When HBO's production scouts came to Girona in 2015, they found exactly what they needed: a medieval city with narrow cobblestone streets, Romanesque cloisters, grand cathedral steps, and ancient bathhouses — all remarkably intact and largely unchanged for centuries. The result was that Girona became one of the key filming locations for Game of Thrones Season 6, doubling for three different cities in the show's fictional world.

The tourism impact has been significant. Visitor numbers surged after the episodes aired, and to this day you'll see fans with maps retracing Arya Stark's steps through the old town. Here's your guide to the three main filming locations.

Braavos: Sant Pere de Galligants & Passeig Arqueològic

The Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, a beautiful 12th-century Benedictine monastery that now houses the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, was transformed into the House of Black and White — the temple of the Many-Faced God where Arya trains with Jaqen H'ghar.

The surrounding area, including the Passeig Arqueològic (the archaeological walk along the old city walls), became the streets of Braavos. This is where the dramatic chase sequence between Arya and the Waif takes place — a heart-pounding run through narrow alleys and down steep stone steps. Walk the route today and you'll recognise almost every corner.

King's Landing: Girona Cathedral

The Cathedral of Girona and its magnificent baroque staircase became the Great Sept of Baelor in King's Landing. The 90 steps leading up to the cathedral's facade are unmistakable — this is where Cersei's famous walk of atonement ends, and where the dramatic confrontation between the Faith Militant and the Crown plays out.

The cathedral itself is worth visiting regardless of GoT connections. It houses the widest Gothic nave in the world (at 22 metres) and the extraordinary "Creation Tapestry" dating from the 11th century.

Oldtown & the Citadel: Banys Àrabs

The Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths), a 12th-century Romanesque bathhouse inspired by earlier Moorish designs, became the Citadel library where Samwell Tarly studies to become a Maester. The atmospheric columns and arched windows of the bathhouse translate perfectly to the ancient scholarly setting of Oldtown.

The Arab Baths are one of Girona's most beautiful small monuments — a peaceful space with a central pool surrounded by slender columns supporting an octagonal cupola. Even without the GoT connection, it's one of the must-see spots in the city.

Visiting the Locations

All three locations are within easy walking distance of each other in Girona's old town (Barri Vell). You can comfortably visit all of them in a single morning or afternoon. The cathedral and Arab Baths charge small entrance fees; Sant Pere de Galligants has a modest admission charge for the museum.

Tip: visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and get the best photos. The light on the cathedral steps is especially beautiful in the golden hour before sunset.

Whether you're a GoT superfan or simply someone who appreciates medieval architecture, these locations showcase why Girona is one of Spain's most underrated cities. The show's producers could have gone anywhere in the world — they chose Girona for good reason.