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Dubrovnik, often called the Pearl of the Adriatic, is one of the most spectacular cities in Europe. With its medieval Old Town surrounded by massive stone walls, sparkling blue waters, and vibrant cultural life, it’s no surprise this Croatian gem has become one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
This Dubrovnik travel guide covers everything you need for your trip: the best time to visit, how to get there, top things to do, where to stay, food recommendations, essential travel tips, and unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer Adriatic adventure, this Dubrovnik travel guide will help you plan the perfect itinerary, including the best sights, beaches, and day trips.
1. Dubrovnik City Walls – 2. Dubrovnik Old Town – 3. Fort Lovrijenac – 4. Mount Srđ – 5. Dubrovnik Beaches – 6. Game of Thrones tour – 7. Dubrovnik Cathedral – 8. Cats of Dubrovnik – 9. Franciscan Monastery and Museum – 10. Cliffside Bars – 11. War Photo Limited museum
1. Lokrum – 2. Elaphiti Islands – 3. Ston – 4. Mostar (Bosnia-Herzegovina) – 5. Kotor (Montenegro)
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Why visit Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is more than just a pretty city. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a filming location for films and TV shows, and a living museum of medieval architecture. At the same time, it’s a city with buzzing bars, excellent restaurants, and easy access to beaches and islands.
Travelers come for different reasons:
- History buffs love the preserved city walls and Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque monuments.
- Photographers & aesthetes appreciate the beauty of the city, which offers Instagram-worthy sights at every corner.
- TV & film fans come for the Game of Thrones filming sites.
- Beach lovers enjoy the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands.
- Foodies find fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and Croatian wines.
No matter your interests, this Dubrovnik travel guide will help you combine history, culture, and relaxation into an unforgettable experience.
Dubrovnik was once known as Ragusa. The Republic of Ragusa thrived from the 14th to the 19th century, rivaling Venice in wealth and influence thanks to its maritime trade.
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
Timing is key for an enjoyable trip in Dubrovnik. Here’s what you need to know:
- High season (June–August): Summer brings very hot weather, with daytime highs often between 28–35°C (82–95°F) and lots of sunshine. Besides, expect large cruise ship crowds and higher prices. Still, the energy and festivals make summer exciting if you don’t mind crowds.
- Shoulder season (April–May & September–October): The sweet spot for visiting Dubrovnik. Temperatures usually range from 18–25°C (64–77°F), with warm seas for swimming and comfortable sightseeing. Rain showers are possible, but far less frequent than in winter. Fewer tourists and better deals on accommodation make this the best time to come.
- Low season (November–March): Much quieter, with some restaurants and hotels closed. Still, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is atmospheric without the summer crowds. Temperatures hover around 10–15°C (50–59°F), with higher rainfall, especially in November and December. Sunny winter days are common too, offering a softer side of Dubrovnik.
💡 Tip: If possible, plan your trip in May, September, or early October. You’ll get sunshine, swimming opportunities, and a more relaxed vibe compared to summertime.
How to Get to Dubrovnik
This section of the Dubrovnik travel guide ensures you know all the transport options, whether you prefer speed, convenience, or scenic routes.
✈️ Flying into Dubrovnik Airport
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), also called Čilipi Airport, is located about 20 km south of the Old Town. It’s well connected to European cities, especially during summer, with direct flights from London, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, and more.
From the airport, you can reach the city by:
- Airport shuttle bus, operated by “Platanus”. It leaves 45 minutes after every flight, from the first flight in the morning until last one in the evening, 24/7. Once in Dubrovnik, it makes two stops: the Old Town (Ploče gate) and the main bus station. The price is 10€ one-way and 15€ return. Check the information and book your Platanus shuttle bus tickets on the official website here.
- Dubrovnik’s public bus “Libertas”, which has three lines (n°11, 27, 38) passing by the airport. As a tourist, I wouldn’t recommend them since they don’t run nearly as often as the airport shuttle bus and may be a bit harder to navigate. However, if you want to check the lines and timetables, you can do it on Libertas’ official website here.
- Taxi or rideshare (about €35–40 to the Old Town). Uber and Bolt operate in Croatia.
