Visiting the Real Alcazar in Seville: A Game of Thrones Fan’s Guide to Dorne

As soon as I found out that the Real Alcazar in Seville was used as the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, I knew I had to go.

I’ve been a massive fan of the show for years—the kind of person who pins filming locations on Google Maps “just in case” they end up nearby one day. So when I realized Seville wasn’t just beautiful, but also full-on Westerosi? That sealed the deal.

This wasn’t just another royal palace—this was Dorne. This was where Prince Doran plotted, where Ellaria Sand fumed, and where peacocks strutted through lush gardens while royal drama unfolded.

And let me tell you: the Real Alcazar is even more magical in person—whether you’re a die-hard Thrones fan or just really into opulent palaces and secret courtyards. In this post, I’m sharing exactly what it’s like to walk in the footsteps of the Sand Snakes, plus how to plan your own visit, whether you want to go DIY or join a Game of Thrones tour.

Let’s head to Sunspear.

Quick Guide: Why Visit the Real Alcazar in Seville?

If you’re heading to Seville and skipping the Real Alcazar, you’re seriously missing out. This place isn’t just some old royal palace—it’s a living, breathing piece of history and one of the most stunning filming locations from Game of Thrones.

Let’s break it down.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yep, this place is officially one of the most important cultural landmarks in the world. The Real Alcazar has been a royal residence for over 1,000 years—and it’s still used by the Spanish royal family when they’re in town.

It’s one of the oldest royal palaces still in use.

Originally built as an Islamic fortress in the 10th century, the Alcazar has been transformed over centuries by different dynasties. Think soaring arches, intricate tilework, gold-covered ceilings, and lush gardens straight out of a fairy tale.

The architecture is jaw-dropping.

The palace is one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture, a unique blend of Moorish and Christian design styles that’s only found in southern Spain. You’ll wander through glittering halls, peaceful patios, and shadowy colonnades that feel like stepping back in time—or into a fantasy realm.

Game of Thrones was filmed here.

Recognize it? That’s because the Alcazar was transformed into the Water Gardens of Dorne in Season 5 of Game of Thrones. It served as the seat of House Martell and the backdrop for some of the show’s most dramatic (and stylish) scenes. More on that in a bit.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture nerd, or a full-blown Thrones fangirl, the Real Alcazar is one of those places that lives up to the hype—and then some.

Game of Thrones Scenes Filmed at the Real Alcazar

If you found yourself wishing you could stroll through the Water Gardens of Dorne while watching Game of Thrones, good news—you basically can. The Real Alcazar of Seville was the real-world filming location for Sunspear, the capital of Dorne, in Season 5 of the show.

From secret plotting scenes to dramatic entrances (Ellaria, we see you), the Alcazar brought Westeros to life with stunning precision—and honestly, it might be even more beautiful in real life.

Here are the top Game of Thrones Alcazar filming locations you can still visit today:

The King’s Royal Balcony & Mercury’s Pond

This is where Ellaria Sand storms up to Prince Doran’s viewing platform in one of Dorne’s most iconic moments. While the actual balcony isn’t accessible to the public, you can view it from the Grotesque Gallery and take in the full royal drama vibes overlooking Mercury’s Pond.

Pavilion of Carlos V

You’ll recognize this courtyard from the scene where Jaime and Bronn clash swords with the Sand Snakes. It’s one of the most action-packed locations from the Alcazar’s Thrones appearances—and yes, it’s right next to the hedge maze. (Just in case you want to reenact a dramatic exit.)

The Hall of Ambassadors

This jaw-dropping room is where Jaime meets with Prince Doran. With its ornate gold dome and richly tiled walls, it’s one of the most visually striking places in the entire palace, and a must-see whether or not you’re there for the Game of Thrones filming locations.

Los Baños de Doña María de Padilla

In this underground bath chamber, Ellaria and the Sand Snakes plotted to kidnap Myrcella Lannister. The space is dark, echoey, and hauntingly beautiful—and usually crowded. Plan to wait a bit for your photo op, but trust me, it’s worth it.

