Where Was Game of Thrones Filmed: Cities, Castles, Maps, Tips

Quick Answer: Where Was Game of Thrones Filmed?

Game of Thrones was filmed across Northern Ireland, Croatia, Spain, Iceland, Malta, Morocco, and briefly Scotland, combining real locations, large studio builds, and CGI to create Westeros and Essos. Headline sites include Dubrovnik for King’s Landing, Castle Ward for Winterfell, Seville’s Alcázar for Dorne, Gaztelugatxe and Zumaia for Dragonstone, Thingvellir and Vatnajökull in Iceland for Beyond the Wall, and Essaouira and Aït Benhaddou in Morocco for Essos[1][2][5].

• Northern Ireland: Winterfell, the Kingsroad, Castle Black environments, and studio interiors[2]
• Croatia: King’s Landing, Qarth, Braavos, Meereen segments[1][5]
• Spain: Dorne, Dragonstone, Dragonpit, King’s Landing and other sites[5]
• Iceland: The North and Beyond the Wall landscapes[1][5]
• Malta: Season 1 King’s Landing and Baelor scenes[1][5]
• Morocco: Astapor, Yunkai, and Essos cities[1][5]
• Scotland: Pilot winter scenes at Doune Castle as early Winterfell[1]

At-a-Glance: Real Places Behind Iconic Thrones Locations

Use this quick finder to map on-screen places to real-world destinations you can visit. Tap to copy GPS into your maps app.

On-screen location	Real location	GPS
King’s Landing	Dubrovnik Old Town, Croatia	42.640, 18.110
Red Keep	Fort Lovrijenac, Croatia	42.639, 18.107
Winterfell	Castle Ward, Northern Ireland	54.404, -5.605
Kingsroad	The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland	55.105, -6.379
Dragonstone (castle approach)	San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain	43.447, -2.780
Dragonstone (beach)	Itzurun Beach, Zumaia, Spain	43.298, -2.253
Dorne Water Gardens	Real Alcázar de Sevilla, Spain	37.385, -5.992
Dragonpit	Itálica Amphitheatre, Santiponce, Spain	37.438, -6.043
Beyond the Wall	Thingvellir National Park, Iceland	64.255, -21.129
Astapor	Essaouira Ramparts, Morocco	31.513, -9.769
Yunkai	Aït Benhaddou, Morocco	31.047, -7.129
Baelor’s Sept	Fort Manoel, Malta	35.906, 14.497

Production blended location shoots with large studio builds in Belfast to achieve the show’s scope and consistency across eight seasons[1][2].

Northern Ireland: Winterfell, Kingsroad, and the Production Hub

Northern Ireland was the series’ production base, home to Titanic Studios in Belfast and many of the show’s most memorable northern landscapes and set builds[2]. The region doubled for Winterfell, the Wolfswood, the Iron Islands, and provided quarry and coastal spaces that became Castle Black environs and battlefields through set work and CGI[1][2].

Castle Ward, County Down → Winterfell

Castle Ward’s 18th-century estate provided the farmyard and courtyard for early Winterfell scenes, including the Stark children’s archery practice in Season 1. On-site sets and visual effects extended the castle complex on screen. Today you can visit, walk the grounds, and join themed tours[2].

• GPS: 54.404, -5.605
• From Belfast: about 1 hour by car
• Best time: April to September for longer daylight
• Access: National Trust site, tickets required; tours available[2]

Tollymore Forest Park → The Wolfswood and Haunted Forest

Tollymore provided the atmospheric woods where the Night’s Watch discovered White Walker signs and where the Stark direwolves were found in the pilot. Trails are well marked and the forest is open year-round.

• GPS: 54.251, -5.926
• From Belfast: about 1 hour 15 minutes by car
• Best time: Spring and autumn for color and fewer midges

The Dark Hedges, Ballymoney → The Kingsroad

This photogenic beech avenue doubled as the Kingsroad. It is a busy stop, so arrive early to avoid crowds and respect local traffic restrictions.

• GPS: 55.105, -6.379
• From Belfast: about 1 hour by car
• Photography tip: Early morning for even light and minimal visitors

Ballintoy Harbour → Lordsport, Iron Islands

Ballintoy became Pyke and Lordsport in the Iron Islands scenes. The rugged harbor and surrounding cliffs capture the Greyjoy aesthetic. Facilities are limited; plan for weather changes.

• GPS: 55.241, -6.369
• From Belfast: 1 hour 15 minutes by car
• Safety: Keep clear of slippery rocks and respect tides

Cushendun Caves → The Stormlands

The sea caves near Cushendun hosted Melisandre’s shadow-binding scene. The recesses are small and tidal conditions vary; check local conditions before you go.

