Pop Culture Abroad: Game of Thrones
For fans of Game of Thrones, visiting the series' filming locations offers a thrilling chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. From the windswept landscapes of Northern Ireland to the medieval walls of Dubrovnik, each location adds a layer of depth to the epic tale. Here's a guide to some must-see spots for the ultimate Game of Thrones travel experience.
Dark Hedges (Kingsroad)
Northern Ireland: The Heart of Westeros
Northern Ireland served as the main filming hub, providing a backdrop for iconic locations like Winterfell, The Kingsroad, and The Iron Islands.
Castle Ward in County Down, with its historic farmyard, became the Stark's stronghold, Winterfell. Nearby, the hauntingly beautiful Dark Hedges represented the Kingsroad.
Iceland: Beyond the Wall
The snowy expanses of Iceland portrayed the territory Beyond the Wall. Locations such as Vatnajökull and Thingvellir National Park were transformed into the wild, icy landscapes inhabited by the White Walkers and the Night's Watch.
Alcázar (Gardens of Dorne)
Spain: From Dorne to Dragonstone
Spain's diverse landscapes lent themselves to various regions in the Game of Thrones universe.
Seville's Alcázar served as the Water Gardens of Dorne, while the dramatic rocky beach of Itzurun in Zumaia became the shores of Dragonstone.
Croatia: The Streets of King's Landing
The medieval city of Dubrovnik in Croatia was the primary filming location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Walk the city walls, stroll through the streets of the old town, and explore Fort Lovrijenac, which served as the Red Keep.
Mdina (early days of King’s Landing)
Malta: The Early Days of King's Landing
In the show's first season, Mdina in Malta was used as King's Landing. Azure Window on Gozo Island, though it has since collapsed, featured as the backdrop for Daenerys and Khal Drogo's wedding.
Morocco: The Slaver's Bay
The fortified city of Aït Benhaddou and the coastal town of Essaouira in Morocco served as the backdrop for Yunkai and Astapor in Slaver's Bay, key locations in Daenerys Targaryen's storyline.
Dubrovnik (King’s Landing)
A Game of Thrones-Themed Itinerary
An ideal Game of Thrones-inspired tour might start in Northern Ireland, exploring the heart of Westeros, before venturing to the icy landscapes of Iceland. Next, soak up the Spanish sun in Seville and Zumaia, before heading to the medieval city of Dubrovnik in Croatia. Finally, immerse yourself in the exotic locales of Morocco. Logistically, however, it may make more sense to begin in Iceland, head over to Ireland then down to Spain and Morocco, with your grand finale in Croatia (or backwards!).