Game of Thrones Tour // How to See Game of Thrones in Real Life

What is Game of Thrones?

In case you don’t have as excellent taste as me and don’t know what Game of Thrones is – it is an American fantasy drama HBO series that was created and based off of George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. Β The series has been filmed in a studio – the studio is located in Belfast – and on location in several different areas of the world including Northern Ireland, Malta, Scotland, Croatia, Iceland, Spain, and Morocco meaning you can put together your own Game of Thrones tour.

The series is set in the fictional Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and follows the realm’s noble families and their struggles for control of the Iron Throne.


Game of Thrones Malta Locations


Mdina – The Crowded Planet

In season 1, the filming location for King’s Landing wasn’t Dubrovnik, but the medieval town of Mdina in Malta. Mdina is nicknamed ‘the city of silence’, due to the fact that only 400 people live there full time and once the day-trippers are gone, it’s a truly magical place, a hilltop village full of twisty cobbled streets lined with golden-colored buildings.
There are several GoT locations you can visit in Mdina – Littlefinger’s pleasure house is the trellised terrace on Mesquita Square, which was also where the fight between Jamie Lannister and Ned Stark was filmed. The tearful farewell between Ned and Catelyn Stark after the death of King Robert was also filmed in Mdina, in front of the city gate.
Malta is easy to travel around by busΒ – from capital Valletta to Mdina it only takes about half an hour and tickets are very inexpensive.

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GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Azure Window // Mind of a Hitchhiker

One of the very first episodes of Game of Thrones was shot at the Azure Window in Gozo. Daenerys’ wedding had the backdrop of this surreal rock formation dipping into the Mediterranean Sea. Even though the window has since collapsed, this part of Gozo is still worth a visit. With or without window, Gozo’s natural beauty will make you understand the director’s choice to have it represent the Dothraki territory in Essos.

Take the ferry into Malta from Italy or, more commonly, take a plane from a European or African city. From there, take local transport to the ferry to Gozo in Cirkewwa. Enjoy the 45-minute ferry ride across. It goes many times a day and the crossing is generally smooth. Ask on arrival in MΔ‘arr for local transport to the Azure Window. If people tell you it doesn’t exist anymore, ask for Dwejra Bay. San Lawrenz is the nearest town and has accommodation.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Game of Thrones Croatia Locations


City Walls, Dubrovnik // Megan Starr

The City Walls of Dubrovnik are one of the first things that come to mind when tourists think of the Croatian city.Β  The defensive stone walls that we see today were built during the 12th-17th centuries and were never breached by hostile armies, helping them stay intact for tourism today.Β  The walls are seen in several scenes in Game of Thrones, including the Battle of Backwater Bay in season two.Β  The west wall near Pile Gate was also used in Game of Thrones as a practice yard during the fourth season.Β  The walls have become one of the most prominent aspects of the series.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Stradum, Dubrovnik // Megan Starr

The Stradun is the main street of Dubrovnik and it runs for over 300 meters through the city’s old town.Β  The street became the main street of Dubrovnik during the 13th century and its current appearance was created after the 1667 earthquake demolished many parts of the city.Β  Today, the street is the main thoroughfare for tourists as it is surrounded by the famous City Walls and it offers a luxurious shopping experience, several restaurant options, and many other things to cater to Dubrovnik tourists.Β  Stradun came to fame in Game of Thrones when Cersei Lannister took her walk of penance there.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Fort Bokar, Dubrovnik // Megan Starr

The Bokar fortress, or Zvjezdan, is one of Europe’s most famous and recognizable forts and has played a major role in Dubrovnik’s history.Β  The two-story Medieval structure allows the sea to pass beneath it just as it did when it was initially built in the 1400-1500s.Β  Bokar’s current state is the same of that in 1570 and it helped Dubrovnik achieve UNESCO status as a city.Β  Its role in Game of Thrones took place during the second season when Tyrion and Lord Varys were talking about defense plans of King’s Landing.Β  The fortress is the oldest casemented one in Europe and is open to visitors.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


St Dominika Street, Dubrovnik // Eat Sleep Breathe Travel

St. Dominika Street, located within the old walled city of Dubrovnik, is easily recognized by Game of Thrones fans. Many market scenes and Gold Cloak scenes all take place here, though perhaps it is best known for being the backdrop in season 5 when Queen Circe walks down the iconic flight of stairs naked as she then makes her way through the winding streets in penance to the cries of shame! Shame! Shame! It’s definitely a must-see for any GoT fan, though I suggest keeping your clothes on during your visit!

