The hit TV series Game of Thrones became a global phenomenon not only because of its complex characters and shocking plot twists, but also due to its breathtaking filming locations. While Westeros spans a fictional world, many of its most dramatic landscapes are very real – and several of them are in Iceland.
Iceland’s raw nature, volcanic terrain, glaciers, lava fields, and dramatic contrasts made it a perfect stand-in for the harsh lands beyond the Wall and key locations in the Vale of Arryn. According to production stories, one of the producers was inspired after visiting Gullfoss waterfall, which helped solidify Iceland as a filming destination.
Be warned: this guide contains minor spoilers if you are not fully caught up on the series.
Why Was Iceland Chosen for Game of Thrones?
Iceland offers something few countries can: untouched landscapes that already look cinematic without heavy set design. Snow-covered lava fields, black sand deserts, glaciers, and steaming geothermal areas created the ideal backdrop for the wild and dangerous regions of Westeros.
Key reasons Iceland was chosen include:
- Extreme and varied landscapes in a small geographic area
- Easy access to glaciers, caves, and volcanic terrain
- Natural setting that suit “north of the Wall” scenes
- Long daylight hours in summer for filming
While some scenes were enhanced with CGI, many locations look instantly recognizable in real life.
Þingvellir National Park – The Bloody Gate and the Vale of Arryn
Þingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most important historical and geological sites, and it also played a major role in Game of Thrones.
In the series, Þingvellir was used as the setting for the Bloody Gate, the entrance to the Eyrie in the Vale of Arryn. Although the towering castle itself created with CGI, the dramatic canyon and rocky terrain are very real. This location appears during:
- The journey of Petyr Baelish and Sansa Stark
- Later scenes featuring Arya Stark and The Hound
Þingvellir is also where Alþingi, Iceland’s parliament, was founded in 930 AD. Geologically, it sits on a rift valley formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates – the very rift features in the show.
Grjótagjá Cave – Jon Snow and Ygritte’s Cave Scene
Grjótagjá is one of the most famous Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland.
Located near Lake Mývatn in North Iceland., this lava cave inspired the intimate cave scene between Jon Snow and Ygritte. While the actual scene was filmed in a studio due to water temperatures, the cave itself is real and can be visited today.
Important notes for visitors:
- Bathing is not allowed due to unstable water temperatures
- The cave is small and fragile
- Access may be limited depending on conditions
Despite this, it remains one of the most iconic Icelandic filming locations from the series.
North of the Wall – Iceland’s Winter Landscapes
Iceland became the primary filming location for scenes set north of the Wall, representing the wild and frozen lands beyond the Night’s Watch.
Several regions were used, including
- Lava fields covered in snow
- Glaciers and ice formations
- Remote highland areas
These locations helped define the harsh atmosphere surrounding the White Walkers and the Free Folk, making Icelandic a crucial part of the snow’s visual identity.
Vatnajökull Glacier and Skaftafell – Later Seasons
Vatnajökull Glacier and Skaftafell were used extensively in later seasons
Cast and crew were spotted in these areas while filming scenes for the final season, including Season 8. Vatnajökull’s vast ice caps and Skaftafell’s dramatic valleys provided perfect settings for large-scale, icy storylines.
These areas are now popular stops for:
- Glacier hiking
- Ice cave tours (winter only)
- Photography and sightseeing
Can You Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Iceland?
Yes, most Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland are accessible to visitors, especially during summer.
Key tips for visiting:
- Some locations look different due to CGI used in the show
- Weather and road conditions can limit access, especially in winter
- Many sites are part of protected national parks
A self-drive trip is one of the best ways to explore these locations, as many are spread across different regions of the country.
Best Time to Visit Game of Thrones Locations in Iceland
- Summer (June-August): Easier access, long daylight hours, greener landscapes
- Winter (October-March): Snow-covered scenery similar to the show, but limited access and challenging driving conditions.
Winter offers the most “north of the Wall” feel, but summer is more practical for visiting multiple locations safely.
FAQ: Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Iceland
- Was all of Game of Thrones filmed in Iceland?
No. Iceland was mainly used for scenes north of the Wall and parts of the Vale of Arryn. Other filming locations include Northern Ireland, Croatia, Spain and Morocco.
- Is Þingvellir National Park exactly the same as in the show?
No. entirely. The landscape is real, but structures like the Eyrie and Bloddy Gate were heavily enhanced with CGI.
- Can you bathe in Grjótagjá Cave?
No. Bathing is prohibited due to dangerous and unpredictable water temperatures.
- Do I need a 4×4 to visit Game of Thrones locations in Iceland?
For most locations in summer, a standard car is sufficient. In winter of when visiting remote areas, a 4×4 is strongly recommended.
- Are there guided Game of Thrones tours in Iceland?
Yes, several tour operators offer guided tours focusing on filming locations, especially around Þingvellir and the south coast.
Winter in Coming – Are You Ready to Explore Iceland?
From the dramatic rift valleys of Þingvellir to the icy landscapes that brought the world north of the Wall to life, Iceland played a key role in shaping the visual identity of Game of Thrones. Visiting these filming locations offers more than just fan service – it is a chance to experience some of Iceland’s most powerful and unforgettable landscapes firsthand.
To explore these locations at your own pace, renting a car is one of the easiest and most flexible options. With Firefly Iceland, you can plan your own self-drive route, stop where you want, and reach iconic filming spots without relying on flexed tour schedules. Whether you are chasing dramatic scenery, winter landscapes, or simply want to see Westeros come to life, a rental car gives you the freedom to do in your way.
Winter is coming. The road is waiting.
