Game of Thrones in Iceland: Discover All The Filming Location

Svínafellsjökull Glacier (Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park)

In Season 2, Jon Snow heads beyond the Wall and meets Ygritte and the Wildlings for the first time, set against the rough Frostfang Mountains. That’s Svínafellsjökull Glacier, part of Vatnajökull, Iceland’s biggest ice cap. It’s in southeast Iceland, and its broken, blue ice showed up a lot in the show’s northern scenes from Season 2 on. People call it the "Hollywood Glacier" because it’s in many movies, but Game of Thrones fans love its empty, wild look—perfect for Wildlings and White Walkers. It looks so real that the show barely needed special effects to make it seem like a cold, risky place. For fans, being here feels like joining the Night’s Watch on a tough patrol, with a view that’s all about danger and excitement.

Svínafellsjökull is off Route 1, the Ring Road, about four hours from Reykjavík. It’s in Vatnajökull National Park, and the Skaftafell Visitor Centre is a handy starting point. Free trails take you to spots where you can take pictures of the glacier’s icy spread. To walk on it like the characters—safely, without Wildlings popping up—you need a guided tour because of hidden holes and tricky ground. A 4x4 rental camper is a good idea, especially in winter when snow makes roads hard. Summer is easier to visit, but winter’s snowy look fits the show great. Stop by Jökulsárlón lagoon; it wasn’t filmed, but it matches the Game of Thrones feel.

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier (Near Vík)

Season 2 shows the Night’s Watch camping at the Fist of the First Men, a rocky hill circled by ice that soon gets tense. That’s Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, sitting above the Höfðabrekka area near Vík in southern Iceland. Unlike the busy Vatnajökull, this glacier is quieter but just as cool, with wide snowy slopes that look like the northern parts of Westeros. The show used it to start Jon Snow’s Wildling adventures, with Höfðabrekka’s open space below making the Fist feel alone and ready for trouble—perfect for a Night’s Watch camp in a risky spot. Its rough, cold charm shows the danger beyond the Wall, and fans love it from the early seasons.

Getting here is pretty easy compared to far-off places. It’s a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavík on Route 1, going through Vík, a small village with black sand beaches and a nice vibe. From Vík, you can see Mýrdalsjökull up high, but to check it out close, take a guided tour from town. They use snowmobiles or super jeeps to get to the glacier’s edge, giving you a feel of the Fist’s big, lonely space. A regular rental camper works for the drive to Vík, but check the weather—winter snow can make it tough. Visit Reynisfjara Beach nearby (more on that later) for a double Game of Thrones day. Winter looks snowy like the show, while summer has clearer roads for an easier trip.

Vatnajökull Glacier

While Svínafellsjökull was the Frostfangs, Vatnajökull Glacier was the big, wild home of the White Walkers. Covering over 8% of Iceland in the southeast, it’s the country’s biggest glacier and showed up in lots of beyond-the-Wall scenes across many seasons. From Season 2’s Wildling meetups to the exciting wight hunt in Seasons 6 and 7—where Jon’s team fights the dead and Daenerys flies in with dragons—Vatnajökull’s icy fields were the setting. Its huge size and clean snow fit the North’s dangerous wilds, where every step could be risky. The show’s team liked it because it looked so real, needing almost no fake stuff to show the White Walkers’ cold land. For fans, this spot gives you a big sense of the North’s size.

Vatnajökull is on Route 1, about 4-5 hours from Reykjavík, with main stops at Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón. Skaftafell links to Svínafellsjökull, but Vatnajökull’s wide area is best seen on guided tours where you walk or ride snowmobiles. A 4x4 rental camper helps for the trip, since some side roads get bumpy, especially in winter. Tours might include ice caves, which weren’t filmed but feel special for fans. Summer makes it easier to get around, but winter’s snow and ice match the show—bring warm clothes. Pair it with Svínafellsjökull for a full northern day, and stand where Jon faced the Army of the Dead.

Þingvellir National Park (Golden Circle)

In Season 4, the story moves beyond the Wall and into the Vale of Arryn, which Þingvellir National Park encompasses. It’s a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík and serves as the Bloody Gate—a narrow, rocky path where Sansa walks in with Littlefinger and Arya is caught by the Hound. The Almannagjá Gorge, with its towering cliffs and winding trails, gives an impressive old-timey appearance, while the nearby Öxarárfoss waterfall adds a rugged touch. The park also features Brienne’s Season 4 battle with the Hound (sometimes linked to the nearby Hengill, which comes next) and a chilling scene with Ygritte, Tormund, and the hungry Thenns. It’s fascinating since two major tectonic plates split here, creating a valley that has historical significance—Iceland’s early leaders met here—and it’s perfect for filming. Fans can walk through this Vale entrance and feel the buzz of those key scenes.