Fountain of Neptune

This serene corner of the gardens is where we meet Trystane Martell and Myrcella—easily one of the show’s softest (and shortest-lived) couples. The scene is peaceful, romantic, and surrounded by classical beauty. You might even catch a peacock strutting through.

Want to make sure you don’t miss any of these spots? Up next, I’ll share the easiest way to experience them all—and skip the guesswork.

Want the Full Game of Thrones Experience? Take a Guided Tour of the Alcazar

Sure, you can wander through the Alcazar solo, hoping to stumble across all the filming locations from Game of Thrones… but let’s be real: the place is a maze of courtyards, gardens, and secret corners. If you want to see every spot where Dorne came to life without second-guessing every fountain and archway, a guided Game of Thrones tour is the way to go.

Led by local experts (aka the real Maesters of Seville), these tours point out exactly where scenes were shot, share behind-the-scenes stories, and even bring along printed stills from the show so you can match the scene to the spot. It’s honestly the closest you can get to stepping into Westeros—minus the backstabbing and dragons.

Tour highlights include:

• Skip-the-line access to the Royal Alcázar
• Stories from behind the scenes of the show
• Printed screenshots to match scenes to real-life locations
• Key stops like the Hall of Ambassadors, Doña María de Padilla Baths, and the Grotesque Gallery

If you’re a Thrones fan (or just love a good palace story), this is absolutely the way to experience the Alcazar. Bonus points if you rewatch Season 5 before your trip—it makes spotting each scene that much more magical.

Ready to step into Sunspear?

Self-Guided Game of Thrones Tour of the Alcazar

Want to channel your inner Sand Snake without a tour group? Totally doable. If you’re more of a wander-and-discover type (or just want to save a few euros), you can absolutely do your own self-guided Game of Thrones tour of the Alcazar — you just need a little prep.

Here’s how to find the key Game of Thrones filming locations inside the Real Alcazar on your own:

Download or Screenshot This Map First

The palace is beautiful chaos — think endless courtyards, unmarked staircases, and maze-like gardens. I recommend using this custom Google MyMap with all the major filming locations pinned. Save it to your phone before you go or screenshot the highlights in case you lose service inside the thick stone walls.

Must-See Filming Locations (DIY Style)

1. Mercury’s Pond & the King’s Balcony

📍 Near the Grotesque Gallery

Look up to find the royal balcony where Ellaria storms in. You can’t access the actual platform, but the view from below is so dramatic.

2. Pavilion of Carlos V

📍 Just past the hedge maze

The scene of the Sand Snakes ambush. Channel your inner Bronn and snap a shot with those iconic pillars in the background.

3. Doña María de Padilla Baths

📍 Underground near the Gothic Palace

Moody lighting, dripping arches—perfect for your plotting pose. Try to arrive early or wait for a break in the crowd to get the best photo.

4. Hall of Ambassadors

📍 Just off the Patio de las Doncellas

This is where Prince Doran met with Jaime. Pro tip: set your camera to wide angle and tilt up—the tiled dome is everything.

5. Fountain of Neptune

📍 Garden of the Dance

Where Trystane and Myrcella had their sweet little love scene (before, you know, tragedy struck). It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal for a soft-focus selfie.

Getting Lost (and Loving It): My Experience Visiting the Real Alcazar Seville

Despite having a map in hand and a full-on Thrones fangirl mission, I somehow managed to get completely and utterly lost inside the Real Alcazar—and honestly, that might have been the best part.

The plan was to stroll in with purpose, make a beeline for the Water Gardens of Dorne, and start checking off filming locations one by one. Instead, I wandered through a door, then another… and immediately ended up in a different courtyard than I expected. A beautiful one, sure—but definitely not Dorne.

Turns out? That’s kind of how the Alcazar works. You don’t just “follow the map.” You get swept up in it.

