Game of Thrones took the world by storm with its interesting story and high-action scenes. However, it wasn’t just the story and characters that captured attention. The stunning Nordic landscapes used in the filming really built the atmosphere and brought the story to life. Westeros was no longer a fictional location. If you’re interested in visiting these real-life locations with your rental car in Iceland, here’s everything you need to know to get there.
Join us as we create an itinerary that includes all the iconic stops throughout Iceland where your favorite Game of Thrones scenes were shot. Whether you’re simply interested in seeing these beautiful locations with your own eyes or want to feel like you’re part of the Game of Thrones story, this guide will help you gain first-hand experience of some of the most memorable moments in the series.
Where Was Game of Thrones Filmed?
Iceland wasn’t the only filming location for Game of Thrones. Scenes were shot in numerous countries and regions to build out the entire world of Westeros. While there are too many to name them all, here are the main locations:
- Iceland: Many of the scenes that take place “Beyond the Wall” in the north, including some with Brienne and the Hound, were primarily shot in Iceland.
- Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland was the main filming location for places like Castle Ward (Winterfell), Dark Hedges (Kingsroad), and Ballintoy (Pyke).
- Croatia: The city of Dubrovnik, along the coast, was the backdrop for King's Landing, including Fort Lovrjenac (Red Keep) and Dubac Quarry (Dragonpit).
- Spain: Seville (Water Gardens of Dome), Girona (Braavos), and Osuna (Meereen’s fighting pits) were cities and regions used for on-location filming in Spain.
- Malta: Malta was used early in the series for several scenes, including parts of King’s Landing and the Dothraki wedding.
- Scotland: Some scenes in the north of Westeros were filmed in Scotland, such as Doune Castle (Winterfell’s Courtyard) and the Isle of Skye (covering the journey of the Hound and Arya).
Which Game of Thrones Seasons Took Place in Iceland
Filming in Iceland for Game of Thrones began with Season 2 and continued through the series. It became the primary filming location for anything set “Beyond the Wall” in the north due to the breathtaking scenery that really set the scene for the fantasy series.
Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological features, perfect for creating the distinctive atmosphere and otherworldiness required to bring a place like Westeros to life. Many of the most impressive scenes from the series were filmed at iconic Icelandic locations.
Why Did They Choose to Film in Iceland?
Those responsible for choosing filming locations found Iceland to be accessible with remarkable scenery that would help build the story. While scenery was the main focus for choosing it as a filming location, Iceland also offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy as they visit the places they’ve already seen as part of the Game of Thrones series.
Visitors can go horseback riding on the same black sand beach that is featured in Game of Thrones or take a glacier tour at Svínafellsjökull. There are so many options for experiencing the beauty as seen in the series.
If you’re not interested in organized tours, you can create your own Game of Thrones itinerary. The Ring Road around the country is easy for those who want to take a self-drive tour. In the summer, you can even venture into the highlands.
Is It Possible to Visit All the Game of Thrones Locations in Iceland?
Many of the most iconic filming locations from Game of Thrones can be visited, but not all of them are easy to access for everyone. Some of the locations are more remote and can’t be reached without driving into the highlands on F-roads. These roads are unpaved, rough gravel roads through the mountains that often have unbridged river crossings to traverse.
You need an approved 4x4 to drive these roads. They are also not open year-round due to safety and weather conditions. The F-roads are generally only open between mid-June or early July into September.
Before visiting Iceland, we invite you to read through our guide to roads in Iceland to familiarize yourself with road conditions and driving requirements. You will need to rent a suitable vehicle to get to more remote locations and navigate challenging terrain. 4x4 SUVs are typically recommended for F-roads to keep you safe and ensure a smooth journey.
Our guide to rental car sizes will help you select the perfect vehicle for your trip based on your needs and the regulations for the roads you wish to drive. If you have the right vehicle, you can reach filming locations often the main routes. However, be sure to keep your eye on the weather conditions before you head out in the morning and throughout the day.
