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16 Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life

As we impatiently wait for the final season of Game of Thrones —mark your cal for Sunday, April 14th—we couldn’t help but hype ourselves up with a look into the real-life destinations that serve as the fantasy epic’s backdrop. From seaside Croatian villages and rolling Irish countryside to verdant Spanish gardens and volcanic Icelandic lakes, this is where our favorite fictional characters live, breathe, scheme, and—a ll-too-often —die.

*Beware: spoilers will be dropped*

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Dubrovnik, Croatia — King’s Landing

The narrow cobbled streets, baroque staircases, Renaissance squares, Romanesque stone gates, and medieval fortified city walls of Dubrovnik ’s Old Town were tapped to serve as GoT’s seaside capital of the Seven Kingdoms—King’s Landing. Home to the Iron Throne, Red Keep (the fortress residence of the King of Andals and the First Men), and an intimidating number of Lannisters, the real-life-Adriatic-gem-turned-fictional-royal-Westeros spot has enjoyed quite a bit of screen time throughout the seasons.

Doune Castle, Scotland — Winterfell

Although GoT later took to filming its Winterfell scenes in Northern Ireland, this 14th-century medieval castle serves as the original House Stark stronghold in the pilot episode—AKA the scene of Bran’s death-defying fall. PS: Game of Thrones wasn’t the first major production to tap Doune as a location; Outlander also used the estate as a stand-in for their fictional Castle Leoch, and the cult classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail did the majority of their filming there.

RELATED: The Most Magical Castle Hotels in Scotland

The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland — Kingsroad

This one should be real easy. Ballymoney’s beech tree-lined avenue is the real life Kingsroad, after all. But before the tunnel of intertwined, knotted branches was forged by Arya Stark and nearly everyone else in the Seven Kingdoms, it functioned simply as a statement entrance to the Stuart family’s private manor, Gracehill House .

The Alcazar, Seville, Spain — The Water Gardens of Dorne

Seville ’s iconic Alcazar can be seen in season 5 as Jamie and Bronn head out to the Water Gardens of Dorne—the private residence of the House Martell—in search of Myrcella. Across a handful of episodes, we catch peeks of the Alcazar’s Mudéjar architecture, sunken gardens, arcade pavilions, Moorish arches, and gilded ceilings.

RELATED: 7 Incredible Places to Visit in Southern Spain

Plaza de Toros, Osuna, Spain — The Fighting Pit of Meereen

Scratching your head for when you could have spotted Osuna’s Plaza de Toros? That’d be season 5, episode 9, when Khaleesi, the Mother of Dragons, oversees a bout at Daznak’s Pit—Meereen’s premier fighting pit. IRL, the Andalusian bullring was inaugurated in 1904 and remains the pride of Osuna.

Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland — Vaes Dothrak

The Mourne Mountains have shown up quite a few times throughout GoT’s run, but the most recognizable scene is likely in season one when Khal Drogo travels east with his new bride, Daenerys. As they pass under the bronze Horse Gate to Vaes Dothrak—in the shadow of the fictional Mother of Mountains—if you keep your eyes peeled you’ll actually spot the Mourne Mountains’ Slievemageogh peak.

RELATED: 7 Tours of Ireland You NEED to Take

Essaouira, Morocco — Astapor

In Daenerys’ cross-season quest to reclaim the Seven Kingdoms and free all the enslaved in the city-state’s of Slaver’s Bay, she makes her way to Astapor—real-life Essaouira —to buy the Unsullied, an army of trained and tortured soldiers. The coastal Moroccan town was a shoo-in thanks to its seafront ramparts, cannon-lined fortified walls, and narrow streets that mix African and European architectural styles.

Skaftafell National Park, Iceland — Beyond the Wall

Located in Iceland’s rugged Vatnajökull National Park , Skaftafell is known for its enormous glaciers, surging waterfalls, snowcapped mountain peaks, black basalt columns, and sharp cliff-faces. Beyond the Wall scenes filmed in seasons two and three (think anything involving Jon, Ygritte, and the Night’s Watch) captured the dramatic scenery.

RELATED: 10 Epic Stops on a Road Trip Down Iceland’s South Coast

Girona, Spain — Braavos

The Catalan city of Girona features in quite a few season six episodes. Its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter (replete with watchtowers), Roman fortress remains, Arab bathhouses, and Benedictine abbeys set the scene for fictional Braavos—the city where Arya learns how to become one of the Faceless Men at the House of Black and White.

Klis, Croatia — Meereen

Venture just 20 minutes north of Split and you’ll land in Klis, a Dalmatian village built around a commanding mountain fortress that served as the royal seat of many Croatian kings. In season four, the craggy landscape sits in as Meereen, one of the three city-states of Slaver’s Bay.

Grjótagjá, Iceland — Jon and Ygritte’s Love Grotto

Things don’t often go right for Jon Snow. So when against all odds, he captured himself a Wildling and fell in love in season two, we feared what would happen next. But before anything else bad could go down, Jon and Ygritte cozy up for a night in Grjótagjá, an Icelandic lava cave known for its deep-blue thermal bath.

Minceta Tower, Dubrovnik — House of the Undying

As the highest point of Dubrovnik’s city walls, this 14th-century tower once served as a key defense fortress. In the Game of Thrones realm, the stronghold functions as Qarth’s House of the Undying (AKA where Dany’s dragons are held captive).

RELATED: The Best of Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian Coast

Lovrijenac Fortress, Croatia — The Red Keep

Often referred to as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar,” this limestone, 11th-century fortress was deemed fit to depict the Red Keep—the private residence of the King of the Andals and the First Men.

Castle Ward, Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland — Winterfell

Throwing it way back to season one, Castle Ward was one of the first locations viewers ever laid eyes on. That’s because it made a cameo as Castle Winterfell, the OG residence of House Stark and capital of the North. The 18th-century mansion and farmyard hosts GOT-themed tours where you can try your aim and arm at the Winterfell Archery Range .

Ballintoy Harbour, County Antrim, Ireland — the Iron Islands

The rural fishing village of Ballintoy Harbour was chosen by GoT location scouts to depict the Iron Islands—the smallest Westerosi region and home of Theon Greyjoy. The coastal village is all quaint parishes, postage-sized shops, and rich maritime history.

Fort Manoel, Malta — The Great Sept of Baelor

Season one delivered one of the series’ most pivotal and hard-to-watch moments: Ned Stark’s execution. Malta ’s Fort Manoel—an 18th-century military fortification—served as the Great Sept of Baelor, King’s Landing’s religious headquarters and the location of GOT’s first major mic drops.

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Here Are 11 Game of Thrones Locations You Can Visit

The hbo series is as revered for its heart-wrenching plot twists as it is for its stunning filming locations. the good news: the tales might be fictional, but these destinations are not..

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When Game of Thrones aired its eighth and final season in spring 2019, diehard fans had to bid farewell to beloved recurring characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, Arya Stark, and for some, even Jaime Lannister. Luckily, the real-life GOT destinations, many of them national parks or UNESCO World Heritage sites, are places you can actually see. From frozen lava fields in Iceland to centuries-old palaces in Spain , here are 11 Game of Thrones filming locations you can (and should) visit.

Where was “ Game of Thrones” filmed?

Game of Thrones was filmed primarily on location across Europe. Although various scenes were shot on studio sets in Belfast, Northern Ireland , many major moments from the HBO hit drama feature real landscapes and medieval fortresses in the backdrop.

In the pilot episode, for example, scenes at Winterfell, the Stark family home, were shot at Doune Castle in Scotland . During the first season, fans also see a young Daenerys marry Khal Drogo at the (now collapsed) Azure Window in Malta , a famous natural limestone archway that collapsed into the Mediterranean Sea in 2017. Here are a number of other Game of Thrones filming locations to put on your “want to go” list.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is protected by stone walls completed in the 16th century.

Photo by Guilleon/Shutterstock

1. Old Town Dubrovnik, Croatia

Game of Thrones in-universe location: King’s Landing Dubrovnik’s Old Town first appeared on screen as “King’s Landing” during the second season of Game of Thrones . Since then, GOT -inspired tourism to the medieval walled city has skyrocketed . Visitors can meander through the capital of the Seven Kingdoms on a GOT -themed walking tour , passing the steps of Old Town’s magnificent St. Ignatius of Loyola Church (the site of Cersei Lannister’s brutal “walk of shame”) as well as Fort Lovrijenac, the real-life fortress where filming of the epic Battle of Blackwater took place. Several King’s Landing exteriors were also filmed in Split, the largest city in Croatia’s Dalmatia region, some three hours north of Dubrovnik by car. (About one hour up the coast from Split, the historic city of Šibenik appears in show’s fifth season as the real-life filming location for the Free City of Braavos.)

Fort Manoel in Malta plays the town’s square in King’s Landing where Ned Stark was executed.

Photo by Karina Movsesyan/Shutterstock

2. Fort Manoel, Malta

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Kings Landing

One of the most heartbreaking—and shocking—turns of events to happen early in Games of Thrones is when Ned Stark is executed for discovering Jaime and Cersei Lannister’s scandalous secret. In the series, Stark is beheaded in a square in King’s Landing, but in real life, that square is actually Fort Manoel in Malta. Constructed in the 18th century under the rule of Portuguese Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena (the building is named for him), the star-shaped fort could hold 500 soldiers in its heyday and saw action during Napoleon’s invasion of Malta in 1798 and during World War II. The fort is temporarily closed for restorations (a reopening date has not yet been set), but admission is normally free.

Vatnajökull is the most voluminous ice cap in Iceland and one of the largest glaciers in Europe.

Photo by Shutterstock

3. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Beyond the Wall On Game of Thrones, the frozen lakes, icy lava fields, and snow-filled craters located beyond Castle Black and “North of the Wall” are the uncharted territories that wildlings and White Walkers roam. In real life, however, this vast tundra is Vatnajökull National Park, a protected wilderness east of Reykjavík . Although it required a fair amount of CGI to create the “Land of Always Winter” that GOT fans see on screen, the massive glaciers, ice caves, and active geothermal areas used as filming locations for the show are places you can actually visit in Vatnajökull National Park, and the landscapes are about as natural as it gets. (Other Game of Thrones filming locations near Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park include the Myrdalsjokull glacier, the Hverfjall volcano, and the Grjótagjá geothermal hot spring.)

The Alcázar of Seville is fortified palace composed of zones constructed in different historical stages of architecture.

Photo by Anibal Trejo/Shutterstock

4. Alcázar of Seville, Spain

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Water Gardens of Dorne During the fifth season of HBO’s hit TV show, this 700-year-old Andalusian palace appeared as the Water Gardens of Dorne, seat of the House Martell of Sunspear. Known in real-life as the Royal Alcázar of Seville , this UNESCO World Heritage site is recognized as Europe’s oldest still-in-use royal palace (the upper chambers are residences for Spain’s royal family). The intricately detailed building in Seville is also considered one of the best-preserved examples of Mudejar (Moorish-style) architecture. Luckily for GOT and architecture fans alike, the lavish grounds are open to the public for guided tours.

Bardenas Reales’s abstract landscape is the result of centuries of erosion to the soil’s clay, chalk, and sandstone.

Photo by Noradoa/Shutterstock

5. Bardenas Reales, Spain

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Dothraki Sea During GOT ’s sixth season, Daenerys Targaryen (the Mother of Dragons) is held captive by nomadic horse tribes in the expansive Essos grasslands known as the Dothraki Sea. To film these scenes, the show’s cast and crew members traveled to a Mars-like landscape in northern Spain known as Bardenas Reales Natural Park. These arid badlands stretch some 100,000 acres across the country’s Navarre region bordering Basque Country and can be explored by car, foot, or bike. (Some scenes from the Dothraki Sea were also filmed at Northern Ireland’s lush Glens of Antrim. )

“Game of Thrones” tours are now offered in many parts of Ireland; much of the show was filmed in locations across the country.

Photo by Amedeo Lunco/Shutterstock

6. Dunluce Castle, Ireland

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Iron Islands To visit the harbor where Theon Greyjoy first returned from Winterfell to the Iron Islands, head to Ireland’s moody, rugged coast. Some of those pivotal season two scenes were filmed at Dunluce Castle in County Antrim, about two hours north of Dublin. (Ballintoy Harbor, located about 20 minutes east of Dunluce Castle by car, was also used to film Iron Islands scenes.) Still, don’t expect to see an exact replica of House Greyjoy’s towering castle at Pyke; you’ll have to use a bit of imagination: The structure was heavily embellished before it appeared on Game of Thrones.

In Meteora, Greece, 11th-century monasteries sit atop towering natural pillars.

Photo by Akugasahagy/Shutterstock

7. Meteora, Greece

Game of thrones in-universe location: the eyrie in the vale of arryn.

The GOT cast and crew didn’t actually shoot scenes at this UNESCO World Heritage site. However, Meteora’s famed mountain-top monasteries were digitally mastered into the series’s first season as a backdrop for the Sky Cells where Tyrion Lannister was imprisoned. Travelers are free to catch remarkable views of these natural pinnacles by hiking, biking, or rafting through the northern Greece valley, which is reachable by train from Athens .

Essaouira’s walled medina (formerly known as Mogador) is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Photo by Olga Kot Photo/Shutterstock

8. Essaouira, Morocco

Game of thrones in-universe location: astapor.

Essaouira is most familiar to Game of Thrones fans as the ancient city of Astapor, home of the highly skilled slave-soldiers known as the Unsullied. In real life, Essaouira is a port city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast recognized for its fresh seafood, traditional argan oil production, and world-class kitesurfing, as well as its UNESCO-inscribed 18th-century medina filled with local artisan shops.

The Castle of Zafra sits at an altitude of 4,600 feet in Spain’s Sierra de Caldereros.

Photo by Pedro Oliva/Shutterstock

9. Castle of Zafra, Spain

Game of Thrones in-universe location: Tower of Joy One of the most revelatory moments in GOT history takes place during a flashback at the Tower of Joy. (Spoiler alert: The supernaturally gifted Bran Stark sees a vision of his father, Ned Stark, and learns a game-changing detail about a vital character’s familial past.) This fundamental scene was filmed at the Castle of Zafra in Guadalajara, Spain. Located in the Sierra de Caldereros about two hours east of Madrid , this 12th-century castle can be reached by vehicle from the village of Hombrados—or by a few hours of hiking.

s10. Šibenik, Croatia

Game of Thrones in-universe location: The free city of Braavos

In the fifth season of Game of Thrones , Arya Stark begins training to become a Faceless Man in Braavos, the richest, and arguably, most powerful Free City in Essos. Although scenes set in the House of Black and White (the temple in the city dedicated to the Many-Faced God) were filmed on a soundstage, the historical Croatian city of Šibenik on the Adriatic Coast, with its stone-walled alleyways, plazas, and buildings, played Braavos. The Cathedral of St. James , built in the 15th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the Iron Bank, the most influential financial institution in the GOT universe.

Though it may look enticing, swimming is not allowed in the hot springs of Grjótagjá Lava Cave.

Photo by Borkovec/ Shutterstock

11. Grjótagjá Lava Cave, Iceland

Game of Thrones in-universe location: The site of Jon Snow and Ygritte’s trist

In the fifth episode of the third season of Game of Thrones , Jon Snow and Ygritte spend a steamy night together north of the Wall in a cave. In real life, that cave is located in northern Iceland, near Lake Mývatn, and contains a thermal hot spring. But be forewarned: the Grjótagjá Lava Cave is one of the most difficult destinations to travel to in Iceland. The mouth of the cave can be difficult to spot in fog and can only be accessed after traversing a hiking trail from Dimmuborgir. Visitors are also not allowed to enter the hot springs.

A version of this article originally appeared online in April 2016; it was updated on May 11, 2020, and on July 31, 2023, to include current information.

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The Ultimate Guide to 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations Around the World

Let HBO's most popular television series be the inspiration for your next trip.

HBO's Game of Thrones is lauded for the lush, world-building, visually stunning way production designers (and, you know, wig experts) brought George R.R. Martin's rich, complicated world to life. The story is, after all, a study in mind-blowing landscapes: frigid wastelands and forests beyond the Wall, the amply treed Kingsroad, turquoise waters across the Narrow Sea, and the sunny medieval King's Landing, to name a few.

While many of GoT's recurring sets (like the Iron Throne) were filmed at Paint Hall studios in Belfast, the show was largely filmed on-location, primarily in Northern Ireland and Iceland for scenes in the North, and Croatia and Spain for the South. Cast members who had scenes beyond the Wall were known to film in freezing temperatures, often on lands buried in feet of snow.

With such an impressive roster of medieval cities and stunning islands on the shoot list, it should come as no surprise that GoT filming locations around Europe have attracted many, many tourists.

Allow this handy travel guide to inspire a Game of Thrones trip of your own. (Disclaimer: spoilers ahead.)

Ballintoy Harbour, Northern Ireland

Scenes on the Iron Islands, home to House Greyjoy of Pyke, were filmed at Northern Ireland's Ballintoy Harbour, known as a raised beach because the water meets a chalky cliff face instead of flat sand. Visitors will recognize the rugged surroundings as Lordsport, the port town to which Theon returns after leaving Winterfell. Though it's a place Theon likely never wants to see again, you may want to visit for the panoramic coastal views and laid-back atmosphere of Ballintoy village. It's a great side trip for those who happen to be in the area for Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's famed basalt columns less than 10 miles away.

Fort Manoel, Malta

One of the saddest scenes in all of Game of Thrones is when Ned Stark meets his end on King Joffrey's orders in a square in the fictional King's Landing. The real setting for this scene was Fort Manoel, a grand star-shaped limestone fort on the shore in Malta. Built in the 18th century, the fort remains on UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list. (GoT fans would probably argue that it should make the list based on its appearance on the show alone.)

Kirkjufell, Iceland

Scenes beyond the Wall were filmed at various locations around Iceland. One memorable scene that featured Daenerys and her dragons saving (almost) everyone from the Night King — in season seven, episode six — was filmed at Kirkjufell, one of the country's most famous peaks. The waterfall-adorned hill is lush and green in warm weather and blanketed by snow in the winter (hence how it became a filming location for north of the Wall). It's a two-hour drive from Reykjavik and easy to reach by car. It's so easy to reach, in fact, that it's believed to be the most photographed mountain in Iceland.

Other noteworthy Icelandic filming locations for beyond the Wall include Myrdalsjokull glacier, the Hverfjall volcano, and the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland. Glaciers are much harder for tourists to reach, though.

Doune Castle, Scotland

The pilot episode featuring the Stark family home of Winterfell was shot at Doune Castle in central Scotland . It's also been featured on Outlander and "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Doune Castle is about an hour and 15 minutes from Edinburgh and 45 minutes from Glasgow. The medieval structure was built during the 14th century and is known for its exceedingly high gatehouse (about 100 feet tall). Note that the castle appeared only in the pilot episode; later episodes featuring Winterfell were filmed at Castle Ward in Northern Ireland.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Though most of King's Landing was shot in a studio, some exterior shots were taken in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The Trsteno Arboretum, for example, was used for the palace gardens. The Jesuit Staircase became the steps of the Great Sept of Baelor, and St. Dominic Street is where most market scenes were filmed.

Minčeta Tower , a 14th-century fortress where Dubrovnik visitors go for views of the city and sea, served as the House of the Undying, where Daenerys is led after her dragons are stolen during her stay in Qarth.

Diocletian's Palace, Croatia

greta6/Getty Images

About three hours up the coast from Dubrovnik is Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia's second-largest city. This was the setting for the former slave city of Meereen and where Daenerys locked up and trained her dragons. The palace was built by the Roman emperor Diocletian during the fourth century and is now UNESCO listed.

Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland

Remember when the Stark boys found a litter of dire wolf puppies in the forests of Winterfell? And in the opening scene, in which rangers of the Night’s Watch find bodies in the snow? Both were filmed in the truly folkloric Tollymore Forest Park in Northern Ireland. The 1,500-acre patch of woods at the foot of the Mourne mountains was the first named state forest in Northern Ireland. Now, it sees many a GoT fan thanks to a local travel company specializing in Game of Thrones tours . At the park, you can forest bathe, pretend you're a ranger of the Night's Watch yourself, go camping, hike, and ride horses. It's located in the southwest, near the town of Newcastle.

Glens of Antrim, Northern Ireland

The Dothraki Sea — otherwise known as the Great Grass Sea — is actually in the Glens of Antrim in Northern Ireland. In real life, this would mean that the Dothraki would have technically lived next door to the Starks.

In the Glens of Antrim, you can visit the Cushendun Caves where Lady Melisandre gave birth to a "shadow" that later kills Renly Baratheon, and where the battle between Jaime Lannister and Euron Greyjoy took place. Explore waterfalls, picturesque valleys, and go searching for the Hound — this is the area where the beloved character was initially found and where he would eventually be left to die.

The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is home to some of the world's most astounding natural beauty, so it makes sense that the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees dating back to the 18th century, were used to film the grandest road in the land: the Kingsroad. The intertwining trees create a romantic tunnel that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Traveling beneath them is a must-do for anyone visiting the far north of Northern Ireland, Game of Thrones fan or not.

Basque Coast, Spain

In the show, Dragonstone Beach is home to several pivotal scenes. It happens to be where the Burning of the Seven took place, as well as the place where Dany goes home to roost in season seven. The interior of Dragonstone is filmed on a sound stage in Belfast; however, the beach, cave, and footbridge are all real and in the Basque Coast of Spain — specifically, Itzurun in Zumaia and Muriola Beach near Barrika, an hour's drive apart. Basque Country, in northern Spain, is known for its charming villages, coastal cliffs, incredible coves, and vineyards.

Grjótagjá Lava Cave, Iceland

In perhaps the sexiest scene in Game of Thrones history, Jon Snow proves he doesn't, in fact, know nothing while spending an intimate evening with his Wildling love interest Ygritte. In the show, the pair spend the night north of the Wall, but in real life, the setting of the steamy scene was actually the inside of an Icelandic lava cave containing a thermal spring. Grjótagjá is in the north, near lake Mývatn.

Though it's located right off the famous Ring Road, this cave is notoriously difficult to visit — mostly because the mouth of the cave can be tough to spot in fog or any less-than-ideal weather conditions. It can be accessed via a rocky and adventurous walking trail from Dimmuborgir. Note that bathing in the spring is not safe or permitted.

Lokrum, Adriatic Sea

Lokrum, which was used for filming scenes in Qarth, the "Greatest City that Ever Was or Will Be," is remote enough to make you feel like you're really living in the story. It's an uninhabited island in the Adriatic Sea but close enough to Dubrovnik, Croatia, to visit via a 15-minute ferry ride. The Benedictine Monastery on the island stood in for Xaro Xhaon Daxos' mansion, which can be seen in the fifth episode of the second season. Also on the island, located at its highest point, is the Fort Royal Castle, which provides incredible views of Dubrovnik across the water.

Essaouira, Morocco

Out of all the characters, Daenerys certainly travels the furthest throughout the seven kingdoms, and in season three, she heads to the Slaver's Bay city of Astapor. There, Daenerys meets the army of the Unsullied, who become her loyal allies. Principal photography for these scenes was shot in the Moroccan port city of Essaouira. In real life, Essaouira is home to a resort, a beautiful sandy beach, and, of course, a medina (market). It is mostly off the Morocco tourist circuit, almost three hours from bustling Marrakesh, which makes it all the more appealing.

Aït-Ben-Haddou, Morocco

Far from the coast of Morocco , where Astapor scenes were filmed, a historic ksar (fortified village) made of earthen clay became the setting of other Slaver's Bay scenes as well as Pentos, one of GoT's Free Cities. The real-life structure is perhaps even more storybook-like than the series could portray it — a network of walkways winds through red mudbrick walls dotted with shopfronts showcasing traditional handicrafts.

The site is now exclusively a tourist attraction, and excursions are offered from Marrakesh. The drive takes about three and a half hours, but it's worth it to see a centuries-old settlement and immerse yourself in GoT culture.

Sibenik, Croatia

Everyone's favorite Faceless Man-in-training, Arya Stark, arrives in the Free City of Braavos in the fifth season. Braavos is the wealthiest and most powerful Free City, and scenes from it were filmed in Sibenik, a gorgeous and historical city on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. When you visit, make sure to stop by the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the filming location for the most powerful financial institution in the Free World: The Iron Bank.

Seville, Spain

While watching the series, you might have found yourself gawking at the Water Gardens of Dorne, the opulent palace of the fan-favorite House Martell. The royal residence features colorful mosaics, intricate plasterwork, and stunning gardens packed with lofty palms and hedge-lined walkways surrounding its focal point, the tranquil pool. This oasis exists in real life in Seville, Spain. The Royal Alcázar was built in the 14th century for Peter of Castile. It's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bustling tourist attraction in the Andalusian capital.

Seville is also home to the town of Osuna and Plaza de Toros ("the Osuna bullring"), which stood in for Daznak's Pit, the largest fighting pit in the Slaver's Bay city of Meereen. This pit was seen in the ninth episode of season five, when Sir Jorah enters combat to fight for the Queen's honor. In real life, the building houses the Museo Taurino, a bullfighting museum.

Córdoba, Spain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Even without its link to Game of Thrones , Córdoba's Roman bridge, constructed during the first century B.C.E., is known to attract tourists from all over. Its 16 arches, based on 16 ancient Roman foundations, stretch majestically across the Guadalquivir River. The structure is a landmark in historic Córdoba and appeared in the fifth season of GoT as the Long Bridge in the Free City of Volantis.

