12 Real-Life Game of Thrones Filming Locations to Visit in Spain
Discover Spain's most stunning Game of Thrones filming locations, from ancient palaces to dramatic coastlines, and walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters.
For lovers of epic fantasy and dramatic landscapes, Spain is an immersive destination where the world of Westeros leaps from screen to reality. HBO’s Game of Thrones brought viewers across continents, but many of its most spectacular scenes—from fiery dragons to intricate palace intrigue—were filmed throughout Spain’s diverse regions. This guide covers twelve authentic locations where you can relive your favorite moments and marvel at the real-world settings behind the realms of Dorne, King’s Landing, Dragonstone, and more.
1. Alcázar of Seville – The Water Gardens of Dorne
The Royal Alcázar of Seville is a breathtaking blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Used as the opulent Water Gardens of Dorne, this UNESCO World Heritage Site brought House Martell’s sun-drenched court to life. Fans will recognize the lush gardens, intricately tiled verandas, and tranquil pools where Prince Doran met with Jaime and Bronn, and where Myrcella Baratheon lived her final days in Dorne.
Highlights:
- Palatial courtyards and bright, geometric mosaics
- Extensive Arabesque gardens with fountains and orange trees
- Filming location for Season 5 and 6 Dorne storyline scenes
Guided tours let you trace the same corridors as the cast, and the site remains open to visitors year-round.
2. Plaza de Toros, Osuna – The Fighting Pits of Meereen
The modest Andalusian town of Osuna is home to its storied Plaza de Toros (Bullring), seen in one of Game of Thrones’s most dramatic moments: Daenerys’s rescue by Drogon from the Fighting Pits of Meereen. The 1904 sandstone arena was transformed with CGI into a battle stage of epic proportions, but its essence remains, allowing visitors to relive Daenerys’s daring escape.
What to Expect:
- Walk the steps where gladiatorial showdowns were staged
- Local museum exhibits commemorating the series’ impact
- A quiet detour from Spain’s busier cities offering authentic Andalusian ambiance
3. Girona – Braavos, King’s Landing, and Oldtown
Girona’s medieval lanes, cathedrals, and ancient walls played triple duty as locations across Essos and Westeros: Braavos (where Arya trained with the Faceless Men), King’s Landing (site of the Great Sept of Baelor), and Oldtown (the Citadel’s exterior). Walking through Girona’s winding alleys, you’ll recognize pivotal scenes of Arya’s chases, Cersei’s Walk of Atonement, and Sam’s introduction to scholarly life.
Must-See Spots:
- Girona Cathedral: Doubled as the imposing steps of the Great Sept of Baelor
- Jewish Quarter: Served as the maze-like streets of Braavos
- Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants: The Citadel’s exterior in Oldtown
- Arab Baths: Scene of Arya’s escape from the Waif
Each site within Girona is well-marked, making it a top pilgrimage for fans and lovers of history alike.
4. Roman Bridge of Córdoba – The Long Bridge of Volantis
The iconic Roman Bridge of Córdoba, stretching majestically across the Guadalquivir River, was digitally extended to portray the bustling Long Bridge of Volantis. In the series, Tyrion and Varys traverse its length teeming with market stalls and brothels.
Key details:
- One of Spain’s oldest bridges, originally built in the 1st century BC
- Scenes appeared in Season 5 with CGI enhancements for the fantasy setting
- Located near the historic Mezquita-Catedral, a renowned landmark itself
5. Castle of Zafra, Guadalajara – The Tower of Joy
The remote Castle of Zafra rises from the rocky plains of Guadalajara and was immortalized on screen as the Tower of Joy, the location of Bran’s crucial vision revealing Jon Snow’s lineage. This 12th-century fortress stands atop a prominent rock formation, providing dramatic backdrops ideal for storytelling.
Visitor tips:
- Accessible for day trips; plan for hiking or off-road travel
- Spectacular views ideal for photography
- An uncrowded destination for those seeking solitude
6. Castilla de Almodóvar del Río – Highgarden
Castilla de Almodóvar del Río near Córdoba was the regal setting for Highgarden, home to House Tyrell. Surrounded by lush meadows, this hilltop fortress became the scene of Ser Jaime’s confrontation with Olenna Tyrell in Season 7. Its imposing towers and exquisite halls evoke the grandeur fitting the seat of the Tyrells.
Highlights:
- Perfectly preserved medieval architecture with panoramic grounds
- Film tours highlighting the castle’s transformation for the series
- Historical exhibitions inside the castle detailing its real and fictional roles
7. The Alcazaba of Almería – House Martell’s Fortress
The formidable Alcazaba of Almería stood in for the outer walls of House Martell’s home. This sprawling hilltop fortress, a masterpiece of Islamic military architecture, dominates the cityscape and provided the backdrop for several scenes set in Dorne.
Traveler insights:
- Largest Moorish fortress in Spain, predating even the Alhambra
- Panoramic city and sea views from the bastions
- Photos from the ramparts reveal the dramatic ambiance captured on the show
8. Torre de Mesa Roldán, Almería – The Meereen Cliffs
This isolated coastal watchtower in Almería was used as part of the pyramids of Meereen. The rugged landscapes and panoramic sea views gave life to the scenes showing Meereen’s imposing status as one of Slaver’s Bay’s greatest cities.
