Explore Game of Thrones Locations in Croatia

The breathtaking landscapes and ancient architecture of Croatia served as the perfect real-world canvas for the fantasy realm of Westeros in HBO’s Game of Thrones. From the fortified walls of Dubrovnik to the enchanting palaces of Split, Croatia became an integral part of the show’s identity. Here, we take you on an immersive journey through all the Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia, complete with historical context, travel tips, and behind-the-scenes insights.

Dubrovnik – The Capital of Westeros (King’s Landing)

Dubrovnik, the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Adriatic coast, is the most prominent Game of Thrones filming location in Croatia. It served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

Lovrijenac Fortress – The Red Keep

This imposing 11th-century fortress overlooking the sea is instantly recognizable as The Red Keep, the seat of the King of the Andals and the First Men. Its stone walls and commanding presence provided the perfect backdrop for pivotal scenes such as Joffrey’s name day tournament and Tyrion’s trial by combat.

Pile Gate – King’s Landing Entrance

The Pile Gate, the main entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town, appeared frequently as the entrance to King’s Landing. This is where the mob riot occurred when King Joffrey returned to the Red Keep in Season 2.

Jesuit Staircase – Walk of Atonement

Perhaps one of the most iconic scenes filmed in Dubrovnik, Cersei Lannister’s Walk of Atonement, took place on the Jesuit Staircase leading to St. Ignatius Church. These baroque steps are now a pilgrimage site for fans of the show.

Fort Bokar and City Walls – King’s Landing Defenses

Fort Bokar and the Old City Walls served as the defensive walls of King’s Landing. Here, Tyrion and Lord Varys famously discussed strategy while gazing out at Blackwater Bay.

Lokrum Island – Qarth, the Greatest City That Ever Was or Will Be

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island transformed into the wealthy trading city of Qarth, visited by Daenerys Targaryen in Season 2.

Benedictine Monastery – The House of the Undying

The mysterious Benedictine Monastery on Lokrum played a vital role in depicting the House of the Undying, where Daenerys experiences her prophetic visions.

Apart from its Game of Thrones fame, Lokrum is a lush nature reserve with roaming peacocks and botanical gardens, perfect for a day trip.

Trsteno Arboretum – The Gardens of King’s Landing

Located 20 km northwest of Dubrovnik, Trsteno Arboretum is the oldest arboretum in this part of the world and was the filming site for the palace gardens of King’s Landing.

This is where Olenna Tyrell and Margaery Tyrell often schemed, and where Sansa spent time under the watchful eye of Lady Olenna. Its serene gardens and panoramic sea views make it one of the most peaceful locations on the filming map.

Split – Meereen and Beyond

Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, was prominently featured in Seasons 4 and 5 of the series.

Diocletian’s Palace – Daenerys’ Throne Room in Meereen

The basement halls of Diocletian’s Palace served as Daenerys Targaryen’s throne room when she ruled Meereen. The blend of Roman architecture and shadowy corridors enhanced the show’s darker, political themes.

Papalićeva Street – Slave Rebellion

Scenes depicting the Meereenese slave rebellion were shot in Papalićeva Street, where the slaves nailed their former masters to crosses in Season 4.

Klis Fortress – The City of Meereen

Perched high above the city of Split, the Klis Fortress doubled as the entrance to Meereen, the largest of the Slaver Cities. This is where Daenerys crucifies the slave masters and begins her campaign to abolish slavery.

The view from the fortress, with the Adriatic in the background, is spectacular and worth the climb.

Šibenik – Braavos, the Free City Across the Narrow Sea

The medieval city of Šibenik made its Game of Thrones debut in Season 5 as parts of Braavos, where Arya Stark trained with the Faceless Men.

St. James Cathedral – The Iron Bank

The impressive St. James Cathedral stood in as the exterior of the Iron Bank of Braavos, one of the most powerful financial institutions in Westeros.

Walking through the winding alleys of Šibenik, you can feel the moodiness of Arya’s lonely journey through Braavos.

Trogir – Qarth’s Rich Interiors

Trogir, another UNESCO-listed town near Split, featured as the interior of Qarth’s noble houses. The cloisters of St. Dominic Monastery provided an elegant setting for several of Daenerys’s scenes.

This location was specifically used for indoor shots that required intricate stonework and medieval charm.

Žrnovnica – Missandei’s Bath Scene

A picturesque village near Split, Žrnovnica was used for the bathing scene of Missandei in a stream, accompanied by Grey Worm. The location is surrounded by dense forest and small waterfalls, providing a tranquil and romantic atmosphere.

image credit @adriatic.hr

Perun Quarry – Battle Scenes Outside Meereen

Located close to Split, the Perun Quarry was transformed into the exterior battlefield outside Meereen. This rugged, rocky terrain was ideal for large-scale battle scenes involving the Sons of the Harpy.

Travel Tips for Visiting Game of Thrones Locations in Croatia

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring.
• Guided Tours: Numerous Game of Thrones walking and boat tours operate in Dubrovnik, Split, and Šibenik. Many guides are extras from the show and offer unique insights.
• Photography: Arrive early or visit during golden hour for the best lighting and fewer tourists.
• Tickets & Access: Some locations like Klis Fortress and Diocletian’s Palace require entry fees. Others, such as Dubrovnik’s city walls, can be accessed with city passes.

Final word

Croatia’s unmatched blend of medieval architecture, coastal beauty, and historical depth made it a cinematic goldmine for Game of Thrones. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, these locations offer a deeper connection to the world of Westeros while immersing you in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

From King’s Landing to Meereen, Qarth to Braavos, Croatia brings the fantasy to life in a way no green screen ever could.