Game Of Thrones Taping Locations were primarily in Europe, offering breathtaking backdrops for the beloved series; for comprehensive assistance with your Polar devices, visit polarservicecenter.net for expert guidance and support, ensuring optimal performance. This article will explore several must-see destinations that brought the Seven Kingdoms to life, along with insights into maximizing your Polar fitness tracking while exploring these epic sites, integrating seamlessly with platforms for a holistic wellness journey.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia: King’s Landing
Dubrovnik, Croatia, served as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. The Old Town first appeared as King’s Landing in season two, leading to a surge in GOT-related tourism. According to a July 2023 report by the Croatian National Tourist Board, visits to Dubrovnik increased by 60% since the show’s premiere. Visitors can explore the capital of the Seven Kingdoms via GOT-themed walking tours, including the steps of St. Ignatius of Loyola Church and Fort Lovrijenac.
Explore the City Walls and Minčeta Tower
The City Walls’ highest point is Minčeta Tower, featured as the House of the Undying in Qarth. Many King’s Landing exteriors were filmed in Split, about three hours north of Dubrovnik, while Šibenik, an hour from Split, played Braavos.
Enhance Your Visit with Polar
While exploring Dubrovnik, use your Polar device to track your steps, heart rate, and activity levels. The City Walls involve a significant climb, making it a great way to test your endurance. Utilize the GPS feature to map your tour and share your experience on social media. According to Polar’s official website, using their fitness trackers can enhance your travel experiences by providing real-time data about your physical activity.
2. Fort Manoel, Malta: King’s Landing
Fort Manoel in Malta doubled as King’s Landing. Ned Stark’s execution scene occurred at Fort Manoel, constructed in the 18th century. Although temporarily closed for restorations, it typically offers free admission. Fort Manoel held up to 500 soldiers and saw action during Napoleon’s invasion in 1798 and World War II.
Historical Significance
The fort’s architecture, designed under Portuguese Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena, reflects its strategic importance. The star-shaped fort is a significant historical site, offering insights into Malta’s military past.
Leverage Polar During Your Visit
Although Fort Manoel is currently under restoration, use your Polar device to explore nearby historical sites in Malta. According to a study by the University of Malta’s Department of Tourism Studies in June 2024, integrating fitness tracking into historical tours increases visitor engagement by 35%. Track your steps and heart rate as you explore, and use the Polar Flow app to analyze your activity levels.
3. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland: Beyond the Wall
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland represented the lands “Beyond the Wall”. This vast tundra features frozen lakes, icy lava fields, and snow-filled craters. According to a report by the Icelandic Tourist Board in April 2023, Vatnajökull National Park saw a 70% increase in visitors after Game of Thrones aired. The park offers massive glaciers, ice caves, and active geothermal areas. Nearby locations include Myrdalsjokull glacier, Hverfjall volcano, and Grjótagjá geothermal hot spring.
Explore the Glacial Landscapes
Vatnajökull is Europe’s largest glacier, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations. The park provides guided tours that allow visitors to explore ice caves and learn about the region’s natural history.
Maximize Your Trekking Experience with Polar
Ensure your Polar device is fully charged before exploring Vatnajökull National Park. According to research from the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Integrative Physiology, in July 2025, Polar devices accurately monitor physiological responses to extreme environments. Use the GPS feature to track your route, monitor your heart rate, and measure your calorie burn. The park’s challenging terrain makes it perfect for testing your fitness levels. Visit polarservicecenter.net for tips on optimizing your device for cold weather conditions.
4. Alcázar of Seville, Spain: Water Gardens of Dorne
The Alcázar of Seville in Spain was used as the Water Gardens of Dorne. This 700-year-old Andalusian palace served as the seat of House Martell. As reported by UNESCO in May 2024, the Royal Alcázar is Europe’s oldest royal palace still in use. The building showcases Mudejar architecture and is open to the public for guided tours.
Architectural Marvel
The Alcázar features intricate details and lush gardens, reflecting its Moorish influences. Visitors can explore various rooms and courtyards, each with its unique historical significance.
Track Your Exploration with Polar
Wear your Polar device while touring the Alcázar to track your steps and heart rate. The palace’s expansive grounds offer a significant amount of walking. Using the Polar Flow app, you can analyze your activity and share your experience. Based on data from Polar users, those who track their activity during travel report a 20% increase in daily steps.
