Dragons soaring overhead, knights clashing swords, and whispers of political intrigue – these are the images that come to mind when we think of Game of Thrones. But what if I told you that you could step into this fantastical world without ever leaving Earth? From the sun-baked streets of Dubrovnik to the mist-shrouded towers of Carcassonne, there are real-life medieval cities that look as if they’ve been plucked straight from the pages of George R.R. Martin’s epic saga. Pack your bags and prepare for a journey through time as we explore 20 medieval cities that will transport you to the Seven Kingdoms and beyond.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Where King’s Landing Comes to Life
Perched on the sparkling Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik’s limestone streets and imposing walls served as the backdrop for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. As you walk along the city walls, you can almost hear the echoes of Cersei’s infamous walk of shame.
Local tour guide Marko Petrović shares, “The moment visitors step through the Pile Gate, they’re transported to another time. The blend of medieval architecture and Game of Thrones lore creates a magical atmosphere that’s truly unique to Dubrovnik.”
“Walking through the narrow alleys of the Old Town, you can feel the weight of history and the excitement of fantasy merging into one unforgettable experience.” – Marko Petrović, Dubrovnik tour guide
Don’t miss the chance to climb the Jesuit Staircase, where Cersei began her walk of atonement, or visit Fort Lovrijenac, which doubled as the Red Keep. For a truly immersive experience, join a Game of Thrones walking tour led by extras who appeared in the show.
2. Split, Croatia: The Heart of Daenerys’ Conquest
Just a few hours north of Dubrovnik lies Split, home to Diocletian’s Palace, which served as the backdrop for Daenerys’ throne room in Meereen. The ancient Roman ruins, with their imposing columns and intricate stonework, create an atmosphere of power and antiquity that perfectly embodies the essence of the Mother of Dragons’ rule.
Explore the underground cellars where Daenerys kept her dragons, and climb to the top of the Bell Tower of St. Domnius for a panoramic view of the city that would make even Drogon jealous. As you wander through the narrow streets, keep an eye out for hidden courtyards and ancient sphinxes that add to the city’s mystical allure.
3. Girona, Spain: Braavos and Beyond
The Catalan city of Girona played multiple roles in Game of Thrones, most notably as the Free City of Braavos. The stunning Girona Cathedral, with its imposing Baroque facade, was transformed into the Great Sept of Baelor, while the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter became the training grounds for Arya Stark.
Local historian Dr. Maria Sanchez explains, “Girona’s rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture made it the perfect canvas for the show’s creators. Our city has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries, much like the fictional Braavos.”
“The beauty of Girona is that it doesn’t just look like a medieval fantasy – it is a living, breathing piece of history that continues to evolve while honoring its past.” – Dr. Maria Sanchez, Girona historian
Take a stroll across the Pont de Pedra, reminiscent of the Long Bridge of Volantis, or climb the steps of Sant Martí Sacosta to recreate Arya’s harrowing chase scene. For a taste of local culture, visit during the Temps de Flors festival, when the entire city blooms with floral displays fit for a Highgarden wedding.
4. Ait Benhaddou, Morocco: The Yellow City of Yunkai
Crossing the Narrow Sea to Essos, we find ourselves in the breathtaking ksar of Ait Benhaddou. This ancient fortified city in Morocco served as the yellow city of Yunkai, conquered by Daenerys in her campaign across Slaver’s Bay. The mud-brick buildings, stacked like a giant sandcastle against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, create a scene straight out of a desert fantasy.
As you climb to the top of the ksar, imagine Daenerys’ army of Unsullied marching through the narrow passageways. The view from the top, overlooking the surrounding desert landscape, is nothing short of majestic. Visit at sunset to see the entire city bathed in a golden light that truly brings Yunkai to life.
5. Mdina, Malta: The Original King’s Landing
Before Dubrovnik took center stage, the walled city of Mdina in Malta served as the first iteration of King’s Landing in Season 1. Known as the “Silent City,” Mdina’s car-free streets and imposing gates create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue worthy of the Lannisters’ scheming.