- Private transfer if you prioritize convenience. Prices start at 50€ per vehicle (up to 8 passengers), which makes it a perfect option if you are traveling with family or friends. You can book your Dubrovnik airport to Old Town private transfer here.
🚌 Buses to and from Dubrovnik
Since Dubrovnik doesn’t have a train station, long-distance buses are the most common way to reach the city. They connect Dubrovnik with most major Croatian cities and several international destinations.
- Split – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Zagreb – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Kotor (Montenegro) – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina) – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
Dubrovnik’s main bus station is located in the Gruž district, about 2 km from the Old Town. From there, local buses and taxis can get you into the city center quickly.
🚢 Ferries to and from Dubrovnik
Ferries are a scenic and practical way to arrive in Dubrovnik, especially in summer. They link the city with other parts of Croatia and even Italy. Jadrolinija, the state-owned ferry company, runs year-round routes. You can book directly on their official website. Besides, private operators like Krilo and TP Line add extra seasonal routes, especially to and from the islands. Popular ferry routes include:
- Split – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Hvar – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Korčula – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
- Bari (Italy) – Dubrovnik: Check timetable and prices here
💡 Tip: Book early if you’re traveling in July or August, as fast catamarans and international ferries sell out quickly.
🚗 Driving to Dubrovnik
If you’re on a Croatia road trip, driving to Dubrovnik can be scenic but requires patience. The Adriatic Highway (D8) offers spectacular coastal views but can be slow, especially during summer.
You’ll briefly cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Neum corridor unless you take the new Pelješac Bridge, which opened in 2022, connecting Dubrovnik with the rest of Croatia without leaving the country.
Getting around Dubrovnik
Walking the Old Town
The Old Town of Dubrovnik is entirely pedestrian-only. Be prepared for cobblestones, narrow alleys, and plenty of steps, so comfortable shoes are a must. At its heart lies Stradun, the main pedestrian street that runs through the Old Town. From here, countless perpendicular side streets branch off on both sides, many of them reached by stairways. These smaller lanes are often much quieter, even in the middle of high season, and they hide charming cafés, shops, and tucked-away corners where you can escape the crowds.
Public transport in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik has a reliable bus network operated by Libertas, connecting the Old Town with neighborhoods like Lapad and Babin Kuk. A single bus ticket costs around 2.50€, while a 24-hour pass is about 5€. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at kiosks.
There are no trams or metros in Dubrovnik, and taxis can be pricey.
Top things to do in Dubrovnik
1. Walk the medieval City Walls (must-do in any Dubrovnik travel guide)
Walking Dubrovnik’s medieval City Walls is an absolute must and the best way to get a full sense of the city. The walls stretch nearly 2 kilometers and offer breathtaking views of the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. Along the way, you’ll pass towers, bastions, and ancient fortifications, each with its own story.
🎟️ Access to the City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac (combined ticket) costs 40€ for adults and 15€ for children aged 7 to 18. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site at entrances like Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. Book your tickets on Dubrovnik’s City Walls official website here.
🕒 The walls are open daily. Opening times vary seasonally: typically from 8.00AM to 7.00PM in summer and until 4.30PM in winter.
💡 Tip: If you can, visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid cruise ship crowds and enjoy softer light for photos.
The Dubrovnik City Walls are among the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. Parts date back to the 13th century, and no enemy army ever breached them.
2. Explore Dubrovnik Old Town highlights
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, grand palaces, and historic squares. Exploring it is free (a welcome perk in such a popular city) and, in my opinion, the most enjoyable thing to do. I love wandering through the quieter side alleys, but also make sure to splurge on the highlights, which include:
- Pile Gate & Ploče Gate – The main entrances, perfect for photos and beginning your exploration.
- Stradun – The main street, lined with cafés and shops, perfect for people-watching.
- Jesuit Stairs – Famous from Game of Thrones, leading up to the Church of St. Ignatius.
- Rector’s Palace – Once the city’s seat of government, now a museum showcasing Dubrovnik’s history.
- Sponza Palace – Home to the city archives and a stunning example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture.
- Onofrio Fountain – Historic fountain where locals have drawn water for centuries.
💡 Tip: Be curious and wander into the small streets adjacent to Stradun. You’ll be surprised how many of them are quiet, even on busy days!
