The Real Game of Thrones: 13 Epic Castles Hollywood Forgot to Film
A Complete Travel Guide to Europe’s Most Spectacular Medieval Fortresses That Could Have Graced the Seven Kingdoms
Introduction: Beyond the Wall of Hollywood
While Game of Thrones captivated millions with its stunning castle locations across Spain, Northern Ireland, and Croatia, the show’s producers overlooked some of Europe’s most spectacular medieval fortresses. These 13 extraordinary castles possess the dramatic architecture, haunting beauty, and rich histories that would have made them perfect for depicting the power struggles of Westeros. From the mist-shrouded battlements of Romania’s Carpathian Mountains to the imposing towers of Poland’s Teutonic strongholds, these forgotten gems offer modern travelers the chance to experience the real Game of Thrones.
This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through medieval Europe’s most impressive castles – places where kings once plotted conquests, where noble families rose and fell, and where the echoes of ancient battles still resonate through stone corridors. Each fortress tells a story as compelling as any Stark or Lannister saga, and many remain surprisingly accessible to today’s adventurous travelers.
Chapter 1: The Northern Strongholds
1. Malbork Castle, Poland – “The True Castle Black”
Why Hollywood Missed It: Malbork Castle (Zamek w Malborku) is a medieval fortified castle complex enclosed within thick walls in Poland. In 1309, it became the headquarters of the Teutonic Knights, a role which it fulfilled until the demise of the order in the early 15th century. This massive fortress complex would have been perfect for depicting Castle Black or even Winterfell, with its imposing brick architecture and strategic position.
The Castle’s Story: Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, Malbork is actually the world’s largest castle complex by land area. The fortress spans over 52 acres and consists of three separate castles surrounded by multiple defensive walls. The High Castle (Hochschloss) served as the residence of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, while the Middle Castle housed administrative buildings and the grand refectory where 400 knights could dine simultaneously.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Malbork, Poland (55 kilometers southeast of Gdansk)
- Best Time to Visit: May through September for optimal weather, though winter visits offer atmospheric snow-covered battlements
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €12, Students €8, Family tickets available
- Special Features: Night illumination, medieval reenactments, falconry demonstrations
Travel Tips:
- Take the train from Gdansk (1 hour) or Warsaw (2.5 hours)
- Allow a full day to explore all three castle complexes
- The audioguide includes fascinating stories about the Teutonic Knights
- Photography is permitted in most areas
- Combine with visits to nearby Gdansk’s medieval old town
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s massive walls, defensive towers, and martial atmosphere would have perfectly captured the imposing nature of the Night’s Watch stronghold. The Grand Master’s Palace, with its soaring Gothic halls, rivals any throne room shown in the series.
2. Kilkenny Castle, Ireland – “The Riverlands Seat”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While Game of Thrones filmed extensively in Northern Ireland, they overlooked this magnificent Norman stronghold in the Republic of Ireland that perfectly embodies the grandeur of a great house’s ancestral seat.
The Castle’s Story: Built in 1195 by William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, Kilkenny Castle has been continuously inhabited for over 800 years. The Butler family, Earls of Ormond, called it home for nearly six centuries, transforming it from a Norman fortress into an elegant aristocratic residence. The castle’s strategic position overlooking the River Nore made it a crucial stronghold in medieval Ireland’s power struggles.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Kilkenny City, Ireland
- Best Time to Visit: April through October for the famous gardens in bloom
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (summer), reduced winter hours
- Admission: Adults €8, Children €4
- Special Features: Restored Victorian gardens, medieval tapestries, painted ceiling gallery
Travel Tips:
- Drive from Dublin (1.5 hours) or take the train to Kilkenny station
- Explore Kilkenny’s medieval mile with multiple castle views
- The castle’s restaurant serves excellent traditional Irish fare
- Book guided tours in advance during peak season
- Evening photography captures the castle’s dramatic lighting
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s river setting, noble architecture, and long family history make it perfect for depicting houses like the Tullys of Riverrun. The Great Hall’s hammer-beam ceiling and medieval atmosphere rival any Westerosi great hall.