For those wishing to visit the location, it’s easy and free to get to. The baroque style stairs, which are known as the Jesuit Steps, are located on the south side of Gundulic Square and lead up to the Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius. They are, understandably, very popular and home to plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating at the base.So if you want to escape the crowds, I’d suggest getting up really early. I visited mid-morning and evening and they were packed both times.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Fort St Lawrence (Fort Lovrijenac) // Kollecting Koordinates

β€œPower is power.” Remember that hair-raising scene between Cersei and Littlefinger? What about the tourney on Joffrey’s name day? And who can forget the epic Battle of Blackwater? These memorable scenes were all filmed at Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik, which was Season 2’s Red Keep in King’s Landing.

Fort Lovrijenac is located just outside the Old City of Dubrovnik. Entrance fee is included in the ticket to walk the walls, or with a Dubrovnik Card. You’ll have to hike up some stairs but the phenomenal view of the Old City makes it worthwhile. Visit both during the day and at night, when you can see King’s Landing all lit up.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


Minceta Tower //Β Β The Travelling Pinoys

Minceta Tower is a symbol of the unconquerable city of Dubrovnik. The tower is the strong port located in the north of the famous Walls of Dubrovnik – a series of defensive walls surrounding the city of Dubrovnik. It is named after the Mincetic family who owned the land where it was built. Minceta is also the highest point of its defense system and is known to be the most visited part of the wall.

The tower is famous for its gothic-style crown that is more of aesthetic than a defensive design. The base of the tower was used as the exterior of the House of Undying in Season 2 where Daenerys Targaryen walks around to find her stolen dragons.Β  These days, the tower provides a magnificent view of the city that no other place in Dubrovnik can provide.

game of thrones tour


Trsteno ArboretumΒ // Wales to Wherever

Located in Trsteno, a district of Dubrovnik, Trsteno Arboretum, which dates all the way back to the 15th Century, is the oldest arboretum in that part of the world, and most recognizable as the place where Lady Olenna Tyrell seems to meet everyone to scheme and drink tea. It’s featured quite frequently throughout the series, although mostly in passing so you’d be forgiven for having to take a second glance. If you’re staying in Dubrovnik, there are at least 7 daily departures from the bus terminal to Trsteno, and it takes anywhere between 20 to 40 minutes to get there. You’ll know when to get off the bus as there is a really big tree (an oriental plane, which is kind of a big deal) and a sign saying ‘Trsteno Arboretum’. There’s also a camping site right next door to the Arboretum if you like it enough to stay. In the summer months (May to October), the site is open fromΒ 7amΒ toΒ 7pm, but from November to April it’s open fromΒ 8am to 4pm.Β The entry fee is 50 Kuna for adults, 30 Kuna for children.

game of thrones tour


DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE, SPLIT // Passing Thru

Split (Croatia) is a popular destination for GOT fans who will immediately recognize Diocletian’s Palace from the earliest episodes of the series. This UNESCO site is one of the rare cases where modern day people still live in the historic monument. The majority of visitors to Split either disembark for the day from the many cruise ships that use this as a port of call or opt for inexpensive lodgings in the city. Instead, we recommend you book accommodations in the Palace itself; there are a variety of quite affordable options ranging from small one or two room inns to boutique hotels with a dozen or more rooms. During your stay, it will be easy to imagine yourself transported back to Roman times, or even subject to the evil House of Lannister. Enjoy live entertainment in the squares and courtyards, shop for souvenirs and artisan goods, and drink and dine in the numerous restaurants and bars within the Palace walls. This stop isΒ one of our most favorite memoriesΒ in Croatia.

GAME OF THRONES TOUR


LOKRUM ISLAND // BETWEEN ENGLAND & IOWA

Lokrom Island is a protected nature reserve with no vehicles, no staying on the island overnight and is home lots of peacocks and giant rabbits!Β  It makes for a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik’s Old Town with lots of peaceful hiking routes and rocky swimming areas.Β  The ‘Path of Paradise’ leads up to the Fort on the highest part of Lokrum Island.Β  Game of Thrones fans can even sit on one of the Thrones that is located in the visitor center!
It is easily reached from the Old Town of Dubrovnik in Croatia.Β  Ferries leave the Old Town Harbour jetty once an hour, with the first leaving atΒ 10amΒ and the last ferry leaves Lokrum Island atΒ 6pm.Β  Ferries take around 15 minutes and return tickets cost 100KN.
GAME OF THRONES TOUR

Β SIBENIK // TRACY’S TRAVELS IN TIME

Sibenik was used by Game of Throne producers as the city of Braavos. The Cathedral of St James is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and appears in the series when Arya Stark is seen in the courtyard in front of the Cathedral.

The Cathedral is special because over the 105 years it took to be built 3 different architects were involved and it ended up being built in a blend of Gothic and Renaissance forms.

