8 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Spain
While the Seven Kingdoms may be fictional, the locations where the Game of Thrones series was filmed are very real and offer a chance to immerse oneself in the magic of the show.
Spain, with its diverse and enchanting landscapes, served as a prominent backdrop for numerous iconic scenes throughout the series.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most remarkable Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain, showcasing their real-life wow factor and their role in bringing the fantasy world of Westeros to life.
Explore historic castles, medieval towns, and stunning landscapes as we delve into the magic of Game of Thrones set against the backdrop of Spain’s cultural and natural treasures.
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1. Girona
Girona, a picturesque city in Catalonia and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain played a significant role in bringing the fantasy world of Game of Thrones to life.
It served as the backdrop for several iconic scenes in the series.
Perhaps most notable is the Great Sept of Baelor, where a pivotal moment in the series took place. In reality, this grand setting is none other than the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona.
With its soaring arches and intricate stone details, the cathedral provides a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Fans of the show can visit this site to marvel at the real-life counterpart of the Great Sept.
Stand off Infront of Sept of Baelor; Game of Thrones Season 6, Episode 6
Another notable location within Girona the city’s charming streets and medieval architecture were transformed into the bustling streets of Braavos, where Arya Stark sought refuge from her enemies.
As you stroll through the winding alleys of Girona, you can easily recognize the same cobblestone paths Arya once traversed in her quest for survival.
Girona’s historical charm extends to the Oldtown in the Citadel, another notable filming location. The city’s medieval walls and narrow streets provided the perfect setting for the show’s portrayal of the bustling city of Oldtown.
Walking through this area, visitors can immerse themselves in the ambience of Game of Thrones and appreciate the rich history and architecture that made Girona an ideal choice for these captivating scenes.
To explore these iconic Game of Thrones filming locations in Girona, one can simply visit the city, and many guided tours are available to help fans retrace the steps of their favourite characters and relive the magic of the series.
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2. Seville
Seville, located in the beautiful region of Andalusia, Spain, offers a breathtaking glimpse into the world of Game of Thrones as it served as the primary filming location for the Water Gardens of Dorne, the opulent palace of House Martell.
Dorne, House Martell; Game of Thrones Season 5, Episode 2
The iconic Alcázar of Seville, a stunning medieval palace that has captivated travellers for centuries, took on new life as it transformed into the lavish residence of the Martell family.
The Alcázar’s intricate Moorish architecture, lush gardens, and exquisite courtyards perfectly captured the essence of the Water Gardens, a place of beauty, intrigue, and political manoeuvring in the show.
Visitors to Seville can explore the Alcázar and stroll through the same halls and gardens where characters like Prince Doran Martell and the Sand Snakes once plotted their machinations.
The palace’s ornate details and tranquil spaces make it easy to understand why it was chosen as the backdrop for this significant storyline.
To immerse yourself in the Game of Thrones experience in Seville, you can visit the Alcázar, which is open to the public.
While exploring this architectural masterpiece, you can relive the moments when the Water Gardens came to life on screen, all while appreciating the historical and cultural significance of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guided tours are also available, offering insights into the show’s filming process and the palace’s rich history.
Seville’s Alcázar is a true testament to the power of film to transform real-world locations into fantastical settings that continue to enchant visitors long after the series has concluded.
It’s truly one of the best Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain you should not miss.
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3. Osuna
Osuna, a charming town in Andalusia, Spain, had its moment in the spotlight when it became a key filming location for Game of Thrones.
Meereen fighting pits; Game of Thrones Season 5, Episode 9
In the show’s fifth season, the Plaza de Toros, a historic bullring in Osuna, was chosen as the setting for the epic fighting pit scenes in the city of Meereen.
This arena, originally built for traditional bullfighting, was transformed into a gladiatorial arena where Daenerys Targaryen witnessed intense battles and made crucial decisions regarding the fate of her adversaries.
The Plaza de Toros in Osuna is a stunning example of Spanish architectural heritage, featuring intricate detailing and a circular design that lent itself perfectly to the grandeur of the Meereen fighting pits.
Fans of the series and travellers alike can visit this iconic location to stand in the very spot where Daenerys, Tyrion Lannister, and other central characters navigated the complexities of the Meereen storyline.
To experience this Game of Thrones filming location in Osuna, tourists can explore the Plaza de Toros, which is often open to the public.
While there, one can imagine the thrilling battles that took place within its walls and appreciate the fusion of fantasy and reality that brought Meereen to life in this picturesque Spanish town.
Guided tours may also be available, providing additional insights into the filming process and the town’s cultural heritage.
4. Almería
Almería, a province in the captivating region of Andalusia, Spain, provided a unique and rugged landscape that played a crucial role in bringing the world of Game of Thrones to life.
The desert landscapes of Almería were skillfully transformed to represent the vast Dothraki Sea in several scenes, particularly in the early seasons of the series.
This barren, arid terrain served as the nomadic homeland of the fearsome Dothraki warriors, and its stark beauty created a visually striking contrast to the lush landscapes of other regions in Westeros and Essos.
Travellers and fans of the show can explore the captivating desert scenery of Almería by visiting the various locations used for Game of Thrones filming.
While the specific sites may vary, some of the most iconic desert scenes were filmed in the Tabernas Desert, which is often referred to as Europe’s only desert.
The Tabernas Desert offers a surreal and otherworldly experience, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of Daenerys Targaryen and her Dothraki horde.
To fully immerse oneself in the Dothraki experience in Almería, consider taking a guided tour that can lead you to the key filming locations within the province.