Þingvellir is easy to reach via Route 36 from Reykjavík, part of the Golden Circle, in under an hour. Park at the visitor center and follow the clear trails through the gorge and to the waterfall—no guide needed. The smooth road works for any rental camper and is accessible all year round. Winter brings snow like a show, while summer showcases green cliffs in the Vale. Game of Thrones tours might share stories from locals who were extras, including tales about the Thenns’ scary scene—definitely worth asking about. It’s a top destination for its history and easy access.

Hengilsvæðið (Hengill Area)

The Season 4 finale features an epic battle between Brienne of Tarth and the Hound, filmed at Hengilsvæðið near Reykjavík. Often confused with the nearby Þingvellir, this volcanic area around Mount Hengill is known for its hot springs and rocky terrain. The rugged landscape and unique natural elements match the fight’s high energy, showcasing Brienne’s skills in defeating the Hound. Unlike colder northern locations, this site's warmth and raw character reveal a different side of Westeros, highlighting Iceland’s diverse scenery. For fans, visiting this location feels like stepping into that monumental clash, with steam from the hot springs enhancing the atmosphere.

From Reykjavík, drive south on Route 1, then turn onto Route 435—it’s about an hour away. The ground can be rough, so a 4x4 rental camper is smart, especially if you hike the trails. You’ll see bubbling springs and smell sulfur, signs of Iceland’s active land. No guided tour is needed but stick to marked paths to stay safe. Winter might make it slippery, so summer’s better for visiting. Pair it with Þingvellir for a day trip, and think of the Hound’s voice ringing off the rocks—a fun, less-known spot that packs a punch.

Grjótagjá Cave (Near Lake Mývatn)

In Season 3, Jon Snow and Ygritte share a quiet, romantic scene in a warm cave beyond the Wall. This location is Grjótagjá Cave, near Lake Mývatn in northern Iceland. The cave is small, formed by lava, and contains a hot spring with clear water surrounded by dark volcanic rock. Filming here was limited due to steam blocking the cameras, so most of the scene was recorded in a studio in Northern Ireland. However, Grjótagjá’s cozy and unusual appearance inspired the hideaway setting, making it popular with fans of Jon and Ygritte’s story (though we all know how it ends). Its natural warmth and rugged look suit the Wildling territory perfectly. For visitors, standing at the entrance offers a connection to this tender moment in the harsh North.

Grjótagjá is about 5.5 hours from Reykjavík by car via Route 1, heading toward the Mývatn area. Look for a small turnoff near the lake—it’s not well-marked, so pay attention. You can park near the cave and walk up; it’s free to look inside, but swimming isn’t allowed because the water can get super hot. A standard rental camper is sufficient for Route 1, although the final stretch may be rough, so drive carefully. Summer makes the cave more accessible, but winter’s snow makes the setting more similar to what you saw on TV. The Mývatn is great to explore, with hikes, hot springs, and even more GOT filming locations (keep reading), so make the most of your time there.

Dimmuborgir Lava Field (Near Lake Mývatn)

Season 3 features Mance Rayder’s Wildling camp, a large base where Jon Snow joins the Free Folk. This is Dimmuborgir Lava Field, located just east of Lake Mývatn. Known as “Dark Castles” for its strange lava formations—tall pillars and arches shaped by nature—it provided an odd, magical setting for the show. The Wildlings’ free lifestyle beyond the Wall fit well with this unique landscape. Walking through, you can imagine Mance leading his group or Jon planning his actions, as if in their camp. Local tales of trolls living here add an extra layer of interest for Game of Thrones fans.

Dimmuborgir is part of the Mývatn trip, a 5.5-hour drive from Reykjavík on Route 1. However, it’s just one hour from Akureyri, so it makes much more sense to go from there. Head east to the Dimmuborgir parking lot, which has signs and is set up for visitors. Trails run through the lava field, offering short 20-minute walks or longer ones up to an hour—no guide is required. Any rental camper can handle the roads, which are good year-round. Winter adds snow like the show, while summer brings green moss—both views are interesting. Look for the “Church” formation, an arch that could have been a Wildling meeting place. Pair it with Grjótagjá for a half-day exploring beyond the Wall.

