Picolo recommends · Hotel in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
From the bathing platforms in Ploče you swim with the whole walled city in front of you, the harbour and ramparts lit by the low sun.
Look west from a balcony at the Excelsior and Dubrovnik is framed like a postcard: the old harbour, the walls and the fortress towers, just across a stretch of open water. It is one of the best viewpoints over the city.
The hotel stands on the rocks in Ploče, the neighbourhood just east of the Old Town. Steps lead down to platforms where you can swim, there is also a pool and a spa, and the Ploče Gate is around ten minutes away on foot.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
Our design pick, and perhaps the finest view of Dubrovnik from any hotel. It suits couples and families who want proper swimming and the Old Town within walking distance in the same trip.
The view comes at a price. Rooms looking at the Old Town are the reason to come, and they cost noticeably more than the rest. Book one if you can, or consider whether the premium is worth it to you.
What you get
- Views across to the walled city
- Bathing platforms on the rocks
- Banje beach just below
- Spa
- Works for couples and families
A day at Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
- Morning
- Swim off the platforms while the Old Town is still waking up.
- Midday
- Walk to the Ploče Gate and explore the eastern side of the walls.
- Afternoon
- Take the boat over to Lokrum island from the old harbour.
- Evening
- Watch the walls glow from your balcony as the sun sets.
Location
Ploče, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Open in MapsQuestions about Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
Can you see the Old Town from Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik?
Yes. The hotel faces the ramparts and the old port over open water. Rooms facing the Old Town have the full view, so ask for one when you book.
How far is Hotel Excelsior from the Old Town?
It is about a ten-minute walk to the Ploče Gate, the eastern entrance to the Old Town.
Is there a beach at Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik?
The hotel has its own bathing platforms on the rocks, and Banje beach, one of the busiest in Dubrovnik, is right below.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
How Picolo chooses
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