It is built entirely of stone – just stone…like a giant lego construction. No mortar – it is held together by well-cut blocks! It also has a very impressive portal apparently in competition with the one in Trogir – trying to out-portal each other (probably not a lot of entertainment in the middle ages).

game of thrones tour


TROGIR // TRACY’S TRAVELS IN TIME

Trogir is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. The town is surrounded by walls built in the 15th century – it takes about 30 minutes to walk around the town. The main buildings are the 15th-century town hall the Cathedral of St Lawrence with its very impressive Portal of Radovan.Β In Game of Thrones,Β Trogir represented the trading harbor of Qarth.

Trogir is about 30 kms from Split and can easily be reached by bus within 25/30 minutes. It is then possible to then travel onto Sibenik by bus. This is a further 50 kms. We took a tour from Split which incorporated both sights.

game of thrones tour

game of thrones tour


Fortress of Klis // Wales to Wherever

Situated slightly north of Yunkai and Astapor (or just outside of Split, for those not living in George R.R. Martin’s fictional world), Klis Fortress is better known to some as the City of Meereen. The history of Klis Fortress is almost as interesting as that of Meereen – built “somewhere around 3 B.C.” and originally intended as an Illyrian stronghold, the fortress has passed from Empire to Empire and has certainly seen its fair share of bloodshed over the years. Due to its ideal location and natural defenses, Klis Fortress has long been considered one of Croatia’s most important defensive structures. Overlooking the village of Klis, it offers unrivaled panoramic views of the city of Split and surrounding areas. Yet despite being broadcast to millions of people worldwide, Klis Fortress remains relatively unknown to visitors and is the perfect half-day trip from Split. The easiest and most direct way to get there is by hopping on the Number 22 bus right outside the National Theatre. This bus stops right outside the Fortress but doesn’t run on weekends. Entrance to Klis Fortress is 20 Kuna for adults, 10 Kuna for children. Read more about the Fortress of Klis.

game of thrones tour


Game of Thrones Northern Ireland Locations

Make sure to check out all the things you to do in Ireland while you’re there!


Downhill Demesne

Downhill Demesne is located in County Londonderry and is a perfect addition to a road trip along the Causeway Coast or as a day trip from Derry. Downhill Beach is one of the most visited and beautiful beaches in Northern Ireland. You can even drive your car on the beach!

Downhill Demesne and Beach made a few appearances in Game of Thrones. Most noteworthy is the scene in which Melisandre and Stannis Baratheon burn the statues of the Seven in Season 2.

game of thrones tour


Larrybane Quarry

Larrybane Quarry is directly next to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and, in fact, is used as overflow parking for this one of a kind attraction. Larrybane Quarry used to be a chalk quarry until the 1970s. Aside from its role of parking lot, it was also used as the setting for Renly Baratheon’s camp in Season Two of Game of Thrones.

game of thrones tour


Ballintoy Harbour

Ballintoy Harbour ended up being one of my absolute favorite spots in all of Northern Ireland and Ireland combined. Don’t get me wrong – there were plenty of contenders and some other places that beat it, but there was something so peaceful about this little harbor. I was definitely loving the vibe here.

When driving along the Causeway Coast, definitely make a stop at Ballintoy Harbour. It’s very close to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and not too far from Giant’s Causeway.

Ballintoy Harbour is most notably known as the exterior of Iron Islands. It is also used as Lordsport.

game of thrones tour


Dark Hedges

Probably one of the most well-known filming locations for Game of Thrones is the Dark Hedges. After seeing these magnificent giant trees, I know why. The Dark Hedges is a long row of trees lining the road on the backroads of County Antrim.

This magical spot was used as part of the Kingsroad. You’ll find them in the scene where Arya Stark passes through as part of the Night’s Watch recruits headed North.

game of thrones tour


Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a ruined medieval castle in County Antrim. The castle sits on extremely steep drop-offsΒ and is connected to the mainland via a bridge. Dunluce Castle is used as the filming site of Pyke of House Greyjoy. This was actually one of my favorite castle stops on the trip. I got to see Dunluce Castle and Kinbane Castle (this actually ended up being my favorite!)Β on the same day.

game of thrones tour


Cushendon Caves //Β Faraway Lucy

Cushenden Caves, the background for The Stormlands in Game of Thrones, are located in the beautiful coastal village of Cushenden along Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast. They were formed over 400 million years of extreme weather conditions and coastal erosion. You may remember the caves appearing in an iconic scene in Season Two where Davos Seaworth takes the sorceress Melisandre into a cave to give birth to a shadow baby (which eventually kills Renly Baratheon!). Aside from being a Game of Thrones landmark, the village also has a beautiful sweeping beach, scenic paths, and some small shops and pubs. It’s definitely worth the stop on your Causeway Coast road trip, whether you’re a die-hard Game of Thrones fan or not!
game of thrones tour

