Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones City Walking Tour

Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones City Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, or just someone curious about Dubrovnik’s role as King’s Landing, this tour offers a lively and insightful way to explore the city’s most famous filming locations. For around $28, you get a two-hour guided walk that takes you past iconic sites like the Red Keep, Iron Throne, and the Walk of Shame route, all with a knowledgeable local guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales. It’s a popular experience, with over 4,300 reviews rating it 4.8 out of 5, which speaks to its consistent appeal.

What I especially appreciate about this tour is the variety it packs into a short time. Not only do you get to see the filming locations, but you also gain some context about Dubrovnik’s historical walls and fortresses. The guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and insider knowledge, and many reviews mention guides like Josef, Jelena, and Katarina by name — a sign of engaging, personal storytelling. Plus, the photo opportunity on the replica Iron Throne makes it a memorable souvenir.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at just two hours, this tour is brisk. If you’re after a deep dive into Dubrovnik’s broader history or want to explore the city at a more relaxed pace, you might find it a bit brief. Also, entry to the Lovrijenac Fortress is extra (about 15 EUR), which might surprise some travelers expecting all sites to be included. Still, considering the price, it’s a very good value, especially with the amount of behind-the-scenes stories you’re likely to hear.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Knowledgeable guides like Josef and Jelena bring behind-the-scenes filming stories and local insights.
• Excellent value at $28, with many reviews highlighting it as worth every penny.
• Iconic filming locations such as the Red Keep, Iron Throne, and Walk of Shame route are well highlighted.
• Photo opportunities include a fun chance to sit on the replica Iron Throne.
• Short but packed two-hour format, perfect for those wanting a quick but thorough highlight tour.
• Extra costs apply if you want to visit Lovrijenac Fortress — plan accordingly.

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Game of Thrones Filming Locations

The tour begins at the Large Onofrio’s Fountain, where your guide will likely be holding a red umbrella for easy spotting. From there, you’ll stroll through the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, passing the historic walls and the Pile Gate. This is where some of the most dramatic scenes from the series took place — the riot scene at King Joffrey’s coronation and Cersei’s Walk of Shame.

Guides tend to be quite animated. Many reviews mention guides like Nino or Edi – some former extras or stand-ins for the show – providing unique behind-the-scenes anecdotes. For example, one review states, “Edi gave us fascinating insights and joked his way through the tour,” which underscores how guides make the experience engaging. They also point out the importance of the city’s walls and fortresses, which doubled as Westeros locations, giving you a new appreciation for Dubrovnik’s historical defenses.

The visit to Lovrijenac Fortress is a highlight, as it’s where many scenes for the Red Keep were shot. Entry isn’t included, but if you have a Dubrovnik Pass or a Walls ticket from the same day, you might get in free — a bonus for history enthusiasts. The fortress offers spectacular views over the city and the sea, adding a scenic element to your series walk.

The tour culminates at Orlando’s Column and the Pile Gate, where you can take selfies with the Iron Throne replica and soak in the lively atmosphere. Many reviewers mention how fun it is to stand where so many pivotal scenes unfolded, with one noting, “Kat was the best guide, giving us all the fun tidbits about GoT filming.”

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour’s itinerary is designed to hit all the main Game of Thrones filming sites in Dubrovnik. Starting from the large fountain, your guide will lead you through the Old Town’s narrow alleys, pointing out the key locations where fan-favorite scenes were shot. Expect to see the walls of Dubrovnik, which served as the city’s formidable defenses, and the Pile Gate, where Joffrey’s riot scene took place.

The guide will share stories about how the city’s architecture and history contributed to its role as King’s Landing, making it clear that the filming locations are also steeped in centuries of local history. The Walk of Shame, a particularly memorable scene for many fans, is still a powerful moment to see in person. Standing there, it’s easy to imagine Cersei’s humiliation unfolding right on that very route.

A bonus element that many reviews emphasize is the personal touch from guides who often have direct experience with the show. One mentions, “Our guide Edi worked on the show as a stand-in,” which gives an added layer of authenticity. Plus, the photo on the Iron Throne is a fun way to capture your visit, even if the replica isn’t the actual throne in Westeros.

The tour concludes back at the meeting point near the Jesuit Steps or Stradun, leaving you with plenty of time to continue exploring Dubrovnik’s other sights or grab a meal. The two-hour duration keeps it lively without dragging on, making it ideal for travelers with a packed schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This walk is perfect if you’re a Game of Thrones fan eager to see the series’ filming locations in person. It’s also great for travelers who want a quick overview of Dubrovnik’s highlights — the combination of film sites and city walls offers a satisfying snapshot. The price point makes it accessible for most budgets, especially considering the insider stories and photo ops.

However, if you’re looking for a deep historical tour or want to spend more time exploring each site, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s also not suitable for visitors with mobility issues due to the steps and stairs involved, and some sites, like Lovrijenac Fortress, cost extra if you want to visit independently. Children under 7 and people with certain health concerns should also consider the physical aspects involved.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $28, this tour offers solid value, especially given the glowing reviews praising guides and storytelling. For that price, you get to see the essential filming locations and learn insider stories from guides who may have worked behind the scenes. The inclusion of the Iron Throne photo opportunity is a fun bonus that many visitors treasure.

The tour starts near the Large Onofrio’s Fountain and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. Check availability for your preferred time, as start times can vary. The tour is live-guided in English, and private groups are available if you prefer a more personalized experience.

Remember, if you want to venture inside Lovrijenac Fortress, there’s a separate entrance fee, so budget for that if it interests you. The tour also includes cancellation flexibility — you can cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund — which makes booking less stressful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

If you’re a dedicated Game of Thrones aficionado or just love Dubrovnik’s architecture and scenery, this tour is a clever way to combine your passions. It offers a snapshot of the city’s most famous filming sites, served up with entertaining stories and some great photo opportunities. The guides’ enthusiasm and insider knowledge make it stand out, and the price is hard to beat for what you get.

For those wanting a quick, fun, and informative experience that connects the dots between TV magic and real-world Dubrovnik, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for first-timers who want a lively overview, fans craving behind-the-scenes details, or travelers on a tight schedule.

If you’re after a leisurely, in-depth exploration of Dubrovnik’s history beyond Westeros, you might want to supplement this with additional tours or solo exploration. But for most visitors, this walk hits the sweet spot between entertainment, insight, and value.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7, and the physical aspects like stairs might be challenging for some kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for a quick overview without feeling rushed.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry to Lovrijenac Fortress costs about 15 EUR unless you already have a Dubrovnik Pass or a Walls ticket from the same day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are private groups available?
Yes, private tours are offered, ideal for families or groups wanting a more personalized experience.

What language is the tour in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Large Onofrio’s Fountain, marked by a representative with a red umbrella.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the steps and cobbled streets, and a camera or phone for photos is a must.

Does the tour include other parts of Dubrovnik?
It focuses mainly on the Game of Thrones filming sites, city walls, and key landmarks related to the series.