Chapter 2: The Mountain Fortresses
3. Hohensalzburg Fortress, Austria – “The Eyrie of the Alps”
Why Hollywood Missed It: The archbishops of Salzburg built Festung Hohensalzburg, one of the largest of Europe’s medieval castles, in the period of the Holy Roman Empire. Perched 400 feet above Salzburg, this fortress would have been ideal for depicting the Eyrie, with its seemingly impregnable position and commanding views.
The Castle’s Story: Construction began in 1077 under Archbishop Gebhard, and the fortress was continuously expanded over 600 years. Unlike many medieval castles, Hohensalzburg was never successfully besieged, making it one of the most complete medieval fortifications in Europe. The fortress served as both a military stronghold and a luxurious residence for the powerful prince-archbishops of Salzburg.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Salzburg, Austria
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer offers the best Alpine views
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €12.50, includes funicular railway
- Special Features: Medieval state rooms, torture chamber, panoramic viewing platforms
Travel Tips:
- Take the historic FestungsBahn funicular for a dramatic approach
- The fortress offers spectacular sunset views over the Alps
- Combine with Mozart’s birthplace tour in Salzburg’s old town
- Special evening concerts held in the fortress chambers
- Winter visits include Christmas market views from the ramparts
Game of Thrones Connection: The fortress’s mountain setting, defensive position, and luxurious interiors perfectly capture the Eyrie’s combination of impregnability and aristocratic refinement. The Great Hall’s Gothic architecture rivals the show’s most impressive throne rooms.
4. Predjama Castle, Slovenia – “The Most Impregnable Fortress”
Why Hollywood Missed It: Built into a 400-foot cliff face, this dramatic castle literally emerges from living rock, making it one of the most visually striking fortresses in Europe. Its unique architecture would have made it perfect for depicting an unconquerable stronghold.
The Castle’s Story: First mentioned in 1274, Predjama Castle gained fame through the legendary Erazem Lueger, a 15th-century knight who used the castle’s secret passages to withstand a year-long siege. The castle’s integration with the natural cave system behind it made it nearly impossible to capture through conventional means. Erazem supposedly received supplies through secret tunnels until he was betrayed and killed by a cannonball while using the castle’s privy.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Near Postojna, Slovenia (45 minutes from Ljubljana)
- Best Time to Visit: May through September for cave tours
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €14, includes access to castle and Postojna Cave
- Special Features: Underground passages, medieval weaponry display, torture chamber
Travel Tips:
- Combine with Postojna Cave tours for underground exploration
- Photography restrictions apply in certain areas
- Wear warm clothing for cave sections
- Special ghost tours available in October
- The nearby inn serves traditional Slovenian cuisine
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s cliff-face integration and secret passages would have perfectly depicted a fortress that’s impossible to besiege. Its dramatic silhouette rivals any CGI creation from the show.
Chapter 3: The Island Fortresses
5. Mont-Saint-Michel, France – “The Fortress on the Bay”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While technically an abbey rather than a castle, Mont-Saint-Michel’s dramatic tidal island setting and towering Gothic architecture make it one of Europe’s most visually stunning fortifications. Its isolation and grandeur would have been perfect for a major house’s seat.
The Castle’s Story: Founded in 708 AD, the abbey-fortress has weathered Viking raids, English sieges, and revolutionary upheavals. During the Hundred Years’ War, the mount became an impregnable fortress that the English never conquered. The abbey’s strategic position on the border between Normandy and Brittany made it a crucial stronghold, while its religious significance attracted pilgrims from across Europe.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Normandy, France (4 hours from Paris by car)
- Best Time to Visit: September through November for dramatic tides and fewer crowds
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €11, Children free
- Special Features: Tidal causeway, Gothic abbey church, medieval village streets
Travel Tips:
- Check tide schedules for the most dramatic approaches
- Stay overnight on the mount for sunset and sunrise photography
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing steep medieval streets
- Book restaurants in advance during peak season
- The shuttle bus operates when tides make walking dangerous
Game of Thrones Connection: The mount’s island setting, soaring architecture, and religious-military combination would have perfectly depicted a great house with both temporal and spiritual power. The abbey’s Great Hall rivals any throne room in grandeur.