Β Castle Ward –Β Best Bits Worldwide

Sometimes it’s better to refrain from visiting GOT locations and just leave it to the imagination. Winterfell might just be one of those places. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth the visit. About an hour’s drive from Belfast, Castle Ward, as it’s called in real life, is much more interesting than the tower that inspired Winterfell. These pictures above are not of two buildings but the same, revealing the differing tastes of the 18thCΒ Lord BangorΒ and his wife. He preferred the Georgian style and she the Gothic – so they compromised and got one side each. The sunken garden is also a treasure Β – walled and off to the center. One of the Best Bits of County Down, Northern Ireland.

game of thrones tour


Murlough Bay –Β Β McCool Travel

Adventurous Game of Thrones fans should definitely include Murlough Bay on their list of filming locations to visit in Northern Ireland. The steep cliffs and fields appear in several seasons of the show and the drive to reach the bay is absolutely spectacular. Take the Torr Road, a scenic drive off the main Causeway Coastal Route, on a narrow, steep, and winding road with gorgeous views across the bay to Scotland. The site has appeared in Game of Thrones as the Stormlands, Slavers Bay, and the Iron Islands. A sign marks the scene where Renly and Stannis parlayed in Season 2. Murlough Bay was also the site of Theon and Yara’s ride, Sir Davos’s rescue after the Battle of the Blackwater, and the spot where Tyrion and Jorah faced slavers.Β It’s easy to see why the dramatic setting calls the show, and GoT fans, back for repeat visits.

gamer of thrones tour

game of thrones tour


Game of Thrones Scotland Locations


Doune Castle //Β Adventures Around Scotland

More than one location has been used for filming the traditional homeΒ of House Stark in Winterfell but Doune Castle in Scotland was theΒ first.Β  In the pilot episode of Game of Thrones, the scene of theΒ great feast was filmed in the hall of the 14th-century castle alongΒ with some exterior shots.

However, this is not the only claim to TV fame for this medievalΒ castle.Β  Long before Game of Thrones, Monty Python and the Holy GrailΒ was filmed here and actor Terry Jones narrates an excellent audio tourΒ revealing the history of the castle.Β More recently, Doune Castle has featured in the popular StarzΒ production of Outlander as the fictional Castle Leoch, which has
caused the visitor numbers to skyrocket even further.

Doune Castle is situated near Stirling in Central Scotland and is aΒ very popular attraction for both history and TV fans.Β  It is openedΒ all year round to the public and admission is by payment with theΒ option of hiring an audio guide.Β  The castle is occasionally closedΒ for filming so it is best to check for closure dates on the HistoricΒ Environment Scotland website before your visit.

game of thrones tour


Game of Thrones Iceland Locations


Lake MyvatΒ // Reflections Enroute

Volcanic Myvatn Lake, located in northeastern Iceland with its dark, jagged lava rocks is foreboding even in summer. The permafrost ground is squishy to walk on, and unless your waterproof boots, your feet are going to get wet. Slogging over the rounded hills and craters takes a bit of an effort, but the views are definitely worth it. While we were here, we rode Icelandic ponies, a hearty breed, short and strong. They carried us up and down the craters and around the lake doing all the hard work for us.

game of thrones tour


GrjΓ³tagjΓ‘ Cave // See Her Travel

I travelled Iceland with a huge GOT fan, so naturally we stopped at some obscure locations because of her fandom.Β  One such place happened to be the illustrious cave wherein the virginal Jon Snow loses his, erm, virtue to Ygritte.Β  The cave, actually named Grotagja, is located just east of Lake Myvatn in North Iceland and can be easily located from the main road leaving the area. The cave has a steamy hot water pool of clear mirroring water and a distinct sulphur aroma.Β  All the best for romance I guess! The cave itself is on private property, but the owners clearly know there is no way to keep GOT fans away so have embraced the visitors, but do be respectful, and there is definitely no bathing allowed.

game of thrones tour


Kirkjufell //Β Hopping Miles

Kirkjufell is one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. It totally deserves that much attention for its strategic location from Kirkjufellsfoss from where it looks like a sharp arrow head with beautiful waterfalls of Kirkjufellsfoss in the foreground. This scenic location was used in filming of Game of Thrones in more than one time in the series. First time, it was seen as β€˜The Door’ when the Children of the God were shown and the recent one was the previous series, where it was seen as β€˜Arrow Head’ mountain beyond which the Army of the dead live. So, if you are on a road trip in Iceland, then add this to yourΒ Iceland Itinerary, especially if you are a GOT fan, you should not miss this place by any chance!

