The most picturesque film locations in Game of Thrones

Split, Croatia (City of Meereen)

With its blend of Roman, medieval, and baroque architecture, Split offers an immersive Game of Thrones experience for fans wanting to explore the landscapes of Essos and beyond. From commanding fortresses and palaces to quiet villages and quarries, each location tells a piece of the story that made Game of Thrones unforgettable.

**Travel tip** Visit early in the morning as the main tourist location are very busy!

Click here for walking tours through Split!

Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland (The Kingsroad)

Northern Ireland is home to many Game of Thrones locations, but one of the most famous is the Dark Hedges. This hauntingly beautiful avenue of beech trees was used as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark escapes from King’s Landing. With its twisted branches creating a natural tunnel, it feels like stepping straight into Westeros.

**Travel Tip:** Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the perfect eerie photo.

Ballintoy, Northern Ireland (Iron Islands) 

Ballintoy, a small village on the rugged coast of Northern Ireland, served as the Iron Islands, home to the Greyjoys. It’s where Theon Greyjoy first returns home and where key scenes featuring the unforgiving landscape of Pyke were shot. The dramatic cliffs and rock formations add to the wild and isolated feel of this area.

**Travel Tip:** Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Giant’s Causeway, another stunning UNESCO site on the Northern Ireland coast.

Castle Ward, Northern Ireland (Winterfell)

Castle Ward in County Down is the iconic setting for Winterfell, the ancestral home of House Stark. In season one, many of the exterior shots of Winterfell were filmed here, including Bran’s first archery lessons and early battle training. Today, fans can participate in immersive experiences, including archery and medieval banquets, dressed as members of House Stark.

**Travel Tip:** Castle Ward offers *Game of Thrones*-themed tours, allowing you to explore the grounds in full costume!

Alcázar of Seville, Spain (Dorne’s Water Gardens)

The lush Water Gardens of Dorne, home to House Martell, were filmed in the Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The intricate Moorish architecture and beautiful gardens provided the perfect backdrop for the luxurious and exotic feel of Dorne. You’ll recognize the location from scenes featuring Oberyn Martell and the Sand Snakes.

**Travel Tip:** Be sure to wander through the gardens and marvel at the stunning tilework and courtyards that make this palace so unique.

Aït Benhaddou, Morocco (Yunkai and Pentos)

This ancient fortified city in Morocco, known for its iconic kasbahs, was used as the location for Yunkai, one of the Slaver Cities conquered by Daenerys Targaryen. Its earthen-colored walls and desert surroundings gave it the perfect setting for the warmer climates of Essos. The nearby city of Essaouira also appeared as the Free City of Pentos.

**Travel Tip:** Aït Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so take the time to explore its rich history beyond the *Game of Thrones* connection.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland (The North of the Wall)

Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes were the perfect stand-in for the icy wilderness north of the Wall. Thingvellir National Park, with its vast plains, deep canyons, and snow-covered mountains, served as the backdrop for many scenes involving Jon Snow and the Night’s Watch as they ventured into the land of the White Walkers. You’ll recognize it from scenes where the wildlings cross into the Seven Kingdoms.

**Travel Tip:** Visit during the winter months for the full Game of Thrones experience, or in the summer to explore the park’s hiking trails and waterfalls.

Vatnajökull Glacier, Iceland (Beyond the Wall)

For scenes set even further north, the vast Vatnajökull Glacier was used to create the desolate and dangerous terrain beyond the Wall. This is where Jon Snow and his companions face the harsh realities of the frozen north. The towering glaciers and ice caves provide an unforgettable backdrop that perfectly captures the otherworldly atmosphere of the show.

**Travel Tip:** Guided glacier hikes and ice cave tours are available, allowing you to experience this incredible landscape up close.

Gaztelugatxe, Spain (Dragonstone)

The dramatic rocky island of Gaztelugatxe, located off the coast of Spain’s Basque Country, became the setting for Dragonstone, Daenerys Targaryen’s ancestral home. The winding staircase that leads to the top of the island is instantly recognizable from scenes where Daenerys returns to Westeros. The striking views of the sea make this location as awe-inspiring in real life as it is on screen.

**Travel Tip:** The climb to the top is steep but well worth it for the views. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some windy conditions!

Mdina, Malta (King’s Landing in Season 1)

Before Dubrovnik took over as King’s Landing, parts of Malta were used for the capital in season one. The ancient walled city of Mdina, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, provided the perfect setting for the early scenes in King’s Landing. The town’s distinctive architecture can be spotted during key moments, such as Ned Stark’s arrival.

**Travel Tip:** Mdina is known as the “Silent City,” and its quiet streets are perfect for a leisurely exploration of its history and connection to the show.