Game of Thrones & the Old City Grand Tour in Dubrovnik

Introduction
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or just love exploring cities with a good mix of history and film lore, this Game of Thrones & the Old City Grand Tour in Dubrovnik offers a compelling way to see the city’s highlights. Its blend of storytelling, stunning scenery, and behind-the-scenes insights makes it a popular choice—booked over 20 times just last week, according to reviews.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the small-group setting, capped at just fifteen participants, which encourages a more personal and relaxed experience. Plus, the guides are highly praised for their wealth of knowledge and engaging storytelling, making history and filming secrets come alive. On the downside, the tour does require some moderate physical fitness, as it’s primarily walking, and the extra fee for Lovrjenac Fortress might surprise some. Still, it’s ideal for those who want to combine cultural exploration with a bit of pop culture magic.

This tour suits fans of the series, history buffs, and curious travelers alike who don’t want a hurried rush but prefer a detailed, friendly guide showing off Dubrovnik’s best bits. It’s particularly good if you want an insider’s perspective—both on the city’s layered past and its role in one of television’s most beloved series.

This experience made our article of 12 Must-Try City Tours In Dubrovnik.

Key Points

Small Group Experience: Personal, engaging tours capped at 15 for more interaction.
Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides who weave history and behind-the-scenes stories seamlessly.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Major landmarks, iconic film locations, and a visit to Lovrjenac Fortress.
Value for Money: At around $36, the tour offers a balanced mix of sights, stories, and photo opportunities.
Flexible Duration: Lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, perfect for fitting into a day in Dubrovnik.
Authentic Insights: Guides often share personal experiences, making the stories memorable and relatable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting and Starting Off at Pile Gate

The tour begins conveniently near Pile Gate, a major entry point into Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Many reviews mention guides meeting travelers promptly, often personally, which sets a friendly tone from the start. A standout is Jelena, whose enthusiasm and local knowledge earn glowing praise. She not only knows the city’s history but also shares personal stories from her childhood during the war, adding depth and authenticity that purely historical tours often lack.

Exploring the Old Town’s Highlights

The walk through Dubrovnik’s medieval streets is an eye-opener. You’ll see the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, Onofrio’s Fountain, the Old Port, the Cathedral, Orlando’s Column, and the Church of St. Blaise. These are the core sights that tell the story of Dubrovnik’s past as a powerful maritime republic. Guides typically take time to explain the significance of each site, making history accessible and engaging.

Many reviews mention the well-paced nature of the tour with enough time for questions and photos. One guest appreciated that their guide asked everyone’s name and origin, creating a warm, personal atmosphere. It’s clear that guides take pride in making the experience both educational and fun.

The Iconic Lovrjenac Fortress

A key highlight is the visit to Lovrjenac Fortress, often called the real-life Red Keep or one of the most recognizable filming locations from Game of Thrones. While the tour doesn’t include the fortress entrance fee (around 15 kuna or about $2.30), the exterior views alone are worth the short walk. Many travelers rave about the stunning panoramic views from the fortress walls and appreciate the opportunity to walk the battlements where famous scenes were shot.

The Old Town Walk + Game of Thrones Filming Locations

The core of the tour is a walking exploration of the Old Town, with special stops at famous filming locations like King’s Landing’s port (Pile Bay) and other recognizable spots from the series. Guides often show photo comparisons—then and now—helping fans and casual viewers alike see how Dubrovnik transformed into Westeros. Several reviews mention the guides’ use of photographs and behind-the-scenes stories, making the series’ filming process tangible.

Pile Bay and the West Harbour

A quick stop at Pile Bay, dubbed the port of King’s Landing, lets you get a sense of how the city doubled for the capital’s maritime hub. It’s an excellent spot for photos and to imagine the bustling scenes from the series. This part of the tour is short but packed with visual context.

Photo Opportunities and Personal Touches

Guides often take the time for photo sessions, and many reviews mention guides acting as unofficial photographers. Nera, for example, received praise for her friendly demeanor and ability to capture memorable shots, both from the show and of the city itself.