game of thrones tour


VatnajΓΆkull // Happiness Travels Here

Vatnajokull featured in season 2 of Game of Thrones, the largest glacier in Europe was used for scenes shot β€œbeyond the wall”. During the winter it is possible to visit the ice-caves formed by the glacier, daylight filtering through the 1000-year-old ice creates a mesmerising aqua interior. The glacier can be experienced from about by joining a guided hike, don warm clothes and solid shoes to trek over the solid mass of ice. Or view the glacier from a boat. Cruise over the powdery blue waters of the Jokulsarlon Lagoon, and watch as huge icebergs break away from the ice cap, sending waves out across the lake as they submerge and bob back to the surface.

game of thrones tour


Vik // A Brit and A Southerner

The coastal town of Vik is the southernmost village in Iceland and is certainly one of the spectacular spots worth visiting if you are planning a road trip around the Icelandic Ring Road. Whether you are intrigued by the opportunity to admire the gorgeous Icelandic horses that gather in the nearby fields or perhaps head down to the beach to enjoy the spectacular sight of the Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks, Vik is undoubtedly a location that should be on everyone’s radar when visiting Iceland.

The nearby Reynisfjara beach is one of the most iconic around the world, primarily because of the black pebbles and basalt sea stacks that can be found in the ocean. It’s no surprise that this spectacular black sand beach was a location chosen in season 7 of the Game of Thrones. Not only can you appreciate the natural beauty of this iconic Icelandic landscape, you may enjoy a variety of wildlife sightings including puffins,Β fulmars,Β and guillemots.

In much the same vein as the rest of Iceland, Vik is famous for the natural beauty that surrounds this town. However, anyone that has visited Vik will recall the gorgeous church that sits on top of the hill overlooking the town.

game of thrones tour

game of thrones tour


Thingvellir National Park // A Brit and A Southerner

Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most historic landmarks in conjunction with being a spectacular location for geological beauty. It’s these two components that makes Thingvellir such a popular spot among visitors to the β€œLand of Fire and Ice” and likely the reason why this was chosen as a location in season 4 of the Game of Thrones.

For the historians out there, Thingvellir is known as being the site of a parliament between 930 AD and 1798. Today, visitors can take a stroll around some of Thingvellir’s iconic sites and reminisce over many decisions that likely took place on this sacred land.

If you prefer a little more adventure, the two submerged rifts – Silfra and DavΓ­Γ°sgjΓ‘ are two of Iceland’s iconic diving spots. However, if that sounds a little too chilly for you, head over to the gorgeous Oxarafoss waterfall to admire one of Iceland’s spectacular natural landmarks.

Visitors to Thingvellir likely won’t be short of things to do and we strongly recommend camping here by the lake if you are looking to save money on accommodation while exploring this beautiful country.

game of thrones tour

If you’re not a huge Game of Thrones fan, there are plenty of things to do in Iceland.


Game of Thrones Spain Locations


Osuna – Surfing the Planet

Osuna is one of the most charming towns in Andalusia, located at only 90 km from Seville (a great stop in an Andalusian road trip between Granada en Seville). It’s full of Baroque houses, especially in the historic center around the main square, Plaza Mayor, and Calle San Pedro, one of the most picturesque streets in Southern Spain. Osuna became quite famous recently when one of the most impressive scenes of Game of Thrones Season 5 was filmed in its bullfight arena from the 1900s, the Plaza de Toros. The area represented Daznak’s pit, the largest fighting pit in the city of Mereen. In the fascinating scene the Sons of the Harphy surprisingly start killing everyone in the stands and also try to attack Danerys, who manages to escape on the back of one her dragons. Β Β Β 

game of thrones tour


Almeria // Migrating Miss

AlmerΓ­a is a hidden gem in the southeast corner of Spain. It’s known for being one of the sunniest and driest places in Europe, is close to plenty of beautiful beaches and has the mostΒ amazing (free!) tapas I’ve ever tasted. The city and surrounding areas have been used in countless films and TV shows since the spaghetti western era. More recently, the Alcazaba ofΒ AlmerΓ­a, the remains of a Moorish Fortress, was used to represent Dorne. Of course, it doesn’t look exactly like it and at times is a cross between the Alcazaba and the Alcazar in Seville,Β but the views across the dry desert lands, the colourful city, and the sparkling blue Mediterranean sea will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into another world.
game of thrones tour
game of thrones tour

Girona //Β Tales of a Backpacker

Girona is a beautiful city in the Catalan region of Spain.Β  Just an hour’s drive or train ride from Barcelona, Girona also has an international airport with flights from the UK and Europe.Β  The city combines Roman ruins with medieval architecture, narrow cobbled streets and a bridge over the river designed Gustal Eiffel to create a stunning city, perfect to explore on foot.

