Best Time to Visit
May to June, September to October
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Croatian
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik isn't just a city; it's a living museum carved from limestone and lapped by the Adriatic Sea. Walking the 2-kilometer circuit of its medieval walls is a rite of passage, offering dizzying views over the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the shimmering sea, and the imposing bulk of Fort Lovrijenac, the 'Gibraltar of Dubrovnik.' The main artery, Stradun, is a polished limestone thoroughfare flanked by Baroque churches and centuries-old buildings, where the evening light turns the stone a warm gold and the sound of footsteps echoes through history.
Beyond its cinematic beauty, Dubrovnik is a city of layers. It's the thrill of taking the cable car up Mount Srđ for a panoramic sunset that stretches to the Elafiti Islands, followed by a quiet moment in the cloistered garden of the Franciscan Monastery. It's the escape to the lush, peacock-filled nature reserve of Lokrum Island, just a 15-minute ferry ride away, where you can swim in the crystal-clear 'Dead Sea' saltwater lake. This UNESCO World Heritage site masterfully balances its monumental past with vibrant modern life, from chic cliffside bars to intimate konobas serving fresh seafood.
Why Visit Dubrovnik?
Walk the Iconic City Walls: Experience Dubrovnik from its most famous vantage point. The 2km circuit offers unparalleled views of the Old Town's rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and historic forts like Minceta Tower and Bokar. It's a physical journey through history and the best way to grasp the city's layout and defensive genius.
Immerse Yourself in Game of Thrones Lore: Step directly into Westeros. Fort Lovrijenac doubles as the Red Keep, the Jesuit Staircase is where Cersei began her Walk of Shame, and the harbor walls were used for Blackwater Bay scenes. Guided tours reveal filming secrets, but you can easily spot locations on your own with a map.
Explore the Car-Free Old Town (Stari Grad): Lose yourself in a labyrinth of polished limestone streets (Stradun), discover hidden courtyards, and visit architectural marvels like the Rector's Palace, the Baroque St. Blaise's Church, and the 15th-century Onofrio's Fountain. The entire area is a pedestrian-only UNESCO zone.
Swim in the Adriatic's Crystal Waters: Dubrovnik's coastline is dotted with stunning swimming spots. From the iconic Buža Bar, carved into the cliffs outside the city walls, to the smooth rocks at Banje Beach just outside the Ploče Gate, and the serene 'Dead Sea' lake on Lokrum Island.
Take the Cable Car to Mount Srđ: For the definitive panoramic view, ride the cable car to the summit of Mount Srđ. The vista encompasses the entire Old Town, the Elafiti Islands, and the distant coastline. Visit the Homeland War Museum in the historic fort and stay for a sunset drink at the restaurant.
Discover the Island of Lokrum: A 15-minute ferry ride transports you to a peaceful, forested nature reserve. Explore the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, stroll through a botanical garden, visit the 'Iron Throne' exhibit, and swim in the unique, buoyant saltwater lake known as the 'Dead Sea.'
Dubrovnik is Known For
Ready to explore Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik Neighborhoods
Old Town (Stari Grad)
The historic, walled heart of Dubrovnik and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its character is defined by majestic limestone buildings, Baroque churches, and the bustling, polished-stone Stradun promenade. The vibe is a captivating mix of monumental history, tourist energy, and local life in its quieter side streets.
Highlights:
Best for:
Ploče
An elegant, upscale neighborhood just east of the Old Town, clinging to the cliffs along the Adriatic. It's home to luxury hotels, secluded villas, and some of the city's finest restaurants. The vibe is sophisticated and tranquil, with breathtaking sea views and exclusive access to pristine swimming coves.
Highlights:
Best for:
Lapad
A relaxed, green peninsula west of the Old Town, centered around a large, sandy-pebbly beach and a lush, pedestrian-only promenade lined with pine trees, cafes, and restaurants. The vibe is family-friendly and resort-like, offering a more laid-back alternative to the bustling historic center.
