Croatia’s dazzling coastlines, medieval architecture and lush landscapes have long attracted location scouts and enchanted movie goers alike. Beyond tourism hot spots like Dubrovnik or Hvar, a cinematic world awaits discovery across this diverse country from Istria to Dalmatia. Let the iconic backdrops from both major motion pictures and small screen productions filmed in Croatia inspire your travels to five locales behind some of film and television’s most recognizable settings.
Get Your Passport and Visa Ready
Before embarking on your cinematic adventure in Croatia, make sure you have a valid passport and any required visas. As Croatia is part of the European Union, Americans can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Click here to find out if you need a Schengen visa for your trip. Getting your documents in order early will allow you to focus on the fun stuff – exploring Croatia’s famous film locations which we will discuss next!
1. Diocletian’s Palace
One cannot talk about movie locations in Croatia without mentioning Diocletian’s Palace in Split. This 4th century palace is not just an architectural wonder, it has also served as a backdrop in HBO’s fantasy series Game of Thrones. Scenes from the fictional city of Meereen were shot here, bringing Drogon the dragon to the ancient palace grounds. Even if you’re not a GoT fan, the well-preserved Roman ruins are worth a visit and guided tours will enrich your experience.
2. Mokošica
The quiet seaside suburb of Mokošica served as a critical filming location for the WWII drama Fury starring Brad Pitt. With an ideal topography resembling war torn German terrain, parts of Mokošica became the last stand of Pitt’s Sherman tank crew in April 1945. Movie buffs will thrill at the chance to walk ground made famous by this blockbuster film. And who knows – maybe part of the smashed tank set remains somewhere nearby, waiting to be discovered!
3. Stradun
Dubrovnik’s picturesque limestone-paved pedestrian street Stradun is instantly recognizable for its cameo as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Brienne and Jaime strolled this very street, and Cersei made her memorable walk of penance here. Equal parts quaint shops and al fresco restaurants, Stradun is lively both day and night. Grab a table at one of the cafes, order some local wine and watch everyday scenes unfold with a slice of medieval atmosphere.
4. Opatija
As one of Croatia’s most elegant seaside towns, Opatija is no stranger to fame and fortune. Grand 19th century villas once hosted European aristocracy and royalty like the Habsburgs, drawing comparisons to the French Riviera. Today, films like Diana have continued Opatija’s star studded history by using the luxurious surroundings to full effect. Stroll manicured coastal promenades landscaped generations ago and enjoy the gentrified air of what was once Croatia’s premiere resort destination.
5. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Croatia’s top natural attraction, the stunning turquoise lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park hold an important spot in cinema history. Scenes from the 1959 action film The Battle of Neretva brought Plitvice’s natural beauty to movie screens around the world. As part of a wartime drama, the park was staged to resemble Bosnia but its 16 interlinked lakes and 90+ waterfalls captured viewers’ imaginations, boosting post-war tourism. Don’t miss a chance to see this exceptionally gorgeous landscape with your own eyes!
With famous filming locales big and small, Croatia offers movie lovers the chance to step into some of cinema and television’s most recognizable worlds. From King’s Landing to WWII battlegrounds and beyond, experience Croatia through the lens of Hollywood and create your own memorable movie moments among these iconic cinematic backdrops.
