Game of Thrones filming locations

Home of the White Walkers

Vatnajökull National Park was used in Game of Thrones as the backdrop for many of the scenes involving the White Walkers. It is a stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and ice caves, which made it the perfect place to film the scenes of the White Walkers' march to the Wall.

The most exciting thing in the scenes filmed here was when the White Walkers first appeared and attacked the Night's Watch. This scene was especially thrilling because it was the first time we saw the White Walkers in action on the show, and it was a massive battle filmed over the course of a month, and thousands of extras were used.

The Purple Wedding

The Alcázar of Seville was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. It is a royal palace originally built for the Christian king Peter of Castile in the 14th century. The palace is a mix of Mudéjar and Gothic architecture and is famous for its lush gardens, tranquil patios, and impressive courtyards.

The infamous Purple Wedding at the Water Gardens of Dorne is probably the most exciting scene filmed in Seville. This scene was filmed in the Alcazar’s gardens, where the wedding of Joffrey Baratheon and Margaery Tyrell took place. In the scene, the guests are seated in a grandiose setting, and the wedding procession starts with the ringing of bells. As the guests watch, Joffrey is poisoned and dies in front of everyone, a shocking and unexpected twist in the story.

Yet another shocking scene filmed here was the fight between Oberyn Martell and the Mountain. This climactic scene features intense fighting, powerful music, and a shocking conclusion.

The Iron Islands

Game of Thrones filmed a number of scenes in Zumaia, a small fishing village in the Basque Country of northern Spain. Specifically, it was used to represent the Iron Islands, home of the Greyjoys. The town also provides a picturesque backdrop for the Ironborn's action-packed scenes, and Itzurun beach is the same as Dragonstone beach.

Zumaia is a perfect fit for the Iron Islands as it is situated on a rugged coastline, with ancient cliffs that rise up from the sea. The shoreline consists of rocky formations, long beaches, and stunningly beautiful sandstone cliffs. The area is also known for its unique geological formations known as "flysch," which are thousands of years old.

The walk of shame & battle of Blackwater

The city of Dubrovnik in Croatia served as the iconic King's Landing, the capital of Westeros. Dubrovnik is a picturesque walled city on the Adriatic Sea, and its old town features baroque buildings, cobblestoned squares, narrow alleys, and marble-paved streets.

One of the most memorable scenes filmed in Dubrovnik is Cersei walking naked down the city streets with thousands of her subjects yelling, "shame! shame! shame!". This literal walk of shame was punishment for her various crimes and started at the famous staircase to the church in the old town.

Another important scene filmed here is The Battle of Blackwater, when Stannis Baratheon attacks King's Landing, filmed at Fort Lovrijenac. The fort's walls were lit up with a brilliant green fire, created by the Wildfire that Tyrion Lannister had ordered to be released on the attacking ships. The ensuing battle was one of the highlights of the entire series.

Where Khal Drogo married Daenerys

Much of season 1 was filmed on the island of Gozo in Malta. It was the location for the original King's Landing and was chosen as the location for its unique landscapes, which are perfect for creating a mythical and fantasy world. The stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Gozo's dramatic cliffs perfectly encapsulated the series' intensity.

Several scenes were shot on location in the Azure Window. The Azure Window is a natural arch that sits on the rocky cliffs of Dwejra Bay and provided the perfect backdrop. Among other things, Khal Drogo married Daenerys Targaryen in a lively ceremony. Sadly the Azure Window has since collapsed, but Gozo is still a wonderful place to visit.

The Water Gardens of Dorne

The Almodóvar del Río Castle in Spain was used as the Water Gardens of Dorne in season five of Game of Thrones. The castle is an impressive medieval fortress built in the 12th century and sits atop a hillside overlooking the Guadalquivir River. It features a Gothic-style main tower, a surrounding wall with seven towers, a large courtyard, and a bridge that leads up to the entrance.

The most exciting scene filmed at Almodóvar del Río was a duel between the characters Bronn and the Sand Snakes. The fight was intense and included some impressive choreography and stunts.

Where Daenerys became the Mother of Dragons

The tiny Maltese town of Gżira was chosen as a filming location due to its unique and stunning architecture, which was perfect for creating the world of Westeros. The streets and buildings of Gżira provided an ideal backdrop for many of the scenes in the show, especially those set in King's Landing.

The city has been used in several scenes throughout the show, most notably in the Season One finale, "Baelor". This is where Daenerys Targaryen sets the city of Astapor ablaze, and the resulting scenes are shot in the Grand Harbor of Gżira. The Grand Harbor of Gżira was chosen because of its unique topography and its resemblance to the Mereen harbor of Mesopotamia. The scene was shot during the evening and night, and the crew used vast amounts of smoke and fire to create the effect of Daenerys's burning of Astapor. The most exciting part of the scene is when Daenerys walks into the fire and emerges unscathed, signifying her ascension as the Mother of Dragons.