• GPS: 55.129, -6.095
• From Belfast: 1 hour 10 minutes by car

Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple → Dragonstone Shore

The sweeping sands and cliff-top temple helped realize Dragonstone’s dramatic coast in the early seasons. It remains a highlight on Causeway Coast itineraries.

• GPS: 55.167, -6.823
• From Belfast: 1 hour 10 minutes by car
• Best time: Late spring through early autumn

Larrybane Quarry → Renly’s Camp

Once an active quarry, Larrybane hosted the tourney and military encampments of the Stormlands. Views toward the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge are superb on a clear day.

• GPS: 55.239, -6.333

Magheramorne Quarry → Castle Black and Hardhome builds

Magheramorne’s quarry walls and backlot area supported large-scale set builds including Castle Black’s yard and elements of Hardhome, then extended with CGI. These were controlled-access sets during filming and are not open as they appeared on screen[1][2].

• GPS: 54.867, -5.799
• Note: No public access to former set builds

Titanic Studios and Linen Mill Studios → Soundstage interiors

Soundstage work in Belfast completed interiors across the series. Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge now hosts the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, offering immersive behind-the-scenes exhibits with sets, costumes, and props[2].

• GPS (Titanic Studios): 54.602, -5.896
• Tour info: Check official Studio Tour site for hours and tickets[2]

Croatia: King’s Landing and Adriatic Marvels

From Season 2 onward, Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, fortresses, and terracotta rooftops became the definitive screen version of King’s Landing[1][5]. The surrounding Dalmatian Coast provided additional cities that stood in for Braavos and Meereen, along with Qarth segments.

Dubrovnik Old Town → King’s Landing

Walk the city walls and you’ll recognize the Red Keep’s silhouette, the harbor, and several streets used for key scenes. Dubrovnik’s fortifications and maritime vistas matched the capital’s political edge and grandeur[1][5].

• GPS: 42.640, 18.110
• Highlights: Pile Gate steps, Jesuit Stairs, walls circuit
• Best time: Shoulder seasons to avoid peak cruise crowds

Fort Lovrijenac → The Red Keep

The 11th-century fortress just outside the western walls featured prominently as the Red Keep, hosting royal confrontations and defenses. It is accessible by a short walk from Old Town.

• GPS: 42.639, 18.107
• Tip: Combo tickets for walls and local forts may be available

Lokrum Island → Qarth gardens

Just offshore, Lokrum’s monastery complex and botanical settings provided Qarth’s lush backdrops in Season 2. Boats run frequently in season.

• GPS: 42.629, 18.113
• Access: Short ferry from Dubrovnik harbor

Split: Diocletian’s Palace → Meereen interiors

The late Roman palace’s substructures and courtyards formed parts of Meereen, giving Daenerys’s arc a distinctive stone-and-arch aesthetic[5].

• GPS: 43.509, 16.439
• Nearby: Peristyle, basements, and surrounding alleys

Klis Fortress → Meereen exteriors

Perched above Split, Klis provided sweeping exteriors and city views associated with Meereen. It is a short drive from Split and features interpretive signage.

• GPS: 43.559, 16.519

Šibenik → Braavos

Šibenik’s medieval streets and St. James Cathedral contributed to Braavos sequences. The quieter old town makes for easy on-foot exploration.

• GPS: 43.736, 15.891

Spain: Dorne’s Splendor, Dragonstone’s Coast, and the Dragonpit

From Seasons 5 to 7, Spain supplied an array of settings from gilded palaces to volcanic shores. It became the home of Dorne’s Water Gardens, Dragonstone’s landfall, and the Dragonpit where leaders gathered late in the series[5].

Real Alcázar de Sevilla → Dorne’s Water Gardens

The Alcázar’s tiled courtyards, reflecting pools, and lush gardens embodied the Water Gardens of Sunspear. It remains one of Spain’s most visited palaces and a UNESCO site.

• GPS: 37.385, -5.992
• Tickets: Reserve timed entry, especially in peak months

Itálica Amphitheatre, Santiponce → The Dragonpit

The Roman amphitheatre outside Seville hosted the critical Dragonpit gatherings late in the series. The site offers interpretive paths and is a short drive or bus ride from Seville.

• GPS: 37.438, -6.043

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country → Dragonstone approach

The rock islet and its zigzagging stone steps became the approach to Dragonstone. The hermitage at the summit gives cinematic views, and access may be regulated by timed slots in busy months.

