Chloe Peterson
If you’ve ever watched Game of Thrones and caught yourself thinking, “I’d pay good money to stand right there,” you’re in luck.
A surprising amount of Westeros was built from real-world places you can visit without a Hollywood pass—no dragons required, and no need to pledge allegiance to any House.
From sun-drenched palaces and cliffside pathways to ancient stone walls that feel like they’re hiding secrets, these locations deliver the same jaw-dropping atmosphere that made the show so addictive.
Whether you want an easy European city break, a scenic road trip, or a bucket-list island hike, these seven spots let you step into the world of the series while still enjoying modern comforts, great food, and plenty of photo-worthy views.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia (King’s Landing)
Stepping inside Dubrovnik’s Old Town feels like walking onto a set, even if you’ve never seen a single episode.
The city’s stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and gleaming Adriatic backdrop capture the grandeur that made King’s Landing so memorable, while the narrow lanes and staircases practically beg you to wander without a plan.
A stroll along the ancient fortifications gives you sweeping views over the sea and the city’s maze of streets, and it’s easy to picture dramatic confrontations unfolding around every corner.
When you need a break from sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of cafés, gelato stops, and waterfront spots for a slower pace.
Visit early in the day to dodge crowds and heat, and you’ll get a calmer, more cinematic vibe.
2. Dark Hedges (Bregagh Road), Northern Ireland (The Kingsroad)
Tucked into the Northern Irish countryside is a tree-lined road that looks like it was designed for dramatic departures and uneasy journeys.
The beech trees arch overhead like a natural cathedral, creating a moody tunnel effect that’s especially striking when the light filters through the branches.
It’s one of those places that feels instantly familiar to Game of Thrones fans, but it also stands on its own as a beautiful stop for anyone who loves eerie, storybook scenery.
Because it’s popular, the atmosphere changes depending on when you arrive, so mornings and weekdays tend to feel more magical and less like a photo queue.
Pair it with nearby sights along the Causeway Coast for a full day of scenic exploring, and bring comfortable shoes for short walks nearby.
3. Castle Ward, County Down, Northern Ireland (Winterfell)
Just outside the buzz of bigger cities, this historic estate offers the kind of rugged, grounded setting that suited Winterfell so well.
The property blends old-world charm with wide-open grounds, which makes it easy to imagine the daily life of a northern stronghold—minus the looming threat of war.
Even if you’re not the type to tour every room, you can still get a lot out of the experience by focusing on the outdoor areas, where the landscape does much of the storytelling.
Many visitors treat it as a choose-your-own-adventure day, mixing a guided visit with casual wandering, and it’s an easy spot to combine with other Northern Ireland filming locations.
If you love the idea of being active, look for experiences on-site that lean into the show’s medieval vibe without feeling gimmicky.
4. Þingvellir National Park, Iceland (Beyond-the-Wall / Vale of Arryn areas)
Iceland’s dramatic terrain does not need special effects to look otherworldly, and Þingvellir is a perfect example of that raw, cinematic beauty.
The park’s volcanic scenery, wide-open vistas, and stark rock formations give you the same windswept feeling the show used for many wilderness moments, especially those that demanded a sense of isolation and danger.
What makes the visit even more compelling is that the landscape is constantly doing something—mist shifting across the water, clouds racing overhead, or sunlight breaking through at the last second.
Beyond the filming connection, Þingvellir is also historically significant and visually unforgettable, which means it rewards you even if you’re traveling with someone who isn’t a GoT superfan.
Dress in layers, expect quick weather changes, and plan extra time for stops because you’ll want more photos than you think.
5. Real Alcázar of Seville, Spain (The Water Gardens of Dorne)
Few places capture the fantasy of Dorne quite like Seville’s Real Alcázar, where ornate architecture and lush gardens create a setting that feels both regal and effortlessly romantic.
Intricate tilework, carved arches, and peaceful courtyards give the entire complex a sun-soaked elegance, and the greenery makes every walkway feel like a hidden escape.
The best way to experience it is slowly, because details are everywhere—from delicate patterns on walls to reflections shimmering in fountains and pools.
Even when it’s busy, the space has a calming quality that makes you want to linger, and the gardens are especially rewarding if you love quiet corners and shaded paths.
Booking tickets ahead of time is a smart move, particularly in peak season, since the Alcázar is popular far beyond Game of Thrones fans.
When you leave, Seville’s food scene makes the perfect encore.
6. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain (Dragonstone)
A long stone staircase curling toward a tiny hilltop chapel may not sound dramatic on paper, but this Basque Country landmark proves otherwise the moment you see it.
The islet rises sharply from the sea, connected to the mainland by a winding bridge that feels like an adventure before you even reach the steps.
While the show enhanced the location to create Dragonstone’s fortress-like look, the real-life setting still delivers that same “edge of the world” atmosphere, especially when waves crash below and the wind reminds you how wild the coastline can be.
The climb is doable for most people, but it’s steep enough that pacing yourself matters, and good shoes make a huge difference.
Check access rules before you go, since visitor numbers can be limited, and aim for clear weather if you want the most spectacular views.
7. Mdina Gate, Malta (King’s Landing entrance in Season 1)
Malta played a bigger role in Game of Thrones than many viewers realize, and Mdina’s iconic gate is one of the easiest places to visit if you love the early-season vibe.
The entrance feels grand without being over-the-top, and the surrounding streets have that timeless, sun-warmed look that fits perfectly with the show’s first impression of King’s Landing.
What makes this stop especially enjoyable is that it’s not just a single photo moment—you can explore Mdina itself, a quiet walled city with narrow lanes, scenic viewpoints, and a slower pace that’s a welcome contrast to busier tourist hubs.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander, stop for a drink, and let the atmosphere do the work.
Visit later in the afternoon for softer light and a more golden, cinematic feel, then stay for dinner nearby to round out the day.
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