The snowy Frostfangs

Grundarfjörður, a small fishing village on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in Iceland, was used as a filming location for several scenes. The picturesque town was used to film scenes in the North of Westeros, specifically in the region known as the Frostfangs.

The most exciting scene filmed in Grundarfjörður was when Jon Snow, Ygritte, and the Wildlings cross the Frostfangs on their way to the Wall. This scene was filmed in and around Grundarfjörður due to the mountainous landscape, stunning fjords, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks, which perfectly matched the description of the Frostfangs in the books. The scenes of Jon and Ygritte walking through the snow-covered landscape and scaling the icy cliffs were some of the most memorable in the series.

Daenerys found her army here in the city of Yunkai

Aït Benhaddou is an ancient fortified city located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It has been used as a filming location for many movies and television series, including Game of Thrones. In the show, Aït Benhaddou was used to film scenes from the city of Yunkai, located in the Essos region.

The most exciting scene that was filmed at Aït Benhaddou was the scene where Daenerys Targaryen arrives in Astapor to purchase her army of Unsullied. This scene was filmed in the Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, which is an impressive mud-brick fortress that was built in the 11th century. The city’s unique architecture and dramatic setting were perfect for the scene, which featured hundreds of extras, a large fleet of elephants, and a dramatic sunset. This scene was pivotal in Daenerys’ story arc, and it was exciting to watch her take control of her destiny and begin her journey toward becoming the Queen of Westeros.

The city of Bravos

The city of Guadalajara was used to film some of the exterior scenes of the city of Bravos in Game of Thrones. Guadalajara is filled with winding cobblestone streets, brightly colored buildings, and a bustling market.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed here was when Arya Stark, disguised as a boy, made her way to the House of Black and White. She was chased by the Waif, a skilled assassin, through the city's narrow alleys, dodging carts and vendors before finally reaching the House of Black and White. It was an intense and thrilling scene that really showcased Guadalajara's beauty.

Where Jon Snow fell in love

Grjótagjá is a small lava cave in the Lake Mývatn region of Iceland. It was used for the scene in which Jon Snow and Ygritte share their first kiss. This scene was filmed in Grjótagjá because of its unique and dramatic setting as a lava cave with dark rock walls and eerie pools of water.

It is also here that Jon Snow and Ygritte bathe together in the hot spring located in the lava cave. This scene was chosen to be filmed in Grjótagjá because of its natural beauty and secluded atmosphere, which enhances the romantic nature of the scene. The hot spring also provides a unique setting for the scene, as it is surrounded by dark walls and illuminated by the natural light entering the cave from the entrance.

Home of the Starks

Doune Castle in Scotland was used to film the exterior of Winterfell in Season 1, where the Starks live. This castle was chosen because of its ancient and imposing look. It was used for various scenes, including the courtyard where Ned Stark and his sons practice their swordplay, the great hall where he meets with Robert Baratheon, and the tower where Catelyn Stark confronts Jaime Lannister.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed at Doune Castle was the trial of Ned Stark in Season 1. In this scene, Ned is put on trial for treason by King Joffrey, and his trial is presided over by Lord Tywin Lannister. This scene was incredibly powerful and intense, as Ned refused to kneel to Joffrey and was sentenced to death. This scene was crucial in setting up the story and events of Game of Thrones and was a great example of the show's effective use of drama and suspense.

Real-life Meereen

Split's Diocletian Palace, built in the 4th century AD, served as the setting for the city of Meereen. The city's narrow lanes and alleyways provide the perfect setting for the city's slave quarters.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed in Split was the scene in which Daenerys Targaryen walks through the streets of Meereen to the Great Pyramid. The scene was filmed in the heart of Split, in the Peristyle Square, with hundreds of citizens of Split standing in as extras. The scene is made even more impressive by the presence of the city's grand palace walls and the nearby bell tower.

Medieval realism

Essaouira is a stunning coastal city known for its ancient architecture, colorful streets, and unique walled medina, which is a perfect fit for the show's medieval setting. It is the ideal location to film scenes set in the cities of Astapor, Slaver's Bay, and Yunkai.

The scene where the Waif attacks Arya Stark is one of many filmed in Essaouira. This scene was shot in the winding alleyways of the medina, creating a dark and claustrophobic atmosphere. The scene is filled with tension and suspense, and the use of the real-world location makes it even more exciting.

Where the Red Wedding took place

Parts of Game of Thrones that were filmed in Antrim, Northern Ireland, include scenes from Winterfell, the Kingsroad, and the Haunted Forest. This is due to the area's rugged terrain, rolling hills, and lush green forests, which perfectly match the descriptions of the land in the books.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed in Antrim was the infamous "Red Wedding" scene, which took place in a large castle in the North known as the Twins. This scene was pivotal to the show's plot and was filled with intense emotion and drama.

