10 Game of Thrones sites in Malta, where they filmed the first season of the Series
In this article, I will guide you through all the main Game of Thrones sites in Malta, following a carefully planned itinerary for fans who want to visit each spot strategically.
If you’ve ever wondered where they filmed Game of Thrones in Malta, get ready for an epic journey through medieval bastions, spectacular cliffs, and stone streets soaked in history. Before the production moved to Croatia, Game of Thrones Season 1 locations in Malta and Gozo made full use of the islands’ stunning natural and architectural beauty.
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan planning a trip to Malta, prepare for an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the archipelago. Here, among fortified cities, ancient architecture, and dramatic coastlines, Malta had the honor of hosting the Seven Kingdoms, bringing to life the very first images of the HBO series that captivated millions of viewers.
In this article, I will guide you through all the key Game of Thrones filming locations in Malta, with an itinerary designed for fans who want to explore every site, starting from the island of Malta and continuing to Gozo.
Each stop includes a description of the scenes from Game of Thrones Season 1 filmed in Malta, so if you haven’t seen it yet—beware—this article contains SPOILERS from SEASON ONE of Game of Thrones!!!!
This post may contain affiliate links. Many of the images are from the Game of Thrones TV series and are the property of HBO.
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Game of Thrones sites in Malta
Mdina: The first face of King’s Landing in Malta
Your adventure begins in the enchanting Mdina, the “Silent City,” located in the center of the island. This fortified town, with massive walls, golden stone alleys, and a timeless atmosphere, was used to depict King’s Landing in Malta.
Mdina’s main gate, built in 1724, appeared in the scene where Catelyn Stark arrives incognito in King’s Landing to investigate the attack on Bran.
While strolling through the historic center, you might recognize other corners used in scenes with Ned Stark, as he moves through the capital’s streets and talks with questionable characters.
Mdina is one of the most iconic Game of Thrones Season 1 locations in Malta—perfect to explore on foot in a couple of hours.
Mesquita Square and the duel with Jaime
Just a few steps from Mdina’s gate lies Mesquita Square, another unmissable Game of Thrones site in Malta. In this picturesque square, Catelyn Stark meets Ned in secret.
But the most dramatic scene filmed here is the duel between Ned Stark and Jaime Lannister after Jaime learns of Tyrion’s capture. The clash ends with the death of Stark guards and Ned’s injury.
Visiting Mesquita Square feels like stepping back in time, becoming part of a world of honor duels and court intrigues.
San Anton Palace is the Red Keep
One of the most scenic Game of Thrones filming locations in Malta is San Anton Palace, used in Season 1 to depict a section of the Red Keep in King’s Landing in Malta.
Though it’s now the summer residence of Malta’s President and not open for interior visits, this is where Joffrey shows Sansa the heads of traitors, including Ned Stark’s, mounted on spikes along the honey-colored limestone walls.
To experience this Game of Thrones site in Malta, visit the public San Anton Gardens—lush, shady paths, statues, fountains, and even free-roaming peacocks.
It’s a peaceful place where the atmosphere of courtly games and power struggles still lingers.
St. Dominic in Rabat and the most iconic line
Another impactful Game of Thrones filming location in Malta is the St. Dominic convent in Rabat—an underrated but essential spot for true fans.
In its quiet, atmospheric courtyard, one of the series’ key dialogues was filmed: the iconic exchange between Cersei Lannister and Ned Stark. This is where Cersei utters the unforgettable line: “When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you die.”
Visiting this convent—still a place of pilgrimage for devotees of the Virgin Mary and Game of Thrones fans alike—is a unique opportunity to see where they filmed Game of Thrones in Malta. You can almost hear whispers of royal conspiracies among the ancient walls.
When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you die
Verdala Palace: Illyrio Mopatis’ residence
Moving on toward Rabat, you’ll find Verdala Palace, used for the exterior of Magister Illyrio Mopatis’ mansion in Pentos, where Daenerys and Viserys Targaryen first meet Khal Drogo.
