Game Of Thrones Filming Locations
Arguably one of the most globally popular TV series in history, Game of Thrones has certainly boasted some incredible real-life scenic backdrops. For those of you not sure where those epic battles scenes were filmed or whether you really can go and visit the ancient castles, grab your passport and travel backpack and book that annual vacation! We’re about to take you on a whistle-stop tour of 10 Amazing Game Of Thrones Filming Locations. Just be warned, you’re likely to encounter plenty of other Game Of Thrones fans at these locations. From Ireland to Iceland, Morocco to Malta the seven kingdoms span several real-life continents, taking in eight different countries. So if you’re looking for a more adventurous and entertaining holiday this year, then hop on board the Games of Thrones express!
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a great starting point, and if you can’t realistically afford the time or the money to take in all 10 Amazing Game Of Thrones Filming Locations, then Northern Ireland is an excellent choice.
It provides the most extensive backdrops to the series from the headquarters of the capital in Belfast to plenty of scenic cross country shots.
One of the very first locations to really get coverage and generate buzz on social media was set in Northern Ireland. We’re talking of course, about the ominous Dark Hedges. It may only have been a short scene, but it sure made a lot of impact, and it’s a location loved by fans of the show.
County Down, Northern Ireland
Of course, we can’t mention Northern Ireland without recommending a visit to Castle Westeros, or rather Castle Ward located in Downpatrick in County Down. Safe to say they’ve gone all out when it comes to fulfilling the tourist element with a professional, organized tour on offer. If you really fancy it, you can channel your inner John Snow, don a fur cape and put in some archery practice.
There are plenty more locations besides that were set in Northern Ireland and following the Causeway Coast ending up at the Giant’s Causeway is a spectacle whether you’re an ardent fan of Game of Thrones or just a lover of majestic sceneries.
Iceland
Iceland itself is like a natural movie set, full of spectacular scenery and jaw-dropping vistas. It’s little surprise then that it was chosen as the backdrop for so many of the best-loved scenes in Game of Thrones. It has that otherworldly, fantasy feeling in real life and a drive through the lava fields of Dimmuborgir is nothing short of breathtaking. Like Ireland, there are multiple locations in one that you will have access to on a trip to Iceland.
From glacier lagoons to beautiful black beaches, stunning rock formations to lava fields, so many of the most iconic scenes from Game of Thrones are set in Iceland and are also easily accessible by car. Pretty much all of them can be reached via the Ring Road which takes you all the way around Iceland so rent yourself a car and go exploring what this beautiful country has to offer.
Girona, Spain
Always a popular tourist destination, Game of Thrones started filing in Spain in season six. From the ancient Cathedral city of Girona with its narrow streets to the stunning splendor of the coastline of the Basque Country, plenty of scenes were shot in Spain. Girona was chosen as The Free City of Braavos in Essos.
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain
The incredible snaking staircase in Dragonstone was shot 40km outside Bilbao in San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. It’s definitely worth taking in whether you’re a fan of the series or just love the incredible scenery that Spain has to offer. Talking of which, you can also take in the cultural sites of modern-day Barcelona while hanging out where the House of Tarly scenes were filmed. Spain really is a must-see destination for all you die-hard fans of sunshine and sword fighting.
Croatia
Another beautiful country that is well worth a visit, Croatia still happens to be relatively inexpensive and less crowded than Italy, for example. It serves up plenty of stunning settings from the old city of Dubrovnik which was used extensively for the Kings Landing, to the towns if Sibenik and Split. Join one of the organized walking tours through the streets of Dubrovnik and imagine that you are Cersei. Combine it with a beach holiday too, and you really can get the best of all worlds.
The Magnificent Meteora Monasteries
Used to create the backdrop for the Eyrie castle in the sky, Meteora is a protected location with environmental significance so much of the scenes were digitally mastered. However, a filming unit was sent to capture some of the magnificent splendor of this simply stunning natural location. It’s got to be right up there as one of the most spectacular places to visit.
Air Benhaddou, Morocco
The Daenerys Targaryen storyline takes advantage of the fabulous settings that Morocco has to offer. The ancient fortified city of Air Benhaddou was originally used to represent Yunkai in the series.
Essaouira, Morocco
Heading to the coast and the port city of Essaouira was used as the setting for Astapor. The Mother of Dragons may well have destroyed what today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but hopefully, you will show it a lot more respect on your travels. Morocco sure has plenty of sights, sounds, and flavors on offer and quickly transports any traveler into a whole new world.
Malta
Plenty of scenes from the original first series were filmed in and around this Mediterranean island before production shifted instead to Croatia. Malta was used for Kings Landing, and Pentos scenes and a lot of production also took place around the town of Mdina. Malta has a fantastic summer climate and makes an excellent holiday destination, so it’s definitely worth a stop on the GOT tour!