Courtyard After Courtyard After Courtyard…

No one tells you how many courtyards are in this place. I swear, every time I turned a corner, I landed in another perfect little scene: tiled fountains, carved columns, bursts of greenery, golden sunlight. It felt less like walking through a historic palace and more like stepping through layered dimensions—each one dreamier than the last.

I tried to orient myself using the map a few times, but gave up pretty quickly. Between the labyrinth of gardens and overlapping architectural styles, it was easier (and more fun) to let the palace guide me.

Pro tip: bring snacks. Because if you have my sense of direction, you’ll be here a while.

The Gardens of Dorne (a.k.a. My New Dream Backyard)

Eventually—after mistaking at least two different pools for the Water Gardens—I pulled out my phone and looked up the actual filming location. Naturally, I had walked right past it earlier.

When I finally found the real thing, it took my breath away. The sun reflecting off the long pools, the peacocks wandering by like they owned the place, the quiet hum of the gardens—it was exactly what Dorne should feel like. Regal. Peaceful. And just a little bit smug.

Of course, I waited for the crowd to clear and took a dozen photos, pretending I was the long-lost heir to House Martell. As one does.

Walking the Terraces Like a True Dornish Princess

Up above the gardens, you might recognize a certain royal balcony — the one where Prince Doran sat in Game of Thrones as Ellaria Sand stormed up below. Sadly, you can’t actually access that exact terrace (the King’s Royal Balcony is off-limits to visitors), but don’t worry—there are other elevated walkways in the palace that totally make up for it.

Just around the corner, you’ll find a series of arched galleries and covered terraces where you can walk. From up there, the views over the gardens are nothing short of cinematic. You can spot the Pavilion of Carlos V, Mercury’s Pond, and even trace the path of scenes from above.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ll definitely spend a little extra time up there pretending you’re a long-lost member of House Martell—surveying your kingdom, soaking in the sunshine, and snapping about a thousand dreamy photos.

How to Visit the Real Alcazar in Seville

Whether you’re a history lover, architecture nerd, or full-blown Game of Thrones fan, the Real Alcazar of Seville is a must. But it’s also one of the most popular attractions in Andalusia—which means you’ll want to plan your visit strategically.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time there.

How to Buy Tickets for the Real Alcazar

Buy. Your. Tickets. In. Advance.

Seriously — this is the #1 tip I can give you. Even if you’re planning to visit on a Free Monday (more on that in a sec), book your ticket online ahead of time. The lines at the entrance can be brutal, especially in high season.

• You can buy official tickets at: realalcazarsevilla.com
• Choose your date, entry time, and type of ticket (general admission or with Royal Chambers access)
• Most visits include the ground floor, gardens, and exhibitions. The upper palace (still used by the royal family!) requires a special add-on ticket
• Free Mondays: Entry is free in the last hour of the day on Mondays, but you still need to reserve a timed slot online for €1 (admin fee)

Real Alcazar Opening Hours

• October to March: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• April to September: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Closed on: January 1 & 6, Good Friday, December 25

Expect to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring if you want to take your time (or go on a GoT photo hunt).

How to Get to the Real Alcazar

The Alcazar’s main entrance is through the Puerta del León (Lion’s Gate), located just off Plaza del Triunfo—right next to the Seville Cathedral. You truly can’t miss it.

• Walking: Seville is incredibly walkable, and if you’re staying in the historic center, you can probably get there in under 15 minutes.
• By tram: Take the T1 line to the Archivo de Indias stop—it’s just steps from the entrance.

Heads up: Google Maps might try to route you to the garden side. Make sure you’re heading to Puerta del León for the actual entrance.

Want to skip the ticket stress entirely? Check out the Game of Thrones + Alcazar guided tour—it includes fast-track entry so you can walk straight in like royalty.