3. Visit Fort Lovrijenac
Perched on a cliff just outside the western walls, Fort Lovrijenac is known as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar.” Also known as Fort Lawrence, it was historically used to defend the city from invaders and offers incredible panoramic views of the walls and sea.
🎟️ Access to Fort Lovrijenac (combined ticket) costs 15€. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Book your tickets on Dubrovnik’s City Walls official website here.
🕒 Fort Lovrijenac opens at 8.00AM daily but the closing time varies seasonally: between 3.00PM in winter and 6.30PM in summer.
4. Take the cable car to Mount Srđ
Mount Srđ rises just behind Dubrovnik, reaching 412 meters above sea level and offering a dramatic natural backdrop to the city. The cable car ride to Mount Srđ is quick but offers one of the best vistas of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. At the top, enjoy panoramic views, a café, and even a small museum dedicated to the Homeland War.
🎟️ A Dubrovnik cable car round trip costs 30€ for adults (17€ one way) and 8€ for children aged 4 to 12. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. You can purchase your tickets on Dubrovnik’s Cable car official website here.
🕒 Dubrovnik’s cable car operates from March to November. It starts at 9.00AM. The closing time varies seasonally: from midnight in summer to 5.00PM in low season.
5. Relax at Beaches in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik offers a mix of beaches for every type of traveler. Banje Beach, just outside the Old Town, is the most famous, with stunning views of the city walls and a lively atmosphere. A little closer to the Old Town is Beach Šulić, a small pebble beach that offers a quieter spot for a swim without straying far from the city center. For something a bit more secluded, Sveti Jakov lies farther east and is popular with locals for its clear waters and peaceful setting. Families often prefer Lapad Bay, where the sheltered shoreline and long seaside promenade create a relaxed, friendly vibe.
💡Tip: Most beaches in Dubrovnik, like much of Croatia, are pebble rather than sand, so bring water shoes if you plan to swim or walk along the shore.
6. Join a Game of Thrones Tour
Dubrovnik served as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for fans of the series. Guided tours take you through the city’s most iconic filming locations, including the medieval City Walls, where epic battles were staged, the imposing Fort Lovrijenac, and the dramatic Jesuit Stairs featured in several key scenes.
✨ This top-rated 2-hour Game of Thrones guided tour takes you through famous locations, including the Red Keep, Iron Throne, Lovrijenac Fortress, and the streets of Cersei’s Walk of Shame, with behind-the-scenes stories from your guide.
7. Explore the Dubrovnik Cathedral
The Baroque Dubrovnik Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is one of the city’s most important landmarks. Rebuilt in the 18th century after a devastating earthquake, its interior features ornate marble altars, gilded decorations, and impressive paintings, including a polyptych of the Assumption by Titian. The cathedral treasury holds a remarkable collection of relics, most notably those of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint.
🎟️ Entrance to Dubrovnik Cathedral is free, but there’s a 4€ admission fee if you want to visit the Treasury (relics room).
🕒 Dubrovnik Cathedral is open everyday from 8.00AM to 7.00PM.
8. Pet All the Cats
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is famous for its friendly cats, which roam freely through the streets, sunbathe on stone steps, and curl up in hidden corners. I personally loved spotting them around every turn and appreciated seeing that they seemed well cared for, adding a playful and relaxed charm to the city. Pausing to watch a cat stretch on a warm wall or curl up in a quiet alley makes wandering the Old Town feel even more magical.
9. Tour the Franciscan Monastery and Museum
Home to one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies, the Franciscan Monastery is a peaceful spot full of history. The museum has religious art, old manuscripts, and exhibits on Dubrovnik’s past.
🎟️ Entrance fee to the Franciscan Monastery is 8€ for adults and 5€ for students; free if you have the Dubrovnik Pass.
🕒 Franciscan Church and Monastery is open everyday from 9.00AM to 5.00PM.
10. Drink at a Cliffside Bar
Dubrovnik has several bars with incredible views, perfect for sunset drinks. The best known are the two Buža Bars, hidden through unmarked stone doorways in the Old Town walls that suddenly open to terraces clinging to the cliffs. With white umbrellas, rocky ledges, and the sound of waves below, they’re perfect for a cold drink at sunset. You’ll often see daring cliff jumpers here too. Prices are higher than average, but the setting is unforgettable and worth experiencing at least once. For a more laid-back alternative, head to Beach Bar Dodo near Fort Lovrijenac, a relaxed spot by the rocks that’s popular with locals.
