When Game of Thrones concluded its epic eight-season run in the spring of 2019, fans worldwide mourned the departure of iconic characters and the fantastical realm of Westeros. However, the magic of Game of Thrones extends beyond the screen and into our world, as many breathtaking filming locations are real places you can visit. From the dramatic landscapes of Iceland to the historic castles of Spain and Croatia, journey with us to explore the real-world settings that brought the Seven Kingdoms to life. If you’re wondering, Where Is Game Of Thrones Filming Locations, you’re in for a treat.
Game of Thrones famously utilized on-location filming across Europe to create its immersive world. While studio sets in Belfast, Northern Ireland, were crucial for interior scenes, the exterior shots that define the series often feature stunning real-world landscapes and ancient structures.
Remember the imposing Winterfell, home of House Stark, from the pilot episode? Those scenes were filmed at the majestic Doune Castle in Scotland. And who could forget Daenerys Targaryen’s wedding to Khal Drogo in the first season? This memorable event took place at the Azure Window in Malta, a natural limestone archway, sadly now collapsed into the Mediterranean Sea. But this is just the beginning. Prepare to add these incredible Game of Thrones filming locations to your travel bucket list.
1. Old Town Dubrovnik, Croatia: Stepping into King’s Landing
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: King’s Landing
Dubrovnik’s Old Town, with its impressive medieval walls, became instantly recognizable as King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, from the second season onwards. The show’s popularity dramatically boosted tourism to this Croatian gem. Fans can immerse themselves in the Game of Thrones universe with guided walking tours that navigate the city’s iconic spots. Walk the Jesuit Staircase near St. Ignatius of Loyola Church, the very steps where Cersei Lannister’s infamous “Walk of Shame” scene was filmed. Visit Fort Lovrijenac, the real fortress that served as the setting for the epic Battle of Blackwater.
For panoramic views of King’s Landing, ascend the City Walls to the Minčeta Tower, which doubled as the House of the Undying in Qarth. Don’t forget to grab a photo on a replica Iron Throne at a local souvenir shop on Boškovićeva street. Beyond Dubrovnik, Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, also contributed to King’s Landing exteriors. A short drive north of Split, Šibenik, another historic Croatian city, stood in for the Free City of Braavos in the show’s fifth season.
2. Fort Manoel, Malta: Reliving Ned Stark’s Fate in King’s Landing
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: King’s Landing
Fort Manoel in Malta provides a somber backdrop to one of Game of Thrones‘s most shocking early moments: the execution of Ned Stark. In the series, this pivotal scene takes place in a King’s Landing square, but in reality, it was filmed at the 18th-century Fort Manoel. Built under Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena, this star-shaped fortress played a role in historical events, including Napoleon’s invasion and World War II. While currently undergoing restoration and temporarily closed, Fort Manoel typically offers free admission, allowing visitors to step back into this crucial scene from the series.
3. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland: Journeying Beyond the Wall
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Beyond the Wall
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland embodies the wild and untamed lands “Beyond the Wall” in Game of Thrones. The park’s dramatic frozen lakes, stark lava fields, and snow-covered craters perfectly captured the uncharted territories roamed by wildlings and White Walkers. Located east of Reykjavík, this protected wilderness required CGI enhancement to fully realize the “Land of Always Winter,” but the raw, natural beauty is undeniably real.
Explore the massive glaciers, ice caves, and geothermal areas within Vatnajökull National Park that served as filming locations. Other nearby Icelandic locations used in Game of Thrones include Myrdalsjokull glacier, Hverfjall volcano, and the Grjótagjá geothermal hot spring, offering a comprehensive Game of Thrones Icelandic experience.
4. Alcázar of Seville, Spain: Exploring the Water Gardens of Dorne
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Water Gardens of Dorne
The Alcázar of Seville, a stunning 700-year-old Andalusian palace, transported viewers to the Water Gardens of Dorne, the serene seat of House Martell, in Game of Thrones season five. Known as the Royal Alcázar of Seville in real life, this UNESCO World Heritage site is Europe’s oldest royal palace still in use, with the upper chambers serving as residences for the Spanish royal family.
Admire the palace’s exquisitely detailed Mudejar architecture, a testament to Moorish artistic influence. Guided tours are available for the public, allowing both Game of Thrones enthusiasts and architecture lovers to appreciate the lavish grounds and imagine themselves in the Dornish court.