Wander through Mesquita Square, where Catelyn and Ser Rodrik arrived to warn Ned Stark, or visit the Mdina Gate, which appeared in several pivotal scenes. The city’s mix of medieval and baroque architecture provides a fascinating glimpse into the layers of history that inspired Martin’s complex world.
6. Carcassonne, France: A Fortress Fit for Westeros
While not featured in the show, the medieval citadel of Carcassonne in southern France could easily pass for any number of Westerosi strongholds. With its double-walled fortifications and 53 watchtowers, Carcassonne embodies the essence of a medieval fortress city.
Explore the winding streets within the walls, each turn revealing a new architectural marvel. The Château Comtal, with its own drawbridge and moat, offers a glimpse into the life of medieval nobility that could rival the Tyrells or Tullys.
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of the hotels within the citadel walls. As night falls and the tourists depart, you’ll have the rare opportunity to experience the medieval city as its inhabitants would have centuries ago.
7. Edinburgh, Scotland: The North Remembers
The Scottish capital of Edinburgh, with its imposing castle perched atop an extinct volcano, captures the rugged spirit of the North. While not a filming location, the city’s Old Town, with its narrow closes and towering tenements, evokes the atmosphere of Winterfell and the northern strongholds.
Visit the Royal Mile, where the stone buildings and cobblestone streets transport you to a time of tartans and claymores. For a true taste of northern hospitality, duck into one of the many pubs along the way for a dram of whisky and some traditional Scottish fare.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Edinburgh Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and houses the Scottish Crown Jewels – a sight that would make even Cersei Lannister envious. For a more mystical experience, venture down to the underground vaults, where tales of ghosts and ancient mysteries abound.
8. Toledo, Spain: The Crossroads of Cultures
Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” Toledo’s blend of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences creates a tapestry of architecture and history that could easily fit into the diverse world of Game of Thrones. The city’s dramatic setting, perched atop a hill and surrounded by the Tagus River, is reminiscent of the Eyrie or Riverrun.
Explore the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, where you can visit ancient synagogues and the workshop of a traditional sword maker – perhaps crafting blades to rival Valyrian steel. The imposing Alcázar fortress, standing sentinel over the city, could easily pass for one of the great castles of Westeros.
“Toledo is a living testament to the power of cultural fusion. Here, you can see how different traditions and beliefs can come together to create something truly magnificent – much like the diverse realms of Westeros.” – Carmen Rodriguez, Toledo historian
As you stand on the Mirador del Valle viewpoint, taking in the panoramic view of the city, it’s easy to imagine dragons soaring overhead or armies marching across the plains below.
9. Mont Saint-Michel, France: The Citadel of the Faith
Rising from the sea like a vision from a dream, Mont Saint-Michel could easily be mistaken for the Great Sept of Baelor or one of the grand castles of Westeros. This tidal island, crowned by a magnificent abbey, has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.
As you climb the winding streets to the abbey, you’ll pass through layers of history, from medieval fortifications to Renaissance mansions. The view from the top, overlooking the bay and the surrounding countryside, is nothing short of breathtaking.
Time your visit with the tides to witness the island’s transformation as it becomes cut off from the mainland – a natural defense that would make any castle engineer proud. For a truly magical experience, stay overnight on the island and wander the empty streets by moonlight, when the modern world fades away and the medieval atmosphere truly comes alive.
10. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic: A Fairytale Come to Life
Nestled in the hills of South Bohemia, Český Krumlov is a fairytale town that could easily serve as the backdrop for one of the more idyllic corners of the Seven Kingdoms. The town’s centerpiece is its stunning castle, perched high above the Vltava River, which winds through the heart of the old town like a moat.
Wander through the castle’s courtyards and gardens, each offering a new perspective on the town below. Don’t miss the Baroque theater, one of the best-preserved in Europe, which could easily host one of Joffrey’s lavish entertainments.
As you explore the cobblestone streets of the old town, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of medieval charm and Renaissance splendor. Visit during the Five-Petalled Rose Celebration in June to see the town come alive with jousting tournaments, historical reenactments, and medieval markets that would put even the grandest Westerosi festival to shame.