Also featured was the Castillo de Almodóvar del Río , a castle located in the town of Almodóvar del Río just outside the city of Córdoba. In the fourth episode of season seven, this structure was the only thing that remained free of the Lannister grip after Jaime Lannister seized Highgarden, the home of House Tyrell.

Related Articles

‘Game of Thrones’ Filming Locations You Can Actually Visit

By Laura Dannen Redman and Meredith Carey

Can Game of Thrones one-up itself? The blood-and-betrayal drama about warring noble families has claimed more than 1,500 characters in seven seasons alone— the Washington Post went so far as to illustrate each death through season six—but the series manages not to feel entirely macabre, thanks largely to beautiful on-location shoots. From Seville, Spain to Croatia, Iceland , and Northern Ireland, take a tour of the series's most iconic filming locations. Just be sure to keep your sword at the ready, as there are spoilers ahead.

This gallery was originally published in 2015. It has been updated with new information.

Itzurun Beach, Zumaia, Spain (Dragonstone)

Spain features heavily is the latest installment of Game of Thrones. Take the last scenes of season seven's initial episode: Daenerys lands at Dragonstone—Dothraki warriors, Varys, and Tyrion in tow—after seasons spent across the Narrow Sea. While the nearby San Juan de Gaztelugatxe stands in for the castle's winding entry stairs, it's Itzurun Beach in the Basque Country that serves as the dragon queen's entry point to Westeros.

Kirkjufell, Iceland (Arrowhead Mountain)

Season seven isn't the first time viewers see Arrowhead Mountain. The Children of the Forest create their first White Walker in its shadow in a flashback during season six. But the freestanding Icelandic mountain makes an appearance as the backdrop to Jon Snow, Thoros, Beric Dondarrion, Sandor Clegane (better known as the Hound), Gendry Waters, Ser Jorah Mormont, and Tormund's stand against the Night King. Offscreen, it's a magical place to watch the Northern Lights and the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Added bonus: you won't have to keep an eye out for any zombie polar bears if you visit in real life.

Itálica, Spain (King's Landing Dragonpit)

The biggest character gathering in Game of Thrones history was set here, in the Roman ruins of Itálica. The production team built a platform to protect the central area of the ancient amphitheater that once housed 25,000 spectators. Now, it'll be known for hosting three Lannisters, two Targaryens, two Cleganes, two Greyjoys, two dragons, a few friends, a few foes, and a dead man walking.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Los Barruecos, Spain (Loot Train Attack)

About a three-hour drive from Madrid and near the city of Cáceres , Los Barruecos nature reserve served as the backdrop for one of season seven's most memorable episodes. Among the plains and rocky outcrops, Daenerys released her dragon against the Lannisters for the first time, leading to a jaw-dropping battle and a thrilling explainer on just how they recreated dragon fire on land.

Castillo de Almodóvar del Río, Spain (Highgarden)

Another Spanish castle made an appearance in season seven, standing in for the Tyrell stronghold Highgarden. Located about 15 miles outside Córdoba off-screen, the on-screen castle quickly finds itself under Lannister rule only minutes after we see the striking Moorish build for the first time.

Vík, Iceland (Eastwatch-by-the-Sea)

Reynisfjara, Vík's black sand beach , stand in for the castle at the farthest east side of the Wall, where the icy monolith drops into the sea. It's not the first time the beach has featured in a pop-culture darling: Planet Eadu in Star Wars' Rogue One was set in the area, which sits near the southernmost point of Iceland, about two and a half hours from Reykjavik .

Bardenas Reales, Spain (Dothraki Sea)

No, this isn't another planet . The 104,000-acre Bardenas Reales are the Spanish badlands, made up of clay, chalk and sandstone that's been molded by centuries of water and wind. Parts of the steppe offer up a little vegetation, perfect for the Dothraki Sea, which is also filmed in Ireland (Glens of Antrim) for the more lush scenes in season six.

Ballintoy Harbor, Northern Ireland (Iron Islands)

Ballintoy stands in as the harbor of the Iron Islands, where Theon Greyjoy, err, reconnects with his sister, Yara. We're sure to see a little more of the rocky Northern Irish coastline in the final season as the Greyjoys deal with their own throne usurping complications.

Castillo de Zafra, Spain (Tower of Joy)

The Tower of Joy—which plays a pivotal role in Lyanna Stark's much alluded storyline—sits between Madrid and Barcelona .

Alcázar of Seville, Spain (Dorne's Sunspear)

The crown jewel of the series's Andalusian filming locations is the Alcázar of Seville, the lavish royal palace at the center of the city. Though the palace is Seville 's biggest tourist attraction, the cast and crew got permission to shut half of it down to film crucial scenes set in Dorne, the southernmost part of the kingdom of Westeros. The Alcázar serves as the setting for Dorne's Water Palace of Sunspear, the verdant summer home of the royal Martell family.

Osuna, Spain (Daznak's Pit)

About an hour east of Seville is the small historic town of Osuna (population: about 18,000), which opened up its bullring to host a gladiator-style scene where Daenerys settles a score with Meereen slave masters. It was said to take 12 days to shoot this one scene—practically a blockbuster film's schedule—and required some 500 extras.

Šibenik, Croatia (Braavos)

Though the House of Black and White was created on a sound stage, much of Arya Stark's Braavos explorations were filmed in the stone-walled alleyways and plazas in the old town of Šibenik, Croatia.

Grjótagjá, Iceland (Jon Snow's Love Cave)

Near northeastern Iceland 's Lake Mývatn, Grjótagjá is a small volcanic cave where water in the spring can top 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It's also home to Ygritte (RIP) and Jon Snow's subterranean love scene.

Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco (Yunkai)

You'll find Yunkai, one of the Slaver's Bay city-states that Daenerys unchains with the help of the Unsullied, in the real life Ait Ben Haddou. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the 17th century city sits between Marrakech and the Sahara and was a stopping point for many a caravan heading in or out of the desert.

Vatnajökull, Iceland (Beyond the Wall)

East of Reykjavik, you'll find Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. You can see it on screen in the sweeping scenes of life (and White Walkers) Beyond the Wall. You can also dress like a GoT cast member on your next Iceland trip— here's how.

Trsteno, Croatia (King's Landing Palace Gardens)

You can perfectly picture Olenna Tyrell holding court in the King's Landing palace gardens, can't you. What you're actually seeing is the Trsteno Arboretum just about 20 minutes north of Dubrovnik.

Minčeta Tower, Dubrovnik, Croatia (House of the Undying)

The highest point along Dubrovnik's city walls, this tower stands in for the exterior of the House of the Undying in Qarth during season two. Daenerys Targaryen goes looking for her dragons inside but is kidnapped by the warlocks who, not knowing any better, get fried by the one and only Drogon.

Old Town, Dubrovnik, Croatia (King's Landing)

Game of Thrones has had a lasting impact on tourism in Dubrovnik , the stand-in for King's Landing since season two. Visitors can recreate Cersei's walk of shame down the steps in front of the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola or meander through the Pile Gate, which stands in for the entrance to King's Landing's Old Town.

Magheramorne Quarry, Northern Ireland (Castle Black & North of the Wall)

In season one, Magheramorne in Northern Ireland was the site for Castle Black, with help from plenty of CGI to make the wall look 700 feet tall; in season two, it stood in for the battlements at King's Landing. In season five, Magheramorne welcomed a newly constructed fishing village north of the Wall—where the Wildlings live, zombie-like White Walkers roam, and all rules and loyalties are forgotten. The "game of thrones" doesn't apply up here.

Dark Hedges, Ballymoney, Northern Ireland (King's Road)

Planted in the 18th century, the beech trees along this avenue in Northern Ireland have grown together to form a mysterious hedge like nothing we, or the Game of Thrones locations scouts, have ever seen. It serves as the King's Road in a few episodes through the seasons, and has become such a tourist attraction that the government has decided to ban all-but-essential vehicles from as of October 30, 2017 (but don't let that from stopping to have a look and a stroll if you're on a road trip from Belfast to the Giant's Causeway ).

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20 Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Embark on an Epic Journey Through Westeros

Ready to discover Game of Thrones Locations you can visit IRL? It’s time to embark on an epic journey into Westeros… 

Ok, so it’s now been over four years since the last season of Game of Thrones aired on HBO. Is it just me, or does it feel much longer since the final (and somewhat disappointing ) episode rolled the credits? Look, it’s zero secret to anyone who’s ever met me ever that I was (AM) obsessed with GoT. Sure, having House of the Dragon helps, though that one seems to be taking forever to roll into season two. 

Feels like there’s never been a better time to indulge in a spot of nostalgia and go back to the GOAT via the filming locations. You can tap into the magical world that George R.R. Martin created in real life? Now you’re paying attention. 

I’ve spent the greater part of the last decade discovering the epic locations that Game of Thrones was filmed in, which culminated in my visit to gorgeous Girona last month. 

Here are the shooting locations of GoT you need to have on your radar.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Have to See 

Dubrovnik, croatia.

Dubrovnik is synonymous with King’s Landing. Visit the small city in Croatia, and no matter how much you know about the show, you can’t help but feel the Westeros energy (or at least hear the GoT-themed chatter from the groups of tourists) in the Old Town. I’ve been to a host of Game of Thrones spots here, so I’ll name a few of my favourites. Or, for a more comprehensive look, book onto a guided tour or read my guide to GoT in Dubrovnik and host your own.

You’ll recognize scenes filmed in locations like Fort Lovrijenac, Pile Gate (the gateway to King’s Landing), and, of course, The Jesuit Staircase (where Cersei did the Walk of Shame). But guess what? Dubrovnik was also the set for another famous GoT location – Qarth. Rector’s Palace played as the home of the Spice King, whom Daenerys visited to borrow some ships. You might remember how that played out. 

Read Next: The Game of Thrones Guide to Dubrovnik

Fort Lovrijenac

Visit Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik to get one of the best vantage points of King’s Landing. Sure, CGI worked some magic you won’t replicate, but it’s otherwise fantastic. 

If it looks familiar, it’s where one of the quotes in the show’s history went down. You must remember when Cersei and Littlefinger discussed the meaning of power? Thought so. It’s also where they filmed the intense post-riot rape attempt of Sansa, where Hound came to her defense. One of the most tense moments in the show takes place just across from where they shot Joffrey returning to safety in the Red Keep. Talk about using the same setting for two completely different effects. 

Northern Ireland, UK

Winterfell (introduced in the earliest scenes in season 1) was the famous site of House Stark. IRL, Northern Ireland is where the scenes for Westeros’ northernmost capital were shot. 

Look, Northern Ireland is actually the most important filming location for Game of Thrones. First off, it’s home to Titanic Studios ( the studio GoT was born in), not to mention it’s home to a staggering 26 filming locations, which I lay out in full detail here . 

That said, if I had to choose a short list of must-see Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland, here it goes. 

Start your journey on the Causeway Coast, where you can visit Ballygally Castle and see one of a series of doors across Northern Ireland paying homage to the show. Then head to Cairncastle, and you’ll see the Bronze Age fort where they shot that scene when Sansa got the depressing memo that she was to marry Ramsey Bolton. Lastly, hit up the Cushendun Caves. These dark, moody caves are where that epic scene where Lady Melisandre gives birth takes place.

Lastly, you can’t leave Northern Ireland without seeing The Dark Hedges. The spooky yet super cool tree-lined path known as King’s Road is one of the most unbelievable GoT filming locations anywhere. 

Read Next: Walking in Westeros: Game of Thrones Locations in Northern Ireland

Marble Arch Cave

One Game of Thrones filming location from Northern Ireland that I just can’t get over is Marble Arch Cave. Not only is the subterranean setting near Florencecourt a perfect place to film an epic series like GoT, but it’s also open to visitors. The limestone cliffs, endless greenery, waterfalls, and caves are all reasons for the recently anointed title of a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Look closely, and you might remember the tense battle scene between The Hound and Beric, where we learned of the latter’s inability to die. Yes, that took place here.

Seville, Spain

When you think of filming locations GoT, Seville should be one of the first places that comes to mind.

Some of the most compelling cinematography took place at the gorgeous Alcázar of Seville (more on that below), Seville Shipyard and nearby Itálica. 

There are many amazing moments, but the secrets exchanged by Qyburn and Cersei in Season 7 Episode 2 and again by Tyrion and Jamie in Season 7 Episode 5 were even more dramatic in the mediaeval backdrop of the Seville Shipyard.

Alcázar of Seville

The Alcázar of Seville often shows up in lists of filming locations for Game of Thrones – for good reason. You’ll recognize a lot of familiar sights when you walk through the palace gardens, Ambassadors’ Hall, and Mercury’s Pool that show up in several seasons of GoT. My favourite in the Alcázar of Seville is the subterranean Baths of Lady María de Padilla, where the Sand Snakes devise their revenge plan in the absolutely haunting setting.

Top Tip: Book This Game of Thrones Tour with an optional trip to Osuna

The Ring Road is a must when you visit Iceland , but that rings more true when you’re a GoT fan, where many of the scenes from North of the wall were filmed. In fact, Iceland features in every single season after season one of the show! 

If you’ve seen the unforgettable basalt columns at Reynisfjara Beach, you know it’s a perfect location to film just about anything. But John Snow landing at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea in Season 7 made brilliant use of the space. Mýrdalsjökull glacier is my favourite site North of The Wall. You may remember it as the location where Sam discovers Dragon Glass.

Other memorable locations include ​​Thingvellir National Park (Hound Vs. Brienne of Tarth scene) and two of my favourite Iceland waterfalls, Þórufoss waterfall (Drogon Vs. Goat scene) and the iconic Skogafoss (the very spot where Jon and Daenerys land after flying their dragons in Season 8).

Girona, Spain

Sure, Girona is an excellent day trip from Barcelona , but did you know that it’s also home to many of the most iconic Game of Thrones filming locations?

Book a stay at Hotel Utonia and take their guided tour along the GoT Route . You’ll recognize many alleyways, cobbled streets, and staircases around Old Town. But when you walk up to the Girona Cathedral, it’s impossible not to dream up the scene when Jamie Lannister makes his way up the iconic staircase on his way to the Sept of Baelor. The Arab Baths are another Game of Thrones film location that every serious fan needs to see in person. The 12th-century baths show up more than once as the Baths of Braavos on the show (so cool).

Walking the city streets, you also may remember sites like Bishop José Cartañà Street when Arya tried to escape Braavos after temporarily going blind.

Trujillo Alcazaba, Spain

When you leave Cáceres, don’t miss Trujillo Alcazaba, the Moorish castle sitting high on a hill in Trujillo. This ancient castle dates back to the 13th century, and the outside is in surprisingly excellent shape – making it one of the most natural candidates for a Game of Thrones film location.

Also, season 7, episode 3 shows House Lannister under attack at this historical castle, a short day trip from Cáceres. 

San Juan de Guaxtelagaxte, Spain

If you find yourself in Basque country, do everything you can to take a day trip to San Juan de Guaxtelagaxte. You can get to the islet you may remember as Dragonstone on a guided tour, or you can take a road trip from Bilbao or San Sebastian .

When you reach the islet, you’ll start recognizing the scenery as you walk across the seemingly endless bridge winding its way up the craggy hilltop. You’ll need to purchase a ticket to enter, but when you walk along the downright mythical-feeling pathway, you can picture Daenerys arriving at her ancestral home (though the castle isn’t actually on the island IRL).

Lokrum, Croatia 

Take a day trip from Dubrovnik and explore the island of Lokrum for some GoT film locations and a chance to sit on the Iron Throne. The Benedictine Monastery of St Mary and its beautiful gardens are the real-life settings of Qarth and the party scene where Daenerys met with Xaro Xhoan Daxos. There’s also a museum on-site, where you’ll get the ultimate reward of sitting on the Iron Throne.

Bardenas Reales, Spain

One of the most compelling landscapes of any Game of Thrones filming location is at Bardenas Reales, also known to fans as the Dothraki Sea. You may remember the unearthly setting from Season 6 when Daenerys was taken prisoner in this memorable setting in Northern Spain. It actually exists and didn’t need much help from CGI.

Italica, Spain

There are plenty of amazing Game of Thrones shooting locations in Seville, but Italica deserves a spot of its own. Why? Pretty much the entirety of the Dragon and the Wolf episode took place here. Enough said? I’ll fill you in if you don’t remember the scene or haven’t seen it yet (you should). The iconic Italica Amphitheatre, which is worth a visit even if you’re not a GoT fan, is a beautiful archeological site dating back to around 200 BC.

You’ll see Italica in Season 7, Episode 7, when Daenerys flies into The Dragon Pit like a boss. It’s a lot of fun to visit in person, too.

Cordoba, Spain 

If you’re visiting Cordoba , make a day trip to Castillo Almodovar del Rio for a Game of Thrones filming location that delivers a real punch. It also has fewer crowds than more popular spots in other regions of Spain.

Castillo Almodovar del Rio is an 8th-century hilltop castle that is stunning to see in person. 

You’ll recognize the outside from a few different scenes, but the most famous was when Jamie Lannister rolled up towards Highgarden with his troops.

Cordoba is also the setting for one of my favourite Game of Thrones film locations anywhere. The Roman Bridge is the filming location for the scene where Tyrion Lannister marches towards Mereen from Pentos. The bridge dates back as far as the 1st Century BC, and you can walk across it yourself. It’s one of the most dramatic landmarks where you can relive a pivotal scene from the show one step at a time

Malta was actually in quite a few episodes of Game of Thrones. It’s no surprise if you’ve ever been here. The small island is full of amazing architecture and beautiful natural landscapes.

Some of the most famous Game of Thrones film locations shot here include St Dominic’s Convent (The Red Keep Garden) and the immaculate Gate of the Mdina (the entrance to King’s Landing in season 1).

Split, Croatia 

Dubrovnik gets a lot of the credit when fans tour Croatia to visit Game of Thrones film spots, but Split has quite a few gems of its own. Tour this amazin g city for some of the most iconic GoT locations besides King’s Landing. So what should you see when you’re here? There are a couple of gems.

Klis Fortress isn’t quite as popular as some of the other GoT film locations, which in part is most likely due to the rather challenging hike. Perched high up on the hill, you can get some of the best views of Split while images from several seasons come back to you.

The stunning Diocletian’s Palace, which was actually built way back in the 3rd century, was the location for Meereen. If that doesn’t sound familiar, remember when Daenerys made the difficult decision to cage her dragons? Tragic. That was filmed at Diocletian’s Palace, as were scenes in several other seasons.

Meteora, Greece

Remember when Tyrion Lannister was teetering on the top of the cliffs at Eyrie Castle, and that magical backdrop that looked too majestic to be an actual place? It’s real. Meteora (home of the 14th-century monasteries high above the valleys and villages of Northern Greece) is the perfect spot for a Game of Thrones film set. But this otherworldly location was dropped into the scenes via CGI, as the UNESCO World Heritage site has restrictions on visiting times and use of the land. Nonetheless, some of the scenes you see from above are the handy work of the film crew from GoT.

There are a couple of great GoT film spots in Morocco and seeing them is a pretty epic trip in the making. Essaouira , which you may better know as Astapor, is where many scenes of the Unsullied and Daenerys Targaryen were shot. The most famous scenes filmed here involved Daenerys Targaryen, including The Walk of Punishment, when she strolled along the dreadful path where enslaved people who disobeyed the laws were brutally killed in a very public fashion. Another location you need to visit is Ait Ben Haddou, where they filmed the Battle of Yunkai.

Cáceres, Spain

You already know that King’s Landing was shot in Dubrovnik. But what if I told you that’s not the full story, and there was actually a double for the iconic capital of the 7 Kingdoms? Believe it or not, season 7 moved to Cáceres, Spain, to capture the scenes with Euron Greyjoy trotting around King’s Landing on horseback. Walk around town, and you’ll recognize some famous landmarks from the show, which used the Arco de la Estrella, Plaza de Santa Maria as focal points.

Practical Tips for Exploring Game of Thrones Film Locations

• Book your trip for shoulder season, as summertime is honestly complete madness in many of the GoT film locations.
• Schedule a guided tour when visiting Dubrovnik, Split, Seville, and other locations with numerous GoT film locations to learn the most about each landmark and the scenes filmed there.
• Bring your camera and backup memory card. There are so many great photo ops at Game of Thrones spots.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Map 

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Delve Into More Game of Thrones Spots

• The Game of Thrones Guide to Dubrovnik
• Walking in the Footsteps of Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland
• Lokrum: The Tiny Island Near Dubrovnik with a Westeros-themed Secret
• Ready to Explore Girona?

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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15 Game of Thrones Locations to Visit in Real Life

22 May, 2019

W hile While conversations among friends, family, colleagues and even strangers may no longer revolve around who will kill the Night King or who will sit on the Iron Throne, it’s clear that the Game of Thrones legend will stand the test of time.

As reluctant hands exchange money from bets and sweepstakes, and fans mourn the end of what can only be called the greatest TV show of all time, there’s two ways to soothe the tears, grief – and, in many cases, severe disappointment – caused by the series’ finale. Option one is to rewatch the entire series from the beginning; the other is to visit these Game of Thrones filming locations and recreate the magic of the last eight years.

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Much of the GoT action was filmed in Croatia’s ancient city of Dubrovnik. The walled capital became the set of King’s Landing, home to the Lannister clan. Wander around the walled capital to explore the place that saw Tyrion transform from a brothel-going, drunken outcast to a revered Hand of the King, the city that saw Cersei shamed and paraded naked through the streets (those being from Dubrovnik’s St. Dominic Street to Ploče Gate ), and the city that Daenerys… don’t worry, no season eight spoilers here.

2. Castle Ward, River Quoile and Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland

Several different locations were filmed throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Head to Castle Ward to see where parts of Winterfell were shot, or River Quoile to see the ancient castle of Riverrun. Nearby, Tollymore Forest Park in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains is where the Haunted Forest was set, where Ned Stark first found the direwolf puppies, and where Ramsay Bolton chases poor Theon (back in the days of Reek). Speaking of the ironborn, the Greyjoy’s home can be found at Ballintoy Harbour and Dunluce Castle.

3. Seville, Spain

The majestic palace that is Alcázar of Seville starred as the Water Gardens of Dorne, home to Oberyn Martell, Ellaria Sand and the deadly Sand Snakes. Roam the lush gardens where Ellaria stabs Doran Martell, and the young romance of Trystane Martell and Myrcella Baratheon blossomed among the flowers.

Just outside of Seville, the ancient Roman city of Italica, birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, served as the setting for the Wight Walker reveal to Cersei by Jon Snow, Daenerys and Tyrion in the season seven finale.

4. Stirling, Scotland

The Stark’s ancestral home, Winterfell, with its snowy turrets and many towers have been integral to the GoT plot since Jaime Lannister first pushed Bran out of the tower window. Since then, epic scenes from The Battle of the Bastards and much-anticipated Long Night have taken place at Winterfell. In the district of Stirling in Scotland, the medieval Doune Castle starred as Winterfell’s original, legendary exterior.

5. Sibenik and Krka, Croatia

A short boat trip from Dubrovnik, the island of Sibenik – known as the gateway to the Kornati Islands – was the setting for Braavos and the Iron Bank. Stop by St Jacob Cathedral to admire Westeros’ wealthiest bank, dating back to 15th century and elaborately decorated with 71 sculpted, stone faces. From there zip across to Krka, where the lakes, rivers and waterfalls of the national park were transformed into the Westeros Riverlands.

6. Navarre, Spain

The arid countryside of Bardenas Reales in Navarre, northern Spain, stars as the Dothraki Sea, where the Mother of Dragons was held prisoner. Explore Navarre, a medieval Basque kingdom dotted with remote villages, including the city of Pamplona, and trek through Bardenas Reales, a wild Unesco Biosphere Reserve.

7. Lake Mývatn & Grjótagjá caves, Iceland

Jon Snow and Ygritte’s short-lived romance is one of Game of Throne’s best. The fictional couple – now married in the real world – first slept together north of The Wall, in Iceland’s geothermal Grjótagjá caves. While we wouldn’t recommend re-enacting this particular scene, the natural phenomenon is well worth a visit. The caves are located in Lake Mývatn, near the town of Akureyri and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull. The lake is where Mance Rayder and the wildlings camped while Jon and Ygritte disappeared into the caves.

8. Girona, Spain

It’s pretty much impossible not to love Samwell Tarly. The bumbling best pal of Jon Snow made his way to the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing with dreams of becoming a Maester (Gilly and little Sam in tow). Girona’s Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants provided the setting for the grand library, where Sam and Gilly first discover Jon’s true heritage. Head to Girona’s Cathedral to climb the steps where Jaime arrived in the nick of time to save Queen Margaery from her walk of atonement.

9. Castellón, Spain

Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, Queen of the Andals, Dragonstone and Meereen, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, the Unburnt, Breaker of Chains and Mother of Dragons… while Dany’s title as The Rightful Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm may seem extreme, many followed and believed in her, including Tyrion Lannister and Varys. In the sixth season, the two men walk through the streets of Meereen, filmed in the charming coastal town of Peñíscola, Castellón, Spain. Spend days lazing on the beach or explore the old town and its towering medieval castle.

10. Essaouira, Morocco

The romance of Grey Worm and Missandei gradually blossomed throughout eight series. Grey Worm first entered into Daenerys’ service when she meets the Unsullied army for the first time. The meeting was set in the beautiful seaside city of Essaouira. Amble through winding streets of the medina and the 18th-century seafront ramparts of Skala de la Kasbah.

