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18/10/2024
15 Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia - Travel Guide with Map
03/08/2024
Get ready to fall in love with Dubrovnik! This city has it all: a rich history, a gorgeous coastline, and a charm that will sweep you off your feet. Dubrovnik is often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic" for good reason! This incredible city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will captivate you with its ancient stone walls, jaw-dropping sea views, and vibrant cultural scene. Dubrovnik is a city like no other.
While many travellers are drawn here by its fame as the real-life King's Landing from Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik offers so much more beyond its screen stardom. From its pristine beaches and azure waters to its historic landmarks and delightful culinary experiences, this Croatian gem is a perfect destination for both history enthusiasts and sun-seekers alike. In this guide, I'll share the best things to do in Dubrovnik, including must-see attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting city.
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1. Walking the Walls of Dubrovnik
Exploring Dubrovnik's Old Town walls is an absolute must. You'll find hidden gardens, charming courtyards, and stunning views over the city's red rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. Get ready for an incredible journey through history! The nearly 2-kilometre walk takes you through some of the most historic sites in Dubrovnik, including Minceta Tower, Bokar Fort, Revelin Fort, and St. John's Fortress.
Your adventure begins at either the Pile Gate or the less crowded Ploce Gate! The full loop takes about 90 minutes, but make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to stop and take photos and enjoy a coffee or a snack at one of the lovely cafés along the way! The southern side offers absolutely breathtaking coastal views, while the northern section leads to Fort Minčeta, the highest point in the city.
Tickets are 35 EUR per person, or free with the Dubrovnik Pass. The walls open at 8 AM, with closing times varying by season, generally around 7 PM in summer and earlier in winter. Walking the Dubrovnik walls is a fantastic way to see the city's history and beauty up close.
2. Stroll Around the Old Town
Explore Dubrovnik's Old Town by wandering through its charming medieval streets. Start at Stradun, the main pedestrian street, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You have to visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks, like the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the stunning Sponza Palace.
Don't miss Loggia Square with the City Bell Tower and Orlando's Column, as well as the incredible Onofrio Fountain! The Rector's Palace and the Jesuit Stairs leading to the Church of St. Ignatius are also must-sees. Make sure you take time to explore the side streets too! They're full of unique charm and fewer tourists, so you can really soak up the atmosphere. Don't miss out on the chance to pass through historic gates like Pile Gate and Ploče Gate! Every single corner of Dubrovnik's Old Town is absolutely brimming with history and charm!
3. Rector's Palace
The magnificent Rector's Palace, built in the 15th century, showcases the best of Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. This magnificent building was originally the seat of government, and now it houses the incredible Museum of Dubrovnik! Inside, you'll find impressive displays of paintings and treasures, including the original city keys.
Even if museums aren't your usual interest, you've got to check out the Rector's Palace! It's got a stunning two-storey open courtyard and interior atrium that'll take your breath away. This iconic location, featured in Game of Thrones, also boasts excellent acoustics, making it a popular music venue. Catching a concert here is a unique Dubrovnik experience!
Opening Times & Entry Fee: Included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Open daily from 9 AM – 6 PM (until 4 PM in winter).
RECOMMENDED
Dubrovnik Pass
Experience the wonders of Dubrovnik's city walls with an exclusive group walking tour. As part of the tour, you'll also receive the Dubrovnik Pass 1-day ticket (link), granting you access to a wide array of cultural and historical attractions. Explore the City Walls, Cultural History Museum, Rector's Palace, Maritime Museum, Fort St. John, and a lot more. Additionally, enjoy 24 hours of free transportation using city buses, allowing you to seamlessly explore all that Dubrovnik has to offer.
4. West Harbor
The stunning West Harbor is just outside the city walls, a short stroll from Pile Gate. This area offers some of the most incredible views of Old Town's walls, the stunning Lovrijenac Fortress, and an iconic Game of Thrones filming location.
West Harbor is an absolutely gorgeous spot that's just perfect for taking in the breathtaking beauty of Dubrovnik. njoy the scenery from one of the many fantastic restaurants and bars that line the harbor. For a refreshing drink, try Beach Bar Dodo, where you can admire the beautiful Adriatic waters or grab some takeaways and sit on the walls to enjoy the view.
5. Fort Lovrjenac
Just outside Dubrovnik's old town walls, you'll find the incredible Fort Lovrjenac. This amazing fortress was built over 1,000 years ago! Built on a rocky cliff, this historic site offers absolutely stunning views over the bay and city walls from its 200 steps – it's an incredible experience! Once you step inside, you'll find a theatre and a memorial for war casualties, making it a poignant and scenic spot to visit. Known also as St. Lawrence's Fortress, it provides the perfect vantage point for photos of Old Town.
Open daily from 8 AM to 7:30 PM (shorter hours in winter), it's included in the Dubrovnik Pass, though the standalone ticket price is high.
