7 best couples from Game of Thrones 

Oberyn and Ellaria and Daenerys and Khal from GoT (Images via Instagram/@gameofthrones)
Oberyn and Ellaria and Daenerys and Khal from GoT (Images via Instagram/@gameofthrones)

Based on George R.R. Martin's novels, Game of Thrones (GoT) is set on an epic scale involving the realms of Westeros and Essos and the vying for the Iron Throne by the Seven Kingdoms.

As the show's name suggests, the hugely influential show majorly revolves around politics, violence, and bloodshed. Therefore, even the relationships portrayed in GoT are exploitative and taboo.

Yet, quite a few relationships have given the show some much-needed intimate and sweet moments. These relationships add a depth of purity, innocence, and dramatic depth. And also prevent the show from turning one-dimensional.

Here’s a list of seven such couples who will surely melt the viewer’s heart.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Readers' discretion is advised.


From Jon and Ygritte to Samwell and Gilly, here’s a list of some of the best Game of Thrones couples.

  • Oberyn Martell and Ellaria Sand
  • Ned and Catelyn Stark
  • Grey Worm and Missandei
  • Samwell Tarly and Gilly
  • Jon Snow and Ygritte
  • Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo
  • Renly Baratheon and Loras Tyrell

1) Oberyn Martell and Ellaria Sand

Oberyn and Ellaria from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Oberyn and Ellaria from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

Based on Dorne, even though Ellaria is a paramour of Oberyn, their relationship is not one-dimensional and is based only on s**ual favors. They were one of the few couples in Game of Thrones who were openly bis**ual and believed in polyamorous relationships.

Such was their devotion that after Oberyn’s death, Ellaria pledged to cause havoc on the House of Lannister and did cause serious damage.


2) Ned and Catelyn Stark

Catelyn Clark from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Catelyn Clark from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

An honorable yet tragic couple, Ned and Catelyn’s relationship was mired by doubt as Catelyn suspected her husband’s fidelity. Even though everyone believes that Jon Snow is Ned’s illegal son, Catelyn plays the part of the dutiful wife faithfully.

Unfortunately, it is only after Bran's visions that viewers come to know that Ned never cheated on Catelyn and was protecting Jon Snow, who was actually his nephew. Tragically, Catelyn never came to know about Ned’s loyalty.


3) Grey Worm and Missandei

Missandei from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Missandei from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

A couple whose bond grows stronger due to shared traumas, Grey Worm and Missandei were enslaved people who worked for Daenerys. Their relationship is shown to be filled with sweet moments that show Missandei’s care and affection for Grey Worm. Even the physical disabilities of Grey Worm didn't stop both of them from showing affection towards one another.

Yet, in an unfortunate turn of events, Missandei is decapacitated by Cersei, and Grey Worm organizes a massacre to avenge her death.


4) Samwell Tarly and Gilly

Gilly from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Gilly from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

One of the couples in the show that don't get involved in any controversy or bloodshed, Sam and Gilly meet when Jon and Sam rescue Gilly from enemies beyond the wall. A scholar in his own right, Sam teaches Gilly, who comes from a traumatic past involving incest. And takes care of her son as his own.

Yet, when these two come on screen, viewers see some of the sweetest moments in the show’s otherwise bloody backdrop. They also get a rare happy conclusion as they amicably leave Jon Snow with their own child on the way.


5) Jon Snow and Ygritte

Jon Snow from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Jon Snow from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

One of the show’s fan-favorite couples, Ygritte’s fiery courage quickly attracts Jon’s somber nature and leads him to break his Night’s Watch vows to become a part of her Wildings. The duo shares a passionate love for each other, and the fact that the actors Kit Harrington and Rose Leslie are a real-life couple only made the fans gush even more.

Yet, in one of the most emotionally intense and tragic scenes of Game of Thrones, Ygritte’s death leaves a massive gap in Jon’s heart as he is shown to carry her in his arms even during battle.


6) Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo

Daenerys and Khal from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)
Daenerys and Khal from GoT (Image via Instagram/@game of thrones)

This couple starts on a controversial note—with Daenerys being forcefully sold and married off to Khal, leading to marital r*pe. Yet, the two learn to love each other, and they both share and accept each other’s opinions. They also have their own set of nicknames for each other.

Such is the depth of their bond that Khal fights for Westeros for Daenerys’ sake, and after Khal’s death, Daenerys—consumed with grief—even tries to bring him back from the dead.


7) Renly Baratheon and Loras Tyrell

Loras Tyrell from GoT (Image via hbo.com)
Loras Tyrell from GoT (Image via hbo.com)

The only gay couple in the show, Renly, and Loras’ relationship was hidden but a feat. In a regressive show such as this, that portrayed a highly traditional society. This relationship provided important LGBTQ+ representation.

Interspersed with gentle moments like caressing and sharing problems with each other. The only same-gender relationship was tragically cut short, like many other Game of Thrones couples.


While fans of the epic show certainly enjoy the politics and intrigue that is associated with it, this list is for viewers to also appreciate the many different shades of relationships shown in the show, which highlight the human perspective in the otherwise war-themed show.

Quick Links

Edited by Bharath S
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications