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Writer's pictureVinayak Pandey

Exploring Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Croatia: Best Times to Visit Beyond the Peak Season

The best time to visit Croatia in general is between July and August, as the weather is bright and sunny - ideal for enjoying the coastal locations. For visiting the Game of Thrones sites specifically:

  • Dubrovnik (King's Landing) - The search results recommend visiting the key locations like Fort Lovrijenac, the city walls, and Trsteno Arboretum. The advice is to go earlier in the day, before the locations get too crowded with tours later in the afternoon.

  • Split (Meereen) - The main filming location here is Diocletian's Palace, which is a major tourist attraction year-round. There doesn't seem to be a specific best time mentioned, but going early in the day is likely best to avoid crowds.

  • Other locations like Klis Fortress and Lokrum Island are also highlighted as worth visiting for Game of Thrones fans. These can be visited as part of a Croatia cruise or private yacht tour.

The peak summer months of July and August seem to be the best time overall to visit the Croatian Game of Thrones filming sites, with the advice to go early in the day to beat the crowds at the most popular locations in Dubrovnik and Split.


Can you visit the actual sets used in Game of Thrones in Croatia


Dubrovnik

1. Fort Lovrijenac (Red Keep):

  • Situated just outside Dubrovnik's city walls, this imposing fortress served as the Red Keep in King's Landing. It's a prominent location for scenes involving the Lannisters and other key characters.

2. Minceta Tower (House of the Undying):

  • This medieval tower within Dubrovnik's city walls was transformed into the mysterious House of the Undying, where Daenerys Targaryen experiences prophetic visions.

3. Trsteno Arboretum (King's Landing Palace Gardens):

  • About 20 minutes from Dubrovnik, this lush garden with its ancient trees and serene atmosphere was used as the palace gardens of King's Landing, where many significant conversations and events took place.

4. Jesuit Staircase ("Walk of Shame" Scene):

  • Located in Dubrovnik's old town, this Baroque staircase was the backdrop for Cersei Lannister's memorable walk of shame in the series.



Split

1. Diocletian's Palace (Daenerys' Throne Room and Dragon's Chamber):

  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, Diocletian's Palace was used extensively in depicting the city of Meereen, including Daenerys' throne room and the underground chambers where her dragons were kept.

Game of Thrones Locations in Croatia

2. Klis Fortress (City of Meereen):

  • Perched on a rocky cliff near Split, Klis Fortress stood in as the exterior of the city of Meereen, showcasing its rugged, medieval appearance.


Other Locations

1. Lokrum Island (City of Qarth):

  • A short boat ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island's botanical gardens and ancient monastery were transformed into the city of Qarth, known for its exoticism and intrigue.

2. Šibenik (Braavos):

  • The historic town of Šibenik, with its Renaissance architecture and coastal charm, portrayed the city of Braavos, home to the Iron Bank and Arya Stark's adventures.

3. Krka National Park (Westeros Wilds):

  • Known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes, Krka National Park provided the backdrop for the wild, untamed regions of inner Westeros.


Tourist Experience

Visiting these locations allows fans to immerse themselves in the world of Game of Thrones, walking in the footsteps of their favorite characters and seeing firsthand where iconic scenes were filmed. Guided tours are available in most locations, offering insights into filming details, anecdotes from the set, and the rich history of each site. Whether exploring ancient fortresses, botanical gardens, or historic cities, Croatia's Game of Thrones locations provide a blend of fantasy and reality that captivates visitors from around the world.


Are there any off-peak seasons that are still pleasant for visiting these locations

there are a few off-peak seasons that can still be pleasant for visiting the Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia:


Spring (April-May)

  • The search results mention that spring, starting in April, can be pleasantly warm and a bit more quiet compared to the peak summer months.

  • Temperatures are mild, with average highs around 60-70°F (15-21°C).

  • This could be a good time to visit the locations in Dubrovnik and Split before the peak tourist crowds arrive.


Fall (September-October)

  • The fall months are also highlighted as a good time to visit, with warm and sunny weather.

  • Temperatures are still comfortable, with average highs around 70-75°F (21-24°C).

  • The crowds will have thinned out after the summer peak, making it easier to explore the sites.


Winter (December-February)

  • While the winters in Croatia can get chilly, with temperatures occasionally dipping below freezing, the search results indicate the winters are still relatively mild compared to other European destinations.

  • This could be an interesting time to visit, with fewer tourists and a different atmosphere around the filming locations.

  • However, some outdoor sites and activities may be limited or closed during the winter months.


So, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall seem to offer the best balance - pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and still the ability to fully experience the Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia. But the milder winters could also be an option for the more adventurous traveler.

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