Spain has emerged as one of the world’s most attractive filming destinations, mainly due to its spectacular and surprising variety of landscapes. When an international film production is looking for a set that can evoke locations as picturesque as an alien desert or a bustling European metropolis, the answer is often to be found in Spain. Choosing the right region is a planning exercise that goes beyond simple aesthetics, involving tax incentives, logistics and local resources. This guide to filming locations will help you understand why choosing a region to film in Spain is the right decision.
Why Spain is a top choice for international productions
Spain offers a winning combination of visual appeal, economic efficiency and professional expertise.
Unmatched scenic diversity
Spain is a miniature continent. In a matter of hours, you can go from the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to tropical beaches, or from medieval architecture to futuristic settings. This diversity of landscapes is a key logistical and budgetary advantage, as it allows you to recreate multiple scenarios in a single country.
Tax incentives and competitive production costs
Attractive tax incentives for filmmaking in Spain, especially in regions such as the Canary Islands (up to 54%) and the Basque Country (up to 60%), make the country very competitive financially. By combining these benefits with the fees of a professional Spanish film crew and a well-planned film production budget, the final cost is significantly optimised.
Proven track record with international films and series
Experience counts. The Spanish industry has a proven track record thanks to its collaboration with high-level productions, from Game of Thrones and Star Wars to major Hollywood franchises, guaranteeing professionalism and efficiency.
Best regions to film in Spain
While every autonomous community offers cinematic gems, some regions have established themselves as internationally renowned film sets.
- Andalusia: Notable for its versatility, offering famous filming locations such as the Tabernas Desert (Almería), iconic for westerns and science fiction, and historical gems such as the Reales Alcázares in Seville and the Alhambra in Granada.
- Canary Islands: The archipelago has become a filming hub thanks to its spectacular volcanic landscapes (such as Mount Teide in Tenerife) and unbeatable tax incentives.
- Navarre: It offers remarkable contrasts, from the semi-desert and lunar landscapes of the Bardenas Reales (used in Game of Thrones) to the dense, humid forests of the Baztán Valley.
- Madrid: Spain’s main production and logistics centre. It offers immense urban diversity, including iconic buildings and proximity to rural locations to recreate any environment.
- Catalonia: Barcelona is an iconic city, famous for its unique architecture, but it also boasts medieval gems such as the old town of Girona.
Types of filming locations in Spain
Spain’s great asset is its ability to replicate almost any landscape in the world.
Desert film locations
Spain is home to the Tabernas Desert in Almería, considered the only true desert in Europe. This arid landscape has been the perfect backdrop for countless westerns (such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly) and science fiction productions seeking a dry, otherworldly atmosphere. Desert film locations also include the Bardenas Reales in Navarre, with its extraordinary geological formations.
Mountain film locations
The Spanish landscape is dotted with imposing mountain ranges. The Pyrenees (in Aragon and Catalonia) offer alpine peaks and lush forests (such as the Hayedo de Otzarreta in Bizkaia). The Cantabrian Mountains and the Central System, with the Sierra de Guadarrama near Madrid, offer accessible high mountain landscapes. For snow and the highest landscape on the peninsula, Sierra Nevada in Andalusia is the ideal choice.
Coastal filming locations
If there is one thing Spain can boast about, it is its coastline. The beaches of Cádiz are a real sight to behold and have been used in many films. One example is La Caleta, the backdrop for 007: Die Another Day. At the northern end, the rocky coastline of the Basque Country stands out (San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the ‘Dragonstone’ in Game of Thrones).
Urban filming locations
Cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia offer urban diversity for any script. Madrid is the most versatile set, with grand avenues, historic buildings, and modern architecture. Barcelona is famous for its unique aesthetic and dynamism (as in Vicky Cristina Barcelona). Meanwhile, the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is perfect for futuristic settings (used in Westworld and Andor).
Historic film locations
Spain is a treasure trove of living history. Cities such as Segovia, with its Alcázar and medieval architecture, or the old town of Gerona, are exceptionally well preserved. The Reales Alcázares in Seville are an example of impressive Arabic architecture. These places provide an authentic backdrop for any period film.
How to choose the right region for your production
Choosing the ideal region for filming should be an informed and strategic process.
- Adapt the landscapes to your story: The most obvious criterion is to find the perfect visual look. Use this film location guide to map your needs against what the region has to offer.
- Considerations regarding seasonality and climate: Research the climate during the time of your shoot. For example, if you are looking for sunshine, southern Spain or the Canary Islands are safer options than the north.
- Local crew, infrastructure and production services: Assess the availability of production professionals and filming equipment rental suppliers in the region. Large cities such as Madrid and Barcelona offer the highest concentration of services, but other regions may offer very competitive solutions.
- Permits and regional film offices: The efficiency of obtaining permits varies. Consult with the Spain Film Commission and regional offices, as they will assist you in managing shoots in their respective jurisdictions.
- Choosing the ideal region for filming should be an informed and strategic process.
Why choose Spain for your next shoot
Choosing Spain is a decision endorsed by global industry.
Trusted networks of production companies and line producers
Puedes confiar en las compañías de servicios de producción españolas para gestionar todos los aspectos logísticos. Por ejemplo, te resultarán de gran utilidad para la contratación de un Line Producer o Unit Production Manager (UPM), la gestión del seguro, el transporte y el alojamiento.
You can rely on Spanish production service companies to manage all logistical aspects. For example, they will be extremely useful when it comes to hiring a Line Producer or Unit Production Manager (UPM), managing insurance, transport and accommodation.
Proven experience with major international productions
The experience and professionalism of the sector have been put to the test by the most demanding international production companies. The calibre of the technical teams, the technology available and the experience of Spanish directors of photography ensure a top-quality result for your project. Spain is a reliable partner, ready to bring your vision to the screen.
