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Where was Mamma Mia Filmed in Greece?
The captivating story of Mamma Mia, set against the backdrop of breath-taking Greek islands, has mesmerised millions worldwide.
If you’re wondering where Mamma Mia was filmed or want to explore the filming locations of this beloved musical, look no further!
This article will guide you through the scenic landscapes and iconic spots where the magic unfolded, and answer questions like “Where was Mamma Mia set?” and “Where did they film Mamma Mia?”
Get ready to embark on a journey through Mamma Mia’s Greece island filming locations.
Mamma Mia Filming Locations:
The filming of Mamma Mia took place on two stunning Greek islands, Skopelos and Skiathos, as well as the small village of Damouchari on the mainland.
The unspoiled natural beauty of these locations made them the perfect setting for the idyllic world of Mamma Mia.
1. Skopelos
Skopelos, one of the Sporades Islands, is often referred to as the Mamma Mia Greece island due to its significance in the movie.
This lush paradise features crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and dense pine forests, all of which were showcased in the film.
Some of the most iconic Mamma Mia filming locations in Skopelos include:
Kastani Beach:
Known for the “Lay All Your Love on Me” and “Does Your Mother Know” scenes.
Agios Ioannis Kastri:
Home to the famous Mamma Mia church and the setting for the wedding scene.
Glisteri Beach:
Where Tanya and Rosie arrived on a speedboat in “Dancing Queen.”
Skopelos Hotels: |
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Skopelos Holidays Hotel & Spa |
Adrina Beach Hotel |
Rigas Hotel Skopelos |
Skopelos Village Hotel |
2. Skiathos
The neighbouring island of Skiathos also contributed to the magical atmosphere of Mamma Mia, with its charming old town and pristine beaches.
The island’s Old Port was the filming location for the harbor scenes, where Sophie sent out the invitations and later welcomed her potential fathers.
Skiathos Hotels |
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Skiathos Palace Hotel |
Skiathos Princess Hotel |
La Piscine Art Hotel |
3. Damouchari
While the Greek islands Mamma Mia was filmed on captured most of the attention, the quaint village of Damouchari in the Pelion region played a significant role as well.
Its picturesque harbor was used for the “Money, Money, Money” scene, and the village also served as a stand-in for the island during some of the movie’s production.
Damouchari Hotels |
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Damouchari Hotel |
Anovolios Boutique Hotel |
Hotel Maistros |
Damouchari Beach Guesthouse |
Songs Filmed at Each Location:
Song Title | Filming Location(s) |
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Honey, Honey | Sophie’s room, Kalokairi Village |
Money, Money, Money | Damouchari, Pelion, Mainland Greece |
Mamma Mia | Kalokairi Village |
Dancing Queen | Glisteri Beach, Skopelos |
Lay All Your Love on Me | Kastani Beach, Skopelos |
Does Your Mother Know | Kastani Beach, Skopelos |
The Winner Takes It All | Clifftop near Agios Ioannis Kastri, Skopelos |
I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do | Agios Ioannis Kastri, Skopelos |
Take a Chance on Me | Glisteri Beach, Skopelos |
Waterloo | Taverna by the sea |
Please note that some scenes may have been filmed in multiple locations or on sets built for the movie.
The table above represents the primary filming locations for each song in Mamma Mia.
Tips for Visiting Mamma Mia Filming Locations
When planning your Mamma Mia Greece island adventure, keep the following tips in mind:
- The best time to visit the Greek islands Mamma Mia was filmed on is between May and September.
- To get to Skopelos and Skiathos, you can either fly or take a ferry from the mainland.
- Renting a car or scooter will give you the freedom to explore the islands
- at your own pace and visit all the Mamma Mia filming locations.
- Guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories and insights about the filming of Mamma Mia.
- Don’t forget to indulge in local Greek cuisine and visit nearby attractions for a well-rounded experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
In this section we answer some frequently asked questions about the Mammia Mia Filming Locations in Greece.
Where was Mamma Mia filmed?
