Dubrovnik, a medieval walled city located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, has become a household name in recent years, thanks in large part to its starring role in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. The show's production team chose Dubrovnik as the primary filming location for King's Landing, the capital city of the Seven Kingdoms, and the city's ancient walls, red-tiled roofs, and stunning natural surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for the show's epic battles, intrigue, and drama. For fans of the series, a Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour is a must-do experience, offering a unique opportunity to explore the city's historic streets and landmarks while reliving the magic of the show.
The Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour typically begins at the old city's main entrance, Pile Gate, where visitors can walk along the ancient city walls and take in the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. From there, the tour makes its way through the narrow streets of the old town, stopping at iconic locations such as the Rector's Palace, which served as the exterior of the Red Keep, and the Church of St. Nicholas, which was used as the exterior of the Sept of Baelor. Along the way, guides provide interesting anecdotes and behind-the-scenes information about the show's production, as well as historical context about the city and its landmarks.
Key Points
- The Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour explores the city's historic streets and landmarks, showcasing the filming locations used in the show.
- The tour includes stops at iconic locations such as the Rector's Palace, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the old city walls.
- Guides provide behind-the-scenes information about the show's production, as well as historical context about the city and its landmarks.
- The tour offers a unique opportunity for fans to relive the magic of the show and experience the beauty of Dubrovnik.
- Visitors can expect to learn about the history and culture of Dubrovnik, as well as the impact of the show on the city and its people.
The History of Dubrovnik and Game of Thrones
The connection between Dubrovnik and Game of Thrones began in 2011, when the show’s production team first visited the city to scout for potential filming locations. The team was blown away by the city’s stunning natural beauty, rich history, and well-preserved medieval architecture, and soon decided to make Dubrovnik the primary filming location for King’s Landing. Over the next several years, the show’s cast and crew returned to Dubrovnik multiple times, filming scenes at various locations throughout the city, including the old city walls, the Rector’s Palace, and the island of Lokrum.
Today, the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions, drawing fans from all over the world. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are both passionate about the show and experts on the city's history and culture. As visitors make their way through the city, they are treated to a wealth of information about the show's production, including behind-the-scenes stories, anecdotes, and trivia. At the same time, the tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Dubrovnik, and to experience the beauty and charm of this ancient city.
Exploring the Filming Locations
One of the highlights of the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour is the opportunity to explore the show’s filming locations up close. Visitors can walk along the old city walls, which were used as the exterior of King’s Landing’s walls, and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. They can also visit the Rector’s Palace, which served as the exterior of the Red Keep, and see the iconic Iron Throne, which was used in several scenes throughout the series. Other filming locations on the tour include the Church of St. Nicholas, which was used as the exterior of the Sept of Baelor, and the island of Lokrum, which was used as the location for Qarth, the city of the warlocks.
| Filming Location | Game of Thrones Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Rector's Palace | Red Keep |
| Church of St. Nicholas | Sept of Baelor |
| Old City Walls | King's Landing Walls |
| Island of Lokrum | Qarth |
The Impact of Game of Thrones on Dubrovnik
The impact of Game of Thrones on Dubrovnik has been significant, with the show’s success bringing a surge of new tourists to the city. According to estimates, the show has generated over $100 million in revenue for the city, with many local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, benefiting from the increased tourism. At the same time, the show has helped to raise awareness about Dubrovnik and its rich cultural heritage, introducing the city to a new generation of travelers and fans.
However, the increased tourism has also brought its own set of challenges, including overcrowding, strain on local infrastructure, and concerns about the city's cultural and historical integrity. In response, the city has implemented various measures to manage the tourism industry, including limiting the number of visitors to the old town, introducing new regulations for tour operators, and investing in infrastructure and conservation projects.
Perspective on Sustainable Tourism
As the city continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by Game of Thrones, it is clear that sustainable tourism practices will be essential to preserving the city’s cultural and historical heritage. This includes implementing measures to reduce overcrowding, promoting responsible tourism practices, and supporting local businesses and initiatives that prioritize the city’s long-term sustainability. By working together, the city, tour operators, and visitors can help to ensure that Dubrovnik remains a vibrant and thriving cultural destination for generations to come.
What is the best time to visit Dubrovnik for a Game of Thrones tour?
+The best time to visit Dubrovnik for a Game of Thrones tour is during the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
How long does the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour typically last?
+The Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours, depending on the tour operator and the specific itinerary.
What should I wear on the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour?
+It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as sun protection and a hat, as the tour involves walking and outdoor activities.
In conclusion, the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour is a must-do experience for fans of the show, offering a unique opportunity to explore the city’s historic streets and landmarks while reliving the magic of the series. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and well-preserved medieval architecture, Dubrovnik is a city that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you are a die-hard Game of Thrones fan or simply looking to experience the beauty and charm of this ancient city, the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones tour is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
