Epic Game Of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Experience In Croatia

Since HBO’s hit fantasy drama series came out in 2011, it has fast become one of the most watched shows on the planet and it seems we’re all pretty crazy about it (for good reason). One of the best places to visit the fantastical sets of Game of Thrones in real life is in Croatia.

Croatia's stunning landscapes and historic architecture provided the perfect backdrop for many iconic scenes in HBO's Game of Thrones. From the fortified walls of Dubrovnik to the ancient corridors of Split, fans can immerse themselves in the real-world settings of King's Landing, Meereen, and more. Here's an updated guide to the must-visit GOT filming locations you can explore while island hopping in Croatia.

Where Was King's Landing Filmed in Croatia?

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," served as the primary filming location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Key sites include:

The Red Keep Film Location: Fort Lovrijenac

This imposing fortress stands just outside Dubrovnik's western wall. It was prominently featured as the Red Keep, notably during the Battle of Blackwater Bay. Visitors can climb its heights for panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Located on a rock at 37 meters above sea level, it will be hard to miss Fort Lovrijenac as you sail towards Dubrovnik into King’s Landing.

The 12-metre thick wall of this gigantic fort was built by Croatians upon hearing that Venetians might invade them. The Croatians cleverly managed to escape the invasion by creating the illusion that there was a huge citadel to protect the city and later completed the building that is there today.

Up for a hike? Climb 175 stone steps to the forts imposing beacon where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Dubrovnik’s skyline overlooking the Adriatic sea.

Here you’ll be able to see where the tournament thrown in honour of King Joffrey’s name day took place, as well as where Cersei Lannister speaks with Petyr Baelish in Season 2.

You’ll also be able to follow in the footsteps of Stannis and Davos as they relive the Battle of the Blackwater in the neighbouring bay.

Kings Landing Ramparts: Dubrovnik City Walls

These ancient walls encircle the Old Town and were used extensively to depict King's Landing's fortifications. Walking along them offers a tangible connection to the series and breathtaking vistas.

Shame Stairs Film Location: Jesuit Staircase

Located in the heart of Dubrovnik, this staircase became the setting for Cersei Lannister's infamous "Walk of Shame." Fans can traverse these steps and relive one of the series' most memorable moments.

Blackwater Bay Pier Film Location: West Harbour Pier

Located just across the bay from The Red Keep is West Harbour Pier, a recurring and well-known set in Game of Thrones know as Blackwater Bay Pier.

Here you’ll find yourself reliving the moment that Sansa and Shae watched ships from the stone pier in Season 3, as the sun sets in the distance.

Explore this beautiful stone pier and relive this scene during the day, before setting sailing in the evening to chase the sunset.

Blackwater Bay Film Location: West Harbour

Many of Dubrovnik’s most photogenic places lie just outside of the city’s red stone facades and off in the city’s surrounding mountains and secluded bays.

Venture a little out of the city’s hub and, tucked into the cliff-side of West Harbour, you’ll find the secret wooden door to the Red Keep used by Davos in Blackwater Bay.

The incredible thing about sailing Croatia by yacht, rather than travelling by land, is that you might get a chance to jump off the yacht and discover this iconic spot on your very own paddleboard.

The Mountain And The Viper’s Battle: Hotel Belvedere

As with discovering the wooden door to the Red Keep, it is clear that exploring Dubrovnik by yacht opens up a whole new world of beautiful hideaways.

One such location is the, now hazardous, Hotel Belvedere, used as the location for season four’s finale, ‘The Mountain and The Viper’.

Though access to the hotel itself is not permitted, exploring on your own yacht means that you might get to sail to the edge of the hotel’s atmosphere, used to stage the series’ most memorable fight.

Can You Visit Qarth from Game of Thrones?

Yes, the lush Lokrum Island, located just 600 meters off Dubrovnik's coast, represented the city of Qarth in Season 2. Accessible only by boat, Lokrum offers botanical gardens, peacocks roaming freely, and the Iron Throne replica, providing a serene escape and a touch of Westeros.

After a day exploring Dubrovnik’s red stone architecture and imposing fortresses, the lush green island of Lokrum is a refreshing change in scene for an afternoon sail. Lokrum Island is a lavish island also known as the city of Qarth, ruled by the ‘pureborn’ in Game of Thrones.

You’ll recognise this location as the place where Daenerys Targaryen gets a frosty welcome from the spice king at his palace and charmed the city’s elite in Season 2.

Just as mysterious in real life, legend holds that Richard the Lionheart, King of England, sheltered here after his ship was wrecked when he was returning from the Crusades.

Accessible only by boat and therefore not often explored by your average Croatian tourist, discover one of Dubrovnik’s hidden treasures as you.

This island dates back to 1023 and thus truly does look as fascinating as it is showcased in the fantasy drama, so live like Qarth’s aristocrats and enjoy a glass of wine as you get to look back to the vibrant coastline of Dubrovnik on the horizon.

Daenerys Throne Room Film Location: Diocletian’s Palace

Though Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most famous Game of Thrones destination, you should also make time to check out the city of Split where the imposing stone throne room of Queen Daenerys, the mother of dragons, is located.

Once a prominent place for Roman settlement, Diocletian’s palace was built for the Roman emperors over 1700 years ago and looks befitting for the queen and her dragons.

Marvel at the magnificent palace’s ancient walls and head into the eerie tunnels used to imprison Daenerys dragon and where the queen of dragons trains her beasts.

Where Were the Meereen Scenes Filmed?

Split, Croatia's second-largest city, provided the backdrop for many scenes set in Meereen, the largest of the Slaver's Bay cities. Notable locations include:

• Diocletian's Palace: This UNESCO World Heritage site, built in the 4th century, housed Daenerys Targaryen's throne room and the dungeons where her dragons were kept. Exploring its subterranean chambers offers a glimpse into the show's rich tapestry.
• Klis Fortress: Perched atop a hill overlooking Split, this medieval fortress stood in for Meereen's exterior. Its strategic vantage point provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite among visitors.

Are There Guided Tours for Game of Thrones Locations in Croatia?

Absolutely. Numerous guided tours are available, especially in Dubrovnik and Split, offering in-depth insights into the filming process and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. These tours often include multimedia presentations, allowing fans to compare scenes from the show with real-life locations.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Game of Thrones Locations?

The ideal time to explore these sites is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are thinner, providing a more intimate experience.

Embarking on a journey through Croatia's Game of Thrones filming locations offers fans an immersive experience, blending the magic of the series with the country's rich history and breathtaking scenery.

What's the Best Way to See Game of Thrones Locations in Croatia?

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the bustling heart of the city or appreciate the views from the shores on board your yacht, exploring Croatia by yacht is an unforgettable way to experience some of your favourite Game of Thrones filming locations.

With two sailing routes that explore the very best of Croatia, you can choose the ultimate way you want to experience this beautiful country and check out these epic Game of Thrones destinations. Our Croatia Voyager is the ultimate Game of Thrones fan route sailing from Split to Dubrovnik or vice versa, so you’ll be able to tick off all our favourite Game of Thrones destinations.

Dying to relieve some of your favourite Game of Thrones scenes in magical Croatia? Book your Croatian Sailing Holiday and sail into King’s Landing with MedSailors.