The global phenomenon of “Game of Thrones” captivated millions, drawing viewers into a meticulously crafted world of dragons, political intrigue, and breathtaking landscapes. But for many, the allure extended beyond the screen, sparking a modern-day pilgrimage known as “set jetting.” This unique form of travel invites fans to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters, exploring the very locations that brought Westeros and Essos to life. And among these cinematic treasure troves, one country stands paramount: Croatia.
With its stunning Adriatic coastline, ancient cities, and remarkably preserved historical architecture, Croatia offered an unparalleled backdrop for the epic saga. From the sun-drenched walls of King`s Landing to the arid fortresses of Meereen, the nation’s diverse geography provided the perfect canvas for George R.R. Martin’s fantastical realms, often requiring minimal digital enhancement—a testament to Croatia`s inherent photogenic charm.
Dubrovnik: The Unmistakable King`s Landing
No location is more synonymous with “Game of Thrones” in Croatia than the magnificent city of Dubrovnik. Perched on the southern Dalmatian coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site flawlessly embodied King`s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Its robust medieval walls, which plunge directly into the sea, became the iconic defenses of the royal city, serving as the backdrop for countless dramatic scenes, from royal processions to desperate sieges.
Walking through Dubrovnik`s narrow, cobblestone streets, visitors can easily retrace the steps of their favorite characters. The imposing Fort Lovrijenac, often referred to as “Dubrovnik`s Gibraltar,” dramatically became the Red Keep, the seat of power for the Baratheons and Lannisters. Here, the Battle of Blackwater Bay was symbolically fought, and Princess Myrcella Baratheon departed for distant Dorne.
Even locations portraying lands far beyond King`s Landing were found within Dubrovnik’s environs. The formidable Minčeta Tower, with its six-meter-thick stone walls, transformed into the House of the Undying in Qarth, where Daenerys Targaryen sought her dragons. This blending of local history with fictional narratives creates an immersive experience that few other destinations can offer. It’s a city where ancient myths and modern fantasies effortlessly coexist.
Beyond the Iron Throne: Gardens of Intrigue and Walls of Stone
Just a short drive from Dubrovnik, the serene beauty of the Trsteno Arboretum provided the perfect setting for the lush gardens of King`s Landing. Here, under the shade of ancient trees and climbing pergolas, characters like Margaery Tyrell, Olenna Tyrell, and Lord Varys famously plotted and gossiped, often over a cup of tea. This botanical garden, one of the oldest in the world, was established by a noble family in the 15th century, boasting trees over 500 years old – a truly timeless setting for timeless intrigues.
Further north, about 56 kilometers from Dubrovnik, lies the unassuming town of Ston. Its most striking feature is a remarkably preserved medieval defensive wall stretching 5.5 kilometers, often dubbed “the European Great Wall.” In “Game of Thrones,” Ston`s walls were seamlessly integrated as part of King`s Landing`s outer defenses. Historically, these formidable fortifications protected the town`s crucial salt pans, a vital economic asset for the Dubrovnik Republic. Today, visitors can still explore these ancient saltworks and, perhaps more enticingly, savor the renowned local oysters, cultivated in the nearby bay.
Split: From Roman Emperor to Khaleesi`s Conqueror
Venturing into Central Dalmatia, the vibrant city of Split played a pivotal role in portraying the lands across the Narrow Sea. At its heart lies Diocletian`s Palace, an astonishingly preserved Roman imperial residence built for Emperor Diocletian between the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD. This colossal complex, itself a UNESCO World Heritage site, became the gritty streets and underground passages of Meereen, the city Daenerys Targaryen liberated in the fourth season.
It`s here, within the palace`s ancient walls, that scenes like Daenerys`s dragon training and the infamous walk of shame for Queen Cersei Lannister (though part of King`s Landing, filmed in Split`s similar architecture) were brought to life. The juxtaposition of a real Roman emperor`s lavish retirement home (Diocletian famously renounced power to cultivate cabbages, a surprisingly relatable post-imperial hobby) being transformed into a city of freed slaves and dragons is a delightful historical irony.
Just 12 kilometers from Split, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, is the Klis Fortress. This ancient stronghold, which once served as the capital of Illyrian tribes and later withstood numerous sieges, provided the stunning exterior shots of Meereen, including the dramatic scene of crucified masters. The panoramic views from Klis over Split and the Adriatic Sea are, in themselves, worth the journey, even without the allure of dragons and Unsullied armies.
The Enduring Allure of “Set Jetting”
The global tourism industry has seen a significant rebound. According to data from the UN Tourism Agency, the first half of 2025 recorded approximately 690 million international tourist arrivals, a notable increase from the previous year. Europe, including Turkey, welcomed around 340 million tourists, showing robust growth. This demonstrates a strong appetite for travel, and “set jetting” destinations like Croatia are perfectly positioned to capitalize on this trend.
The phenomenon highlights how powerful narratives can inspire real-world exploration. Fans aren`t just visiting historical sites; they`re engaging with a tangible connection to a beloved story. This unique blend of history, culture, and fantasy enriches the travel experience, turning a simple vacation into an adventure through a world both real and imagined. Croatia, with its dedication to preserving its heritage and its welcoming embrace of the cinematic world, remains a top destination for those seeking to live out their Westerosi dreams.
