A Practical Guide to the Total Game of Thrones Shore Excursion in Dubrovnik
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or simply love exploring iconic filming sites, this private tour in Dubrovnik promises a tailored, in-depth experience. The excitement of walking through the very locations where dragons soared and political intrigue unfolded is hard to beat — and with a knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll uncover behind-the-scenes stories along the way.
What we love most about this tour are two key elements: first, the personalized nature of the experience, which means no crowded bus to share with strangers; and second, the stunning variety of locations visited, from lush gardens to historic forts, with spectacular views from Mount Srd. The only potential downside might be the extra cost for tickets to sites like the arboretum or Lokrum Island, but with the convenience of included transportation and a private guide, many will find it well worth the price.
This tour is perfect for fans eager to see key filming locations in a relaxed setting, as well as travelers wanting a rundown of Dubrovnik’s cinematic and historic highlights. If you’re comfortable walking and enjoy a mix of outdoor sights and boat rides, this experience offers a balanced exploration that appeals to those seeking both adventure and authenticity.
This experience made our article of Dubrovnik’s 7 Top Shore Excursions.
Key Points
- Private, customizable experience enhances intimacy and flexibility.
- Stunning views from Mount Srd provide a perfect photo opportunity.
- All transportation included removes the hassle of navigating independently.
- Tickets to major sites like Lovrijenac Fortress and Lokrum Island are included, with others payable on-site.
- Expert guides offer insightful stories about filming locations and Dubrovnik history.
- Well-timed stops ensure a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
Exploring the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour in Detail
A Well-Structured Itinerary with a Mix of Sights and Stories
This tour packs a lot into approximately five and a half hours, balancing outdoor sightseeing with some history and pop culture. Starting at the Trsteno Arboretum, you’re transported into the gardens that served as King’s Landing’s lush exterior. Though the admission fee is not included, the visit lasts about 45 minutes, enough to admire the beautifully maintained greenery, which has doubled for the show’s royal gardens.
Next, the Fort Lovrijenac (the Red Keep) takes center stage. This fortress, perched right outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls, has scenes from Joffrey’s Name Day and the Purple Wedding, making it a favorite for fans. The tour allocates about an hour here, during which your guide will point out exact filming spots and share tales behind the scenes. Keep in mind, admission to the fortress is about 15 EUR, payable on site.
The tour then moves into Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, where you’ll see sites related to the Walk of Shame and a street riot scene. This 40-minute stop is as much about soaking up the city’s ambiance as it is about filming locations. Best of all, the admission here is free, letting you wander and take photos at your own pace.
A highlight for many travelers is the boat ride to Lokrum Island, about 10 minutes across the water. The island features well-known locations like the City of Qarth and the Iron Throne photo-op. You’ll have around two hours here, giving you plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Lokrum’s entrance fee is about 27 EUR, but this is included in the tour price.
Finally, the drive up to Mount Srd offers one of the best panoramic views of Dubrovnik. From the top, you’ll see the city’s red roofs spread out below — a perfect spot for memorable photos. The 45-minute stop here is included, and the view alone makes it worth the trip.
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What You’ll Value in This Tour
The transportation is a key part of the experience. An air-conditioned van ensures comfort, especially during the summer months, and since this is a private tour, you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules of larger group excursions. It also means your guide can tailor the experience slightly if your party has specific interests or time constraints.
Knowledgeable guides really elevate this tour. Based on reviews, guides like Mihaela and Andrea are praised for their storytelling, flexibility, and attentiveness. One reviewer noted that Mihaela’s knowledge and flexibility made the experience memorable, while others appreciated the clear communication and local insights.
However, some travelers noted that finding the guide at the start could be a minor challenge, especially if they didn’t have a visible sign with their name. Arriving early and confirming details beforehand helps avoid this small hiccup.
Pricing at approximately $250 per person might seem steep compared to larger group tours, but it’s justified by the private nature, personalized attention, and the inclusion of several site tickets. If you’re a dedicated fan or a traveler looking for an immersive, hassle-free experience, this tour offers solid value.
