Mission Impossible: Chase Action-Packed Filming Locations
If you're a fan of high-octane action, death-defying stunts, and international intrigue, then Mission: Impossible is the franchise for you. From rooftops to scenic vistas, the Mission: Impossible films have taken viewers to some of the most iconic locations around the world. Now, it's time to embark on your own action-packed adventure and visit these incredible filming locations that brought Ethan Hunt’s thrilling missions to life. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to some of the most unforgettable destinations from the Mission: Impossible series.
1. Paris, France – The Rooftops of the City of Lights
Few scenes in Mission: Impossible – Fallout are as heart-pounding as the chase through the rooftops of Paris. In this action-packed sequence, Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) leaps across buildings and evades enemies, all against the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower and the beautiful Parisian skyline.
What to See:
Head to Pont de Bir-Hakeim, where one of the most memorable scenes takes place as Ethan pursues his target across the rooftops. While the rooftops themselves are not open to the public, you can visit nearby locations and enjoy Paris’s vibrant streets and world-famous landmarks, such as the Louvre and Notre-Dame.
Travel Tip:
Walk along the Seine River to get a scenic view of the Eiffel Tower and the Pont de Bir-Hakeim bridge, the iconic filming spot. The city itself is an essential stop for any action or movie lover.
2. London, England – MI6 Headquarters and the Thames
London plays a pivotal role in Mission: Impossible films, especially in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. The city’s iconic landmarks, including the MI6 headquarters on the banks of the River Thames, are featured in several heart-stopping sequences.
What to See:
Visit Vauxhall Cross, where the MI6 building stands, famously used as the location for the British Intelligence Service in the Mission: Impossible series. Don't miss Westminster Bridge and Big Ben, which make an appearance in other action-packed scenes.
Travel Tip:
For an even more thrilling experience, take a Thames River cruise, which will let you see many of the action locations from a unique perspective. The cruise will pass under Tower Bridge, which was featured in several sequences in the film.
3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The Burj Khalifa
One of the most iconic stunts in the Mission: Impossible franchise is the dizzying sequence where Ethan Hunt scales the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. This daring scene from Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol was filmed high above the ground, with breathtaking views of Dubai below.
What to See:
Visit the Burj Khalifa and experience the same dizzying heights that Ethan did. The observation deck on the 148th floor offers panoramic views of Dubai’s incredible skyline and desert landscape, making it a must-see for any fan of the movie.
Travel Tip:
Book tickets to the At the Top experience at Burj Khalifa in advance, as the observation deck is a popular attraction. For even more thrills, consider booking a helicopter tour of Dubai to see the city from a bird’s-eye view, just like Ethan.
4. Prague, Czech Republic – The Prague Opera House
Prague’s beautiful architecture and historic buildings make it the perfect setting for several action sequences in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol. The Prague Opera House features prominently in the film, where a high-stakes scene takes place involving an exchange of crucial intelligence.
What to See:
Visit the National Theatre and the Prague Opera House, where you can admire the stunning architecture that served as the backdrop to one of the film's intense scenes. Don’t miss out on a stroll through Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, which are also featured in the film.
Travel Tip:
Prague is a great city to explore on foot. Take a walking tour to discover not only the filming locations but also the city’s rich history and charming cobblestone streets.
5. Venice, Italy – The Grand Canal
In Mission: Impossible – Fallout, the beautiful city of Venice serves as the dramatic setting for several action-packed sequences, including a thrilling chase along the Grand Canal. As Ethan and his team race through narrow streets and canals, the city’s famous architecture and bridges provide a stunning backdrop.
What to See:
Wander through the Piazza San Marco and cross the Rialto Bridge, two locations that make a memorable appearance in the film. The Grand Canal itself is featured in the film’s epic boat chase, where the action intensifies amidst Venice’s picturesque canals.
Travel Tip:
For the full Venice experience, consider taking a gondola ride through the canals. You can also visit Ca' d'Oro, the stunning 15th-century palace that makes a prominent appearance in the film’s chase scenes.
6. Norway – The Pulpit Rock
For the breathtaking sequence in Mission: Impossible – Fallout where Ethan Hunt chases his target through rugged terrain, the majestic Pulpit Rock in Norway provides the perfect backdrop. The dramatic cliffs and fjords create an incredible setting for the intense action scene.
What to See:
The Pulpit Rock hike offers jaw-dropping views over Lysefjord, making it one of Norway’s most famous natural landmarks. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a photography enthusiast, the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular.
Travel Tip:
The hike to Pulpit Rock is challenging and can take around 4-5 hours, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. Make sure to plan for a day trip to soak in the stunning views and enjoy Norway’s natural beauty.
7. Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Yas Marina Circuit
The high-speed chase scenes in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol were filmed on the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, home to the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix. The action-packed moments set against the backdrop of the modern city are unforgettable.
What to See:
If you’re visiting during the Formula 1 season, you can catch the Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the Yas Marina Circuit offers a thrilling atmosphere and views of the modern architecture of Abu Dhabi.
Travel Tip:
Take a tour of the Yas Marina Circuit for an insider look at the iconic racetrack. And if you're a fan of high-speed thrills, consider booking a driving experience to race around the track yourself!
8. Auckland, New Zealand – The Sky Tower
In Mission: Impossible – Fallout, the iconic Sky Tower in Auckland makes an appearance during an intense action sequence, with Ethan Hunt fighting for survival. The tower offers a thrilling view of the city and is one of the tallest structures in the Southern Hemisphere.
What to See:
Visit Auckland Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and its stunning coastline. The glass-floored observation deck offers a dizzying perspective, making it the perfect spot for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush.
Travel Tip:
Book a Sky Jump or Sky Walk experience for the ultimate thrill. You can literally jump off the tower (with safety gear, of course), mimicking the high-stakes action from the film!
Conclusion – Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It
The Mission: Impossible franchise is known for its heart-pounding action and breathtaking locations, and now it’s time for you to experience it firsthand. From scaling the Burj Khalifa to chasing down villains through the streets of Venice, these action-packed filming locations bring the excitement of Ethan Hunt’s missions to life.
Ready to plan your mission? Use our flight search widget to find the best deals and start booking your action-packed adventure to these iconic filming locations today!