Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik Written By A Local

Post author SJ

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

The ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ draws in millions of people; if you’re soon to be one of them, here is a list of what to do in Dubrovnik as written by locals.

Dubrovnik is located in southern Croatia on the Adriatic Sea and possesses a long history. This gorgeous old city has been exquisitely preserved to maintain its medieval charm.

While Dubrovnik has a rich history, the development of Dubrovnik primarily occurred in the 15th and 16th centuries, when it expanded into a booming maritime trading center.

Now, Dubrovnik is an important international tourist destination attracting visitors from all over the world.

One of the Balkans’ absolute highlights, this city has everything from breathtaking views, historic buildings and gorgeous natural wonders. Dubrovnik is truly a one-of-a-kind city that should be at the top of anyone’s travel itinerary, especially as the weather in Dubrovnik remains good even long after summer passes.

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Fort St. John

With cheap flights to Dubrovnik coming more often, we bet you’ll find yourself planning a vacation to this incredible city soon. So, this Dubrovnik guide contains a comprehensive overview of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.

Get yourself from the airport to the city’s center with this helpful guide.

Top Attractions In Dubrovnik

Encircled by massive stone walls, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City of Dubrovnik’s a wealth of things to see and do. How much time you spend here will determine how many of the following Dubrovnik attractions you can tick off your things-to-do list.

City Walls & Forts

Game of Thrones locations - Travel Croatia - Dubrovnik, The Pearl of the Adriatic | Dubrovnik Travel Blog
What to do in Dubrovnik – Kings Landing, also known as Dubrovnik

The walls that surround the city provide an excellent spot for sightseeing at all angles. They are usually the number of things on anyone’s things to do in Dubrovnik list, and for a good reason. The first Dubrovnik city wall was built around the city as early as the 9th century. Since then, the walls have been rebuilt and fortified numerous times, including after the shelling damage from the 1990s. The walls were strengthened when the Turks threatened to invade during the 15th century.

A mighty defensive ring consisting of massive walls, fortresses, and towers offers views and protection by land and sea. It can be quite a climb to get to the top of these walls, especially when it is hot outside. The path is steep and has little shelter along the way. But once you reach the top, the views will be well worth the climb. A Dubrovnik wall walk is arguably the most popular thing to do in Dubrovnik.

Opening hours. June and July 8 am-7.30 pm. For all other times, check with the Dubrovnik tourism board

Local tip: Don’t go in the middle of the day, the heat is intense, and there is hardly any shade on the Dubrovnik city walls. No matter when you go, take lots of water with you.

In addition to the city walls of Dubrovnik, you might also want to check out the majestic Lovrijenac Fortress. Located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Adriatic Sea, it was built as an extra defense and to offer more protection to the city’s western side, not coincidentally facing in the direction of Venice at the time Dubrovnik’s main naval rival. You can reach the fortress via a flight of stairs from Pile Beach.

Cathedral Of The Assumption Of Mary

Cathederal of the Asumption of Mary Dubrovnik | Dubrovnik Travel Blog
What to do in Dubrovnik: Cathedral. Photo credit: Diego Delso

Within the city walls, a pedestrian zone, numerous historical and architectural highlights await you. First off, let’s head to the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, a baroque structure built on the site of a 7th -century basilica. The original cathedral was destroyed by an earthquake in 1667.

Filled with history, not only is the building an outstanding work of art itself, but it is home to a polyptych by the 19th-century Italian painter Titian called the Assumptions of Mary. The architecture of the altars is something to marvel at, as well as the treasury. Tickets must be purchased to enter the treasury, where gold and silver relics made between the 11th and 17th centuries are on display. Besides the city walls, this is the most monumental structure in the Old Town of Dubrovnik.

Rector’s Palace

What to see in Dubrovnik - Rectors Palace | Travel Blog
What to do in Dubrovnik – Rectors Palace. Photo Credit Diego Delso

The Rector’s Palace is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance design and architecture. The palace was built in the 15th century for the Rector governing Dubrovnik. It includes the Rector’s private chambers, administrative offices, public halls, and even a dungeon.

Today, the Rector’s Palace is the Cultural History Museum. The museum shows off restored rooms and portraits alongside coats of arms and coins that tell the history of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The architecture of the palace is quite remarkable. Having been rebuilt several times, it still holds onto its historical roots. Additionally, the Rector’s palace also holds live concerts during the Summer Festival.