Games of Thrones fans will recognise filming locations used for scenes in series six for King’s Landing, Braavos and Oldtown.Β  Be sure to visit PlaΓ§a dels Jurats, Calle del Bisbe CartaΓ±a, and the Arab Baths, which appear as Braavos, the magnificent cathedral which doubles as King’s Landing, and the Benedictine monastery Sant Pere de Galligants which was used as a citadel in Oldtown.

game of thrones tour

game of thrones tour


Castell de Santa Florentina // Travel-ling

Castell de Santa Florentina is better known to Game of Thrones fans as Samwell Tarly’s home, Horn Hill. Located in the small coastal town of Canet de Mar, the castle dates back to the 11thΒ century, and has been meticulously maintained by the same family for over five generations. The castle and its courtyard provided scenes for Game of Thrones (remember that tense Tarly family dinner?) in season 6. Castell de Santa Florentina opens its doors to the public on Saturdays and bookings are recommended (although the visits are only done in Catalan and Spanish). General admission is €12. The easiest way to get to the castle is by car or taxi; there is parking onsite.

game of thrones tour

game of thrones tour


Castle of Zafra // Adventure Travel Family

Recently appearing in the Game of Thrones as the Tower of Joy, a site for one of Bran Stark’s visions, the history of the Castle of Zafra is enough to convince anyone of its worth as a location in the hit series. Built in the 12th century at an elevation of 1400 metres above sea level, the castle was created on a sandstone outcrop and holds the prestigious label of remaining undefeated despite sieges. The castle is the only building for miles around so visitors either need to hire a good car or be prepared for an all-day hike! Visitors are welcome to take in the view of the castle from the outside but will need the permission of the owning family, Antonio Sanz Polo of Molina de Aragon, for permission to go inside.

game of thrones tour


Alcazar of Seville // Speck on the Globe

You may recognize the Alcazar of Seville while watching scenes from gardens of Dorne, and the Southern Spanish palace is as beautiful in person as it is on Game of Thrones.Β  The Moorish style architecture with Andalusian style gardens make for a serene space amidst the city life in Seville.Β  Be sure to take a tour so you get all the insider information as well as the benefit of not having to wait in a long line for tickets.Β  Mondays are free but they are the busiest days to visit. Β Also, keep a look out to find the Water Organ in the garden, it’s rare and has been recently restored.
This UNESCO heritage site is a mix of Spanish and Muslim design, similar to the famous building in Granada, the Alhambra.Β  The palace is still in use to this day so be sure a dignitary isn’t using the grounds in the day you’d like to tour.Β  The Alcazar is no stranger to film, Lawrence of Arabia and Kingdom of Heaven were filmed here in addition to GOT.

game of thrones tour


Cordoba // Happiness and Things

When visiting Cordoba by car, we prefer parking to the south of the city centre, just on the other side of the river. This has a couple of advantages. For example, it is much easier to find secure, free parking without the hassle of having to navigate the narrow streets of the old town. But also, when you park south of the river Guadalquivir, you enter the city of Cordoba via the old Roman Bridge, which may indeed look familiar to Game of Thrones fans. Some CGI was necessary to enhance the length of the bridge and turn it into the Long Bridge of Volantis. A walk across the pedestrianised bridge with a view of the Mezquita and the old town panorama is definitely a must-do when visiting Cordoba.

game of thrones tour


Italica // Happiness and Things

Just 9km from Seville you will find the little town of Santiponce. Santiponce was built on ruins of once a thriving Roman port town, Italica. Today, all that remains of Italica is a couple of foundations, well preserved floor mosaics, and the ruins of a stunning amphitheatre. Game of Throne fans will recognise it as the Dragon Pit which features in Season 7. With some added CGI, the former theatre which seated up to 25,000 spectators and which used to be the third largest in the Roman Empire, looks even more impressive in the show. Stil, a visit to Italica is a worthwhile day trip from Seville, no matter whether you are a GoT fan or not. More about the Amphitheatre in Santiponce (Italica) here:

game of thrones tour


Getzalugatxe // My Adventures Across The World

Located in the Basque Country, in the Bay of Biscay, Gatzelugatxe is a islet connected to the mainland by a man made bridge. The island is surmounted by a hermitage dating back to the 10th century and dedicated to John the Baptist.Β The combination of the fabulous location and of the beautiful hermitage is simply stunning, making it a must on any trip to the Basque Country.

The area where Gatzelugatxe is located can be reached by car, following road BI-631 from Bilbao, or by bus (Bizkaiabus A3524 from Bilbao to Bermeo, the bus stop is right in front of San Juan de Gatzelugatxe and is called Gatzelu Begi).