5. Bardenas Reales, Spain: Riding Through the Dothraki Sea
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Dothraki Sea
The otherworldly landscapes of Bardenas Reales Natural Park in northern Spain became the vast Dothraki Sea in Game of Thrones season six. This Mars-like terrain served as the backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen’s captivity by nomadic horse tribes. Spanning 100,000 acres in the Navarre region, bordering Basque Country, these arid badlands can be explored by car, foot, or bike. For a contrast, some Dothraki Sea scenes were also filmed in the lush Glens of Antrim in Northern Ireland, highlighting the diverse environments used to portray Essos.
6. Dunluce Castle, Ireland: Visiting the Iron Islands
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Iron Islands
To witness the rugged harbor where Theon Greyjoy returned to the Iron Islands, journey to Ireland’s dramatic northern coast. Dunluce Castle in County Antrim, about two hours north of Dublin, provided the setting for these pivotal season two scenes. Nearby Ballintoy Harbor, a short drive east, also featured in Iron Islands sequences.
While Dunluce Castle’s real-life ruins are impressive, remember that the imposing House Greyjoy castle of Pyke was significantly enhanced with CGI for Game of Thrones. Let your imagination fill in the gaps as you explore this atmospheric location.
7. Meteora, Greece: Imagining the Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: The Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn
While Game of Thrones wasn’t directly filmed at Meteora, Greece, this UNESCO World Heritage site inspired the breathtaking backdrop for the Eyrie, the mountain fortress of the Vale of Arryn. The region’s iconic mountaintop monasteries were digitally integrated into the series’ first season as the setting for the Sky Cells where Tyrion Lannister was imprisoned.
Experience the awe-inspiring views of these natural rock formations by hiking, biking, or rafting through the valley in northern Greece, easily accessible by train from Athens. Though not a direct filming location, Meteora offers a tangible connection to the majestic and isolated Eyrie.
8. Essaouira, Morocco: Exploring the Slave City of Astapor
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Astapor
Essaouira, a captivating port city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is instantly recognizable to Game of Thrones fans as Astapor, the ancient city of slave-soldiers, the Unsullied. Beyond its GOT fame, Essaouira offers fresh seafood, argan oil production, world-class kitesurfing, and a UNESCO-listed 18th-century medina brimming with artisan shops.
Wander through the medina’s historic streets and soak in the atmosphere of Astapor. Essaouira provides a rich cultural experience alongside its Game of Thrones connection.
9. Castle of Zafra, Spain: Unveiling the Secrets of the Tower of Joy
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Tower of Joy
Castle of Zafra in Guadalajara, Spain, was the setting for one of Game of Thrones‘s most pivotal and revealing flashback scenes: the Tower of Joy. Here, Bran Stark’s vision unveiled the truth about Jon Snow’s parentage. Located in the Sierra de Caldereros, about two hours east of Madrid, this 12th-century castle is accessible by car from Hombrados or via a scenic hike.
Visiting Castle of Zafra allows fans to stand in the very spot where a game-changing secret was revealed, deepening their connection to the Game of Thrones narrative.
10. Šibenik, Croatia: Walking the Streets of Braavos
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: The Free City of Braavos
Šibenik, another Croatian gem on the Adriatic Coast, stepped in as Braavos, the wealthiest and arguably most powerful Free City in Essos, during Game of Thrones season five. While the House of Black and White interiors were studio-built, Šibenik’s historic stone alleyways, plazas, and buildings authentically portrayed Braavos’s exterior.
The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik, a 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the imposing Iron Bank of Braavos, the GOT universe’s most influential financial institution. Explore Šibenik to immerse yourself in the world of Arya Stark’s Faceless Men training.
11. Grjótagjá Lava Cave, Iceland: Discovering Jon Snow and Ygritte’s Romantic Grotto
Game of Thrones In-Universe Location: Site of Jon Snow and Ygritte’s Tryst
Grjótagjá Lava Cave in northern Iceland provided the intimate setting for Jon Snow and Ygritte’s romantic encounter north of the Wall in Game of Thrones season three. This cave, near Lake Mývatn, contains a thermal hot spring, though swimming is prohibited.
Reaching Grjótagjá Lava Cave is an adventure in itself, considered one of Iceland’s more challenging destinations. The cave entrance can be elusive in foggy conditions and requires a hike from Dimmuborgir. Despite the challenges, visiting this location brings fans closer to a memorable and passionate scene from the series.
Embark on Your Game of Thrones Journey
These eleven locations are just a starting point for exploring the real-world Game of Thrones universe. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, enhanced by its connection to the beloved series. Whether you are a die-hard fan or simply a traveler seeking remarkable destinations, consider tracing the footsteps of your favorite Game of Thrones characters and discover the magic of these filming locations for yourself.
