If you're a Game of Thrones fan planning a trip to Croatia, you're in for a treat. The country's historic cities and scenic landscapes provided the perfect settings for some of the series' most memorable scenes. Envision walking through Dubrovnik's ancient streets, investigating Diocletian's Palace in Split, or wandering the serene Trsteno Arboretum. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the realm of Westeros, blending rich history with breathtaking scenery. Curious about how these stunning sites were altered into the Seven Kingdoms? There's a lot more to discover as you step into the domain of your favorite show.
Key Takeaways
- Dubrovnik's Old Town served as King's Landing with key sites like Fort Lovrijenac, Jesuit Staircase, and St. Dominic Street.
- Trsteno Arboretum near Dubrovnik was used for the Palace Gardens of King's Landing.
- Diocletian's Palace in Split became Daenerys Targaryen's throne room and dragon holding area.
- Klis Fortress, near Split, was a backdrop for Daenerys' scenes, showcasing its historic and strategic military significance.
- Lokrum Island off Dubrovnik's coast represented the city of Qarth and features the original Iron Throne for visitors.
Dubrovnik: King's Landing
Dubrovnik's historic Old Town became the enchanting backdrop for King's Landing, the capital city in HBO's Game of Thrones.
Key filming sites included the iconic Jesuit Staircase, which you might recall from Cersei's infamous walk of shame. St. Dominic Street, Pile Gate, and Fort Lovrijenac also played significant roles, with Fort Lovrijenac doubling as the Red Keep.
The city's defensive walls and Bokar Fortress recreated the fortifications of King's Landing, while Minceta Tower stood in for the House of the Undying.
Visiting Dubrovnik offers you a chance to walk through these memorable locations. The city has become a must-visit destination for Game of Thrones fans, showcasing various tours highlighting its filming sites.
Trsteno Arboretum
When visiting the Trsteno Arboretum, you'll find yourself in the lush gardens that served as the Palace Gardens of King's Landing.
This scenic location, just outside Dubrovnik, provided the perfect backdrop for scenes with characters like Sansa, Lady Olenna, and Lord Varys.
The arboretum not only offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea but also holds significant historical value, making it a must-see for any Game of Thrones fan.
Filming Location Highlights
Located just outside of Dubrovnik, the Trsteno Arboretum served as the enchanting Palace Gardens of King's Landing in Game of Thrones.
The lush, picturesque gardens were the backdrop for pivotal scenes involving characters like Sansa, Lady Olenna, and Lord Varys.
As you stroll through the arboretum, you can vividly envision the plot twists and conversations that unfolded among the greenery.
The gardens' spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea only add to the tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect day trip for fans.
Beyond its beauty, the arboretum offers a unique chance to step into the realm of Westeros and experience the magic of the series firsthand.
Don't miss this filming location highlight when visiting Dubrovnik.
Scenic Natural Beauty
Immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty of Trsteno Arboretum, where the lush gardens and stunning Adriatic Sea views create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Located just outside of Dubrovnik, this picturesque arboretum served as the filming location for the palace gardens of King's Landing in Game of Thrones.
Stroll through the same gardens where Sansa, Lady Olenna, and Lord Varys shared pivotal moments. The serene setting, complemented by spectacular sea views, offers a tranquil escape and a unique opportunity to traverse in the footsteps of your favorite characters.
Whether you're a Game of Thrones fan or simply appreciate natural beauty, Trsteno Arboretum provides a peaceful day trip that allows you to discover the enchanting landscapes showcased in the series.
Historical Significance
Trsteno Arboretum, a site that dates back to the late 15th century, has captivated visitors for centuries. Located just outside Dubrovnik, this arboretum served as the setting for the Palace Gardens of King's Landing in Game of Thrones.
Visitors can walk through the same lush, picturesque gardens where scenes involving Sansa, Lady Olenna, and Lord Varys were filmed. The arboretum's spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea perfectly complemented these tranquil garden scenes.
As visitors stroll through the arboretum, they can envision the plot twists that unfolded within the King's Landing palace gardens. This serene day trip offers a unique opportunity for Game of Thrones fans to experience a piece of cinematic history intertwined with natural beauty.
Jesuit Staircase
The Jesuit Staircase in Dubrovnik's Old Town famously hosted Cersei Lannister's harrowing 'walk of shame' scene in Game of Thrones. This baroque-style staircase leads up to the Church of St. Ignatius, adding to the religious significance of the setting.