This elegant Baroque palace, perched on a hill above the Buskett Gardens, is not always open to the public. But even from the outside, it evokes that crucial moment when Daenerys’ epic journey begins.
Fort Ricasoli: King’s Landing Gate in Malta
Near Kalkara lies Fort Ricasoli—one of the most recognizable Game of Thrones Season 1 locations in Malta, used to represent King’s Landing’s outer walls and gates.
This is where guards watch the city, dignitaries enter, and many of the capital’s exterior shots were filmed.
Though it’s not open regularly to visitors, you can admire the fort from the coast or on a Grand Harbour mini-cruise. Its imposing silhouette is instantly recognizable to fans.
Eagle Street in Valletta: Arya among the alleys
In Malta’s capital, Valletta, Eagle Street features in a subtle but emotional scene: Arya Stark wanders the alleys of King’s Landing in Malta, alone and hungry, trying to trade a pigeon for bread.
This real-life alley shows how the production transformed even the smallest corners into the sprawling capital of the Seven Kingdoms.
Fort Manoel: The most shocking execution
One of the series’ most dramatic moments was filmed at Fort Manoel, an 18th-century fortress on Manoel Island, near Valletta.
Its central square was digitally altered to depict the Sept of Baelor, but fans will easily recognize the original structure from the pivotal scene.
Fort Manoel is a standout Game of Thrones filming location in Malta where real architecture meets cinematic magic. Today, it’s open for special events and tours—a must-see for anyone walking in the footsteps of the Starks.
Mthaleb Cliffs: The end of Khal Drogo
On the island’s west coast, the wild and majestic Mthaleb Cliffs served as the Dothraki wilderness.
This is where Khal Drogo is seen dying, unable to ride, and where his funeral pyre is lit.
It’s also the setting for one of the most powerful scenes in the saga—when Daenerys emerges from the flames with her three baby dragons.
Azure Window in Gozo: The Dothraki wedding
One of Season 1’s most unforgettable scenes is the wedding of Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo, filmed at the legendary Azure Window in Gozo.
This natural limestone arch overlooked turquoise waters near Dwejra and formed the backdrop for the Dothraki-style ceremony.
Though the Azure Window sadly collapsed during a 2017 storm, it remains one of the most iconic Game of Thrones sites in Malta, and its spirit lives on in the series.
Visitors to Gozo can still explore the surrounding area, including the Inland Sea and Blue Hole—spectacular for diving and nature photography.
How to plan a tour of the Game of Thrones sites in Malta
To explore all the Game of Thrones sites in Malta, I recommend dedicating at least one day to exploring Mdina and Rabat, one day to Valletta and its forts, and one day to the island of Gozo.
If you want to visit all the Game of Thrones filming locations in Malta and Gozo stress-free and with maximum flexibility, renting a car is definitely the best option. Distances on the main island are short, the roads are generally easy to drive, and parking is usually available—even close to the most touristy spots.
I personally chose to rent a car so I could follow my own fan-made itinerary, moving from one spot to another without having to rely on schedules or public transport. It was absolutely the right choice: I was able to enjoy every stop at my own pace, taking photos, shooting videos, and soaking in the atmosphere of these legendary places.
Visiting the Game of Thrones sites in Malta feels like going back to the origins of the saga, to a world where every stone tells a story and every narrow alley could hide a conspiracy. Get ready to walk the same walls where Daenerys became the Mother of Dragons or where Ned Stark met his tragic fate.
If you love the series, you can’t miss these Game of Thrones Season 1 locations in Malta: the Iron Throne is waiting for you, amidst sunshine, history, and a touch of magic.
And if you’re curious to find out where they filmed Game of Thrones in Malta, don’t forget to visit the most iconic ones like King’s Landing in Malta, which was brought to life in the ancient streets of Mdina and the imposing walls of Fort Ricasoli.
Want to explore even more? Check out this guide to the Game of Thrones filming locations in Malta, and don’t miss our article about where they filmed Game of Thrones in Croatia!
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