Iceland Destinations

Complete Guide to Game of Thrones Iceland Locations: Where to Visit & When

Experience the magic of the Seven Kingdoms in real life by exploring the breathtaking Game of Thrones Iceland locations. From the frozen landscapes beyond the Wall to the dramatic battlegrounds of Westeros, Iceland's raw and untamed beauty served as the perfect backdrop for HBO's epic fantasy series. Our comprehensive guide takes you through seven iconic filming locations, including the haunting Reynisfjara black sand beach, the majestic Kirkjufell (the Arrowhead Mountain), and the mystical Grjótagjá Cave where Jon Snow and Ygritte's love story unfolded.

Since 2011, Iceland's dramatic landscapes have captivated millions of Game of Thrones fans worldwide. These filming locations aren't just movie sets – they're natural wonders that showcase Iceland's geological marvels, from ancient glaciers and volcanic formations to thundering waterfalls and mysterious caves. Whether you're planning your visit during the midnight sun of summer or the Northern Lights of winter, this guide provides essential information about each location, including the best times to visit, photography tips, and practical travel advice.

The timing of your visit can dramatically affect your experience at these filming locations. During the summer months (June through August), you'll benefit from 24 hours of daylight, which provides ample time for exploration. The temperatures are milder, typically ranging from 8-15°C (46-59°F). However, this is also peak tourist season, meaning higher prices and more crowded locations. Some sites might lose their "beyond the Wall" atmosphere without snow cover.

Winter visits (November through March) offer a more authentic "North of the Wall" experience, though you'll need to contend with limited daylight of only 4-6 hours. The weather is challenging, with temperatures ranging from -10 to 4°C (14-39°F), but you'll have the opportunity to view the Northern Lights and encounter fewer tourists. Some locations may be inaccessible during this time due to weather conditions.

The shoulder seasons (September-October and April-May) often provide the best balance, offering moderate temperatures, mixed weather conditions, better availability, reasonable daylight hours, and access to most locations.

Must-Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations

1. Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park

Thingvellir National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site, featured as the path to the Eyrie and the location of Brienne and the Hound's battle, lies just 45 minutes from Reykjavík. As part of the Golden Circle route, it showcases the dramatic continental divide between North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and served as the ancient Viking parliament location. The park remains accessible year-round, with the best photography opportunities during golden hour. While parking requires a fee, guided tours are readily available from Reykjavík. Read more about Thingvellir National Park

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2. Svínafellsjökull Glacier

The dramatic scenes beyond the Wall and White Walker territories came to life at Svínafellsjökull Glacier, part of Vatnajökull National Park. Located four hours from Reykjavík, this location features Europe's largest glacier and spectacular ice formations. Crystal ice caves become accessible during winter months. Safety is paramount here – visitors should never explore without a certified guide. The glacier requires special equipment and weather-dependent access, with ice cave visits best scheduled between November and March.

Svínafellsjökull Glacier

3. Grjótagjá Cave

The memorable love scene between Jon and Ygritte in Season 3 was filmed in this natural geothermal cave near Lake Mývatn. This historic hideout of Icelandic outlaws features naturally heated water and stunning rock formations. While swimming is no longer permitted due to unpredictable water temperatures, visitors can still explore the cave's interior. The space is limited and can be slippery, so careful navigation is essential. Summer months typically offer the best visiting conditions, and convenient parking is available nearby.

Grjótagjá Cave

4. Dimmuborgir

Mance Rayder's wildling camp found its home in Dimmuborgir, whose name translates to "Dark Castles" in Icelandic. This dramatic lava field near Lake Mývatn features unique volcanic rock formations and well-maintained walking paths. Visitors can access this site throughout the year without an entrance fee, and the area includes convenient facilities including a restaurant. Early morning or late evening visits provide the most striking photography opportunities.

Dimmuborgir

5. Kirkjufell Mountain

Known as the Arrowhead Mountain in the Hound's vision, Kirkjufell stands as Iceland's most photographed mountain. Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, roughly 2.5 hours from Reykjavík, this distinctive arrow-shaped mountain offers spectacular views alongside its adjacent waterfall. Photographers often capture their best shots during sunset or sunrise, and winter visitors might catch the Northern Lights dancing above the peak. The site provides ample parking and attracts numerous photography tours.

