WHEN you think Star Wars, you think of a galaxy far, far away. In reality, the planets were filmed right here on Earth.
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Here is a look at the iconic set locations that you can actually visit without needing a Millennium Falcon.
Cheapflights.com.au has put together some travel suggestions especially for Star Wars fans. You can step into Queen Amidala’s Palace, walk in the footsteps of the Ewoks or even have a sleepover at Luke Skywalker’s house.
1. Naboo: Queen Amidala's Palace – Naples, Italy
Some of the most incredible interior scenes in the saga take place in The Reggia di Caserta, one of the largest 18th century buildings in the world. With stunning gardens and a majestic interior, the palace is well worth a visit.
2. Hoth – Hardangerjøkulen Glacier, Finse, Norway
Norway was an obvious choice for the remote, icy planet of Hoth. The site featured one of the series' most epic battle scenes. Although not quite as intergalactic as the planet of Hoth, the snowbound landscapes do offer some breathtaking views and a pretty impressive 16 kilometre ice sheet.
3. Alderaan – Grindelwald, Switzerland
Planet Alderaan, home to Princess Leia, occupies a special place in the Star Wars mythology. The beautiful mountain range of Grindelwald is an amazing place to visit, especially in winter. Grindelwald is a Swiss ski resort that sits high in the Alps, 1000m above sea level - it's a stunning place to ski, hike or relax in an alpine hut.
4. Kashyyyk: The Wookiee homeland – Phang Nga Bay, Thailand
The famous limestone peaks of Phang Nga Bay in Southern Thailand served as the Wookiee kingdom of Kashyyyk. The luscious greens and endless blue water make the perfect setting for a planet that only has one season. You’ll recognise this location in the aerial battle that went down in Revenge of the Sith.
5. Naboo – Lake Como, Italy
In Attack of the Clones, Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala go into hiding at a jaw-droppingly beautiful location in the planet of Naboo. In real life this lakeside retreat on Italy’s Lake Como is a popular choice for a destination wedding. You’ll be sure to recognise the balcony where Anakin and Padme kissed.
6. Tatooine – Death Valley, California
Although a large portion of Tatooine scenes were filmed in Tunisia, George Lucas and the unit team grabbed some extra shots in Death Valley. Remember the scene when Obi-Wan Kenobi meets Luke Skywalker, C-3PO and R2-D2 for the first time? Yep, that’s here.
7. Yavin – Tikal, Guatemala
"We are approaching the planet Yavin...". Star Wars fans will know the Guatemalan site of Tikal better as Yavin. In real life, the towers at the Massassi Outpost belong to the Ancient Mayan Civilisation of Tikal, in the film they are the main base for the Rebellion and were almost destroyed by the first Death Star.
8. Endor – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California
The home of the furry Ewoks was filmed among California’s giant redwoods. The forest offers over 32 kilometres of hiking and nature trails, which will leave you with the feeling that you just stepped onto the moon of Endor. The two locations still accessible to the public are the Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, a fantastic woodland adventure for the intrepid Star Wars fan.
9. Jakku – Abu Dhabi, UAE
In the new film, you’ll see snippets of a sandy landscape on the planet Jakku. Director J.J. Abrams chose the sands of the United Arab Emirates to recreate this Tatooine-like desert planet.