Höfði Peninsula (Lake Mývatn)

During Season 3, while Jon is at the Wildling camp, Höfði Peninsula near Lake Mývatn appears in nearby scenes. It’s seen when Jon argues with Orell about Night’s Watch matters, adding lovely views to the story. This small piece of land has lava rocks poking out of the water and pleasant trails. It’s not as big a spot as Dimmuborgir, but it helped make the Wildling area feel real with its unusual scenery. The show used it to show the North’s wild, untouched nature. For fans, it’s a calm place to see the North’s strange beauty, focusing more on the land than on battles.

Höfði is close to Dimmuborgir, part of the same 5.5-hour drive from Reykjavík to Mývatn on Route 1. Park at the Höfði lot—it’s small, so arrive early in summer—and walk the marked paths; it’s a quick, easy visit with good lake views. Any camper works, as the road is smooth and simple. Summer has lots of green and birds (binoculars are handy), while winter’s bare look fits the show. It’s not a standalone must-see, but adding it to Dimmuborgir and Grjótagjá makes your Mývatn day fuller. Imagine Jon looking over the lake, deep in thought—a small bonus for fans.

Hverir Geothermal Area (Near Lake Mývatn)

In Seasons 6 and 7, the danger beyond the Wall grows, and the Hverir Geothermal Area becomes the edge of the Haunted Forest—a steamy, eerie spot warning of the White Walkers’ approach. Located near Lake Mývatn, it has muddy pools, colorful soil, and vents releasing steam, along with a strong sulfur smell. The show chose its odd appearance to show rising tension as Jon and his team moved deeper into the North, facing wights and other threats. It’s not a warm camp or icy plain but a strange place that signals danger. For fans, visiting Hverir feels like being at the start of trouble, with the air suggesting the Army of the Dead is near.

Hverir is just beyond Mývatn, a 5.5-hour drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 (and a 1-hour drive from Akureyri)—watch for signs after the lake. It’s right off the road with a parking lot so any rental camper can get there. Boardwalks guide you through the steamy areas—stay on them, as the ground is hot and fragile. It’s free, takes about 30 minutes, and is open all year. Winter’s fog and snow make it feel odd, like the show’s darker scenes, while summer’s still wild but brighter. The smell is strong—bring a scarf if it bothers you. Visit it with Dimmuborgir and Höfði for a complete northern experience, sensing the White Walkers’ presence.

Kirkjufell Mountain (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)

Kirkjufell Mountain appears twice in Game of Thrones with important scenes. In Season 6, Bran sees the Children of the Forest create the first White Walker here, its pointy shape standing out. Then, in Season 7, Episode 6, it’s Arrowhead Mountain during Jon’s wight-hunting mission—where Daenerys flies in to rescue them and loses a dragon. This 463-meter mountain near Grundarfjörður in western Iceland is well-known for photos, with waterfalls nearby and a sharp look perfect for fantasy. The show was filmed in summer and winter, adding actors later, but its shape made it special. For fans, visiting ties you to the White Walkers’ origin and that major rescue event.

Kirkjufell is a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavík—take Route 1 north, then Route 54 west to Snæfellsnes. Park near Grundarfjörður and walk the base trails; it’s free and simple, though climbing needs skill and gear (most fans don’t try). A standard camper works for summer’s good roads, but winter snow means a 4x4—check with us first. Summer shows green and waterfalls, while winter’s connects you more to the show. Take a photo with Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall included—it’s pure Westeros style. Kirkjufell is one of the highlights of Snæfellsnes, but it’s not the other natural wonder that’s worth visiting, so plan your itinerary thoroughly.

Þórsmörk and Stakkholtsgjá Canyon

In Season 7, Jon Snow and his team, including Tormund, Jorah, and the Hound, trap a wight in a snowy, narrow canyon beyond the Wall. This leads to a big rescue by Daenerys. The scene was filmed in Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, part of Þórsmörk in southern Iceland. Þórsmörk is a green valley surrounded by glaciers and birch trees, but Stakkholtsgjá stands out with its 100-meter-deep walls covered in moss. The canyon’s tight space made the ambush exciting, with snow on the ground and tall cliffs all around setting up a perfect trap. For fans, walking into Stakkholtsgjá feels like joining Jon’s group. You can hear echoes of that tense fight and the dragons’ arrival. It’s a mix of beauty and toughness from the show’s North.

