Winter may have come and gone, but the legacy of Game of Thrones lives on. Beyond the gripping storyline and captivating characters, the series also captured our imagination with its breathtaking filming locations. From medieval castles to sprawling landscapes, the show took us on a journey through some of the most stunning destinations in the world. If you’re a fan of the show or simply love exploring new places, here are the top Game of Thrones filming locations to add to your travel bucket list.
Northern Ireland: The Heart of Westeros
The majority of Game of Thrones was filmed in Northern Ireland, and it’s no surprise why. The region boasts a rugged coastline, verdant forests, and historic castles that perfectly embody the essence of Westeros. One of the must-visit locations is the Castle Ward Estate, which serves as the backdrop for Winterfell. You can take a tour of the castle, dress up in traditional Stark attire, and even meet the direwolves who played the role of Ghost and Nymeria.
Another iconic location is the Dark Hedges, a row of beech trees that served as the Kingsroad in the show. The ethereal beauty of this location makes it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. If you’re feeling brave, you can also visit Ballintoy Harbour, which was used as the Iron Islands in the show. The rugged cliffs and crashing waves provide a dramatic backdrop that will transport you straight into the world of Game of Thrones.
Croatia: King’s Landing and Beyond
Croatia provided the perfect setting for King’s Landing, the capital of Westeros. Dubrovnik, with its imposing city walls and red-tiled roofs, served as the primary location for the city. You can explore the streets where Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion walked, climb the steps to the Red Keep, and even visit the site of the Battle of Blackwater Bay.
But Croatia has much more to offer than just King’s Landing. The city of Split was used as the location for Daenerys’ throne room in Meereen, while the fortress of Klis served as the exterior of Meereen itself. The lush greenery of Krka National Park was also used as the backdrop for several scenes in the show, including the battle between the Tullys and the Lannisters.
Iceland: Land of Ice and Fire
The stark and otherworldly landscapes of Iceland provided the perfect backdrop for scenes beyond the Wall. The region is home to glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches, all of which were featured in the show. The icy expanse of Vatnajökull Glacier was used as the location for the Fist of the First Men, while the nearby Svínafellsjökull Glacier stood in for the lands beyond the Wall.
One of the most iconic locations in Iceland is the Thingvellir National Park, which served as the location for Arya and Sandor’s journey through the Riverlands. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and rock formations that are sure to leave you in awe.
Spain: Sunspear and Dorne
The sunny shores of Spain served as the backdrop for the exotic land of Dorne. The Alcázar of Seville, with its intricate tilework and lush gardens, served as the Water Gardens of Sunspear. The palace also served as the location for the Martell’s home in the show.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, head to the Bardenas Reales Natural Park, which was used as the location for the Dothraki Sea. The semi-desert landscape provides a stark contrast to the lush greenery of other locations in the show, making it a unique destination for Game of Thrones fans.
Malta: The Narrow Sea and Beyond
The charming island nation of Malta provided the perfect setting for scenes in the Narrow Sea. Fort Manoel served as the location for the Great Sept of Baelor, while the picturesque village of Mdina was used as the setting for King’s Landing in the first season.
But Malta has more to offer than just Game of Thrones locations. The island is steeped in history, with ancient temples, catacombs, and fortresses waiting to be explored.
Conclusion
Game of Thrones may be over, but the memories of its stunning locations live on. From the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the world of Westeros. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on a journey through some of the most breathtaking locations in the world. Winter may be over, but the adventure is just beginning.