Split: City Walking Tour w/ Game of Thrones Locations

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, chances are you’ve heard about Split’s stunning Roman architecture and its role as a filming backdrop for Game of Thrones. While there are many ways to explore this vibrant city, a guided walking tour that combines history with pop culture might just be the most fun and enriching way to spend 1.5 hours. This particular tour, offered by HI-story HiSTORY, scores high on reviews, with a perfect 5-star rating from over 150 travelers, and that’s no small feat.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life, blending historical facts with behind-the-scenes tales of film sets. Second, the stop at the Iron Throne replica is a definite crowd-pleaser, especially for Game of Thrones fans eager to see where their favorite scenes were shot. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s focus on Game of Thrones might overshadow some deeper dive into Split’s broader history—something true history buffs might want to supplement with additional exploration.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Fans of the TV series will find the filming locations fascinating, while history lovers will appreciate the insights into Roman and medieval Split. It’s also a good choice for those with limited time but who want a taste of everything the city has to offer in a fun, engaging format.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling ability.
• Balanced Experience: Combines historical insights with Game of Thrones filming locations.
• Includes Entry Tickets: Access to Diocletian’s Palace basements and the Game of Thrones Museum.
• Interactive Elements: Visit the Iron Throne and watch scenes filmed in Split.
• Flexible and Accessible: Tours are available in English, with options for private groups and wheelchair access.
• Good Value: The tour encompasses multiple sites, entertainment, and educational content for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Split’s Historic Heart and Hollywood Magic

From the moment we look at the itinerary, it’s clear this tour offers a comprehensive look at Split’s most iconic sights, all wrapped into a manageable 1.5-hour stroll. Starting from the Golden Gate, you’ll join a small group that’s perfect for conversation and personalized attention. The guide, holding a black umbrella for easy spotting, kicks off with stories about the city’s 2000-year history, setting the tone for an experience that’s as informative as it is lively.

The Roman Roots and Diocletian’s Palace

The first major stop is Diocletian’s Palace, an awe-inspiring relic of Roman engineering. Walking through its peristyle and vestibule, you’ll get a sense of how this sprawling structure served as a fortress, a palace, and a bustling city within a city. The guide doesn’t just rattle off facts; they breathe life into stories about the palace’s construction, its role in Christian persecution, and its ongoing significance.

You’ll also explore the substructures of the palace—those hidden passages and chambers that hold secrets from centuries past. It’s a chance for travelers to see the layers of history beneath the modern streets and to understand how this UNESCO World Heritage site has evolved over 1,700 years.

The Golden Gate, Jupiter’s Temple, and More

Next, passing through the Golden Gate, you’ll stand where ancient Romans once entered, and learn why this arch was so strategically and symbolically significant. The Temple of Jupiter offers a glimpse into the city’s religious history, and the Peristil, with its grand columns, is a favorite photo spot and a natural gathering point.

The guide’s storytelling is peppered with fun facts—like how the Venetians once paid for the city’s preservation or how a headless Sphinx guards the entrance of Jupiter’s temple. These details make the experience memorable and give a richer context beyond just sightseeing.

The Split City Museum and Local Squares

A quick visit to the Split City Museum provides a deeper understanding of the city’s past, with artifacts and exhibits that complement the walking route. The nearby People’s Square and Fruit Square serve as lively hubs, offering a taste of local life and a chance to soak in the bustling atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Game of Thrones Connection

The highlight for many is the visit to the Iron Throne, where you can sit on the iconic seat—your photo opportunity. The tour includes entry to the Game of Thrones Museum, which is packed with filming memorabilia, costumes, and behind-the-scenes insights. The guide shows clips from seasons 4 and 5, matching scenes with their real-world locations, making it clear how effectively Split’s architecture doubled for the city of Meereen.

Why the Game of Thrones Locations Matter

Walking through these filming sites, we loved the way the guide tied the scenery into the show’s narrative—explaining how Daenerys’s story unfolded on these ancient streets. Several reviews praised the guide’s ability to turn what could be just a sightseeing walk into a lively storytelling session, often with humor and enthusiasm. One reviewer even shared that the guide made them reenact scenes, adding a playful element to the tour.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is designed for convenience and flexibility. It’s approximately 1.5 hours long, a perfect timeframe for a quick yet thorough exploration. The starting point is easy to find, just up the stairs from the Golden Gate, marked by a statue of Gregory of Nin and a guide holding a black umbrella. Ending back at the same spot means you can easily continue your day without worry.

Included in the price are entry tickets to the Diocletian’s Palace basements, the Game of Thrones Museum, and a photo opportunity sitting on the Iron Throne. For fans, this combination offers excellent value; you get access to significant sites without additional hassle or expense.

The tour is also wheelchair accessible and can be booked as a private group, making it suitable for families, seniors, or travelers with mobility needs. The optional pickup from your hotel or cruise port adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the city.

Pricing-wise, considering the number of sites, the entertainment, and the included tickets, the tour provides notable value. It’s not just about seeing sights; it’s about engaging with them—learning, laughing, and creating memorable moments.

What We Loved and What to Keep in Mind

Reviewers consistently praise the expertise and energy of the guides, particularly highlighting Marko and Nina. Their engaging storytelling, humor, and ability to connect history with pop culture make the tour lively and memorable. Multiple reviews mention how guides share personal tips on restaurants and other activities, which adds to the overall value.

Travelers appreciated entering all the spots, which can be a rare benefit on short city tours. The video clips and photos help to visualize scenes from Game of Thrones, making the locations more meaningful.

Some travelers note that the tour’s focus on the TV series might overshadow a deeper focus on the broader history of Split. If your primary interest is Roman or medieval history, you might want to supplement this experience with other tours or explorations.

In terms of timing, the tour’s duration is just right for a quick overview, leaving room for further sightseeing or enjoying Split’s cafes and streets afterward. The optional reservation system, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, offers flexibility and peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for Game of Thrones fans eager to see where their favorite scenes were shot, combined with a solid introduction to Split’s historic sites. It suits history enthusiasts who enjoy storytelling and visual reenactments, as well as families looking for a fun, interactive outing.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s highlights, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for luxury travelers or cruise passengers, thanks to its optional pickup and private group options. Keep in mind that the focus is balanced between history and TV filming locations, so if you’re solely interested in ancient history or architecture, you might prefer a dedicated historical tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 1.5 hours (105 minutes), with availability depending on the day and season.

What is included in the price? Tickets to Diocletian’s Palace basements, the Game of Thrones Museum, and a photo on the Iron Throne are included.

Can I join the tour directly at the meeting point? Yes, the starting point is at the Golden Gate, where the guide will be waiting with a black umbrella.

Is the tour available in languages other than English? The tour is offered in English; private groups might have options for other languages.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring? It’s a good idea to bring water, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera for photos.

Is there an option for a private tour? Yes, private groups are available for a more personalized experience.

For anyone visiting Split, this tour offers a lively, engaging way to see the city’s most iconic sites and filming locations. It’s a well-balanced experience combining history, entertainment, and personal interaction. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling skills are frequently praised, making it more than just a walk around the old town—it becomes a fun narrative you’ll remember.

While it’s especially suited for Game of Thrones fans, the added historical insights make it worthwhile for anyone interested in understanding Split’s unique past. The inclusion of exclusive access to key sites, along with a friendly, approachable guide, delivers excellent value and genuine fun.

In short, this tour is a great choice for travelers who want a snapshot of Split’s ancient grandeur, spiced up with some cinematic magic—a perfect way to make your Croatian visit truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: