Long before I planned an adventurous trip through Croatia, I knew I one day had to visit the stunningly beautiful seaside town of Dubrovnik, and luckily it finally happened this summer.
And, though Dubrovnik might be one of the most hyped destinations of the past few years, it one hundred per cent lived up to my sky-high expectations.
The mesmerising fortified town next to the Adriatic – internationally known as Kings Landing in HBO’s blockbuster series Game of Thrones, is without only one bit of doubt the most charming old town I ever set foot in.
In my opinion, Dubrovnik is best uncovered at a slow pace, by taking uncountable strolls through the characteristic streets of the old town, admiring its fascinating medieval interior.
And while the aged streets and laneways on its own are an excellent reason to visit Dubrovnik, there’s so much more that leaves travellers in awe.
The town has no shortage of incredible beaches, is home to an amazing viewpoint in Mount Srd, while also providing access to Lokrum Island, for those that prefer to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Here’s my traveller’s guide to Dubrovnik, including the best things to see and do, where to stay, when to visit, and how to get there, as well as essential information and tips that help you make the most out of your time here.
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WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK
In the last few years, Dubrovnik has seen a major increase in popularity.
As a result, you’ll find a great selection of excellent accommodations, including cosy Airbnb’s and guest houses, budget-friendly hostels, as well as high-end hotels for those looking for some extra comfort.
GUESTHOUSE
Guesthouse Rustico | Set in a 14th-century building, Guesthouse Rustico offers a cosy guesthouse at just a stone’s throw from all the best things to do in Dubrovnik. On top of that, it is spacious, air-conditioned, as well as fairly budget-friendly.
HOSTEL
Hostel Angelina Old Town | I stayed at Hostel Angelina Old Town and enjoyed the welcoming staff, comfortable beds, as well as spacious common area. Add the fact that you don’t have to break the bank, and Hostel Angelina Old Town is a winner. In addition, the staff regularly organizes fun activities for its guests.
Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Dubrovnik.
12 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
1 | WALK THE DUBROVNIK CITY WALLS
It is fair to say that a visit to Dubrovnik isn’t complete without a walk atop the town’s incredibly charming fortified city walls.
Though I was in awe straightaway when arriving in Dubrovnik’s ‘picture-perfect’ old town, I somehow intuitively decided to walk the historic city walls at the end of my trip.
And it was definitely worth the wait.
It was in fact, the absolute best possible way to end my time in Dubrovnik.
From the moment I made my entrance to the walls, I was welcomed by the most amazing views of Dubrovnik old town, with its aged white-washed buildings and iconic terracotta roofs – as well as a mesmerizing panoramic view over the shimmering Adriatic.
Since that point, the views only became better and better, with my absolute favourite views coming from the summit at Fort Minceta.
Do however take into account, that it takes roughly 2 hours to finish the 2-kilometre loop, and I recommend doing it in the late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography, and it’s significantly less warm.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Dubrovnik City Walls
Opening hours | Daily 08:00 – 19:30, depending on the time of year
Cost | 200 HRK (€27,-) per person – includes entrance to Fort Lovrjenac
2 | ADMIRE DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN’S INTERIOR
Any trip to Dubrovnik should obviously involve at least a full day to explore the incredibly charming architecture and ‘picture-perfect’ laneways of Dubrovnik old town.
Seeing the time-worn streets of Dubrovnik old town for the first time is an unforgettable experience, and almost impossible to describe in words (I’m really trying my best, folks).
Dotted throughout these picturesque cobblestone streets, you’ll find a wide array of incredibly charming historic buildings, each more beautiful than the last.
That’s why I’d sincerely recommend taking the time to take it all in; it truly is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik in my view.
Some of my favourite landmarks in Dubrovnik old town include:
Franciscan Monastery | Situated directly after the Pile gate, this enchanting 14th-century monastery houses a historic pharmacy, library and church.
Large Onofrio’s Fountain | Built in 1438 as part of a water supply system, the Large Onofrio’s Fountain is considered one of Dubrovnik’s most famous landmarks.
Jesuit staircase | An elegant Baroque staircase that connects the Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius with the lower-lying Gunduliceva Poljana square.
