Dubrovnik for Game of Thrones Fans
For eight seasons, Game of Thrones captivated millions of viewers across the globe with its gripping storylines, ruthless characters, and jaw-dropping locations. But while Westeros may be a fantasy world, many of its most iconic scenes were filmed right here in Dubrovnik.
From the moment the city stepped into the spotlight as King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, it became a must-visit destination for fans eager to follow in the footsteps of Cersei, Tyrion, Arya, and the rest of the cast.
Dubrovnik's Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provided the perfect real-life setting for King's Landing. Its medieval walls, narrow limestone streets, ancient forts, and dramatic views of the Adriatic Sea brought the fantasy to life. For fans of the show, visiting Dubrovnik offers the chance to step directly into the world of Game of Thrones - and it doesn't take much imagination to picture a dragon flying overhead or a royal procession coming down the Stradun.
One of the most famous filming locations is Fort Lovrjenac, the imposing fortress perched high above the sea, which doubled as the Red Keep. This is where the Iron Throne sits (on-screen, at least) and where many power plays and confrontations between characters took place. The fort offers sweeping views of the Old City and coastline, and an eerie familiarity for anyone who's ever watched a Lannister scheme unfold.
In the very heart of the city, fans will recognize the Jesuit Staircase leading to St. Ignatius Church. This baroque staircase played a central role in one of the show's most talked-about scenes: Cersei Lannister's Walk of Shame. It's an unmissable spot for a photo, or perhaps just a quiet moment of reflection.
Another key site is the City Walls, which featured in numerous scenes and allowed filmmakers to create the illusion of a sprawling capital city. A walk along these walls gives fans a view not only of Game of Thrones filming locations but also of Dubrovnik's rich architectural and cultural heritage. You'll quickly see why the production team chose to film here—every corner of the Old City looks like a perfectly preserved medieval set.
Gradac Park, located just behind Fort Lovrjenac, served as the backdrop for the notorious Purple Wedding, King Joffrey's doomed celebration. It may be one of the show's darkest moments, but the park itself is peaceful, green, and offers great views of the coastline and fort.
If you're looking to explore more, consider visiting Lokrum Island, just a short boat ride from the Old Port. The island itself was used for scenes set in Qarth, and in a delightful nod to fans, Lokrum even houses a replica of the Iron Throne that visitors can sit on - perfect for your very own royal photo op.
Top Tip: Head to Lokrum Island early in the day to beat the heat, enjoy the Iron Throne replica without a queue, and have time to explore its hidden coves and botanical gardens.
Just 20 minutes north of Dubrovnik lies the stunning Trsteno Arboretum, which doubled as the palace gardens of the Red Keep in seasons 3 and 4. This enchanting 15th-century Renaissance garden is the oldest arboretum on the Adriatic coast and one of the oldest in Europe. Fans will instantly recognize it as the leafy Tyrell Gardens where Sansa meets Lady Olenna, an unforgettable scene that still feels alive amid the arboretum's lush greenery and flowering plants.
Top Tip: Time your visit carefully: the arboretum is at its most magical in spring and early summer when blooms and plane trees are in full glory, ideal for fans chasing the show's lush Tyrell scenes.
For the full experience, several Game of Thrones walking tours are available in Dubrovnik. These tours are led by expert guides (some of whom even worked as extras on the show) and include fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, production secrets, and scene-by-scene comparisons using photos and tablets. It's the best way to dive deep into the making of the series while discovering Dubrovnik's history at the same time. Even if you've never watched an episode, the Game of Thrones connection has added a new dimension to Dubrovnik's global appeal. But for fans, the city is more than a travel destination - it's a living, breathing fantasy set, full of magic, intrigue, and unforgettable scenery.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Dubrovnik, Croatia














