Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Although Dubrovnik is mainly known as the location of the iconic ‘King’s Landing’ in Game of Thrones, Croatia, there is plenty more to see. Because of its walkable size, you can visit most of the sights on a trip of around three days. This includes plenty of beach time!
To see all the best things to do in Dubrovnik, we suggest getting the Dubrovnik Pass. The ticket includes many popular sights and will save you money on your trip.
Tip: Explore the city early, as many tour groups begin at 9:30 AM because of the cruise ships that come to Dubrovnik. It’s also a good idea for the hot summer months!
There are two entrance points to get on top of the wall to begin the walk; the first is at Pile Gate and the second is at Ploce Gate, which is less busy. You can do a half loop and get off at one of these gate points or the full loop, which will take about 90 minutes. This includes enough time to stop and take photos.
On the south side of this stunning walk, there are jaw-dropping views of the coast. Plus, along the way, you can stop at cafes along the top of the wall. Once you reach the north side, you can also climb Fort Minčeta, which is the highest point in the city!
Opening Times & Entry Fee: Tickets are 35 EUR per person (but it is included in the Dubrovnik Pass). Opening times vary throughout the year, with shorter hours during winter. In general, the walls open at 8 AM and close around 7 PM.
2. Onofrio Fountain
Dubrovnik’s most famous landmark is this circular domed fountain built in 1438. This is the perfect place to rest from a day’s exploring in Dubrovnik, Croatia! Sit on the low walls of the fountain and cool off from the water that flows over the ornate sculptures.
Also read: Complete 7-day Croatia itinerary
Onofrio Fountain is located on the popular Stradun Street right next to the Pile Gate. Additionally, if you visit in the morning, you might see the Franciscan monk who feeds the pigeons daily.
Tip: All tap water in Croatia is drinkable, so remember to bring your reusable water bottle to save on buying single-use plastics and travel plastic-free! You can also fill up at the fountain. Win-win!
3. Banje Beach
Step away from the city and relax at the lovely Banje Beach, only a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. This beautiful beach is very popular in the summer season, and for good reason; it’s located directly in front of the Ploce Gate and has fantastic views of both the city and the crystal-clear sea.
Also read: Complete 10-Day Croatia Itinerary
4. Franciscan Church and Monastery
Tucked away in the busy old town of Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a stunning monastery. This little oasis away from the hustle and bustle houses a museum, library, pharmacy, and church.
The museum and pharmacy (one of the oldest working pharmacies in the world!) have a separate entrance from the church. This is located next to the entrance and exit of the walk-on walls at Pile Gate.
Opening Times & Entry Fee: It is free entry to the church, which opens every day from 9 AM – 6 PM. Entry to the museum and pharmacy is included in the Dubrovnik Pass.
5. West Harbor
Dubrovnik’s West Harbor is a beautiful spot, famous as another of the Game of Thrones locations! To make the most of the wonderful scenery, sit at one of the many fantastic restaurants and bars that line the bays of West Harbor. Take your pick for a refreshing drink, or grab a takeaway pizza to sit down on the walls and enjoy the views.
Our favorite of the bars in Dubrovnik, Croatia, was Beach Bar Dodo, where you can enjoy the beautiful Adriatic blue water and stunning surroundings.
6. Rector’s Palace
The outstanding Rector’s Palace was built in the 15th Century with Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. Once housing the government and state offices, the Palace is now home to the Museum of Dubrovnik, Croatia. As such, you’ll find fantastic displays of beautiful paintings and treasures like the original keys of the city.
Even if museums aren’t really your thing, you should visit Rector’s Palace for the stunning two-story open courtyard and the interior atrium. Not only was this one of the locations for filming Game of Thrones in Croatia, but its exceptional acoustics means it’s now a popular music venue. Make sure to see a concert here as one of the more unusual things to do in Dubrovnik!
Opening Times & Entry Fee: Included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Open 9 AM – 6 PM every day (open until 4 PM in the winter).
7. Sveti Jakov Beach
This small but very beautiful beach has some of the most incredible views of the city. Plus, it’s a little quieter than other beaches, making it one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik!
Like all Dubrovnik beaches, the bay is closed to boats, so beachgoers have a safe swimming space. Cool off in the water, enjoy food and drink from the beach club, and listen to relaxing music while watching the sunset.
Tip: For the ultimate relaxation, rent a sun bed and umbrella for the day (15 EUR per bed, 15 EUR per umbrella).
Getting there: A taxi from the town takes about 25 minutes from the old town. Our recommendation is to take the taxi there as it is uphill! Returning to the city is easy on foot/ However, there is always the No.5 or No.8 if you want to take the bus.
The Tower was damaged in the earthquake of 1667, and to prevent collapse, the old Bell Tower was rebuilt in 1929 to a height of 31 meters. These days, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, who gather here to meet.
Tip: You’ll find the location of the clock tower on Luza Square at the end of Stradun.
9. Kayak Tour
Dubrovnik, Croatia, is best seen from the water! Take a private tour by kayak for a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks. Plus, you’ll learn about all the famous history and legends from a knowledgeable local guide.
Paddle along the old walls of the city before reaching the beautiful red cliffs and secluded nearby coves. If you wish, you’ll also have some time here to swim or snorkel before heading to Betina Cave Beach to end the day.
Tip: We recommend doing a kayak tour early in the morning or sunset for cooler temperatures and quieter waters.
10. Fort Lovrjenac
Perched outside the old town walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia is the incredible Fort Lovrjenac. Built over 1000 years ago, the fort has seen many stages of history, remaining a must-see spot for all visitors to Dubrovnik, Croatia. The fort itself was constructed on the side of a rocky cliff overlooking the sea, complete with 200 steps, which you can climb for excellent views over the bay and castle walls.
