For fans of Game of Thrones, one of the most captivating elements of the show is its stunning locations. The series was filmed across a variety of breathtaking destinations around the world, each bringing to life the rich and diverse landscapes of Westeros and beyond. This itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, from the rugged coasts of Northern Ireland to the ancient fortresses of Spain, allowing you to step into the world of dragons, direwolves, and intrigue.
Day 1: Belfast, Northern Ireland – the heart of westeros
Begin your journey in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the production hub of Game of Thrones. While much of the show was filmed on soundstages here, the surrounding countryside is home to some of the series’ most memorable landscapes.
- Titanic Studios: Start your day with a visit to Titanic Studios, where many interior scenes were filmed. While the studios are not open to the public, you can visit the nearby Game of Thrones Studio Tour, which offers behind-the-scenes access to costumes, props, and sets.
- Castle Ward: Known as Winterfell in the series, Castle Ward is just a short drive from Belfast. Explore the 18th-century mansion and its grounds, which were transformed into the Stark family’s ancestral home. You can even try your hand at archery in the same spot where Jon Snow and Robb Stark practiced.
Day 2: Dark hedges and Ballintoy harbour – the north remembers
Continue your exploration of Northern Ireland by visiting two iconic locations that stand out in the series for their mystical and rugged beauty.
- Dark Hedges: Located near Ballymoney, the Dark Hedges is a hauntingly beautiful avenue of beech trees that became the King’s Road in Game of Thrones. This is where Arya Stark escapes from King’s Landing disguised as a boy in Season 2. The tunnel of trees is a must-see for fans and photographers alike.
- Ballintoy Harbour: This picturesque harbor served as the backdrop for the Iron Islands, home to the Greyjoys. Wander the rocky coastline and imagine yourself in Pyke, where Theon Greyjoy returned to claim his birthright.
Day 3: Cushendun caves and larrybane quarry – the shadows and storms
Head further along the Northern Irish coast to explore more locations tied to pivotal scenes in the series.
- Cushendun Caves: Located near the village of Cushendun, these caves were the eerie setting where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow assassin in Season 2. The atmosphere here is dark and mysterious, perfect for imagining the dark magic that took place in the show.
- Larrybane Quarry: This windswept location, near Carrick-a-Rede, was used for Renly Baratheon’s camp and the site of Brienne of Tarth’s introduction in Season 2. The towering cliffs and open landscape make this a striking stop on your itinerary.
Day 4: Dubrovnik, Croatia – welcome to king’s landing
Fly from Belfast to Dubrovnik, Croatia, which served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. The city’s medieval walls, red-tiled roofs, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea make it a perfect stand-in for the heart of Westeros.
- Old Town: Walk the ancient streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, which doubled as the streets of King’s Landing throughout the series. Explore the narrow alleyways and plazas that played host to royal intrigue, including the infamous Walk of Atonement in Season 5.
- Fort Lovrijenac: This imposing fortress, perched on a cliff outside Dubrovnik’s walls, was used for many scenes set in the Red Keep. Climb the fort’s stairs and imagine yourself overlooking the city as Cersei Lannister once did.
Day 5: Split and Klis, Croatia – from dragons to dungeons
Continue your journey through Croatia by visiting the coastal city of Split, which played a key role in the filming of Game of Thrones.
- Diocletian’s Palace: Explore the underground passages of Diocletian’s Palace, which served as Daenerys Targaryen’s throne room in Meereen. These ancient Roman ruins are an incredible backdrop, allowing you to relive some of the show’s most dramatic scenes.
- Klis Fortress: Just outside Split, Klis Fortress is another filming location for Meereen, where Daenerys Targaryen freed the slaves. The fortress offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape, providing the perfect setting for imagining yourself in the world of dragons.
Day 6: Seville, Spain – the gardens of dorne
Fly to Seville, Spain, to explore the sun-drenched lands of Dorne, home to House Martell.
- Real Alcázar of Seville: The stunning Real Alcázar, with its intricate Moorish architecture and lush gardens, was used as the Water Gardens of Dorne. Wander the palace and its grounds, which served as the luxurious home of Prince Doran Martell and his family.
Day 7: Guadalajara, Spain – the seat of house tyrell
Conclude your journey in Guadalajara, Spain, where one of the most powerful families in Westeros held their seat.
- Castle of Zafra: This imposing castle, located in a remote part of Spain, was used as the Tower of Joy in the flashbacks to Jon Snow’s birth. The castle’s dramatic setting makes it one of the most memorable locations in the series.
Hummm, you shuold add a Day 8 with San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in Bakio, North of Spain