Split is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting cities we’ve ever visited. It’s no wonder they chose the UNESCO World Heritage site, Diocletian’s Palace—the historic core of Split—as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The Roman and medieval atmosphere is everywhere you look. Here are the best spots to explore Game of Thrones sites in and around Split, and where you can delve into its rich history.
Emperor Diocletian chose this spot for his retirement home over 2,300 years ago, but the reasons remain a mystery. We don’t know what he thought when he watched the sun set into the Dalmatian ocean, but the legacy he left behind is stunning. The city feels like an open-air museum that’s also a bustling, lively place for tourists. You can wander the maze-like streets and feel safe, knowing the area is contained. It’s like a risk-free adventure—you never know what the next narrow alleyway will reveal, but there’s no chance of truly getting lost.
It’s easy to see why this captivating city was chosen as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Walking the streets that stood in for Meereen or exploring the Diocletian Palace basements that became Daenerys’ throne room is thrilling. If you’re interested in more Game of Thrones locations, the Central Dalmatian Tourist board has put together a guide. For dedicated fans, we also recommend visiting Klis Fortress, which doubled as Meereen, and heading further south to experience the essence of King’s Landing in Dubrovnik.
Top 5 Game of Thrones sites in Split:
1. The narrow streets of Split – seen as Meereen’s streets in Season 5.
2. Diocletian’s Palace basement – where Daenerys kept her dragons in Season 4.
3. Golden Gate, North entrance of Diocletian’s Palace – featured in Season 5.
4. Klis Fortress – served as Meereen in Season 4.
5. Kaštel Gomilica – doubled as Braavos in Season 5.
If you have extra time in Split, consider visiting the nearby UNESCO site of Trogir or taking a short drive to charming Šibenik, the first Croatian city, to see the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral.
Split offers a unique mix of history, vibrant culture, an authentic atmosphere, street music, and a nearby beach. It’s a rare gem, comparable only to the Barri Gothic in Barcelona, although Split’s history predates it by about 1,500 years! You might come to Split because of its role in a famous TV series, but you’ll leave amazed by its real history, heritage, and natural beauty.
Want to know more about Split? Check out the best sights and experiences in Jocelyn Garwood’s article, “Savouring Split.”
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