As a visitor, you can walk the same steps that Cersei did, immersing yourself in the powerful emotions of that iconic scene. The historic charm and architectural features of the staircase contribute to the authenticity of your Game of Thrones experience.
Owing to its role in the series, the Jesuit Staircase has become a popular attraction for fans visiting Dubrovnik, the primary filming location for King's Landing. It's a must-see for any enthusiast traversing the city.
Diocletian's Palace
Situated in the heart of Split, Diocletian's Palace served as the set for Daenerys Targaryen's throne room and dragon holding area in Game of Thrones. This 3rd-century Roman palace is a UNESCO-listed site, offering a rich historical backdrop.
You can investigate the eerie tunnels and basement rooms where Daenerys' dragons were kept during filming. The grandeur and architectural details of the palace reflect the power and scale of Daenerys' domain.
To enhance your visit, consider these tips:
- Investigate the underground chambers where scenes with the dragons were filmed.
- Admire the ancient Roman architecture that adds to the show's authenticity.
- Visit the Peristyle, the central square of the palace.
- Learn about the palace's history through guided tours.
Fort Lovrijenac
Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik is one of the most iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, serving as the setting for the Red Keep in King's Landing.
This 16th-century fortress, with its 12-meter thick walls, provided the perfect backdrop for many memorable scenes, like Joffrey's nameday celebration and Jaime Lannister's knighting.
As you traverse the fort, you'll appreciate its historical significance and the strategic advantage its location offered, making it an ideal choice for the show.
Iconic Filming Location
Step into the world of Game of Thrones as you explore Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik, where the show's iconic Red Keep scenes came to life. The imposing fortress served as the backdrop for numerous scenes set in the Red Keep, the residence of the King of Andals and the First Men.
With its 175 stone steps and commanding views, Fort Lovrijenac added a sense of power and authority to the show.
Visitors can climb up to the fort and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Red Keep.
Key scenes filmed here include:
- Tournaments and royal events at King's Landing.
- Strategic views showcasing the seat of power.
- Commanding architecture reflecting strength.
- Iconic battles and political meetings.
Historical Significance
You'll find Fort Lovrijenac's historical significance rooted deeply in its strategic importance and its role in defending Dubrovnik from invaders.
Known as the 'Dubrovnik Gibraltar', this 16th-century fortress stood as a mighty barrier against naval attacks. Its location on a steep cliff provided commanding views over the Adriatic Sea, enabling the defenders to spot and repel invaders efficiently.
This strategic advantage made Fort Lovrijenac an essential part of Dubrovnik's fortifications.
When you climb the 175 stone steps to the fort, you'll appreciate its imposing architecture and historical role.
This stronghold not only served as a defense mechanism but also became an iconic filming location for the Red Keep in Game of Thrones, intertwining historical and modern significance.
Pile Gate and Bay
Situated in Dubrovnik's Old Town, Pile Gate served as the iconic entrance to King's Landing, making it a must-visit for any Game of Thrones fan. This historic gate featured prominently in scenes like the 'Riot of King's Landing'.
Nearby, Pile Bay provided the backdrop for notable moments involving characters like Littlefinger and Cersei.
To fully immerse yourself in the experience, consider the following activities:
- Walk through Pile Gate: Relive the entrance to King's Landing.
- Explore Pile Bay: See where pivotal scenes were filmed.
- Visit Rupe Ethnographic Museum: Uncover the location of Oberyn's conversation with Tyrion.
- Stroll the narrow streets and alleyways: Enjoy the authentic medieval setting used in the show.
These spots offer a genuine glimpse into the realm of Westeros.
Minceta Tower
Minceta Tower, the highest point in Dubrovnik, served as the mystical House of the Undying in Game of Thrones. You can ascend the 175 stone steps to reach the tower, where you'll enjoy panoramic views across the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. The tower's iconic terracotta rooftops are a recognizable feature in scenes with Daenerys and Jorah Mormont. Its strategic location and unique architectural attributes made it the perfect backdrop for the show's mystical elements. Visiting Minceta Tower allows you to immerse yourself in the iconic locations of Game of Thrones.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Dubrovnik, Croatia |
| Role in GoT | House of the Undying |
| Steps to Climb | 175 stone steps |
| Views | Old Town, Adriatic Sea |
| Notable Scenes | Daenerys and Jorah Mormont |
Klis Fortress
When you visit Klis Fortress, you're stepping into a site rich with historical significance, dating back centuries.
From its ancient walls, you'll enjoy breathtaking scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
The fortress is easily accessible and open to visitors, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia.