6. Corvin Castle (Hunyadi Castle), Romania – “The Raven’s Fortress”
Why Hollywood Missed It: The wondrous medieval castles of Europe are full of romance and mystery, from the rugged Carreg Cennen Castle in Wales to the mysterious Hunyad Castle in Romania. This Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece in Transylvania combines fairy-tale beauty with a dark, mysterious atmosphere perfect for Game of Thrones.
The Castle’s Story: Built in the 14th century by John Hunyadi, Regent of Hungary and father of future King Matthias Corvinus, the castle served as the power base for one of Europe’s most influential families. The Hunyadis were renowned for their battles against the Ottoman Empire, and the castle’s architecture reflects both defensive necessity and Renaissance grandeur. Legend claims that Vlad the Impaler was imprisoned here for seven years.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Hunedoara, Romania (1.5 hours from Cluj-Napoca)
- Best Time to Visit: April through October for optimal weather
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €4, Students €2
- Special Features: Gothic towers, Renaissance loggia, medieval torture chamber
Travel Tips:
- Combine with visits to other Transylvanian castles
- Photography permitted throughout most of the castle
- English guided tours available by appointment
- The nearby town offers traditional Romanian cuisine
- Evening visits during summer provide atmospheric lighting
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s combination of Gothic mystery and Renaissance grandeur, plus its connection to legendary figures like Vlad the Impaler, would have made it perfect for depicting a powerful house with dark secrets. The Ravens’ Tower would literally embody a house whose sigil features ravens or crows.
Chapter 4: The Border Fortresses
7. Warwick Castle, England – “The Ultimate Medieval War Machine”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While Game of Thrones filmed at several English locations, they overlooked this perfectly preserved medieval fortress that represents the pinnacle of castle military architecture and aristocratic grandeur.
The Castle’s Story: Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and developed over centuries, Warwick Castle served as the stronghold of the Earls of Warwick, including the legendary “Kingmaker” Richard Neville. The castle played crucial roles in the Wars of the Roses, with its owners switching sides and determining the fate of English kings. The fortress combines military functionality with palatial luxury, featuring state apartments that housed royalty alongside defensive works that could withstand cannon fire.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Warwick, England (2 hours from London)
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special events throughout seasons
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Admission: Adults £25, Children £20 (online discounts available)
- Special Features: Birds of prey displays, medieval siege weapons, state apartments
Travel Tips:
- Allow a full day to experience all attractions
- Special themed events including medieval festivals and Christmas celebrations
- The castle offers dining from medieval banquets to modern cafes
- Stay at nearby historic inns for the full medieval experience
- Book falconry experiences well in advance
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s military history, political intrigue, and combination of fortress and palace make it perfect for depicting a major house’s ancestral seat. The Great Hall and state apartments rival any location used in the show.
8. Alcázar of Segovia, Spain – “The Ship of Castile”
Why Hollywood Missed It: Despite filming extensively in Spain, Game of Thrones overlooked this fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle and represents one of Europe’s most distinctive fortresses.
The Castle’s Story: Built on a rocky promontory where the Eresma and Clamores rivers meet, the Alcázar has served as a Roman fort, Arab fortress, royal palace, state prison, and military academy. The castle reached its golden age under the Catholic Monarchs, and its unique ship-like profile has made it one of Spain’s most recognizable landmarks. The fortress played a crucial role in Spanish history, serving as a favorite residence of Castilian royalty and the setting for significant political events.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Segovia, Spain (1 hour from Madrid by high-speed train)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (summer), 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €8, Students €4
- Special Features: Tower climb with panoramic views, Throne Room, armory collection
Travel Tips:
- Combine with Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and Gothic cathedral
- The tower climb requires good fitness but offers spectacular views
- Local restaurants serve the famous Segovian roast suckling pig
- Train from Madrid is faster and more comfortable than driving
- Early morning visits provide the best photography light
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s unique silhouette, royal history, and strategic position would have made it perfect for depicting a major house’s stronghold. The Throne Room’s Mudéjar architecture offers exotic beauty unlike anything shown in the series.