This provides an opportunity to appreciate both the natural beauty of Almería’s desert landscapes and the transformative power of film that turned this Spanish region into an essential part of the Game of Thrones universe.
5. Bardenas Reales
The Bardenas Reales, a remarkable natural wonder located in the region of Navarre, Spain, played a significant role in bringing the exotic and otherworldly Dothraki Sea to life in Game of Thrones.
This semi-desert region, characterized by its striking eroded formations, wide plateaus, and surreal landscapes, served as the backdrop for various scenes involving the Dothraki horde.
Its unique and barren terrain perfectly captured the essence of the nomadic Dothraki culture and added depth to the series’ portrayal of Essos.
Travellers and fans of the show can embark on a journey to explore the captivating landscapes of Bardenas Reales and see firsthand how this Spanish location was transformed into the vast Dothraki Sea.
The site offers hiking and photography opportunities, allowing visitors to traverse the same picturesque plateaus and rock formations that were featured prominently in the series.
As you stand amid the distinctive terrain of Bardenas Reales, you can easily imagine the iconic moments that unfolded on screen, including Daenerys Targaryen’s encounters with the Dothraki riders.
The mountainous regions also remind you of the frightening size of Drogon compared to the riders and the mountains.
Drogon and Dothraki; Game of Thrones Season 6, Episode 6
To make the most of your visit to Bardenas Reales, consider joining a guided tour or hiring a local guide who can provide insights into the area’s geological features and its role in Game of Thrones.
This remarkable landscape serves as a testament to the show’s ability to discover and showcase hidden gems around the world, turning them into unforgettable settings within the vast tapestry of Westeros and Essos.
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6. Gaztelugatxe
One of the best Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain is breathtaking Gaztelugatxe, nestled in the heart of the Basque Country in northern Spain.
It serves as the awe-inspiring backdrop for Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen, in Game of Thrones.
Gaztelugatxe is a small islet connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and a winding stone staircase that leads to a chapel at the summit.
This stunning and mystical setting perfectly embodied the dramatic and formidable essence of Dragonstone, where pivotal moments in the series unfolded.
To experience the magic of Dragonstone in Gaztelugatxe, visitors can embark on a journey to this picturesque location.
As you approach the islet, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the stone bridge and the intricate steps that ascend to the chapel at the top.
These steps are not only a testament to the area’s historical and architectural significance but also a familiar sight to Game of Thrones fans who remember Daenerys Targaryen’s arrival at Dragonstone.
Dragonstone; Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 1
While the climb to the chapel can be challenging, the panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Bay of Biscay from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
Visitors can appreciate the natural beauty of the Basque Country and the mystical aura of this location that was brought to life on screen.
Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the area’s history and its role in the series, making Gaztelugatxe a must-visit destination for both Game of Thrones enthusiasts and travellers seeking stunning natural landscapes.
7. Peñíscola
Peñíscola, a picturesque coastal town located in the province of Valencia, Spain, became an integral part of the Game of Thrones universe as it portrayed the city of Meereen.
Varys and Tyron in Meereen; Game of Thrones Season 6, Episode 1
The town’s historic old town, with its labyrinthine streets and charming architecture, was a fitting choice to depict the bustling streets of Meereen.
As you explore the narrow alleys of Peñíscola’s old town, you can easily imagine the vibrant and diverse culture of Meereen that Daenerys Targaryen sought to rule and transform.
However, the true star of Peñíscola’s role in Game of Thrones is the iconic Castle of Peñíscola. This medieval fortress served as the exterior of the Great Pyramid of Meereen, a central location in the series where key events took place.
The castle’s imposing presence perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mediterranean Sea contributed to the grandeur and authenticity of the Meereenese scenes.
Visitors to Peñíscola can immerse themselves in the world of Game of Thrones by exploring the old town and the Castle of Peñíscola.
The castle is open to the public and offers guided tours that provide insights into its historical significance and its transformation into the Great Pyramid.
Standing on the castle’s ramparts, you can take in panoramic views of the sea and appreciate the role this remarkable location played in the epic tale of Game of Thrones.
Peñíscola is a must-visit destination for fans of the show and travellers alike, offering a blend of history, culture, and fantasy that is truly enchanting.
This is one of the Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain that is a great day trip from Valencia.
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8. Castell de Santa Florentina
Castell de Santa Florentina, a captivating medieval castle located in the charming town of Canet de Mar near Barcelona, had its moment in the spotlight during the sixth season of Game of Thrones.
This historic castle was chosen to represent the ancestral home of House Tarly, adding depth and richness to the series’ portrayal of the noble families of Westeros.
The castle’s imposing architecture, featuring robust stone walls, crenellated towers, and an elegant courtyard, perfectly encapsulated the essence of a noble Westerosi house.
As visitors explore Castell de Santa Florentina, they can immerse themselves in the world of Game of Thrones by imagining the life and struggles of the Tarly family, including Samwell Tarly, a beloved character from the series.
House Tarly; Game of Thrones Season 6, Episode 6
To experience the Game of Thrones connection at Castell de Santa Florentina, visitors can take guided tours of the castle, which often include insights into its role in the show.
These tours allow you to explore the medieval chambers, courtyards, and battlements while learning about the rich history of the castle and its transformation into a pivotal location in the world of Westeros.
Castell de Santa Florentina offers a unique blend of historical heritage and fantasy, making it a must-visit destination for both fans of the show and travellers seeking a glimpse into the magic of Game of Thrones brought to life in a real-world setting.