11. Itzurun, Spain

Dragonstone plays an integral part in the last few series of the show when Daenerys finally returns here in season seven. The storied, rocky beaches can be found in the Spanish beach of Itzurun in the coastal town of Zumaia. Visit here for dramatic views and long walks along the seafront.

12. Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco

At the end of series three, Daenerys conquers the city of Yunkai, freeing the city’s slaves (yass kween) from their vicious overlords. In the real world, that city is Ait-Ben-Haddou, a mud brick city on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. If it looks more familiar than it should from one episode of GOT, that’s probably because this ancient town has featured in plenty other big screen productions, including The Mummy and Prince of Persia (if only Jake Gyllenhaal was still wandering around shirtless…). Wherever you recognise it from, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive scene, and definitely worthy of the three-hour drive from nearby Marrakech.

13. Murlough Bay, Northern Ireland

If we had to list the top ten most unnerving scenes in the series so far (there’s undoubtedly more to come), seeing Melissandre give birth to a shadow demon in a cave would be right up there. Step into the Cushendun Caves, located at the end of a narrow road on the east coast of Northern Ireland, and you can just about imagine it all going down, flickering flames and all. Visit after dark if you dare.

14. Meteora, Greece

Ok, so you won’t find the actual castle of the Eyre atop these towering stone cliffs, but they did provide inspiration for the epic setting of the jaw-dropping castle, and a backdrop for some of the scenes which took place there (even if they did have to be digitally added). Disappointment over the fact that the Moon Door isn’t real aside (errr, no, of course we weren’t thinking of tossing anyone through), a strenuous hike up to the top of the rock pillars will reward you with impressive views of the lofty landscape. If you want to recreate the entire dramatic journey to the impregnable castle up that narrow path, however, you’ll have to head back to Iceland and seek out Thingvellir National Park – maybe that dragon could come in handy after all.

15. Ballymoney, Northern Ireland

It may have only featured in one scene of Season 2, Episode 1, but this otherworldly tree tunnel called The Dark Hedges would be worth a road trip even if Arya Stark hadn’t travelled it with Yoren, Gendry and Hot Pie on her escape from King’s Landing. Planted over 200 years ago, the row of intertwined beeches lines an out-of-the-way country lane in Ballymoney, and is even more picturesque if you can catch it with an early morning mist. Speaking of early morning, that’s probably the only time of day the tunnel isn’t filled with bus loads of people (not to mention the buses they alight from), so we’d suggest getting up before dawn to see it devoid of tourists.

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6 Game of Thrones filming locations you can actually visit

May 16, 2019 • 6 min read

Dubrovnik has served as stand-in for King's Landing, the largest city of the Seven Kingdoms © S-F / Shutterstock

Our weekly dose of warring armies, unruly dragons and cunning courtiers might be soon coming to a close, but fans of the hit TV show Game of Thrones can rest easy – the show's epic filming locations are still around, and travelers can relive their favorite moments.

The places we’ve covered are great destinations in their own right and will reward fans of travel as well as Game of Thrones aficionados.

Spoiler alert: this piece does contains a few plot details from the earlier seasons, so if you aren't all caught up, turn back now. You have been warned!

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

With its gleaming white-stone city walls and sunny seaside location, Dubrovnik on Croatia ’s southern Dalmatian coast is a perfect stand-in for King's Landing, capital of the Seven Kingdoms and home to the Iron Throne.

Walking atop the old town’s remarkably well-preserved medieval walls , you can look out across the bay where the Battle of Blackwater was shot towards free standing Lovrjenac Fort, which was transformed into the majestic Red Fort. As you circle Minčeta Tower at the walls’ highest point, you’ll be following in the footsteps of Daenerys Targaryan as she desperately tried enter the House of the Undying to rescue her dragons. There are many more filming locations around here, and an organised tour will make sure you don’t miss any.

A short boat ride away, beautiful Lokrum Island , where scenes set in Qarth were filmed, has peaceful forests and excellent beaches, and makes a great day trip. There’s also a gorgeous Renaissance-style arboretum at Trsteno Gardens , 13km northwest of Dubrovnik, where Sansa Stark met with Lady and Margaery Tyrell.

Great accommodation options in Dubrovnik's old town include  Karmen Apartments and Miró Studio Apartments .

2. County Antrim, Northern Ireland

The dramatic shoreline and rolling countryside of County Antrim have provided plenty of locations for Game of Thrones. The picture-postcard village of Ballintoy was Lordsport on Pyke, the island base for the Greyjoy clan, rulers of the Viking-like Iron Islanders. Along the coast, the harbour town of Ballycastle represented the Free City birthplace of scheming eunuch Varys. Inland, Dark Hedges Road, near Ballymoney, stood in for the section of the Kingsroad along which Arya Stark fled from King Joffrey’s soldiers.

The real landscape offers just as much drama: the famous Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge are two of Northern Ireland’s star attractions, and the stunning walk along the Causeway Coast Way between the two sights takes in sea cliffs and broad sweeps of sand.

Exhausted by sightseeing? Ballintoy has a fine hostel, Sheep Island View Hostel , while the Kinbane Farmhouse is only a stone’s throw from the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. If joining the locations under your own steam seems tricky, try a tour .

3. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Iceland ’s grand, windswept landscapes form the backdrop to scenes set north of the Wall, in Westeros’s wild northern reaches. The Night’s Watch made their desperate stand against the wights at the Fist of the First Men, shot on the  Svínafellsjökull glacier in Vatnajökull National Park – which also stood in for other locations in the Frostfangs, the mountain range that covers much of the far north. Iceland as a whole has a wider role to play: in the north of the country, Lake Mývatn was where Mance Rayder’s wildling horde camped, while filming in July for Series Four captured the more temperate regions near the Wall.

Vatnajökull National Park takes up more than 10% of Iceland, and is the world’s largest ice cap outside the poles. It attracts serious hikers and climbers as well as weekenders from Reykjavik (around 250km to the west), and visitors can explore glaciers, caves and waterfalls, as well as taking interpretative forest walks and climbing Iceland’s highest mountains. There isn’t much accommodation in the park itself – the Visitor Centre Campsite in Skaftafell (the park’s popular southern section) or Magma Hotel in nearby Kirkjubæjarklaustur are options.

4. County Down, Northern Ireland

County Down is where it all began: the opening sequence of Game of Thrones, in which a patrol north of the Wall met a messy end, was filmed in Tollymore Forest Park.

Nearby Castle Ward stood in for Winterfell, home of the Starks, the sympathetic lords of the north, and Inch Abbey featured as the Riverlands, where the army of the north waited to cross the River Trident, and where Robb and Caitlin Stark learned of Ned Stark’s execution – and vowed to take revenge. All three are near appealing Newcastle, southeast of Belfast, an easy drive from the city.

Set foot in County Down, and you’ll see why the filmmakers chose it: its rugged uplands and tranquil coast form one of the province’s most appealing corners. Hikers will have a particularly fine time of it, and can walk the Mourne Mountains, whose granite hills are dotted with whitewashed cottages and yellow gorse. The Brandy Pad – an ancient smugglers’ trail – provides a great introduction, crossing the hills and Tollymore Forest Park before ending up in Newcastle.

Stay in Briers Country House or make like the Dothraki and pitch a tent at Tollymore Forest Park’s campsite .

5. Split, Croatia

For Season four, filming moved north of Dubrovnik to the coastal city of Split . Klis Fortress and a quarry in Žrnovnica, both to the northeast of the city, were used to film huge battle scenes with dozens of extras.

The primary location within the city was Diocletian’s Palace , one of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world. Built in AD 295 as a retirement palace for the Roman emperor Diocletian, the huge square fortress is no museum piece – instead it is the lively heart of the city, with bars, shops and restaurants packed inside its ancient walls. To see where filming took place, head down into the cellars at the southern end of the palace, which in Roman times were used for storage of food and wine.

If you’d like sleep like an emperor, Villa Split and  Heritage Hotel Antique Split are both within the palace walls.

6. Essaouira, Morocco

Astapor on Slaver’s Bay is the site where Daenerys Targaryen really came into her own: freeing an army of slaves, double-crossing their evil owner, then getting her dragon to blast him in the face with fire. Obviously, such high-octane action demanded a set worthy of the drama – and Morocco ’s coastal city of Essaouira , which stood in for Astapor, provided all the atmosphere you could ask for. The old sandstone ramparts and walkway appeared suitably timeless, while moments of silent tension were heightened by flags whipping in the North Atlantic breeze, and the cry of seagulls in the background.

In reality, Essaouira is one of the most laid-back places you can visit in Morocco – surfers flock here for the reliable waves , and the city is also known for its artistic streak. Small studios and galleries line many of the narrow streets, and you can pick up woodcarvings and other souvenirs for a snip - or make something yourself at a woodcarving workshop .

Stay at Dar al Bahar  for unobstructed views over the rugged coastline, perfect for sliding into a GoT-themed fantasy. Prefer to get a feel for real-life Essaouira? Try Riad Nakhla , a traditional Moroccan house surrounding a pretty central courtyard.

This article was originally published in April 2014. It was updated in May 2019.

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Where was 'Game of Thrones' filmed? Real-life locales for Winterfell Castle and King’s Landing

Television’s favorite medieval fantasy can sure look realistic. Perhaps that’s because it is! Daenerys and her dragons aside, many of the "Game of Thrones" locations are real places across Europe and Africa.

While much of the filming took place in Northern Ireland , both on location and in  a Belfast studio , other important settings like King’s Landing and Iron Island can be found elsewhere in Europe . Ahead of the highly anticipated premiere of  'House of the Dragon ', the HBO prequel arriving Aug. 21, we look at the real-life 'Game of Thrones' map.

Here's a breakdown of filming locations, some of which you can visit ! Move over, Jon Snow – tourists might be headed your way.

Is House of Dragon a prequel?: 'House of the Dragon': How 'Game of Thrones' prequel tracks Targaryen empire

Where was 'Game of Thrones' filmed?

Europe and Africa. The following regions have been used as filming locations:

• Northern Ireland 

(Despite some speculation, no "Game of Thrones" scenes were filmed in New Zealand.)

Game of Thrones next chapter: Westeros lives, onstage: 'Game of Thrones' play coming in 2023 for fans of books, HBO series

Where was   Winterfell Castle filmed?

Most of Winterfell Castle is in Northern Ireland , with the exception of one additional location at Doune Castle in Scotland .

Where was King’s Landing filmed?

In an interview for HBO , 'Game of Thrones' star Conleth Hill confirmed that the exteriors of King’s Landing   were filmed in Croatia white the interiors were filmed in Northern Ireland. However, the King’s Landing gates are in Malta and the road from the landing , the Dark Hedges, are in Northern Ireland.

Where was Iron Island filmed?

According to BBC, Ballintoy Harbour  along the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland is one of the more recognizable locations from the Iron Islands scenes. 

Where was North of the Wall filmed?

Iceland, naturally. These scenes were filmed by the Svínafellsjökull glacier, which forms part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier . Filming also took place near Lake Myvatn .

Will anything ever compete with GoT: 'The Wheel of Time' and the quest to find the next 'Game of Thrones'-sized fantasy hit

Where was Castle Black filmed?

According to Entertainment Weekly , Castle Black scenes were filmed at Magheramorne Quarry in Northern Ireland. Fun fact: many of the show’s sets were built there as well.

Just curious?: We're here to help answer life's everyday questions

Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Movies

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Where was Game of Thrones filmed you ask? We’ve got the answers. Dave and I have been to many Game of Thrones filming locations around the world and we’ve rounded up the not to miss GOT sets that you can visit right too! Once a travel destination became a part of the Game of Thrones scenery, tourists flocked to see it.

These are the top Game of Thrones locations we’ve visited in real life. Updated from our original post that only included Ireland.

Table of Contents

Where Was Game of Thrones Filmed?

Contrary to popular belief, Game of Thrones was not filmed in New Zealand . That would be Lord of the Rings, but GoT was filmed in other incredible destinations around Europe, Africa, and North America. Filming locations spanned three continents and 10 different countries with the main locations being Northern Ireland, Iceland, Croatia, and Spain.

Producers chose wisely when picking Game of Thrones scenery around the world. The backdrop of each episode is as important as the plot. If you love adding an element of entertainment into your travels you must. add these Game of Thrones settings to your bucket list. Start binge-watching today!

Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland  has the most extensive Game of Thrones scenery to explore. The main studio was in Belfast and several exterior scenes were shot around the country.

When traveling Ireland, you can pick up a Game of Thrones filming locations map at one of the tourist information offices downtown Belfast and set out on your own, or take one of the many organized tours.

1. Belfast – Titanic Studios

The magic happened in Belfast at Titanic Studios. The production offices were here and most off the studio production team was based in Belfast.

The Titanic Museum is one of the greatest attractions to Northern Ireland, and while you are there, venture a little further down the road to see the sound stages where most in-studio scenes were shot.

2. Dark Hedges – Kings Road

The first Game of Thrones scenery that really took off on social media was The Dark Hedges of Northern Ireland.

It was a short scene, but when it comes to travel, it attracted a lot of buzz. This was the scene where Arya Stark was put on a wagon and sent away to make her escape from Kings Landing in season 2.

Disguised as a boy, it is on this road where she sits gazing back while life as she knows it slips away. We can see the beautiful Dark Hedges hovering ominously overhead.

• Game of Thrones from Belfast  – This tour not only takes you to iconic GoT locations, it also stops at the legendary Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Glens of Antrim, Cushenden Caves, Ballintoy Harbour and more!

3. Castle Ward – Westeros

Castle Ward  has the most organized tours of all Game of Thrones filming locations. Everything is dedicated to enjoying your day in Westeros.

You can even dress in a fur cape and learn to shoot a bow and arrow just like Bran did when John Snow taught him in the courtyard of Season 1. Then spend the day exploring the castle grounds to see other iconic filming locations like the Hanging Tree, The Twins, and more .

• Book a Game of Thrones Day Tour to Castle Ward  – A day tour from Belfast takes you to 20 Game of Thrones filming locations: featuring, Tollymore forest park where the dire wolf pups were discovered, Castle Ward Estate, and Inch Abbey where Rob Stark was crowned King of the North.

4. Ballintoy Harbour – Pyke Harbour

Ballantoy Harbour is a Game of Thrones setting where Theon first arrived home to the Iron Islands and meets his sister. The crew transformed the setting harbor into a bustling harbor filled with boats and dock workers.

It’s not only a beautiful setting for the series, it’s a fantastic place to visit in its own right. You can see our tour of the Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations right here. 

5. Mussenden Temple – Dragonstone Castle

Another extraordinary Game of Thrones setting sits high on a cliff overlooking the coast. Here is Dragonstone Castle stands where Melisandre, aka The Red Woman, burns the Statues of “The Seven” to make Stannis convert to her religion.

Although you won’t see it (because the castle is all built by a computer in post-production CGI) it is still a beautiful location to visit.

6. The Glens of Antrim – Beheading of Deserter

We’re going way back into the vault for this one.  It was at the beginning of season 1, we saw the Glens of Antrim. Remember when Ned Stark beheaded a Night’s Watch deserter in front of his sons? This is the place.

7. Murlough Bay – Theon and Yara Riding

While driving along the Causeway Coastal Route, in Northern Ireland we took a detour to Murlough Bay to view the Scottish Isles and more of the stunning coast.

It is so picturesque here, that it was used as the rolling countryside where Theon and his sister Yara, rode their horses toward their father’s castle.

8. Marble Arch Caves – The Hound

I love the character The Hound. A pivotal scene took place with him when he encounters Beric Dondarrion in season three.

Beric and the Hound fight each other in the cave right here at marble Arches. The Hound wins, but Beric is resurrected and we discover that he can’t die. ooooh.

Game of Thrones Locations and Causeway Tours  – This day tour leaves from  Dublin and stops at the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle (The inspiration for Harrenhal), Ballintoy Harbour, Cushendun caves where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow killer and includes a stop at  the Giant’s Causeway. 

• Follow the GOT route. We saw all the  Game of  Thrones  Filming locations  on the Causeway Coast.

Game of Thrones Places in Iceland

Iceland was made for movies. Its landscape is out of this world and it feels like you are visiting a fantasy land when driving around the Ring Road.

We all love John Snow and the Knight’s watch. The majority of these scenes are filmed in Iceland.

9. Dimmuborgir – Wildling Camp

Located along Highway 1, The Ring Road, you can see where the Wildlings had their camp north of the dreaded wall.

Driving through the lava fields Dimmuborgir took our breath away. It was also where Mance Rayder led the Free Folk in the Haunted Forest where Sam and Lord Commander were attacked by white walkers in season 3.

10. Þingvellir Gorge – Wildling’s Homeland

This is not far from Reykjavik so even if you only have a short time in Iceland, you may be able to see this Game of Thrones set.

Located in South West Iceland along the Ring Road, Þingvel is where the White Walkers come from. And be sure to stop at Grjótagjá, the cave where Jon Snow and Ygritte sneak away for some frisky business.

11. Arrowhead Mountain – White Walker Stand off North of the Wall

I would have to say this is the most memorable of the Game of Thrones filming locations season 7. It’s covered in snow and ice in the movie but you cannot mistake Arrowhead Mountain’s peak.

Remember when John Snow and the gang were surrounded by the night king and his undead army as they were trapped on ice? This is the place where the big standoff happened. The glaciers of Iceland make for the perfect backdrop for winter.

12. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

While staying at a hotel near Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, we were told that the cast and crew stayed in our very room while working during the short filming days.

There’s a lot going on beyond the wall in season 7 of Game of Thrones, so it only makes sense that they shoot at one of Iceland’s top attractions. Jokulsarlon Glacier is the perfect setting for beyond the wall.

We always wondered why Vik wasn’t highlighted more in Game of Thrones, but it really picked up in seasons 5 to 7. The black beaches and beautiful rock formations of Reynisfjara beach is so picturesque, how could they not feature it? Well now they have.

The great thing about the film sets in Iceland, is most can be reached from the Ring Road. That is the main highway that goes around the country and hits all the top sites of Iceland.

• Get your Guide offers full day Game of Thrones Tours from Reykjavik – includes hotel pick up, meeting of characters who appeared in GoT, Icelandic horses and English guide.

More Game of Thrones Scenery in Iceland 

• Höfðabrekka located near Vík the southernmost city of Iceland
• The Vatnajökull glacier, (Europe’s largest ice cap)
• Lake Myvatn, and the lava field near the town of Húsavik.
• SÞjorsárdalur and the “Settlement Era Viking Lodge.

HAVE LIMITED TIME? CHECK OUT THIS FULL DAY GOT TOUR WITH GET YOUR GUIDE THAT HAS IT ALL!

Where is Game of Thrones Filmed in Spain?

Game of Thrones started filming in  Spain for season six. The cast and crew really got around Spain traveling up and down the country.

14. Girona – Kings Landing and Braavos

We have spent a lot of time in Girona it makes for the perfect fantasy setting. Make sure to spend a day or two in this town located 40 minutes from Barcelona . And then make your way to the Girona Cathedral to see the Game of Thrones set for The Great Sept of Baelor.

Getting lost in the narrow streets of the Old Quarter of Girona will take you through what you know on Game of Thrones as  The Free City of Braavos in Essos. You can book a Game of Thrones walking tour in Girona

15. Basque Country – Dragon Stone Castle

When we ran with the bulls in Pamplona, we spent some time traveling through Basque Country . I do wish we knew about a few of the places that show up in Game of Thrones Season 7 then. But it also gives us a reason to go back!

Make sure you go to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe just 40 km from Bilbao to see the incredible snaking staircase that many a scene of Dragonstone was shot.

16. Seville

Seville is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities. Several scenes were shot at the Roman ruins of Italica and the Seville Stockyards. The Plaza de Torres was used for the fighting pit in Mareen, and the Alcázarseveral locations in Dorne

17. Guadalajara

You’ll find the Tower of Joy in Dorne at the Castillo de Zafra. These were the flashback scenes of a young Ned Stark. Bran’s vision reveals a pivotal moment in the GoT plot with regards to who is John Snow’s father?

Other Game of Thrones locations in Spain include Valencia, Alhamila mountains, and Andalusia Cordoba: The Long Bridge. Barcelona was where the House of Tarly scenes are shot

Croatia – Game of Thrones Locations

Croatia  is where much of the Daenerys and Kings Landing storyline takes place.

18. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s old city has been used extensively for Kings Landing since season two and there are plenty of places that you will recognize. The walls have been used for the battle of Blackwater, for tournaments, for walking shots and market.

Dubrovnik Private GoT Tour  – The stunning setting for Kings Landing where Cersei, Tyrion, Jamie and King Joffrey, spent many days wandering the streets, palaces and walls.

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour  – This group tour takes you through Dubrovnik showcasing scenes from Game of Thrones like Cersei’s walk of shame, and her daughter’s departure to Dorne.

19. Sibenik and Split

Walk through the land of the Unsullied where Khaleesi plots her revenge. Split is where much of the dragons and Khaleesi storyline takes place and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the 7 Kingdoms.

Croatia is an amazing country to visit. It reminded us of Italy with fewer crowds. And a more affordable budget. But with Game of Thrones making it so popular, I’m not sure how long that lower budget will last. Read more: Best Islands to visit in Croatia

Game of Thrones Film Locations in Greece

The cast and crew didn’t exactly shoot on location in Meteora , but second unit was sent out to shoot plates of the magnificent Meteora Monasteries.

20. Meteora

Meteora, Greece was used as its backdrop for the Eyrie castle in the sky, the castle above the clouds where Tyrion had his cell in the sky.

Meteora was digitally mastered into the series because of it’s protected environment, the series could not be officially shot here. However, it is the most striking Game of Thrones scenery you’ll never forget.

We highly suggest visiting because it is one of the most epic places we’ve ever visited on earth. Watch our video:  The Awe-Inspiring Views of Meteora

Game of Thrones Shooting Locations in Morocco

The Daenerys Targaryen storyline has some of the best filming locations for Game of Thrones. They also went to Morocco .

21. Ait Benhaddou 

The ancient fortified city of Ait Benhaddou was used to represent Yunkai. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the perfect setting for The Mother of Dragons to destroy.

22. Essaouira

The port city of Essaouira was also used in season 3 doubling as Astapor. Remember the scene beside the sea when she has rounded up the unsullied and given them a choice to fight for her?

Morocco was used for filming in seasons 1 through 3 for most of Khaleesi’s storyline but from season 4 on they moved to Croatia. It’s still cool to visit the locations from the early days though.

The Game of Thrones films in some of the most exotic locations on earth.

Besides the locations and film sets mentioned above, Game of Thrones has also been filmed in Los Angeles , Calgary, Alberta, and Scotland.

Game of Thrones Scotland Locations

Since we first wrote this post, we have been to even more Game of Thrones filming locations and have updated it to include Scotland!

23. Isle of Skye

We hear that the producers of the Game of Thrones prequel have been scouting the Isle of Skye as a filming location.

After doing a road trip  through Scotland and driving the North Coast 500 to see the beauty of the landscape ourselves, we can understand why they have chosen to make Scotland a big part of the next chapter.

The Isle of Sky is rugged and beautiful and will make an amazing backdrop for the early Seven Kingdoms.

24. Doune Castle

In season 1, Game of Thrones had a short stint in Scotland using Doune Castle as a part of Winterfell, but they haven’t been back since.

It was only used in the pilot of Game of Thrones as the exterior of Winterfell, but Doune Castle’s facade cannot be mistaken as the Stark family’s home setting the stage for the rest of the Game of Thrones seasons.

Doune Castle is located an hour from Edinburgh in the village of Doune and is one of the best preserved Medieval castles in Scotland.

Game of Thrones Locations in Canada

Okay, we are from Canada, so when we heard that the series came to Canada to shoot several scenes we were thrilled. Especially to learn that Alberta became a huge part of the Game of Thrones family of locations.

25. Banff and Calgary

Shot throughout Banff and Calgary , GOT took advantage of our Canada’s giant wolves, (Dire wolves are provided by Instinct Animals out of Calgary) and our award-winning production crews. Something tells me they were inspired by the Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary in Banff. Read more: The Best Things to do in Banff.

Banff looks exactly like Winterfell in winter. It is freezing, icy, and beautiful all at once. And check out Banff National Park to see it for yourself and walk in the footsteps of Arya Stark as you search for wolves.

United States GOT Places

26. los angeles.

I remember going to the Royal Winter Fair at Toronto’s CNE as a kid to see Bart the Bear (the star of the movie “ The Bear “)

His bloodline has continued in showbusiness and Bart Jr. has been in a slew of Hollywood blockbusters including Game of Thrones. Remember in Season 3 when Brienne took on a bear to save herself and Jaime?

Well, they traveled all the way to Los Angeles to film that scene. Apparently, the bear had its own air-conditioned trailer. R ead more: 25 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles – Hollywood, Hikes, And More

Game of Thrones Setting in Malta

Malta  was only used as a Game of Thrones filming location in Season 1 but it set the stage for the seasons to come.

We have yet to visit Malta, but our friends at Maptrotting lived there and wrote about it for us in this  very informative post. 

It was used mostly for Kings Landing, the Daenerys storyline and Pentos.

The fortified city of Mdina was the perfect setting with stone walls and an ancient setting.