11. Segovia, Spain: Where Roman Grandeur Meets Medieval Charm
Dominated by its magnificent Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle, Segovia is a city that seamlessly blends ancient grandeur with medieval romance. The Alcázar of Segovia, with its soaring towers and dramatic setting, is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle – and it’s easy to imagine it as the seat of a Westerosi noble house.
Stroll along the aqueduct, a feat of engineering that would impress even the builders of the Wall, and make your way through the winding streets of the old town. The city’s Romanesque churches and Gothic cathedral offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Spanish history that parallels the complex world of Game of Thrones.
For a taste of local culture, sample the city’s famous cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) – a dish fit for a king’s feast. As you dine in one of the city’s historic restaurants, you can almost imagine yourself at a grand banquet in the Red Keep.
12. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany: A Time Capsule of Medieval Life
Step into the pages of a medieval storybook in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. With its intact city walls, watchtowers, and half-timbered houses, Rothenburg offers a glimpse into the everyday life of a medieval city that could easily fit into the world of Game of Thrones.
Walk the covered walkway atop the city walls for a bird’s eye view of the town, or climb the Town Hall Tower for panoramic vistas of the surrounding Bavarian countryside. Visit the Medieval Crime Museum for a sobering look at medieval justice – perhaps not so different from the harsh laws of Westeros.
For a truly immersive experience, join the Night Watchman’s Tour, where you’ll be guided through the darkened streets by a cloaked figure, lantern in hand, sharing tales of the town’s history and legends. It’s an atmosphere that would make even the bravest member of the Night’s Watch feel right at home.
13. San Gimignano, Italy: The Medieval Manhattan
Known as the “Town of Fine Towers,” San Gimignano’s skyline of medieval skyscrapers creates a silhouette that could easily belong in one of the great cities of Westeros. Once home to 72 tower houses built by wealthy families to demonstrate their power and prestige, 14 of these impressive structures still stand today.
Climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest remaining tower, for breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside. As you wander the narrow streets, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with each corner revealing a new marvel.
Don’t miss the chance to sample the local Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, a crisp white that’s been produced in the region since the Middle Ages. Sipping a glass in one of the town’s medieval piazzas, you can almost imagine yourself as a wealthy merchant or noble in a bustling Westerosi port city.
14. Conwy, Wales: A Fortress by the Sea
The walled town of Conwy, dominated by its imposing 13th-century castle, could easily stand in for one of the great coastal strongholds of Westeros. Built by Edward I as part of his conquest of Wales, Conwy Castle with its eight massive towers offers a tangible link to medieval warfare and strategy.
Walk the town walls for stunning views of the castle, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains. Visit the smallest house in Great Britain, a tiny red dwelling on the quayside that could pass for a humble fisherman’s home in a Westerosi port.
For a truly unique experience, stay at the Castle Hotel, a former Elizabethan coaching inn, where you can dine on Welsh specialties in a setting that wouldn’t look out of place in a scene from Game of Thrones. As you explore this perfectly preserved medieval town, you’ll feel the weight of history at every turn.
15. Óbidos, Portugal: A Queen’s Gift
Encircled by imposing medieval walls, the whitewashed town of Óbidos was traditionally given as a wedding gift to Portuguese queens. This charming “wedding present” could easily fit into the world of Game of Thrones as a picturesque stronghold gifted to seal a political alliance.
Enter through the Porta da Vila, adorned with traditional blue and white azulejo tiles, and lose yourself in the maze of narrow, flower-bedecked streets. Climb the walls for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
Don’t leave without trying a glass of Ginjinha d’Óbidos, a sweet cherry liqueur often served in small chocolate cups – a treat that would delight even the most discerning Westerosi palate. Visit during the annual Medieval Market in July to see the town transformed with period costumes, music, and reenactments that bring the Middle Ages vividly to life.
16. Visby, Sweden: The City of Roses and Ruins
On the Swedish island of Gotland lies Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site that captures the essence of a medieval Hanseatic League town. With its remarkably preserved ring wall and abundance of ruined medieval churches, Visby could easily stand in for a prosperous port city in the world of Game of Thrones.
Explore the botanical gardens, where roses climb ancient ruins, creating a romantic atmosphere that belies the city’s turbulent history. Visit the Gotland Museum to see the world’s largest collection of picture stones, which tell stories of Viking adventures that could rival any tale from the Iron Islands.
