The TV adaptation of Game of Thrones may have drawn to an end, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit some of its most awe-inspiring filming locations to relive the adventures. Castles in Scotland, ice caps in Iceland and medieval centres in Croatia were all used for GoT scenes that made us feel as if we were a part of the action.
So, which GoT filming locations in Europe are worth your attention?
Doune Castle, Scotland
In the world of George R. R. Martin (or at least the screen-adapted world of his books), Scotland’s Doune Castle is the site of Winterfell. Game of Thrones is full of heroes, but we can all agree the Starks were the main draw of the show. Want to see where they lived, drew up battle plans and defeated the Army of the Dead? You need to visit Doune Castle on your European tour.
Besides its appearances in GoT, the best thing about “Winterfell” is that nothing is off limits to the public. Come take a look around, and you’ll be able to look in every room and climb every staircase.
Magheramorne Quarry, Northern Ireland
Before we leave the UK as we explore the best European filming locations of Game of Thrones, we’d be remiss not to mention Magheramorne Quarry. This is where the Nightwatch stared across the barren wastelands from their home at Castle Black. In real life, the place looks a little different without the use of CGI. Nevertheless, Magheramorne Quarry is bound to capture the imagination of any true GoT fan.
While you’re checking out GoT filming locations in Northern Ireland, don’t miss The Dark Hedges and Downhill Beach (both of which are near Stannis’ stronghold), Shane’s Castle and the Caves of Cushendun. Dozens of GoT scenes were filmed around Northern Ireland.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Croatia’s tourist appeal has skyrocketed since Game of Thrones hit our TV screens. Many of the most recognisable locations are found in Croatia, namely King’s Landing, which was filmed in the city of Dubrovnik. Here, you can also view the Red Keep, House of the Undying and Qarth.
Not had your fill of GoT in Croatia? Head over to Split, which has an Old Town that inspires awe – so much so that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where GoT’s directors unsurprisingly shot lots of the TV show’s scenes.
Girona, Spain
The filmmakers of GoT really took advantage of Europe’s history to create a sense of authenticity in their TV series. Girona, a beautiful Spanish city, is where you’ll find landmarks featured in the show such as the Cathedral of Girona, El Call, Plaça dels Jurats and the Arab Baths.
If you’re trekking around Spain and really want to pay pilgrimage to Game of Thrones, you’ll need to head to the nation’s North East to find Bardenas Reales. This beautiful desert is the site of the Dothraki Sea. Even if you’re not a GoT fan, the journey to this otherworldly landscape is worth it for the view alone. It’s only a short ride from Barcelona, so make sure you check it out.
Vatnajökull, Iceland
Beyond the wall – it’s one of the most feared destinations in the Game of Thrones world. In our world, it’s one of the most amazing filming locations of the show. Vatnajökull is Iceland’s largest ice cap, and it sits on top of multiple volcanoes and volcanic lakes. If you plan a trip to Iceland, remember to pack plenty of warm clothing (and your camera).
If you’d like to visit some of these mystical locations, make sure you check out our Coach Travel Network in Europe. You can plan your own Game-of-Thrones-themed vacation here.