Chapter 5: The Coastal Strongholds
9. Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland – “The Highland Fortress”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While Game of Thrones filmed in various Scottish locations for outdoor scenes, they overlooked this iconic Highland castle that epitomizes Scottish fortress architecture and dramatic coastal settings.
The Castle’s Story: Established in the 13th century as a stronghold of Clan Mackenzie and their allies Clan Macrae, Eilean Donan occupies a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet. The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout its history, most recently restored in the early 20th century by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap. Despite its reconstructed status, the castle faithfully represents medieval Scottish fortress design and remains one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Dornie, Scotland (1 hour from Inverness)
- Best Time to Visit: April through October for access to all areas
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer), 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults £9, Children £6
- Special Features: Clan Macrae museum, restored medieval interiors, tidal island setting
Travel Tips:
- Low tide offers the most dramatic approach photography
- Combine with Isle of Skye tours via the scenic route
- Local villages offer traditional Scottish Highland cuisine
- Weather can change rapidly; bring waterproof clothing
- Sunset photography from the mainland provides spectacular shots
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s Highland setting, clan history, and tidal island position would have perfectly depicted a Northern house’s stronghold. Its dramatic silhouette against the Scottish mountains rivals any CGI backdrop.
10. Castell Coch, Wales – “The Red Castle of the Welsh Lords”
Why Hollywood Missed It: This 19th-century reconstruction of a 13th-century fortress perfectly captures the fairy-tale aesthetic that Game of Thrones often employed, while its Welsh forest setting provides the mysterious atmosphere perfect for the show’s darker storylines.
The Castle’s Story: The original castle was built in the 1270s by the Norman lord Gilbert de Clare as part of his conquest of Glamorgan. After falling into ruin, it was completely rebuilt in the 1870s by the 3rd Marquess of Bute and architect William Burges, who created a Victorian interpretation of medieval romance. While not authentically medieval, the reconstruction faithfully follows archaeological evidence and represents one of the finest examples of 19th-century castle restoration.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Tongwynlais, Wales (20 minutes from Cardiff)
- Best Time to Visit: May through September for forest walks
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer), weekends only in winter
- Admission: Adults £6, Children £4
- Special Features: Victorian medieval interiors, forest setting, conical towers
Travel Tips:
- Combine with Cardiff Castle, also restored by the same team
- Forest walks around the castle offer multiple viewing angles
- The nearby Castell Coch Inn serves traditional Welsh fare
- Photography inside requires permission but exteriors are freely photographable
- Autumn visits provide spectacular fall foliage backdrops
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s romantic towers, forest setting, and fairy-tale appearance would have been perfect for depicting a minor house’s seat or a romantic stronghold. Its red sandstone construction gives it a unique appearance among European castles.
Chapter 6: The Eastern Fortresses
11. Spiš Castle, Slovakia – “The Largest Castle Complex in Europe”
Why Hollywood Missed It: This sprawling fortress complex covers more area than any other castle in Europe, making it perfect for depicting a major regional power’s stronghold. Its dramatic hilltop position and extensive ruins create an atmosphere of ancient grandeur.
