With its popularity going up and over in a scale, the “Game of Thrones” became such an interesting piece of entertainment, as well as of education, all over the world.

Other than the plot and some “fantastic” new words, what makes this series so interesting?

Well, it could be the characters and the costumes. However, what really caught my eye were the sceneries as they slowly unfold in connection with the rise and fall of the plot.

Being such an enthusiast, if I could travel, I’ll surely visit the places depicted in this series and recall the particular scenes, which occurred at that one place at one time (or several times).

Here are my top 5 picks of real-life film locations from the series “Game of Thrones”:

1. The Dark Hedges as The King’s Road

Talk about a tunnel of trees! Seems familiar?

This road was shown for a few seconds in the scene where Arya Stark travelled north as a boy with her companions to escape King’s Landing.

At first, while watching the film, it was quite average for a normal viewer (especially if he/she is focused more on the character’s journey). However, if you look closer, there’s an acute magnetic pull, which draws you to look at the canopy of trees lined up in a quiet and narrow road.

Picture this. The sunset streaming orange hues on the horizon while the shadows of the trees dance amidst yours. Wouldn’t it be breathtaking?

Well, I think so. There’s simplicity, there’s beauty, and there’s a combination of both (this can be seen in this photo).

2. Essaouira in Morocco as Astapor

Looking for a more historical setting?

Then, you might remember this place as the setting for season 3 where Danaerys Targaryen (Khaleesi) visited Astapor in order to get her armies of unsullied (disciplined eunuchs for sale).

For the series, the coastal city of Essaouira was used. You can’t blame the staff though. The city, as well as the coastal view, was perfect in all aspects.

Looking at it now, the tint of history coupled with the aqua hue of the sea, takes you back in time where men and women used to dress in robes (which makes the whole scene really believable).

3. Azure Window in Gozo, Malta for the Dothraki Wedding

With a romantic backdrop for a wedding, Danaerys Targaryen was married off to Khal Drogo by her abusive brother, Viserys Targaryen.

The whole scene was quiet confusing for the lady the way I see it), especially since everything was all new to her (including her husband).

However, what’s sure in this scene is the beauty of the limestone formation that can be seen behind all the cast as they party and feast for the wedding of their leader.

The formation is known as the Azure Window, which can be found in the island of Gozo in Malta. It is truly inspiring and worth noting, especially after knowing that it has been formed after the collapse of two underground caves.

Flying to Malta and visiting such a site, especially as waves embrace the stone formation, is truly a fulfilling journey.

4. The Castle Town of Dubrovnik in Croatia as King’s Landing

If you’ve watched at least an episode of the series, you’ll surely know what and where King’s Landing is.

In both the book and the film, the King’s Landing is where the “seat” of the crown is located, as well as the fictional capital of the seven kingdoms.

However, in reality, the seaside castle town of Dubrovnik in Croatia showed us the real-life image of what we perceive to be the most coveted center of the throne.

The city itself is beautiful and is widely visited by tourists (even before the filming of the series started) due to its beauty as one of the few best preserved medieval walled cities in the world.

5. Aït Benhaddou as the City of Yunkai

Seemingly a haven for archaeologist and historians, Aït Benhaddou is a cultural city, inhabited by a few families. It is included as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site and can be found in Morocco.

Standing in as the city of Yunkai (the Yellow City), this city in Morocco was the setting for several scenes, including a few wherein Danaery’s negotiates with them, battles them, and eventually defeats them, turning several people to her side.

Aside from this series, the city has been a setting for many films including Oedipus Rex (1967), Gladiator (2000), and the Prince of Persia (2010). This is probably due to its rusty and historical characteristic perfect for depicting scenes of past eras.

No one can deny the fact that the series has inspired several ideas for a perfect vacation in several beautiful spots. Indeed, it is a noteworthy film for purposes such as entertaining our wildest imaginations, as well as for learning a few lessons in life.

Moreover, one needs not watch the series to visit these sites. You can just simply get ideas on where to fly and book the flight without having to spend hours watching several seasons.

After all, these beautiful sights will be there, film or no film.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your itinerary and book the next flight!