The Perfect Destination for Game of Thrones Fans: Cáceres, Spain

Looking for a great reason to start planning your next adventure? This year, consider traveling to Cáceres in Spain.

You may not have heard of Cáceres, but you’ve most likely seen it on screen. The picturesque Spanish city serves as the backdrop for many beloved films and series—most notably HBO’s Game of Thrones and the new prequel series House of the Dragon.

While Dubrovnik became a tourism hotspot thanks to its starring role as King’s Landing, the series eventually moved filming to Cáceres for its seventh and final season. Furthermore, it returns as the fictional Westerosi capital in the first season of House of the Dragon, with additional filming set to take place this year. To celebrate, the city will host the second annual City of Dragons festival this autumn.

Exploring the Historic Center of Cáceres

The historic center of Cáceres shows nearly no trace of the 21st century; the Gothic and Renaissance streets, towers, palaces, and walls have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The sets for medieval-era-inspired King’s Landing barely need any adjustments except when production requires the inclusion of a dragon or two.

Cáceres has ancient origins dating back to prehistoric settlements; the city was founded in the 1st century BC by the Romans and later came under Moorish rule in the 8th century. As a melting pot of cultures and religions, Cáceres showcases signs of its rich Jewish and Muslim heritage, harmoniously blending with its Catholic history.

It’s impossible not to recognize the characteristic stone and granite buildings from your television screen. Moreover, wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town often leads to unexpected discoveries of filming locations. Game of Thrones gave Cáceres significant screen time in Season 7, Episode 3, when Euron Greyjoy parades victoriously through King’s Landing, riding from the real-life Plaza de Santa Maria to Arco de la Estrella.

Notable Filming Locations

The streets of Cáceres are also featured in key scenes of House of the Dragon. One interesting scene involves Daemon and Rhaenyra’s late-night excursion (Season 1, Episode 4). Additionally, the pivotal fight outside the Sept was filmed in Plaza de San Jorge, while Iglesia de San Francisco Javier served as King’s Landing’s main center of worship.

Look for a small bronze statue in an alcove within the church’s front wall, depicting Saint George conquering a dragon—an intriguing connection to these legendary creatures.

The City of Dragons Festival

In October 2022, the town hall of Cáceres launched an event to celebrate the city’s strong ties with House of the Dragon. The inaugural City of Dragons coincided with the weekend of the show’s finale; now, it will become an annual tradition, returning between October and November 2023 with events such as:

• Conferences with show collaborators and experts on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire
• Sword fighting classes
• Medieval jousts
• Concerts and cosplay contests
• Themed dinners and parades
• Escape rooms

Visitors can go on guided tours of all filming locations year-round, extending beyond the city center.

In the broader province of Cáceres, fans can relive more Game of Thrones memories at various locations. The castle in Trujillo, a mere half-hour drive away, posed as Casterly Rock in Season 7, Episode 3, while the natural park of Los Barruecos is where Daenerys fought the Lannister army in Season 7, Episode 4.

Delights of Cáceres

Where to Eat

The food scene in Cáceres reflects its rich history, with a multicultural culinary landscape. Charcuteries and cheeses are highlights, so don’t miss out on jamon iberico and torta del casar, not to mention the classic Spanish tapas. For lunch or dinner, try BOS Taperia Ristorante hidden behind Plaza Mayor, or visit Jardín de los Golfines for a unique indoor garden dining experience.

Where to Drink

Nights in Cáceres are lively as most cafes transform into well-stocked bars. Enjoy authentic Spanish vino tinto, sangria, and cerveza. Bar Tapería La Majá is a popular choice for affordable drinks and casual bites. The vibrant streets of Pizarro, Santa Teresa, Niza, and Dr. Fleming are great spots to enjoy a drink and live music.

Where to Stay

Travelers without a car will find an abundance of charming apartments in the Old Town. Apartamentos El Patio Santa Clara is ideal for both long and short-term stays, especially for groups. Solo travelers or couples might prefer NH Collection Palacio de Oquendo, a four-star hotel located in a historic 16th-century building, offering a truly immersive experience.

In conclusion, Cáceres stands out as a must-visit destination for fans of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. With its historic charm, stunning architecture, varied culinary options, and vibrant festivals, visitors are sure to enjoy a memorable trip.