The epic scale of Game of Thrones, one of the most popular TV shows ever, hooked audiences worldwide with its intense battles, complex characters, and stunning locations. As a fan who’s spent days driving across Malta to explore the exact spots where memorable scenes were filmed, I can tell you this tiny island nation feels like stepping into Westeros.
The series, with its iconic opening theme music, produced over 10 years, used Malta as a key location in Season 1 to bring the fantastical story to life, especially for King’s Landing and the Khal Drogo and Daenerys Targaryen wedding. I booked a trip to Malta, expecting to chase GoT vibes, and the real-world locations left me in awe, from picturesque islands to fortifications that scream G.O.T..
Malta’s incredible surroundings, like Gozo, the sister island, and Dwejra Bay, served as breath-taking backdrops for scenes filled with winds, seas, and epic moments. The Azure Window (sadly collapsed now) was the destination for the wedding scene, and standing there, you could almost imagine the violence and rampant emotions of that shot.
I spent 3 days on a GoT-focused itinerary, hunting for spots like fortifications and gardens that made the series so immersive. While later seasons moved production to countries like Spain, Morocco, Ireland, Iceland, and Croatia, Malta’s Northern charm and attractive features make it a must-visit for anyone eager to recreate a Westerosi adventure.
For fans wanting to tour these locations, I recommend staying at AX Hotels properties because they’re close to the action and blend perfectly with Malta’s picturesque vibe.
My favorite moment was visiting Dwejra Bay, where the image of Khal Drogo and Daenerys still feels alive. The popularity of Game of Thrones has made these towns and islands a hot list for travel, and with a guide, you can stand where your favorite actors brought the story to life.
Best Game Of Thrones Malta Filming Locations
The best Game of Thrones Malta filming locations include Mdina Gate, Mesquita Square, Fort Ricasoli, Fort St. Angelo, and Gozo’s Azure Window. Fans can also explore Fort Manoel, St. Dominic’s Priory, Verdala Palace, San Anton Palace, and more sites that brought King’s Landing and Westeros to life.
Gozo, Maltese Island
The Azure Window (Now Collapsed) – Daenerys And Khal-Drogo Wedding
The Azure Window, a breathtaking 28-meter-tall limestone arch on Gozo island in the Maltese archipelago, once stood proudly against the Mediterranean Sea as the scenic backdrop for Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo’s wedding scene in Game of Thrones Season 1, Episode 1. This iconic location, known for its dramatic views and rugged coastline, was transformed with sand and a mesh-covered set to create a desert-like setting for the Dothraki consummation and declarations.
I visited this Malta spot years ago, and the surrounding area left me speechless with its raw beauty, though sadly, the arch collapsed on March 8, 2017, after a storm. While you can’t visit the Azure Window itself anymore, the location still echoes the natural majesty of Winter is Coming, making it a must-see for fans of the filming sites.
Valletta, Malta
I’ve roamed Valletta, Malta’s capital city, a UNESCO site alive with Game of Thrones locations. Fort Ricasoli, a filming spot for the Red Keep, opens to tourists. Hire a modernized dghajsa water taxi to travel in style, viewing Fort St. Angelo, the dungeon set. Eagle Street, Arya’s barter spot, echoes TV shows and movies like Gladiators, Troy, and Assassin’s Creed.
Fort Ricasoli – The King’s Gate
In Kalkara, I felt Westeros come alive at Fort Ricasoli, a 17th-century stronghold with massive bastions and intricate underground tunnels. This formidable fort, the Red Keep’s entrance in Game of Thrones, saw Ned Stark rode through its gates in Season 1, Episode 3, “Lord Snow.”
The stag’s head was digitally added, but the imposing facade is real life. Arya, a beggar boy, tried to re-enter past guards as the Hand’s daughter. Visiting this Valletta site’s sprawling fortification, a main scene feature with tortile columns, offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s strategic history.
Public access is limited by ongoing restoration, so check local guides for latest information. From Grand Harbour’s vantage points, the beautiful city walls and fame of multiple episodes, like Robert’s return, make this 17th century fort an impressive sight via train tour or harbor glimpses, despite closed gates.
Fort St. Angelo: Inside the Red Keep’s Dungeons
My visit to Fort St. Angelo, perched on a promontory in Birgu’s Grand Harbour, felt like walking through Westeros. This formidable stronghold, built in the 13th century and expanded by the Knights of St. John, served as the chilling backdrop for the Red Keep’s dungeons in Game of Thrones.
