Dubrovnik, the Game of Thrones kingdom in Croatia

In real life, Dubrovnik symbolizes King's Landing, where the Iron Throne is guarded by the men of Croatia, not by the King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men. While it may not have dragons soaring above its walls, ancient Ragusa allows us to immerse ourselves in the world of Game of Thrones .

You are likely reading the previous and following lines while listening to 'Game of Thrones Theme' in your mind, the musical intro produced by Ramin Djawadi for the prestigious HBO series.

Located in the southernmost part of Croatia, Dubrovnik is the administrative and economic heart of Dubrovnik-Neretva County. With a population of 41,562 according to the 2021 census, the city has positioned itself as the top destination for foreign tourists in Croatia, according to data from April 2023, largely thanks to Game of Thrones.

The "Pearl of the Adriatic," built on a peninsula on the Dalmatian coast, has been recognized for its importance as a Mediterranean maritime power since the 13th century. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1979 , and this recognition was extended in 1994.

Dubrovnik has not only been a filming location for Game of Thrones; movies like Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Robin Hood have also been part of its cinematic history . However, it is the acclaimed series that has mobilized fans from all over the world, drawing them to this city to explore the lands of the Seven Kingdoms.

Where is the Iron Throne?

For true Game of Thrones fans, the nearby island of Lokrum is home to a replica of the coveted Iron Throne . If you don't have time to go all the way there, some souvenir shops in Dubrovnik's Old Town offer other replicas, and some tours will even let you take a free photo.

The entrance to this kingdom is Pile Gate , the main access to the Old City . It has been the backdrop for memorable scenes from the series, such as Jaime Lannister's entrance and return with Brienne, and the protests against King Joffrey.

Even from above, Dubrovnik's first impression is made by its majestic walls . Exploring them from within is a must, even if you haven't seen a single episode of Game of Thrones. Fans will immediately picture Tyrion Lannister gazing at the horizon. Furthermore, within the walls stands the Minceta Tower , a silent witness to Daenerys's dragon rides.

What else to see in Dubrovnik

One of the must-see stops is the Jesuit Stairs , which witnessed Cersei Lannister's dramatic walk in the last episode of the fifth season, facing the sentence of condemnation for adultery while the people shouted "SHAME" and threw stones at her.

Cersei's tour included a visit to the Old City's main street, Stradum , with cafes and restaurants serving local, international, and even themed dishes.

Gradak Park , where the Purple Wedding banquet was filmed; Fort Lovrijenac , the Red Keep from the series; and the Dubrovnik Ethnographic Museum , the business run by Lord Petyr Baelish, where Tyrion Lannister used to frequent, are some of the other Game of Thrones locations you can visit in Dubrovnik.

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Tour of the palaces

The Rector's Palace , now a museum, was the seat of the governing body during the Republic of Dubrovnik. In Game of Thrones, it served as the setting for scenes set in the city of Qarth, when Daenerys was searching for allies. Parts of Qarth were also filmed at the Dominican Palace , a haven of peace amidst the bustling streets of Dubrovnik.

Set apart from the Old City, Belvedere Palace , though now abandoned, was the ideal location for the battle between Oberyn Martell and The Mountain. Escape the crowds by taking a ferry to Lokrum Island, where additional scenes from the series were filmed and where you'll find the Iron Throne.

Dubrovnik is not only a fascinating tourist destination thanks to its rich history and architecture, but it also offers Game of Thrones fans the chance to walk the sets that brought this epic television series to life. King's Landing awaits you .

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