James Bond is known for his globe-trotting adventures, but he’s also had some memorable Swiss escapades.
For example, the stylish streets, restaurants, and hotels of Geneva and Bern have been the backdrop for numerous films.
And let’s not forget about Zurich, which has been used as a filming location for many action scenes, such as ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service‘.
So if you’re looking for a taste of Hollywood glamour, be sure to add Switzerland to your list of must-visit destinations.
Below, we are going to present to you James Bond and other iconic blockbusters filmed in Switzerland.
James Bond movies filmed in Switzerland
If you’re a fan of the James Bond movies, then you know that Switzerland is one of the most popular filming locations.
After all, what could be more glamorous than skiing down a mountain or driving a fast car through the Swiss Alps?
However, there’s more to Switzerland than just picturesque scenery. The country is also home to some of the world’s most advanced film production facilities.
In addition, this country offers a variety of tax incentives for filmmakers, making it an increasingly attractive destination for big-budget productions.
So, here is our list of James Bond movies filmed in Switzerland:
- Golden eye,
- Goldfinger,
- On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
- Spy Who Loved Me
- A View To A Kill
So if you’re looking for a taste of James Bond’s Switzerland, be sure to check out the films from the list.
Combine your love of movies and Switzerland in Locarno Film Festival.
Golden eye (1995)
The film Golden Eye is best remembered for its iconic opening scene, in which James Bond jumps from the Val Verzasca dam to escape from some Soviet agents.
The scene was filmed in Switzerland, and it quickly became one of the most famous scenes in the entire James Bond franchise. In fact, it’s often considered to be one of the most iconic action scenes of all time.
Now comes the best bit. If you’ve ever wanted to live like James Bond, now is your chance!
The Verzasca Dam in Ticino, Switzerland, is the site of an epic 220-meter bungee jump that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
This stunt is considered one of the best and most exciting in the world, so it’s definitely suitable for all fans who want to recreate an iconic moment.
And what could be more iconic than jumping off a dam in Switzerland like James Bond?
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, head to the Verzasca Dam in Switzerland and take the plunge!
Goldfinger (1964)
For movie fans, the name “James Bond” conjures up images of fast cars, gorgeous women, and globe-trotting adventures. And in many ways, the cinematic incarnation of Bond is true to life.
Like the fictional character, the real-life 007 was a skilled driver who often found himself in high-speed chases. In one such chase, Bond was pursuing his enemy Goldfinger across a mountain road.
In fact, this dramatic scene took place not too far from the Swiss capital city of Bern. And the best thing about it is that you can visit the filming location yourself without spending a dime.
Just head on down to the Furka Pass in Switzerland and you’ll be able to see the very spot where Bond and Tilly Masterson had their little run-in.
In addition, the Aurora hotel is still there and it’s the second-best thing to visit in the area.
It’s a great place to visit if you’re a fan of the Bond movies, and even if you’re not, the scenery is pretty spectacular. So definitely add it to your list of must-see places if you’re ever in Switzerland.
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)
‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ is a movie with a lot of Switzerland locations in it.
The film was mostly shot around Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, but by far the most iconic location from this James Bond movie is Piz Gloria on the Schilthorn.
Piz Gloria is a mountain peak in the Swiss Alps that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. It also happens to be home to a secret villain’s lair.
In the real world, Piz Gloria is a revolving restaurant that heavily pays homage to its James Bond connection.
You can still visit this place in Switzerland. All you need is a ticket.
While the movie wasn’t particularly well-received by critics, its Switzerland locations have become iconic.
And who can forget that famous scene where James Bond skis off a cliff and is saved at the last minute by his ski instructor, played by Diana Rigg?
If you’re a fan of James Bond or just looking for some stunning views, you definitely should visit these Switzerland places.
Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
If you’re a fan of the James Bond franchise, then you might be interested to know that one of the films was partially filmed in Switzerland.
“Partially” because the only scene that was actually shot in Switzerland was the opening ski scene leading up to the jump was shot in Switzerland. The actual jump was shot in Canada.
The scene starts with Bond (played by Roger Moore) skiing backwards down a mountainside, with Soviet agents hot on his tail. As the agents close in, Bond manages to shoot one of them with his ski pole, leading to an impressive tumble down the slopes.
Located in the Engadin region, Piz Bernina is the highest summit in the area and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or simply enjoy a leisurely hike, Piz Bernina is a great destination for all kinds of travelers.
A View To A Kill (1985)
‘A View To A Kill’ is one of the most famous James Bond films, and it is also one of the few that features scenes shot in Switzerland.
However, many people are unaware that only the opening shot of the movie was filmed in Switzerland.
In fact, the entire opening sequence was not filmed in one continuous take, as is commonly believed. Instead, it was filmed in several different locations, including France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
The iconic opening scene from the James Bond film “A View to a Kill”, which we are talking about, was filmed at the Vadretta di Scerscen Inferiore Glacier in the Swiss Alps.
However, the majority of the scene is actually set in Iceland, as Bond is seen skiing across a beautiful Icelandic glacier.
Nonetheless, the film is still considered to be one of the best in the series, and its iconic opening sequence is a testament to its timeless appeal.
Blockbusters filmed in Switzerland
While Switzerland is best known for its picturesque mountain scenery, it has also proved to be a popular filming location for a number of Hollywood blockbusters.
With its stunning landscapes and convenient location, it’s no wonder that Switzerland has become such a popular destination for filmmakers.
There is our list of 5 best blockbusters filmed in Switzerland:
- Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
- Youth
- Syriana
- The Informant!
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)
The Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith movie’s Swiss location wasn’t chosen randomly – it was specifically chosen to provide a dramatic setting for the film’s climax.
And it definitely achieves that goal, with the snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes serving as a stark contrast to the film’s dark and intense story.
The snowy peaks of “Alderaan” are the Bernese Alps around Grindelwald in Switzerland.
Youth (2015)
Youth is one of the best blockbusters filmed in Switzerland.
The film is set against the backdrop of the beautiful Swiss landscape and features some of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
From the snow-capped mountains to the luxury hotels, Switzerland has never looked so good.
Scenes of the film Youth were filmed in Davos, Switzerland, particularly in the Hotel Schatzalp.
If you are interested in this hotel and want to visit Davos, check out our blog about things to do in Davos.
Syriana (2005)
Syriana was filmed in a whopping 19 different countries, including Switzerland.
From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, Switzerland provides the perfect backdrop for this edge-of-your-seat thriller.
The character played by Matt Damon is an energy analyst in Geneva, and several of the city’s landmarks are used in the film, which you can still visit today.
Read our blog about Geneva and things to do while there.
The Informant! (2009)
When Matt Damon was filming the hit movie ‘The Informant!’, he brought some Hollywood glamour to the Limmatquai promenade in downtown Zurich.
City Hall was transformed into a movie set, with over 50 technicians and 90 extras milling about.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo film has many scenes filmed in Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich.
The main character, Lisbeth Salander, spends a significant amount of time in Zurich, carrying out transactions and staying in the city’s finest hotel.
The Dolder Grand Hotel is a castle perched atop a hill, and the film takes full advantage of its fairytale setting.
Conclusion
Switzerland is a beautiful country with stunning scenery, making it the perfect place to film a movie.
We presented to you James Bond movies which have filmed several scenes in Switzerland and other iconic blockbusters that also have been shot in popular Swiss cities and mountains.
You must have heard, watched or maybe you are a fan of some of these iconic blockbusters.
So, next time you’re enjoying a quiet mountain hike or Swiss natural beauty remember that you might be following in the footsteps of Hollywood royalty.