The Castle’s Story: Built in the 12th century and continuously expanded until the 18th century, Spiš Castle controlled trade routes between Poland and Hungary. The fortress complex includes the upper castle with its Romanesque palace, the middle castle with Gothic additions, and the lower castle with Renaissance modifications. The castle was abandoned in the early 18th century after a fire, leaving extensive ruins that perfectly preserve medieval and Renaissance architecture.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Spišské Podhradie, Slovakia (1.5 hours from Košice)
- Best Time to Visit: April through October for full access
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (shoulder seasons)
- Admission: Adults €8, Students €4
- Special Features: Largest castle complex in Europe, medieval tournaments, archaeological exhibitions
Travel Tips:
- Allow half a day to explore the entire complex
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for extensive grounds
- Combine with visits to nearby Spišská Kapitula medieval town
- Local restaurants serve traditional Slovak cuisine
- Photography workshops available during golden hour
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s massive scale, hilltop position, and extensive ruins would have been perfect for depicting Harrenhal or another great house’s ancestral seat. The complex could easily represent multiple locations within a single castle compound.
12. Bran Castle, Romania – “Dracula’s Fortress”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While famous as “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle’s Gothic architecture, mountain setting, and mysterious atmosphere would have made it perfect for Game of Thrones’ darker storylines, particularly for houses with sinister reputations.
The Castle’s Story: Built in 1377 by the citizens of Brașov, Bran Castle served as a customs point between Wallachia and Transylvania. While its connection to Vlad the Impaler is largely fictional, the castle’s strategic position and Gothic architecture perfectly embody the mystery and menace of Transylvanian fortresses. The castle has been transformed into a museum showcasing medieval life and the Dracula legend.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Bran, Romania (30 minutes from Brașov)
- Best Time to Visit: September through November for atmospheric fog
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer), 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter)
- Admission: Adults €8, Children €4
- Special Features: Dracula exhibition, medieval furniture, secret passages
Travel Tips:
- Visit during overcast weather for the most atmospheric experience
- Combine with Rasnov Citadel and Peles Castle tours
- Local markets sell traditional Transylvanian crafts
- Halloween visits include special themed events
- Early morning visits avoid tour bus crowds
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s Gothic atmosphere, mountain setting, and dark reputation would have been perfect for depicting a house known for cruelty or dark magic. Its secret passages and mysterious corners rival any location used for intrigue in the show.
Chapter 7: The Renaissance Fortresses
13. Chenonceau Castle, France – “The Ladies’ Castle”
Why Hollywood Missed It: While Game of Thrones featured several French locations, they missed this architectural marvel that spans the River Cher. Its unique design and history of powerful women rulers would have made it perfect for depicting houses known for strong female leadership.
The Castle’s Story: Built in 1514-1522 and extended in the 1570s, Chenonceau is unique among French châteaux for its bridge design spanning the river. Known as “Le Château des Dames” (The Ladies’ Castle), it was shaped by notable women including Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici, and Louise Dupin. During World War II, the castle’s bridge served as an escape route between Nazi-occupied and free zones of France.
Visiting Information:
- Location: Chenonceaux, France (1 hour from Tours)
- Best Time to Visit: April through October for the famous gardens
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (summer), varying winter hours
- Admission: Adults €15, Children €12
- Special Features: Bridge architecture, Renaissance gardens, wine tasting
Travel Tips:
- Early morning visits provide the best lighting for photography
- The château offers excellent wine from its own vineyards
- Combine with other Loire Valley castle tours
- Special evening illuminations during summer months
- The restaurant serves period-appropriate Renaissance cuisine
Game of Thrones Connection: The castle’s unique architecture, river setting, and history of powerful women would have made it perfect for depicting houses known for political sophistication and female leadership. Its bridge design offers visual drama unlike any location used in the series.
Planning Your Game of Thrones Castle Tour
Creating Your Itinerary
The Northern Route (2-3 weeks): Start in Scotland with Eilean Donan, continue to Ireland for Kilkenny, cross to Poland for Malbork, and finish in Austria at Hohensalzburg. This route offers the most “Northern Kingdom” atmosphere.
The Central European Route (2 weeks): Begin in Austria (Hohensalzburg), continue to Slovenia (Predjama), Romania (Corvin and Bran), and Slovakia (Spiš). This route provides the most dramatic mountain fortresses.