Highlights:
Best for:
Gruž
The city's working port area, located in a deep natural harbor northwest of the Old Town. It's less polished but authentically local, with a bustling market, ferry terminals, and industrial charm. The vibe is practical, lively, and offers a glimpse into everyday Dubrovnik life away from the tourist epicenter.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Buy the Dubrovnik Pass: It includes a 1-day City Walls ticket, entry to several key museums (Rector's Palace, etc.), and 24-hour bus transport. It pays for itself quickly and saves you time in ticket lines.
- •Walk the City Walls early or late: Arrive right at opening (8 AM) or in the late afternoon (after 4 PM) to avoid the worst of the crowds, cruise ship groups, and the midday summer heat.
- •Eat like a local in Gruž or Lapad: For more authentic and affordable Dalmatian cuisine, venture to family-run konobas in the Gruž or Lapad neighborhoods, away from the premium-priced Old Town restaurants.
- •Use the Libertas bus app: Purchase bus tickets easily on the 'Libertas' app. A single ticket is cheaper on the app than from the driver, and you can validate it by scanning the QR code upon boarding.
- •Bring swim shoes: Many of Dubrovnik's best swimming spots, like the rocks near Buža Bar or the 'Dead Sea' on Lokrum, are accessed via smooth but sometimes sharp rocks. Swim shoes make entering the water much easier.
- •Visit the Old Town in the evening: After the day-trippers and cruise passengers leave, the Old Town becomes magical. The streets are quieter, the buildings are beautifully lit, and you can enjoy dinner or a drink in a more relaxed atmosphere.
- •Book accommodations with air conditioning: This is non-negotiable for summer visits. Dubrovnik's stone buildings retain heat, and nights can be warm. Ensure your hotel or apartment has reliable AC.
- •Take the local ferry to the Elafiti Islands: For a fantastic, affordable day trip, take the Jadrolinija car ferry (not the tourist catamaran) from Gruž Harbor to islands like Šipan or Lopud. It's a fraction of the price and a true local experience.
- •Respect the 'No Drinks' rule on the walls: You cannot bring large bottles or drinks onto the City Walls. Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it at the fountains inside the Old Town to stay hydrated.
- •Learn a few Croatian phrases: A simple 'Hvala' (Thank you - pronounced 'HVAH-lah') or 'Dobar dan' (Good day) goes a long way and is appreciated by locals.
Dubrovnik Food Scene
Dubrovnik's cuisine is classic Dalmatian, centered on the freshest seafood, locally grown vegetables, olive oil, and herbs. Dining is a social, leisurely affair. While the Old Town has many tourist-focused spots, venturing to the surrounding neighborhoods reveals authentic, family-run konobas (taverns) serving time-honored recipes.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Konoba
- • Konoba Dubrava (in Žarkovica village) for peka
- • Konoba Lokanda Peskarija (Old Town port) for buzara
- • Konoba Tabak (Gruž) for grilled fish
Look for 'konobas' in the Gruž or Lapad areas for better value and a more local crowd than in the Old Town center.
Fine Dining
- • 360° Restaurant (on the city walls)
- • Restaurant Nautika (by the Pile Gate)
- • Proto (historic Old Town setting)
Book well in advance, especially for a table at sunset. These restaurants offer exceptional seafood and views, with prices to match.
Street Food & Quick Bites
- • Barba (Old Town) for fried squid sandwiches
- • Buffet Škola (Old Town) for cheap slices of pizza
- • Gelateria Dubrovnik (Old Town) for ice cream
Perfect for a quick, affordable lunch while exploring. 'Barba' is a local institution for its fresh, fast seafood.
Wine & Oysters
- • Oysters from Ston (often served at Bota Šare)
- • Local wines like Pošip (white) or Plavac Mali (red)
- • Wine Bar D'Vino (Old Town) for tasting flights
Take a day trip to Ston or Mali Ston to visit the oyster farms, or enjoy them fresh in Dubrovnik at restaurants like Bota Šare.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
Spring
Spring brings mild, pleasant weather with blooming flowers and fewer tourists. The sea is still cool for swimming, but it's perfect for sightseeing and hiking.