11. Visit the War Photo Limited Museum
War Photo Limited is a small but powerful museum that documents Croatia’s recent history through photography. Exhibits cover the Homeland War, social issues, and global conflicts, providing perspective beyond Dubrovnik’s tourist charm.
🎟️ Admission to War Photo Limited museum costs 10€ for adults and 6€ for students.
🕒 The War Photo Limited museum is open everyday from 10.00AM to 9.00PM.
Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik
For more inspiration beyond the city, this Dubrovnik travel guide includes top day trips to nearby islands, Montenegro, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Lokrum Island
Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Lokrum Island is a peaceful nature reserve full of lush botanical gardens, historic ruins, and colorful peacocks wandering freely. The island is perfect for a day of exploration: swim in the clear waters of its rocky coves, stroll along shaded paths, or discover hidden corners with serene spots to relax. For sweeping views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic, hike up to Fort Royal, a 19th-century fortress perched at the highest point.
🛥️ Tickets for Dubrovnik-Lokrum boat transfers cost around 7€ and can be purchased directly at Dubrovnik Old Port. Check timetable here.
🕒 Boats between Dubrovnik Old Port and Lokrum run regularly: half-hourly during summer and a bit less frequently in winter.
Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan)
The Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan) are just a short ferry ride away from Dubrovnik. They’re perfect for hiking, beaches, and small village life. Lopud is car-free and famous for sandy Šunj Beach, while Šipan charms with olive groves and historic villas. Koločep, the closest to Dubrovnik, is ideal for quiet walks through pine forests and swimming in turquoise coves. Visiting one or more makes a refreshing day trip away from Dubrovnik’s crowds.
🛥️ Tickets for Dubrovnik to Elaphiti islands boat transfers cost between 4 and 6€ one-way and can be purchased directly at Dubrovnik Old Port.
- Check Dubrovnik-Koločep boat transfer times here
- Check Dubrovnik-Lopud boat transfer times here
- Check Dubrovnik-Šipan boat transfer times here
✨ Save the hassle of planning ferries and logistics with this top-rated full-day Elaphiti Islands cruise. In just one day, you’ll visit Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, enjoy free time to swim or explore, and relax with unlimited drinks onboard included.
Ston and its famous city walls & oysters
About 1 hour from Dubrovnik, Ston is known for its impressive defensive walls, which stretch for almost 5 kilometers and are the second longest in the world after the Great Wall of China. The town also has a long tradition of salt production, and nearby Mali Ston is famous for its oyster farms, considered some of the best in Europe. Visitors can climb parts of the wall for sweeping views of the bay, then enjoy a seafood lunch featuring fresh oysters and mussels.
🚌 Tickets for Dubrovnik to Ston buses cost between 6 and 10€. Check timetable and book your ticket here.
Day trip to Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina)
Mostar is one of the most fascinating day trips from Dubrovnik, offering a completely different cultural atmosphere just a few hours away. The city is best known for its UNESCO-listed Stari Most, the elegant Ottoman-era bridge that arches over the emerald Neretva River. Around it, narrow cobbled streets are lined with traditional shops, colorful bazaars, and mosques that reflect Bosnia & Herzegovina’s rich heritage.
✨ This top-rated Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls tour takes you across the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina, where you’ll explore Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge with a local guide and spend the afternoon swimming or relaxing at the stunning Kravice Falls before returning to Dubrovnik.
Day trip to Kotor (Montenegro)
Just across the border in Montenegro, Kotor is another excellent day trip from Dubrovnik. The town sits at the end of a dramatic fjord-like bay and is surrounded by steep mountains, creating one of the most striking settings in the Balkans. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a maze of stone alleys, charming squares, and historic churches, perfect for wandering. Adventurous travelers can climb the fortress walls up to St. John’s Castle for breathtaking views over the Bay of Kotor.
✨ This top-Kotor and Perast day tour combines a scenic boat cruise along the Bay of Kotor with guided visits to Kotor and Perast, including the chance to explore the island of Our Lady of the Rocks and enjoy free time in Montenegro’s most beautiful towns.