Þórsmörk and Stakkholtsgjá are about four hours from Reykjavík by camper on Route 1, then Route 249, also called F249. The last part is rough with rivers and rocks, so you need a 4x4 rental camper or a super jeep tour. Regular campers won’t make it. Park at the Þórsmörk campsite and walk about an hour into the canyon. It’s not hard but worth it, with mossy walls and a stream to cross. Summer’s green, but rivers can rise. Winter’s snow fits the show, so check if the roads are open first. Tours often include other southern stops, and guides might share filming stories, like how the crew handled cold winds. It’s great for fans who love action and nature.

Reynisfjara Beach and Dyrhólaey

Season 7, Episode 5 shows Jon Snow, Gendry, Jorah, and Tormund arriving at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea, the Night’s Watch’s eastern castle, to meet the Brotherhood without Banners. This is Reynisfjara Beach near Vík, with Dyrhólaey nearby, in southern Iceland. Reynisfjara has black sand, sharp basalt columns, and big sea stacks, giving a gloomy feel that’s perfect for a castle facing the White Walkers. Dyrhólaey, a cliff area close by, adds wide ocean views with an arch and birds, making Eastwatch seem lonely. The rough waves and dark look showed the high stakes of Jon’s mission. For fans, standing here feels like guarding the Wall’s edge, with wind and water adding to the mood.

Reynisfjara is a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavík on Route 1, smooth all the way to Vík. Park at the beach lot and walk around. It’s free, but watch for strong waves that can sneak up, so stay away from the water’s edge. Dyrhólaey is a short drive west on Route 218. Park and walk up for big views. Any rental camper works, though summer gets busy, so go early. Winter’s quiet and matches the show’s feel, but dress warm for the wind. The basalt columns helped shape Eastwatch’s tough look. Locals say the sea stacks are trolls turned to stone, which is neat for Westeros fans. Stop in Vík for a cozy break afterward.

Þjóðveldisbærinn (Thjorsardalur Valley)

In Season 4, Episode 3, Wildlings and Thenns attack Olly’s village, a peaceful place that turns into a mess, pushing young Olly to join the Night’s Watch. This is Þjóðveldisbærinn, a rebuilt Viking farm in Þjórsárdalur Valley, southern Iceland. It has grass roofs and wooden walls, looking old and simple until the show made it a bloody scene. Near a small waterfall and volcanic hills, it’s built to show Iceland’s early days. The quiet farm life in the show made Olly’s loss feel bigger. For fans, visiting is calm now but reminds you of that sad attack. It’s a rare peek at a normal Westeros spot before trouble hits.

Þjóðveldisbærinn is 1.5 hours from Reykjavík. Drive Route 1 east, then Route 32 north. The roads are smooth, so any rental camper works, and parking’s right by the farm. It’s open in summer with a small fee, and guides talk about Viking life. If you want to know more about the show, ask if they know Game of Thrones bits. It might be closed in winter, but the snowy valley still feels like the North. Call ahead, just in case. The nearby waterfall adds a peaceful touch, which is good for thinking about Olly’s story. It’s close to the Golden Circle, like Þingvellir, so it’s an easy extra stop. For fans, it’s a simple, human piece of the show.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Season 8, Episode 1 has a sweet moment when Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen land their dragons behind a roaring waterfall after flying together. That’s Skógafoss, a 60-meter waterfall on the Ring Road in southern Iceland. The show added some computer effects, but the impressive water flow and misty atmosphere of Skógafoss made it an ideal spot for their dragon landing. It’s one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with a powerful and wide stream that you can admire up close or from staircases on the cliff. This scene follows their flight through Fjaðrárgljúfur, which mixes romance with Iceland’s wild side. For fans, standing here feels like being near where the dragons landed. It’s a pretty spot showing the North can be nice too.

