The ultimate Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik, Croatia, is your gateway to King’s Landing. The city’s stunning medieval architecture, perched on the shimmering Adriatic Sea, made it the perfect stand-in for the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. For fans of the series, Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination, where you can wander through the very streets where the intrigue, betrayal, and drama of Game of Thrones unfolded.

In this post, we’ll guide you through the most iconic Game of Thrones filming locations in Dubrovnik, so you can relive your favourite scenes from the show while exploring one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Alternatively you can book a tour, here!

1. Pile Gate (Entrance to King’s Landing)

One of the main entrances to Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Pile Gate, doubled as the gateway to King’s Landing. You’ll recognize it as the spot where many pivotal scenes were filmed, including when King Robert Baratheon arrives in the city in season one. This is also where the riot in King’s Landing erupts in season two as the people grow frustrated with the Lannister rule.

**Fun Fact:** The gate leads into the bustling streets of the Old Town, where you can imagine the scheming and plotting happening just around the corner. It is also the start of the city walls walk- which you can book here!

2. Fort Lovrijenac (The Red Keep)

Known as Dubrovnik’s “Gibraltar,” Fort Lovrijenac served as the Red Keep, the seat of power for the Lannisters. This fortress, perched on a 37-meter-high cliff, offers commanding views of the Adriatic and the city below. It’s where many key scenes in the royal court took place, including Joffrey’s infamous name day tournament and numerous moments of political maneuvering.

**Don’t Miss:** The climb to the top of Fort Lovrijenac is worth it for the panoramic views alone, but make sure to take a moment to imagine the tense exchanges between Cersei, Tyrion, and other members of King’s Landing’s elite.

3. Jesuit Staircase (Cersei’s Walk of Shame)

One of the most memorable scenes from Game of Thrones is Cersei Lannister’s humiliating “Walk of Shame” in season five. This unforgettable moment was filmed on the Jesuit Staircase, which leads from Gundulić Square to the Church of St. Ignatius. The staircase, with its baroque design, provided the perfect dramatic backdrop for one of the show’s most powerful sequences.

**Tip:** Climb the stairs yourself to experience the grandeur of this location, but without the shame! The area also offers a great view of the surrounding squares and streets.

4. Rector’s Palace (House of the Undying in Qarth)

Dubrovnik’s beautiful Rector’s Palace was transformed into the House of the Undying, where Daenerys Targaryen searches for her stolen dragons in season two. With its blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles, this historical building provided the perfect mystical setting for Daenerys’ eerie visions.

**Explore:** The palace is open to visitors as a museum, so you can admire its rich history and architecture, as well as step inside the location that played host to one of Daenerys’ most tense moments.

5. Minčeta Tower (House of the Undying Exterior)

Another key location for the House of the Undying is Minčeta Tower, the highest point on Dubrovnik’s city walls. This fortress became the exterior of the magical tower in Qarth where Daenerys is lured while searching for her dragons. The tower’s imposing stone walls and narrow windows make it a fitting location for this scene of mystery and danger.

**Tip:** A walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls will lead you to Minčeta Tower. From the top, you’ll have a spectacular view of the city and the sea, perfect for capturing the beauty of King’s Landing.

6. Bokar Fortress (Walls of King’s Landing)

Bokar Fortress, another of Dubrovnik’s impressive coastal fortresses, served as part of the walls of King’s Landing. It’s featured prominently in conversations between Tyrion Lannister and Lord Varys as they discuss how to defend the city from Stannis Baratheon’s impending attack in season two.

**Don’t Miss:** The fortress offers some of the best views of the coastline, making it easy to see why it was used for strategic scenes involving the defense of King’s Landing.

7. Lokrum Island (Qarth)

Just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island stood in for the city of Qarth, the “greatest city that ever was or will be,” in season two. The island’s lush greenery, botanical gardens, and ruins made it the perfect location for Daenerys’ arrival in Qarth and her interactions with the mysterious warlocks.

**Travel Tip:** Lokrum is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik. Spend the day exploring its botanical gardens, visit the old monastery, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. Book a tour here!

8. Sponza Palace (King’s Landing Markets)

Sponza Palace, one of Dubrovnik’s most elegant buildings, was used for various scenes set in the bustling markets of King’s Landing. The courtyard and Gothic-Renaissance architecture gave it a rich, regal feel, perfect for scenes that required the atmosphere of a lively, thriving capital city.

**Don’t Miss:** Take a stroll through the palace to appreciate its stunning architecture. It’s also a great spot to escape the heat and imagine the comings and goings of life in King’s Landing.

9. Gradac park

Gradac Park, located just a short walk from the Old Town of Dubrovnik, is a coastal park offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It was used to depict the infamous Purple Wedding scene in Season 4, where King Joffrey meets his dramatic end. The park’s natural beauty, with its lush pine trees and rocky cliffs overlooking the sea, made it an ideal backdrop for the opulent yet treacherous world of Westeros.Visitors can explore the tranquil walking paths, enjoy a picnic with panoramic views, or relax on the nearby hidden beach.

**Visitor Tips** Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, as some paths can be uneven.