6. Onofrio Fountain
The incredible Onofrio Fountain is Dubrovnik's most famous landmark and it's easy to see why! Built in 1438, this circular domed fountain is a Dubrovnik must-see! You'll find this oasis on Stradun Street, right near Pile Gate. It's the perfect place to rest and cool off during your explorations! Take a seat on the low walls and delight in the refreshing flow of water cascading over the intricate sculptures.
Don't forget, all the tap water in Croatia is drinkable! So, bring your reusable water bottle to fill up here and stay hydrated!
7. Banje Beach
Banje Beach is Dubrovnik's main beach and one of the most stunning in Croatia, offering incredible views of the Old Town. Just a short, five-minute walk from Ploče Gate, this beach is a Dubrovnik must-see! It's located just south of the city walls, and it's especially popular during the summer. Arrive early to rent a daybed or find a spot by the cliffs. The crystal-clear sea is simply breathtaking, and the photo opportunities at the top of the steps leading down to the beach are second to none. Note: Most beaches in Dubrovnik are pebbly, so water shoes are recommended.
Things to do in Dubrovnik
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8. Franciscan Church and Monastery
The Franciscan Church and Monastery is tucked away in the lively old town of Dubrovnik, offering a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This peaceful spot has a museum, library, pharmacy and church. The museum and pharmacy are among the oldest working pharmacies in the world and have a separate entrance near the Pile Gate walk-on walls. The church has a lovely interior and entry is free.
It's open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. You can get into the museum and pharmacy with the Dubrovnik Pass.
9. Sveti Jakov Beach
If you're looking for a more peaceful beach experience, then Sveti Jakov Beach is the perfect spot for you! Just a short 15-minute walk past Banje Beach, this gorgeous beach is ideal for those who want to relax and unwind. This small but absolutely stunning beach offers incredible, unbeatable views of the city and is delightfully less crowded than other beaches. You can even rent loungers and umbrellas, and there's a small restaurant serving delicious food and drinks!
10. Clock Tower
You simply don't want to miss Dubrovnik's elegant Clock Tower, dating from the 15th century, in the Old Town – it's a must-see landmark! Standing an impressive 31 metres tall, it was rebuilt in 1929 after being damaged in the 1667 earthquake. The twin bronze figures, Maro and Baro, chime the bells at noon, creating a truly charming spectacle!
11. Kayak Tour
There's nothing quite like seeing Dubrovnik from the water! It offers a unique and stunning perspective that you'll simply have to experience for yourself. Go for a private kayak tour and paddle along the ancient city walls, past the vibrant red cliffs, and into secluded coves! A knowledgeable local guide will thrill you with fascinating stories and legends about the city's rich history. And there's more! You'll have the chance to swim or snorkel in the most incredible, crystal-clear waters before heading to Betina Cave Beach to end your adventure.
12. Take the Cable Car up Mount Srd
For breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik, head to the top of Mount Srđ. There are two ways to reach the summit: hiking or taking the cable car. The hiking trail starts just outside the Old Town city walls and is free of charge. For an absolutely magical experience, take the cable car at sunset to witness the stunning golden vistas as the sun sets over Dubrovnik. You'll be blown away! At the top, you can dine at the incredible Panorama Restaurant, which offers the most amazing views and is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a meal with a view.
Opening Times & Entry Fee: The cable car costs 15 EUR for a one-way ticket. The opening times vary depending on the season, so check the full timetable and prices beforehand. The ride up takes 3.5 minutes, and the walk down is about 30 minutes.
13. Lokrum Island
Lokrum Island is the perfect half day trip from Dubrovnik! Just a 20-minute ferry ride from the city, it offers a peaceful escape you'll absolutely love. The ferry departs every half hour from Porporela, near the Old Town walls. The island is perfectly compact and walkable, featuring a magnificent Benedictine Monastery, an incredibly serene Dead Sea swimming hole, and a stunning botanical garden.
But the real reason to visit Lokrum is its absolutely gorgeous Adriatic coastline. The island's rocky shores and swim ladders provide the perfect setting for sunbathing and swimming! Spend your day exploring the absolutely gorgeous scenery, relaxing by the water, and soaking up the sun in this truly enchanting, tranquil haven!
14. Pasjaca Beach
Just outside Dubrovnik, Pasjaca Beach is a great place to spend the day. It's only a 30-minute drive south to a small parking lot near the beach. From there, follow the trail along the coast to a steep staircase built into the cliffs. This descent leads you straight to Pasjaca's spectacular crystal-clear waters, offering a serene and picturesque escape.
15. Day trip to Kotor
Montenegro is just a stone's throw from Dubrovnik, making it the perfect place for a day trip! You absolutely have to stop by the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, renowned for its nautical heritage and impressive city walls. Or, if you're looking for something different, you can visit the beautiful town of Budva, known for its stunning old town, white sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Both options will give you a unique experience and are the perfect addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary!
Map of Dubrovnik
Here's a map of all the places in Dubrovnik mentioned in this post, plus some restaurant recommendations.