Skógafoss is two hours from Reykjavík along Route 1, making it an easy trip. You can park right off the road for free and either walk to the base or climb over 500 steps for a view from the top. Both options are spectacular. Like we said, it’s easy to reach, but it gets crowded in the summer, so try to go early or late. In winter, the icy steps require caution, but the unique look of the waterfall and its surroundings make the sight more unique. People say a Viking hid treasure behind the waterfall — maybe even a dragon egg. For an even better experience, visit the nearby Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, which may not have been filmed but is still impressive. For enthusiasts, it’s a romantic destination with a touch of adventure.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Before landing at Skógafoss in Season 8, Episode 1, Jon and Daenerys fly through a winding, moss-covered canyon on their dragons, enjoying a joyful moment before reaching the waterfall. This is Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon in southern Iceland, 100 meters deep and two kilometers long near the Ring Road. Its curvy river, tall cliffs, and lush green moss create a magical setting for their dragon ride, showcasing Iceland’s gentler side after lots of icy North scenes. The show used its pretty view for a fun Targaryen moment. For fans, walking along the edge feels like following that flight—fewer dragons, and more beauty. It became really popular after the show.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a 3.5-hour drive from Reykjavík on Route 1, followed by a short drive on Route 206, which is a gravel road. A 4x4 rental camper is recommended for the rough section, especially in winter; however, cautious drivers can manage with a smaller vehicle in summer. Park in the lot and take the trail. It’s an easy walk lasting about 20-30 minutes, offering fantastic views from above. Access is free, but remember to stick to the paths to protect the moss. Summer showcases vibrant greens, winter appears stark, and both seasons have their charm, though snow may close the road, so be sure to check with Road.is before you head out. Pair your visit with Skógafoss for a Targaryen-themed day. Justin Bieber also filmed a music video here, which is another reason why it’s famous. It’s a popular spot for fans wanting to experience the dragon ride.

Þórufoss Waterfall

In Season 4, Episode 6, Daenerys Targaryen’s dragon Drogon burns a herd of goats in Meereen, showing her growing power. That’s Þórufoss Waterfall, a smaller spot near the Golden Circle in southern Iceland. Unlike the North’s cold scenes, this 18-meter waterfall over volcanic rock fit a warmer Westeros moment, showing Iceland’s range. The show picked it for its wild, empty look, with grass and cliffs around it, perfect for Drogon’s fiery feast. If you visit, you can almost picture the goats running and the dragon flying in a rare non-North scene.

Þórufoss is 45 minutes from Reykjavík on Route 36, which is part of the Golden Circle. Then, make a quick turn onto Route 48, a gravel road. Park near the waterfall; it’s a short and easy walk to find. A standard rental camper is sufficient in the summer, but in winter, it's safer to opt for a 4x4, as the gravel can become tricky. There are no trails or stairs, just a natural viewpoint. Summer is green and calm, while winter’s cold adds to the spectacle. You can visit Þingvellir on the same day since they are both part of the Golden Circle. That’s two Game of Thrones locations in one day! Þórufoss translates to “Thor’s Waterfall.” Perhaps Drogon received some Norse power. It’s a fantastic way to conclude your trip to Westeros.

Tips for Visiting

Traveling around Iceland is quite simple, but planning ahead is always a good idea. Consider these tips to make the most of your Game of Thrones itinerary.

• Camper Rentals: Renting a camper is the best way to explore. A 4x4 is great for remote spots like Þórsmörk or Fjaðrárgljúfur, but regular campers work for places like Þingvellir and Skógafoss. We’ve got you covered with rentals—book early!
• When to Go: Winter feels like beyond the Wall with snow, but summer’s safer for driving. Spring and fall are a nice mix.
• Tours: Some spots (glaciers, Þórsmörk) need guides. Book a Game of Thrones tour for fun extras like costumes!
• Safety: Watch the weather—Iceland’s tricky! Stay on paths and avoid sneaky waves at Reynisfjara.
• Seasons: There was no filming in seasons 5 and 6 (that was Croatia and Spain), but Iceland shines in seasons 2, 3, 4, 7, and 8.

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Conclusion

And that’s all 16 locations, from Svínafellsjökull’s icy lands to Þórufoss’ dragon fire. Each spot brings a piece of Westeros to life, whether you’re facing White Walkers beyond the Wall, standing at Eastwatch’s stormy beach, or joining Jon and Daenerys at Skógafoss. Renting a camper is the best way to see them. Get a 4x4 for tough places like Þórsmörk and Fjaðrárgljúfur, or a regular one for easy stops like Þingvellir and Reynisfjara. Winter gives you the show’s snowy North, while summer makes driving smoother. Pick what suits you.