Disney movies are renowned for their relatable characters, heartwarming stories and mythical worlds. But did you know that many of the settings featured on the big screen were actually inspired by real places? So if you want to relive your own favourite Disney scenes, you can start by booking a trip to any of these following locations below:

Frozen: Trøndelag, Norway

Back in 2012, a team from Disney visited the central Norway region of Trøndelag, which is known for its quaint villages, unique people and way of life. It was this region that would end up inspiring the snow-covered land of Arendelle in Frozen.

Sleeping Beauty: Bavaria, Germany.

Remember the fairy tale castle featured in the classic Disney movie Sleeping Beauty, which is also a focal point in the Disney theme parks? Turns out that it was actually based on Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th century castle located on a hill located in southwest Bavaria.

Aladdin: Taj Mahal in India

Built in the 17th century, the Taj Mahal has become one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. So it's little wonder why it was used as inspiration for the fictional palace in Aladdin, right down to the white walls and architectural features.

The Princess and the Frog: New Orleans, LA

The decision to set this classic story in 1920s New Orleans stirred up quite a bit of controversy once the movie was released. But you have to admit that the animators really went all out to capture the real city’s picturesque architecture and streets.

Tangled: Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy, France

Based on the classic story of Rapunzel, Disney drew inspiration from the island community of Mont Saint-Michel to recreate the princess’ home. Located in Normandy, France, this old fortified island features several towers, a monastery, castle halls, and even an Italian Romanesque style abbey.

Lilo and Stitch: Kauai, Hawaii

The Hawaiian island of Kauai was the perfect backdrop for this feel good story about a girl and her alien BFF.  The Disney animators seem to have taken particular inspiration from the town of Hanapepe.

Brave: Scotland

Since the story revolves around a rebellious young Scottish girl, it seems natural that Disney/Pixar would have wanted to do a movie that took place in the brooding, mythical land of Scotland. Even the color palette strongly resembles the muted tones of the country, with its misty hills, green forests and overcast skies.

Beauty and The Beast: Alsace and the Loire Valley, France


Belle’s hometown was actually based on distinct architectural style and charm of real-world villages in the French region of Alsace, which is located near the border with Germany. As for the Beast's scary castle, it was actually inspired by the Renaissance-style Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley of France.

UP: Angel Falls, Venezuela


The fictional location of Paradise Falls where the main character Carl ends up getting lost was actually based on Angel Falls which is located in Canaima National Park, Venezuela.

The Lion King: the Serengeti in Tanzania and Kenya


The Serengeti, a vast plains region located in northern Tanzania that extends to Southwestern Kenya, was the inspiration for the vast wilderness and wildlife that is so predominantly featured in the movie The Lion King.