6 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Iceland You Can Visit
If you’re a massive Game of Thrones like me, you’ll want to plan a trip to Iceland, just to visit some of the iconic filming locations. Game of Thrones is known for its incredible scenery, backgrounds and harsh conditions, like you see when the characters are “North of the Wall.” I’ve visited several Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland, and standing there in real life feels like stepping straight into the show and even “beyond the Wall.”
Here are six iconic Game of Thrones locations in Iceland you can actually visit, plus exactly how they were used in the series and how to get there yourself.
1. Arrowhead Mountain (Kirkjufell)
Location: Kirkjufell, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Seen in: Season 7 – Beyond the Wall
Let’s start with the most famous one. Arrowhead Mountain, known locally as Kirkjufell, is hands down one of the most recognizable Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland.
In the show, this dramatic, arrow-shaped peak appears north of the Wall, when Jon Snow and his crew head out on their mission to capture a wight. It’s crazy to think that you’re actually right there, standing where they filmed.
This mountain also appears in the background of the Children of the Forest Scene where they are shown creating the first ever White Walker.
How to visit Kirkjufell
- About 2 hours from Reykjavík by car
- Easy stop on a Snæfellsnes Peninsula road trip
- Link to that tour HERE – This was my favorite tour in Iceland. The baron landscape of the peninsular is absolutely gorgeous.
- Best views are right by Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall
2. Thingvellir National Park
Location: Golden Circle
Seen in: Season 4 – The Hound vs. Brienne fight
Thingvellir National Park is a beautiful National Park with unique landscapes and scenery. It’s also where one of the most iconic and brutal fights in Game of Thrones was filmed.
This is the exact place where Brienne of Tarth and The Hound fight in Season 4. Watching it on screen was incredible. Standing right where they fought? Chills.
How to visit Thingvellir
- Part of the Golden Circle, only 45 minutes from Reykjavík
- Easily reachable by car or guided tour
- Link to the best Golden Circle Tour HERE (Use this link for a significant discount)
- Walking paths take you right through the filming areas
Beyond GoT, this is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, so even non-fans will be impressed.
3. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Location: Near Vík, South Coast
Seen in: Season 7 – Eastwatch-by-the-Sea & north of the Wall scenes
Black Sand Beaches re quite famous in Iceland, mostly due to the volcanic rock present in Iceland. They’re also very prominent in Game of Thrones. Reynisfjara is one of the most dramatic places I’ve ever visited and one of the coolest Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland.
In the show, it was used for scenes north of the Wall, including areas around Eastwatch-by-the-Sea. The jagged basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves are the perfect setting to show the White Walkers finally tearing down the wall and reigning terror on Westeros once again.
How to visit Reynisfjara
- About 2.5 hours from Reykjavík
- Stop along Iceland’s South Coast Bus Tour
- Click the link for that BUS TOUR HERE – highly recommend!
- Free to visit
4. Grjótagjá Cave
Location: Near Lake Mývatn, North Iceland
Seen in: Season 3 – Jon Snow & Ygritte’s cave scene
If you remember the famous Jon Snow and Ygritte moment, this is where it happened. Grjótagjá is a small lava cave with a geothermal spring, and it’s one of the most unique Game of Thrones locations in Iceland.
This location is pretty far from the main city of Reykjavik so it might be tough to get to. However, if you find yourself on the Northwest side of the island, this place is absolutely worth a trip.
How to visit Grjótagjá
- Near Lake Mývatn
- Short walk from the parking area
- Free to enter (but no swimming)
It’s quick to visit, but totally worth it for fans.
5. Svínafellsjökull Glacier
Location: Vatnajökull National Park
Seen in: Seasons 2, 3 & 7 – Beyond the Wall
Glaciers played a massive role in Game of Thrones’ north-of-the-Wall scenes, and Svínafellsjökull is one of the most important ones.
The area was used for scenes featuring the Night’s Watch, the Wildlings, and the first meeting of Jon Snow and Ygritte.
This glacier was used for multiple icy scenes featuring the Night’s Watch and White Walkers, it was a prominent feature in the penultimate episode of season 7.
Seeing it up close really drives home how perfect Iceland was as a filming location. Even if you’re not a Game of Thrones fan, the glacier is stunning to see up close.
How to visit Svínafellsjökull
- Located in Vatnajökull National Park
- Short hike from the parking area
- Glacier tours available for closer access
6. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Location: Near Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Seen in: Season 8 – Back drop of Jon and Daenerys
This jaw-dropping canyon was front and center in season 8 episode 1 – the scene where Jon and Daenerys are flying their dragons amongst the breathtaking Iceland landscape. The canyon and waterfall provide a backdrop for one of the most visually stunning scenes of the show.
Thousands of tourist’s flock to this location every year to see the beautiful canyon
How to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
- Off of Route 1
- 45 minutes east of the town of Vik
Final Thoughts: Is Iceland Worth It for Game of Thrones Fans?
Short answer? Yes it definitely is
Tons of the Northern scenes were filmed in Iceland because of the unique landscapes and many of them are easily accessible to see as mentioned in the article. Others are tougher to get to just because of the remoteness of the area. However even if you’re only a casual fan, the landscapes alone are worth the journey.
I’ve visited several of these places myself, and if you’re a Game of Thrones fan like myself, it really is incredible to see exactly where the magic went down. It truly is like stepping into the world of Westeros and traveling beyond the wall.
Other Iceland Articles:
Hidden Gems of Iceland: 8 Places Other than the Golden Circle you Need to See
The Best Way to Book Your Iceland Trip while Saving Time and Money
Ultimate Iceland Packing List: What to Pack for Every Season & Adventure