Indiana Jones Dial of Destiny filmed in Sicily

Blockbuster film location sites have become ‘must see’ destinations for the touring traveller. The silver screen has inspired people to visit cities, islands and places of historical interest around the world since movies began.

Where an Ancient City Meets the Modern World – Ask Indiana Jones!

Rail tour specialist Ffestiniog Travel believes Sicily looks set to be the next cinema-draw destination in 2023 – not because of its famed ‘The Godfather’ links, but this time thanks to Indian Jones!  

The Italian island plays host to the fifth installment of the Indian Jones franchise – Dial of Destiny – which opens in cinemas at the end of June. The historic city of Siracusa with its Greek, Roman and Baroque heritage is a perfect backdrop for Harrison Ford’s famous archaeologist.

The beautiful city is included in Ffestiniog Travel’s Southern Italy & Sicily escorted rail tour which combines train journeys that travel through forested mountains, across unspoilt countryside and along sparkling coastlines with visits to historic landmarks and volcanoes.

General Manager Maria Cook commented; “Filming took place at historic locations in Siracusa – at its famous cave, the Ear of Dionysus which dates back to Greek and Roman times, Maniace Castle and the Neapolis archaeological park as well as other places around the island.

“Our travellers will get to visit this ancient city and other parts of the island ahead of the film release and the ensuing tourist crowds as our 13-day escorted tour departs in May!”

There are many highlights to the rail tour beyond the silver screen credits:

Southern Italy and Sicily by Train

This long-awaited rail tour to Southern Italy and Sicily has been re-introduced to Ffestiniog Travel’s escorted tour programme for the first time in 12 years and its itinerary will appeal to the train tourists looking to travel through stunning scenery and enjoy cultural excursions to ancient sites and exploring historic, vibrant cities.

Travel on pretty narrow gauge rail lines, including seats in heritage carriages on the charming Sila steam train in Southern Italy as well as riding great coastal train routes.  The tour includes a journey on one of only 2 remaining train ferries in Europe between Italy’s mainland and Sicily, which has been described as one of Europe’s best kept secrets.

Stunning sightseeing on this newly extended tour includes the ruins of Pompeii, Vesuvius and Mt Etna and there will be time to explore Taormina, Cosenza, Siricusa and Palermo.  

Departing 9 May 2023 this 13-day escorted holiday is priced at £2,965pp (based on two sharing) and includes return flights, all rail travel, B&B hotel accommodation, transfers, excursions and the services of a tour leader throughout.

Maria Cook added: ‘Having watched the latest Indian Jones film trailer, there are other locations closer to home including Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland and for rail fans, an action sequence on board a steam train which includes location shots from the North Yorkshire Moors Railway!”

LEARN MORE: ffestiniogtravel.com