Thorough Breakdown of the Experience
Starting at Trsteno Arboretum, we loved the way its lush greenery and floral arrangements doubled as King’s Landing’s gardens. While ticket costs are not included, the garden’s beauty is undeniable, and it’s a peaceful way to start the day. As the guide points out filming angles and botanical details, you get both a visual and narrative feast.
At Fort Lovrijenac, the setting is dramatic. Perched right outside the Old Town, it’s easy to see why it was chosen for the Red Keep. The guide will show where key scenes happened, like Joffrey’s Name Day and Purple Wedding, making these moments come alive. The fortress itself also offers stunning views over the sea and city walls, adding to the experience.
Old Town is a lively, historic labyrinth of narrow streets, stone steps, and bustling squares. The tour’s focus on the walk of shame scene and the riot scenes brings out Dubrovnik’s character and charm. Walking through these streets, you’ll understand why the city became the perfect backdrop for Westeros.
Lokrum Island is a favorite for many, with its fantasy-like scenery and the opportunity to sit on the Iron Throne for photos. The boat ride is quick, but the island feels like a secluded getaway, with plenty of spots to pause and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Mount Srd crowns the tour with its sweeping views. The drive up is scenic, and at the top, you’ll have free time to explore, take photos, or just enjoy the view. It’s the perfect way to round out the day, giving a sense of both the city’s layout and its natural beauty.
Practical Considerations and Tips
- Tickets for sites like the arboretum, fortress, and Lokrum are extra, so budget around 52 EUR in total if you plan to visit all sites.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended, as there’s walking on uneven surfaces and some stairs.
- Weather can influence your experience — a clear day offers the best views from Mount Srd and the island, but rain might limit outdoor sightseeing.
- Timing is well-organized, but arriving early at pickup points can prevent minor delays.
- The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness — walking, some stairs, and boat rides are involved.
- Since this is a private experience, you have some flexibility to customize or extend parts if desired.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This excursion is ideal for dedicated fans of Game of Thrones eager to stand where their favorite characters once did. It’s also a solid choice for travelers who enjoy historic sites combined with natural scenery and want a stress-free, private experience. The combination of outdoor exploration, stunning views, and engaging storytelling makes it suitable for those with an appreciation for both cinematic magic and authentic Croatian sights.
If you’re traveling with family or a small group, the private format offers a personalized touch that large tours can’t match. But note, the extra ticket costs mean you should plan your budget accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For fans of Game of Thrones or those curious about Dubrovnik’s cinematic legacy, this tour offers an engaging, flexible, and mostly hassle-free way to see the highlights. The expert guides, combined with breathtaking views from Mount Srd and the island, make it a memorable experience — provided you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor exploration.
Travelers who appreciate authentic stories and scenic beauty will find this tour a rewarding way to spend half a day. It’s especially valuable for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a tailored experience that hits all the major Westeros filming sites along with some local flavor.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, allowing enough time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or specified pickup point is included in the price, making it very convenient.
Are site entrance fees included?
Some sites like Mount Srd are included, but others like the arboretum, Lovrijenac Fortress, and Lokrum Island have tickets that you need to purchase separately on-site. The total extra cost can be around 52 EUR.
Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, there’s flexibility to discuss your interests with the guide — for example, spending more time at certain locations or skipping others.
Is this tour suitable for children or less-mobile travelers?
It suits those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and stairs are involved. For very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s best to verify with the provider beforehand.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, sun protection, and some cash for extra tickets or snacks. An early start will help avoid the crowds at popular sites.
This detailed review should help you decide whether this private Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik fits your interests and travel style. Whether you’re there for the scenery, the stories, or the thrill of visiting Westeros, it offers a well-rounded, memorable experience in one of Croatia’s most captivating cities.
More Shore Excursions in Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik Coast and Cavtat Shore Excursion
- Private Shore Excursion: Dubrovnik Countryside & Historical Walking Tour
- Dubrovnik Old Town and Panoramas Shore Excursion
- Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: City Walls Walking Tour (entrance ticket included)
- Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Game of Thrones Tour (City Walls ticket included)
- Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Old Town Walking Tour
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