Inside the fortress is a theater and a memorial for war casualties. This spot is definitely worth a visit as one of the top things to do in Dubrovnik!
Opening Times & Entry Fee: Open 8 AM – 7:30 PM daily (closes earlier during the winter). It is included in the Dubrovnik Pass. However, if you don’t plan to buy the pass, we wouldn’t recommend visiting it as the entrance ticket price is high (200 HRK / ~ 27 EUR).
11. Stroll Around the Old Town
One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is to absorb the wonderful atmosphere as you wander around the medieval Old Town and get lost along the city walls. Plenty of treasures are among the meandering streets, particularly the narrow openings in the south walls that lead to bars on the cliffs like the epic Buza Bar.
So do as the locals do, and head to the Stradun (main pedestrian street) for a traditional ‘dir’ (a slow stroll to catch up with family and friends before dinner).
While wandering around the city, there are many more places to visit with beautiful architecture. For example, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary or the Sponza Palace. Additionally, if you like Baroque architecture, then make sure you visit the Church of St. Ignatius with its iconic Jesuit Stairs designed by Pietro Passalacqua.
12. Take the Cable Car up Mount Srd
Take the weight off your feet and take the cable car up to 405 meters above sea level to admire some of the best views in Croatia! Swinging high over the old city, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the medieval walls and incredible views over the sparkling Adriatic Sea. For glorious golden vistas, take this cable car at sunset, when you’ll see nature’s very own light show as the sun goes down.
Opening Times & Entry Fee: 15 EUR for a one-way ticket. The opening times vary depending on the season (check the full timetable and prices here). The ride up is 3.5 minutes, and the walk down is about 30 minutes.
13. Day Trip to Montenegro
Montenegro is very close to Dubrovnik, Croatia, so why not take the opportunity of a multi-stop day tour of its nearby stunning coastal towns? We recommend visiting the UNESCO town of Kotor on your Croatia itinerary, which is famous for its nautical tradition and imposing city walls. Alternatively, choose beautiful Budva, another stunning old town with white sandy beaches and excellent nightlife. It’s the perfect place for those looking for the party scene on their trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia!
Best Cafes and Restaurants in Dubrovnik
We found some delicious places to eat in Dubrovnik, Croatia. However, be aware that some restaurants and cafes can be expensive for the quality you get. Because of this, so we recommend checking recent reviews of the restaurant before you arrive.
Our favorite places were:
- Soul Kitchen
- Taj Mahal Old Town
- Nishta (veg)
- Trattoria Carmen
- Storia
- Bota Šare
- Vege Dub (veg)
- Panini Bar (cheap lunch)
If you like oysters, you have come to the right place! The clean salty waters of the Adriatic make ideal conditions for oyster farming, and there are numerous oyster bars to choose from.
Tip: All tap water in Croatia is drinkable. Remember to bring your reusable water bottle with you to travel plastic-free!
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia
There is plenty of choice for accommodation in Dubrovnik, Croatia. If you are after a more authentic experience, stay inside the city walls close to all the main sights. We stayed at this hotel in old town. Please note that this accommodation is generally smaller, more expensive, and not accessible by car.
You’ll find cheaper and more spacious hotels outside of the city walls. Lapad and Babin are great spots, located close to the main ferry harbor.
Tip: Part of Dubrovnik’s beauty is its steep roads and steps. Bear this in mind when packing for your trip (we recommend using a backpack rather than a suitcase with wheels, as this will be difficult to use on the cobblestones!).
How Many Days in Dubrovnik?
This majestic city has so much history packed into the city walls and plenty to visit outside the city too. We recommend at least two days to see the main sights. This gives you a little time to relax along the way.
However, 3 or 4 days will ensure you have time to explore outside the city on your Croatia itinerary and enjoy the beautiful nearby beaches.
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How to Visit Dubrovnik, Croatia
By Plane
Not surprisingly, Dubrovnik, Croatia, is now a top-rated travel destination (particularly as the setting of Game of Thrones, Croatia). As such, there are multiple flights from around Europe to Dubrovnik Airport.
The airport is located 15 km from the city center (~ 40 minutes on the shuttle bus, 7.50 EUR).
By Car
If you are traveling by car, remember that you cannot drive within the old town. In this case, you’ll need to stay outside the old walls. You can also use apps like Uber or regular taxis to get to your destination from here.
We recommend to rent a car in Croatia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Getting Around
The old town in Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a car-free zone, so no cars are allowed to enter within the walls. If traveling by taxi, the drivers will usually ask which gate you’d like to be dropped at, so it’s best to do a bit of research first. Pile Gate (west), Buza Gate (North), or Ploce Gate (East). From west to east of the city is about a 10-minute walk through the beautiful old part of the city.
If you want to explore the sights beyond the center, there is an excellent bus service. Purchase the 3-day Dubrovnik pass, and the bus transport is included.
How Much Does Dubrovnik Cost?
Dubrovnik can be more expensive in terms of accommodation, entrance fees, and restaurants. However, there is always the Dubrovnik Pass which can help reduce costs if you want to see all the main sights.
Tip: If you don’t want to spend too much money, get a cheap breakfast at the bakery chain Mlinar. This is also a good idea when you want to skip the crowds during the morning. There are a few supermarkets in town where you can also buy breakfast or lunch for the day ahead.
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik, Croatia
The shoulder seasons (Spring and Fall) are quieter and not too hot, so it’s the perfect time for sightseeing. Prices are also a little cheaper at this time of the year.
Around September and October, most cruise ship vacations have also finished, and the sea is still warm for swimming.
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