• GPS: 43.447, -2.780
• Access: Check local site for permits or time windows in summer

Itzurun Beach, Zumaia → Dragonstone beach

Zumaia’s flysch cliffs and dark sand beaches were used for Daenerys’s landfall and Dragonstone beach scenes. Tides and surf can be strong; keep to marked paths.

• GPS: 43.298, -2.253

Girona → King’s Landing and Oldtown

Girona’s medieval core, cathedral steps, and winding streets stood in for parts of King’s Landing and Oldtown in Season 6. It is very walkable and popular with screen tourists[5].

• GPS: 41.987, 2.826
• Best time: Early morning photography before day-trippers arrive

Osuna Bullring → Meereen fighting pits

The Plaza de Toros de Osuna staged the dramatic fighting-pit sequences. The museum displays Thrones memorabilia tied to the production period.

• GPS: 37.238, -5.103

Cáceres and Trujillo → King’s Landing and Casterly Rock segments

The Extremadura towns offered stone-walled old quarters and fortifications for later-season exteriors, including sequences associated with King’s Landing and Casterly Rock. Trujillo’s fortress provides wide hilltop views.

• GPS (Cáceres Old Town): 39.476, -6.371
• GPS (Trujillo Castle): 39.457, -5.881

Almodóvar del Río Castle → Highgarden

This Andalusian fortress appeared as House Tyrell’s seat, Highgarden, during Season 7. The site offers guided tours and superb rampart views.

• GPS: 37.810, -5.020

Bardenas Reales, Navarre → The Dothraki Sea

The semi-desert landscapes of Bardenas Reales provided the arid, wind-scoured look of the Dothraki Sea. It is a protected natural park; observe all driving and drone restrictions.

• GPS: 42.200, -1.506

Iceland: Beyond the Wall

Iceland’s glaciers, lava fields, and stark coastlines gave the series its northern soul. Many of the Wall and Free Folk sequences were staged in Thingvellir and the Mývatn region, with additional glacier work in Vatnajökull and Skaftafell[1][5].

Thingvellir National Park → North of the Wall

Rift valleys, waterfalls, and basalt rock corridors framed several northern treks. Thingvellir is part of the Golden Circle and easy to reach from Reykjavík.

• GPS: 64.255, -21.129
• From Reykjavík: about 45 minutes by car
• Best time: Summer for hiking; winter for snowscapes

Mývatn and Grjótagjá → Free Folk country and the hot-spring cave

The Mývatn area features lava fields used for camp scenes, and Grjótagjá cave is the site associated with Jon and Ygritte’s encounter. Grjótagjá’s bathing access is restricted due to temperature and conservation concerns.

• GPS (Grjótagjá): 65.621, -16.883

Vatnajökull and Skaftafell → Glacial marches

Tongues of Vatnajökull glacier and the Skaftafell region created the otherworldly expanses for ranging parties. Guided glacier walks are popular but require proper gear and professional guides.

• GPS (Skaftafell): 64.023, -16.973

Kirkjufell → The Arrowhead Mountain

West Iceland’s iconic conical peak is instantly recognizable from prophetic visions and northern journeys. The mountain is near the town of Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

• GPS: 64.938, -23.306

Malta: Season One’s King’s Landing

Before Dubrovnik took the mantle, Season 1 based King’s Landing exteriors in Malta and Gozo. You can visit many spots, though set pieces are long gone and access depends on current site policies[1][5].

Mdina Gate → Early King’s Landing Gate

The silent city’s main gate is a classic photo stop for fans tracing the capital’s first-season footprint.

• GPS: 35.885, 14.403

Fort Ricasoli → Red Keep exteriors

Ricasoli’s formidable bastions gave the Red Keep its early profile. The fort is a heritage site with limited general access.

• GPS: 35.889, 14.532

Fort Manoel → Baelor’s Sept square

This star-shaped fort in Gżira staged the pivotal Baelor scene. It overlooks Marsamxett Harbour and offers periodic visiting hours.

• GPS: 35.906, 14.497

Dwejra, Gozo → Daenerys and Drogo’s wedding

Filmed near the Azure Window, which collapsed naturally in 2017. The coastal geology is still dramatic but the arch no longer stands. Respect cliff edges and signage.

• GPS: 36.050, 14.190
• Note: Azure Window collapsed in 2017; arch is gone

Morocco: Astapor, Yunkai, and Essos

Morocco’s Atlantic ramparts and desert kasbahs portrayed Essos cities, particularly in Season 3. Essaouira and Aït Benhaddou are the marquee stops for Unsullied and slaver-city arcs[5].