Its towering bastions and intricate passageways, including underground chambers, ooze somber ambiance. In Season 1, Episode 5, “The Wolf and Lion,” Ned Stark’s imprisonment was filmed here, with set dressing added to enhance the prison cells’ grim vibe.
Arya, chasing a cat through the dungeon’s passages, accidentally hears a conversation between Illyrio and Varys, a pivotal accidental discovery in the fictional world. The fort’s authentic structure, tied to Malta’s strategic importance 500 years ago, makes it a fascinating tourist attraction.
The fort’s history is as gripping as its Game of Thrones fame. Once a prime location for protecting the island from invaders, it even locked the famous Italian painter Michelangelo Merisi di Caravaggio for murdering a Maltese Knight.
The dungeon entrance, where Arya chases cats and Joffrey’s orders led to Ned’s last days before he was decapitated, feels hauntingly real.
Visitors can explore this important period site, with breathtaking views of Valletta from Upper Barrakka Gardens. The fort’s imposing fortifications and masks of history let you immerse in both Westeros and Malta’s past.
For up-to-date information on opening hours and ticket prices (around €10), check the Heritage Malta website and here to plan your visit. This beautiful site blends magic with Malta’s historic allure.
Eagle Street: Exploring a Street in King’s Landing
As a Game of Thrones fan strolling through Valletta, Malta’s capital city, I was enchanted by Eagle Street, a medieval gem that feels like King’s Landing. This 16th-century street, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts sand-stone buildings and Baroque architecture in a grid-like street plan.
Its historic character served as a perfect backdrop for street scenes in the show, with set dressing added during filming to bring the medieval world of Westeros to life.
Walking its accessible paths on foot, I felt transported to the city’s history, surrounded by churches and buildings that whisper Malta’s past. Exploring Eagle Street offers visitors a vivid glimpse of Valletta’s charm and its location in the iconic Game of Thrones.
Fort Manoel – The Great Sept of Baelor
Wandering near Marsamxett Harbour, I stood in awe of Fort Manoel, a star-shaped fortress built in the 18th century by the Knights of St. John. Its symmetrical design and bastions showcase stunning military architecture from that period, but as a Game of Thrones fan, I saw it as the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing.
This imposing structure was the site of Ned Stark’s shocking execution in Season 1, Episode 9, where Joffrey Baratheon ordered him decapitated as Sansa and Arya, his daughters, watched in horror at this pivotal, tragic moment. The fort’s somber connection to the series came alive with modifications during filming, yet it remains recognizable to visitors.
Though the fort is often closed to the public, you can catch a view from a nearby vantage point—here’s the spot we recommend with free parking.
I took a ferry from Sliema to Valletta to reach Manoel Island, feeling the gravity of Ned’s trial and false confession of treason to save his daughters’ lives. The set at Lazzaretto transformed this location into the grand sept, making it a beloved yet hateful scene for fans.
For a comfortable visit, stay at an Airbnb in Sliema and explore this first unforgettable death in the series, where the fort’s one-of-a-kind aura captures both history and Game of Thrones magic.
Mdina, Malta
As a Game of Thrones fan, wandering Mdina, Malta’s Silent City, felt like entering King’s Landing. This medieval gem, with sandy stone buildings, cobblestoned streets, and stone-carved lions at the city gate, was a beautiful location used in season one for Lannister scenes before filming moved to Dubrovnik, Croatia.
I strolled through plazas and the courtyard where Littlefinger’s brothel stood, reliving Catelyn and Ned Stark’s farewell and the heart-pounding fight with Jaime Lannister after King Robert’s death. The horse-pulled carriages and labyrinth of bastions echo Valletta’s nearby capital charm, offering memories of Westeros. Explore Mdina’s streets, famously known for best views, and feel the Azure Window’s magic linger in this location’s set.
Mdina Gate: Stepping Through the Gates of King’s Landing
I felt history come alive at Mdina Gate, the impressive main gate of Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city. This fortified stone structure, with its Baroque architecture and ornate details, was the set for King’s Landing’s entrance in Season 1, Episode 3, “Lord Snow.”
I stood where Catelyn arrived with Ser Rodrik Cassel to secretly investigate Bran’s fall, meeting Littlefinger near his brothel. The scene captures Catelyn’s memorable goodbye kiss to Ned Stark, their last together, as she informs him of the Lannisters’ involvement.
Filming added set dressing, but the gate’s historical significance, tied to Malta’s capital from thousands of years ago, remains unchanged.
Visitors can explore this well-preserved medieval location on foot, wandering narrow streets and historic buildings with stunning views. The Silent City’s connection to Westeros feels real as you picture guards at the gate, just like the series’ opening. Guided tours offer deeper insights into Mdina’s history, revealing its medieval times. Sir Roderick and Catelyn’s arrival to investigate the accident makes this easy-to-visit location a must for fans.