Mamma Mia was filmed primarily on the Greek islands of Skopelos and Skiathos, with additional scenes shot in Damouchari, a village on the mainland.
Where was Mamma Mia set?
Mamma Mia was set on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi, which was brought to life using the picturesque landscapes of Skopelos, Skiathos, and Damouchari.
Which Greek islands are featured in Mamma Mia?
Skopelos and Skiathos are the two primary Greek islands featured in Mamma Mia.
These stunning islands are part of the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea.
What are the key Mamma Mia filming locations in Skopelos?
Some of the most iconic Mamma Mia filming locations in Skopelos include Kastani Beach, Agios Ioannis Kastri (the Mamma Mia church), and Glisteri Beach.
Where were the harbor scenes in Mamma Mia filmed?
The harbor scenes in Mamma Mia were filmed at the Old Port in Skiathos, where Sophie sends out the wedding invitations and welcomes her potential fathers.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
The ideal time to visit the Mamma Mia filming locations in Greece is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the islands and beaches.
How do I get to Skopelos and Skiathos?
To reach Skopelos and Skiathos, you can either fly into the nearby airports or take a ferry from the Greek mainland.
Are there guided tours available for Mamma Mia filming locations?
Yes, there are guided tours available that will take you to the Mamma Mia filming locations in Skopelos, Skiathos, and Damouchari.
These tours often include knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and insights about the making of the movie.
Can I visit the Mamma Mia church in Skopelos?
Yes, you can visit the Agios Ioannis Kastri, also known as the Mamma Mia church, which is located on a rocky hilltop in Skopelos.
Be prepared for a climb, as there are around 100 steps to reach the church.
Is it easy to travel between the Mamma Mia filming locations?
Yes, traveling between the Mamma Mia filming locations is relatively easy.
Ferries and local boats operate between Skopelos and Skiathos, while Damouchari on the mainland can be reached by car or bus from the nearby city of Volos.
What other attractions should I visit near the Mamma Mia filming locations?
Besides the Mamma Mia filming locations, you can explore the picturesque Old Town of Skiathos, visit the Monastery of Evangelistria, enjoy the stunning beaches of Skopelos like Stafilos and Panormos, or hike through the lush landscapes of the Pelion region near Damouchari.
How long should I spend visiting the Mamma Mia filming locations?
7-10 day trip would be ideal for visiting the Mamma Mia filming locations, as it would give you ample time to explore Skopelos, Skiathos, and Damouchari, as well as enjoy the local culture, cuisine, and other nearby attractions.
Are there any special events or festivals related to Mamma Mia in these locations?
Some local businesses and tour operators may organise Mamma Mia-themed events or parties during the tourist season.
It’s worth checking with local guides, hotels, or tour agencies for information about any special events happening during your visit.
Is it possible to rent a car or scooter to explore the Mamma Mia filming locations?
Yes, you can rent a car or scooter on both Skopelos and Skiathos to explore the Mamma Mia filming locations and other attractions at your own pace. Remember to bring your driver’s license and adhere to local traffic rules.
Can I get married at the Mamma Mia church in Skopelos?
Although the Agios Ioannis Kastri (Mamma Mia church) is a popular spot for wedding photos, it is not available for actual wedding ceremonies.
However, there are other beautiful churches and venues on Skopelos and Skiathos where you can plan your dream wedding.
Final Thoughts…
The filming of Mamma Mia brought the magic of Greece’s beautiful islands and mainland to the big screen.
The movie was set on the fictional Mamma Mia island, Kalokairi, but the real-life charm of the Greek islands Mamma Mia was based on Skopelos, Skiathos, and the mainland village of Damouchari.
The Mamma Mia Greece island experience is one that fans of the movie will undoubtedly cherish as they explore the breath-taking landscapes where the film was set.
So, if you’ve ever wondered where Mamma Mia was set, now you know and you can plan your own trip to visit these stunning locations.
From the picturesque beaches to the charming villages and iconic movie scenes, the Greek islands Mamma Mia showcased are waiting for you to come and experience their enchanting beauty.