Right next to the parking lot there is a lovely restaurant with a terrace that has amazing view of the bay and of the hermitage. On its right, there’s a path that leads all the way down to the hermitage. The path is around 1.5 km long but it is quite steep and, due to the regular rain of the Basque Country, also muddy and slippery.

game of thrones tour


Cacares // Travelnuity

It’s no surprise that the Spanish town of Caceres was used as a stand-in for Kings Landing during Season 7 of Game of Thrones. Its medieval walled old town has changed little in centuries, the sheer stone walls of its century old buildings towering over narrow cobblestone streets, and 30 towers still remaining along its walls, dating back to its Moorish period. Located in the western Extremadura region, it’s only 3 hours from Madrid, but has been virtually undiscovered by tourists compared to other Spanish towns, despite its UNESCO World Heritage listing. A visit is best combined with a trip to the fortress of nearby Trujillo, also used for Game of Thrones, or as a stop on a road trip between Madrid and Lisbon.

game of thrones tour


Game of Thrones Morocco Locations


EssaouriaΒ // Along Dusty Roads

Essaouira, Morocco’s windy city is the perfect antidote to the crazy tourist hub of Marrakech – and just a couple of hours away by bus. White-washed walls with perfect accents of blue, a beautiful medina with labyrinthine streets simply made to get lost in and a wonderful harbour full of iconic azure boats, wind-hardened fishermen and photo-ops galore. Made famous by Jimmy Hendrix, tourists now flock to Essaouira to see the fictional location of Astapor, where Daenerys meets her loyal army of unsullied for the very first time.
game of thrones tour

AΓ―t Benhaddou // Reflections Enroute

Driving down the mountain highway through the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and into the Ounika Valley, our first glimpse of Ait Benhaddou filled us with awe. The red crenelated towers poking into the sky reminded us of times gone by, a magical era of caravans and camels. As well it should have, because this city was part of a trading route between northern Africa and Marrakesh. We eagerly climbed to the zenith and took in the amazing views of the old city and its environs while we sipped on Moroccan tea and the sun began to dip behind the hills.

game of thrones tour


While this isn’t a complete list of all the Game of Thrones locations, it’ll sure give you a start to making your own Game of Thrones tour. To see a complete list of all filming locations, check out this site.

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Want to read the Game of Thrones series? Here ya go!
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game of thrones tour
game of thrones tour

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Ashley Hubbard

This Post Has 37 Comments

  1. Editorial Stand

    Absolutely love Game of Thrones and really amazing to see the places they used as filming. Great post.

  2. Great theme, Ashley!!!! I want to do a GOT tour* on my next visit to Europe!!! πŸ˜€

    *Dragons sold separately

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      Thanks Raphael! I will definitely be doing a GOT tour on my next trip to Europe as well and I want a dragon too :p

  3. Crystal Collier

    I love the cinematography and the feel of the TV series, but I’ll probably never watch it. Not unless there’s a way to edit out inappropriate content. Call me old fashioned, but I’m offended by shows that proffer explicit sex, unwarranted violence and the like. If it’s not appropriate for my children to watch, chances are I’m never going to see it.

  4. FrandalF16

    Loved the post!! Nice way to see where Westeros is in Real Life! and the rest of GG R Martin’s world!

  5. Calli

    Great post! You’ll get so many random hits for this, one time I wrote a random post that mentioned Lady Gaga’s face implants and our hits went through the roof.

    Now that we’ve been to many of these locations – Malta, Dubrovnik, Iceland, Ireland off the top of my head – we watch the series differently, trying to pick out all the places we recognize. It’s a nice distraction from all the killing πŸ™‚

    Travis will love this post, I’ll have to share it with him.

  6. Leslie

    I’ve never seen GOT, but I would definitely be interested in going to the places they film:)

  7. Corinne

    We’re in Dubrovnik right now, and this morning photographed a view very similar to the one above. I would love to go to the Dark Hedges! Cool theme. I love GOT, too!

  8. Serena

    So interesting!!
    I’m a huge GoT fan; I will note these down.
    And maybe one day I’ll be able to make a GoT tour πŸ˜€ πŸ˜€

  9. MCV EGAN

    I have been to Iceland and Morocco, Ireland, but not the North….Oh yes money and time permitting I would so travel somewhere I fell in love with on film. but I must be the one person on earth not watching Thrones, I guess I’ll Binge watch this coming summer and catch up with the world ! I simply went with Gourds for #a2zchallenge at http://4covert2overt.blogspot.com/

  10. I have to admit that I’ve never even watched a single episode, but after showing me all the sceneries, I may have to start! Would love to do a tour of all the different locations filmed!!!!

  11. Who would have thought that one programme would have so many locations – I think I would like to work on that one. Just think all of the travelling you would get to do! πŸ™‚

  12. Sabrina A. Fish

    I would love to plan a vacation around these locations! They are so beautiful in the show, I’d love to see them in real life!