Kirkjufell

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6. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

The haunting beauty of Eastwatch-by-the-Sea came to life at Reynisfjara, Iceland's most famous black sand beach. Located near the village of Vík, approximately two and a half hours from Reykjavík, this dramatic coastline served as a backdrop for several crucial scenes in the later seasons of Game of Thrones. The beach's distinctive black sand, created by volcanic activity, is complemented by towering basalt columns and sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar, which, according to local folklore, are trolls turned to stone by the morning sun.

The beach played a particularly memorable role in Season 7, where it represented the shores near Eastwatch-by-the-Sea, the easternmost castle along the Wall. Its dramatic landscape, with powerful waves crashing against volcanic rocks, perfectly captured the harsh beauty of George R.R. Martin's world. The location is accessible year-round, though visitors should exercise extreme caution due to notorious sneaker waves and strong currents. Winter visits offer a particularly atmospheric experience, with fewer tourists and the possibility of snow contrasting dramatically with the black sand.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration here, particularly during the golden hours when the low sun creates striking shadows across the basalt formations. The beach faces south, making it an excellent location for both sunrise and sunset shots. During summer months, the midnight sun provides unique lighting conditions for photography, while winter visitors might catch the Northern Lights dancing above the sea stacks.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

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7. Þórufoss (Thorufoss)

Þórufoss Waterfall gained international recognition after appearing in Season 4 of Game of Thrones, most notably in a scene where one of Daenerys's dragons catches a goat. Located in Mosfellsdalur Valley, about 30 minutes northeast of Reykjavík, this 18-meter high waterfall offers a more secluded experience compared to Iceland's more famous falls. The waterfall's relatively hidden location helps maintain its pristine condition and allows visitors to experience the raw beauty that attracted the show's location scouts.

The approach to Þórufoss involves a short drive down a gravel road, making it accessible yet maintaining an air of discovery for visitors. The waterfall flows over dark volcanic rocks, creating a powerful cascade that's particularly impressive during the spring melt. During winter months, parts of the waterfall often freeze, creating ethereal ice formations that echo the frozen landscapes north of the Wall.

While the waterfall itself is impressive, the surrounding landscape offers context for why this location was chosen for filming. The rugged terrain and sparse vegetation create an atmosphere that perfectly matches the untamed nature of Westeros. Visitors can view the waterfall from several angles, with the most dramatic views available from the cliff edge. However, caution is necessary, especially during wet or icy conditions, as the rocks can become extremely slippery.

Photography at Þórufoss is best during overcast days when the light is even, helping to capture the detail in both the water and the surrounding rocks. The location is accessible year-round, though winter visits may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to road conditions. Early morning visits often provide the best experience, as the location can become busy during peak tourist hours, especially after its Game of Thrones fame.

Thorufoss

Conclusion

Iceland's role in Game of Thrones has cemented its place in television history, offering fans a unique opportunity to step into the world of Westeros. Whether you're a devoted fan of the series or simply someone who appreciates spectacular landscapes, these locations provide an unforgettable experience. With proper planning and respect for the environment, visitors can enjoy these magnificent locations while preserving them for future generations.

Remember that weather conditions can change rapidly in Iceland, and some locations may be challenging to access. Always prioritize safety and consider guided tours for the more remote or dangerous locations. By following local guidelines and practicing responsible tourism, you can fully immerse yourself in the real-world locations that helped bring Game of Thrones to life.

About the Author

Meet Gitana, the adventurous soul behind Tripsiniceland! She has been living in Iceland since 2022, Gitana is passionate about helping travelers discover the best of this stunning country. Through her blog, she shares expert tips and insider advice to ensure you have an unforgettable Icelandic adventure. Whether you're dreaming of glaciers, volcanoes, or hidden gems, Gitana’s goal is to make your Iceland experience truly extraordinary!

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