"Mamma Mia!" has captivated audiences worldwide with its infectious ABBA soundtrack and heartwarming story, but perhaps equally enchanting are the breathtaking landscapes that serve as the backdrop for this cinematic gem. Ever since "Mamma Mia!"’s release, alongside classics such as "Summer Lovers" in the early 1980s, movie fanatics are drawn to explore the real-world locations where Donna and her daughter, Sophie, danced, sang, and searched for answers. This guide unveils the secrets behind these idyllic settings, allowing you to plan your own sun-drenched escape to the locations of "Mamma Mia!".
The original "Mamma Mia!", released in 2008, tells the story of Sophie’s quest to discover the identity of her father before her wedding. Ten years later, the sequel, "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again," explored Donna’s younger years and the events that led to her life on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi. Both movies transported viewers to a world of turquoise waters, whitewashed villages, and vibrant bougainvillea, inspiring countless travelers to seek out these picture-perfect destinations.
If the allure of the original "Mamma Mia!" has captured your imagination, then prepare to set sail for the sun-kissed shores of Greece. The principal filming locations for the first movie include the enchanting coastal village of Damouchari in the Pelion region, and the captivating Greek islands of Skopelos and Skiathos. For those who were particularly charmed by the sequel, the island of Vis in Croatia served as the primary backdrop for "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again."
Let’s embark on a journey to explore each of these locations, uncovering their unique history, charm, and the best ways to experience their "Mamma Mia!" magic.
Skiathos, Greece
Nestled in the Aegean Sea, Skiathos is a verdant island paradise known for its pristine beaches and lively atmosphere. This location offered several settings for key scenes in the first "Mamma Mia!" movie. The island’s golden sandy beaches shimmered on screen, as well as the Old Port of Skiathos Town, which provided the setting for the first meeting of Sophie’s three potential fathers. Though the scene of Sophie posting her fateful letters near the St. Nikolaos Bell Tower was a composite shot, the charm of the area is undeniable.
Beyond its cinematic appeal, Skiathos boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The island is home to charming villages, ancient monasteries, and bustling tavernas serving fresh seafood and local delicacies. During filming, it is rumored that the cast and crew enjoyed the hospitality of establishments such as the Skiathos Princess Hotel, Skiathos Palace Hotel, and Mandraki Village. For a taste of authentic Skiathos cuisine, be sure to visit Asprolithos, Polikratis, Sophia’s Place, and the Windmill, all popular dining spots frequented by the "Mamma Mia!" team.
Reaching Skiathos is straightforward, with direct flights to Skiathos Airport (JSI) available from many European cities. From the airport, you can easily access the island’s main town and connect to nearby Skopelos and the Pelion region via ferry.
Skopelos, Greece
Skopelos, often called the "green and blue island," is a tranquil haven renowned for its lush pine forests, dramatic cliffs, and secluded coves. This island served as the primary location for the fictional island of Kalokairi in the original "Mamma Mia!". Many of the film’s most iconic outdoor scenes were filmed on its beaches and within its charming towns.
The mountainous peninsula near Glisteri Beach was the location for Sophie’s departure for her wedding. A dramatic cliff on the same peninsula was used for the heart-stopping cliff-jumping scene with Sophie and her potential fathers. South of Agnondas, off Stafylos Road, lies a picturesque beach where the cast of "Mamma Mia!" enjoyed a delightful picnic.
Skopelos offers a glimpse into authentic Greek island life, with its traditional villages, welcoming locals, and stunning natural beauty. It is said that many of the cast and crew found accommodation in the Skopelos Village Hotel, the Prince Stafilos Hotel, the Adrina Beach Hotel, and the Aeolos Hotel. The cast and crew also frequented local restaurants such as Agioli, Tis Annas, To Perivoli, The Garden, and Agnanti.
While Skopelos does not have its own airport, you can easily reach the island by flying into Skiathos and then taking a ferry. The ferry ride offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands, making it a memorable part of your "Mamma Mia!" adventure.
Damouchari, Pelion Region, Greece
Nestled on the eastern coast of mainland Greece, the Pelion region offers a blend of rugged mountains, verdant forests, and charming coastal villages. Damouchari, a picturesque harbor village, played a significant role in the filming of the first "Mamma Mia!". This location is approximately 30 minutes from Volos and directly north of Athens.
Footage captured in Damouchari was skillfully combined with scenes shot on Skopelos and Skiathos to create the overall ambiance of Kalokairi. The beginning of the movie, when Christine Baranski and Julie Walters arrive on the island and are greeted by Meryl Streep, features the village prominently. Damouchari’s Blue Beach also served as the setting for many of the film’s beach scenes.
Although Villa Donna, Donna’s iconic hotel, is portrayed as being on the cliffs above Glysteri Beach on Skopelos, most of the interior and exterior scenes were filmed in a studio in Hollywood. However, the dancers flitting through olive groves near Villa Donna were filmed in real olive groves in Damouchari.
Damouchari exudes an authentic Greek charm, with its traditional stone houses, quaint harbor, and tranquil atmosphere. The village offers a welcome escape from the crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pelion region.
Vis, Croatia
For the sequel, "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again," the fictional island of Kalokairi underwent a transformation, moving from Skopelos, Greece, to the stunning Croatian island of Vis. Located furthest from the mainland, Vis was a military base until 1983, so it remained relatively untouched by tourism prior to the movie’s release. Since "Mamma Mia!" the island has become a popular tourist destination.
Vis boasts dramatic natural landscapes, including the majestic cliffs surrounding Stiniva Cove and the mesmerizing Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo. The Blue Cave is known for its eerie, glowing blue light, created by the sun’s rays reflecting off the limestone walls around noon.
The island of Vis offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and authentic Croatian charm. You can get to Vis by flying into the city of Split, where you can catch a ferry to the island.
"Mamma Mia!" is not only a feel-good movie musical but also a visual feast that showcases the beauty of Greece and Croatia. By visiting these "Mamma Mia!" filming locations, you can step into the world of Donna and Sophie, sing your heart out, and create your own unforgettable memories in these idyllic settings. So, pack your bags, grab your dancing shoes, and prepare for a "Mamma Mia!" inspired adventure of a lifetime.
The influence of "Mamma Mia!" on tourism to these locations is undeniable, as fans flock to experience the magic firsthand. So, plan your visit wisely, book accommodations in advance, and get ready to say "Thank You for the Music" to the stunning landscapes that brought "Mamma Mia!" to life.
Whether you are a die-hard "Mamma Mia!" fan or simply seeking a breathtaking escape, these filming locations offer an experience that is sure to leave you singing and dancing long after you’ve returned home. "Mamma Mia!"!