The Western European Route (10 days): Start in England (Warwick), continue to Wales (Castell Coch), France (Mont-Saint-Michel and Chenonceau), and Spain (Alcázar of Segovia).
Transportation Tips
By Train: Europe’s extensive rail network connects most castle locations. Consider purchasing a Eurail Pass for multi-country tours.
By Car: Rental cars provide maximum flexibility for rural castles. Many fortresses are located in scenic countryside perfect for road trips.
By Air: Budget airlines connect major cities, though ground transportation to individual castles varies.
Accommodation Recommendations
Castle Hotels: Several castles offer overnight accommodation:
- Warwick Castle has glamping pods within the grounds
- Many Loire Valley châteaux offer luxury hotel experiences
- Scottish castle hotels provide authentic Highland experiences
Historic Inns: Most castle towns feature historic inns and guesthouses that complement the medieval atmosphere.
Modern Hotels: International chains in nearby cities provide comfortable bases for day trips to more remote castles.
Photography Guidelines
Equipment: Bring wide-angle lenses for architecture, telephoto lenses for details, and tripods for low-light interior shots.
Permissions: Many castles allow photography in public areas but restrict flash photography and commercial use.
Best Times: Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) provides the most dramatic castle photography. Overcast days work well for atmospheric shots.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-August): Longest opening hours, best weather, but largest crowds and highest prices.
Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October): Mild weather, moderate crowds, beautiful seasonal colors.
Winter (November-March): Atmospheric weather, smallest crowds, reduced opening hours, some castles closed.
Budget Planning
Entry Fees: Range from €4-25 per castle, with discounts for students, seniors, and families.
Transportation: Varies widely by country and method. Rail passes and advance booking can significantly reduce costs.
Accommodation: Budget €50-200 per night depending on location and standards.
Food: Castle restaurants tend to be expensive; local towns often offer better value traditional cuisine.
Conclusion: Your Own Game of Thrones Adventure
These 13 magnificent castles represent just a fraction of Europe’s medieval heritage, but each offers something that Game of Thrones’ actual filming locations cannot: the authentic atmosphere of centuries-old stones that have witnessed real power struggles, genuine battles, and true royal dramas. While Dubrovnik’s walls and Spanish alcázars provided stunning backdrops for the show, these forgotten fortresses offer something more – the chance to walk through halls where actual history unfolded, where real kings and queens made decisions that shaped nations, and where the echoes of medieval life still resonate.
From the mist-shrouded towers of Eilean Donan to the underground passages of Predjama, from the Renaissance grandeur of Chenonceau to the Gothic mysteries of Corvin Castle, these fortresses prove that reality often surpasses fiction in its capacity to inspire wonder. Each castle tells a story as complex and compelling as any Game of Thrones plotline, filled with political intrigue, family rivalries, military conquests, and architectural marvels that have survived centuries of change.
The beauty of exploring these real-world strongholds lies not just in their visual splendor, but in their authentic connection to the medieval world that inspired George R.R. Martin’s epic saga. While the Seven Kingdoms exist only in imagination, these castles offer tangible links to the feudal societies, military technologies, and aristocratic cultures that shaped European civilization.
Whether you choose to visit one castle or embark on a comprehensive tour of all thirteen, each fortress promises its own revelations and rewards. Some may inspire you with their architectural innovation, others with their historical significance, and still others with their sheer dramatic beauty. All will provide you with experiences that no television show, however well-produced, can fully capture – the feeling of standing where history was made, of touching stones that have weathered centuries, and of seeing the world through the eyes of those who built these magnificent monuments to human ambition and creativity.
So pack your cameras, comfortable walking shoes, and sense of adventure. The real Game of Thrones awaits, written in stone across the landscapes of Europe, ready to be discovered by those bold enough to seek out the castles that Hollywood forgot to film. Your own epic journey through the medieval world begins with a single step across a castle’s ancient threshold.
Winter is coming – but with this guide, you’ll be ready to explore the real strongholds that could have defended against it.