Essaouira Ramparts → Astapor

The Skala de la Ville and sea walls gave Astapor its wind-lashed character. The old medina is UNESCO-listed and easy to explore on foot.

• GPS: 31.513, -9.769
• Best time: Late spring and autumn to avoid heat and winter gales

Aït Benhaddou → Yunkai

This earthen ksar near Ouarzazate stood for Yunkai. It has a rich screen history beyond Thrones and rewards an overnight stay for sunrise and sunset light.

• GPS: 31.047, -7.129

Scotland: The Pilot’s Winterfell

Doune Castle in Scotland was used for parts of the original, unaired pilot as Winterfell. The production later shifted Winterfell exteriors primarily to Castle Ward and other Northern Ireland locations for the series proper[1].

• Reference: Series history and pilot notes[1]

Plan Your Trip: Best Seasons, Access, and Photography

Screen tourism is still strong in these regions. A little planning helps you avoid closures and crowds, and ensures you respect conservation rules and local communities.

Best time by country

Country	Best months	Why
Northern Ireland	May to September	Long days, green landscapes, milder weather
Croatia	April to June, Sept to Oct	Avoid peak cruise crowds and heat
Spain	April to May, Sept to Nov	Comfortable temperatures at coastal and inland sites
Iceland	June to August	Trail access, midnight sun; winter for snow scenes
Malta	March to May, Oct to Nov	Milder weather and fewer crowds
Morocco	March to May, Oct to Nov	Pleasant temperatures in desert and coastal zones

Access and permits

• Historic sites like the Alcázar, Dubrovnik walls, and forts require tickets. Book timed entry where offered to avoid queues[5].
• Some natural areas regulate visitor flows. Gaztelugatxe and certain Iceland trails use timed slots or have weather closures. Check official sites before setting out[5].
• Drone use is restricted in many of these locations. Always verify local regulations to avoid fines and protect wildlife.
• Respect private property and posted signs. Many Thrones shots were framed from public viewpoints; there’s no need to trespass.

Photography tips

• Arrive at sunrise in Dubrovnik and Girona for empty streets and soft light.
• Use polarizing filters on coastal sites like Ballintoy and Essaouira to control glare.
• Carry layers in Iceland and Northern Ireland. Weather changes rapidly across coastal cliffs and glacial plains.

By Season: Where Key Arcs Were Filmed

Use this compact index to trace major arcs to real-world locations. For a deeper scene-by-scene breakdown, combine this with the GPS table above and local tourism maps[1][5].

Season	Highlight locations
1	Malta and Gozo for King’s Landing; Northern Ireland for Winterfell and the North; Scotland used in the unaired pilot[1][5]
2	Croatia’s Dubrovnik becomes King’s Landing; Lokrum for Qarth; Northern Ireland and Iceland expand northern arcs[1][5]
3	Morocco’s Essaouira and Aït Benhaddou for Astapor and Yunkai; Iceland for Beyond the Wall[5]
4	Croatia’s Split region for Meereen; Northern Ireland continues as production base[1][5]
5	Spain enters in force: Seville Alcázar for Dorne; Osuna bullring; Bardenas Reales[5]
6	Girona for King’s Landing and Oldtown; Iceland and Northern Ireland for major battles[5]
7	Dragonstone in the Basque Country; Itálica as the Dragonpit; Cáceres and Trujillo for late-season exteriors[5]
8	Spain’s Extremadura and Northern Ireland studios; Dubrovnik inspirations inform concluding capital scenes[1][5]

Practicalities: Crowds, Closures, and Conservation

Screen exposure can reshape travel patterns. Dubrovnik and Northern Ireland have seen sustained fan interest since the show’s run, and local authorities continue to balance access with preservation[2][5]. The Azure Window in Gozo collapsed in 2017, so visitors now experience the coastline without the arch. Many purpose-built exterior sets were dismantled after filming and only studio-based exhibits retain their original designs[1][2][5].

Suggested 5-Day Thrones Itineraries

Adriatic Capitals: Croatia and Montenegro

• Day 1: Dubrovnik walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Jesuit Stairs
• Day 2: Lokrum Island and city museums; sunset harbor cruise
• Day 3: Drive to Split; Diocletian’s Palace basements
• Day 4: Klis Fortress and Šibenik
• Day 5: Trogir old town or day trip to Pelješac

Northern Realms: Belfast and the Causeway Coast

• Day 1: Belfast’s Titanic Quarter and GOT Studio Tour
• Day 2: Castle Ward and Strangford Lough villages
• Day 3: The Dark Hedges, Ballintoy, Larrybane
• Day 4: Downhill Beach and Mussenden Temple
• Day 5: Tollymore Forest and coastal viewpoints

Iberian Showcase: Seville to the Basque Coast

• Day 1: Real Alcázar and Seville cathedral quarter
• Day 2: Itálica and Osuna
• Day 3: Fly or train to Bilbao; evening pintxos
• Day 4: Gaztelugatxe and Bermeo coast
• Day 5: Zumaia flysch cliffs and San Sebastián

Love TV-location travel? You may also enjoy our companion guide: Where Was Sex and the City Filmed, Can You Visit?

