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Mamma Mia! filming locations

 

Always wanted to follow in the footsteps of the Mamma Mia! film stars? With our guide to the filming locations in Skopelos and Skiathos, you can! Read now...

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Let’s take a trip around Skopelos and Skiathos, and we reckon that when all is said and done, Greece will be your favourite destination. What’s not to love about glorious beaches and lots of sightseeing?

These Abba-solutely stunning islands are full of traditional architecture, scenic beaches and quaint villages. So take note and work through your bucket list, you can thank us later!

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SKOPELOS

Glysteri Beach

Here’s your chance to recreate the Mamma Mia! scene where Donna picks up Tanya and Rosie in the Jeep to make their way to Villa Donna! The olive groves above Glysteri Beach on the north side of Skopelos prove to be a beautiful hotspot… Not only does Sophie set off on a donkey en route to her wedding here, but it also features Sophie and her three potential fathers jumping into the sea after their sailing trip.

You’ll probably want to revisit Glysteri Beach to relax after you’ve ticked off the Mamma Mia! landmarks. With a DJ, comfortable sunbeds and tranquil waters perfect for snorkelling, there’s no wonder this little gem is popular with tourists and locals.

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Kastani Beach

Kastani Beach also stars in the movie. This well-known stretch of white sands attracted the spotlight following Sophie and Sky’s performance of ‘Lay All Your Love on Me’. Not forgetting Tanya’s rendition of ‘Does Your Mother Know’. The perfect spot for a TikTok! The small pier and beach bar shown in these two scenes were created solely for the movie, so don’t worry if you can’t see them.

What you will find is a few rows of sunbeds, water sports and a laidback beach café. It’s not ideal for those that need an easily accessible beach because of the very steep and bumpy road, but there’s plenty of parking and it’s well worth the trip.

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Chapel of Agios Ioannis

This stunning chapel might just be the star of the show. Sophie and Sky’s wedding takes place here in the movie, so couples have a great opportunity to take some romantic shots. We recommend posing at sunrise or sunset. You’ll want to psyche yourself up for the 200 narrow steps to reach the chapel though…

Mamma Mia! had to build a larger version of the chapel in the Pinewood Studios to accommodate all the wedding guests, but Agios Ioannis should be high on your list. You’ll probably remember that Sam declares he still loves Donna against the backdrop of the chapel, with ‘The Winner Takes it All’ playing. Donna runs up the steps for the wedding, but stops and turns around in the doorway to look back at Sam. Dramatic, right? Just like the rocks overlooking the Aegean.

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Amarandos Cove

Let’s go back to the south side of Skopelos. The Amarandos coastline is simply breathtaking with small islands, rugged coves and glistening waves. You’ll feel like part of the cast making your way through the pine forest, as you have flashbacks of Sophie singing ‘Honey, Honey’ while reading the lines of her mum’s diary.

The sailing scene with Sophie and her three potential fathers singing ‘Our Last Summer’ is in this part of the island too. Eye-spy the two pines on a peninsula that stand out in the film!

Top tip: if you’re travelling by car, look out for a tiny sign saying Amarandos on the right side of the road. If you come from the east, the sign will be on your left. Park next to the main road and walk the 20 minutes to avoid the bumpy road!

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Agnontas

You should plan to stop in Agnontas – this picture-postcard sight inspired the filmmakers to create the ‘Money, Money, Money’ performance with Donna.

Top tip: we recommend making a food stop in this lovely village, as the fresh fish dishes on offer at local restaurants are delicious.

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SKIATHOS

Old Port of Skiathos

Remember the scene with Sam and Harry missing the ferry to Kalokairi? Here it is, in the old port of Skiathos. Look out for sailboats like the one belonging to Bill who saves the day. You can even do a sailing trip yourself and share an authentic Greek experience with boat hosts, gastronomy and a peek at marine life included.

Finally, if you look closely, you can also see views over the old town rooftops and the Agios Nikolaos Church and Clock Tower from the opening scene, where Sophie performs ‘I Have a Dream’.

Please note that Mamma Mia! is not responsible for any element of this post and has in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered this blog.

Posted: 16th Nov 2023. Updated: 22nd Mar 2024.

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