Winter is here because Game of Thrones is finally back!
And so begins the time when social media is flooded with articles and memes about Game of Thrones. Most people are excited to see who will finally sit on the Iron Throne. Who will survive the Battle of Winterfell or the war against the White Walkers? We will find out in five weeks.
As a huge fan of Game of Thrones, this April is a big moment for me, especially after waiting for two years. While waiting for the last season to air, apart from rewatching seasons 1-7 to the point of boredom, traveling to Game of Thrones filming locations became my choice. It was a way to cure my longing and satisfy my curiosity about the beautiful and medieval-like places shown in the series.
Among Northern Ireland, Iceland, Malta, Spain, and Morocco, I chose Croatia. This is where some of the most iconic scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed. The old city of Dubrovnik was used as the setting for King’s Landing, the capital of the fictional continent of Westeros. Since my Europe trip this time started from Athens, Greece, which is also in Southeastern Europe, I planned a route through several former Yugoslavian countries, including a stop in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
My journey started from Athens -> Thessaloniki -> Skopje -> Kotor, Montenegro. I then bought a bus ticket to Dubrovnik from Herceg Novi bus station in Montenegro. For €14 or Rp. 222,600, I took a 1.5-hour bus ride to Dubrovnik, also known as King’s Landing. By noon, I was ready to explore Dubrovnik.
History of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is famous as a citadel or fortified city dating back to the medieval period. Despite being hundreds of years old, the old town of Dubrovnik is very well-preserved, earning its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The combination of the city’s glorious history, stunning architecture, and seaside views has made Dubrovnik one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Balkans and one of the trendiest in Europe. Many travelers visit not only to see the old city but also to enjoy the sunny weather and relax by the Adriatic Sea. Like other Mediterranean regions, Dubrovnik enjoys a warm and pleasant climate, and even in autumn, I didn’t need to wear heavy clothing.
The seaside city of Dubrovnik has a rich history dating back to the 7th century when it was first established. Its strategic location on the Adriatic made it a powerful and prosperous trade city, once considered the main rival of Venice. In the medieval period, Dubrovnik was known as the Republic of Ragusa, an independent republic that thrived for 450 years until the early 19th century. The city’s expertise in trade and diplomacy helped it remain independent despite being surrounded by powerful empires like the Roman, Ottoman, and Venetian Empires. Dubrovnik never fell.
The news of the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Constantinople in 1453 alarmed the people of Ragusa. To defend their freedom, they built the city walls and towers. These walls successfully repelled attacks from Venice, while their diplomatic skills made Dubrovnik an ally of the Ottoman Empire, securing their protection rather than being conquered like many other cities. The city walls that once withstood enemy forces still stand today, becoming the top tourist attraction in this historic city.
Dubrovnik Card
Although the old city of Dubrovnik is relatively small, there are many places to visit, both for exploring Game of Thrones filming locations and to appreciate Dubrovnik’s historical legacy. Before my trip, I purchased a 1-day Dubrovnik Card for 200 Kuna (Rp. 441,300). The Dubrovnik Card is a tourist discount card issued by the city government, granting access to several attractions including the City Walls, the Franciscan Monastery, Marin Drzic House, Rector’s Palace, art galleries, and various museums within the old city. It also provides entry to Fort Lovrijenac, located across from the old city. There are three Dubrovnik Card options: 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day. Before climbing the City Walls, the card must be activated at the tourist information center outside the city gates.
Things to See & Do in Dubrovnik
1. City Walls
The robust walls, stretching 1,940 meters and rising to 25 meters in some places, have protected Dubrovnik from all sides since the 15th century. The walls successfully defended the city from enemy attacks and even an earthquake in 1667. This is the main attraction in the old city. It’s best to visit early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. The City Walls are a must-see for their historical significance and impressive architecture.
The walls are lined with five towers, many of which have become iconic after appearing in Game of Thrones. The Minceta Tower on the northwest side offers unforgettable views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. This is the highest point of the City Walls. The Bokar Fort, another iconic tower, was featured in Game of Thrones when Tyrion Lannister and Lord Varys planned the defense of King’s Landing. The fort’s real purpose was to protect the city gates.
2. Join the Game of Thrones Tour
This tour is perfect for Game of Thrones fans exploring Dubrovnik. Guided by a Dubrovnik local who worked as an extra in the show, the tour takes about 1.5 hours and visits key filming locations within and outside the old city. Non-fans can also join historical walking tours.
3. Franciscan Monastery
This monastery now functions as a museum and houses Europe’s third-oldest pharmacy, which is still open today. The monastery is close to the main entrance of the old city and entry is free with the Dubrovnik Card.
4. Rector’s Palace
Once the residence of the city’s ruler, the Rector’s Palace is now a museum. This beautiful 15th-century palace is also a Game of Thrones filming location.
5. Lokrum Island
A short 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is another Game of Thrones filming site, serving as the backdrop for the city of Qarth.
6. Chill Out on the Beach
Dubrovnik’s beaches are stunning. I visited Banje Beach near Ploce Gate, though it has pebbles instead of soft sand, the views of the sea are extraordinary. I also spent time at the quieter Vbrica Beach, near my Airbnb.
This trip to Dubrovnik made my European adventure even more memorable, offering the perfect blend of Game of Thrones magic and the rich history of the old city.