Dominican Monastery & Museum

The Dominican Monastery and Museum were built during the 14th century, making it as old as the city wall fortifications. Built in a Gothic and Renaissance style, this building is home to many impressive works of art. The building’s architecture is a work of art, and inside, a 15th-century cloister designed by local artisans can be found. Maso di Barolomeo inspired the cloister. Alongside the cloister, you will find beautiful stained glass windows and works by Vlaho Bukovac, Lovro Dobricevic, Nikola Bozidarevic, and Titian.

Franciscan Church & Monastery

Another beautiful historical, religious complex in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the Franciscan Church, and Monastery dates from the 1300s. It’s one of the most fabulous places to visit in Dubrovnik. Especially when it’s hot outside, you’ll find shade and coolness in its colonnades, cloisters, library, and ancient pharmacy.

Large Onofrio’s Fountain

When entering the Old Town through the Pile Gate on the western side, the first structure you’ll notice is the Large Onofrio’s Fountain.

This large, circular, and domed fountain consists of sixteen stone maskerons, each a fountain. This is a great place to top off your water bottles. The fountains’ water is potable and comes directly from the city’s water network.

Placa / Stradun

From the Large Onofrio’s Fountain, the Old Town of Dubrovnik main street extends for almost 300 meters. Known as Placa, or Stradun this wide pedestrian street is one of the top things to see and do in Dubrovnik.

Elegant historic buildings line the promenade, housing gift shops, restaurants, bars, and a couple of museums. Several smaller side streets sprout from Placa, beckoning visitors to explore the Old Town’s labyrinth of alleys in greater detail.

Maritime Museum

You can’t miss the 14th-century port. It’s enormous and well worth checking out. But what you may not see is the Maritime Museum.

A great place to be when the sun is high and you need some relief. Set in St. John’s fortress in the southeast corner of Old Town Dubrovnik, which houses personal items from ship captains from the 18th century as well as model ships.

For the current Maritime Museum opening hours, we recommend that you take a look at the museum’s website.

Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik

Make the most of your time in Dubrovnik with these ideas of what to get up to in Dubrovnik.

‘Games of Thrones’ Walking Tour

Games Of Thrones Tour Guide_Ivana
Games Of Thrones Tour Guide Ivana

Dubrovnik is home to several locations used in filming the hit TV show ‘Game of Thrones.’ Dubrovnik is the proper setting of King’s Landing, the capital of the fictional Seven Kingdoms realm. Take a three-hour tour around the Dubrovnik Old Town to see where most of the filming took place.

Upgrading your tour will include an extra one and a half hour trip to Trsteno Arboretum. On this tour, you will follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters. It is like traveling back in time and to another world. Even if you are not a fan, this tour could definitely turn you into one.

Take A Sunset Cruise

Game of Thrones Croatia - Adriatic sea Dubrovnik Pile West Harbor - Blackwater Bay Shore

In my opinion, an absolute must-do activity is to take a sunset cruise. There is a two-hour sunset cruise along the Dubrovnik coast where you’ll need your camera to capture the most glorious sunsets from your own private boat. Sunset cruises provide magnificent views of the city walls and various reefs, the lighthouse, and Lokrum Island.

 

Kayak The Adriatic

Game Of Thrones Dubrovnik - Red Keep (1)

Take a half-day tour starting in a small port to the right of Pile Gate. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience, as instructors and other non-experienced kayakers will accompany you. You will paddle around Lokrum Island and stop at a hidden cave beach called Betina on this tour.

It’s at Betina that you take a break, do some snorkeling, cliff jumping, and eat lunch. Most tour operators provide lunch in the tour fee, which means more to explore and less time waiting in line to be served.

Your arms will be tired, but you’ll love every minute of your time exploring the Dubrovnik coast. This is a great way to add some action to the overload of culture, cuisine, and beaches when you visit Dubrovnik.

 

Pull Up A Barstool Where Beyonce & Jay-Z Hang Out

Dine with the rich and famous at Restaurant & Lounge 360. Frequented by Beyonce and Jay-Z, it’s the place to be if you’re up for a night of luxury. It’s a fine-dining restaurant, and the bar has an unbeatable view of the harbor. Best of all, it has a very long wine list, including the best Croatian wines and an international wine selection. Check out our local’s guide to eating in Dubrovnik below for many more options.