In order to plan your visit, review Iceland weather by month and season, so you can choose a time that allows you to see what you want. Weather affects accessibility of F-roads and your safety on the road.
Comprehensive List of Game of Thrones Locations in Iceland
Are you wondering which Game of Thrones episodes feature locations in Iceland? Here’s a comprehensive list of filming locations in the country:
Svínafellsjökull
Svínafellsjökull glacier is in Skaftafell National Parks. It appears in Game of Thrones, Season 2, as the snowy landscapes “Beyond the Wall.” This isn’t the glacier’s first appearance in Hollywood. It is also featured in Batman Begins. Svínafellsjökull is easily accessible along the Ring Road. You can walk up to the glacier via hiking trails or book an ice climbing guided tour.
Mýrdalsjökull
Mýrdalsjökull glacier is also featured in Season 2 of Game of Thrones. This location was used as The First of the First Men, which was a defensive position used by the First Men. This location is north of the Wall and represents the vast, frozen Northern Westeros landscapes. This glacier is located near Vik and can be accessed with a South Coast guided tour.
Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn can be seen in several episodes and was used in different ways. For instance, in Season 3, the Dimmuborgir lava field was used for Mance Rayder’s Camp. It was also a filming location for the confrontation between Samwell Tarly and Lord Commander Mormont against the White Walkers. This lake is in northeast Iceland and features stunning landscapes. It’s easily accessible by car or a guided tour from the Akureyri Port.
Grjótagjá Cave
The Grjótagjá cave is one of the most recognizable locations for Game of Thrones fans. It’s the location of the tryst between Jon Snow and Ygritte during Season 3. The filming was actually done in a studio, but the cave was the inspiration. This cave is near Lake Mývatn. However, keep in mind, it is not allowed to swim in the cave as the water temperatures are not stable.
Hverir
Hverir, another filming location in northeast Iceland, is close to the Lake Mývatn Nature Baths. This geothermal area is known for its sulfur springs, boiling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles. Hverir is featured in Game of Thrones, Season 3. The mist and bubbling mudflats were used to create the illusion of the impenetrable blizzard Samwell Tarly had to get through.
Hverir is located along the Ring Road east of Lake Mývatn. With several trails through the area, visitors can easily take in this otherworldly location.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is a popular location in its own right, but it was also featured in Game of Thrones, Season 4. It was primarily used to depict Arya and the Hound’s journey to the Eeyrie. The national park was also the location of the epic sword fight between The Hound and Brienne of Tarth. The park is about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík.
Kirkjufell Mountain
Perhaps one of the most recognizable locations, Kirkjufell Mountain is sometimes referred to as the “Game of Thrones Mountain” in Iceland. It appears in Season 7 of the series with a uniquely shaped peak that stands out in the landscape. It is often seen in the background of scenes that take place “Beyond the Wall.”
Visiting Kirkjufell is easy. It is along the main road that circles the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland. The location is about a 2 ½ hour drive from Reykjavík. It’s a picturesque area that makes it one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland.
Skógafoss Waterfall
In Season 8 of Game of Thrones, Jon Snow and Daenerys soar on dragonback and land near the mighty Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The thunderous 60-meter cascade framed their romantic moment, making it a fan-favorite filming location. Standing here, it’s easy to see why producers chose it: Skógafoss feels straight out of a fantasy realm.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara’s dramatic black sands and towering basalt columns brought the “Beyond the Wall” scenes to life in Game of Thrones. Its stark, otherworldly beauty made it an unforgettable backdrop for the North. Even without White Walkers in sight, the crashing Atlantic waves and unique geology make Reynisfjara instantly recognizable and unforgettable, so make sure to visit it during your roadtrip!
Enjoy Your Game of Thrones Journey
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones and want to enjoy an epic immersive experience into the world of Westeros, planning a self-drive trip to Iceland is the perfect option. With mesmerizing landscapes and unforgettable locations, you can bring your favorite show to life when you rent a car in Iceland and visit these iconic filming locations where the characters you know and love played out an iconic story.