Don’t want to go full GOT? Check out this tour where you have the special chance to visit the always-crowded Alcázar before it officially opens to the public

What to See at the Real Alcazar (Beyond Game of Thrones)

Even if you’ve never watched a single episode of Game of Thrones (no judgment… maybe), the Real Alcazar is still one of the most stunning places you’ll ever wander through. The palace is an architectural and historical feast—with layered influences from Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Here are the can’t-miss highlights when visiting the Alcazar:

Puerta del León (Lion’s Gate)

Before you even step inside, look up. The entrance to the Alcazar is named after the carved lion perched over the doorway — a symbolic protector and your first taste of the rich iconography inside.

Pro tip: this is also a great spot to snap a quick pic before the crowds build up.

Patio de la Montería

This wide, open courtyard is the first space you’ll encounter after passing through the Lion’s Gate. It was once used as a gathering point before royal hunts (hence the name), and it sets the stage for what’s to come—with a direct view of the stunning Palace of Peter I facade.

The Hall of Justice & Patio del Yeso

One of the oldest surviving parts of the palace, this moody little hall is filled with incredible craftsmanship: carved wooden ceilings, horseshoe arches, and a quiet fountain at its center. It’s just to the left after you enter, and honestly feels like a secret.

Fun fact: King Pedro I had his half-brother killed here in 1358. Drama.

Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens)

Possibly the most photogenic spot in the whole Alcazar. With its central reflecting pool, intricate tilework, and palm-lined arches, this courtyard is a true showstopper. It’s also one of the few areas used in both real royal ceremonies and Hollywood productions (Kingdom of Heaven, anyone?).

Patio de las Muñecas (Courtyard of the Dolls)

Much smaller and more intimate than the Maidens’ Courtyard, this space was once part of the royal family’s private quarters. Look closely: tiny doll faces are carved into the arches, giving the patio its name. It’s the kind of detail you’d totally miss if you weren’t paying attention—and it’s so worth pausing to find them.

Garden of the Prince

Technically not inside the palace itself, but it’s tucked away just enough to feel like a secret. This lush green space features classical columns and a peaceful vibe—perfect for catching your breath mid-palace adventure.

These spots are just scratching the surface. The Alcazar is layered, intricate, and honestly overwhelming in the best way. Give yourself permission to get a little lost—that’s half the fun.

The Best Gardens in the Real Alcazar

Just when you think the palace can’t get any better… you step into the gardens.

Honestly, the gardens at the Real Alcazar feel like a whole other world. Sprawling and serene, they’re filled with towering palm trees, gurgling fountains, peacocks casually roaming around, and tiled walkways just begging for a slow wander. And yes—several of the Game of Thrones scenes were filmed out here too, but even without the HBO glow-up, these gardens are next level.

Here are some of the most magical spots you don’t want to miss:

Garden of the Dance

Formerly a royal vegetable patch (glow-up alert), this garden is now a peaceful space with layered box hedges, classic columns, and tiled fountains. It’s not as flashy as some of the others, but it has a low-key charm. And if you’re lucky, you might spot the peacocks here strutting like they own the place.

The Hedge Maze

Because who doesn’t love a little whimsical chaos? The hedge maze isn’t huge or particularly challenging, but it’s so fun—especially if you’re channeling your inner Martell. There are no signs, so use the map (or follow the sound of giggling tourists).

Garden of the Ladies

This one is a showstopper. Perfectly symmetrical hedges, towering palms, and the gorgeous Fountain of Fame give this garden major “I should live here” energy. It was originally created to celebrate the marriage of Carlos V and Isabel of Portugal, and honestly? It still feels like a love letter.

Garden of the Poets

Tucked away at the edge of the complex, this garden is quiet, shaded, and often nearly empty. It’s where I first mistakenly thought I had found the Water Gardens of Dorne—and even though I was wrong, it totally felt like a secret royal hideaway. Come here for a break from the crowds.

Garden of the Marquis’ Retirement

Right next to the Poets’ Garden, this spot continues the secluded, peaceful vibe. It’s all traditional Andalusian garden design—hedges, symmetry, shade, and serenity—but somehow still feels personal and human-scale. If you’re visiting in the heat of the day, this is where you’ll want to linger.