Wander The Gunduliceva Poljana Market

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The busy Dubrovnik market is a great place to haggle. Photo Credit Ashley Hubbard

One of my favorite things to do in a new place is to visit an outdoor market. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in a new location. While on holidays in Dubrovnik, you will find the oldest market in Dubrovnik inside the Old City, known as Gunduliceva Poljana Market.

This market is located at the Rector’s Palace and Cathedral. Gunduliceva Poljana market has been operating in this location since 1892. Offering all seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheese, olives, honey, and spices, this is also where you can purchase many handmade souvenirs.

Ride The Dubrovnik Cable Car To Mt. Srđ

Cable Car in Dubrovnik

This exhilarating ride via a cable car is great for the whole family and provides a bird’s eye view over Croatia’s most visited city. You can grab a drink or snack at the restaurant on the summit while waiting for the sun to set over the shimmering Adriatic Sea. This is hands down the best sunset spot in Dubrovnik, simply one of those really cool things to do in Dubrovnik. The cable car station lies just outside the northern part of the City Walls.

Photograph Your Dubrovnik Holidays

It’s widely known that Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities. It is a photographer’s paradise, with no shortage of events or sites to explore.

We recommend you combine the stunning city that is Dubrovnik and learn how to take stunning photos while on your vacation like this one. A few excellent photographic vantage points are Banje Beach, the summit of Mt. Srđ, and pretty much anywhere on the city walls.

Try A Slice Of Dubrovnik Rožata

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The yummy Rozata. Photo Credit Englishman in Dubrovnik

This local dessert got its name from a typical Dubrovnik liquor made from roses, which was once used to flavor this flan-like dessert. Rožata can be found on almost every menu in Dubrovnik restaurants. Try this Rožata Recipe for yourself. It’s effortless and delicious.

Walking Tours In Dubrovnik

Mother of Donkeys Dubrovnik

There is a rich history of Dubrovnik that needs to be peeled back, one layer at a time. We suggest the best way to learn is on a guided walking tour. So, get moving and add this to your list of things to do in Dubrovnik and get a local’s perspective.

FIND DOZENS MORE THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK BELOW
 
 

What To Do Near Dubrovnik

There is more to Dubrovnik than the Old Town and the surrounding beaches. Holidays to Dubrovnik should include at least one of these Dubrovnik day trips. Day trips from Dubrovnik could be short afternoon outings to nearby islands or parks and a full-day trip across the border and into Bosnia-Herzegovina or Montenegro.

Day Trips From Dubrovnik

Game Of Thrones Lokrum Island (1)

Cross-Border Excursions

Port In Kotor Montenegro - Things To Do In Montenegro

  • Kravice Waterfalls, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Situated in the heart of the Herzegovina region, this gorgeous series of waterfalls is a beautiful place for waterfall photography and summer swims. Several restaurants nearby serve delicious fish dishes.
  • Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Although it, of course, doesn’t take place within the city, a day trip to Mostar is one of the absolute best things to do in Dubrovnik. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is home to an iconic bridge, Turkish-style bazaars, and beautiful mosques.
  • Vjetrenica Cave, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Its name meaning “wind cave,” the Vjetrenica Cave is Bosnia-Herzegovina’s largest cave, famous for its important karst features.
  • Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. The nearest destination in another country to Dubrovnik, the Bay of Kotor, is sensational. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting spectacular fjord-like landscapes and beautiful historic coastal towns.

Go Rock Climbing

There are a few rock climbing sites around Dubrovnik. Beginner climbers should book one of the guided rock climbing tours to get a climbing and safety lesson. And don’t forget a water bottle!

 

Popular Months, Key Festivals, And Events In Dubrovnik

The weather in Dubrovnik is generally pretty good all-year-round. Summers can get hot, winters are cool, and occasionally get some snow. This makes the city a great destination for summer beach holidays and atmospheric city breaks during the winter holidays. Below, you’ll find an overview of the most popular months, recommended events and festivals, and what to do in Dubrovnik each specific time of year.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In February

February is perhaps the quietest of all months in Dubrovnik. Besides tranquility and serenity, winter visitors will also find the chance to visit a unique festival: the Festival of St. Blaise. St. Blaise is Dubrovnik’s patron saint. This festival, dedicated to him, takes place every year on February 3. Ceremonies and celebrations usually begin the day before and last throughout the next day.

