Budapest stole the hearts of many celebrities — Here’s why they adore the Hungarian capital so much
Hollywood A-listers can’t get enough of Budapest! From Will Smith celebrating his birthday in the city to Tom Hanks marvelling at its beauty, the Hungarian capital has become a favourite among film stars. With its stunning landmarks, vibrant atmosphere, and growing reputation as a top filming location, Budapest continues to shine on the global stage.
Celebrities love Budapest
As Femina writes, Hollywood stars have often praised Budapest, with some, like Will Smith, returning numerous times. Tom Hanks, who visited during the filming of Inferno, was particularly captivated by the city. Comparing it to his hometown of San Francisco, he admired Budapest’s stunning mix of mountains, plains, and the Danube, especially its mesmerising night-time illumination. He was also struck by the city’s sense of safety, recalling his surprise at seeing young women cycling and strolling late at night without concern, something he found rare in American cities.
Always coming back for more
Will Smith’s first visit to Hungary was during the filming of the sci-fi thriller Gemini Man, which showcased Budapest as a central location. The actor was so captivated by the city’s charm that he chose to celebrate his 50th birthday in Budapest. This was not just a fleeting visit; Smith became a frequent guest in the city, often sharing his experiences on social media.
24.hu notes that the film itself highlighted Budapest’s iconic landmarks, such as Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and Vajdahunyad castle, giving the city a starring role it rarely receives in Hollywood productions. Director Ang Lee and producer Jerry Bruckheimer also praised Budapest’s facilities, making it an ideal film choice. The city’s beauty and Smith’s affection for it have certainly contributed to its growing popularity as a cultural and cinematic destination.
Professional crew
As we reported, in 2023, Johnny Depp captivated the Hungarian capital with the filming of Modi, a biographical drama about the Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani. As the city transformed into early 20th-century Paris, fans were thrilled to catch glimpses of the Pirates of the Caribbean star, who delighted them with waves and kisses. Depp’s presence in Budapest kept the city abuzz, with numerous sightings and videos surfacing online.
Notably, the film also features Al Pacino, adding to its star-studded cast. Behind the scenes, crew members praised Depp’s warm and respectful treatment of the Hungarian team, highlighting his kindness to everyone involved in the production. This positive interaction was echoed across social media platforms, including TikTok, where fans shared their encounters and insights into the filming process.
Hotspot for international productions
In recent years, the Hungarian capital has become a hotspot for international film productions, attracting stars like Angelina Jolie and Morgan Freeman. Jolie first visited Budapest in 2010 to direct In the Land of Blood and Honey, accompanied by her then-husband Brad Pitt and their children. She returned in 2023 to star in the biopic about opera legend Maria Callas, a film that showcases the city’s iconic venues such as the Hungarian State Opera House and the Franz Liszt Academy of Music.
Meanwhile, Morgan Freeman was spotted in Budapest in 2024, reportedly for the filming of Now You See Me series. During his stay, he frequently visited the Déryné restaurant in the city’s 1st district, highlighting the city’s appeal not just as a filming location but also as a cultural destination.
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