For fans of the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, a unique opportunity awaits in Bilbao. This half-day tour transports them to the iconic filming locations used in Season 7, offering an immersive experience that blends the fantasy world with the region’s captivating Basque culture and history. Highlight of the tour is the dramatic Gaztelugatxe Island, which served as the backdrop for the Dragonstone fortress. Visitors will explore the island’s winding staircase leading to a chapel, while gaining insights into the making of the show. Whether a die-hard fan or simply curious, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This half-day tour from Bilbao takes visitors to filming locations used in Season 7 of Game of Thrones, including the iconic Gaztelugatxe Island.
- The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a guided exploration of the dramatic, walled castle on the island.
- Visitors can climb the steep, winding staircase to the chapel on Gaztelugatxe Island, offering stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea.
- The tour provides an immersive experience for Game of Thrones fans, with opportunities to dress up in cloaks and wield swords for photo ops.
- The tour also includes insights into the region’s Basque culture, architecture, and history, adding to the overall experience.
Overview of the Tour
This half-day tour from Bilbao takes visitors to see filming locations used in Season 7 of the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and includes a visit to the dramatic walled castle on the island of Gaztelugatxe.
Participants will learn about Basque culture and history along the way, and have the opportunity to don cloaks and wield swords for photo ops. The tour is led by a local guide and transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though the hike to Gaztelugatxe does involve a 1.2 km trail with a 35% incline in some areas.
Filming Locations in Season 7
The tour visits several iconic locations featured in Season 7 of Game of Thrones, including the dramatic walled castle on the island of Gaztelugatxe. This breathtaking site served as the backdrop for the Dragonstone fortress, the ancestral home of House Targaryen.
Visitors will have the opportunity to:
- Explore the steep, winding staircase that leads up to the chapel on the island, just as Daenerys Targaryen did in the show.
- Admire the stunning coastal views that set the scene for pivotal moments in the series.
The tour provides an immersive experience for any Game of Thrones fan, transporting them directly into the captivating world of Westeros.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy the rich Basque culture and history that inspired the producers’ vision for the show.
Visiting Gaztelugatxe Island
Visitors explore the steep, winding staircase that leads up to the chapel on Gaztelugatxe Island, just as Daenerys Targaryen did in the Game of Thrones series.
The dramatic, walled castle sits atop the tiny, picturesque island, offering stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea. Travelers climb the 241 steps to reach the chapel, pausing to take in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
The trail to the island is 1.2 km long with a 35% incline in some areas, so a moderate level of fitness is required. At the top, visitors can wander around the historic site and imagine themselves in the world of Westeros before making the descent back down.
Exploring Basque Culture and History
Along With the dramatic scenery of Gaztelugatxe Island, the Game of Thrones tour also provides an opportunity for travelers to learn about Basque culture and history.
Bilbao, the starting point of the tour, is a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to understanding the unique identity and traditions of the Basque region.
During the tour, guests will:
- Explore Basque architecture and cuisine, gaining insights into the local way of life
- Discover the region’s rich history, including its centuries-old ties to the sea and maritime trade
- Learn about the Basque language, one of the oldest in Europe, and its significance to the local people
Throughout the experience, the guide’s live commentary brings these cultural elements to life, creating a well-rounded and immersive experience for participants.
Tour Duration and Inclusions
This half-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time to explore the dramatic filming locations and learn about Basque culture.
The experience includes air-conditioned transportation, live commentary from a local guide, and the opportunity to dress up in cloaks and wield swords for photo opportunities. Lunch is also provided as part of the tour.
Visitors should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the trail to the iconic Gaztelugatxe location involves a 1.2 km hike with a 35% incline in some areas.
The tour also has a maximum group size of 19 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The tour meets at the Guggenheim Museum, located next to the iconic Puppy sculpture, and travelers should arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
This Game of Thrones tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility concerns should consider this. Plus, infants must sit on laps during the tour, and pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join.
Lastly, a moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the trail to Gaztelugatxe is 1.2 km long with a 35% incline in some areas.
With a maximum of 19 travelers per tour and convenient proximity to public transportation, this half-day adventure promises an immersive Game of Thrones experience in the beautiful Basque region.
Tour Accessibility and Restrictions
Accessibility and physical requirements factor prominently in this Game of Thrones tour, with the trail to Gaztelugatxe posing a moderate challenge for participants.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join, as the trail requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
The 1.2 km trail to Gaztelugatxe includes a 35% incline in some areas, so participants should be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike.
Tour group size is limited to 19 travelers to enhance the experience.
Group Size and Physical Fitness
With a maximum group size of 19 travelers, the Game of Thrones tour from Bilbao ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Participants should also maintain a moderate level of physical fitness, as the 1.2 km trail to the iconic Gaztelugatxe location involves a 35% incline in certain sections.
The tour requires a moderate level of physical exertion, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility or pregnant travelers.
Sturdy footwear is recommended to navigate the uneven terrain and steep incline along the trail.
Participants should be prepared to walk at a steady pace for the duration of the tour, which lasts approximately 5 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Snacks Be Provided During the Tour?
No, snacks are not provided during the tour. The inclusions for this tour are limited to an air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary, a local guide, cloaks and swords for photos, and lunch. Snacks are not mentioned as part of the tour package.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch, but travelers may want to pack additional snacks or beverages to have on hand during the approximately 5-hour excursion.
Are There Restroom Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour includes restroom breaks. According to the tour details, the 5-hour excursion provides participants with the opportunity to use restroom facilities during the journey, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
Can We Opt-Out of the Optional Activities?
Yes, participants can opt-out of optional activities on the tour. The tour operator allows flexibility for travellers who don’t wish to participate in certain activities. However, the full tour experience may be limited if key activities are skipped.
Is There a Discount for Booking in Advance?
Yes, there is typically a discount for booking the Game of Thrones tour from Bilbao in advance. Early booking often provides a lower rate compared to last-minute reservations. Check the tour provider’s website for any available advance purchase discounts.
Recap
The Game of Thrones tour from Bilbao offers an immersive experience for both fans of the show and those interested in the Basque region’s rich heritage.
Visitors can explore the iconic Dragonstone filming location on Gaztelugatxe Island and gain insights into the local culture, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