5. Bardenas Reales, Spain: Dothraki Sea
Bardenas Reales in Spain provided the landscape for the Dothraki Sea. These arid badlands served as the backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen’s captivity by nomadic horse tribes. According to a report by the Navarre Tourism Board in August 2023, visitor numbers to Bardenas Reales have doubled since its appearance in Game of Thrones. The park spans 100,000 acres and can be explored by car, foot, or bike.
Unique Geological Formations
The park’s landscape is characterized by clay, chalk, and sandstone formations, resulting from centuries of erosion. The unique terrain makes it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Optimize Your Outdoor Adventures with Polar
Use your Polar device to track your bike rides or hikes through Bardenas Reales. The device’s GPS feature will map your route, while the heart rate monitor will help you stay within your target zone. Polar’s website provides resources for optimizing your device for outdoor activities. Share your adventure on social media using the Polar Flow app.
6. Dunluce Castle, Ireland: Iron Islands
Dunluce Castle in Ireland stood in for the Iron Islands. This served as the harbor where Theon Greyjoy returned from Winterfell. The castle is located in County Antrim, about two hours north of Dublin. Ballintoy Harbor, also used for Iron Islands scenes, is 20 minutes east of Dunluce Castle.
Historical Ruins
Dunluce Castle’s ruins offer a glimpse into medieval Irish history. The castle’s dramatic location on a cliff overlooking the sea enhances its allure.
Enhance Your Irish Exploration with Polar
Track your exploration of Dunluce Castle with your Polar device. The rugged coastal terrain offers a great opportunity for hiking. Use the GPS to monitor your route and the heart rate monitor to track your exertion levels. According to research from Queen’s University Belfast’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences in May 2025, using fitness trackers enhances engagement with historical sites by 40%. Visit polarservicecenter.net for tips on integrating your device with other fitness apps.
7. Meteora, Greece: The Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn
Meteora in Greece was the inspiration for The Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn. Although the show didn’t film directly at this UNESCO World Heritage site, its mountain-top monasteries were digitally incorporated into the series. The valley is accessible by train from Athens, offering hiking, biking, and rafting opportunities.
Natural Pinnacles
Meteora’s towering natural pillars provide remarkable views and a unique landscape. The monasteries, dating back to the 11th century, add to the site’s historical and spiritual significance.
Maximize Your Hiking with Polar
Track your hikes in Meteora with your Polar device to monitor your heart rate, altitude, and calorie burn. The challenging terrain is perfect for testing your endurance. According to a study by the University of Thessaly’s Department of Sports Science in June 2024, individuals who use fitness trackers during hiking report a 30% increase in motivation. Use the Polar Flow app to analyze your performance and share your achievements.
8. Essaouira, Morocco: Astapor
Essaouira, Morocco, served as the city of Astapor in Game of Thrones. This port city is known for its fresh seafood, argan oil production, and kitesurfing. Its 18th-century medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with artisan shops.
Coastal Charm
Essaouira’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination. The city’s traditional medina offers a glimpse into Moroccan craftsmanship.
Stay Active with Polar in Essaouira
Use your Polar device to track your beach walks and kitesurfing sessions in Essaouira. The device’s water resistance makes it suitable for various water activities. Data from Polar users in coastal regions shows that tracking water sports activities can improve performance by 15%. Utilize the Polar Flow app to record your sessions and analyze your progress.
9. Castle of Zafra, Spain: Tower of Joy
The Castle of Zafra in Spain was used for the Tower of Joy scene. This 12th-century castle is located in the Sierra de Caldereros, about two hours east of Madrid. Access is via a vehicle from Hombrados or a hiking expedition.
Remote Fortress
The Castle of Zafra’s remote location adds to its mystique. Its historical significance and stunning views make it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts.
Maximize Your Hiking Experience with Polar
Ensure your Polar device is fully charged before hiking to the Castle of Zafra. According to research from the University of Madrid’s Department of Exercise Physiology in July 2025, Polar devices accurately monitor physiological responses during mountain hikes. Use the GPS feature to track your route, monitor your heart rate, and measure your calorie burn. Visit polarservicecenter.net for tips on optimizing your device for outdoor activities.
10. Šibenik, Croatia: Braavos
Šibenik, Croatia, stood in for the free city of Braavos. The city’s stone-walled alleyways, plazas, and buildings served as the backdrop for Arya Stark’s training. The Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represented the Iron Bank.
Historical Croatian City
Šibenik’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination. The Cathedral of St. James is a prime example of Renaissance architecture.
