Gaming Destinations

The Witcher Franchise

3 min read

Real-World Locations That Inspired The Witcher Franchise

Discover the European roots behind The Witcher’s breathtaking landscapes.
Explore the real-life destinations across Central and Eastern Europe that inspired the world of The Witcher — from Polish castles to ancient forests.

Overview: Gaming Tourism Meets The Witcher

The Witcher series, created by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski and brought to life by CD Projekt Red, is deeply rooted in Slavic mythology, medieval Europe, and real-world locations. Whether you’re a fan of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt or the Netflix adaptation, this guide will help you explore real-world locations you can actually visit.

1. Malbork Castle, Poland – Kaer Morhen’s Real-Life Twin

Region: Northern Poland Inspiration For: Kaer Morhen

Malbork Castle, once the seat of the Teutonic Knights, is often cited as a visual reference for Kaer Morhen, the Witchers’ fortress. Its Gothic architecture, sprawling structure, and isolated setting echo the design seen in The Witcher 3.

Why Visit?

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Largest castle in the world by land area

  • Easily accessible from Gdańsk, Poland

2. Białowieża Forest, Poland/Belarus – Brokilon Forest

Region: Eastern Poland / Western Belarus
Inspiration For: Brokilon Forest

One of the last and largest remaining parts of the primeval forest that once stretched across Europe, Białowieża mirrors the enchanted Brokilon Forest — home of the dryads. This wild and untouched forest captures the same mythical, ancient feel.

Activities:

  • Wildlife spotting (European bison!)

  • Forest hiking tours

  • Eco-lodges and cultural heritage walks

3. Kraków, Poland – Novigrad’s Cultural Echo

Region: Southern Poland
Inspiration For: Novigrad

While Novigrad is a composite city, Kraków’s medieval charm, market squares, cathedrals, and city walls feel instantly familiar. The vibe, architecture, and religious tension depicted in the game have clear parallels.

Highlights:

  • Wawel Castle

  • Gothic churches and town squares

  • Witcher-themed walking tours available

4. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia – Skellige Isles Aesthetic

Region: Central Croatia
Inspiration For: Skellige Isles

The rugged beauty and cascading lakes of Plitvice capture the essence of the Skellige Isles. While the in-game region leans more Nordic, the dramatic landscapes and waterfalls of Croatia closely match Skellige’s mystic atmosphere.

📍 Combine this with a road trip through the Dalmatian Coast for Witcher-inspired vistas.

5. Slovakian High Tatras – The Blue Mountains

Region: Slovakia
Inspiration For: The Blue Mountains

Mentioned in Sapkowski’s books and hinted at in the games, the Blue Mountains are home to elves and magic. The High Tatras range in Slovakia offers remote, mystical alpine beauty — perfect for a Witcher-style hike.

Travel Tip:
Stay in traditional Slovak chalets and explore folklore museums along the way.

Map of Witcher-Inspired Locations in Europe

Coming Soon: Interactive map highlighting all Witcher-related travel spots, tours, and landmarks.

Games Covered

This guide references settings from:

Plan Your Witcher-Themed Travel

Suggested Itinerary:

Travel Tip: Several local tours now include Witcher-themed activities. Search for Witcher filming locations tours or Witcher-inspired travel packages in Poland and Croatia.

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