Seville: Games of Thrones and Roman Empire Italica Tour

The Seville: Games of Thrones and Roman Empire Italica Tour offers an engaging half-day experience that combines history and pop culture. For just $18.99 per person, visitors spend approximately 2 hours exploring Italica, the first Roman city in the Iberian peninsula and the birthplace of Emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Departing from Seville, this tour emphasizes Italyca’s archaeological significance and its role as a filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones series.

With a duration suitable for those with limited time, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a compact yet enriching visit. It includes skip-the-line access and a guided experience led by a Blue Badge guide. While the price is budget-friendly and the sites impressive, potential visitors should be aware that some reviews mention issues with the guide’s punctuality and conduct. Still, the highlights at Italica’s amphitheater, mosaics, and medieval fortress make this tour a worthwhile addition to a Seville itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $18.99 per person for a rich cultural experience
• Approximately 2 hours long, ideal for travelers with limited time
• Visit the archaeological site of Italica, the first Roman city in Iberia
• Explore the Roman amphitheater, the third largest in the world
• Discover filming locations of Game of Thrones, including the Dragonpit scene
• Includes skip-the-line entry with a guided tour by a Blue Badge guide

Discovering Italica: Seville’s Roman Treasure

This tour begins at the Conjunto Arqueológico de Italica, located just outside Seville in Santiponce. The site is renowned for its Roman ruins, including a massive amphitheater that once held 25,000 spectators. Visitors get a detailed look at mosaics and ‘domus’, the ancient Roman houses, which showcase the artistry and daily life of Italyca’s inhabitants.

The guided tour emphasizes Italica’s historical importance as the first Roman city in the Iberian peninsula and the birthplace of Emperors Trajan and Hadrian. The site’s amphitheater is a highlight, especially for fans of Ancient Rome and Game of Thrones, as it served as the Dragonpit in Season 7. The guide provides insights into the archaeological features, making the visit educational and visually impressive.

The Roman Amphitheater: A Majestic Cultural Landmark

The Roman amphitheater at Italica remains the third largest in the world, capable of hosting up to 25,000 spectators. Its enormous scale and preservation make it a compelling sight for history buffs and fans of ancient architecture. The amphitheater’s role in Game of Thrones as the setting for the Dragonpit adds an extra layer of interest for TV fans.

Visitors can stand in the arena and imagine the spectacles that once took place there. The size and grandeur highlight Roman engineering skill, and the site’s restored sections help bring the past to life. The tour includes time to explore these impressive ruins comfortably, with the guide sharing stories about their significance.

The Medieval Fortress ‘San Isidoro del Campo’

After exploring Italica, the tour offers an optional visit to San Isidoro del Campo, a restored medieval fortress monastery. This location provides a different historical perspective, with its medieval architecture and religious heritage. The visit is conducted by minivan, making the transition smooth and convenient.

While the main focus remains on Roman Italyca, this stop adds variety and context to the historical timeline. Travelers interested in medieval history will find this segment particularly engaging, and the scenic drive allows for a brief break from walking.

Game of Thrones Filming Sites: The Dragonpit at Italica

A major draw of this tour is the connection to Game of Thrones. The Roman ruins of Italica served as the set for the Dragonpit, where a key summit among characters occurs in season seven. Fans of the series get to see the actual ruins that brought fantasy characters to life.

This filming spot is highlighted as a unique feature of the tour, blending ancient history with modern pop culture. The guide explains the series’ connection to Italica, enhancing the experience for TV enthusiasts.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Conjunto Arqueológico de Italica at Av. Extremadura, 2, 41970 Santiponce, close to public transportation options. The activity guarantees a small group of no more than 60 travelers, with most bookings made 22 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

The return is to the same meeting point, making the logistics straightforward. The tour is easy to join and suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

Tour Pacing and Duration

Designed as a shorter, half-day tour, this experience lasts about 2 hours, making it perfect for those with limited time in Seville. The itinerary balances site exploration with storytelling, ensuring a dynamic pace that keeps visitors engaged without feeling rushed.

The guided tour is led by a Blue Badge guide, who shares insights into Roman and medieval history as well as Game of Thrones trivia. The timing is flexible enough to allow for photo stops and personal exploration within the guided framework.

Accessibility and Comfort

The tour is accessible to most travelers and accommodates service animals. The meeting point is near public transportation, easing access for visitors staying in the city. The short duration and manageable walking distances make it suitable for a broad audience.

While some reviews mention issues with the guide’s punctuality and conduct, the tour’s structure and content remain compelling. Advance booking and early arrival can help ensure a smooth experience.

Pricing, Inclusions, and What’s Not

At $18.99 per person, this tour offers exceptional value for site access, guided insights, and skip-the-line tickets. The fee includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, ensuring transparency.

Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The guide provides informative commentary throughout, but guests should consider bringing water or snacks for comfort.

The Guide Experience: Strengths and Weaknesses

The Blue Badge guide leads the tour, offering expertise in Roman history and pop culture. However, some reviews highlight punctuality issues and brief explanations. Despite this, the site descriptions and storytelling about Game of Thrones filming remain strong points.

Choosing this tour depends on expectations: those seeking a budget-friendly, efficient visit to Italica with pop culture highlights will likely enjoy it. Travelers looking for more personalized guidance may want to verify guide reviews or consider alternative options.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility allows for adjustments in travel plans. The tour is provided by Naturanda Turismo Ambiental, known for organizing environmentally conscious tours.

Final Thoughts on the Italica and Game of Thrones Tour

This half-day tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Roman ruins and Game of Thrones filming locations outside Seville. It combines history, culture, and pop culture lore within a manageable 2-hour window. The site access and guided commentary make it a solid choice for history buffs and TV fans alike.

While guide punctuality may be a concern, the impressive archaeological sites and storied location at Italica compensate for this. The low price point and easy logistics appeal to budget-conscious travelers who want a focused, informative excursion.

This tour is an excellent add-on for visitors eager to connect with ancient Roman history and famous TV scenes in a convenient format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those able to walk and stand for the duration.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours long.

What is included in the price?
The admission ticket, guided tour, and skip-the-line access are included.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Where does the tour start?
At the Conjunto Arqueológico de Italica in Santiponce, near public transportation.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the start.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, a Blue Badge guide leads the tour with expertise, although some reviews mention punctuality issues.

Can I visit San Isidoro del Campo?
Yes, there is an optional visit by minivan to this medieval fortress monastery after exploring Italica.

Is this tour good for Game of Thrones fans?
Absolutely, as it features the Dragonpit filming location used in season seven.