The Mdina Gate, portraying King’s Landing, blends Game of Thrones magic with Mdina’s timeless charm, offering a journey through time.
Mesquita Square: Inside Littlefinger’s Realm
I wandered Mesquita Square in Mdina, the Silent City, and felt the captivating vibe of Littlefinger’s brothel come alive. This charming square, surrounded by ancient walls and historic buildings with traditional Maltese architecture, was the backdrop for Season 1 scenes in Pjazza Mesquita, where Littlefinger’s influence and manipulation fueled dangerous alliances.
I could almost see Ned Stark and Lord Baelish discussing political scheming in Episode 5, “The Wolf and Lion,” or Catelyn reunited with Littlefinger in Episode 4, “Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things,” investigating Bran’s accident. The square’s evocative setting, with set features like the brothel’s exterior, remains unchanged, letting visitors walk in the footsteps of characters amidst a peaceful yet dramatic location.
The square also served as the Street of Steel, where Ned discovers Gendry’s parentage, and hosted the epic sword fight when Jaime Lannister confronts Ned’s men, leading to Ned’s capture and imprisonment. I felt the series’ tension, picturing Sansa’s septa and attendants facing murder or Little Finger’s scheming after Ned’s head was exposed on a spike post-Hand’s death.
Mesquita Square, a hub for information gathering, mirrors King’s Landing’s Red Keep scenes, like those at San Anton Palace Gardens in Attard. Visitors can imagine Starks’ arrival and Jaime’s actions in this quiet, historic spot, where the past and Game of Thrones blend seamlessly.
OTHER GAME OF THRONES LOCATIONS IN MALTA
St. Dominic’s Priory: Tranquil Gardens of the Red Keep
As a Game of Thrones fan, I wandered the tranquil courtyards of St. Dominic’s Priory in Rabat, Malta, and felt the historic charm of this Dominican monastery that doubled as the Red Keep’s Gardens in King’s Landing. Its traditional Maltese architecture and well-kept grounds were the setting for pivotal scenes in Season 1, Episode 7, “You Win or Die,” where Ned confronts Cersei about her children’s paternity, revealing her incestuous secret with her brother and lover, Jaime Lannister.
The court’s peaceful atmosphere, unaltered despite filming changes, made Cersei’s prophetic line—“When you play the game of thrones, you win or die”—even more tense. I could feel the drama as Ned informs her he’s aware of the Lannister truth, standing in the courtyard of this remarkable location.
Just adjacent to Mdina, the priory’s cultural significance and history shine through its lovely gardens, perfect for moments of reflection.
Visitors can visit for about €5 and wander the picturesque streets of Rabat, a town near St. Paul’s Catacombs.
I stopped at the well-known Pastizzeria Crystal Palace for delicious pastizzi, a 20-minute walk from the priory. The Convent yard, transformed for the show, holds the ambiance of King’s Landing’s tense conversations, like when Cersei’s cry echoed her father’s influence.
Verdala Palace: Birth of the Dragon Queen, Daenerys
I stood in awe at Verdala Palace, a 16th-century opulent palace located in Buskett Gardens, Malta, feeling the hum of Daenerys Targaryen’s transformative journey as the Mother of Dragons.
This grand residence of the President of Malta, with its lush surroundings and Maltese nobility charm, stood as Illyrio Mopatis’s luxurious mansion in Pentos during Season 1, Episode 1, “Winter is Coming.”
The palace’s exterior and set interior were used for scenes of Daenerys’s wedding preparations and interactions with Khal Drogo, where Viserys resided and her character was introduced. Though not open to visitors, the stunning view of its walls and architecture offers a glimpse of Targaryen power. A quick stop here lets you feel the show’s initial circumstances, blending Maltese history with Game of Thrones magic.
San Anton Palace: Within the Walls of the Red Keep
I felt the grandeur of King’s Landing come alive at San Anton Palace, a Maltese location located in Attard, the official residence of the President of Malta. This elegant setting, with its renowned beautiful gardens and impressive architecture, was filmed as the Red Keep in Season 1, Episode 3, “Lord Snow,” and Episode 8, “The Pointy End.”
I walked where Sansa was forced to look at her father’s head on a pike, a memorable scene where Joffrey showed his cruelty, and Arya reclaimed her sword Needle after discovering her family’s attendants slaughtered. The set dressing added for filming left the palace’s historical charm unchanged, letting visitors soak in its idyllic atmosphere amidst exotic fountains and peacocks roaming freely.