Where Arya got away

Mdina, a fortified walled city in Malta, was used to represent the cities of King’s Landing and Pentos, where many of the show’s characters originated from. The city’s narrow cobblestone streets, old buildings, and stunning views work well for the show’s fantasy world.

Mdina was used for scenes throughout the series, but the most exciting scene filmed was when Arya Stark escaped King’s Landing in Season 2. The scene begins with Arya and her friend Gendry leaving the city walls and walking through the streets of Mdina. As they walk, they pass by old buildings and cobblestone streets, eventually coming to a bridge where Arya stops for a moment to look back at the city. After a few tense moments, Arya and Gendry make their escape, jumping off the bridge and into the river below. The scene is thrilling and beautifully shot, showcasing the beauty of Mdina and the daring escape of the two characters.

Using the bullring for a different kind of fight

Parts of the fifth and sixth seasons of Game of Thrones were filmed in the city of Córdoba, located in the southern region of Andalusia. It is known for its impressive architecture, including its famous Mezquita, or Great Mosque. The production team chose Córdoba as a filming location because of its unique Moorish architecture, which was perfect for capturing the look of the world of Westeros.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed in Córdoba was the fight between the Mountain and the Viper in the fifth season. This fight was filmed in the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza de Córdoba, an 18th-century bullfighting ring. The scene was shot over three days and used over 200 extras.

The crossing of the narrow sea

Šibenik has been a filming destination for Game of Thrones since season 2. The city was chosen for its spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea, charming and picturesque old town, and medieval fortresses.

One scene that was filmed in Šibenik is the wedding of Joffrey and Margaery Tyrell. This scene was filmed in the Cathedral of St. James and the nearby town square. The cathedral is a magnificent 15th-century structure, and the town square was an excellent fit for this lavish ceremony.

Another was the scene where Arya Stark, disguised as a boy, is attempting to cross the Narrow Sea. The scene was shot at the old town harbor of Šibenik, which was a perfect setting for the intense scene. The scene was filmed on the St. Anthony's Channel, the main entrance to the harbor and surrounded by the city's historic walls. The scene was shot at night, which added to the suspense of the scene. The harbor was lit up by dozens of lanterns and torches, creating a magical atmosphere.

Where Daenerys and her Unsullied won an early battle

The island of Lokrum, located just 600 meters off the coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia, has been a famous filming location for Game of Thrones. The island is known for its lush vegetation, rocky cliffs, and beautiful Benedictine Monastery, which was used as the setting for Qarth.

One of the most exciting scenes filmed on Lokrum was the fight between Daenerys and the Sons of the Harpy. This scene was filmed on the island's rocky cliffs, with the breathtaking backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. In this scene, Daenerys and her Unsullied army fight off the Sons of the Harpy in a spectacular battle.

The battle of the bastards

Game of Thrones was filmed in many locations in Belfast, including Linen Mill Studios, Paint Hall Studios, and Titanic Studios. The most exciting thing to happen in the scenes filmed in Belfast was the Battle of the Bastards, which was the climax of Season 6. This epic battle featured hundreds of extras and stunt performers and was filmed over several weeks.

At Linen Mill Studios, they built some of the most iconic sets from the show, including the King's Landing castle and the Red Keep. The Red Keep was a massive 90-foot-long castle with walls made of limestone and an arched entryway complete with a large iron gate.

At Paint Hall Studios, the studio was designed for the show and looks like a massive warehouse with a few large soundstages surrounded by a green screen and other sets. The city of King's Landing was created at the studio, with a large throne room, a Sept, a market, and different iconic sets.

And Titanic Studios has been one of the main studios and post-production facilities for the entire series, establishing Northern Ireland as a prominent place for TV production.

A dragon to the rescue

Klis Fortress was sometimes used to represent the city of Meereen, the capital of the former slave-holding nation of Slaver’s Bay. Klis was chosen for its impressive fortress and strategic location near the Adriatic Sea.

The most exciting scene filmed at Klis Fortress was part of the epic fight between Daenerys Targaryen and the Sons of the Harpy. This scene was filmed on the fortress walls and featured fierce sword fighting and hand-to-hand combat. The scene was a pivotal moment in the series, as Daenerys stands alone against a horde of masked attackers and ultimately emerges victorious with the help of her loyal dragon.

Theon's escape from Winterfell

The scenes filmed in Strangford were mostly in the water and featured Theon Greyjoy's escape from Winterfell. Theon was forced to fight off his own Ironborn crew in a heated battle. After being betrayed by his own people and escaping captivity, Theon managed to make it to safety in the water and away from Winterfell. It was a thrilling moment and a great way to kick off his journey to save his family.

The Strangford Lough and its surrounding landscape provided the perfect backdrop for these scenes. They were shot at various locations around Strangford Lough, including Castle Ward and Audley's castle. The scenery was mostly made up of rolling green hills, castle ruins, and rocky shorelines.