Analyzing the Value and Practicalities

Price and Duration

At around $36, this tour offers excellent value. For nearly three hours of guided sightseeing, storytelling, and picture-taking, it beats many other city tours in Dubrovnik, especially considering the small-group intimacy. The tour’s duration means you get a rundown without feeling rushed, and the start and end points are central and easy to reach.

Group Size and Personal Experience

With a cap of fifteen participants, the experience stays intimate, allowing guides to tailor their stories and answer questions comfortably. Multiple reviews highlighted how guides personalize the experience, weaving in local anecdotes and personal experiences, which makes the storytelling more engaging.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The tour involves walking through cobbled streets and some uphill sections at the fortress. Reviews note a moderate fitness level is advisable, especially if you plan to explore Lovrjenac Fortress on your own afterward. However, most guests seem to find the pace manageable and the stops well-judged.

Additional Costs

The only extra fee is for Lovrjenac Fortress entrance, which is not included in the ticket price. This small cost, about 15 kuna, is reasonable and clearly communicated beforehand—something many travelers appreciated.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with Jelena and Nera often singled out for their enthusiasm, personal stories, and ability to bring the city’s past and filming magic to life. Comments about the guides weaving in hilarious anecdotes, showing behind-the-scenes photos, and asking everyone’s name create a warm, inclusive atmosphere.

Several mention how the tour exceeded expectations, especially for families or Game of Thrones fans. One reviewer said the tour far exceeded expectations and appreciated how it combined local history with the filming lore. Many appreciated the photo opportunities, with guides acting as friendly photographers, capturing memories in the iconic cityscape.

Highlights from positive reviews include:

• “Our guide Jelena was fabulous, entertaining, and knowledgeable.”
• “The mix of historical landmarks and filming spots was perfect.”
• “Nera was very knowledgeable about the city’s history and Game of Thrones filming.”
• “Tour was well-paced and included laughs and insider stories.”

The Sum Up

This Game of Thrones & the Old City Grand Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to Dubrovnik. It balances history, scenery, and pop culture, all delivered by friendly, expert guides who make the city’s stories come alive. For those who want a personalized experience, with plenty of photo opportunities and interesting anecdotes, this tour hits the mark.

It’s best suited for fans eager to see the series’ filming locations, history lovers wanting context about Dubrovnik’s past, and families or groups looking for a fun, informative outing. The price point is very reasonable considering the depth of information and the small-group setting, making it a smart choice for travelers who value quality over quantity.

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and want a tour that’s both fun and informative, this is a solid pick. It strikes a good balance between sightseeing, storytelling, and photo moments—delivering a memorable experience you’ll probably talk about long after you leave the city.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited walking ability?
The tour involves walking through the Old Town, which has cobbled streets and some uphill sections, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. If mobility is an issue, check with the provider beforehand.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The tour price does not include the entrance fee for Lovrjenac Fortress, which is around 15 kuna. The fortress exterior is included in the walk, but you can choose to pay for entry if you wish to explore inside.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a good balance of sightseeing, stories, and photo breaks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near Ulica Vrata od Ploča (Ploča Gate) and ends beneath Lovrjenac Fortress, making it easy to continue exploring afterwards.

Are the guides knowledgeable about both Dubrovnik’s history and Game of Thrones?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides for their expertise in both historical facts and behind-the-scenes details from the series.

Can I get photos during the tour?
Absolutely. Guides often act as unofficial photographers, and there are plenty of picturesque spots for photos, especially with the help of guides’ insider tips.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, many families have enjoyed it. The pace and content are suitable for children and adults alike, but be prepared for some walking.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are advisable. The tour is outdoors, so dress for the weather.

In essence, this tour offers a fantastic way to get a layered understanding of Dubrovnik—its past, its role in popular culture, and its stunning scenery—delivered in a friendly, manageable format. Whether you’re a series fan or a history buff, it’s a memorable way to spend an afternoon in this beautiful city.