The ceremonies’ events include traditional dances, mass at church, and a large feast with many traditional dishes to honor the patron saint. The Festival of St. Blaise is a long-standing tradition in Dubrovnik, stretching as far back as the 1100s.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In April

The weather in Dubrovnik in April is not quite yet comfortable enough to hit the beach. However, this is a wonderful time to visit the Old Town and enjoy it without the massive summer crowds, in relative peace and quiet. Wine lovers might be interested in visiting Dubrovnik in April as this is when the Dubrovnik FestiWine festival takes place in Lapad, a fun and lively event featuring wine workshops, exhibits, lectures, and music performances.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In May

Similar to April, the weather in Dubrovnik in May does not allow for many beaches and sea fun. Although it’s definitely comfortable outside, it’s not warm enough for swimming or sunbathing. It is the perfect time of year to enjoy the outdoors in Dubrovnik and Croatia in general, though. And this is why May is when the Dubrovnik Outdoor Festival is held. Promoting a healthy outdoorsy lifestyle and offering a wide range of activities, from kayaking races to hikes to multi-day adventure tours. It is a great festival for active travelers who also like a good chunk of culture and history in their travels.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In June

Early morning in Dubrovnik

The first month of summer, Dubrovnik in June, is when things get busy and bustling. While more and more cruise ships arrive, the Old Town’s streets grow ever more crowded. Now, you can most likely go to the beach, get tan, and enjoy various water sports. This month, a couple of festivals take the cultural spotlight, although note that they don’t take place in Dubrovnik but on the nearby island of Korčula.

The first one is the Sword Dance Festival, which showcases the unique traditions and heritage of sword dancing on the island. Later in the month, Korčula Town hosts the International Film Festival Marco Polo. As the birthplace and point of departure of Marco Polo, the town is absolutely perfect for this festival that highlights movies inspired by the Silk Route and ancient silk trade.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In July

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival has been running for well over 60 years and gets better with every year that passes. Various concerts, events, and theatrical performances are held almost every evening in different locations and venues around the city. If you are in Dubrovnik in the summer, you should definitely try and see a performance. The festival runs roughly from mid-July to late-August. Find out more about the Dubrovnik Summer Festival here.

People who like the occasional glass of quality wine might be interested in visiting Korčula at the end of July when many local wine cellars are opened to the public. While the rest of Dalmatia is known for its red wines, Korčula is white wine country. And you have to admit; there’s hardly anything better than sipping a glass of chilled white wine on a hot summer’s day.

Besides this, sunbathing, water sports, sightseeing, and other classic things to do in Dubrovnik are popular this time of year.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In August

Games of Thrones Locations Croatia - Atrium, Rector's palace, Old Town, Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival continues well through August and is the main festival this month. It is so extensive and spread out over the city that you really don’t need any other events, honestly. There’s plenty to see and do in Dubrovnik during this extended event to keep you more than occupied while you’re on holiday in Dubrovnik.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In September

Two fascinating festivals stand out in Dubrovnik in September. The first one is the Korkyra Baroque Festival, which runs from the beginning until the middle of the month. This extraordinary cultural event promotes local as well as international music and cultures. Various concerts occur in venues all over southern Dalmatia, from Dubrovnik and Ston to Korčula and Hvar.

During the last three weeks of September, the Epidaurus Festival takes place in Cavtat. This series of cultural events include everything from music performances to artistic programs to folkloric dances, poetry readings, and theatrical plays. A great event to attend for culture buffs, in other words.

September is also arguably the last month of the year when swimming and sunbathing can be done comfortably on the beaches of Dubrovnik. It’s also a bit quieter than July and August as the huge summer crowds will now be back home at school or work.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In October

Fort Lovrijenac - Sail ship_Pirate_Dubrovnik - Croatia Travel Blog

On the other side of summer than May, October is also an ideal time of year to get active around Dubrovnik. The cooler Dubrovnik October weather allows for strenuous outdoor activities. There are no worries about getting heat exhaustion this time of year, while it is still definitely comfortable outside. A fantastic event that lets you experience the great outdoors of southern Dalmatia is the Dubrovnik  & Konavle Walking Festival, taking place during the first week of October. Focused on hiking, the activities range from half-day trips to multi-day excursions.