Notable filming locations in Malta

• Fort St. Angela – Dungeons of the Red Keep
• Rabat’s St. Dominic Monastery
• Manikata was a town raided by the Dothraki
• The Island of Gozo housed the wedding of Daenerys and Drogo.

There are so many GOT settings to visit, we barely scratched the surface. But if you find yourselves in one of the countries mentioned above, be sure to check out the scenery that you might recognize from the series.

It’s a great way to make your travels more fun!

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Enjoy our Game of Thrones Movie Locations? Pin it for reference when you travel next!

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49 thoughts on “Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life”

ICELAND is just like heavan must visit. Hi Dev your Photographs are awesome

I found this post is very interesting as one can visit the Game of Throne filming location. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful pictures. Really Highly informative!!!! Good luck !!

If the Corona virus did anything it allowed me to watch a lot of series. My favorite ones were filmed in Scotland. My heritage is Scottish. Eventhough I have not been yet. It is on my travel “must do” list. Long time lurker and first time commentor.

Thanks for dropping by Wes. It might be time to make your way to Scotland…in 2021 🙂

Great list of some of the magnificent places. Thank you for sharing.

Reading this was like going back to GOT days, everything was right in front. Felt this article should keep going and never ends.

This is such an adventurous read I would say, felt like a tour guide taking me through all these adventures places. Thank you guys for bringing GOT days back.

Some truly amazing sites, for sure. The Dark Hedges location is truly an awe inspiring site!

What an amazing list of some spectacular places! I can’t imagine that I’ll ever visit all of them but a girl can dream!

You just helped me with your article but now i need another one. I want to know about VIKINGS series location.

A lot of ‘Vikings’ filming locations are in Ireland. Many locations can be found just south of Dublin in the mountains of Wicklow County, especially on the sandy shore of Lough Tay aka Guinness Lake.

Hello!! We live very close to “King’s Landing”. We live in Italy and are a few hours from Dubrovnik, the spectacular scene of the king’s landing. 🙂 I love this serie and your post !

The game of thrones’s one of the most wonderful filming place is Greece.

This post is so cool! The most completepost I’m reading about places of games of Thrones !!! As fan 1000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 thanks you !!!!

Oh! I recently visited Sevilla and also the filming locations. Amazing!!

This is awesome post, I like all the photos and description that the witter has given to us, Malta, Ireland and Croatia are in my bucketlist. Apart from that LOS ANGELES and Alaska is my dream. Hope i can do it soon. Thank you writer once again.

I found this article very interesting as one can visit the Game of Throne filming location. Thank you for amazing pictures.

We have recently been to Croatia , it is insane the amount of tourist that Games of thrones brought to Dubrovnik. We enjoyed it, but I wished I visited before to enjoy this stunning place without the crowd!

People are cherishing the game of thrones characters and screenplay so much that numerous fans have kept the game of thrones wallpaper on their devices.

We visited the Italica Roman Ruins in Seville (Spain), there was filmed the last episodie of the 7 season when Sersei saw the dragons a meet Daneris for first time. Amazing!

co bra? na potencje

ohh man i love this article, I am a big fan of GOT and you told me the location about where all the shooting done. Now I am really excited to explore these places. You put amazing pictures in it, thanks for that. You just gave me the complete itinerary for my next travel destinations. Thank you so much wait, if you are also making the plan just let me you, catch you up soon.

GoT OBSESSED…Okay, now that I got that out of my system haha…I’ve been trying to tick off some of these, though I really should be hitting the Ireland locales when I’m in the UK given I’m so close. Over the summer, for the past 3 years, I sail for 6 months around the Mediterranean and always get to sail into Dubrovnik which is insane. Even though it’s so overrun now with tourists, if you hit the backstreets it’s a bit better. Great guide, I need to see some more of these for myself!

Glad I enjoyed the post! Thanks a lot

LOvely location and setting…I loved it…Thank you for this blog!!

I heard “Game of Thrones” is an interesting video game.

Spain was the best. The biggest character gathering in Game of Thrones history was set in Italica, Spain (King’s Landing Dragonpit),

In the Roman ruins of Itálica. The production team built a platform to protect the central area of the ancient amphitheater that once housed 25,000 spectators. Now, it’ll be known for hosting three Lannisters, two Targaryens, two Cleganes, two Greyjoys, two dragons, a few friends, a few foes, and a dead man walking.

THE LOCATION OF THIS MOVIE IS AN INSPIRING PLACE FOR FILM LOCATION FOR A EPIC MOVIES LIKE GAME OF THRONES & WESTEROS…

Yeah… thanks for amazing list of beautiful place to visit. Hopefully i’ll visit those place soon especially Spain.

I hope it will started soon again. I miss GoT so much 😀

Everyone must visit Iceland it’s just heaven.

Hey, Dave I just want to say, your dark theme with amazing photographs really makes me feel this beautiful world.

I am a just big fan of you and your useful tips and suggestion.

We visited Essaouira in 2014 – but we didn’t realise that GoT had been filmed there until we got back home! Shame I did have my blonde wig and toy dragon for photo opportunities =)

The scenery in GoT really is spectacular! Really would love to go to Iceland – looks absolutely stunning!

I have a friend who is totally in love with Game of Thrones, unfortunately for me the bug hasn’t caught but with such stunning locations i see why she loves it that much:) maybe i should give it a try 🙂

I found Game of Thrones a slow burn. I didn’t love it at first, but now I am obsessed with it. After visiting some of the locations around the world, I get very excited to see where they’ll go next!

Thanks for sharing this post! This is my one of the favourite series of “Games of Throne”. I like this kind of places and it is the best place to visit.

I love the Game of Thrones too. it was pretty cool to visit some of the sets that we have seen on TV. And it was the best to dress up like them!

Wow..!! this is favorite series of “game of throne” i love all the places where the complete suiting happened…. and Amazing list of places to visit. Wish I’d visit these places definitely very soon..Especially Iceland and Meteora looks worth visiting…

It’s cool man, just beautiful pictures in great place.

I never hear about the serial and movie named Game of Thrones. Because I am not interested to watch serial. But the location of the Game of Thrones, is just awesome. Looking very beautiful.

Wow I never knew that Daenery’s storyline took place in Croatia. That makes me want to travel there just that much more! Very cool and interesting blog post!

Amazing list of places to visit. Wish I’d visit these places soon..Especially Croatia and Ireland looks worth visiting…

They are amazing to visit. I think Ireland is one of our favourite destinations on earth. We could visit again and again!

I’m heading to Iceland in May and can’t wait to pretend to be a Wildling! Actually wasn’t aware that the Meteora scenes were often superimposed though. Any tips for what to do in Iceland? 🙂 So far I’m thinking Golden Circle, snorkelling between the continental plates, and that’s as far as I’ve got!

Amazing! Have a great time. Be sure to hike on some of the glaciers and go horseback riding. That’s a highlight for sure.

bizarre how there is no new zealand, nothing from the orient, china has incredible sand dunes, or argentina, with its magnificent patagonias. plus they have nothing an the amazon either, south america has breath taking jungles and rain forests.

New Zealand is surprising. I guess the Hobbit had that area covered. South America is amazing. I don’t recall jungle scenes in GOT but they do have great coastal views for sure.

Damn, I hope the GOT producers are collecting their air miles – imagine jumping between all of these places. I’m not a big GOT fan myself, but I do love some of the scenery they set themselves in, so it would be great to tick off some of the locations as I go around the world 🙂

Thanks for the share,

I know! We’ve wondered how they keep it all organized. There must be a lot of skype calls and watching dailies via satellite or something. Or maybe they just fly from place to place week to week. It’s amazing. We didn’t see the first episode of Season 6. We’re always a season behind because we buy the season once it’s released. But it’s getting harder, you always hear what happens online so we have to be careful not to let everyone ruin it for us 🙂

I’ve somehow expected to see 4 of the 6 location in this list: Iceland, Northern Ireland, Morocco and Croatia, but I wasn’t expecting Spain or Meteora to be on the list. I am surprised they haven’t tried some rustic location like Romania, Poland or Slovakia, who have a lot of villages that I think would be great location for GoT scenes.

Spain is a great choice. When we were there they just announced it and while riding bikes through all the medieval villages we could totally envision Game Of Thrones taking place here. Meteora makes an amazing fantasy setting. They have strict laws for filming there since it’s a protected site, but they did manage to get it featured nicely.

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24 Must Visit 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations

By Dan Elias Bliss . May 23, 2019

Through the many twists and turns, we watched as the battle for the throne stretched across seven kingdoms and north of the Wall. At times Game of Thrones was emotionally draining or even frustrating, but the show took us around the world to many stunning locations. Read our list of 23 real-life Game of Thrones locations to visit, and what some of our past interns have said about seeing their favorite filming locations.  

1. Itzurun Beach, Zumaia (Dragonstone)

Fans will remember the rocky shores of Itzurun Beach most recently when Daenerys Targaryen made her return to Westeros. Unlike some other Game of Thrones locations, Dragonstone is incredibly easy to visit. The beach is located next to the seaside town of Zumaia. You can hike along the Flysch Route coastal walk or even hire a guide to show you around.

"Year after year, interns on my [ Barcelona ] program finally convinced me to watch GoT, and it was life-changing! I actually visited San Juan's place before even watching the series. By coincidence, someone told us to visit it while we were there in Euskadi. It was absolutely breathtaking. They digitized the little chapel and inserted a castle instead for the show. Pro tip: Make sure to book online before you visit. I promise that the view is worth it!" - Inma L., Barcelona Program Director

2. Itálica (King’s Landing Dragonpit)

The Roman ruins of Itálica will be best known to fans as the largest gathering of  Game of Thrones characters in the show’s history. The ruins once hosted 25,000 spectators but are now known for hosting friends, foes, Taragaryens, Lannisters, Greyjoys, a wight, and more.

3. Los Barruecos (Loot Train Attack)

The first-time Daenerys releases her dragons on the Lannister army is an unforgettable scene in season seven. The ensuing battle and loot train attack all took place at Los Barruecos in Northern Spain . You can explore the sprawling nature reserve and see where one of Game of Thrones’ most fiery battle scenes was filmed.

4. Girona (Braavos)

When traveling in Spain the city of Girona is a must-visit for any Game of Thrones fan. The medieval city provides plenty of incredible history and has been used for multiple Game of Thrones sets. By walking through the ancient streets you’ll be transported to parts of Braavos, Old Town, and Kings Landing.  

5. Castillo de Almodóvar del Río (Highgarden)

The home of House Tyrell, Highgarden, that was seized by Jaime Lannister in season seven is actually Castillo de Almodóvar del Río. The castle dates back to the 8th century and sits in the hidden gem of Córdoba. Highgarden is open to visitors to explore the dungeons, towers, and range of weapons.

6. Bardenas Reales (Dothraki Sea)

The desert landscape of Bardenas Reales isn’t what you would expect to find in most parts of Europe. However, the miles of carved stone and seas of green grass made it the perfect place for the Dothraki Sea in season six. Visiting the area can be a bit difficult, but if you’re willing to make the trip, you’ll be treated to once in a lifetime views.

7. Alcázar of Seville (Dorne’s Sunspear)

The royal palace is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe, but the crew of Game of Thrones was able to shut down half of it to film some of the series’ most famous scenes. The royal palace served as the setting of the Water Gardens in the fictional city of Sunspear. The site is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site and has grown into Seville’s biggest tourist attraction .

8. Osuna (Duznak’s Pit)

Daznak’s Pit is a massive coliseum that once housed gladiator battles. Now the arena is used by the Mother of Dragons to make her daring escape on the backs of her dragons from the Sons of Harpy. You can take a tour of the season five scene and find plenty of incredible history in the town of Osuna.

9. Ballintoy Harbor (Iron Islands)

“The tour that I was a part of brought pictures and a tablet to show the actual scenes while we were in the shooting locations, which made the locations even more enjoyable. It helped to bring Westeros into the real world and to Northern Ireland . It was also breathtaking to think that these locations exist in the real world and weren't just created digitally to be used on a green screen during production.” - Rebecca S., Dublin, Salisbury University

10. Magheramorne Quarry (Castle Black & North of the Wall)

An active quarry until 1980, Magheramorne Quarry is better known as one of the most important places in Game of Thrones history. Not only is it the backdrop of Castle Black, but its also where many of the sets are built. Thanks to Arya’s epic defeat of the Night King, you won’t have to worry about White Walkers on a tour of Castle Black.

11. Dark Hedges, Ballymoney (King’s Road)

“I am a big GoT fan so it was really cool getting to see where they filmed the King’s Road. I felt like I was in Westeros traveling with the characters to King’s Landing! It’s also just a really beautiful place that should be visited regardless of whether or not you’re a GoT fan! Tip: if you go with a tour group try to walk ahead of the crowd so you can get a shot with no people in it.” - Paige M., Dublin, James Madison University

12. Castle Ward (Winterfell)

Castle Ward isn’t just a set to visit; it’s an experience to be had. At Winterfell , you can see multiple filming locations, meet the direwolves from the show, and live out life in the castle. Winterfell is an easy trip to make as the castle is only two hours away from Dublin and two and a half hours away from London .

13. Tollymore Forest Park (Forests of Winterfell)

Tollymore Forest Park has played a significant role in Game of Thrones across multiple seasons. Ned Stark finding a dead stag, watchmen encountering White Walkers, and Theon trying to escape Ramsey were all shot in the Tollymore Forest Park. The park is one of the most popular places to hike through in all of Northern Ireland .

14. Cushendun Caves (Storm's End)

In season two, the Cushendun Caves were the setting to the shocking scene of Melisandre giving birth to a shadow baby. The crew returned to the chambers below Storm’s End to shoot more in season eight. The caves are one of the most popular and easiest sets to visit.

15. Stakkholtsgja (battle)

The formation of the Stakkholtsgjá canyon causes it to be eerily quiet, making it the perfect place for Jon’s ambush of wights in season seven. The canyon is stunningly beautiful as it’s over 330 feet deep and ends in a waterfall.

16. Vík (Eastwatch-by-the-sea)

The black-sand beach in Vík, Iceland, looks straight out of a fantasy novel. Reynisfjara beach is where the Night’s Watch guard the Wall. There are plenty of ways to explore the stunning beach, including the South Coast Tour and ATV tour.

“Tips for GoT fans visiting would be renting a car, bring rain gear, and make sure to stop and explore as much as you can on your way to Vik. The restaurant attached to the gas station at the beach is also a must.” - Margaret B., Florence, Marymount University

17. Kirkjufell (Arrowhead Mountain)

18. Vatnajökull (Beyond the Wall)

Vatnajökull is one of the most unique filming locations in all of Game of Thrones . Scenes north of the Wall were shot on top of one of the largest glaciers in Europe. Underneath the ice, there are volcanic lakes and volcanoes. Several types of tours take you around and under the glacier.

"I am now a die-hard GoT fan and when I saw the Dark Hedges and parts of Iceland in an episode I totally understood what they hype was about. It's such a cool feeling to stare at the masterpiece that is GoT and go ‘I’ve been there!', it just adds a small personal touch to something that is as huge as Game of Thrones." - Juliana A., Dublin, Salisbury University

19. Šibenik (Braavos)

First appearing in season five, Šibenik was used to represent the city of Braavos. St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site , was used as the Iron Bank. You might recognize Braavos as the city Arya abandoned a mission from the Faceless Men.

20. Trsteno (King’s Landing Palace Gardens)

Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, the Trsteno Arboretum made frequent appearances in early seasons of Game of Thrones . The Arboretum served as the King’s Landing gardens through seasons three and four. The gardens are where Sansa meets with her grandmother to discuss if King Joffrey would be a good husband.

21. Old Town, Dubrovnik (King’s Landing)

“It was one of the most memorable experiences I could have. I’ll never forget sitting on the iron throne and walking the same streets Cersei walked for her walk of shame. This place comes alive every turn you take you feel like you’re in King’s Landing.” – Asha M., Barcelona, Salisbury University

22. Walls of Dubrovnik (Walls of King’s Landing)

For centuries, the Walls of Dubrovnik were considered the greatest fortification systems in the world. That’s why it made the perfect setting for the King’s Landing walls in season two. Even though the walls were heavily edited with CGI, you will still feel immersed in the show by taking a tour of the medieval marvel.

23. Ait Ben Haddou (Yunkai)

Ait Ben Haddou has been featured in a long list of blockbuster hits and TV shows including Game of Thrones . The city made of clay is used to represent the slave-trading city of Yunkai. Ait Ben Haddou also holds the record for one of Game of Thrones’ most Instagrammed locations.

24. Azure Window (Daenery’s and Drogo’s Wedding)

The Azure Window was the setting for the wedding feast for Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo. The Azure window was one of the most popular locations to visit. However, after years of heavy storms, the rock formation collapsed into the sea.

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Real-Life ‘Game of Thrones’ Filming Locations and Places You Can Visit

Editorial Manager

Game of Thrones is one of the greatest TV series of all time, and a huge part of the show’s long-lasting success is its use of real-life locations within the fantasy setting created by George RR Martin. Culture Trip takes a closer look at the places you can visit to continue your journey to claim the Iron Throne.

‘game of thrones’ locations map.

The world of Westeros, the land where the majority of the action of Game of Thrones is set, takes its cues from the Medieval era. For the screen adaptation, producers of the show chose spectacular locations that inspire a sense of the otherworldly atmosphere depicted in the book, as well as places that ground the action in reality.

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Iceland has seen a recent boom in visitors thanks in no small part to Game of Thrones . Given the varied terrain of the island nation, from the harsh black sands of the south – where the infamous Wall is digitally erected every season – to the chilling ice enclaves in the north, visitors will feel as if they are taking a mini tour of Westeros whenever they venture out of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík . The spectacular Thorufoss saw dragons swooping in, and Grjótagjá Cave was privy to the famous ‘intimate’ moment between Jon Snow (Kit Harrington) and wildling Ygritte (Rose Leslie). With shooting locations all over the country, Iceland is a dream destination for diehard fans.

You might also like: The Stunning Locations of Game of Thrones in Iceland

Northern Ireland

The vast sets for Game of Thrones are in purpose-built studios in Belfast . Some of the most recognisable interiors seen on the show, such as Winterfell and Castle Black, are housed in huge buildings in the city, but their exteriors are dotted around the country. HBO, the network responsible for the TV phenomenon, has announced plans to keep the sets in place and turn them into tourist attractions in 2020. There are also a number of locations seen on screen that capture the natural beauty of Northern Ireland , most of which you can explore here.

Doune Castle in Scotland was the original location for the Stark family home Winterfell. The unaired pilot, which also featured a number of cast members who didn’t make it through to the first broadcast episode of the series, featured the famous Scottish location, but logistical issues and a lack of studio space saw production move to Northern Ireland soon afterwards. Rival series Outlander has subsequently used numerous Scottish locations, which does make obvious sense, but the prequel to Game of Thrones is set to return to the Isle of Skye in the northwest of Scotland.

Game of Thrones is actually just the title of the first book in the epic A Song of Fire and Ice collection. We’ve already discussed some of the colder locations, but there are also lands that are covered in red sands and suffocating heat. The south of Spain is where you will find over a dozen filming locations, especially in later seasons. A real-life bullfighting ring in Seville was used as a Meereen fighting pit, and other locations include Córdoba , Girona and Cáceres .

Atlas Studios, the world’s biggest film and TV dedicated studio, is situated in Ourzazate, in southern Morocco . The Atlas Mountains lie on one side, with nothing but miles of desert on the other. Movies such as Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Living Daylights (1987), The Mummy (1999) and Gladiator (2000) were shot here before Game of Thrones rolled into town. We’ve seen Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) free the Unsullied here as well as her dragons unleashing their fiery fury for the first time. The towns of Essaouira and Aït Benhaddou also feature in the series as parts of the journey undertaken by Daenerys as she grows her army in the south of Westeros.

You might also like: This Moroccan Village Is an Iconic Film Set

Malta played a big role in the first series of Game of Thrones but hasn’t been featured since the inaugural episodes. Even so, Malta’s gorgeous vistas have become ingrained in the minds of fans, and themed tours still take place on the main island and Gozo in the north. The fortified city of Mdina was the location that was first used to depict the Lannister stronghold of King’s Landing.

Sadly, tourists will no longer be able to see the famed Azure Window, which was the backdrop to Daenerys and Drogo’s ( Jason Momoa ) wedding ceremony. The spectacular rock formation collapsed into the sea in 2017.

From season two onwards, King’s Landing has played a much bigger part in Game of Thrones . The producers found a permanent home in Dubrovnik on the coast of the Adriatic Sea . The Medieval walls of the city appealed to producers as they match many of the descriptions in the original text. One of the most famous scenes in TV history, the unforgettable “walk of shame,” was shot from the top of the Spanish steps in the Old Town. The lush greenery of Lokrum , an island a short boat ride away from the old Dubrovnik harbour, was used for filming too.

You might also like: A Tour Of Croatia’s Game of Thrones Locations

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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January 30, 2024

10 things to SEE and DO at Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Planning a trip to the island of Ireland in 2024?

Game of Thrones Studio Tour is the perfect addition for your itinerary!

Let’s discover the making of the hit HBO TV phenomenon Game of Thrones, whether you’re a fan of the show, a fan of TV and film, or simply seeking a thrilling day out with friends and family – this is an unmissable experience for everyone.

Here’s 10 things you can only SEE and DO, at Game of Thrones Studio Tour:

1. The real Iron Throne

Experience a spine-tingling conclusion in front of the authentic Iron Throne, designed by Weapons Master Tommy Dunne. This iconic piece of cinematic history can only be seen at Game of Thrones Studio Tour. Meet our Studio Tour Guide, Jesse, who will tell you more about the Iron Throne.

2. Authentic sets including Winterfell, Dragonstone and Kings Landing

The 110,000sq ft experience hosts hundreds of stunning costumes, lavish weapons and props from the show, and actual film sets such as Winterfell, Dragonstone, and Kings Landing, taking you right into the heart of Westeros. Winterfell remains untouched since filming, giving you the ultimate experience following in the footsteps of cast and crew.

Setting the scene: The actual film set for Winterfell’s Great Hall in Game of Thrones

3. Make memories that last a lifetime

Capture your journey and sit on the Iron Throne, and make a memory that will last a lifetime.

Fun: Get a green-screen image on the Iron Throne

4. Feast like a King or Queen

Grab a coffee or light bite at the Lobby Café or enjoy a hearty meal in our Studio Restaurant. While planning your trip, you can browse our dining options and pre-book in advance of your visit.

From a family meal option to a Seven Kingdoms Afternoon Tea experience, the dining choices are as ample as a House Lannister banquet.

Our family meal option suits 2 adults and 2 children and includes a soft drink per person for a mere £48 to the Master of Coin!

King of the kitchen: Executive Head Chef Bradley preparing a locally sourced dish

5. Get up close and personal with captivating costumes, weapons and props

Costumes worn by character favourites Cersei, Jamie and Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, and memorable weapons such as Longclaw, The Oathkeeper, Prince Joffrey’s wicked crossbow, and of course, the opulent Catspaw Dagger – now featuring in the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon – can be seen at Game of Thrones Studio Tour.

Captivating: More than 150 screen-used costumes from Game of Thrones are on show at the Studio Tour

6. Treat yourself in the World’s largest Game of Thrones merchandise shop

Game of Thrones Studio Tour boasts the largest Game of Thrones merchandise shop in the world! Browse our extensive range of official merchandise, show allegiance to your house Sigil and stake your claim to the Iron Throne!

Suits you: Grab a souvenir at the world’s largest Game of Thrones shop

7. Hear secrets from behind the scenes

Enhance your experience with an Audio Guide Handset (just £4.95) and hear the stories that brought Game of Thrones to life. The audio guide can be played in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Chinese.

Speaking your language: The Game of Thrones Studio Tour Audio Guide

8. Meet cast and crew

You never know who you might see at Game of Thrones Studio Tour… since opening in 2022, we have welcomed cast members such as Indira Varma (Ellaria Sand), Ian Beattie (Ser Meryn Trant), Ian McElhinney (Ser Barristan Selmy), Kristian Nairn (Hodor), Isaac Hempstead-Wright (Bran Stark), Daniel Portman (Podrick), Nathalie Emmanuel (Missandei) and Natalia Tena (Osha), as well as crew like Tommy Dunne (Weapons Master), Janine Rice (Make-up Artist), Barry & Sarah Gower (Prosthetics), John Regan (Head of Carpentry) & Helen Sloan (Head of Photography).

Creator: Weapons Master Tommy Dunne with Catspaw Dagger

9. Seasonal Lobby Displays

Start your journey through the Seven Kingdoms with our seasonal lobby displays. If you haven’t been to Game of Thrones Studio Tour yet, you have missed displays from Dorne, Qarth, and the Wedding Dresses of Game of Thrones. But don’t worry, there’ll always be a great costume display meeting the first steps on your journey.

Watch the video below to see the iconic Stark family and Jon Snow display for Winter 2023.

10. Get immersed in our interactive experiences

Interactive exhibits are located throughout the Studio Tour, and you can try your hand at archery, learn how to fight with a sword, become a White Walker or Kingsguard for the day!

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26 Stunning 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations Worth Visiting

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People who first learned about the world of Westeros from the HBO series "Game of Thrones" have waited to learn how the story ends since the first season premiered eight years ago — and are anxiously awaiting the premiere of Season 8 on April 14. After the series finishes this summer, you can still get a "Game of Thrones" fix  by visiting various real-world locations where famous scenes from the series were shot. Though the location of Darnerys and Khal Drogo's marriage, Malta's famous Azure Window rock arch, washed away in an intense storm in 2017, there are 26 filming locations you can still visit.