Rector’s Palace | Dating back to the 14th century, this palace used to serve as the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa.
Dubrovnik Clock Tower | This towering traditional clock tower was built in 1385 and is considered one of the most iconic buildings in Dubrovnik.
Church of St. Blaise | Built in 1715 in ornate baroque style, this church was dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint.
Dominican Monastery | Situated in the eastern part of town, the impressive Dominican Monastery was built around the same time as the city walls.
Sponza Palace | Designed in Dubrovnik’s iconic Gothic-Renaissance style, Sponza Palace is one of the few buildings in the old town to survive the 1667 earthquake.
Yup, that’s a lot to process! Fortunately, the historic old town is pretty compact, making it the perfect size to navigate in a few hours.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Dubrovnik Old Town
Recommended tour | This 1.5-hour walking tour of Dubrovnik old town includes most of the above-mentioned sites. Prices and availability here
3 | SAMPLE DUBROVNIK’S BEST GELATO AT PEPPINO’S
A refreshing scoop (or two) of gelato after a long day of exploring is one of my favourite things to do during my travels, and this was obviously also the case in Dubrovnik.
Long-time readers of Where the Souls Wander will know that I take it quite seriously to find the best-regarded gelato shops, meaning you’re pretty lucky to stumble upon this post.
Set in the historic laneways of Dubrovnik’s old town is Peppino’s, a small artisanal gelato boutique that is, without doubt, the best place to visit if you’re after a refreshing treat during the fierce summer heat.
Be warned though, Peppino’s serves a great variety of delicious, creamy gelato, making it quite the challenge to pick your flavours – I eventually ended up here two days in a row.
Lemon Pie premium and Raffaello are two of my favourite flavours, but if you’re after something more uncommon, try a scoop of the Mozart – marzipan, pistachio and nougat, or Jaffa cake.
Additionally, there is a variety of vegan, gluten-free, and organic options available – so you won’t have to worry about that.
Another great gelateria that is worth trying in Dubrovnik is Dolce Vita, situated just off the lively Stradun.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Peppino’s Confectionary Lovers’ Club
Opening hours | Daily 11:00 – 22:00
Cost | 15 HRK (€2,10) per scoop
4 | JOIN A GAME OF THRONES TOUR
If you’re familiar with HBO’s blockbuster series Game of Thrones, you’ll damn good know that Dubrovnik doubles as the capital of Westeros, Kings Landing.
As someone who admires the Game of Thrones series, walking among these extraordinary filming locations in real life, gave me deja vu moments on multiple occasions.
Though I enjoyed uncovering those filming locations on my own, I’d highly recommend joining a guided walking tour that takes you along the series best-known scenes and filming locations.
Some of the scenes and locations that you’ll visit on a 2-hour Game of Thrones tour include the Red Keep, Blackwater Bay, Cersei’s infamous ‘walk of shame’, as well as Kings Landings gate amongst plenty others.
While the series has already come to an end (don’t worry, no spoilers here), joining a tour is still easily one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik.
So if you’re into Game of Thrones like I do, make sure you step in the footsteps of one of your favourite characters.
ESSENTIALS
Recommended tour | This 2-hour Game of Thrones tour takes you along the most important scenes and filming locations in Dubrovnik. Prices and availability here
Cost | 150 HRK (€20,-) per person
Departure times | Daily 12:00 and 17:00
5 | WALK THE STRADUN
It is inevitable that your first introduction to Dubrovnik includes a walk along the charming Stradun, which to me is the warmest possible welcome to the old town.
Running straight through Dubrovnik old town is Stradun, a charming street that is considered the beating heart of Dubrovnik, connecting Pile gate in the west with Ploče gate in the east.
The broad 292 meters long street is the heart of the action and probably where you’ll spend most of your time in Dubrovnik, as it leads to all the best things to see and do in Dubrovnik.
During the summer months though, the Stradun is packed with travellers, making it slightly harder to fully appreciate the wonderful street and its surrounding beauty.
But don’t worry, it takes only one turn to an adjacent laneway or time-worn stairway, and a whole different Dubrovnik unfolds – there truly is something magical about the old town.