After burning up plenty of calories during the Walking Festival, you can replenish it later in the month during the Good Food Festival. This four-day event highlights all kinds of local delicacies, from cheeses and pastries to wines and seafood dishes. Visitors can take part in culinary workshops or enjoy special menus in many Dubrovnik restaurants. If you can, stay until the last day of the event, when the so-called Dubrovnik Table spans the entire length of the Old Town’s main street, filled with culinary creations by various local chefs, caterers, bakers, and restaurateurs.

Things To Do In Dubrovnik In December

December is probably the most atmospheric month in Dubrovnik. Like everywhere else in Europe, the Old Town gets decorated with Christmas trees and millions of twinkling lights.

Find more festivals here.

Best Beaches In Dubrovnik

Best Dubrovnik Beaches - Uvala Lapad Beach Dubrovnik

Banje Beach

Banje Beach is the most famous Dubrovnik beach for a good reason. The white sandy and pebble beach has crystal clear water and is enough to make Banje Beach seem like paradise. But, there is more to do here than lay on the beach all day. Banje Beach offers many adventurous activities to thrill-seekers. Boats, jet skis, and even parachute rides can be found right off the coast. And for those of you who prefer the nightlife, Banje beach has many bars that come alive after dark located right on the sand. Also, it has some of the best views of Old Town anywhere in the city.

Pasjaca Beach

Best Beaches In Croatia_Pasjaca Beach_Zoran Jelaca HTZ
Photo: Zoran Jelaca via HTZ

If you want to escape the crowds and laze on a secluded beach, you’ll need to headway out of Dubrovnik Old Town and make your way to the village of Popovici. You’ll find it around 20 kilometers south of Dubrovnik in the Konavle region. Not exactly easy to find, Pasjaca Beach is only for the fit and adventurous as you need to walk down a steep cliff to get your toes wet. Tip: pack your drinks and snacks because there are no beachside facilities. 

Copacabana Beach

Best Beaches In Dubrovnik - Thatched canopies and awnings on the beach Copacabana Beach

Another famous beach in Dubrovnik, Copacabana Beach, is located on the Lapad peninsula at Babin Kuk. It is a pebble and concrete beach that offers a beautiful view of the Dubrovnik Bridge. Like many other beaches in Dubrovnik, Copacabana Beach has plenty of rental jet skis, kayaks, and parachute rides. There are amenities and activities for children and those who have disabilities. The beach turns into a bar scene with many bars opening upright on the beach at night.

Sulici Beach

Not super crowded, yet just meters away from Old Town Dubrovnik, Sulici Beach is tiny and is covered in concrete (sorry!), but the water is crystal clear and refreshing. 

Lapad Beaches And Bay

What to see in Dubrovnik Travel Blog Lapad Beach | Dubrovnik Travel Blog
Lapad Beach Dubrovnik. Photo credit: Aileen Parsons

Lapad is the peninsula that sticks out into the Adriatic Sea. There are many superb beaches located on either side of the peninsula and a calm, relaxing bay. Many of the Lapad beaches have chairs and umbrellas for rent and beach-side restaurants and coffee bars. The Lapad beaches are a mixture of sand and pebble (and slabs of concrete, sadly).  These beaches are excellent for relaxing, taking walks, or adventuring out in kayaks or jet skis.

Sveti Jakov

The Sveti Jakov Beach is located south of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and is way less crowded than our first suggestion of Banje Beach. Moreover, it might just have a nicer crowd, too. It is quieter than many other beaches because it takes about 30 minutes and 150 stairs to reach the beach. In summer, you’ll be hot and sweaty when you get there, but luckily, there’s no better way to cool off than jumping in the refreshing Adriatic Sea.

Naturist Beaches In Dubrovnik

  • Lokrum Beach. On the Island of Lokrum. Be warned that kayak tours go by here several times a day.
  • Cava Naturist Beach. A pebble beach not far from Copacabana Beach
  • Sunj Beach. Located on the island of Lopud.