Itzurun Beach, Spain

You May Know It As:  Dragonstone Beach Not until Season 7 did Daenerys and her followers finally cross the Narrow Sea and land on the beach at Dragonstone, which is actually Itzurun Beach in Spain's Basque region. The beach is easy to reach from the nearby town of Zumaia , or you can see it as part of a specialized 'Game of Thrones' tour .

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain

You May Know It As:  The Dragonstone stairs Once Dany and her coterie landed in Westeros, she had several impromptu conferences with her advisers on Dragonstone's spectacular outdoor stairway. Those scenes were filmed at another bit of Spanish Basque scenery, the famous staircase leading to the church of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe , built over 10 centuries ago to honor John the Baptist. Public transport in the nearby city of Bilbao  provides regular service to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (which was a popular tourist attraction centuries before "Game of Thrones"), but be prepared for a three-mile hike including many very steep stairs.

Castle of Trujillo, Spain

You May Know It As:  Casterly Rock The exterior shots of House Lannister's imposing home at Casterly Rock were mainly filmed at the Castle of Trujillo in Spain. Two-hour tours  of the castle and the surrounding village that combine real-world history with Westerosi lore can be taken for as little as $15 per person.

Alcázar, Spain

You May Know It As:  The royal palace of Dorne Most scenes of the lush royal palace in Dorne were actually shot at the Alcázar, a spectacular palace in Seville. Jaime, Prince Doran, and Ellaria Sand met in the palace's Ambassador's Hall, while the Alcazar's Moorish baths were where Ellaria and the Sand Snakes plotted to murder Princess Myrcella. Guided tours of the castle  start at $16 per person if booked in advance. Advance bookings are recommended because the palace only has room to allow a limited number of visitors each day.

Castillo de Almodóvar, Spain

You May Know It As:  Highgarden and Casterly Rock Not until Season 7 did fans catch their first glimpse of House Tyrell's home at Highgarden. The exterior shots of the castle were filmed at Spain's Castillo de Almodóvar, and a couple parts of Casterly Rock were Almodovar's dungeons. A guided Game of Thrones tour of the castle  costs 9 euros (about 10 dollars).

Doune Castle, Scotland

You May Know It As:  Winterfell House Stark's stronghold of Winterfell is a combination of real-world spots, most notably Doune Castle, a medieval fortress in central Scotland. The castle was also the main filming location for the movie "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Though the outside of the castle bears little resemblance to Winterfell, "Game of Thrones" fans will recognize Doune's courtyard and Great Hall from the Starks' residence. Castle day tours  leaving from the city of Edinburgh can be found for less than $50 if booked in advance.

Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Winterfell While Scotland's Doune Castle provided interior and courtyard settings for Winterfell, the exterior shots of the Stark fortress were filmed outside Northern Ireland's Castle Ward and then heavily enhanced by computer graphics. You won't see Winterfell's circular towers at Castle Ward (or anyplace else in our world), but sharp-eyed "Game of Thrones" fans will recognize the castle as the square guard tower framing Winterfell's gate. The castle can be seen on its own, or as part of any of the many guided tours  of "Game of Thrones" locations available in Northern Ireland.

Fort Manoel, Malta

You May Know It As:  Sept of Baelor For devout worshipers of the Seven, the great Sept of Baelor in the city of Kings' Landing was the holiest spot in all of Westeros until Cersei blew it up in the Season 6 finale. Though the sept is gone, its real-world counterpart remains: the magnificent Fort Manoel in Malta. Day tours of multiple Maltese "Game of Thrones" film locations  including the fort can be booked for as little as $68.

Mdina, Malta

You May Know It As:  Littlefinger's brothel, the Red Keep, and more Many notable scenes from Season 1 were filmed in the Pjazza Mesquita, a scenic plaza in the Maltese city of Mdina. Littlefinger's brothel is here, the square is also where Ned and Catelyn first reunited in King's Landing, and where Jamie Lannister and his men later captured Ned Stark. Other "Game of Thrones" locations in or near Mdina include the city gate (which doubles as one of the gates to King's Landing), the San Anton Palace ( hallway of the Red Keep ), and Fort St. Angelo ( dungeon of the Red Keep ) and other King's Landing sites.

St. Dominic Convent, Malta

You May Know It As:  Red Keep garden In Season 1, the Ned Stark assured his doom by meeting Cersei in the gardens of the Red Keep and urging her to flee Westeros before he revealed their true parentage to King Robert. Those gardens are actually in Malta at the convent  of St. Dominic.

Verdala Palace Grounds, Malta

You May Know It As:  Illyrio's house in Pentos The "Game of Thrones" pilot episode introduces Daenerys and Viserys living in the palace of Illyrio Mopatis and preparing for Dany's first meeting with Khal Drogo. The spectacular garden scenes were shot on the grounds of the Verdala Palace , a 400-year-old mansion that's served as the official Maltese presidential summer residence since the late 1980s.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

You May Know It As:  Bloody Gate, Thenn visit and more Iceland's Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably the birthplace of the Icelandic nation, being where the first-ever Viking parliament (or "Thing") was established. It also provides the backdrop for a wide variety of Westerosi landmarks. When Sansa and Littlefinger passed through the Bloody Gate to visit Lysa Arryn in Season 4, they were actually at Thingvellir's Stekkjargjá fault. The park's nearby Hvannagjá rift is where Ygritte whittled spears in a canyon while Thenns visited the Wildling camp. "Game of Thrones"-themed daylong bus tours  of the park ( departing from Reykjavik ) can be found from $115. However, not every tour runs every day, so it's wise to book in advance if possible.

Thjóðveldisbærinn Stöng, Iceland

You May Know It As:  Olly's village If you leave Thingvellir National Park and head east along Iceland's route 32, you'll eventually reach Thjóðveldisbærinn Stöng , a reproduction Viking-era village. In "Game of Thrones" it appears as the nameless village attacked by Wildling raiders who killed everybody except a little boy named Olly. The little Viking village is located in the larger Thjórsárdalur Valley, where Arya practiced swordplay with the Hound. Like most Icelandic "Game of Thrones" spots, this can be seen on your own or as part of a guided tour.

Svinafell Glacier, Iceland

You May Know It As:  Ygritte's capture Jon Snow and the Night's Watch captured Ygritte by this stunning blue glacier in Season 2, only a few yards away from the real-life parking lot for tourists visiting the site. Looking at the glacier can safely be done by yourself, but climbing on the ice itself can be very dangerous and should never be done alone. To get onto the glacier, it's safer to go with a group led by an experienced guide; three-hour "glacier walk" tours  start at $88 when booked in advance.

Kirkjufell, Iceland

You May Know It As:  The arrowhead mountain beyond the Wall In Season 7's premiere, when the fire-fearing Hound finally agreed to look into the flames, he said he saw a mountain shaped like an arrowhead. A few episodes later he saw that mountain in person. The arrowhead mountain is actually Iceland's Kirkjufell, a spectacular waterfall/mountain combination  located next to Iceland's route 54 about an hour's drive from Reykjavik. You can visit on your own, or as part of a day-tour package  with prices starting from $110.

Lake Mývatn, Iceland

You May Know It As:  Free Folk camp, Jon and Ygritte's cave and other spots north of the Wall When Jon Snow pretended to cast his lot with the Free Folk early in Season 3, much of the wild scenery of the Wildlings' homes was shot in the vicinity of Iceland's stunning volcanic Lake Myvatn. That's also where the White Walkers attacked Samwell and others from the Night's Watch. Most of these spots are safely accessible on your own, though guided daylong tours  departing from the city of Akureyi can be had starting at $200 (which includes the entrance fee to the Myvatn Nature Baths). Nearby is the Grjotagja lava cave, where Jon and Ygritte had their first romantic experience in Season 3.

Magheramorne Quarry, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Castle Black and the Wall There's an abandoned quarry near the little village of Magheramorne in Northern Ireland, and that quarry (heavily implemented with green-screen computer graphics) stands in for Castle Black and the Wall. While you can't enter the abandoned quarry  itself, you can with a little imagination recognize parts of the Wall and the home of the Night's Watch from outside the grounds.

Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Haunted Forest Tollymore Forest  was designated the first state forest park in Northern Ireland, back in 1955. It's also where "Game of Thrones" had its opening scene — the attack of the white walkers on the Night's Watchmen was filmed here. A later scene in that episode, when Ned Stark found the orphaned litter of direwolves, was also filmed at Tollymore. Ramsay Bolton chased his escaped prisoner Theon through these woods in Season 3.

Ballintoy Harbor, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Pyke, Iron Islands When Theon Greyjoy returned home to the Iron Islands in Season 2, the harbor where he landed was actually Ballintoy  in Northern Ireland.

Gracehill House, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  King's Road The gloomy King's Road where Arya disguised herself as a boy during her travels with Yoren is actually the famous Dark Hedges, a row of over 150 beech trees planted in the 1700s to frame the entrance to Gracehill House, the Stuart family estate. Free visitor parking is available at Gracehill House  though visitors are encouraged to donate to the Dark Hedges Preservation Trust  set up to maintain the trees. The Dark Hedges can also be seen as part of of "Game of Thrones" spots in the area.

Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Vaes Dothrak The harsh granite peaks of the Mourne Mountains in County Down  also served as the entrance to the sacred Dothraki city of Vaes Dothrak. Fans of other fantasy series may be interested to know that the Mourne Mountains are what inspired C. S. Lewis to create the realm of Narnia. These mountains are not far from Castle Ward, where some outer scenes of Winterfell were shot.

Cushendun Caves, Northern Ireland

You May Know It As:  Melisandre's cave and Storm's End Near the little coastal Irish town of Cushendun is a series of caves  where Davos and Melisandre traveled so Melisandre could give birth in Season 2. The caves are easy to visit on your own, but are also a popular stop on many "Game of Thrones"-themed tours of Northern Ireland.

Essaouira, Morocco

You May Know It As:  Astapor When Daenerys went to Astapor to get her Unsullied army, the Moroccan city of Essaouira (on the Atlantic coast) filled in as Astapor's seaside wall and cannon . Though there are no organized "Game of Thrones" tours of Moroccan spots, Essaouira was popular with tourists even before the show and self-guided walking tours are easy to arrange.

Ait Benhaddou, Morocco

You May Know It As:  Yunkai Essaouira is not the only Moroccan site seen as a city in Slaver's Bay. The ancient fort of Ait Benhaddou is the city of Yunkai , where Daenerys and the Unsullied went in Season 3 to give the slaves the weapons they needed to overthrow their masters. The outer walls of the fort dominate the background when the newly freed slaves praised Daenerys as Mhysa.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

You May Know It As:  multiple King's Landing sites The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has undergone a tourism boom since "Game of Thrones" began, since so many of its streets and landmarks stand in for equivalents in the Westerosi capital of King's Landing. St. Dominic Street (named for the Dominican monastery it passes) first appeared in Season 1 when the Gold Cloaks murdered one of King Robert's bastard sons, and most notoriously appeared at the start of Cersei's nude walk of atonement in Season 5. Even Dubrovnik's city walls have roles to play: when Tommen talks to Cersei about returning to Casterly Rock, the walls of the Red Keep were actually Dubrovnik's West Wall. Thrifty "Game of Thrones" fans can take self-guided tours, but fans willing to splurge can find formal Game of Thrones"-themed tours of the city  ranging from simple walking tours for 190 Croatian kuna (about $29) to deluxe luxury packages from 850 kuna (roughly $129).

Lokrum Island Monastery, Croatia

You May Know It As:  Qarth Just off the coast of Dubrovnik (and easily accessible by ferry) is Lokrum Island, whose monastery filled in for the city of Qarth when Daenerys went there in Season 2. Like most Croatian Game of Thrones spots, the monastery  can be seen on its own or as part of a guided tour.

10 'Game of Thrones' Locations You Can Actually Visit in Real Life

Pack your bags, we're going to Winterfell!

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Game of Thrones may be over, but its legends live on. If you’re not ready to leave Westeros behind, you can always try to immerse yourself in it. Sure, Winterfell, the Red Keep, and the Iron Islands are fictional, but Northern Ireland, Croatia, and Iceland are real — and look just as spectacular.

Oh, and, did we mention that some of these sites are spectacular in their own right, apart from their Game of Thrones connections? You can find UNESCO-recognized historical sites, breathtaking waterfalls, and beautiful beaches there, too.

The farmyard of Winterfell is actually Castle Ward in Northern Ireland . If you visit today, you can opt for a Game of Thrones experience, and test out your skill on the archery range.

RELATED: The Best "Game of Thrones" Costumes for a Superfan's Ultimate Halloween

Winterfell (Pilot)

For the pilot episode of Game of Thrones , Doune Castle in Scotland stood in for Winterfell. You might recognize it from a different on-screen close-up: It was featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail . In fact, you can take audio tours narrated by Python's Terry Jones.

MORE INFORMATION

The Iron Islands

Also in Northern Ireland, the Ballintoy Harbour is a stand-in for the home of the Greyjoys. You can find tours that will take you from Belfast through the harbor, to the Caves of Cushendun (where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow baby), down the Dark Hedges road (where Arya escaped King's Landing), and to the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway (no Game of Thrones connection, but still pretty cool).

The Haunted Forest

On the hunt for some direwolf pups? The post where Ned Stark and Co. found some is the Tollymore Forest Park in Newcastle, Northern Ireland. Keep an eye out for White Walkers!

Great Sept of Baelor

Every fan knows this as the place where poor Ned Stark met his end. In reality, Fort Manoel in Malta has its own Earth-shattering story: It's said to be haunted by a Black Knight who wakes up when the area is in peril.

The Red Keep

Perched on the rocks of a 120-foot-tall cliff in Dubrovnik, Croatia, Fort Lovrijenac acts as Game of Thrones 's Red Keep, where King Joffrey threw his Name Day celebration. The nearby Trsteno Arboretum was used as the castle's gardens.

Cersei's "Walk of Atonement"

The spot where Cersei Lannister had to take a nude walk of shame is actually a religious one: the Jesuit Staircase out side of the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola in Dubrovnik. Now, it's one of the most sought-after Instagram spots for GoT fans.

Dragonstone

The ancestral home of the House Targaryen is actually in Spain: Playa de Itzurun in Zumaia, to be exact. In addition to the beach, the area is known for it interesting geological formations.

The Bloody Gate

The path to Aunt Lysa's house runs through Iceland; the bloody gate is a trail through the Almannagjá gorge that leads to the Öxarárfoss waterfall. Both are located in Thingvellir National Park , which provides the backdrop for many Game of Thrones scenes .

Jon Snow's Dragon Landing Pad

When Jon Snow takes flight on a dragon and soars off with Daenerys, they land in an isolated, remote spot just by a waterfall. It's actually one of the most visited locations in Iceland: the Skógafoss waterfall . The aerial scenes were also filmed over Iceland by helicopter, and you can book a six-day, self-driving tour of all of Iceland's Game of Thrones locations.

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13 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Ireland

Categories Antrim , Down , Where To Go

Since Game of Thrones premiered almost a decade ago, it has slowly but surely built the massive following that soon catapulted it to global success.

The fantasy series based on G. R. R. Martin’s novels was a phenomenal hit, with its intricately intertwined storylines, complex characters that are compellingly portrayed by its talented cast, breathtaking sceneries captured through its stunning cinematography – that has captivated fans season by season.

Along with their overwhelming support for the series, fans have developed an interest in the books, in the made-up languages, and most especially, in the locations where Game of Thrones was filmed.

From Spain to Iceland to Croatia , and mostly to Northern Ireland where a big chunk of the series was shot, fans from all over continue to flock and go about their ways exploring the seven kingdoms of Westeros.

In this Games of Thrones filming locations in Ireland, we are taking you not just on a journey to the Iron Throne, but also on a wonderful exploration of the beauty that is Northern Ireland a.k.a. Game of Thrones territory.

Things you'll find in this article

1. The Dark Hedges – County Antrim (The King’s Road)

2. audley’s field, strangford, co. down (rob’s camp)n, 3. castle ward, county down (winterfell), 4. glenariff forest park, county antrim (runestone, vale of arryn), 5. dunluce castle, county antrim (the house of greyjoy), 6. mussenden temple and downhill beach, county londonderry (dragonstone), 7. ballintoy harbour, county antrim (lordsport harbor, iron islands), 8. murlough bay: co. antrim, northern ireland ( the road to pyke), 9. cushendun caves, county antrim (the stormlands), 10. shane’s castle, county antrim (the land of always winter / the wildlings site), 11. tollymore forest park, country down (the haunted forest), 12. binevenagh – limavady, co. londonderry ( dothraki grasslands), 13. titanic studios, belfast.

The historic path of Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

A picturesque avenue of intertwined beech trees that were planted by the Stuart family more than 200 years ago, the trees now known as The Dark Hedges were really intended to create an imposing approach for visitors visiting their mansion, Gracehill.

The 150 beech trees, which gradually grew into the gnarled and twisted looking trees we see today, is now one of the most photographed in the world, thanks to its appearance in HBO’s phenomenal recently concluded fantasy series, Game of Thrones.

The Dark Hedges is featured in the series as King’s Road, with their ominous atmosphere adding a foreboding feeling to any scenes they have been in.

In Game of Thrones season two, the King’s Road is where young Arya Stark traveled on in the back of a cart along with Yoren, Gendry, and Hot Pie – all new recruits for the Night’s Watch.

When visiting this extraordinary Game of Thrones location in Ireland, fans should be extra careful and maintain a certain distance from the trees and to never ever climb them just to get a perfect shot.

The past year’s tourist influx has been particularly harsh to the trees that some have fallen down.

It is advised that those visiting should be minder and more respectful to help preserve the now-iconic Dark Hedges.

Dark Hedges is also one of the best day trips from Belfast and Dublin .

Check this tour that includes a visit to Giant Causeway , Dark Hedges, Dunluce, and Belfast. 

Located at Strangford Lough in County Down , Audley’s Field with its distinctive stone castle was seen in three seasons of Game of Thrones. It is within the Ward Estate which was also used as Winterfell in the hit TV series based on G. R. R. Martin’s books.

The most memorable scenes filmed in Audley’s were in season one when it was used as the backdrop for King Robert Baratheon’s arrival at Winterfell, and in season two, when Robb Stark set up camp here and met Talisa, and it is also where Alton Lannister was imprisoned.

The area itself is really pretty and worthy of an afternoon to explore and hunt out all the filming locations from Game of Thrones. The 16th-century castle, as said, is really part of the Ward family estate in Downpatrick, Co. Down . Walk along the country lanes that lead up to the castle to admire the stone structure up close.​​

The massive Castle Ward estate in County Down contains a variety of attractions, such as trails for exploring, a walled demesne, the Victorian Past Times Center (a Victorian recreation of the estate where children can dress in period clothing) and the Strangford Lough Wildlife Center.

These days, The Ward Estate is known as the setting for Winterfell, the stronghold of the Stark Family, from the phenomenal HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones.

Castle Ward as Winterfell was the site where the Starks receive King Robert Baratheon. Castle Ward’s most recognizable appearance was as Winterfell’s Courtyard, having been seen a number of times in Season 1.

Castle Ward is a National Trust property in Northern Ireland, which offers many Game of Thrones related activities for fans and visitors. You can sign up for archery lessons or even dress up as the Starks and follow in their footsteps around Winterfell.

Opening Hours

The opening hours vary depending on the season, for updated opening hours click here.

Admission Fee

Gift Aid Adult-£10.50 Child-£5.25 Family-£26.25 Group Child Minimum group size 15-N/A

Standard Fee Adult-£9.50 Child-£4.75 Family-£23.80 Group Child Minimum group size 15-£7.00

Contact Information

Address: Strangford, Downpatrick, County Down , BT30 7BA

Phone: 02844881204

Email: [email protected]

There are nine glens in County Antrim County Antrim and Glenariff is known as “the Queen of the Glens,” as the 1,000-hectare park spans all glens. It has three waterfalls and a three-mile Waterfall Walkway, numerous forest trails, and riverside walks.

In the hugely popular fantasy TV series Game of Thrones, Glengarriff is more known as Runestone, a castle in the Vale of Arryn. Runestone is the seat of House Royce, an ancient House that once ruled the Vale as the “Bronze Kings” before the Andal Invasion.

Vale of Arryn, meanwhile, often referred to simply as the Vale, is one of the regions of the Seven Kingdoms. The lush glen in Northern Ireland, as the Runestone in the Vale of Arryn, was the practice ground where Littlefinger and Sansa Stark had to suffer through Robin Arryn’s dismal attempt at dueling.

This gorgeous greenery at the Glenariff Forest Park offers not just a piece of your favorite TV series, but an opportunity to bond with nature as well. Make sure you explore the site before moving on to the next Game of Thrones filming locations on your list.

Prices main entrance Car-£9 Minibus-£13 Coach-£33.50 Motorcycle-£2.50

Address: 98 Glenariff Road. Glenariff County Antrim , BT440QX

Phone: 028-7034-0870

Email:[email protected]

Dunluce Castle, Image by Christine Rogador

County Antrim’s Dunluce Castle was built in the 1500s, with legends and myths surrounding its history such as stories of dark spirits inhabiting the castle and the kitchens tumbling into the sea on a stormy night in 1639. Despite those tales, though, the castle has served as a residence for earls and at one point, even Winston Churchill.

As dramatic as its history is Dunluce Castle’s appearance and location –  beautiful ruins of a medieval castle perched on the edge of jutting coastal cliffs overlooking Northern Ireland’s stunning Causeway Coast. It is for these reasons that the Dunluce Castle was the ideal setting for a dark fantasy series such as Game of Thrones.

In the recently concluded HBO series, the strangely beautiful ruins of Dunluce Castle were used for many of the scenes for the House of Greyjoy, ruler of the Iron Islands.

Aside from Dunluce Castle, there are many other sites to see in Country Antrim , which is particularly rich in Game of Thrones filming locations. These sites include the Giant’s Causeway, the Slemish Mountain, the  Shillanavogy Valley, the Cairncastle, Murlough Bay, Larrybane, and Carnlough.

If you’re going on a tour of Game of Thrones locations in Ireland, make sure you set aside more time in Antrim because several hours in a day won’t be enough.

Daily: 09.30 -17.00 (last entry strictly 16.30)

Adult -£5.50, Child (age 4 -16) – £3.50 Senior citizen £3.50 Student and Benefit Claimants (ID required) – £3.50 Child under 4- Free Family (up to 5 members, including up to 3 adults) – £15.00 Group rate(10 plus, must be pre-booked) – £4 per person

Address: 87 Dunluce Road Bushmills County Antrim BT57 8UY

Phone: 028-2073-1938

Email: [email protected]

Located in the northernmost part of Northern Ireland, Downhill Beach is part of a seven-mile stretch of sand that offers a variety of activities such as water sports and scenic walks.

Above the beach is the easily recognizable Mussenden Temple, which is one of the most photographed structures in Northern Ireland.

Mussenden Temple was built in 1785 by Frederick Augustus Hervey, Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol. It was meant as a summer library and named in honor of his cousin, Frideswide Mussenden. The temple,  perched on a 120-foot cliff, and Downhill Beach below were both featured in the recently concluded HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones.

The beautiful seven-mile stretch of sand at Downhill, one of County Derry’s best beaches , was the filming location of Dragonstone in season two,  when Stannis Baratheon rejected the Seven Gods of Westeros and allowed Lady Melisandre to burn their effigies as an offering to the Lord of Light, as well as where Stannis Baratheon drew his blazing sword, Lightbringer, from the flames. Dragonstone was the ancestral home of House Targaryen and stronghold of Stannis Baratheon.

The instantly recognizable Mussenden Temple which overlooks the beach featured prominently in a number of scenes in the series and a definite must are for fans who are into exploring Game of Thrones locations in Ireland.

The opening hours vary depending on the season, for updated opening hours, click here.

Gift Aid Adult-£6.85 Child-£3.45 Family-£17.10 Children under 5- Free

Standard Fee Adult-£6.20 Child-£3.10 Family-£15.50 Group Child Minimum group size 15-£5.70 Guided tour-£8.00 Children under 5- Free

Address: Mussenden Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RP

Phone: 02870848728

Email: [email protected]

Ballintoy Harbour is located in the small village of Ballintoy, in Country Antrim .  This beautiful harbor, as well as the accompanying village, makes it easy to see why the location scouts from Game of Thrones decided to film here.

An interesting feature of Ballintoy Harbour is that it is a raised beach, which means that the shore lies above the water level and is not inundated during high tide.

This harbor and the quaint village are among the most recognizable filming locations for Game of Thrones in Ireland. Fans will easily remember Ballintoy as the harbor of Pyke which is the Iron Islands’ capital city.

This is where Theon Greyjoy arrived to discuss an alliance between the Starks and the Greyjoys and here is also where he first met his sister, Yara. Parts of the beach were also used to shoot a scene featuring Aeron Greyjoy and Yara.

Meanwhile, the picturesque little fishing town of Ballintoy, with its sweeping verdant coastline and portside appeal, was the perfect setting for Pyke. In the series, the town was used in exterior shots, Lordsport (the seat of House Botley) and the Iron Islands in general.