Make sure to wander the streets with a camera in hands – you surely stumble upon authentic daily life around every corner.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Stradun, Dubrovnik
6 | ADMIRE THE VIEWS FROM MOUNT SRD
Rising high above Dubrovnik old town, providing the most incredible views of the whole of Dubrovnik, as well as Lokrum in the distance is Mount Srd, an extraordinary vantage point to watch a Croatian sunset unfold.
But not so long ago, Mount Srd was home to one of the fiercest battles during the Homeland War, namely the siege of Dubrovnik.
And though I prefer telling you only about exciting destinations and experiences, I also feel a strong obligation to inform and educate on major historical events.
If you’re curious to learn about the history, make sure to head over to the Napoleonic Fort Imperial, that houses a permanent exhibition that is dedicated to the siege of Dubrovnik in the 90s.
Luckily, Mount Srd is now on peaceful ground, and a visit is all about the mesmerizing panoramic view of Dubrovnik old town and the surrounding islands.
Every evening, locals and travellers alike gather here, as the sun slowly sinks into the Adriatic – and I must admit it, it’s one of the best travel experiences in Dubrovnik.
The easiest and quickest way to the summit of Mount Srd is by jumping aboard the Dubrovnik cable car (more on that later).
For adventurous minded people (like me), or those on a budget, take a moderate hike that takes you to summit in roughly an hour, depending on your physical condition.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Mount Srd, Dubrovnik
7 | RIDE THE DUBROVNIK CABLE CAR
The best viewpoint to experience a sunset in Dubrovnik is without question on Mount Srd, and a ride on Dubrovnik’s cable car is by far the easiest way to get there, making it an excellent option for those on a tight time schedule.
Built back in 1969 to transfer passengers from Dubrovnik old town to the summit of Mount Srd, the cable car is now an indispensable part of the city, transferring nearly a thousand visitors daily.
Though the approximately 778-meter journey takes only 5 minutes to complete, the exceptional panoramic views from the cable car are worth every penny of the somewhat expensive ticket.
On top of Mount Srd, you’ll discover two panoramic terraces that both house a selection of telescopes, and on a clear day, you can see up to 60 kilometres in the distance.
Tickets are easy to obtain at both stations, and I would highly recommend buying a one-way ticket in the first instance. By doing so, you can opt for the easy hike down if you change your mind on the top.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Dubrovnik Cable Car, Mount Srđ
Opening hours | Daily 09:00 – 00:00
Cost | One way 70 HRK (€9,30) | Return 140 HRK (€18,60)
8 | SPEND A DAY CHILLING AND SWIMMING AT LOKRUM ISLAND
Only a 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Harbour lies Lokrum Island, a stunningly beautiful island that makes a perfect place for those that need a little break from the crowds in Dubrovnik.
Lokrum Island is a wonderful place to visit for an afternoon of swimming and relaxing, and accordingly extremely popular to travellers and locals alike.
Not only does it provide a lush forest of black ash pines and olives trees, and incredible rocky beaches, but it also houses an ancient Benedictine Monastery, an impressive botanical garden, as well a small saltwater lake known as the Dead Sea.
Those interested in Game of Thrones should know that the island of Lokrum was used as the city of Qarth, and at present, the medieval Benedictine Monastery is home to the series legendary Iron Throne.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Lokrum island, Dubrovnik
Cost | 150 HRK (€20,-) for a return ticket – ferry departing at Dubrovnik Old Port
Departure time | Leaves every 15 minutes
Bring | Swimwear, a towel and a good book
9 | KAYAK AROUND DUBROVNIK
One of the best activities in Dubrovnik includes an adventurous Kayak tour that takes you around Dubrovnik’s mesmerising walls, as well as beautiful Lokrum Island that is dotted just off its coast.
Those looking for a quick adventure, away from the packed streets of the old town will have an excellent time exploring the stunning highlights that are found along the Adriatic Coast.
The relaxing, yet breathtaking journey takes you to a handful of impressive sites, including the stunning Betina Cave, Lokrum Island, while also providing a unique seaside perspective of Dubrovnik and its towering city walls.
