Step into Meereen: Discover Klis Fortress, the Real Game of Thrones Set

Rising dramatically between the Mosor and Kozjak mountains, Klis Fortress is not just a majestic medieval stronghold — it’s a place where real history and fantasy worlds collide. Located just 20 minutes from the city of Split, this ancient fortress overlooks the Adriatic coast and surrounding islands of Brač and Šolta, with breathtaking views that once made it a strategic military site. Today, it draws crowds not for war, but for wonder.

Originally built as a defensive stronghold, Klis Fortress has stood guard over Dalmatia for over 2,000 years. Built in the 2nd century BC, it has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, repelled invasions, and evolved through Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Today, it welcomes travelers and fantasy fans alike, drawn to its dramatic views and its unique role as one of the most iconic Game of Thrones filming locations in Split.

For fans of Game of Thrones, Klis Fortress is much more than a scenic site — it’s Meereen, the great Slaver’s Bay city where Daenerys Targaryen begins her campaign of liberation. The scenes filmed here are some of the most iconic in the series. From the gates where the Unsullied marched, to the dramatic moments when Daenerys crucified the slave masters, Klis brought Meereen to life with gritty authenticity.

What makes Klis such a perfect filming location is its raw, untouched aesthetic. The fortress didn’t require heavy CGI or set dressing — its crumbling walls and medieval atmosphere already told a powerful story. The show’s creators used real spaces within the fortress, enhancing the show’s grounded feel.

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the connection between Klis and Game of Thrones adds a layer of excitement to the visit. You can stand where Daenerys stood, look out over the same cliffs, and imagine the dragons flying overhead. For many, it’s a surreal blend of fiction and reality.

Planning a Klis Fortress tour is easy, especially if you’re staying in or near Split. The fortress is open year-round, from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM, depending on the season. Tickets are affordable (for adults there are around 10-12 EUR, and for children under 15 age around 3-5 EUR) and guided tours are available in English and other languages, which makes the experience more enriching.

When visiting, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. The terrain inside the fortress is uneven, with stone steps and gravel paths. Bring water, especially if you’re visiting during the hot Croatian summer. The site isn’t commercialized, which is part of its charm — but that also means limited amenities, so prepare accordingly.

The entire tour can take between 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace. If you’re a photography lover, plan to stay longer — the views from the fortress are absolutely stunning, particularly during golden hour when the sun dips over the Adriatic Sea. Many visitors say the Klis Fortress experience is among the highlights of their Croatian vacation.

Klis Fortress is incredibly accessible, especially if you’re based in Split. The distance between the city center and the fortress is around 12 kilometers, and there are several options for how to get there.

If you’re driving, it’s a quick and easy route up into the hills, with clear signage along the way. Parking is available near the entrance. For those relying on public transport, local buses — such as the number 22 — run from Split to Klis. The ride takes around 30–40 minutes and is very budget-friendly.

Another great option is to join a guided Game of Thrones tour from Split, many of which include transportation to Klis Fortress along with commentary about the show’s filming. These tours are ideal if you’re interested in not only the history but the behind-the-scenes of how the fortress transformed into Meereen.

For hikers or adventurers, walking or cycling up to the fortress is a more strenuous but rewarding way to arrive. The climb offers beautiful views along the way and gives you a true sense of approaching a mountain stronghold — just as ancient warriors or rebellious slaves once might have.

Once inside Klis Fortress, there’s a lot to explore. Don’t rush it — every corner has a story. The fortress is divided into upper and lower parts, each with unique features.

The main courtyard is where much of the Game of Thrones action was filmed. You’ll recognize the stone staircases and open spaces from key Meereen scenes. Walk through the medieval chapel, peer into underground storage rooms, and climb the watchtowers for panoramic views.

One often overlooked gem is the small museum inside the fortress. It showcases weapons, traditional uniforms, and historical artifacts from various eras of Klis’s past — from Roman times to the Ottoman period. It’s a great way to connect what you’re seeing with the real history that shaped the region.

For those chasing the perfect photo, the southern wall offers a cinematic view of Split and the sea beyond. At sunset, the light paints the stone walls golden, and it’s easy to see why this place continues to inspire awe, centuries after it was first built.

What makes Klis Fortress so unforgettable isn’t just its Game of Thrones fame. It’s the way it merges the ancient and the imaginative, history and Hollywood. One moment you’re picturing Daenerys Targaryen freeing the slaves of Meereen, the next you’re reflecting on the real battles and sieges that unfolded on these grounds.

Unlike many tourist destinations that feel too polished or crowded, Klis maintains an authentic, almost solemn beauty. It’s a place where the wind whispers through stone corridors, and every echo feels like a voice from the past. That emotional resonance stays with visitors long after they’ve left.

Klis is also a reminder of the richness of Croatian heritage. Often overshadowed by the beaches of the Dalmatian coast, inland sites like this fortress are just as compelling — and arguably more magical for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

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Absolutely — whether you’re a Game of Thrones enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, Klis Fortress offers an experience you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a rare place that stirs the imagination and feeds the intellect at the same time. You’ll walk away with not only great photos but a deeper appreciation for Croatian history and the real-world locations behind fantasy’s most epic moments.

So next time you’re near Split, don’t just stay by the sea. Step into Meereen, climb the ancient walls of Klis Fortress, and write your own epic chapter in this extraordinary place.