- Accessible via the Cabo de Gata nature reserve trails
- Reconstruct landscapes seen in Daenerys’s conquest
9. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country – Dragonstone
Perhaps the most unforgettable landscape is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet connected to the mainland by a zigzagging footbridge. It brought Dragonstone, Daenerys’s ancestral seat, to life in Season 7. The long stone staircase curving above the waves is instantly recognizable from Daenerys’s first steps as she returns to her family’s stronghold.
- Climb the 241 steps to the chapel for panoramic views of the Basque coast
- Fans can reenact the iconic arrival of the Mother of Dragons
- Be prepared for strong winds and breathtaking seascapes
10. Itzurun Beach, Zumaia – Dragonstone’s Shores
The windswept Itzurun Beach in Zumaia provided the otherworldly coastal cliffs of Dragonstone. Its natural rock formations made a perfect natural backdrop as Daenerys and Jon Snow discuss strategy on these dramatic sands throughout Season 7.
- Photogenic diagonal cliffs unique to the Basque coastline
- A top spot for geology enthusiasts and film fans alike
- Location for iconic beach landings and key dialogue scenes
11. Amphitheatre of Italica, Santiponce – The Dragonpit of King’s Landing
The ancient Roman Amphitheatre of Italica near Seville is one of Spain’s archeological treasures. In the Season 7 finale, it became the Dragonpit where Jon, Daenerys, and Cersei held tense negotiations surrounded by centuries-old stonework. Visitors can explore the same ruins where dragons once gathered—at least, on screen!
- Massive ruins with informative signage about both history and filming
- Located near Seville, making it easily combined with other Andalusian sites
- Amphitheatre dates to 117 AD; once seated 25,000 spectators
12. Cáceres and Trujillo – King’s Landing and Lannister Strongholds
The ancient towns of Cáceres and Trujillo in Extremadura provided the setting for significant scenes in both King’s Landing and among the Lannisters’ realm. With their labyrinthine stone streets, looming towers, and fortified plazas, these cities offer an authentic medieval atmosphere replicated in key episodes of the later seasons.
- Cáceres Old Town: UNESCO-listed, doubled as King’s Landing during Euron’s attack on the city
- Trujillo Castle: Served as the exterior for some Red Keep and Casterly Rock scenes
- Both towns remain atmospheric filming locations with guided tours available
Map of Filming Locations
To assist your journey across Westeros-in-Spain, here is a summary table:
| Location | Region | Game of Thrones Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Alcázar of Seville | Andalusia | Water Gardens of Dorne |
| Plaza de Toros, Osuna | Andalusia | Fighting Pits of Meereen |
| Girona | Catalonia | Braavos, King’s Landing, Oldtown |
| Roman Bridge of Córdoba | Andalusia | Long Bridge of Volantis |
| Castle of Zafra | Guadalajara | Tower of Joy |
| Castilla de Almodóvar del Río | Andalusia | Highgarden |
| Alcazaba of Almería | Andalusia | House Martell’s Fortress |
| San Juan de Gaztelugatxe | Basque Country | Dragonstone |
| Itzurun Beach, Zumaia | Basque Country | Dragonstone’s Shores |
| Roman Amphitheatre of Italica | Andalusia | Dragonpit |
| Cáceres and Trujillo | Extremadura | King’s Landing, Casterly Rock |
Top Tips for Visiting Game of Thrones Locations in Spain
- Plan ahead: Many sites are part of historic cities or remote rural locations—check seasonal hours and accessibility.
- Join guided tours: Several cities (like Seville and Girona) offer specialized Game of Thrones tours with insider anecdotes.
- Be respectful: Remember that these are active heritage sites and often hold cultural or religious importance.
- Combine destinations: Major locations in Andalusia (Seville, Córdoba, Osuna, Italica) can be included in a multi-day itinerary.
- Travel off-peak: Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and fewest crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which Spanish city featured most prominently as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones?
A: Girona served as the most recognizable stand-in for King’s Landing in Season 6, with key scenes filmed at Girona Cathedral’s steps and the city’s old quarter.
Q: Can I visit all these filming locations independently?
A: Yes, most locations are open to the public. However, some (like castles or amphitheatres) may require tickets or have guided tours for a richer experience.
Q: Are the sites suitable for non-fans of the show?
A: Absolutely. The sites chosen by HBO were selected for their beauty and historical value, making them remarkable for any traveler, not just Game of Thrones enthusiasts.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer provides longer days for sightseeing but can be hot, especially in southern Spain.
Conclusion
Spain’s diverse landscape and wealth of historic sites make it a dream destination for Game of Thrones fans and history lovers. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of Arya Stark through the winding streets of Girona or standing on the windswept cliff of Dragonstone, these real-life settings deliver the magic and drama of Westeros with every step. Add these spots to your next Spanish adventure and relive the epic saga in unforgettable settings.