Check this tour that includes a visit to Giant Causeway and Balintoy Harbour.

Hidden away on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland is the beautiful Murlough Bay, fairly remote but it is worth the trek out to Ballycastle in County Antrim to take in the views along the rocky coastline.

The bay looks out towards some of the Scottish Isles, but on episode six, season five of Game of Thrones, it was where Tyrion and Jorah come ashore and are captured by a slave ship.

True fans of the series with a sharp eye for detail might even notice that this is where Davos Seaworth was shipwrecked and later rescued after the Battle of Blackwater Bay.

This secluded and relatively hard to visit bay was also the place where Yara rides her horse with Theon.

Murlough Bay may have provided a scenic backdrop on TV, but aside from being a recognizable location for Game of Thrones it is also one of the best places to visit in Ireland as it offers some of the most breathtaking views across the Irish Sea to Scotland, and also home to some of the most spectacular coastal causeway driving route.

Cushendun Caves, situated along County Antrim’s beautiful Causeway Coast, has been a popular place to visit, way before their appearance in  Game of Thrones.

These caves, which were formed approximately 400 million years ago, provide the perfect setting for a terrifying scene that involves one of the series’ mystical characters.

In season two, the Cushendun Caves, known in the series as the Stormlands, are where Ser Devos took Lady Melisandre ashore, as directed by King Stannis, and also where Melisandre gave birth to a terrifying shadow assassin.

If you’re a fan who would like to visit this stunning Gane of Thrones location, the caves are easy enough to reach from the charming town of Cushendun, just know beforehand that the area can be a bit muddy.

After your visit to the caves and you wanted to relax a bit, make sure you check out the nearby Mary McBride’s Bar. Look out for one of its doors,  which has carved scenes of Braavos, the free city of Essos.

Address: Cushendun, County Antrim, BT44 0PH

Email: [email protected]

Shane’s Castle is situated near Randalstown in Co. Antrim , by the shore of Lough Neagh. It was built in the 14th century and destroyed by a mysterious fire in 1816. Legends say that a banshee who was angry that the room usually left empty for her had been occupied, was the one who started the fire.

The castle itself has been in a ruined state since but remains to be a part of a working estate that includes farmland, woodland, cattle, and sheep. It is the grounds that mostly feature in the HBO fantasy drama series, Game of Thrones.

Shane’s Castle grounds was the location for the jousting tournament that introduced the brothers Hound and Mountain, as well as that part where Gregor Clegane beheaded a horse. The nearby bridge meanwhile, was the setting for the sword fight between Brienne of Tarth and the KingSlayer.

Inside the ruined castle, the cellars have been used for interior shots with Cersei, Winterfell crypts and scenes with the Faith.

Fans who are looking to visit Game of Thrones locations in Ireland will surely recognize Shane’s Castle by the many ways it was referred to in the series: Winterfell, Castle Black, The Land of Always Winter and The Wildlings Site.

Address: Shanes Castle Estates Co Ltd The Estate Office Shanes Castle Antrim Co. Antrim, BT41 4NE

Phone: 028 9442 8216

Email: [email protected]

This is literally where everything began, the opening scene of episode one of season one, your first glimpse of this phenomenal TV series that has spanned eight seasons within a decade — it was set in the Haunted Forest, which is actually Tollymore Forest Park.

This exceptionally spooky setting for an exceptionally spooky part of the hit TV series was filmed in this park lies at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in County Down.

Within the park grounds, you’ll find the Shimna River, the Stone Bridges, the Hermitage, Cedar Avenue, and experimental forest plots. There are also a number of trails for hiking , biking, and horseback riding, as well as camping and RV sites .

A must-see for fans of the hit HBO series, Tollymore Forest Park is also known now the Haunted Forest and is one of the top locations that fans visit during their tour of  Game of Thrones locations in Ireland.

The Binevenagh, located in Limavady, Londonderry county is otherwise known in the series as the Dothraki Grasslands.

This area was used for a number of different scenes, however the most memorable was in episode 10 of season five when Daenerys Targaryen was rescued by her dragon, Drogon while fleeing from the Sons of the Harpy in the fighting pits of Meereen.

Aside from being one of the best Game of Thrones locations in Northern Ireland, Binevenagh is an attraction in itself as the summit offers stunning panoramic views across Lough Foyle and the Sperrin Mountains.

Its plateau and steep cliffs extend for over six miles across the peninsula of Magilligan, dominating the skyline over the villages of Bellarena, Downhill, Castlerock and Benone beach.

Titanic Museum in Belfast, Image by Christine Rogador

Much of the filming of Game of Thrones takes place inside the gigantic Titanic Studios in Queens Road, Belfast . It is one of the biggest in Europe and built on the site where the original Titanic ship was constructed.

It is here that most of the fixed sets and indoor shots are made and filmed, and from April up to September this year, it is host to the Game of Thrones Touring Exhibition, which gives fans around the world an opportunity to step inside Westeros and the lands beyond.

The exhibition is designed by GES Events in collaboration with HBO® Licensing and Retail and combines costumes, authentic props, and majestic settings from all seasons to create an interactive and unforgettable Game of Thrones experience.

Located in the TEC Belfast, in the footprint of the legendary Titanic Studios, where a great part of the series was filmed for the past decade, the exhibition allows fans to authentically immerse themselves in the mythical lands of Westeros and Essos, as well as relive the trials and tribulations of those who struggle for survival in the shadow of the Iron Throne.

The Game of Thrones Touring Exhibition will also give fans the chance to get an up-close and personal look at the artistry and craftsmanship behind the Emmy award-winning series. As well as the opportunity to “experience the wintry landscapes of the North, explore the tree-lined pathway of the Kingsroad, see the regal settings of King’s Landing, view the conquered city of Meereen with its garrisons of Unsullied warriors, discover iconic costumes of House Targaryen, explore Castle Black, the home of the Night’s Watch, step into the House of Black and White and the frozen lands Beyond the Wall, and reach the iconic Iron Throne Room and gaze upon the Westerosi seat of power in all its foreboding glory.”

Address: Titanic Quarter Ltd Titanic House Queen’s Road Belfast BT3 9DT

Phone: 44 (0) 28 9076 6300

Email:[email protected]

Check this tour that includes a visit to Titanic Belfast.

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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

Thursday 22nd of July 2021

I am not sure where you are getting your info, but great topic.

I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for great information I was looking for this information for my mission.

10 Best Castles In Northern Ireland To Visit - Ireland Travel Guides

Sunday 2nd of May 2021

[…] Gosford Castle is now one of the most popular castles in Northern Ireland, thanks to its prominent appearance in the HBO series, “Game of Thrones“. […]

Elwanda Hoskyns

Sunday 17th of May 2020

Love this list! I'm a big fan of Game of Thrones and planning to visit Ireland soon.

Friday 10th of April 2020

Good day! This post could not be written any better! Reading through this makes me visit all these Game of Thrones locations in Ireland

Screen Rant

Game of thrones: the 10 most beautiful locations in the show, ranked.

Westeros is home to fantastical cities and gorgeous vistas and there's no shortage of beautiful locations to therefore visit in Game Of Thrones.

Game Of Thrones   takes audiences to the fantastical world of George R.R. Martin's Westeros. Thanks to the vivid imagery set out in the books,  The Song Of Ice And Fire  saga contains some truly beautiful locations. Luckily, HBO brought these places to screen in all of their stunning detail.

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Whether it's the impressive cities that populate the Seven Kingdoms or perhaps some of the natural scenery that has come to be familiar to fans, each location is designed to produce a certain set of emotions. Yet some are even more beautiful than the rest, as the set designers and production crew have gone to great lengths to ensure that these settings really pop.

Despite being such a dark and desolate location, there's a natural beauty to The Eyrie that has to be respected. Home to the Arryns , this location is set far above the clouds. Built into a mountainside, it's easily defended thanks to a singular road being the only way in and out of the castles.

The towers that make up this structure are intimidating but also quite elegant in their design. In its day, The Eyrie would have likely been one of the most stunning locations in the whole of Westeros, although under the most recent leadership it has lost some of its gleam. Regardless, it's incredibly impressive.

The Iron Islands are harsh in their design, much like the people who live there. Yet they are also one with nature, able to withstand the waves and storms that they are often subject to. The singular structures connected by rope bridges are inventive in their design.

The creativity in this location is clear to see, and there's something quite special about relying on the ocean in this way. Of course, there is some greenery surrounding the castles as well, demonstrating the life that can come from the water. House Greyjoy takes a lot of pride in the capital of Pyke .

Old Town is the cultural and philosophical capital of Westeros. It's the location where most thinkers study and where Maesters learn their craft. Great libraries, mad inventions, and impressive structures line the streets, all of which are portrayed in an almost heavenly white.

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In terms of innovation and grandeur, there are few places like this in Westeros. Yet, despite the city looking forward as the name suggests, its architecture also feels archaic. As cities go, this is expertly designed and invokes a series of complex emotions. Its portrayal on-screen is something to behold.

Beyond The Wall

There's a vast space beyond the wall , but it's a very daunting area to try to survive. Despite this, whether it's covered in snow or during a period of time where the grasslands and nature are allowed to return, its beauty is simply stunning. There's a simplicity to this location.

The desert of white is complimented by bursts of greenery or and occasional manmade structures that are crude but humble in their nature. Man and Earth are at one here, and somehow, despite going on seemingly forever, there's variation amongst the hills of ice.

Yunkai is one of the many places that the Khaleesi stops off at as she continues to amass her army, free slaves, and make her way toward Westeros. Like many of the locations across the sea, it is full of natural beauty and rich history. The hot climate has allowed for an interesting array of plant life, complemented by intriguing architecture.

From the color palette to the cultural designs influencing every building, there's something very organic about this location. Yunkai often feels like a fantastical realm in a far-off land, with the city being built up into the sky like one large pyramid.

Meereen is similar to Yunkai in its design, utilizing a similar color palette and building up in the form of pyramids. However, it also has natural mountains and hills which are used as part of the foundations for the city, and the location is clearly built for defensive purposes.

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There's something very bold and grand about Meereen, which is why it's used as a base for the Queen of Dragons for so long. Its architecture is once again ancient in nature and there's something strangely mystical about this stunning desert location.

Dragonstone

There are very few castles that are simply as impressive as Dragonstone . The way in which it's built into the rocks, capitalizing on some of those formations created by mother nature, makes it the perfect location for dragons and royalty alike.

Its emphasis on its relationship with the sea as well as its surrounding nature all adds to the aesthetic, but the most beautiful thing about this structure is the design of the sturdy castle itself. It looks as if it could tell plenty of stories and indeed saw lots of action in the war.

Qarth is easily one of the most stunning locations in all of Westeros. It combines the immense beauty of some of the other areas nearby but has a much more open city planning structure. Its markets, streets, and religious buildings are complemented by a great use of natural plant life.

The city has its own harbor too, which adds an element of environmental beauty. It's a city built for the richest and that is reflected in the gold and other precious materials which gives the design an added edge of glamor. Every single road is as breathtaking to walk down as the last.

King's Landing

King's Landing is very much the home of royalty and has been that way for a very long time. It is the most historically significant place in all of Westeros and, as the capitol of the Seven Kingdoms, must cater to a lot of people and represent a number of diverse ideas.

From the harbor to the religious buildings and of course the palaces and keeps themselves, there's all manner of areas to explore in this dense city. King's Landing still somehow combines both incredible architectural integrity with the use of flora throughout.

Dorne combines the most inviting elements of the cities beyond the sea and adds to it the surrounding beauty of the natural landscape. While most of these cities build over what's already there, Dorne builds around it, utilizing impressive courtyards and breathtaking gardens.

There's an elegance to Dorne that cannot be found anywhere else and regality which is also reflected in its people. Sunspear itself, the Capitol of the region of Dorne, is incredibly pretty and serves as a great base location for the first few seasons of the show. It's is as fantastical as the show's premise.

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17 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Ireland (with map)

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The Irish countryside is incredibly beautiful and has featured prominently in all 8 seasons of Game of Thrones. Many of the iconic scenes from the series were filmed at various locations around the country.

Two locations in Northern Ireland feature frequently in the show: the Titanic Studios in Belfast which were used for the larger indoor shoots and the studios at Linen Mills Studios in Bandbridge were used for lots of the studio shoots.

Having spent years visiting the series locations in our home country, we’ve put together this guide of best Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland. It is possible to visit each location on this list and we hope you have as much fun exploring as we had!

Table of Contents

Map of Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Ireland

We’ve put together this map which shows all the Game of Thrones Filming locations that we’ve visited in Ireland and have included below.

Click here for an interactive Google map of all these locations

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map

Renting a Car

Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore the Game of Thrones locations in Ireland. A rental car will allow you the flexibility to visit the locations when on your own schedule and plan ahead to avoid the tourist crowds. Driving in Ireland is easy by international standards and the road quality is excellent. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and see places that are simply not possible on group tours or public transport: for example, the lovely Ballintoy Harbour is not accessible by bus or coach.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in over 40 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Book your car now with RentalCars.com , where you will find the best rental car prices

Click here for the best rental car prices

Game of Thrones Tours

If you prefer to join a tour, you can book a Game of Thrones day tour from Dublin or Belfast. The tours include many of the locations below and it is a fantastic way to see everything in one day.

Book from Dublin      Book from Belfast

Where to stay in Northern Ireland

• Roe Park Resort: a great base for exploring the Causeway Coast the Roe Park Resort in Limavady offers spacious rooms, great dining options and golf and spa facilities for relaxation and is a 45 minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway – check latest prices here!
• Crowfield Country House: we love going local and staying in a traditional bed and breakfast. The beautiful Crowfield Country House is one of the best in the area and breakfast is a real treat – check latest prices here!
• Causeway Hotel: located at the Giant’s Causeway the Causeway Hotel is a small hotel full of old world charm. Perfect for an early morning visit to the Giant’s Causeway – check latest prices here!

Click here for the best Causeway Coast hotel prices

Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Ireland

From the Kingsroad, represented by the unique Dark Hedges, to the Dragonstone set on Fair Head Cliffs there are so many iconic locations to be explored.

Spoilers ahead! This Game of Thrones filming guide contains references to specific scenes from Game of Thrones so do exercise caution if you haven’t watched the episodes and want to avoid spoilers!

1 | The Dark Hedges as The Kingsroad

Location: Bregagh Road, between Armoy and Stranocu m in Co. Antrim

The stunning avenue of 18th Century beech trees appeared in Game of Thrones Season 2 Episode 1 when Arya Stark escaped from King’s Landing disguised as a boy.

Until recently it was possible to drive down the actual road itself, however, access has now been restricted to pedestrians to help preserve the future of the trees.

Visitor car access was prohibited at the Dark Hedge in 2019 to reduce the damage to the road that was occuring due to visitors parking on the verge. There is a large, free parking lot at The Hedges Hotel where visitors can park and it’s a short walk to the Dark Hedges.

We had a lot of fun at the Dark Hedges and have visited Bregagh Road many times during our trips throughout Northern Ireland!

Game of Thrones Ireland Tip: The dark hedges are best visited early in the morning before the tour groups arrive at the site. This way you’ll have the road almost to yourself to explore and photograph.

If you’re not afraid of the dark, the dark hedges is a super spooky place to visit after dark. We were lucky enough to drive down the road after dark before the restrictions on cars started. Even when walking the trees are incredible after dark!

2 | Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Linen Mill Studios was the primary studio filming location for all seasons of Game of Thrones. The studio has been turned into an epic Game of Thrones Studio Tour which opened in February 2022. We were lucky enough to visit on the opening weekend and highly recommend it to all Game of Thrones fans. The tour includes dozens of original costumes worn by the cast, many of the original sets used in the show and a unique glimpse into how Game of Thrones was made.

3 | Binevenagh as Dothraki Grasslands

Location: Binevenagh, Limavady, Co. Derry

The summit of Binevenagh showcases panoramic views across Lough Foyle and the Sperrin Mountains.

The area here was used for a number of different scenes, however the most memorable was when Daenerys, having been rescued by her dragon Drogon above the city of Meereen in Season 5 Episode 10, is spotted surrounded by a huge Dothraki horde.

4 | Dunluce Castle as Pyke Castle, House of Greyjoy

Location: Dunluce Road, Bushmills, Co. Antrim

The ruins of the medieval Dunluce Castle are perched on the edge of jutting coastal cliffs overlooking Northern Ireland’s stunning Causeway Coast.

The castle was built in the 1500’s and dramatic tales surround its history with stories of dark spirits inhabiting the castle and the kitchens tumbling into the sea on a stormy night in 1639.

The amazing ruins of Dunluce Castle were used for many of the scenes for the House of Greyjoy, ruler of the Iron Islands. It’s one of our favourite places in Northern Ireland and one we have visited many times, even before Game of Thrones was released.

Seeing the ruins in person is easy to see why the producers of Game of Thrones chose Dunluce Castle as one of the main filming locations.

5 | Fairhead Cliffs as Dragonstone

Location: Fairhead Cliffs, close to Ballycastle, Co. Antrim

Northern Ireland’s tallest cliff face, the Fairhead Cliffs rise hundreds of metres above the Causeway Coast. The cliffs appear in Season 7 Episode 3, The Queens Justice, when Tyrion asks Jon Snow if he can help and where Varys told Melisandre that they would both return and die in ‘this strange country’.

A short walk from the car park will bring you to the edge of these incredible cliffs where a lot of these scenes were filmed.

6 | Cushendun Caves as Storms End

Location:  Cushendun, Co. Antrim

Located right on the eastern coast of Northern Ireland is the small town of Cushendun, the Cushendun Caves are where Davos Seaworth and Lady Melisandre landed ashore in Season 2.

The caves are also the location of the birth of the shadow baby. Make sure to spend some time or grab some lunch in the lovely town of Cushendun which is a short walk from the caves.

7 | Titanic Studios, Belfast

Location: Queens Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim

A lot of the larger indoor sets for filming of Game of Thrones took place inside the gigantic Titanic Studios in the Belfast Docklands. The studios are some of the biggest in Europe and are built on the site where the original Titanic ship was built.

It is here that most of the fixed sets and indoor shoots are made and filmed. On occasion, there are larger sets constructed, including scenes for Season 8.

8 | Tollymore Forest Park as The Haunted Forest

Location: Bryansford Road, Newcastle, Co.Down

Tollymore Forest Park is one of our favourite places to visit in Northern Ireland as the walks and hikes throughout the park are fantastic. and it features regularly in Game of Thrones.

It’s the setting for The Haunted Forest where the Three Night’s Watchmen encounter a White Walker and it is also the scene of Theon Grevjoys escape attempt when he is pursued by Ramsay Snow.

Another notable scene from Tollymore Forest Park is Ned Stark finding the dead stag.

9 | Audley’s Castle, Strangford Lough as Winterfell and Robb’s Camp

Location: Strangford, Co. Down

Audleys Castle at Strangford Lough was chosen as a filming location for several scenes from Season 1 and Season 2. It is the backdrop for King Robert Baratheon’s arrival at Winterfell in Season 1 and Robb’s Camp in Season 2.

Robb first meets Talisa here and it is where Alton Lannister was imprisoned. The area itself is really beautiful and worthy of an afternoon to explore and hunt out all the filming locations from Game of Thrones.

10 | Larrybane Quarry as The Stormlands

Location: Ballintoy, Co.Antrim

Located adjacent to the ever popular Carrick-a-Red Rope Bridge, the Larrybane Quarry is where King Renly set up camp in The Stormlands during Season 2.

The quarry is also where the tournament in which Brienne of Tarth was introduced took place.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations tip: Make sure to check out the Larrybane Quarry when visiting the Carrick-a-Rede Rope. The old quarry is part of the overflow car park!

11 | Ballintoy Harbour as The Iron Islands

Ballintoy harbour was the setting for a number of scenes which were based in the Iron Islands. One of the most notable was for Theon’s return to the Iron Islands as well as some of the areas around Dragonstone.

It was here that Theon first met his sister Yara, was baptised in the name of the Drowned God and paid homage to the ship ‘Sea Bitch’.

Game of Thrones Ireland Tip:  Ballintoy Harbour is only 10 minutes drive from the Giant’s Causeway, one of our favourite attractions on the Casueway Coast. Although the Giant’s Causeway is not a Game of Thrones filming location, the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns are an unmissable stop on the Causeay Coast.

12 | Downhill Beach as Dragonstone

Location: Downhill Strand, Co. Derry

Downhill Beach served as the filming location for Dragonstone, the place where the seven gods of Westeros were sacrificed by Lady Melisandre.

The instantly recognisable Mussenden Temple which overlooks the beach featured prominently in a number of scenes.

13 | Murlough Bay as The Road to Pyke

Location:   northeast coast, Co. Antrim

Hidden away on the northeast coast of Northern Ireland is the beautiful Murlough Bay. This secluded and relatively hard to visit bay was used as the filming location of Theon’s horse ride with his sister Yara and the scene where Davos Seaworth was shipwrecked after the Battle of Blackwater Bay.

It also features in Season 5, Episode 6 when Tyrion Lannister and Ser Jorah Mormont make their way to Mereen and are taken prisoner after being spotted by a passing slave ship.

14 | Castle Ward as Winterfell

Location: Strangford, Co.Down

Castle Ward features as Winterfell’s Courtyard in Game of Thrones and featured a number of times in Season 1. It was here that King Robert Baratheon arrived at Winterfell and was met by Stark during Episode 1 and this was where they talked during the hunt in Episode 2.

Castle Ward made a return in Episode 10 when Bran and Osha were at Winterfell and it is also where Bran, Jon and Robb practised their archery skills.

15 | River Quoile as Riverrun

Location: Co. Down

The Riverlands are home to the Tully’s and the scenes of Hoster Tully’s funeral were shot along the River Quoile.

16 | Portstewart Strand as the Dorne Coast

The sweeping sand dunes of Portstewart Strand are featured in a number of Game of Thrones scenes. The first is in Season 5 when Jamie Lannister and Bronn fight Dornish guards in the dunes. The second is in Season 5, Episode 4 where Ellaria, Obara, Olenna and Nymeria Sand plot a war against the Lannisters.

17 | Inch Abbey as The Twins

Location: Downpatrick, Co. Down

Inch Abbey is another regular filming location used in Game of Thrones. The first and main scene shot here was of Rob Stark’s camp which was located here in season one. It is where he was proclaimed the King of the North after the Battle of Whispering Wood.

The ruins of the abbey are quite beautiful and the views across the River Quoile from here make it one of our favourite Game of Thrones filming locations.

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Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Show (+ Handy Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: February 1, 2024

Although the show finished well over 10 years ago, each week, without fail, we get emails looking for info on the Game of Thrones Ireland connection.

In a nutshell, a whopping 25 different locations in Northern Ireland were used during the filming of the hit HBO series.

Some, like Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges , are well known while others, like the beautiful Tollymore Forest Park and Inch Abbey, tend to get missed.

In the guide below, you’ll discover where to find the different Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations, what scenes they appeared in along with info on Game of Thrones tours.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about the Game of Thrones Ireland connection

Click to enlarge map

Below, you’ll find some quick info about the Game of Thrones Northern Ireland connection that’s worth a quick read before you scroll on past to see the locations.

1. Why Ireland

According to reports, the Game of Thrones Ireland connection could have easily been a Scottish one instead! It’s said that the producers were debating both places, but that Northern Ireland offered incentives (finance, tax relief, studio space and location access) to secure the deal.

2. The filming locations

Although there were reports of 25 Game of Thrones Ireland locations , the main ones are Tollymore Forest Park, Inch Abbey, Castle Ward, Toome Canal, Slemish Mountain, the Glens of Antrim, Cushendun Caves, Murlough Bay, Ballintoy Harbour and The Dark Hedges. Discover more below.

3. The writers met in college in Dublin

Yep, randomly enough, two of the writers for the show, Dan Weiss and David Benioff, met in Dublin while studying at Trinity College in 1995.

Game of Thrones filming locations Ireland map

The map above has the various Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations plotted out on it. As you can see, the bulk are in Antrim and Down.

However, there’s also one (Pollnagollum Cave) over in County Fermanagh. The only thing this map leaves out is the studios in Belfast where certain scenes were recorded.

An overview of each of the Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland

Photos via Shutterstock

It’s time to dive into the different Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland, and there’s plenty to get through.

Below, you’ll discover the places that were used to depict everywhere from Lordsport Harbour and The Stormlands to Dothraki Sea, Slaver’s Bay and more.

1. Murlough Bay (Slaver’s Bay)

The first of our Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations is the glorious Murlough Bay – arguably one of the most overlooked of the many Antrim Coast attractions .

It was here that Tyrion Lannister and Jorah Mormont happened upon on their way to Meereen. Alas, there journey hit a bump when they encountered slavers.

There’s a lovely ramble at Murlough Bay that’ll treat you to views of everything from the Scottish Islands to Rathlin Island on a clear day.

2. Fair Head (Dragonstone Cliffs)

The towering Fair Head Cliffs stand just up along the coast from Murlough Bay where the measure a dizzying 600 feet in height.

The cliffs were used to depict Dragonstone and it was here, on Antrim’s blustery coast, that Jon Snow had an encounter with Daenerys… and her big aul dragon!

If you visit, you’re a stone’s throw from both Torr Head and the town of Ballycastle , where you can grab a bite to eat, if you fancy.

3. Larrybane Quarry (Renly Baratheon’s Camp)

The next Game of Thrones Ireland location is the often-overlooked Larrybane Quarry , which can be found a short distance from the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge .

