Filming Historic Drama in Budapest: Kit Harington and New Film Rules
Budapest is no stranger to the magic of international film productions, and in late 2025, the city once again plays a starring role as a set for high-profile projects. Among the most talked-about productions is the BBC One adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel, A Tale of Two Cities, currently filming on location in bustling areas such as Liberty Square in District 5. This drama brings the French Revolution vividly to life, with actors and extras dressed in period costumes, horse-drawn carriages, and scenes carefully crafted to transport audiences back to the 18th century.
Kit Harington, well-known for his role as Jon Snow in Game of Thrones, takes the lead role of Sydney Carton, paired with French actor François Civil as Charles Darnay, and Mirren Mack as Lucie Manette, whose complex love story entwines the two men. Although Harington was not present on location for all scenes, his involvement signals Budapest’s continued appeal to internationally renowned artists and production companies.
The filming, which began in September and is expected to continue for several weeks, highlights Budapest’s versatility as a cinematic backdrop. The city’s historic squares and streets offer perfect settings for period dramas, while its vibrant culture and architecture add unique layers to storytelling.
New Stricter Rules for Filming in the Inner City
While Budapest thrives as a favored European film location, the inner city council has recently introduced stricter regulations to balance the demands of film production with the daily lives of its residents. Film shoots are now limited to a maximum of 15 filming days per street section, square, or park annually. This move aims to prevent any single location from being overused, which had led to repeated disruptions for locals.
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Producers must provide parking solutions or compensation if their activities interfere with residents’ access, and detailed notifications about filming schedules and contact information are required at least a week in advance. A portion of filming fees collected by the city is now earmarked to benefit nearby residents directly.
These regulations show Budapest’s commitment to maintaining its reputation as a film-friendly city while respecting community quality of life. For visitors, this means productions will still bring cinematic magic to the streets without overwhelming neighborhoods, making it easier to enjoy both daily life and occasional film sets during your stay.
Why Budapest Remains a Cinematic Gem
Budapest’s combination of historic architecture, diverse cityscapes, and modern infrastructure continues to attract international productions, from Game of Thrones alumni like Kit Harington to large franchise films such as Dune: Part Three. With experienced local crews and supportive city policies, Budapest offers filmmakers a dynamic and efficient environment.
For tourists, spotting a film crew or recognizable actors can add an extra layer of excitement to an already vibrant visit. Carefully regulated shoots ensure these moments enhance rather than disrupt your experience of Budapest’s colorful streets, squares, and landmarks.
Whether you’re wandering the beautifully preserved streets of District 5 or exploring the grand public squares, you might catch a glimpse of history being recreated on camera—or perhaps glimpse behind the scenes of the next great television drama.
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