Best Accommodation In Dubrovnik

Here are some options for where you can rest your head in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik accommodation ideas here

Places To Eat And Drink In Dubrovnik

After a long day of sightseeing, you’ll need to know the best restaurants in Dubrovnik and where to get a drink (or five). Inside the Old Town of Dubrovnik, prices are high – really high. Coffee is 5 euro whereas, in most places, it’s 1-2 euro. Here are just a few places we can suggest, but if you want to eat on a tight budget, head outside to neighboring villages where things return to average Croatian prices.

If you’re a foodie, don’t forget to check out this Sights & Bites tour!

Restaurant Horizont

Restaurant Horizont creates an enjoyable dining atmosphere. This restaurant serves a wide variety of traditional Mediterranean cuisines, as well as wine and spirits. Many people fall in love with menu options, but not as much as they do with the view. Sitting inside the walls of Old Town, the view is fantastic. Sitting outside, you can see all around Dubrovnik. The staff is very attentive. The prices of the menu items vary, so you can stick to the budget or blow it out of the water. Find them on Facebook.

Konoba Veranda

This quaint restaurant is located four minutes from the bay. Run by a local couple, Maja and Mirko, the menu includes a variety of items. Being so close to the sea, this restaurant offers all kinds of fresh seafood prepared in various ways. The food is classic Mediterranean, European, and Croatian, set at great prices. The couple who runs Konoba Veranda is very warm and welcoming and loves to chat with visitors. Find them on Facebook.

Restaurant 360

Restaurant 360 serves outstanding Mediterranean cuisine. The food is prepared by the best chefs in the area and served by professional and attentive staff. The food is what draws visitors to Restaurant 360, but it is the experience that keeps bringing them back. Restaurant 360 overlooks Dubrovnik’s port. Inside, the modern, classy atmosphere instantly puts customers at ease. Whether you are there for a romantic evening or a family dinner, Restaurant 360 can provide you with all you are looking for. Make a reservation here.

Azur Restaurant

This is a little hidden gem in the backstreets of the Old Town, near the western side of the walls. Azur serves up excellent Mediterranean-Asian fusion meals, like a shrimp pouch on roasted aubergine in coconut curry sauce. It’s an absolute must to be here at sunset, although a great place to be anytime. The chefs at Azur use organically grown and locally sourced herbs, while the fish and shellfish come from local fishermen.

Although the drinks may cost you a little more than your typical bar, it is very much worth the splurge to enjoy the atmosphere and views. Check out their website.

Restaurant Orhan

Orhan has stunning views, a reasonably priced menu, and is tucked away from the crowds. What more could you ask for? The restaurant is situated at the foot of Lovrijenac Fortress, just 200 meters out of the Old Town. Take a seat inside of the restaurant or sit out on the terrace; either way, you’ll have a marvelous view of Lovrijenac and the city walls of the Old Town. Restaurant Orhan serves both international and traditional cuisine and is famous for its black cuttlefish risotto. Find them here. 

Nishta

This is a vegetarian restaurant that even carnivorous Croatian men go to without making a fuss. Nishta serves only 100% vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. It’s always fresh and tasty. With just a few tables, they are always busy so do plan ahead. Nishta is located in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, on the corner of Palmoticeva and Prijeko, off the Stradun. The best advice is to head in, book your table, and then head down the stairs and have a pre-dinner cocktail at D’Vino’s Wine Bar. Look at the menu here.

If vegan options are what you need, check out our handy guide to vegan travel in Croatia here.

Kamenice

For good-quality, inexpensive Dubrovnik classics, try Kamenice. This simple family-owned place lies right on the market square. Our pals at Jay Way Travel say it’s their go-to place for mussels and fried squid when in town. Head to Gundulićeva poljana 8, Dubrovnik.

Lady Pi Pi

Sat in the Old Town, we’re told that Lady Pi Pi does an excellent and reasonably priced grilled calamari. Be warned, though, that you can’t book a table and sometimes the wait is over 30 mins.

Tabasco

Great value, quick and conveniently located, serving wood-oven pizzas, Tabasco lies across the road from the Fire Station underneath the Dubrovnik Cable Car, making it very easy to find. Eat at Cavtatska Ulica 11, Dubrovnik

Slastičarnica Dolce Vita

Yummy ice cream! Really any place on a hot day is good for ice cream, right?