Open to the public for free, San Anton Palace is a popular attraction well-worth a visit. I took a hop-on-hop-off bus that stops outside the gates, a 10-minute ride from Rabat, to explore the peaceful gardens and patio.
The stables, where the Starks arrived, and the entrance with flowers and sunshine distract from the series’ grim memory of Ned’s severed head on display. Wandering the natural surroundings near Balzan, I felt the history reflecting Malta’s past, blending seamlessly with Game of Thrones’ drama. The accessible location, with parking along the road, makes it worth a stroll to experience this scene’s closed yet vivid Games connection, where Sansa’s septa faced tragedy.
Mtahleb Valley: A Dothraki Farewell
I stood in Mtahleb Valley, a Maltese location with rugged cliffs and sweeping vistas, feeling the raw emotion of Khal Drogo’s funeral pyre scene. This valley, a dramatic backdrop for Season 1, showcased Daenerys Targaryen’s emergence from the cinders with her newborn dragons, a pivotal moment in the show. The untamed beauty of Malta’s natural features, unchanged since filming, offers visitors a glimpse of the stunning scenery that amplified the Game of Thrones setting. Wandering here, I could connect with the scene’s intensity, appreciating Malta’s breathtaking scenery that made this location unforgettable.
Manikata: The Village the Dothraki Pillage
I visited Manikata, a small Maltese village with a peaceful atmosphere, and felt the brutal scene from Season 1, Episode 8, “The Pointy End,” come to life. This rural setting, with traditional rustic buildings, was cast as an Essos village pillaged by the Dothraki, showing their ruthless nature. The location’s authenticity, unchanged despite filming alterations, gave a glimpse of Malta’s quieter side of life. I pictured Daenerys trying to protect women of the tribe, her kindness leading to a tragic miscarriage and Khal Drogo’s death, with villagers enslaved to sell for money to buy ships. Though on private property with signs to tread carefully, a trek to this site lets die-hard fans feel the devastating aftermath of the attack in Manikata’s country charm.
Practical Information for Visiting Other Game of Thrones Locations in Malta
Transportation
Getting Around Malta
I found transportation options make it relatively easy to visit the island’s iconic locations mentioned in this article, like Mtarhleb Valley. Public buses, part of an extensive public bus network, cover most sites with affordable fares, though journey times can be longer. Check routes and schedules on the official Malta Public Transport website for planning. Renting a car provides flexibility, especially for remote spots, with roads in good condition—just be prepared for driving on the left. Many international car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operate in Malta; you can find them by searching online. Taxis, like the popular eCabs, are readily available and convenient for shorter distances, with reasonable taxi fares. For Gozo locations, ferries via Gozo Channel are essential to connect Malta’s main island to Gozo and Comino, making your travel to these locations a breeze.
Reaching the Locations
As a Game of Thrones fan, I found Malta’s iconic locations easily accessible with some planning. St. Dominic’s Priory in Rabat, near Mdina, is a quick public bus ride from Valletta, while San Anton Palace, located in Attard, is also reachable by public bus. For Verdala Palace in Siġġiewi, public bus works, but checking specific routes and schedules on the Malta Public Transport website is recommended. Manikata can be reached by public bus, though Mtarfa Valley—a more remote spot—makes renting a car the most convenient option, as public transport options may be limited. These accessible sites let you explore Malta’s Game of Thrones magic with ease.
Additional Tips for Transportation
As a Game of Thrones fan chasing Malta’s filming spots, I learned public transport is a good way to get around, especially in busy Valletta where parking can be challenging. Consider purchasing a multi-day bus pass from the Malta Public Transport website if you plan to use public buses frequently—it’s a money-saver! For taxis, fares are metered, but I always make it a good idea to confirm the fare or use a taxi app like eCabs to get an estimate. This makes visiting the city and other locations smooth and stress-free.
Tours
Game of Thrones Tours
I loved joining specialized tours in Malta that brought the show’s filming locations to life, like Mdina, Fort Ricasoli, and Fort Manoel. These tours, run by tour operators, offer insights into the production and history of the sites, blending key locations with themed activities. Some guides even wear Game of Thrones costumes, making the visit feel magical! Tours range from half-day to full-day excursions, using walking, bus transportation, or a combination of both. I recommend you read reviews and compare prices before booking—you can explore options on GetYourGuide to find the perfect tour for a memorable adventure across Malta’s iconic locations.