The quarry was used at Renly Baratheon’s Camp (a section of the Stormlands) and the scene showed Renly and his queen, Margaery Tyrell, watching a battle .

It was also at Larrybane Quarry that Renly met with Catelyn Stark . Now, a warning – this is one of several Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland that doesn’t really resemble what was shown in the show.

4. Ballintoy Harbour (Lordsport Harbour)

Westward from Larrybane Quarry lies Ballintoy Harbour . After descending a steep and narrow road (and I mean narrow)  you’ll reach a small fishing harbour.

The well-protected bay shields the harbour, nearly enclosing it on all sides and making for a very scenic rest stop. Ballintoy was used to depict Lordsport Harbour in Season 2 .

It was at Ballintoy that Theon Greyjoy returned home. It was at Ballintoy that Theon Greyjoy returned home. You’ll find a plaque at the harbour with info on the scene.

5. The Dark Hedges (Road from King’s Landing)

The Dark Hedges are arguably the Game of Thrones Ireland location that receives the most attention online. The trees here were planted in 1775 by James Stuart to make the approach to his Georgian estate more impressive.

The Dark Hedges were used Season 2, episode 1: On the King’ s Road to depict, unsurprisingly enough, the King’s Road.

The scene that they feature in shows Arya Stark escaping from the King’s Landing and travelling with the Night’s Watch, dressed as a boy. You’ll find it a stone’s throw from the Old Bushmills Distillery .

6. Portstewart Strand (Dorne Coast)

Portstewart Strand in Derry is arguably one of the best beaches in Northern Ireland, and it was here, on the nearly 2 miles of glorious sand, that Jamie and Bronn got into a bit of bother .

The pair were captured at Portstewart by some Dornish soldiers. It was also here were Ellaria and the Sand Snakes discussed a going up against the Lannisters .

There’s plenty of things to do in Derry after you visit Portstewart, from the historic Derry City to our next, very close by attraction.

7. Downhill Beach (Dragonstone)

You’ll find few temples in Ireland (or anywhere, really!) with a location as dramatic as Mussenden – a replica of Rome’s Temple of Vesta .

The temple offers a magnificent view over Downhill Beach, which is right next to Portstewart Strand.

If you cast your mind back, it was at Mussenden Temple that Stannis Baratheon rejected the old gods of Westeros and is proclaimed of the Lord of Light.

8. Cushendun Caves (The Stormlands / Shadow Creature Scene)

The Cushendun Caves are another of the better-known Game of Thrones Northern Ireland locations, and a quick glance above should give you an idea as to why.

Formed over a period of 400 million years , the caves can be found a stones throw from the little village of Cushendun , designed in the style of a Cornish village.

The Cushendun Caves were made famous by Game of Thrones in Season 2 Episode 4 where they were used as the Shadow creature’s birth site .

9. Castle Ward (Winterfell)

Photos courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

You’ll find the 16th-century Castle Ward , which was the backdrop for the series pilot and a chunk of season one, just 40 minutes from Belfast.

Castle Ward was used as ‘Winterfell’ – the home of the Stark family . Its towering medieval walls and now-iconic castle tower gate made it an ideal shooting location for the show.

It’s also here that you’ll find what is arguably the most popular Game of Thrones tour Northern Ireland has to offer. More on the tours later in the guide.

10. Inch Abbey (Riverrun)

You’ll discover the ruins of Inch Abbey situated on the northern bank of the Quoile River, where it has been since the 12th or 13th century.

You might recognise Inch Abbey as the setting for the Riverlands scenes , i.e. the beginning of the War of the Five Kings.

If you visit when the weather’s fine, keep an eye out for Downpatrick Cathedral. It’s said that this is where St. Patrick is buried.

11. Dunluce Castle (Pyke Castle)

Home to the House of Greyjoy , GOT fans may not immediately recognise Dunluce Castle as the filming location for Castle Greyjoy, AKA Pyke Castle. This is due to the fact that a fair sprinkling of CGI was used.

However, as you near the ancient castle – originally dating back to the 13th century – you’ll soon see how and why they filmed these scenes here.

Similar to nearby Kinbane Castle and Dunseverick Castle , the ruins of Dunluce Castle are located right next to the sea.

12. Tollymore Forest Park (The Haunted Forest)

Tollymore Forest Park is another of our favoiurite places to visit in Northern Ireland – few parks on earth pack a punch like this place.

This expanse of forest is home to medieval gates, bridges that look like they’ve been plucked from Lord of The Rigs and endless, beautiful red woods.

The park was used to portray The Haunted Forest and it was here where the Starks met their baby Direwolves for the very first time.

13. Slemish Mountain (Dothraki Sea)

Our next Game of Thrones Northern Ireland location has a mighty tale attached to it – it was here, on Slemish Mountain , where St. Patrick was taken…

After he was kidnapped by pirates as a kid! It’s right below the mountain that you’ll find Shillanavogy Valley, which was used to portray Dothraki Sea in the show.

It featured in a scene where Khal Drogo travelled to see his new wife, Vaes Dothrak (it was the land here that he rode across !).

14. Glenariff Forest Park (Runestone)

You’ll find our next location, Glenariff Forest Park , tucked away in the Glens of Antrim , where it’s home to woodland, waterfalls and stunning scenery.

It was here (or Galboly, to be specific) that was used as Runestone in the show . It was Runestone where Lord Yohn Royce took Robyn Arryn.

There was also a scene where Sansa Stark watched as Robyn Arryn tried his hand at dueling. There’s some great walks to tackle here!

15. Binevenagh

Binevenagh Mountain is a Game of Thrones Northern Ireland location that many miss! It was here that Daenerys fled to with her dragon after escaping Meereen.

Binevenagh sits at the outermost edge of the breath-taking Antrim Plateau, and those that conquer the hike here will be treated to views out over Armagh and Derry.

When you finish up, you’re a short spin away from Downhill Beach and Portstewart Strand. You’re also a handy 40-minute drive from the lovely little town of Portrush .

16. Pollnagollum Cave

Our final Game of Thrones Northern Ireland location takes us out to County Fermanagh and into the Marble Arch Caves Geopark (not far from the Cuilcagh boardwalk ).

It’s here that you’ll also find Pollnagollum Cave, where it’s hidden away behind a waterfall. It was here that the Brotherhood Without Banners hid from the forces of Lannister.

There’s plenty of unique things to do in Fermanagh , and the walk out to see the waterfall is just one of them!

Game of Thrones tours from Belfast

Thanks to the Game of Thrones Northern Ireland connection, a handful of tours have sprung up that make the perfect day trip from Belfast .

We’ve featured several of them in this guide over the years, but only one has maintained consistently good reviews – this one (affiliate link).

This is a 9-hour tour that’ll take you to everywhere from Dunluce Castle and Ballintoy Harbour to popular locations that weren’t used during filming, like Carrickfergus Castle and the Giant’s Causeway .

Review wise, they’ve racked up 4.6/5 from 890+ reviews, at the time of typing.

Check prices + read reviews here

Game of Thrones Northern Ireland FAQs

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from where can you get a Game of Thrones filming locations Ireland map to what scenes were shot here.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the Game of Thrones Ireland connection?

The Game of Thrones Ireland connection is that many scenes for the HBO series were shot here over a number of years, for example, Ballintoy Harbour and Cushendun Caves.

Where are the Game of Thrones filming locations in Ireland?

The main Game of Thrones Ireland locations are: Tollymore Forest Park, Inch Abbey, Castle Ward, Toome Canal, Slemish Mountain and the Glens of Antrim. See above for the rest.

Where was Game of Thrones filmed?

Although there’s a strong Game of Thrones Ireland link, the show was filmed across the world, with locations in Malta, Iceland, Croatia and more.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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7 Best Game of Thrones Tours in Europe (Updated)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: November 5, 2023

Are you a fan of the famous TV series Game of Thrones, looking to visit some of the most spectacular GoT filming locations, but not sure where to start?

In this article, we are highlighting some of the best Game of Thrones tours in Iceland, Ireland, Croatia, Malta, and Spain .

Update: This post was originally published when Game of Thrones was extremely popular and there were lots of amazing GOT tours to choose from. At the moment of the last update, some of the best tours were still available, but quite a few tours at several locations have been discontinued. Nevertheless, we did our best to select the very best Game of Thrones tours that are available, with a short explanation of what you can expect. Take a look!

TIP: Before we continue to the best Game of Thrones tours for each destination, I would like to quickly tell you why you should consider joining an organized tour when visiting the Game of Thrones filming locations. Read on!

Why you should visit Game of Thrones filming locations with a tour

If you are like us, you value individual travel above anything else. However, there are certain experiences that you simply cannot have on your own. Game of Thrones tours are like that.

While you could do your own research about where Game of Thrones is filmed and visit most of the Game of Thrones filming locations on your own, specialized GoT tours usually offer a much more unique experience.

Some Game of Thrones tours will have actors who appeared on the HBO TV series or people who met the cast and the crew as your guides. They usually share some insider stories and behind-the-scenes gossip. As a minimum, tour guides are usually big Game of Thrones fans extremely well familiar with the series and all the scenes filmed at the specific location.

Furthermore, exploring the Game of Thrones filming locations with local tour guides has many other advantages :

• Expert local guides with excellent insider knowledge of the location.
• GoT tour guides will not only tell you the history of the places you visit but also about the specific scenes filmed there, share insider stories and anecdotes.
• Taking a tour allows you to see a lot in a short time without doing any prior research.
• Quality Game of Thrones tours not only cover the key filming locations but make sure to also bring you to some other amazing places nearby. That way you also get to see some stunning gems that you would have probably missed when focusing your research solely on the Game of Thrones filming locations.

Below you can find a selection of authentic Game of Thrones tours in some of the best-known filming locations in Europe . Read on!

Here are some of the best GOT tours in Europe:

Game of Thrones Tour Iceland

I think it’s safe to say that Game of Thrones had a big impact on Iceland’s tourism industry. Ever since Iceland was featured in the second season of the popular TV series, the number of tourists grew faster than ever before. In fact, it nearly doubled in the 4 years after Iceland’s first appearance in the Game of Thrones… So it’s probably not a coincidence…

While I strongly believe that Iceland is always worth a trip and there is much more to Iceland than what you see in this TV series, true Game of Thrones fans will, of course, be glad to hear that there is a special Game of Thrones tour in Iceland . At the moment, there is only one (private) tour that is focused entirely on visiting some of the famous Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland.

Not only will you see some spectacular sceneries, but you’ll also hear stories about the making of the movie, the famous scenes that were filmed there, and get the chance to meet Icelandic horses that were featured in the Game of Thrones as Westeros garrons.

This Game of Thrones Iceland tour starts in Reykjavik and runs in all seasons, making it a perfect day trip for all the GoT fans visiting Iceland.

TIP: If you are planning a trip to Iceland, make sure to check our Iceland travel guide as well. It features practical tips, travel itineraries, and lots of travel inspiration for this unique country.

Game of Thrones Tour Ireland

Northern Ireland is one of the destinations that has the biggest number of Game of Thrones filming locations. So it will come as no surprise that this highly-rated Game of Thrones tour from Dublin takes an entire day. But what a day it is!

The tour is no longer called ‘Game of Thrones tour’, but the itinerary remains the same as before. You will see many of the most amazing scenic locations featured in the series, like the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, Glens of Antrim, and of course the famous Giant’s Causeway. Giant’s Causeway is not a GoT filming location, but no tour of Northern Ireland would be complete without a stop here! In addition, the tour also stops in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland.

Just like all the other Game of Thrones tours in this selection, this tour is run by local guides whose insider knowledge and storytelling make it an unforgettable experience. However, since the interest in GOT tours has decreased, this tour is no longer specifically focused on the series.

This full-day Ireland Game of Thrones tour starts in Dublin and runs the whole year round. It’s a great way to see some of the most spectacular scenery and the highlights of Northern Ireland for everyone, not just Game of Thrones fans. So if you are traveling to Dublin and have a day to spare, I definitely recommend this as one of the absolute best day trips in Ireland.

TIP: If you are visiting Northern Ireland and are looking for the Game of Thrones tour from Belfast , check out this most popular GOT filming locations tour from Belfast .

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour in Croatia

Croatia has quite a few Game of Thrones filming locations. The first and the most popular is definitely Dubrovnik .

As King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, Dubrovnik has been the setting of countless Game of Thrones scenes ever since season 2. It’s, therefore, one of the must-see filming locations for any GOT fan.

This Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik is perfect for all first-time visitors because it gives you a short introduction to the Old Town of Dubrovnik as well. And just in case you are wondering, Dubrovnik Old Town has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List long before it was made famous by the Game of Thrones TV series.

This Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik takes just 2 hours and brings you to all the filming locations in the Old Town and also to the Fort of St. Lawrence, just outside the walled city. It’s an absolute must for all Game of Thrones fans.

Here you can find more details, check availability, and book your Dubrovnik GOT tour .

Game of Thrones Tours in Split, Croatia

Split is somewhat less popular among international visitors than Dubrovnik, but pretty much everyone I know who visited Croatia, says that they prefer Split over Dubrovnik. We recently visited Croatia and I have to say that both Split and Dubrovnik are worth a visit. And they are completely different to even try to compare.

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and is full of history – a perfect filming location featured in several different seasons of the Game of Thrones.

If you find yourself in Split and have a few hours to spare, then a Game of Thrones walking tour through the Old Town of Split must be on your radar! Fans will recognize the 4th century Diocletian’s Palace, which was used as Daenerys Targaryen’s throne room in Meereen. The tour covers Golden gate, Vestibul, and of course all the cellars, corridors, and streets that you’ll recognize from your favorite TV series.

There are many different Game of Thrones tours in Split . Most of them are rather short and just focus on the filming locations in the Old Town. If you are looking for a short tour covering the highlights, then this 1,5-hour GOT tour in Spilt is probably the best you’ll find price/quality-wise. If, however, you are looking for a more special experience, take a look at the tour highlighted further.

What sets this tour apart is that in addition to Game of Thrones filming locations in Split Old Town it also takes you to the mountainside fortress of Klis, just outside the city. Medieval Klis Fortress previously only known to locals became a popular tourist destination after it was used as the city of Meereen in season 4 of Game of Thrones.

It also visits Žrnovnica , the place of the famous bathing scene of Missandei, Danaerys’s trusted maid and interpreter. In addition, this tour also includes a Game of Thrones-style dinner on location.

This Game of Thrones tour in Split takes about 6 hours and runs between April and October. Check it out!

Here you can find more details, check availability, and book this unique GOT tour in Split .

Game of Thrones Tour in Malta

Malta was one of the original Game of Thrones filming locations. A big part of season 1 was filmed here, so if you’re nostalgic about the good old days of Game of Thrones, Malta is the place to be.

Some of the best GoT filming locations in Malta are the 17th-century Fort Ricasoli, San Anton Palace, and also Saint Dominic’s Priory – all of which you’ll recognize as the Red Keep. But probably the most impressive is Mdina.

Mdina is a fortified medieval town and Malta’s original capital. Perched high on the hill on top of the island, this walled city with a labyrinth of narrow streets and King’s Landing-style alleys is a must-see place for all Game of Thrones fans.

This full-day Malta Game of Thrones tour covers all the significant filming locations. In addition, it’s a great way to see some of the best historic spots on the island. This GoT tour is a must for all die-hard fans of Game of Thrones.

Here you can find more details, check availability, and book your Game of Thrones tour in Malta . However, at the moment of writing, it only runs once a week. Alternatively, you can book a private customizable tour in Malta and ask them to bring you to all the GOT filming locations.

Game of Thrones Tour in Girona Spain

There are many Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain, scattered all over the country. So unless you have a couple of weeks in Spain, it would be tough to see them all.

In this selection, we feature a Game of Thrones tour in Girona and also one in Seville, in Southern Spain – see further below.

Girona is a beautiful medieval town just a 1.5hr drive from Barcelona and you can visit Girona as a day trip. It was one of the Game of Thrones filming locations in season 6 that immediately put Girona on the radar of many international visitors.

For true Game of Thrones fans, I recommend this highly-rated small-group GOT tour in Girona . Guides introduce you to the popular characters and the key filming locations. They also show pictures from the film set in Girona, making it easy to recognize the places you’ve seen on TV. This Game of Thrones tour is also your unique opportunity to explore Girona and soak up its great atmosphere with an insider.

TIP: If you are looking for a Game of Thrones tour from Barcelona, you could just take a train to Girona and join the tour mentioned above – it’s really the best GOT tour. In addition, there is also an organized GOT tour from Barcelona . But from what I see based on customer reviews, it’s more a tour of Girona than a Game of Thrones tour.

TIP: If you are looking for a great day trip from Barcelona, you may want to visit Montserrat Monastery . Here you can read our Montserrat tour review .

Game of Thrones Tour in Seville, Spain

Royal Alcazar of Seville is said to be one of those Game of Thrones filming locations that looks even more beautiful and special in reality than it does in the film. And that probably says it all… So if you find yourself in southern Spain, don’t miss the chance to see the Kingdom of Dorne in real life!

This Moorish palace dates back to 913, but has been rebuilt, renovated, and updated several times. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and worth a visit on its own. It is also the oldest European royal palace in Europe that is still used today (the upper chambers of the Alcazar are used by the Spanish royal family).

Royal Alcazar of Seville might not look very impressive from the outside, but once you step inside, you find one of the most spectacular Game of Thrones filming locations, almost too beautiful to be true. Not to be missed!

Here you can find more details, check availability, and book your Game of Thrones tour in Seville, Spain – the primary filming location for the kingdom of Dorne.

READ ALSO: How to Spend One Day in Seville

So, this is our hand-picked selection of some of the very best Game of Thrones tours available in Europe at the moment. If you are a Game of Thrones fan dreaming about seeing some of the most famous GoT filming locations, now you know that there are excellent options in a variety of destinations where this popular series was filmed.

If your travels bring you to Reykjavik, Dublin, Dubrovnik, Split, Barcelona, Seville, or Malta, don’t miss the unique opportunity and join one of these authentic Game of Thrones tours!

More inspiration for traveling to some of the GOT-filming destinations:

• Croatia: Croatia Itinerary including Split and Dubrovnik.
• Spain: Best Things to Do in Barcelona & Barcelona in 2 Days & 1 Day in Barcelona .
• Iceland: Best Places to See in Iceland .

READ ALSO: Best Time to Visit Europe & How to Plan a Trip to Europe

If you enjoyed reading this post, don’t forget to bookmark it for future reference and share it with your friends who are Game of Thrones fans as well. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Friday 6th of March 2020

It doesn't appear that KKDay has the GOT Ireland tours any longer, fyi. I did a search on the site after I clicked on the link and it didn't turn up any results.

This is strange. Thank you so much for letting me know, Beth. I'll investigate this. In the meantime, you can find a small selection of GOT tours in Ireland here.

Tim Scheybeler

Wednesday 12th of February 2020

We will be in Barcelona in 3 weeks from now and would love to take the tour of Girona's G.O.T sites if that is possible. I am guessing that they run every day. Do you have any contact numbers that we could use to get in contact with these people and actually set up the needed exchange of info and money for tickets etc.

Monday 17th of February 2020

Hi Tim, you can just book the tours online and you'll get all the information - place and time where to be, etc. There is no need to call anyone or set up anything. We have a tour linked to in the article. Alternatively, here is one more Girona GOT tour from Barcelona. It only runs a few times a week though, but maybe you can find a day that suits you. Otherwise, here is a Girona GOT tour that runs daily. However, this one starts in Girona, so you first have to take a train to get there (shouldn't be too difficult). Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip! PS If you are looking for more tips for Barcelona, we have quite a few articles on the blog - check out here - Barcelona.

Game of Thrones Locations

• Astapor Astapor is an ancient independent city-state known for slavery. The Red City was founded before the Valyrian Freehold and outlived two empires.
• Braavos Braavos is the wealthiest and most powerful of the Free Cities of Essos, as it houses institutions like the Iron Bank and Faceless Men.
• Casterly Rock Casterly Rock is the seat of House Lannister. It has a deep history dating to the era of the Children, the First Men, and the Andals.
• Castle Black Castle Black is one of the three out of nineteen castles used by the Watch, the remaining two being Eastwatch-by-the-Sea and the Shadow Tower.
• Citadel The Citadel is the headquarters of the order of maesters. It houses the Conclave, which determines when seasons change.
• Dorne Dorne is a constituent region that makes up the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. It is a peninsula in the southernmost part of the continent.
• Dothraki Sea The Dothraki Sea got inhabited by different Khalasars fighting each other for dominance. When a Khalasar got destroyed, the people got sold into slavery.
• Dragonstone In Game of Thrones, Dragonstone is a unique castle in existence. It features architectural wonders impossible to replicate.
• Fourteen Flames The Fourteen Flames was a massive ring of volcanoes around Valyria. There were mines underneath with slaves searching for gold, silver, and other metals.
• The Free City of Lys The Free City of Lys values trade over anything. As a mercantile state, its rulers are magisters from the wealthiest families.
• Free City of Tyrosh The Free City of Tyrosh got founded as a Valyrian military outpost. It quickly grew to become a wealthy city after a rare snail got discovered.
• Harrenhal Harrenhal holds the title of the largest castle in the seven kingdoms. Its sheer size made it a wonder of Westeros until its destruction.
• House Baratheon House Baratheon of Storm's End is a great house of Westeros. It rules the Stormlands with the title Lord Paramount of the Stormlands.
• Iron Bank of Braavos The Iron Bank of Braavos is the mightiest financial institution in Essos. It was founded alongside Braavos by wealthy men and women who escaped captivity.
• Iron Islands The Iron Islands is a region ruled by House Greyjoy at Pyke. With Aegon I's ascension to the Iron Throne, the Greyjoys got reduced to lords.
• King's Landing King's Landing is the second largest city in Westeros. Having housed the government since Aegon I Targaryen, it is a massive trade hub.
• Meereen Meereen is one of the oldest cities in Essos. It is among the few remaining settlements of the dead empire of Ghis with an intricate slavery culture.
• Old Empire of Ghis The Old Empire of Ghis was an Empire before the age of the dragons. Its capital was Old Ghis in southwest Ghiscar, east across the Gulf of Grief.
• Pentos Pentos is one of the nine Free Cities of Essos. It is a populous port city that deals in trade and commerce of products across the Narrow Sea.
• Qarth Qarth is an ancient port city on the southern coast of Essos. It got called the Queen of Cities, a self-proclaimed title it shared with Yunkai.
• Riverrun Riverrun governs the most fertile region in Westeros. It imposed taxes on subordinate houses making it gain immense wealth.
• Sept of Faith A Sept of Faith is a building where followers of the Faith of the Seven worship the seven deities according to Andal customs.
• The Fist of the First Men The Fist of the First Men is a hill in the Haunted Forest beyond the Wall. It was crucial to the Night's Watch during the Great Ranging.
• The Free City of Myr The Free City of Myr is a mercantile state in Essos with incredible artisans and a knowledge-hungry population.
• The Trident The Trident is a big river with three primary feeders, the Red Fork, the Blue Fork, and the Green Fork.
• The Vale The Vale of Arryn, or as it is also known, the Vale, is one of the constituent regions that make up the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.
• The Wall In Game of Thrones, The Wall serves as the boundary between northern and southern Westeros. It got built to protect humanity from the undead.
• Valyria During the height of its reign, Valyria was an unstoppable force that pummeled all its opposers to ash.
• Volantis Volantis, or Old Volantis, is one of the oldest existing cities on the continent of Essos. As one of the richest, proudest, and most senior of the nine free cities, it has a rich and deep history that began after the fall of the Old Empire of Ghis.
• White Harbor White Harbor is a crucial port city southeast of Winterfell. Because of its geography, it has a lot of people from the southern cities of Westeros.
• Winterfell Constructed by Brandon the Builder, the famed creator of House Stark, Winterfell was a fortress for the Starks for 8000 years until the War of the Five Kings.
• Wolfswood The wolfswood is a forest in the North. To its south is Torrhen's Square, and to its southeast is Winterfell.
• Yunkai Yunkai is one of the great Ghiscari city-states of Slaver's Bay in central Essos. It has a terrible reputation for its dealings in slavery.

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The 20 best places to visit in Croatia that aren’t Dubrovnik

Posted: 1 March 2024 | Last updated: 22 April 2024

The secret is out (thanks to Game of Thrones ): Croatia’s “hidden gem” status is long gone, as millions flock to this part of the Mediterranean each year — particularly Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian Coast. However, the oddly-shaped country is diverse, from the sea to the mountains and every city and town in between. Here are 20 top destinations to visit in Croatia! 

Croatia’s capital is often skipped by travelers who fly directly into Dubrovnik or Split, but it shouldn’t be. The city is full of excellent museums (over 30), including the world-famous Museum of Broken Relationships. There are also numerous trendy cafes, cool ruin bars, and the top restaurants in the country. It’s also a wonderful place to stroll through cobblestone streets, rainbow buildings, and beautiful gardens.

You may also like: 18 worldwide destinations perfect for nature lovers

Plitvice National Park

You know those shots of cascading waterfalls you see on Instagram from your college roommate on an extended Eurotrip? There’s a high chance they were taken in Croatia, and if so, very likely in the breathtaking Plitvice National Park. You’ll find deep green forests and electric blue water of varying shades cascading over cliffs and flowing into lakes. Enjoy hikes, walks over the water via boardwalks and boat rides — all with spectacular scenery.