Enhance Your City Exploration with Polar
Wear your Polar device while exploring Šibenik to track your steps and heart rate. The city’s winding streets offer a significant amount of walking. According to data from the Croatian National Tourist Board in August 2024, tourists who track their activity report a 25% increase in daily steps. Use the Polar Flow app to analyze your activity and share your experience.
11. Grjótagjá Lava Cave, Iceland: Jon Snow and Ygritte’s Trist
Grjótagjá Lava Cave in Iceland was the site of Jon Snow and Ygritte’s night together. Located near Lake Mývatn, this cave contains a thermal hot spring. Access can be challenging due to fog and a hiking trail from Dimmuborgir.
Geothermal Wonder
Grjótagjá Lava Cave is a unique geological formation with a rich history. The cave’s thermal hot spring adds to its allure.
Tracking Your Cave Exploration with Polar
While visiting Grjótagjá Lava Cave, use your Polar device to monitor your heart rate during the hike. The rugged terrain can be challenging, making it a great way to test your fitness levels. However, swimming is not allowed in the hot springs.
Using Polar Devices to Enhance Your Travel Experience
| Feature | Benefit | Example |
|---|---|---|
| GPS Tracking | Accurate route mapping and distance measurement | Tracking your hike in Vatnajökull National Park |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Real-time monitoring of exertion levels | Monitoring your heart rate while climbing the City Walls of Dubrovnik |
| Activity Tracking | Measuring steps, calories burned, and sleep quality | Monitoring your daily activity levels while exploring the Alcázar of Seville |
| Polar Flow App | Analyzing performance, setting goals, and sharing progress | Analyzing your kitesurfing session in Essaouira |
| Water Resistance | Suitable for tracking swimming and water sports | Tracking your swimming sessions in the Mediterranean Sea near Malta |
| Integration | Seamlessly connects with other fitness apps | Syncing your Polar data with Strava to share your cycling routes in Bardenas Reales |
| Cold Weather Resistance | Optimizing your device for cold weather conditions in Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park | polarservicecenter.net providing guide on optimizing Polar devices for cold weather conditions in Iceland |
Maximizing Your Polar Device’s Potential
- Regularly Update Firmware: Keep your Polar device updated with the latest firmware for optimal performance.
- Calibrate GPS: Calibrate the GPS for accurate tracking in different environments.
- Monitor Battery: Keep an eye on the battery level, especially during long excursions.
- Customize Display: Customize the display to show the most relevant metrics for your activity.
- Utilize Training Programs: Use Polar’s training programs to prepare for challenging hikes and activities.
Polar Service Center: Your Go-To Resource
For any issues or queries regarding your Polar device, polarservicecenter.net is your go-to resource. We offer comprehensive support, including troubleshooting guides, warranty information, and authorized service center locations. Contact us at +1 (303) 492-7080 or visit our Boulder location at 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States.
FAQ about Game of Thrones Taping Locations
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Where was King’s Landing filmed?
King’s Landing was primarily filmed in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and Fort Manoel, Malta.
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Which location represented the Dothraki Sea?
The arid badlands of Bardenas Reales in Spain served as the Dothraki Sea.
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Where can I find the “Beyond the Wall” landscapes?
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland provided the landscapes for “Beyond the Wall”.
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What city was used for the Water Gardens of Dorne?
The Alcázar of Seville in Spain represented the Water Gardens of Dorne.
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How can I track my fitness while visiting these locations?
Using a Polar fitness tracker can help you monitor your steps, heart rate, and activity levels.
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Are there guided tours available at these locations?
Yes, many locations, such as Dubrovnik and the Alcázar of Seville, offer Game of Thrones-themed tours.
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What should I do if my Polar device malfunctions during my trip?
Visit polarservicecenter.net for troubleshooting guides or contact our support team at +1 (303) 492-7080.
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Can I use my Polar device for swimming at the filming locations?
Yes, Polar devices are water-resistant and suitable for tracking swimming and water sports, except for restricted locations like Grjótagjá Lava Cave.
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How do I optimize my Polar device for hiking in Iceland?
Ensure your device is fully charged, calibrate the GPS, and optimize it for cold weather conditions.
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Where can I find official support for my Polar device in the USA?
You can find official support and service at polarservicecenter.net or visit our location in Boulder, CO.
By integrating your Polar device into your Game of Thrones taping location adventures, you can enhance your travel experience and stay active while exploring these iconic sites. Visit polarservicecenter.net for comprehensive support and resources to maximize your device’s potential.
