Fans of Game of Thrones and travel: this one’s for you! The TV show’s real-life kingdoms come to life around the globe, across Ireland, Iceland, Spain, Croatia, and Morocco. Walk in the footsteps of Jon Snow, Daenerys, and Tyrion. The epic fantasy world of Westeros springs to the screen using dramatic international landscapes and historic architecture. Game of Thrones’ filming locations are not only big hits with series fans, but they’re also incredible destinations for travelers of all kinds! Whether you’re chasing dragons or chasing unforgettable travel experiences, here are five must-visit countries where Game of Thrones came to life:
Ireland: The Heart of the North
The Seven Kingdoms springs to life amid Ireland’s rugged beauty. Arya Stark disguised herself as a boy on Kingsroad, the real-life Dark Hedges in County Antrim, a hauntingly beautiful beech tree tunnel. Ballintoy Harbour became the Iron Islands, which was home to the Greyjoys. Castle Ward in County Down was the grounds of Winterfell where the Stark legacy began. Northern Ireland, with its rolling green hills, moody skies, and dramatic coastlines, set the perfect tone for the show’s most emotional arcs. Beyond the show’s idyllic backdrops, travelers can enjoy Ireland’s medieval castles, cozy pubs, and wild landscapes.
Iceland: The Land Beyond the Wall
The Game of Thrones story ventured into the icy wilderness beyond the Wall. Iceland’s untamed landscapes were the perfect backdrop to steal the show. The country’s vast glaciers and volcanic sand created an otherworldly atmosphere. Its steaming geothermal fields are unparalleled. Þingvellir National Park was used for Arya’s travels through the Riverlands. Lake Mývatn’s lava fields set the stage for Jon Snow and Ygritte’s time with the Free Folk. Perhaps the most unforgettable location is Grjótagjá, the volcanic cave where Jon and Ygritte shared their famous romantic scene. Iceland’s northern lights, waterfalls, and natural hot springs make it an extraordinary destination.
Spain: Palaces, Gardens, and the Land of Dorne
Stunning Spain was showcased in Game of Thrones from north to south. Alcázar in Seville, with its ornate tile mosaics and lush gardens in central southern Spain, was transformed into the Water Gardens of Dorne, home to House Martell. The palace’s Moorish beauty makes it easy to imagine the show’s drama unfolding in its courtyards. The nearby Roman amphitheater of Italica became the Dragonpit. The striking cliffs of Gaztelugatxe in the northern Basque Country became the steps leading to Dragonstone. And of course Catalonia’s old town of Girona was transformed into the city of Braavos, with its cathedral used for the Great Sept of Baelor. Beyond the screen, book a trip to Spain to immerse yourself in its rich history, passionate flamenco rhythms, and mouthwatering tapas.
Croatia: King’s Landing and Beyond
The walled city of Dubrovnik in the south of Croatia is synonymous with Game of Thrones. It is considered to be the “jewel of the Adriatic” with its fortified medieval walls, bright terracotta rooftops, and winding marble streets. Dubrovnik became the iconic King’s Landing. Cersei walked her infamous “Walk of Shame” on the city’s Jesuit Staircase. The Red Keep’s battlements can be explored at Fort Lovrijenac. And visitors can gaze out over the glittering Adriatic Sea just like the Game of Thrones characters did from the capital of Westeros. From Dubrovnik, you can see the nearby island of Lokrum, which doubled as Qarth. The Diocletian’s Palace in the northern Croatian city of Split became Daenerys’ throne room in Meereen. Be sure to visit Croatia for its crystal-clear water and vibrant mix of history and coastal charm.
Morocco: The Exotic Edge of Essos
Morocco’s cities and desert landscapes became the mysterious world of Essos. Essaouira’s medina is listed by UNESCO and became Game of Thrones’ bustling slave-trading city of Astapor. Danerys famously acquired her Unsullied army within its fortified walls. Just inland, the red clay fortress of Aït Benhaddou, an ancient ksar along the old caravan route, stood in for Yunkai, the Yellow City. Wandering through these alleys, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into Daenerys’ storyline, with the scent of spices in the air and the sun setting over centuries-old towers. For travelers, Morocco is not only cinematic but also an intoxicating blend of culture, history, and adventure.
From the sun-drenched deserts of Morocco to the icy glaciers of Iceland, the Game of Thrones filming locations are as breathtaking as the series itself. Visiting these destinations is like stepping directly into the Seven Kingdoms. Each country offers cinematic magic and unforgettable culture, cuisine, and adventure. For fans and travelers alike, a Game of Thrones journey is the ultimate way to blend fantasy with reality.
