“Not Today” – Game of Thrones and History of Split Private Guided Walking Tour

Exploring Split with a Game of Thrones Twist: A Practical Review of the Private Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or just eager to explore one of Croatia’s most captivating cities, the “Not Today” private walking tour offers a tempting blend of both. This 1.5 to 2-hour experience isn’t just about snapping a few photos of iconic sites — it’s about understanding the city’s story, seeing where epic scenes of the series were filmed, and getting a taste of what makes Split so special.

Two things we love about this tour are the expert local guides who bring both history and series trivia to life, and the opportunity to sit on a real throne, which adds a fun, memorable touch. A possible consideration is the additional cost for entry into Diocletian’s Palace substructures, which isn’t included in the base price. This means you’ll want to budget a little extra if you want to explore the underground parts thoroughly.

This tour suits Game of Thrones enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who enjoy small, personalized experiences that mix storytelling with sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a balance of entertainment and education, especially if they prefer private guides over large group tours.

This experience made our article of 11 Of The Best Game of Thrones Tours In Split.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private guide, tailored to your interests
• Game of Thrones locations: See where iconic scenes were shot
• Historical insights: Learn about Diocletian’s Palace and Split’s past
• Photo opportunities: Sit on the throne — a highlight for fans
• Accessible and flexible: Near public transportation, good for most travelers
• Extra costs: Entry to some sites (like the Palace substructures) is paid separately

A Deep Dive into the Split “Not Today” Tour

An Engaging Introduction at Riva Harbor

The tour kicks off at Riva Harbor, the lively heart of Split’s waterfront. From the start, our guide Victoria shared stories about how Croatia’s beautiful coastline doubled as a filming backdrop for Game of Thrones. Sitting here, you get a sense of the city’s vibrant sea life and bustling atmosphere. This initial stop, completely free, sets the tone with stories that tie the city’s past and its role in the popular series.

Exploring Diocletian’s Palace and the Series Filming Sites

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Diocletian’s Palace, a massive Roman-era fortress that forms the core of Split. The guide will take you through the substructures, where Game of Thrones fans will recognize scenes from Meereen — the city Daenerys Targaryen conquers and frees the slaves. This part isn’t included in the ticket price; an additional fee is required to access the underground vaults, but it’s well worth it for fans eager to see the filming locations up close.

Walking through the vestibulum and the Peristyle, you’ll learn how these ancient structures were transformed into parts of the show’s fictional cities. The Peristyle Square, with its impressive columns and lively atmosphere, doubles as the setting for many pivotal scenes, making it a great spot for photos and general awe.

Delving Into Split’s Roman Roots

The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum, offers a glimpse into Split’s ancient Roman past. Climbing the bell tower rewards visitors with impressive views over the city, blending history with panoramic beauty. The main entrance, the Golden Gate, looks much like it did in Roman times and is a popular spot for photos.

Connecting Local Landmarks and Game of Thrones

The City Museum of Split, though not visited inside, is nearby and features scenes from the series shot outdoors. The Grgur Ninski Statue, created by renowned sculptor Ivan Mestrovic, is another local landmark that adds a dash of artistic culture to the walk. The fan shop at the end provides a chance to pick up souvenirs, perfect for fans wanting a keepsake of their visit.

How the Tour Feels and What You’ll Experience

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Victoria, who according to reviews, make the experience both fun and informative. One reviewer remarked, “Victoria was an absolute pleasure. She was as knowledgeable about the palace and Split in general,” emphasizing how guides make or break the experience.

The tour’s duration is ideal for travelers who want a quick yet thorough overview, balancing history, series filming, and local culture. Since the tour is private, it adapts well to your pace and interests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $93.52 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially given its private nature and the inclusion of a dedicated guide. Compared to large group tours, you get more attention and flexibility, which can make for a more relaxed and engaging experience.

It’s worth noting, though, that the entry fee for the Palace substructures is not included, so plan for an extra $8 per person if you want to explore those underground chambers. The tour operates daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., so you can choose a time that fits your itinerary.

What Travelers Say

Recent reviews are glowing, with perfect 5-star ratings. One traveler said, “Her photo book helped us remember the Game of Thrones scenes that were shot in and around Split,” highlighting how guides help reinforce the show’s locations with visual aids. Another appreciated the blend of local history and series insights — perfect for fans who want more than just a superficial tour.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is particularly well-suited for Game of Thrones fans wanting behind-the-scenes insights and filming locations. History buffs will appreciate the stories about Diocletian’s Palace and Split’s Roman past, while travelers seeking a personalized and informative walking tour will find the private guide a major perk. Its flexible timing and proximity to public transportation make it accessible for most visitors.

If you’re looking for a short, engaging activity that combines pop culture with genuine historical context, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer exploring independently or are on a very tight budget, you might find some parts of the experience, like the underground sections, require extra planning.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

For fans eager to see where their favorite series was filmed, this tour offers a rare chance to stand in the actual locations, sit on a Game of Thrones throne, and enjoy a knowledgeable guide who makes history come alive. The personalized nature of the tour means you’ll get tailored stories and plenty of chances to ask questions, making it a fun and educational experience.

Travelers interested in Croatia’s ancient architecture, local culture, and pop culture connections will find this tour enriching. The small group size and private guide ensure a comfortable pace and personalized attention, which can turn a simple sightseeing walk into a memorable adventure.

In essence, if you want a well-rounded, slightly playful introduction to Split that combines history, scenery, and series lore, this tour offers excellent value for the price.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour is tailored to your group, and the pace is manageable for families and older visitors.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest levels.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended since the tour is popular and is booked on average 108 days ahead.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the price includes the guide only. You’ll need to pay €8 for entry into the Diocletian’s Palace substructures if you want to see that area.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Riva Harbor and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to incorporate into your day’s plans.

Can I sit on the Game of Thrones throne?
Yes, part of the fun is sitting on the throne and taking photos, making for a memorable souvenir.

This private “Not Today” tour offers a balanced mix of local history and series excitement, perfect for travelers who value personalized insights and authentic sights. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a curious explorer, it’s a solid choice for discovering Split’s past—and its role in a fantasy world.