Pros:
- + Comfortable temperatures (15-22°C)
- + Fewer crowds
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Lush, green landscapes
Cons:
- - Sea is chilly for swimming
- - Occasional rain showers
- - Some beach bars/restaurants may not be open early season
Summer
Hot, sunny, and bustling. This is peak season with long days, warm sea temperatures, and a full calendar of festivals and events. It's also the most crowded and expensive time.
Pros:
- + Ideal for swimming and sunbathing
- + Warm sea temperatures (~25°C)
- + Long daylight hours
- + Vibrant festival atmosphere (Dubrovnik Summer Festival)
Cons:
- - Extremely crowded, especially with cruise ships
- - High prices for flights and hotels
- - Intense midday heat
- - Long lines for major attractions
Autumn
Often considered the best time to visit. The weather remains warm and sunny, the sea is still swimmable from the summer's heat, and the summer crowds have dissipated.
Pros:
- + Warm, pleasant weather (18-25°C)
- + Sea is warm for swimming
- + Fewer tourists than summer
- + Harvest season for food and wine
Cons:
- - Days start getting shorter
- - Increased chance of rain in late October/November
- - Some seasonal businesses start to close
Winter
Quiet, mild, and atmospheric. Dubrovnik has a peaceful, local feel. While not beach weather, it's great for cultural exploration without the crowds, though some tourist services are limited.
Pros:
- + Very few tourists
- + Lowest accommodation prices
- + Mild temperatures (8-13°C)
- + Magical Christmas market in the Old Town
Cons:
- - Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions have reduced hours or are closed
- - Cool and can be rainy/windy
- - Sea is too cold for swimming
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Day Trips from Dubrovnik
Ston & Mali Ston
1 hour by car or bus
Famous for its impressive 5.5 km long defensive walls (the 'European Wall of China'), ancient salt pans, and some of the best oysters and mussels in Croatia. It's a historic town with a unique culinary claim to fame.
Elafiti Islands (Šipan, Lopud, Koločep)
20-50 min by local ferry (Jadrolinija) from Gruž Harbor
A tranquil archipelago of car-free (or nearly car-free) islands offering pristine nature, sandy beaches, pine forests, and sleepy villages. Perfect for hiking, cycling, and swimming away from the mainland crowds.
Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina)
2.5 hours by car or organized tour
A journey into another culture and history. Mostar is renowned for its iconic 16th-century Stari Most (Old Bridge), rebuilt after the war, and its fascinating blend of Ottoman and European influences in the old bazaar.
Dubrovnik Budget Guide
Dubrovnik is one of the most expensive destinations in Croatia, especially within the Old Town and during peak summer. Costs can be managed by staying outside the walls, eating in local konobas, and using public transport.
Budget
€60-90 per person for hostels, self-catering, buses, and cheap eats.
per day
Mid-Range
€120-200 per person for a private room/apartment, meals at mid-range konobas, some taxis, and attraction tickets.
per day
Luxury
€300+ per person for 4/5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and premium experiences.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Stay in Lapad or Gruž for significantly cheaper accommodation than the Old Town.
- •Buy groceries from the Gruž Market for picnic lunches.
- •The Dubrovnik Pass offers significant savings on attractions and transport.
- •Walk whenever possible; the Old Town and nearby areas are very walkable.
- •Drink tap water; it's perfectly safe and saves money on bottled water.
Dubrovnik Hidden Gems
Buža Bar (Bar 'Hole in the Wall')
A legendary, no-frills bar literally carved into the cliffs outside the southern city walls, accessible only through a small 'hole' (buža) in the stone.
It offers the most unique and atmospheric spot for a drink in Dubrovnik. You sit on rocky ledges overlooking the open Adriatic, watching climbers and swimmers below. It's pure, unpretentious magic, especially at sunset.
Fort Revelin Terrace
The large, flat roof terrace of Fort Revelin, located at the eastern entrance to the Old Town.