On top of that, you’ll have the opportunity to go swimming, snorkelling, cliff jumping, or just taking it easy on the only beach in Dubrovnik that’s is solely accessed from the water.
As wonderful as it is exploring the area during the day, it is even more beautiful if you plan to do a Kayak tour during the golden hour – it’s simply a once in a lifetime experience.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Beach Bokar, Dubrovnik
Starting times | Daily 10:00, 13:00, and sunset tours at 15:30
Cost | 180 HRK (€24,-) and 260 HRK (€34,-) during sunset
Recommended tour | This 3-hour Sea Kayaking tour brings you along Dubrovnik’s marvellous coastline as well as Lokrum Island. Prices and availability here
10 | TAKE IN THE SUNSET FROM BARD, A UNIQUE CLIFFSIDE BAR
Perched on the rocky cliffs below the city walls lies Bard, a panoramic bar that is unquestionably one of the most unique places to sample a few sunset drinks in Dubrovnik.
Taking its name from the characterizing entrance (Buza meaning ‘hole in the wall’), Bard Buza bar is entered by climbing through a little hole in the side of Dubrovnik’s aged city walls.
As soon as you enter the iconic bar, you’ll be welcomed by incredible panoramic views of the glistering Adriatic, Lokrum island in the distance, as well as the encircling city walls.
Though this place really is fascinating at every time of day, it gets super crowdy during the golden hour, when both travellers and locals flock here to enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the world go by. For that reason, I recommend stopping by in the early afternoon.
As you would expect, drinks at a unique location as Bard Buza Bar, are significantly higher priced than elsewhere in Dubrovnik – but trust me, the stunning setting make up for a lot!
For those keen to take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic, there’s a number of ladders providing easy access to the water.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Bard cliff bar, Dubrovnik
11 | VISIT THE LOVRIJENAC FORT
Nestled on a picturesque cliff just west off Dubrovnik old town is Fort Lovrijenac, an impressive medieval stronghold that played a major role in the resistance of Venetian rule.
If the brave people of Dubrovnik didn’t stand their ground in the 11th century, the Venetians would probably have built a fortress of their own at exactly the same spot, resulting in that they would have kept Dubrovnik under their power.
Sadly, a large part of the fort’s interior was destroyed by reason of an earthquake that hit Dubrovnik in 1667. Fortunately, it didn’t take long before it was rebuilt to the fortress we visit at present.
Something noticeable is the famous inscription above the entrance, saying: “Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro” (“Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold of the world”).
Although there isn’t much else to see inside the fortress, I wouldn’t recommend skipping it, and that’s for two bloody good reasons.
May it be the stunning view of the whole of Dubrovnik, or its recent role as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones, a visit to the fortress is simply one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.
ESSENTIALS
Where | Lovrijenac Fort, Dubrovnik
Opening hours | Daily 08:00 – 17:00
Cost | 50 HRK (€6,60) per person – entrance is included in a Dubrovnik City Walls ticket
12 | HIT UP THE DUBROVNIK BEACHES
Whilst Dubrovnik is best known for its many historical sites, you’ll be surprised by the wide variety of idyllic stretches of sandy and pebble beaches, which are excellent for a lazy day of sunbathing and swimming.
And after my first 2 days spent exploring the many interesting places that Dubrovnik has to offer, I felt a strong need to take a day off, laying my towel next to the stunning Adriatic.
Fortunately, I didn’t have to look far to visit one of Dubrovnik’s excellent beaches.
Some of my favourite Dubrovnik beaches include:
BELLEVUE BEACH
Situated within an easy walk of Dubrovnik old town lies Bellevue Beach, a pebbly cove that is encircled by a set of towering cliffs, providing an excellent platform for those interested in cliff jumping.
Although it is one of the most popular beaches in Dubrovnik, it felt relatively quiet compared to other beaches in the area, making it my favourite beach to chill away a lazy afternoon.
BANJ BEACH
Easily Dubrovnik’s most popular beach, and therefore also the most overrun beach.
And though this beach is far from my personal preferences, I fully understand why it earned its excellent reputation.
