Seville: Games of Thrones and Roman Empire Italica Tour

Introduction: A Peek into Seville’s Hidden Marvels

If you’re visiting Seville and looking for a half-day adventure that combines history, TV drama, and a bit of walking, the Games of Thrones and Roman Empire Italica Tour might be just the ticket. For around $19, you get to explore Italica, the first Roman city in the Iberian Peninsula, famous for its impressive amphitheater and mosaics, as well as its role in the popular HBO series.

This tour is a convenient way to see small but significant Italian ruins just outside Seville, with a duration of about 2 hours. It’s designed for travelers with limited time but big curiosity—whether you’re a history buff, a Game of Thrones fan, or both.

We particularly appreciate how the tour offers skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable guide—though, as some reviews suggest, the quality of the guide can vary. Still, the experience of walking through ancient Roman streets and imagining the past is well worth the price.

If you’re after a quick, engaging look at Roman Spain and some fun TV trivia, this tour could add a memorable layer to your Seville visit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy short, focused excursions and don’t mind a small group or variability in guide enthusiasm.

Key Points

• Affordable entry into Roman ruins and Game of Thrones filming locations.
• Accessible and short, ideal for travelers on a tight schedule.
• Skip-the-line tickets save time and hassle.
• Educational content about Spain’s Roman past and the filming of GOT.
• Optional visit to the Medieval fortress monastery San Isidoro del Campo.
• Group size capped at 60, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Exploring Italica: A Deep Dive

The Roman Roots and Architectural Wonders

This tour begins with a visit to Italica’s archaeological site, a place that’s quietly significant yet often overlooked by the typical tourist crowds. Founded as the first Roman city in Iberia, it became the birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, making it an important site for understanding Roman influence in Spain.

The main highlight is the amphitheatre, which is the third largest in the world, capable of holding 25,000 spectators. Imagine the roars of ancient crowds as you stand amid stone tiers, picturing gladiators and spectacles from centuries past. We loved the way the guide explained its role in Roman entertainment, making history feel tangible.

Beyond the amphitheater, the site is renowned for its vibrant mosaics and ancient domus (homes), which give a glimpse into Roman domestic life. The mosaics are remarkably well-preserved, showing intricate designs and scenes that speak to a sophisticated artistic tradition.

The Game of Thrones Connection

Most visitors are surprised to learn that sequences from HBO’s Game of Thrones were shot right here. The Dragonpit, a massive ruin on the site, served as the setting for pivotal scenes in season seven, where key characters gathered for a summit. The guide shares behind-the-scenes stories about how this ancient Roman arena became a medieval dragon lair, adding a fun twist to the historical tour.

The Optional Visit to San Isidoro del Campo

After exploring Italica, the tour sometimes includes a short ride to San Isidoro del Campo, a well-restored Medieval fortress monastery. This spot offers a different flavor of history, blending Islamic and Christian influences, and provides a peaceful atmosphere after the bustling ancient ruins.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

• About 1 hour 30 minutes exploring Italica, guided by a Blue Badge certified guide.
• Skip-the-line tickets mean no wasting time waiting for entry.
• The tour is conducted via minivan for the journey between sites, making logistics simple and comfortable.
• The total duration is roughly 2 hours, making it a short but concentrated experience.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives

Multiple reviews highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of this tour. Positive feedback often comes from fans of Game of Thrones or those who enjoy history, praising the amphitheater and mosaics as “incredible” and the guides for making the site engaging.

One reviewer, Noelia, commented, “Muy buena experiencia, los guías son muy buenos y la parte del anfiteatro es increíble si eres fan de Juego de Tronos.” That enthusiasm resonates with travelers who want a compact, informative experience wrapped in a fun TV connection.

However, not every review is glowing. Some travelers, like ssosa1, were disappointed with the guide’s professionalism, citing late arrival and distracted behavior, which can affect the overall experience. Another, Juan, simply missed the tour due to scheduling confusion, underscoring the importance of careful planning.

Price and Value

At $18.99 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to access significant Roman ruins without the expense of a full-day private tour. The inclusion of skipping long lines greatly enhances its value, especially during busy seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those with limited time who want a quick yet meaningful exposure to Roman history combined with some TV nostalgia. It’s also ideal for Game of Thrones fans eager to see filming locations firsthand. If you’re a history enthusiast or traveling with family who enjoys archaeological sites, the tour’s manageable length and accessible format make it a practical choice.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Meeting Point: Conjunto Arqueológico de Itálica, Av. Extremadura, Santiponce.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including transportation.
• Cost: $18.99 per person, with all taxes and fees included.
• Guide: A Blue Badge guide guarantees knowledgeable commentary.
• Additional: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.
• Group Size: Limited to 60, so it’s not overly crowded.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For travelers in Seville who love history, television series, or both, this tour offers a compact window into Italy’s Roman past and its unexpected connection to modern pop culture. The amphitheater and mosaics provide a tangible link to ancient life, while the Game of Thrones setting adds a layer of fun and intrigue. The skip-the-line tickets and small group size help make the experience more seamless and personable.

However, the guide quality can vary—some travelers have had less engaging experiences—so managing expectations is wise. The short duration and affordable price make this a good add-on rather than a comprehensive Roman tour, but for a quick glimpse, it hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for fans wanting a photo-worthy experience, history buffs eager to see Roman ruins, or TV series enthusiasts curious about filming locations. If you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration of Seville’s rich history, you might want to pair this with other activities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the short duration makes it manageable for children and adults alike.

Will I see the entire archaeological site?
You’ll explore the main highlights, including the amphitheater, mosaics, and domus, but not every corner of the vast site.

How long does the transportation take?
The tour includes a short minivan ride between the city and Italica, making logistics simple and quick.

Can I visit San Isidoro del Campo on this tour?
Yes, the tour sometimes includes a visit to this Medieval fortress monastery, but it’s optional.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but some areas of the ruins might be uneven. Confirm with the provider if accessibility is a concern.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.