Local Tours
As a Game of Thrones fan, I loved exploring Malta through guided tours that blend the show’s magic with the history and culture of Valletta and Mdina. These local tours, including walking tours, boat tours, and food tours, are popular options for experiencing Malta’s historical sites. A Game of Thrones tour brings you to iconic locations, with guides sharing fascinating stories about the show and Malta’s past. To find the specific types of tours, I recommend a quick search online or checking the Malta Tourism Authority website, while other popular options for experiencing Malta include unique adventures that make every tour unforgettable.
Accommodations
As a Game of Thrones fan exploring Malta, I loved finding places to stay in proximity to the filming locations like Mdina and Valletta. Considering where to stay, I looked at other factors like easy access to buses or ferries to reach these iconic spots.
Staying in Valletta
As a Game of Thrones fan, I found staying in Valletta, Malta’s capital city, a convenient base for exploring filming locations like Fort Ricasoli and Eagle Street. Centrally located, the city center offers many accommodation options, from boutique hotels to guesthouses and modern apartments, catering to various budgets and preferences. With easy access to transportation links, you can reach attractions and enjoy restaurants or scenic views of the Grand Harbour near the waterfront, making your Valletta adventure a perfect blend of Game of Thrones magic and Malta’s charm.
Staying in Mdina/Rabat
Staying in Mdina or Rabat gave me an immersive experience in Malta’s historic cities, bursting with medieval charm. These quieter areas offer a chance to soak up the Game of Thrones vibe near filming spots like Mdina’s gates. I loved the accommodation options, from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses and bed and breakfasts with traditional Maltese architecture, blending comfort with the magic of Malta’s past. Consider these spots for a cozy stay that feels like stepping into Westeros.
Conclusion
Hiking near Las Vegas feels like stepping into the magic of Game of Thrones, with stunning desert views that rival Malta’s iconic filming locations and the rugged trails you’d find in Best Day Hikes in Grand Marais.
With smart planning, I learned you can visit the majority of these paths in just a week, making it perfect for a spring break trip. From my own treks, I suggest hiring a car for easier, more accessible exploring, much like public tourist buses near Qawra Palace Resort & Spa as a central base in Malta.
You can group your hikes into Group 1 for Red Rock Canyon, like Mdina Gate or Mesquita Square; Group 2 for Valley of Fire, as grand as San Anton Palace Gardens or Verdala Palace in Attard; Group 3 for Black Canyon, mirroring Fort Ricasoli, Fort Manoel, Fort St. Angelo, or Valletta with harbor tours; Group 4 for Goldstrike Hot Springs, as breathtaking as Azure Window or Mtaħleb Cliffs in Gozo; and Group 5 for a short side trip to rural Calico Basin, like Manikata. These nearby spots let you live the adventure in a few days with activities that feel like a fantasy epic.
Faq
Why did they stop filming Game of Thrones in Malta?
When I explored Malta, I heard many news sources believe the shooting of Daenerys and Khal Drogo’s wedding damaged the Azure Window on Gozo Island, causing Game of Thrones to stop filming there after Season 1. But HBO refused this claim, saying the natural collapse of the Azure Window had no role in changing locations. Instead, they moved to other countries for practical reasons, leaving Malta’s epic sites as cherished Season 1 memories.
Which scenes of Game of Thrones were filmed in Malta?
Visiting Malta as a Game of Thrones fan felt like walking through Westeros! Scenes were filmed across Mdina Gate for Catelyn’s arrival in “Lord Snow” (Season 1, Episode 3), Mesquita Square in Mdina for Littlefinger’s brothel in “The Wolf and the Lion” (Season 1, Episode 5), and St. Dominic’s Priory in Rabat for Red Keep moments. Fort Ricasoli in Birgu and Fort Manoel set King’s Landing’s gates and sept, while San Anton Palace & Gardens and Mtaħleb Cliffs captured Manikata’s Dothraki drama, making Malta a must-see.
What is Mdina in Game of Thrones?
Strolling through Mdina, I was transported to King’s Landing, the fictional capital city in HBO’s Game of Thrones first season. This town’s baroque gate shines in “Lord Snow” (first season, episode 3), marking Catelyn’s entrance, while Mesquita Square was the shooting location for Littlefinger’s brothel, bringing the series’ intrigue to life. Mdina’s ancient walls make it a perfect filming location for Westeros’ heart, blending history with fantasy.
Is there a Game of Thrones tour in Malta?
My Game of Thrones tour in Malta was unforgettable! This advertised tour lets you visit GOT locations across the main island, guided by a knowledgeable guide who’s worked behind and in front of the camera in Malta’s film industry. You’ll see iconic spots like Mdina and learn Maltese history, making it a fun way to explore Malta’s locations with insider stories from the show.