Top Mistakes to Avoid

• Arriving at Dubrovnik mid-day in peak season. Go early or late for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
• Underestimating road times on the Causeway Coast. Distances are short but stops and narrow roads add time.
• Disregarding tide tables at beaches like Zumaia or Ballintoy. Check conditions, keep gear dry, and stay off slick rocks.
• Flying drones without permits. Many sites ban them outright for safety and conservation.

Why These Places Were Chosen

Production sought authentic textures and workable logistics. Northern Ireland offered a studio base, varied landscapes, and supportive film infrastructure. Croatia supplied intact medieval walls and coastal fortresses for a cinematic capital. Spain provided palaces, Roman ruins, and dramatic coasts within practical travel windows. Iceland delivered remote, glacial environments that sold the idea of an unforgiving far North[1][2][5].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where was King’s Landing filmed?

Mainly in Dubrovnik, Croatia, from Season 2 onward. Key spots include the city walls, Fort Lovrijenac, and nearby streets and stairways. Early Season 1 capital scenes used Malta’s Mdina and forts before the show moved to Croatia[1][5].

Where is Winterfell in real life?

Castle Ward in County Down, Northern Ireland, provided key Winterfell exteriors in Season 1, augmented with sets and CGI. Additional northern sequences used Tollymore Forest and studio builds in Belfast[2].

Where was Dragonstone filmed?

Dragonstone’s approach road and stairs were filmed at San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Spain, while Dragonstone beach scenes were shot at nearby Itzurun Beach in Zumaia. Interiors and the castle itself were completed with sets and CGI[5].

Where were the Water Gardens of Dorne filmed?

At the Real Alcázar de Sevilla in Spain. The palace’s Moorish courtyards and gardens provided an ideal stand-in for Sunspear’s royal retreat[5].

Where was the Dragonpit scene filmed?

In the Roman amphitheatre of Itálica, near Seville, Spain. It hosted the major parley in the later seasons[5].

Where was Beyond the Wall filmed?

Iceland, primarily Thingvellir National Park, the Mývatn region including lava fields, and the Vatnajökull area for glacial expanses[1][5].

Can I visit these filming locations?

Yes. Most are public heritage sites or natural areas with normal visiting hours and entry fees. Purpose-built sets are gone, but the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Northern Ireland preserves select interiors and props[2].

Is the Azure Window still standing?

No. The Azure Window on Gozo collapsed naturally in 2017. The coastline remains scenic, but the rock arch no longer exists.

Did Morocco really play Astapor and Yunkai?

Yes. Essaouira’s ramparts appear as Astapor, and Aït Benhaddou stood for Yunkai in Season 3 sequences[5].

What about safety and conservation rules?

Follow posted guidance, stay on marked paths, and check weather or tide conditions. Drone restrictions are common in historic centers and protected parks. When in doubt, ask local wardens or official info points.

For a human story behind the series, read: Emilia Clarke’s Terrifying Battle with Aphasia After Near-Fatal Brain Aneurysm.

References

1. [1] Wikipedia (URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_of_Thrones) – “Series overview, production summary, and principal countries used for filming across eight seasons.”
2. [2] National Trust (URL: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/discover/film-tv/game-of-thrones-filming-locations) – “Castle Ward’s role as Winterfell and Northern Ireland filming information, plus visitor guidance and Studio Tour details.”
3. [3] The Trainline (URL: https://www.thetrainline.com/en-us/via/europe/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-across-europe) – “Roundup of European filming locations, travel context, and visitor tips.”
4. [4] AFAR (URL: https://www.afar.com/magazine/game-of-thrones-destinations-you-can-visit-in-real-life) – “Curated destinations that appeared in the series and how to see them today.”
5. [5] Travel + Leisure (URL: https://www.travelandleisure.com/culture-design/tv-movies/game-of-thrones-filming-locations) – “Detailed list of filming sites by country, including Seville’s Alcázar, Itálica, Girona, Gaztelugatxe, Dubrovnik, and Icelandic locations.”