Star Wars Day is almost upon us, as what began as a political pun has evolved into an annual celebration of the characters and worlds of the Star Wars universe.
From the icy plains of Hoth to the desert landscapes of Tatooine, the franchise's otherworldly scenery has always been a point of fascination. Fortunately, you don't need the Millennium Falcon to visit some of these locations.
But for those seeking Instagram-worthy destinations, what are the most popular Star Wars filming locations to visit?
To determine the most popular filming locations globally, a study by CSDB.gg used a data-driven approach leveraging Instagram's popularity. They identified various filming locations from across the Star Wars movie franchise.
CSDB.gg then tracked the total number of posts shared on Instagram using the most common hashtag associated with each specific location or landmark.
By compiling and comparing these Instagram post counts, CSDB.gg ranked the Star Wars filming locations based on their popularity and visual appeal among Instagram users.
So, what made the list – and where are the two UK locations you can visit over the Early May Bank Holiday?
5. Mount Etna, Italy (Episode III - Revenge of the Sith)
The volcanic slopes of Mount Etna provided the fiery and dangerous landscape of the planet Mustafar during the epic duel between Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi in Revenge of the Sith. | Etna Walk/AFP via Getty Images
6. Reynisfjara, Iceland (Rogue One)
The black sand beaches and basalt columns of Reynisfjara in Iceland offered a dramatic and foreboding look for the planet Eadu in Rogue One, its stark and volcanic landscape reflecting the grim realities of the rebellion. | Getty Images
7. Hardangervidda, Norway (Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back)
The icy and windswept plains of Hardangervidda National Park chillingly portrayed the frozen wasteland of the planet Hoth in The Empire Strikes Back, its stark beauty emphasizing the Rebel Alliance's desperate situation. | NTB Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images
8. Reggia di Caserta, Italy (Episode I - The Phantom Menace, Episode II - Attack of the Clones)
The opulent Royal Palace of Caserta served as the interior of the Royal Palace of Naboo in both The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones, its grand halls and regal architecture perfectly embodying the elegance of Queen Amidala's home. | AFP via Getty Images