You’ll find dozens of little nooks like these all throughout the Alcazar grounds. My advice? Don’t try to rush it. Give yourself time to explore, sit by a fountain, and maybe even read a few pages of a book under a palm tree. You’re royalty for the day—act like it.

Tips for Game of Thrones Fans Visiting Seville

If you’re planning your visit to the Real Alcazar mainly because of Game of Thrones, I fully support your priorities. But while the Alcazar is the crown jewel of Dorne filming locations, it’s not the only one around. Here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of your Thrones-inspired trip to Seville.

Explore More Game of Thrones Filming Locations Near Seville

• Osuna – A quiet town just over an hour from Seville, Osuna’s bullring was transformed into the fighting pit of Meereen — you know, the one with the dracarys moment. The town really leaned into its Thrones connection, and you’ll even find memorabilia around town (including a mini museum and themed tapas!).
• Córdoba – The stunning Roman Bridge of Córdoba stood in for the Long Bridge of Volantis — the one Tyrion and Varys crossed in Season 5. Even if you’re not deep into Thrones lore, Córdoba is 100% worth the day trip for its historic sites and Andalusian charm.
• Italica – Just 25 minutes from Seville, Italica was used for one of the show’s most epic locations: the Dragonpit of King’s Landing, where Daenerys, Jon Snow, Cersei, and Tyrion all met in Season 7. The real site is a vast Roman amphitheater surrounded by mosaics, ruins, and olive groves—and yes, it’s just as impressive in person. Check out my full guide to visiting Italica here.

Pro Tips for GoT Fans Visiting the Alcazar

• Rewatch Season 5 before you go. Seeing the Dorne storyline again will make spotting scenes so much more fun.
• Bring screenshots of your favorite scenes. They’ll help you match up filming locations, and they’re great for recreating your own versions.
• Go early in the day for the best lighting and smaller crowds. Morning light in the courtyards is chef’s kiss, and you’ll have better luck getting clean shots without other people in them.
• Don’t rush. The Alcazar is huge, and if you’re fangirling like I was, you’ll want to linger. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours.

For die-hard fans (hi, welcome), Seville and the surrounding towns are basically a real-life Thrones pilgrimage. And honestly? Even if you’ve moved on to new shows, nothing quite compares to walking through Sunspear with the sun on your face and a courtyard full of history beneath your feet.

Final Thoughts: Is the Real Alcazar Worth It for Game of Thrones Fans?

If you’re even remotely a Game of Thrones fan, visiting the Real Alcazar in Seville is an absolute must. Not only is it one of the most iconic Thrones filming locations (hello, Water Gardens of Dorne), but it’s also one of the most stunning royal palaces in the world—full stop.

You’ll wander through ancient courtyards, dramatic tiled halls, and palm-lined gardens that look like they were designed for fantasy—because, in a way, they were.

But what really makes the Alcazar special isn’t just the show connection. It’s the feeling of stepping into a space that’s layered with history and imagination. Whether you’re standing under the golden dome of the Hall of Ambassadors or getting lost in the gardens pretending to be a Sand Snake (just me?), the Real Alcazar truly blurs the line between real life and cinematic magic.

So is it worth it?

Yes. A thousand times yes.

Whether you go solo, with a guided tour, or on a full Thrones-themed Andalusia adventure, the Real Alcazar is one of those places you’ll never forget—Thrones fan or not.

Planning Your Thrones-Inspired Trip?

Don’t miss these related guides:

• My Full Guide to Italica: Game of Thrones’ Dragonpit Filming Location
• 3 Days in Seville: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Where to Eat in Seville: Tapas Bars You’ll Love After a Palace Visit
• A Love Letter to Sevilla: Why I Fell in Love With This City

And if you’re dreaming of a Thrones-style adventure but don’t want to plan every detail yourself, check out my custom travel planning services—I’d love to help you design your perfect Andalusian escape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Game of Thrones at the Real Alcazar