  13. jenny@atasteoftravel

    When we were in Croatia everyone was talking about the Game of Thrones and where the series had been filmed. I was a bit out of the loop not having seen the show but since then I have watched a few episodes. The photo of the girl in AΓ―t Benhaddou was on the other night!

  14. peppylady (Dora)

    Never seen game of thrones. Sound like a interesting show. I’ll check our local library for the cd.
    My mom side of family came from Antrim county of Ireland.

    Stop over from A to Z challenge.
    Coffee is on

  15. Birgit

    I don’t get HBO so I have not seen the series but I know I would enjoy it as it incorporates fantasy and great writing and great scenery. I like that you visited these areas

  16. Donna Amis Davis

    Great idea for G! While I’m visiting from the A to Z challenge I noticed how you made your photo attributions a link that says ‘source’. I like that idea and think I’ll do that, too. Thanks!
    Donna On Palawan @ Quintessential San Diego From A to Z

  17. Stephanie

    I can’t believe I missed this post yesterday! I love Game of Thrones and they have done a fantastic job bringing the locations to life. In particular, I’m looking forward to seeing Braavos brought into reality. πŸ™‚

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      Thanks Stephanie! I love the different locations they use as well – they do a great job!

  18. LOVE this post. Game of Thrones if one of my favourite TV shows and part of the reason is the gorgeous places it’s photographed. Of course fantastic writing and acting doesn’t hurt either.

  19. Sammi

    I haven’t watched any Game of Thrones- I just got the book series for my birthday, and I am a believer in reading the series before watching it. But this was super interesting πŸ™‚

  20. eemusings

    GoT seriously has the BEST filming locations. Pingvellir really is amazing and I’m pretty sure I saw it in the background in S3E1!

  21. I’m totally nerding out now. I want to go to ALL the places! Love GoT and can’t wait to see what season 5 will bring!

  22. Enola of Game of Hodor

    I have never been to a TV series location and I guess this would be the first. For starters I would love to visit Northern Ireland especially the dark hedges. Those trees are really majestic and I hope to see them in person.

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      I’m going to be there next week! Absolutely can NOT wait!

  23. Kim-Ling

    As a massively obsessed Game of Thrones fan, I loved reading and seeing the different locations that I haven’t visited… yet πŸ˜‰ It’s one of my dreams to be able to visit all of the significant locations they filmed GoT, so this will be a great aid for my future travel planning. πŸ™‚ Thanks for including us too!

  24. Julie McCool

    Happy to contribute our Murlough Bay tips and pics to your guide. It was fun planning our Northern Ireland drive around GoT sites.

  25. Juliann

    I’d love to visit Croatia, but not because of Game of Thrones. My son and daughter-in-law would love that aspect. Your pictures are stunning. Fan or not, who wouldn’t want to visit after reading about all these places?

  26. Jenn and Ed Coleman

    What an EPIC POST. Well done Ashley. It’s really cool to see the real life filming locations because it helps bridge the gap between R.R. Martin’s imagination and the real Europe he drew inspiration from. I always imagined King’s Landing as London in my mind and could never understand all of the Mediterranean filming locations.

    Where have I been that movies have been filmed….
    Tikal – I could imagine the Millennium Falcon flying over the temples in the jungle. Especially Temple 4.
    Central High School – going for obscure but Teachers is one of the few films made in Columbus Ohio and Central High School is now the new home of the local science center COSI which I used to love.
    Trona Pinnacles. Captain Kirk makes his gun first and blows up the lizard alien.
    All of Ridgecrest California. When I used to fly into Inyokern every wall in the airport was filled with movie posters of the films they made there. Of course. To be fair, it was a very small airport. Baggage claim was a folding table next to the runway. Tremors is the only film I can remember. Since Tremors was filmed in that tiny town, I bet my Bacon number is 2 but I can’t prove it.
    My kiddo goes to Santa Cruz and if there’s one thing I can’t stomach about Santa Cruz is all of the vampires. I was having total Lost Boys flashbacks when I went to visit.

  27. Susan

    This is such a cool post! All these locations feel epic and cinematic just by looking at them. Would be so amazing to see some of them in person.

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      Right? The location specialist definitely did a good job finding spots!

  28. Cat

    It would be really cool to go on a GOT tour one day. Grjotagja Cave is one that I want to see in person. The water is just so calm and blue!!

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      I also really want to see the cave – and all of Iceland honestly! πŸ™‚

  29. Ann

    This is an Epic a list as the GOT series of books AND the television show. Impressive and thorough coverage of where to go for each specific area used in so many of the shots. Love Game of Thrones, and I really enjoyed your post.

    1. Ashley Hubbard

      Thanks Ann! There’s still so many not on this list either :O

  30. Aditi Kapoor

    Awesome article! We have visited few of them in Croatia. Being die-hard GoT fans, need to visit the rest of them asap! Thanks again.

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