Banj Beach is situated closest to Dubrovnik old town and provides the most stunning view of the city walls in the distance.
On top of that, it houses a trendy beach club, pumping vibrant techno beats through its speakers, as well as offering sun beds & parasols for hire.
BEACH SULIC
Hidden between Fort Lovrijenac and Gradac Park is Beach Šulić, a picturesque cove that is considered to be one of the oldest swimming spots in Dubrovnik.
This small stretch of beach is mostly known by locals and offers the perfect circumstances to take a quick refreshing dip in the clear shallow waters of the Adriatic, without the crowds being around. In addition, there is also a small bar, meaning you don’t have to go far for a refreshing drink or ice cream.
BEST TIME TO VISIT DUBROVNIK
A word of warning – Dubrovnik is massively overrun by both locals and travellers during the summer months. For that reason alone, I think it’s better to avoid visiting Dubrovnik during the peak summer months (May-August).
To beat the crowds, plan to visit Dubrovnik in September or October, when the temperature is still very pleasant, which provides excellent circumstances to explore the old town and its charming surroundings.
And though the summer heat slowly fades, the Adriatic is still warm enough to take a dip.
One extra benefit of travelling during these months is the fact that the prices are slightly lower than during the peak months.
MY FAVOURITE TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND DUBROVNIK
If you’re keen to join an organized tour to discover Dubrovnik and surrounds, here are some of my personal favourites.
HOW TO GET TO DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
FLIGHTS | HOW TO GET TO DUBROVNIK
Dubrovnik Airport, situated about 40 minutes from the city, hosts both European and international flights from all over the world, meaning you most likely start your Croatia itinerary in Dubrovnik.
For flights to Dubrovnik, I would recommend Skyscanner. Their website is user-friendly, holds a large variety of airlines, and grants the possibility to find good rates.
From the airport, it’s easy to take a shuttle bus in the direction of the Main Bus Station in Gruž Port. The bus leaves every 30 minutes after arriving flights, and a one-way ticket will cost you around 55 HRK (€7,50).
CAR | HOW TO GET TO DUBROVNIK
Croatia’s beautiful coastline makes a perfect destination for an adventurous road trip, and if you’re looking for the best places in the country, renting a car is easily the best thing you could do.
If you’re planning to rent a car in Croatia, you’ll have all the freedom to visit Dubrovnik – plus it’s significantly easier to do day trips.
For car rental in Croatia, I would recommend checking out Rentalcars.com. They offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars, all at an affordable price.
One side note though, parking in the old town is extremely pricy, so it’s better to either find accommodation with private parking or park just outside the old town.
That said, when planning to drive to Dubrovnik with a rental car, check if you’re allowed to cross the border. Getting from Split to Dubrovnik requires a short drive through Bosnia and Herzegovina.
BUS | HOW TO GET TO DUBROVNIK
Travelling around Croatia by bus is extremely straightforward, and easily one of my favourite forms of transport.
In terms of the most comfortable options, I came to the conclusion that my favourite was Flixbus, an excellent company that services the major cities in Croatia, as well as a great selection of cities in the neighbouring countries.
If you’re after a visit to Dubrovnik by bus, I’d recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the peak months.
For booking tickets online, availability and travel departures & information, visit the Flixbus website.
FERRY | HOW TO GET TO DUBROVNIK
If you started your Croatia itinerary in Split, and ended up on one of the beautiful islands, the best option to get to Dubrovnik is by taking a ferry.
The company that operates between the islands and Dubrovnik is Krilo and is transferring foot passengers only.
Krilo operates from Hvar or Korcula to Dubrovnik once daily, and offers excellent service, affordable prices and is strictly on time.
I would recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer months – this can be done at the ticket booth in the harbour or online.
SAFETY IN CROATIA | TRAVEL INSURANCE
While Croatia is completely safe for travellers, I always aim to enter a foreign country with my travel insurance sorted out, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.
Where we prefer to assume that everything runs smoothly during our travels, the reality is often that something can go wrong at any given moment – when that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here.
World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.
PLAN YOUR CROATIA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES
