For “Game of Thrones” fans, Croatia isn’t just a Mediterranean paradise; it is the physical manifestation of the Seven Kingdoms. In 2026, “Set-Jetting”—traveling to locations seen in film and TV—is the world’s fastest-growing travel trend, and Croatia remains its undisputed capital.
Whether you’re a die-hard Stark supporter or a secret Lannister, this guide will take you through the stone gates and ancient fortresses that brought Westeros to life.
Set-Jetting Guide: The Top 7 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Croatia
1. Fort Lovrijenac (The Red Keep) – Dubrovnik
Perched on a 37-meter-high cliff just outside Dubrovnik’s western walls, Fort Lovrijenac is the definitive Red Keep. This is where King Joffrey held his name-day tournament and where the Lannisters plotted their defenses during the Battle of the Blackwater.
- Pro-Tip: If you have a ticket for the Dubrovnik City Walls, entry to Lovrijenac is included. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the “shores of King’s Landing.”
- Viral Photo Spot: Stand on the terrace overlooking the bay to recreate the scene where Littlefinger told Cersei, “Knowledge is power,” only for her to reply, “Power is power.”
2. The Jesuit Staircase (The Walk of Shame) – Dubrovnik
Perhaps the most infamous location in TV history, these Baroque stairs lead up to the Church of St. Ignatius. In Season 5, they served as the starting point for Cersei Lannister’s grueling “Walk of Atonement.”
- How to Visit: Head to Gundulić Square in the Old Town.
- 2026 Update: While local shops used to shout “Shame!” at tourists, the area is now a protected heritage site. Respect the locals by enjoying the architecture quietly—and maybe grab a coffee at the bottom of the stairs instead.
3. Diocletian’s Palace Substructures (The Dragon Dungeon) – Split
Travel north to Split to find the dark, echoing cellars of a Roman Emperor’s palace. In the show, these were the Meereenese dungeons where Daenerys Targaryen kept Rhaegal and Viserion chained.
- Step-by-Step: Enter through the Brass Gate on the Riva (waterfront). The central hall is free to walk through, but pay the small entrance fee for the side chambers to see where the dragons were actually filmed.
- Hidden Detail: Look for the narrow Papalićeva Street nearby, where the “Kill the Masters” slave rebellion scenes were shot.
4. Klis Fortress (The City of Meereen) – Klis
Located 20 minutes outside of Split, this medieval fortress clings to a mountain ridge. It doubled as the exterior of Meereen, where Daenerys famously marched to free the slaves and crucify the Great Masters.
- Why Visit Today: Unlike the crowded streets of Dubrovnik, Klis offers a rugged, wind-swept experience.
- Travel Hack: Take the local #22 bus from Split for a few Euros. The view from the top—stretching across the Adriatic islands—is arguably the best in Croatia.
5. Trsteno Arboretum (The Red Keep Gardens) – Trsteno
A short 20-minute drive from Dubrovnik lies the oldest arboretum in this part of the world. Its lush pergolas and fountain served as the Palace Gardens in King’s Landing.
- The Scene: This is where Lady Olenna Tyrell (The Queen of Thorns) and Sansa Stark shared lemon cakes and whispered secrets.
- Must-See: The Neptune Fountain and the two 500-year-old plane trees at the entrance.
6. Lokrum Island (The City of Qarth) – Dubrovnik
A 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port takes you to Lokrum, a lush island inhabited by peacocks and rabbits. The Benedictine Monastery here was transformed into the exotic city of Qarth.
- The Iron Throne: Lokrum is home to the official HBO Iron Throne. It’s located in a small museum inside the monastery, and yes—you can sit on it for free!
- Warning: According to local legend, the island is cursed. It’s perfectly safe to visit by day, but no one is allowed to stay overnight.
7. St. Dominika Street (The Streets of King’s Landing) – Dubrovnik
This curved, limestone-paved street appeared in almost every season. It’s where the Gold Cloaks patrolled and where the markets of King’s Landing bustled with life.
- Filming Secret: Because the stone walls were too “clean” for a medieval slum, the production crew had to bring in tons of dirt and hay to make it look authentically grimy.
- Activity: Walk from the Dominican Monastery down toward the Ploče Gate to feel like you’re truly in the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.
How to Plan Your 2026 “Set-Jetting” Itinerary
| Destination | Major GoT Role | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Dubrovnik | King’s Landing | Early Morning (before 8 AM) |
| Split | Meereen / Braavos | Late Afternoon |
| Klis | Meereen Gates | Sunset |
| Lokrum | Qarth / Iron Throne | Mid-day Ferry |
Final Tips for the Ultimate Fan Experience
Download an Offline Map: Many of these alleys (especially in Split) are a maze. Look for “GoT Self-Guided” pins on Google Maps.
The “Dubrovnik Pass”: In 2026, this is a must-buy. It covers the City Walls, Lovrijenac, and several museums for one price, saving you roughly 30%.
Wear Grip Shoes: The limestone in Dubrovnik and Split has been polished by millions of feet over centuries. It is incredibly slippery, even when dry!
