Things to do in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a whole medieval city inside walls by the sea. Arrive early in the morning, before the cruise ships, and you have the marble streets almost to yourself.
Dubrovnik
The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo: Spencer Davis / Unsplash
Dubrovnik: the city inside the walls
For centuries Dubrovnik was a city state of its own, known for trade and diplomacy. The walls around the old town run for almost two kilometres and are still complete. Inside are churches, monasteries and palaces in pale limestone, and the main street Stradun, polished by centuries of footsteps.
The city has become very popular, not least since it was used as a set for Game of Thrones. Plan your day around the cruise ships: early morning and late evening are the best times in the old town.
Dubrovnik lies in the far south of Croatia. Read about the Plitvice Lakes and Dubrovnik, or start your trip in Split.
The city walls
Photo: Mich D / Unsplash
The best things to do in Dubrovnik
Walk the city walls: the circuit takes a couple of hours. Start as soon as they open, and bring water.
Stradun and the old town: stroll the main street, and take time for the Rector's Palace and the monasteries.
The Srđ cable car: the view over the old town and the islands is best towards sunset.
Lokrum: a short boat ride from the old harbour, with woods, rocks and a small saltwater lake.
Swim from the rocks: outside the walls there are small bars where you swim straight off the cliffs.
A day trip to Montenegro: the Bay of Kotor is a couple of hours' drive south.
Evening over the old town
Photo: Geio Tischler / Unsplash
Where to stay in Dubrovnik
The old town is atmospheric, but has few hotels and lots of steps. Ploče, east of the walls, has views of the old town and a short walk in. Lapad and Babin Kuk have beaches and larger hotels, with buses into town. The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Hotel Excelsior
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Hotel Excelsior: the view of the walls
The classic hotel in Ploče, looking across the sea to the old town and Lokrum. A short walk to the Ploče Gate.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Excelsior
Hotel Bellevue: on the cliff above the cove
A hotel built into the cliff above a small cove west of the old town, with its own beach below.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Villa Dubrovnik
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Villa Dubrovnik: quiet luxury east of town
A small luxury hotel terraced above the sea, just east of the old town, with a boat into the old harbour.
Book your stay: See rooms at Villa Dubrovnik
When is the best time to visit Dubrovnik?
May, June, September and October bring warm weather and slightly fewer people than July and August. Check which days the cruise ships are in port, and save the old town for mornings and evenings. In winter the city is quiet and mild.
Frequently asked questions about Dubrovnik
Where is the best place to stay in Dubrovnik?
Ploče, east of the old town, has views and a short walk in. The old town is atmospheric but has few hotels and many steps. Lapad and Babin Kuk have beaches and larger hotels, with buses into the centre.
How long does it take to walk Dubrovnik's walls?
The circuit is almost two kilometres and usually takes a couple of hours with stops. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it is cooler and quieter.
How many days do you need in Dubrovnik?
Two to three days is enough for the old town, the walls, Lokrum and the cable car. With an extra day you can visit Kotor in Montenegro or the islands off the coast.
Is Dubrovnik expensive?
The old town is among the most expensive places in Croatia, especially in summer. Eat outside the walls, and stay in Lapad or Ploče for more choice.
When is the best time to visit Dubrovnik?
May, June, September and October bring good weather and fewer visitors than high summer.