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In this small town near Plitvice, the mini waterfalls literally flow right through town. Wander the streets and enjoy views of falls that flow through the old buildings and into the river below. Perhaps stop for a cafe and stay a while or take one of the walking tracks above town for a new vantage point.

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The largest town on the Istria Peninsula and a decent-sized port, Pula is another common entry point for visitors flying into the country. It makes for a good base for exploring the peninsula, is home to numerous pizzerias, and is one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in Europe.

The best-known of Istrian hill towns, Motovun, sits inland from Rovinj and Poreč. This Medieval town sits above the lovely countryside. The village makes a great base for exploring hill country or a nice day trip from other parts of the peninsula. It’s also home to a great film festival every summer. Just note you can’t actually drive in the Old Town; you’ll need to park outside the city walls and walk in.

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Another cute Istrian port town, Poreč is a popular resort getaway in Croatia. There are plenty of nearby beaches, bars, cafes, and restaurants to keep you occupied. However, the main draw of Poreč is the sixth-century UNESCO World Heritage basilica — don’t miss this on your visit!

Arguably Istria’s most interesting location, the town is like a mini-fairytale version of Motovun. On a hill, Grožnjan houses a music school and several galleries. Thus it’s common to hear notes playing throughout the streets as you stroll.

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A cute inland place to wander on the peninsula, the main draw here is Vodnjan’s mummies. Yes, you read the right. In the Church of St. Blaise, you’ll find the mummies of six saints and their stories. There’s also a lot of interesting street art for such a small place.

Most popular among Austrian retirees, Opatija is absolutely worth a stop for wonderful food and views. It’s also home to a number of mansions from the Habsburg period — an interesting contrast to much of the coast. And, if you visit outside of peak season, you’ll likely have it all to yourself. 

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One of the better-known destinations on this list, Split is one of those cities that doesn’t require much planning. Just show up, wander the waterfront promenade, check out Diocletian’s Palace (now converted into a living, breathing museum with restaurants and shops right in the ruins), and enjoy some of Croatia’s best restaurants.

Often called Croatia’s coolest city, Zadar will have you wanting to extend your stay after just a few minutes. The former Italian enclave is home to some of the country’s trendiest bars and restaurants, as well as Roman ruins. Not to mention, Alfred Hitchcock said sunsets here were unmatched, and most would be inclined to agree. These days, if you head down to the sea, you can enjoy the sounds of the Sea Organ, an instrument constructed of holes drilled into the marble of the boardwalk, essentially organ pipes below the water. The same artist put together another installation, called “Greeting the Sun,” just down the shore, constructed of lights that change color periodically. 

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Just south of Zadar lies a smaller version of Dubrovnik, home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites — St. James Cathedral and St. Nicholas Fortress. The promenade has some of the best views on the coast, and St. Michael’s Fortress, while not UNESCO recognized, has some of the best views of the town.

For the perfect day trip from Split, book one of the many boat tours or ferries that stop in Trogir. Home to an exceptionally preserved Old Town that is UNESCO designated, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect scenes. There are also quite a few good cafes for such a small place.

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Krka National Park

Between Zadar and Split lies Croatia’s second-most-popular destination for epic waterfalls and nature walks. Don’t miss the Skradinski — Krka’s biggest waterfall, Burnum Roman ruins, and the Krka Monastery. If you have more time, take a boat ride to the small island of Visovac or hike to the viewpoint above it!

Croatia’s party island is home to the best nightlife in the area. It’s also one of the most popular boat trips from Split and Dubrovnik. However, there’s so much more than just bars and clubs. Explore the historic old town, go wine and olive oil tasting, hike up the Spanish Fortress, or rent a car and explore the island outside of Hvar Town!

You may also like: 20 tips for growing a thriving herb garden

The wine island and one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, this is a favorite among both Croatian and international visitors. Sample unique varietals like Grk and Croatian classics like Plavac Mali and Pošip. You can even organize bike tours to different wineries! There are also numerous trails around the island and many cuisines offered at the restaurants. 

Nightlife here rivals Hvar and is a bit less upscale and pretentious than on the larger island. However, Pag has more than parties to explore. Check out the old Roman aqueduct under Pag Town, enjoy a mud bath at Lokunja Beach, or explore the ghost town that is the Old Pag Town a few miles outside the current center.

You may also like: 13 delicious coffee drinks found around the world

The greenest island in the country, Mljet is a nature-lovers paradise. It’s also home to amazing wine, cheese, and beautiful beaches. And don’t miss Veliko and Malo Jezero, the two salted lakes on the island!

Not to be confused with the national park with a similar name, Krk is an island near the Istria peninsula that you can drive directly on via the Krk Bridge. It’s also the largest island in the Adriatic and very popular if you want to camp. Due to its size, the island has a diverse landscape, and you can explore dense forests one day and rocky coastline the next. Perfect for those looking for a bit of an outdoor adventure!

You may also like: 20 items you should declutter from your home right now

This seaside village is reminiscent of Italy — the colorful architecture, the gelato, pizza, and cafes, all along the stunning Mediterranean waterfront. The winding alleys through the Old Town will only have you lost for a moment before you pop out for an adorable cafe or a viewpoint of the surrounding area.

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The 20 best places to visit in Croatia that aren’t Dubrovnik

The secret is out (thanks to Game of Thrones ): Croatia’s “hidden gem” status is long gone, as millions flock to this part of the Mediterranean each year — particularly Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian Coast. However, the oddly-shaped country is diverse, from the sea to the mountains and every city and town in between. Here are 20 top destinations to visit in Croatia! 

Croatia’s capital is often skipped by travelers who fly directly into Dubrovnik or Split, but it shouldn’t be. The city is full of excellent museums (over 30), including the world-famous Museum of Broken Relationships. There are also numerous trendy cafes, cool ruin bars, and the top restaurants in the country. It’s also a wonderful place to stroll through cobblestone streets, rainbow buildings, and beautiful gardens.

Plitvice National Park

You know those shots of cascading waterfalls you see on Instagram from your college roommate on an extended Eurotrip? There’s a high chance they were taken in Croatia, and if so, very likely in the breathtaking Plitvice National Park. You’ll find deep green forests and electric blue water of varying shades cascading over cliffs and flowing into lakes. Enjoy hikes, walks over the water via boardwalks and boat rides — all with spectacular scenery.

In this small town near Plitvice, the mini waterfalls literally flow right through town. Wander the streets and enjoy views of falls that flow through the old buildings and into the river below. Perhaps stop for a cafe and stay a while or take one of the walking tracks above town for a new vantage point.

The largest town on the Istria Peninsula and a decent-sized port, Pula is another common entry point for visitors flying into the country. It makes for a good base for exploring the peninsula, is home to numerous pizzerias, and is one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in Europe.

The best-known of Istrian hill towns, Motovun, sits inland from Rovinj and Poreč. This Medieval town sits above the lovely countryside. The village makes a great base for exploring hill country or a nice day trip from other parts of the peninsula. It’s also home to a great film festival every summer. Just note you can’t actually drive in the Old Town; you’ll need to park outside the city walls and walk in.

Another cute Istrian port town, Poreč is a popular resort getaway in Croatia. There are plenty of nearby beaches, bars, cafes, and restaurants to keep you occupied. However, the main draw of Poreč is the sixth-century UNESCO World Heritage basilica — don’t miss this on your visit!

Arguably Istria’s most interesting location, the town is like a mini-fairytale version of Motovun. On a hill, Grožnjan houses a music school and several galleries. Thus it’s common to hear notes playing throughout the streets as you stroll.

A cute inland place to wander on the peninsula, the main draw here is Vodnjan’s mummies. Yes, you read the right. In the Church of St. Blaise, you’ll find the mummies of six saints and their stories. There’s also a lot of interesting street art for such a small place.

Most popular among Austrian retirees, Opatija is absolutely worth a stop for wonderful food and views. It’s also home to a number of mansions from the Habsburg period — an interesting contrast to much of the coast. And, if you visit outside of peak season, you’ll likely have it all to yourself. 

One of the better-known destinations on this list, Split is one of those cities that doesn’t require much planning. Just show up, wander the waterfront promenade, check out Diocletian’s Palace (now converted into a living, breathing museum with restaurants and shops right in the ruins), and enjoy some of Croatia’s best restaurants.

Often called Croatia’s coolest city, Zadar will have you wanting to extend your stay after just a few minutes. The former Italian enclave is home to some of the country’s trendiest bars and restaurants, as well as Roman ruins. Not to mention, Alfred Hitchcock said sunsets here were unmatched, and most would be inclined to agree. These days, if you head down to the sea, you can enjoy the sounds of the Sea Organ, an instrument constructed of holes drilled into the marble of the boardwalk, essentially organ pipes below the water. The same artist put together another installation, called “Greeting the Sun,” just down the shore, constructed of lights that change color periodically. 

Just south of Zadar lies a smaller version of Dubrovnik, home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites — St. James Cathedral and St. Nicholas Fortress. The promenade has some of the best views on the coast, and St. Michael’s Fortress, while not UNESCO recognized, has some of the best views of the town.

For the perfect day trip from Split, book one of the many boat tours or ferries that stop in Trogir. Home to an exceptionally preserved Old Town that is UNESCO designated, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect scenes. There are also quite a few good cafes for such a small place.

Krka National Park

Between Zadar and Split lies Croatia’s second-most-popular destination for epic waterfalls and nature walks. Don’t miss the Skradinski — Krka’s biggest waterfall, Burnum Roman ruins, and the Krka Monastery. If you have more time, take a boat ride to the small island of Visovac or hike to the viewpoint above it!

Croatia’s party island is home to the best nightlife in the area. It’s also one of the most popular boat trips from Split and Dubrovnik. However, there’s so much more than just bars and clubs. Explore the historic old town, go wine and olive oil tasting, hike up the Spanish Fortress, or rent a car and explore the island outside of Hvar Town!

The wine island and one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, this is a favorite among both Croatian and international visitors. Sample unique varietals like Grk and Croatian classics like Plavac Mali and Pošip. You can even organize bike tours to different wineries! There are also numerous trails around the island and many cuisines offered at the restaurants. 

Nightlife here rivals Hvar and is a bit less upscale and pretentious than on the larger island. However, Pag has more than parties to explore. Check out the old Roman aqueduct under Pag Town, enjoy a mud bath at Lokunja Beach, or explore the ghost town that is the Old Pag Town a few miles outside the current center.

The greenest island in the country, Mljet is a nature-lovers paradise. It’s also home to amazing wine, cheese, and beautiful beaches. And don’t miss Veliko and Malo Jezero, the two salted lakes on the island!

Not to be confused with the national park with a similar name, Krk is an island near the Istria peninsula that you can drive directly on via the Krk Bridge. It’s also the largest island in the Adriatic and very popular if you want to camp. Due to its size, the island has a diverse landscape, and you can explore dense forests one day and rocky coastline the next. Perfect for those looking for a bit of an outdoor adventure!

This seaside village is reminiscent of Italy — the colorful architecture, the gelato, pizza, and cafes, all along the stunning Mediterranean waterfront. The winding alleys through the Old Town will only have you lost for a moment before you pop out for an adorable cafe or a viewpoint of the surrounding area.

Sydney is a writer and language nerd from Seattle. She’s lived in Sydney, Montreal, and Luxembourg and is always on the lookout for her next adventure. When she isn’t downing another cup of coffee or conjugating verbs, you can find her in the mountains or near the water. She writes about travel, lifestyle, and language all over the internet. 

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Game Of Thrones MMO Reportedly In Development

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

We might be getting another chance to revisit our favorite people and places from Game of Thrones . That’s according to a new report from Witcher and Game of Thrones news site Redanian Intelligence, which claims that an MMORPG set during the height of the HBO series is in the works. Here’s what we know.

The report claims that the MMO is currently in development at Nexon. The South Korean publisher is responsible for games like multiplayer FPS title THE FINALS , which was developed by subsidiary studio Embark. However, the report from Redanian Intelligence did not include information on what studio within Nexon is making the Game of Thrones MMO.

Most intriguing is the alleged setting of the game. Sources claim that the MMO will take place in the middle of the HBO show, specifically between the fourth and fifth seasons. Setting an MMO (which ideally would run for years and have an extensive story) in the middle of an already occurring story that we know the conclusion of sounds like a tough challenge for the game’s narrative.

It’s an understandable choice in theory, but the show ended five years ago, leaving most fans disappointed . Either fans will be eager to return to an era of Westeros unplagued by the show’s ending, or they will be too burned by that ending to have any interest at all. Only time will tell. For those familiar with Game of Thrones, the game will take place at a time when Roose Bolton rules the north and Jon Snow still resides on the Wall. This will come into play as the game is apparently set in the North, with locations like Winterfell and the Wall to be featured. Don’t expect the show’s actors to voice their characters, though, as the report says that at this time none of the original cast are involved.

The main detail we got from the report about how the game will play is that players will be able to choose between a male and female protagonist. Whichever protagonist players don’t choose will still be involved in the game’s story in some way. Perhaps it will be handled similarly to Mass Effect: Andromeda ’s dual protagonists. Now that doesn’t exactly sound like an MMO. Perhaps it’s more of an online single-player game, but the report specifically calls the project an MMORPG.

The report also doesn’t give a timeline for the game, so we don’t know when to expect it or how long the title may have been in development so far. Hopefully it doesn’t get canceled before seeing the light of day, like the last MMO set in Westeros. R.I.P Game of Thrones: Seven Kingdoms .

For the latest news, Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

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Canceled Game of Thrones Spinoff Creator Reveals New Details About the HBO Series

Game of Thrones spinoff 10,000 Ships creator Brian Helgeland shared new details about the cancelled HBO series.

• Brian Helgeland envisioned an epic Game of Thrones spinoff, 10,000 Ships , chronicling Queen Nymeria's journey before GoT events.
• Despite a well-received script mirroring Moses' story, HBO hesitated due to time gap with original series.
• Inspired by iconic tales, Helgeland hoped for a creative partnership with George R. R. Martin for the compelling show.

Acclaimed writer Brian Helgeland recently shed light on why the Game of Thrones spinoff, 10,000 Ships , failed to proceed at HBO despite its initial promise.

10,000 Ships was designed to portray the epic saga of Queen Nymeria, set a millennium before the events fans witnessed in Game of Thrones . Helgeland envisioned a rich storyline with adventure and historical intrigue, centered around this formidable ruler known from a brief mention in a Westeros encyclopedia. Despite his enthusiasm and a well-received script, the project hit a snag.

According to Helgeland during an interview with Inverse , the significant time gap between the story and the original series was a major factor in HBO's hesitation. Helegaland said:

" It came out great, but I think they felt the period of my show was too far removed from the pillars of the original. That's why it hasn't been picked up yet, but nothing is ever dead. My script was based on Queen Nymeria and this little blurb about her that was in a Westeros encyclopedia."

Brian Helgeland's Vision for 10,000 Ships Mixes Classic Myth with Game of Thrones Lore

The 10,000 Ships series, which was penned by writer Amanda Segel in 2021 , proposed to chronicle the story of Princess Nymeria, who fled Essos for Dorne after her people suffered a devastating defeat at the hands of the Valyrian Freehold during the Second Spice War.

Helgeland planned 10,000 Ships to mirror the biblical exodus of Moses, with Nymeria at the helm of a massive flotilla seeking sanctuary. This analogy extended to the depiction of a nomadic existence on a gigantic raft city, a floating metropolis that symbolized the transient hopes of an entire civilization. Helgeland said:

" Essentially, it was the story of Moses but swapping him out for Nymeria. Her country gets ruined and her people are forced to live on the water, which is why the show was called 10,000 Ships. They end up having to leave and find a new home like the Israelites leaving Egypt. She's leading all these people, trying to hold everyone together but things are always in danger of falling apart as they travel around a fictionalized version of the Mediterranean, looking for a new home to settle in."

Every Canceled Game of Thrones Spinoff We’ll Never Get to See

Helgeland drew inspiration from various iconic tales of adventure and mythology. He explained:

" It was kind of like Ray Harryhausen's Sinbad films mixed with The Odyssey. In a way, Nymeria is Odysseus, but instead of a 12-person crew, she's responsible for every citizen in this floating city-state. My work is still there if HBO wants to pick it up. I enjoyed my time developing it, and you just never know."

Despite the promising concept and an endorsement from George R.R. Martin himself, 10,000 Ships encountered the harsh realities of television production . Helgeland lamented the limited opportunity to collaborate closely with Martin, hinting at what might have been a fruitful creative partnership. For Helgeland, the hope remains that Nymeria’s tale might one day set sail.

Game Of Thrones: Jon Snow’s Best Quotes

Game Of Thrones is filled with eloquent characters and great writing, and Jon Snow as one of the primary protagonists has a list of great quotes.

• The best one-liners in Game of Thrones hold hidden moments of significant character development.
• Jon Snow's wisdom and love shaped key moments in the history of the series.
• Jon Snow's journey from loyalty to the Night's Watch to a leader of men symbolizes his growth and choices.

Game of Thrones is a fascinating show, filled with incredible characters, huge fight scenes, intricate plots, and a lot of truly great writing. Not only have the many different characters that starred in the show all got highlight reels filled with great writing from throughout the show, but looking back now, many significant character development moments were hidden in the best one-liners.

Game Of Thrones: 9 Worst Decisions Made By Jon Snow

Jon Snow is one of the characters who can truly be considered a primary protagonist. Despite most characters being a shade of gray in Game of Thrones , Jon Snow was always one of the most clear-cut white knight figures, and his best quotes signify some of the most significant moments in the history of the series.

Updated April 25, 2024 by Chris Harkin: There are so many fantastic moments throughout Game of Thrones that it is difficult to choose just a few to represent one of the show's best characters. Jon Snow was ever-present in the changeful cast, and his growth was one of the most significant journeys in the series.

Though the show has ended, there are always more great moments of writing from Game of Thrones for fans to rediscover, even from some of the less eloquent characters, such as Jon Snow.

1 “Stick Them With The Pointy End”

The kingsroad - season 1, episode 2.

• Said to Arya Stark
• The First Time Arya Received Fighting Advice

There is a special kind of bond between Jon Snow and Arya Stark, despite their very different journeys and lack of on-screen time spent together. This was one of the closest bonds shown between the various members of the Stark family, who all lived together for a long time before the events of the show began, and this intimate moment before these two parted for a long time is touching.

Jon gives Arya her sword, Needle, a weapon she uses consistently throughout the series. This friendly, funny piece of advice is the first of many wise words given to her by the many different mentors she has as she grows up. It is also one of the few intimate moments Jon gets to have with any of his family, most of them being gone by the time he returns from the Wall.

2 “Sam’s No Different From The Rest Of Us”

Cripples, bastards, and broken things - season 1, episode 4.

• Said to The Night’s Watch Recruits
• The Beginning Of A Beautiful Friendship

Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly are great friends throughout the show, despite the differences between them and their separation later in the series. Early on, Jon is the only thing standing between Sam and a hellish life at the Wall. Immediately after Sam’s arrival, he is picked on by Alliser Thorne and his fellow recruits.

But Jon, having quickly had enough of their taunting, helps Sam by telling the others to leave him alone. This, early on, showed Jon’s resilience of character. He was never made for the complicated scheming of the Southerners in King’s Landing, like his father. If Jon saw injustice he had to correct it. This proved early on that he was the show’s white knight.

3 “I Do Know Some Things”

Mhysa - season 3, episode 10.

• Said to Ygritte
• A Tender Moment Of True Love

It’s easy, by the conclusion of the show, to remember Jon’s relationship with Daenerys and forget about Ygritte, but his experiences with her helped him reach the conclusions about Dany that he had to, in the end. This moment, in which he forsakes his vow to the Night’s Watch , he confesses his love to her, subverting her usual “ you know nothing Jon Snow ” line, is a beautiful one.

Game Of Thrones: 10 Things We Could See In The Jon Snow Sequel

Even though it was immediately followed by Ygritte shooting him with three arrows, Jon never lost hope in her, till her dying day. Even then, his heart never hardened, even death couldn’t steel him against the love for Daenerys that was to come. But he learned the hard way, both times, that love is blinding.

4 "They Were Born On The Wrong Side Of The Wall. Doesn't Make Them Monsters"

The wars to come - season 5, episode 1.

• Said To Stannis Baratheon & Ser Davos
• A Stark Reminder Of Circumstance & Division

Jon Snow is almost always correct in deeming what is fair. He respects even his enemies and tries to treat everyone as an equal. This becomes even more apparent after he's spent time with the Wildlings, as he advocates for them in his role as Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, saving thousands by bringing them south of the wall before winter.

Equality is severely lacking in Westeros. But Jon Snow is one of the few true honorable men in the series. He always wants to give people chances, and all of this is a huge part of what would have made him one of the best choices to take the Iron Throne, had events not transpired against that occurring in the end.

5 “My Watch Is Ended”

Oathbreaker - season 6, episode 3.

• Said to The Night’s Watch
• Moving From One Life To Another, Literally

Jon Snow’s death was one of the more shocking moments in the entirety of Game of Thrones, coming in one of the best episodes . Fans, expecting him to be one of the final major players in Westeros, couldn’t believe he’d perished. However, Melisandre brought him back using a ritual, and he was forced to take vengeance on the people who had betrayed him.

Looking like he would re-assume the role of Lord Commander, Jon executed the treasonous men who had murdered him. However, he then gave his cloak to his friend Edd, telling him to lead in his stead, as his watch had ended with his previous death. Jon was always incredibly loyal to the Night’s Watch, considering his life to be truly given to the vows he had made. This fascinating loophole showed that Jon was finally ready to take his place among the players in the great game, though he didn't prove to be Azor Ahai like Melisandre thought him.

6 “Everything Before The Word But Is Horse-Sh*t”

Dragonstone - season 7, episode 1.

• Said to Sansa Stark
• The Words Of A King, The Wisdom Of A Father

After being named King of the North, Jon Snow had to contend with leadership problems. When told by Sansa that the Lords love him, he interrupts her with the wisdom of Ned Stark. Despite discovering that Eddard was never his real father, Jon loved, respected, and even took after the former Lord of Winterfell in many ways.

These wise words, attributed by Jon to Eddard, make for a great quote because they remind fans how alike the white knight Eddard his supposed bastard son was. His leadership style from that moment on is explained easily as generally being what Eddard himself would have done in many such situations.

7 “Not Just The Boys”

• Said to The Northern Lords
• An Acknowledgment Of Changing Times

In the same episode, the Northern Lords are speaking about how they can defend the North from the imminent threat of the White Walker army, speaking about how dragon glass and Valyrian Steel can kill them . When someone mentions that it’s time they taught these summer boys how to fight, Jon reminds them that everyone must engage in this battle, to the approval of characters like Brienne of Tarth.

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Of course, this makes perfect sense. The old sensibilities of Westeros involve women not fighting in such battles, but Jon knows only too well after his experiences with the White Walkers that they need everyone they can get in the upcoming battle. This was also something of a call-back to his time with the Wildlings, who proved how well women can fight.

8 "I Am Not Beholden To My Ancestor's Vows"

The queen's justice - season 7, episode 3.

• Said to Daenerys Targaryen
• The Irony About To Be Uncovered

Fans in the know about Jon's real heritage got to watch his first meeting with Daenerys with some amusement. Jon was only half-Stark and was actually a Targaryen by birth. As the nephew of Daenerys, their relationship was a strange one. This first interaction was indicative of the discomfort many characters felt in the presence of Dany in the final seasons.

Despite being asked to kneel by Daenerys, Jon initially stood his ground in this encounter, determined to seek her assistance with the Long Night but making sure that she knew he would not simply bend the knee because his ancestors had. As it turned out, he had at least as much claim to the Iron Throne as Daenerys herself, but neither of them knew that at the time.

9 “They Were The Shields That Guarded The Realms Of Men”

The last of the starks - season 8, episode 4.

• Said to Everyone
• A Recognition Of Jon's Entire Journey

Many fans of Game of Thrones were upset that the Battle of Winterfell, where the Night King finally fell, wasn’t the conclusion to the final season, the long night having been teased for so long. However, the sacrifices made by many in that battle were significant, and well-remembered by those who were left behind. Jon honored everyone alike in the way that the Night’s Watch would have done.

A common saying about the Night’s Watch is that they are the shields guarding the realms of men, but Jon attributed that statement to all who died in that climactic battle. Despite the big role he had to play in the final two episodes, this was already a finale of sorts for Jon, having led an army to a victory worthy of what he’d dreamed about since the day he joined the Night’s Watch.

10 “Love Is The Death Of Duty”

The iron throne - season 8, episode 6.

• Said to Tyrion Lannister
• Echoed Words That Sum Up Jon's Hardest Choices

Once again echoing the words of wise men, Jon repeats this quote from Master Aemon in the finale, when Tyrion is trying to encourage him to end Daenerys once and for all. This was one of the most beautiful, tragic, and memorable quotes in the entirety of the show’s history. It echoed Jon’s experiences with Ygritte and assured him of what he had to do next.

Jon was a man of love, not just Ygritte and Dany. The love he felt for his family, for the Night’s Watch and the friends he made there, and for life itself, were the driving factors in his life. He realized at last that his actions had helped hand Westeros to a madwoman all because he was in love with her, and when Tyrion echoed back to him that “ sometimes duty is the death of love ”, he knew what he had to do.

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