Where To Drink In Dubrovnik

Café Buza

Café Buza is a nightlife hub in Dubrovnik. Right outside the city walls, this bar offers everything you need to enjoy yourself and let loose a little bit. They serve a wide variety of beer, wine, and spirits. Sit there, drink in hand, with a fantastic view of the Adriatic Sea. While drinks are on the pricier side, the view and experience are well worth the money. Customers love the relaxed, laid-back environment of Café Buza and always come back for more. Here is proof.

D’Vino’s Wine Bar

D’Vino’s wine bar has a large selection of international and Croatian wines. They offer 60 wines by the glass, the largest in Dubrovnik, and even more by the bottle. They also offer wine tastings. D’Vinos Wine Bar is on Palmoticeva opposite Glam CaféSee the website

Traveling To Dubrovnik And Getting Around Dubrovnik

  • Air. Dubrovnik Airport is located a little over fifteen kilometers from the center of Dubrovnik. Once you arrive at the airport, there is a Dubrovnik airport bus to get you to your destination. Info on Dubrovnik Airport here
  • Bus. The buses in Dubrovnik will take you to all of the major locations, as well as big, neighboring cities. The central bus station is located in Gruz, which is just two kilometers from Old Town. There is a regular bus from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, which is cheap for around 35 euro. While in Dubrovnik, you can use local buses, which begin at 5 am and run past midnight to get you around. Just remember that Dubrovnik Old Town is a pedestrian zone.
  • Ferry. The Dubrovnik ferry will take you to numerous locations, including nearby cities and islands. With varying schedules, there is always a ferry to meet your plans. For anyone coming from Italy, some ferries leave from Bari and Ancona. Check the ferry options here.
  • Train. There are no trains in Dubrovnik, but there are stations in other local cities. From there, you would have to get to Dubrovnik by bus or car.
  • Cable Car. The cable car will take you from the center of Dubrovnik to the top of Mt. Srd in four minutes. The sight from the top of the mountain is breathtaking, taking in the whole city and a collection of islands in the Adriatic Sea beyond. While there, take advantage of the telescopes for viewing as well as the snack bar and restaurant.
  • Car. Traveling by car is an efficient way to get around Dubrovnik. There are many car rental options scattered throughout the city. It’s just parking that is difficult.
  • Private Transfer. Private transfer to Dubrovnik has become extremely popular in recent years because you don’t get burdened with finding parking. For more information on private transfers to/from and around Dubrovnik, talk to Octopus Transfers.
  • Parking. There are a few parking options in the Dubrovnik city center. However, parking is limited and is mainly paid, so get in early for a parking spot. There are two parking areas close to the Old Town, but you’ll never get a space there in the high season. Most big hotels have their own parking spaces, so try to get that included in your rate.

Dubrovnik Car Rental Search

Traveling To Zagreb, Split, Or Zadar

  • Bus: The buses in Dubrovnik will take you more than to just stops within the city; you can head from Dubrovnik to Zagreb, Split and Zadar, and the surrounding towns. Numerous buses are leaving daily.
  • Car: Traveling by car is an efficient way to get to another city from Dubrovnik. The Croatian freeways are modern and well-maintained, but they do have tolls.
  • Private Transfers. We use these lots ourselves when we travel. You can find reasonable rates here.

Local Tips

  • The Dubrovnik cruise port is bustling, so if you plan a holiday in Dubrovnik, try to avoid the days when the cruisers are in town. Approximately 50% of Dubrovnik’s tourists arrive by cruise ship, and they just stay for one busy day. So, if you can’t beat the cruise liners altogether, just come to the Old Town late in the day, around 5 pm after the cruisers are gone.
  • Schedule of cruise ships in Dubrovnik

Have you been to Dubrovnik? What were your top things to do in Dubrovnik? Did we miss any?

More Ideas For Things To Do In Dubrovnik

Are you not sure what to do in Dubrovnik? Your holiday in Dubrovnik has so many options. There are so many Dubrovnik sights that not even we’ve experienced all that Dubrovnik has on offer. Key highlights include:

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Comments (40)

  1. We loved our time in Dubrovnik! We soon learnt to do our sightseeing in the evening to escape the crowds that filled the city when the cruise boats were in port! Maybe we were just looking for an excuse to stop at D’vino Wine Bar to try the local Croatian wine!

  2. Our original plan had us visiting Dubrovnik, but plans changed and we didn’t make it. Looking at your photos, I see we really missed something special. Someday.

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