Film and television can be huge drawcards for attracting tourism to travel destinations; The Lord of the Rings for New Zealand, Tiffany’s Manhattan flagship store from Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider for Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom in Cambodia.
If you’re fulfilling the lifelong dream of a white Christmas and are planning on spending the holidays in Europe, there are a number of festive movies to watch that showcase the region and culture and will have you feeling the holiday cheer. Here are some of our favourites:
The Holiday (2006) – England
While half of the film is set in California, the other half of this movie is set in quaint Surrey, England. Showcasing the very best of cosy British cottages and pubs during the holiday season, this movie will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.
Love Actually (2003) – England, France, Portugal
This cult classic, set in London, perfectly captures the atmosphere of the city in the festive season. Bonus points too, as there are stories set in France and Portugal too!
Joyeux Noel (2005) – France
Based on the true events of the Christmas Truce in 1914, Joyeux Noel covers the French, Scottish and German perspectives of the war and truce, and has dialogues in all three languages.
A Christmas Carol (1951) – England
While there have been a number of adaptations of Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic, this rendition remains a standout, showcasing the well known Christmas Eve ordeal of Scrooge and his visits from the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.
The Shop Around the Corner (1940) – Hungary
While it is an American film, the story is set in Budapest and tells the love story between two employers at a leather goods shop in Hungary during the lead up to Christmas.
Planning a trip to Britain and Ireland? Check out the 6 movies you need to watch before you go here!