Historical Significance
Klis Fortress, with its roots reaching back to the 3rd century, provides not just a stunning backdrop for Game of Thrones but also a glimpse into Croatia's rich historical tapestry. This ancient stronghold has played an essential role throughout Croatian history, serving as a key defensive position against invaders.
When you visit, you'll find:
- Historical Artifacts: Uncover remnants of different eras, from ancient Roman to medieval periods.
- Architectural Marvels: Investigate the fortress's unique structure, built into the mountainside.
- Military History: Learn about its strategic importance in various wars and conflicts.
- Cultural Heritage: Experience the preservation efforts that have kept this historical site alive.
Scenic Views
Perched high on a cliff, the fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making you feel like you're part of the epic domain of Game of Thrones.
From the ancient walls and winding walkways of Klis Fortress, you can gaze out over the sprawling landscape, imagining Daenerys Targaryen's conquest of Meereen. The strategic location atop a steep cliff adds to the sense of scale and power associated with her reign.
As you traverse, you'll recognize familiar locations enhanced by computer-generated imagery in the show. The dramatic, mountainous backdrop creates an immersive experience, allowing you to step into the universe of Game of Thrones and witness the grandeur of Meereen firsthand.
Accessibility and Hours
As you plan your visit to Klis Fortress and immerse yourself in its epic landscapes, you'll find it conveniently open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM during the summer season and 9 AM to 4 PM during the winter.
To enhance your experience, consider these accessibility and convenience characteristics:
- Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, including English, for an additional charge.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Ramps and elevators assist visitors with mobility challenges.
- Parking: On-site parking is available for added convenience.
- Food and Beverages: Vendors within the fortress grounds offer refreshments.
To save time, purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid potential long queues at the entrance.
Lokrum Island
Located just 600 meters off Dubrovnik's coast, Lokrum Island is where Game of Thrones brought the city of Qarth to life. The island's lush, forested landscape and medieval ruins provided the perfect backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen's first encounter with the spice merchants.
According to legend, Richard the Lion Heart shipwrecked on Lokrum Island in 1192, inspiring plans to build a church there.
Visitors can traverse the island's Benedictine Monastery, botanical gardens, and fortress ruins, immersing themselves in the Game of Thrones filming experience.
Don't miss the original Iron Throne in the Lokrum Island Visitor Centre, where you can pose for photos on the iconic seat of power.
Bokar Fortress
Above Dubrovnik's Pile Gate, Bokar Fortress served as a striking representation of King's Landing in Game of Thrones. This fortress was a key defense point and appeared prominently in scenes with Tyrion and Varys. When you visit, you'll be amazed by its strategic location overlooking the city.
Explore Bokar Fortress to:
- Appreciate Dubrovnik's medieval architecture: The fortress showcases impressive stonework and design.
- Enjoy panoramic views: The views from the top offer a cinematic backdrop of Dubrovnik's historic old town.
- Relive iconic scenes: Walk where your favorite characters once stood.
- Understand its historical significance: Learn about its role in defending Dubrovnik.
Bokar Fortress is a must-see for any Game of Thrones fan.
Zrnovnica
Beyond the bustling streets of Dubrovnik, Zrnovnica offers a serene escape and another iconic filming location for Game of Thrones. This picturesque village, located near Split, served as the backdrop for several memorable scenes.
One of the most notable is the bathing scene with Missandei and Grey Worm. The area's natural beauty, featuring a tranquil river and lush greenery, provided the perfect setting.
While in Zrnovnica, you can also visit the local quarry, which was transformed into the setting for the fight between the Unsullied and the Sons of the Harpy. The combination of historical architecture and natural landscapes makes Zrnovnica a must-visit for any Game of Thrones enthusiast. Enjoy discovering the peaceful surroundings and relive your favorite scenes.
St. Dominika Street
St. Dominika Street, situated in Dubrovnik's Old Town, served as the bustling market setting in King's Landing for Game of Thrones.
The street's stone houses and white staircases offered an authentic medieval backdrop, perfect for the show.
Significantly, Cersei Lannister's infamous 'walk of shame' was filmed here, with the steps and alleyways providing a dramatic setting for this pivotal scene.
Over 1,000 actresses applied to be Cersei's body double for this emotionally charged moment.
Key highlights of St. Dominika Street:
- Location: Dubrovnik's Old Town.
- Features: Stone houses, white staircases.
- Notable Scene: Cersei's 'walk of shame.'
- Casting: Over 1,000 applications for Cersei's body double.
