With a surprise appearance by GoT’s Kristian Nairn (Hodor), the global Game of Thrones tours prove super popular, with locations seeing up to 2270% increase in traveller search activity year-on-year.
TripAdvisor is playing up the game of Game of Thrones tourism, announcing the top 10 most popular “Game of Thrones” tours throughout the world, based on TripAdvisor attractions booking data, leading into the Season 7 premiere next week.
In recognition of its ranking on the list, TripAdvisor says it “teamed up with cast member Kristian Nairn to surprise unsuspecting TripAdvisor tour-goers on the Game of Thrones tour ranked #1 in the UK and #3 in the world,” with the video of the surprise visit posted to Instagram and viewable here.
Kristian Nairn’s memorable “hold the door” scene was recreated for TripAdvisor tour-goers in a true, once-only VIP experience. As you can see in the video, Nairn appeared midway through the tour to surprise fans at Ballintoy Harbour, made famous as part of the Iron Islands of House Greyjoy.
There was cheering and a few shrieks from the guests, some even shouted “Hold the door! Hold the door!” After the surprise, Kristian and the tour-guide (a series fanatic), shared insider information about the show and invited everyone to pose for photos.
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Tour operator Caroline McComb said: “I love my job because every day I’m able to provide a top-rate tour experience for people just as passionate about the Game of Thrones as myself. Today, however, was on a whole new level. An amazing experience, only on a TripAdvisor tour!”
TripAdvisor said it has analysed the annual search activity data for Game of Thrones filming locations since 2012, a year after the series began to air, to determine show’s influence on tourism to those destinations. Most locations have experienced significant increases in traveler interest, as much as 2270%, after appearing on the show.
Spain, one of the most popular locations for TripAdvisor Game of Thrones tours, has seen a massive lift in activity. Spanish landmarks like the Castle of Zafra, experienced 488% year-over-year increase in interest from international travelers after its appearance in Season 6. Osuna´s bullfighting ring, appearing as the Fighting Pits of Mereen, has experienced a 215% increase in traveler interest.
Top 10 Most Booked Game of Thrones Tours on TripAdvisor
1. Viator Exclusive: 'Game of Thrones' Walking Tour of Dubrovnik, Croatia (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $65.50)
Travelers can discover Game of Thrones (GOT) film sites of Old Town of Dubrovnik on this guided walking tour that takes in the real-life attractions used for some of the show’s fictional locations including Lovrijenac Fortress, Blackwater Bay and a trip to Trsteno Arboretum.
2. 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations Tour From Reykjavik, Iceland (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $127.59)
Travelers can visit GOT filming locations on this full-day guided tour, including Thingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Iceland’s largest geothermal power stations at Nesjavellir, Lake Thingvallavatn's panoramic vistas as well as Thjorsárdalur valley.
3. 'Game of Thrones' and Giant's Causeway Full-Day Tour from Belfast, UK (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $45.32)
Kristian Nairn, member of the ensemble cast, recently surprised and thrilled unsuspecting fans on this popular GOT tour. Travelers can see the magical locations where GOT is filmed on a full-day tour of the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Fans visit key filming locations, such as the caves and Dark Hedges road, while listening to inside gossip about popular characters.
4. 'Game of Thrones' Film Location Tour from Dublin Including Giant's Causeway, Ireland (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $62.66)
Travelers discover sites made famous from GOT visiting beautiful locations such as the Dark Hedges, the Cushendun Caves, Ballintoy Harbour and Larrybane. There are also photo opportunities at the iconic ruin of Dunluce Castle and Giant's Causeway.
5. Viator Exclusive: 'Game of Thrones' Tour in Split, Croatia (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $77.47)
Travelers get an insider’s view of GOT on this 3.5-hour guided walking tour in Split. A local guide provides a behind-the-scenes look, learning about spots in the fictional city of Meereen and the fortress of Klis, before ending at Diocletian’s Palace.
6. ‘Game of Thrones’ Filming Locations Tour from Belfast including Giant’s Causeway, UK (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $38.85)
Travelers embark on an epic journey through the Seven Kingdoms on this full-day tour of Northern Ireland’s GOT filming locations, such as Dark Hedges, Cushendun Caves and Carrickfergus Castle. Along the way, marvel at natural wonders like the Giant’s Causeway, see the Titanic Studios and walk the notorious Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
7. Game of Thrones Tour with Karaka Cruise and Dubrovnik Walking Tour, Croatia (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $48.99)
Travelers sail into the fantastical world of GOT with this action-packed 2-hour cruise and walking tour throughout King's Landing. Board the same ship that Daenerys Targaryen sailed and then walk through Dubrovnik's Old Town to discover where other famous scenes were set.
8. 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations Tour in Malta (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $67.21)
Travelers discover the Lands of Ice and Fire on this full-day tour of Malta’s GOT filming locations. On this tour, which was designed and is led by two actors who appeared on the series, travelers get up close to the ancient forts, parkland and streets that set the scene for the Red Keep and King’s Landing.
9. 'Game of Thrones' Location Tour from Belfast including Giant's Causeway, UK (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $33.04)
Travelers explore sites made famous in GOT, and explore the Causeway Coastal Route with panoramic views over the countryside. Visit top local attractions including Cushendun Caves, Ballintoy Harbour and Larrybane, Giant's Causeway and the Dark Hedges.
10. 'Game of Thrones' Guided Day Trip to Girona from Barcelona, Spain (bookable on TripAdvisor with low price guarantee of $112.78)
Travelers follow in the footsteps of the Lannisters and the Targaryens on this 8-hour GOT–themed tour in Girona. Explore the medieval city through the eyes of key characters, sample King’s Hand ice cream, and enjoy free time to see the city’s Roman walls, Jewish district and more.