film “Jab Harry Met Sejal” from the Indian film production house was shot, which further increased the popularity of the Czech Republic among Indian tourists. Another Bollywood production, the film “Bang Bang,” was also filmed in the Czech Republic.
Filming is done in the Czech Republic for Martin Scorsese’s film “What Happens at Night,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence. Part of the film was shot in Prague, Úštěk, and Žatec. The series “Foundation,” “The Age of Innocence,” and the latest Resident Evil were filmed.
Economic Benefits Beyond Tourism
Apart from promoting, the film commission noted that such projects have a significant economic impact. About 60% of the money from foreign production houses is reinvested into the local economy through the hospitality industry, catering, crafts, transport, and construction. The Czech Republic wants to actively develop its film tourism and promote it both in the domestic and foreign markets. CzechTourism and Czech Film Commission hope that thanks to the efforts of both organizations, tourists will be able to experience the magic of the film world and discover amazing places in the Czech Republic.