And that’s a wrap on the best things I recommend doing in this Dubrovnik travel guide!
What next? Maybe you want to keep on planning your trip in the Balkans? Then, these articles may interest you:
✨ Balkans Travel Guide: Optimized 3-Week Backpacking Itinerary
Where to stay in Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik’s accommodation is pricier compared to the rest of the Balkans, but you’ll find hostels, guesthouses, and boutique stays to suit most budgets. Stay inside the Old Town for atmosphere and convenience, or just outside in Ploče or Lapad for quieter surroundings and lower prices.
🛏️ Check more available accommodation in Dubrovnik.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in Summer 2025 for a stay during Winter 2025-2026. Prices are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.
Essential Dubrovnik Travel Tips
Is the Dubrovnik Pass worth purchasing?
The Dubrovnik Pass costs 40€ for 1 day, 50€ for 3 days, and 60€ for 7 days, and includes access to the City Walls, several museums, and unlimited use of public buses. Considering that a ticket to the City Walls alone costs 40€, the pass can be worth it if you plan to explore the walls and visit multiple museums. For travelers who just want to stroll the Old Town or focus on one or two sights, the pass may not be as cost-effective.
Look up all the information about the Dubrovnik Pass and purchase yours on the official website here.
Money and ATMs in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is pricier than most Croatian cities, so budgeting ahead is essential. Since Croatia adopted the euro in January 2023, the kuna is no longer in use. Most shops, restaurants, and attractions accept cards, but having some cash is useful for smaller vendors or markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the Old Town and other neighborhoods, though some may charge fees, so withdrawing larger amounts at once can help reduce transaction costs.
How to avoid crowds in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik can get very crowded, especially from 10 AM to 3 PM when cruise ships dock and guided tours start. Here are some tip to avoid the crowds:
- Visit City Walls early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Explore side streets and quieter alleys off Stradun.
- Take day trips to nearby islands and towns for peaceful experiences.
- Consider traveling in the shoulder season (May–June, September–October) for fewer tourists.
Is Dubrovnik safe for solo travel?
Yes! From my experience, Dubrovnik is generally very safe for tourists. I’ve visited twice, years apart, and never once felt uncomfortable, even as a solo female traveller. Still, common-sense precautions include:
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded streets and markets.
- Avoid leaving valuables on the beach.
- Stick to marked paths when hiking or exploring cliffs.
- Follow local guidance during strong winds or rough seas if taking ferries or kayaking.
How long to stay in Dubrovnik?
For a first-time visit, 2 to 3 days in Dubrovnik is ideal to explore the Old Town, walk the City Walls, relax at a beach, and take a short excursion to nearby islands or viewpoints. If you want to enjoy a more relaxed pace, add extra days for day trips to the Elaphiti Islands, Ston, or even Kotor and Mostar. One day is enough to see the highlights (been there, done that), but to truly soak in Dubrovnik’s charm and atmosphere, 3 to 5 days works best.
Budget for Dubrovnik (solo backpacker style)
Due to its popularity, Dubrovnik is certainly not cheap, especially compared to the rest of Croatia and the Balkans! For this reason, it is wise to plan your budget before visiting. Based on my experience, here is a sum-up of your main expenses if you travel to Dubrovnik (solo backpacker style):
- Transportation: ~20€ (return airport shuttle + a couple local bus rides)
- Accommodation in the Old Town: 45€ per night in a hostel dorm; 120€ and onwards in a hotel or a private apartment
- Attractions: 50€ (Dubrovnik Walls + Fort Lovrijenac + return ferry to Lokrum Island)
BONUS: Map of Dubrovnik
To help you make the most of your time in Dubrovnik, I created a map that highlights the best places to visit and activities to do during your trip. I hope you will enjoy it!
💡 To navigate this map, simply use your computer mouse or fingers to zoom in or out, and click on the icons to get more information about each location. You can access the index by clicking on the arrow in the top left corner. Additionally, if you want to save the map to your Google Maps account, click on the star next to the map’s title. To view your saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, and navigate to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Maps’ in the menu. If you want to print the map or view it in a larger window, simply click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.
I hope this Dubrovnik travel guide is helpful and informative!
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