For a truly immersive experience, visit during Medieval Week in August, when the entire town transforms into a living history exhibit. Watch jousting tournaments, attend medieval banquets, and shop at markets filled with traditional crafts and foods. As you wander the cobblestone streets, the line between past and present blurs, transporting you to a world not so different from the one George R.R. Martin created.
17. Monsanto, Portugal: The Village That Grew from Stone
Perched atop a mountain in central Portugal, Monsanto is a village unlike any other. Here, massive granite boulders form part of the town’s architecture, with houses squeezed between, under, and even into the rocks. This unique landscape could easily serve as the backdrop for one of the more remote and rugged regions of Westeros.
Climb to the ruins of the Templar castle at the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. As you navigate the narrow, winding streets, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a world where nature and human ingenuity have formed an inseparable bond.
Visit during the Festa da Divina Santa Cruz in May to witness a centuries-old tradition where women balance clay pots of flowers on their heads as they climb to the castle – a sight that would not seem out of place in the diverse cultures of Essos.
18. Carcassonne, France: A Fortress Fit for Fantasy
While we briefly mentioned Carcassonne earlier, this magnificent walled city deserves a deeper exploration. With its double ring of ramparts and 53 towers, Carcassonne is the epitome of a medieval fortress city and could easily stand in for any number of Westerosi strongholds.
As you approach the city, the sight of its massive walls rising above the surrounding vineyards is truly awe-inspiring. Enter through the Narbonne Gate and lose yourself in the maze of cobblestone streets, each turn revealing a new wonder.
Visit the Château Comtal within the citadel for a glimpse into the life of medieval nobility, or walk the ramparts for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Don’t miss the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, with its beautiful stained glass windows that rival any sept in the Seven Kingdoms.
For a truly magical experience, visit during the annual Festival de Carcassonne in July, when the medieval city comes alive with music, theater, and dance performances set against the backdrop of the illuminated fortress walls.
19. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: A Bohemian Gem
Nestled in a meandering bend of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is a fairytale town that could easily serve as the setting for one of the more idyllic corners of the Seven Kingdoms. Dominated by its 13th-century castle, the town is a maze of cobblestone streets, Renaissance houses, and hidden courtyards.
Explore the castle complex, one of the largest in Central Europe, with its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. Don’t miss the chance to climb the castle tower for panoramic views of the red-roofed town below.
For a unique perspective, rent a canoe and paddle down the Vltava River, which wraps around the town like a moat. As you float beneath ancient stone bridges and past medieval buildings, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a world where time stands still.
20. Urbino, Italy: The Perfect Renaissance Gem
While Game of Thrones draws more from medieval aesthetics, the perfectly preserved Renaissance town of Urbino offers a glimpse into what the more cultured and prosperous regions of Westeros might have evolved into. Perched on a high sloping hillside, Urbino’s skyline of towers and domes creates a silhouette that could easily belong in a fantasy realm.
At the heart of the town stands the Palazzo Ducale, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that could rival any palace in King’s Landing. Explore its labyrinthine corridors and grand halls, home to one of Italy’s most important art collections.
Wander the narrow streets of the old town, where every corner reveals a new architectural marvel. Visit the birthplace of the great Renaissance artist Raphael, or climb to the fortezza Albornoz for panoramic views of the surrounding Le Marche countryside.
As night falls and the streets empty of tourists, the soft glow of streetlamps on ancient stone creates an atmosphere of timeless beauty and mystery that captures the essence of a world where history and fantasy intertwine.
Conclusion: Where Fantasy Meets Reality
As we conclude our journey through these 20 medieval cities, it’s clear that the line between fantasy and reality is often blurrier than we might think. From the sun-baked streets of Dubrovnik to the mist-shrouded towers of Carcassonne, these real-world locations offer a tangible link to the imaginary world of Game of Thrones and beyond.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or simply a lover of history and architecture, these cities offer a chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in worlds of wonder and intrigue. As you plan your next adventure, consider venturing beyond the beaten path to explore these living monuments to human creativity and resilience. Who knows? You might just find yourself writing your own epic tale along the way.
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