It's a lesser-known, spacious alternative to the crowded city walls for panoramic views. It's often quieter, offers a great perspective of the Old Town rooftops and the harbor, and sometimes hosts cultural events.
The War Photo Limited Museum
A poignant photography gallery in the Old Town dedicated to photojournalism from the Yugoslav Wars and other conflicts.
It provides a powerful, necessary, and sobering counterpoint to the city's ancient history, offering deep insight into the 1991-1995 siege of Dubrovnik and the human cost of war. It's moving and educational.
Beach at Sveti Jakov
A beautiful, secluded pebble beach located about a 20-minute walk (including 150 steps down) from the Ploče Gate, east of the Old Town.
It's far less crowded than Banje Beach, offers stunning views back towards the walled city, and has a great beach bar/restaurant. The walk down (and back up) keeps the masses away.
Lokrum Island's 'Dead Sea' (Mrtvo More)
A small, landlocked saltwater lake on the island of Lokrum, connected to the sea by underground fissures.
The water is significantly warmer and saltier than the surrounding sea, making it incredibly buoyant and fun to float in. It's a unique geological feature and a peaceful spot hidden within the island's pine forest.
Dubrovnik Culture & Customs
Dubrovnik's culture is proud and resilient, shaped by its history as the independent Republic of Ragusa. There's a deep respect for tradition, heritage, and the city's monumental beauty. Locals are generally warm and hospitable, though the influx of tourism has created a complex dynamic. The pace is leisurely, especially when it comes to dining and socializing.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers and staff with 'Dobar dan' (Good day).
- •Dress modestly when entering churches (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 10% for good service in restaurants is standard.
- •Be patient and respectful; service can be slower-paced than in some countries.
- •Speak calmly and avoid loud, boisterous behavior in the historic center, especially at night.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Dubrovnik
Is Dubrovnik very crowded?
Yes, especially during peak summer (July-August) when multiple cruise ships can dock daily. The Old Town and City Walls get extremely congested between 10 AM and 4 PM. To avoid crowds, visit in shoulder seasons (May-June, Sept-Oct), explore early in the morning or in the evening, and venture to neighborhoods outside the walls.
Do I need to buy tickets for the City Walls in advance?
It's highly recommended, especially in summer. You can purchase tickets online through the official Dubrovnik City Walls website or as part of the Dubrovnik Pass. This allows you to skip the often-long ticket office queues at the entrance near the Pile Gate.
Can I use Euros in Dubrovnik?
Yes. Croatia adopted the Euro (€) as its official currency in January 2023. All prices are now in Euros. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller markets, buses (if not using the app), and tips.
Is Dubrovnik safe?
Dubrovnik is an extremely safe city for travelers. Violent crime is very rare. Standard precautions apply: be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Stradun, don't leave valuables unattended on beaches, and be careful on the slippery limestone streets, especially when wet.
How many days do I need in Dubrovnik?
A minimum of 2 full days is recommended. Spend one day exploring the Old Town and walking the City Walls, and another day for a trip to Lokrum Island or taking the cable car. With 3-4 days, you can add a day trip to the Elafiti Islands or Ston and enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace.
Is the Dubrovnik Card (Dubrovnik Pass) worth it?
Absolutely, if you plan to visit the City Walls and a couple of museums. The 1-day pass costs about €35 and includes the Walls (normally €27), entry to several key museums, and 24-hour bus transport. It saves money and time. Calculate based on your planned itinerary.
What is the best way to get around?
On foot within the Old Town and nearby coastal paths. The Libertas bus network is efficient for traveling between neighborhoods (Old Town, Lapad, Gruž, etc.). Taxis are available but pricey. The city is not ideal for driving; parking is expensive and scarce, especially near the Old Town.
Are there sandy beaches in Dubrovnik?
True sandy beaches are rare. Most are pebble or concrete/rock platforms. The most famous 'sandy' beach is Šunj on Lopud Island (a day trip). On the mainland, Lapad Bay has a long, sandy-pebbly beach, and Copacabana Beach has some imported sand. Bring swim shoes for comfort on the rocks.
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