Dubrovnik, Croatia captivates visitors with its dramatically preserved medieval walls, red-roofed old town, and sparkling Adriatic coastline. Often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," this UNESCO World Heritage city seamlessly blends history, architectural beauty, and seaside charm. Meandering through its limestone-paved streets feels like stepping into a living museum, where every corner reveals a new story.
The city's walled old town is the main draw, with highlights like the imposing fortifications, Stradun promenade, Rector’s Palace, and ornate churches. The cable car ride up Mount Srđ rewards you with panoramic views of the old city and shimmering sea, while the island of Lokrum offers a quick nature escape. For Game of Thrones fans, spotting filming locations adds an extra layer of excitement to exploration.
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Dubrovnik’s lively cafés, seafood restaurants, and bustling markets create a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. The city’s tight-knit alleyways hide artisan boutiques and quirky bars, where locals and travelers meet. Summer festivals fill the streets with music and cultural performances, giving visitors an authentic taste of life in southern Croatia.
Getting around Dubrovnik is easy—most of the old town is pedestrian-only, while buses and ferries make exploring nearby beaches and islands simple. Accommodation ranges from historic boutique hotels inside the old city walls to modern resorts on Lapad Peninsula. When it comes to food, fresh seafood, Dalmatian wine, and delicious pastries make every meal memorable.
The best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October), when crowds are thinner and the weather perfect for both sightseeing and swimming. Dubrovnik can get busy and pricey in peak summer, so planning ahead helps you make the most of your trip. Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for navigating the town’s many stairs and cobbled lanes.
The city's walled old town is the main draw, with highlights like the imposing fortifications, Stradun promenade, Rector’s Palace, and ornate churches. The cable car ride up Mount Srđ rewards you with panoramic views of the old city and shimmering sea, while the island of Lokrum offers a quick nature escape. For Game of Thrones fans, spotting filming locations adds an extra layer of excitement to exploration.
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Dubrovnik’s lively cafés, seafood restaurants, and bustling markets create a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. The city’s tight-knit alleyways hide artisan boutiques and quirky bars, where locals and travelers meet. Summer festivals fill the streets with music and cultural performances, giving visitors an authentic taste of life in southern Croatia.
Getting around Dubrovnik is easy—most of the old town is pedestrian-only, while buses and ferries make exploring nearby beaches and islands simple. Accommodation ranges from historic boutique hotels inside the old city walls to modern resorts on Lapad Peninsula. When it comes to food, fresh seafood, Dalmatian wine, and delicious pastries make every meal memorable.
The best times to visit are late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October), when crowds are thinner and the weather perfect for both sightseeing and swimming. Dubrovnik can get busy and pricey in peak summer, so planning ahead helps you make the most of your trip. Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for navigating the town’s many stairs and cobbled lanes.
Expected Weekly Budget
$1100-$1700 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Walk the ancient city walls
- Take the cable car to Mount Srđ
- Swim or sunbathe at Banje Beach
- Explore Lokrum Island
- Visit the Rector’s Palace and museums
- Join a Game of Thrones filming locations tour
- Stroll along the Stradun promenade
- Sample fresh seafood and local wine
Notable Sites
- City Walls of Dubrovnik
- Stradun (Placa)
- Rector's Palace
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Sponza Palace
- Dubrovnik Cathedral
- Mount Srđ Cable Car
- Lokrum Island
General Advice
Dubrovnik is pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate, especially within the old town where vehicles are not allowed. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended as you'll encounter lots of steps and uneven cobblestone streets. Book accommodation and major attractions in advance during peak season, and consider visiting popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Ferries and buses connect the main city with popular beaches and nearby islands, making it convenient to explore beyond the old city walls.
Security & Safety
Dubrovnik is considered a very safe city for tourists, with low crime rates and a visible police presence in tourist areas. Common sense precautions are still advised—keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing, especially during festivals or cruise ship rushes. Stay hydrated in the summer heat, and be careful on steep stairs and fortifications, as surfaces can be slippery. Emergency services are reliable and English is widely spoken in tourist establishments.
Travel Tips
- Buy a Dubrovnik Card for free entry to attractions and public transport savings.
- Visit the city walls early or late to beat the heat and crowds.
- Make restaurant reservations in high season as eateries fill quickly.
- Bring a reusable water bottle; many fountains offer drinking water.
- Carry cash for small purchases, though most places accept cards.
- Use ferries from the old port to visit Lokrum or explore Elafiti Islands.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
- If driving, park outside the old town and use public transport or taxis in.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in September 2023
Walking the old city walls was the highlight of our trip! The views were just incredible. Only downside: a bit crowded when cruise ships docked, but mornings were peaceful.
Traveled here in August 2023
The architecture and stone lanes feel like something out of a fairy tale. Got a little expensive during dinner in the heart of the old town, but the seafood was excellent.
Stayed in October 2023
Dubrovnik was magical—especially with the autumn light! We loved catching the sunset from Mount Srđ. Would definitely come back, maybe in spring next time.
Visited in June 2024
Our Game of Thrones tour guide was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Even if you're not a fan, it's a fun way to see the city. The stairs everywhere can be tough, so be prepared.
Visited in July 2023
The old town has so much charm, and we enjoyed exploring little alleyways off the Stradun. It gets very warm in summer—bring a hat and lots of water!
Visited in May 2024
We brought our two kids and found plenty to do, from boat trips to the aquarium. The cable car ride was a family favorite. Restaurants were very welcoming to children.
Traveled here in April 2024
Some of the best seafood I've ever had! The old port is so atmospheric, especially at night. Prices can be high but the setting is worth it.
Visited in June 2023
Perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Loved sipping wine in the tiny bars tucked away from the crowds. If you want quiet, try staying outside the city walls.
Visited in August 2023
Very beautiful, but I found it a bit too touristy in peak season. Still, the city walls and history are amazing. If you like a more local vibe, explore the Lapad neighborhood.
Stayed in March 2024
I visited for the history and stayed for the food! The pastries at the morning market were a nice surprise, and the city felt very safe even for a solo traveler like me.
Visited in May 2023
Took day trips to Lokrum and the Elafiti Islands—a great way to escape the crowds. The old town is compact, so you can see a lot in just a few days.
Traveled here in October 2023
Loved the blend of history and sea views everywhere we went. The Dubrovnik Card was a great deal for museums. Stairs everywhere, but I got used to it quickly.
Visited in July 2023
Spent hours just people-watching on the Stradun. Bars and nightlife were lively but not wild. Be prepared to pay more for food and drinks inside the city walls.
Visited in September 2023
Sunsets from Fort Lovrijenac are unreal. Traveling alone, I felt completely comfortable and found lots of friendly people to chat with.
Visited in June 2024
We came as a group of friends and had a blast kayaking around the city walls. Wish we’d stayed longer to relax on more beaches. Next time, I’ll book a hotel with a pool!
Stayed in May 2024
Cherry-picked hotel just outside the old town—great value and easy walk in. We really enjoyed the live music at Summer Festival and tried so many local wines.
Visited in April 2024
So much history in one place—the fortifications and palaces are truly fascinating. Local markets had delicious olives and cheese. Would come back in a heartbeat.
Visited in December 2023
Off-season Dubrovnik is quiet and magical. Not all attractions were open, but we enjoyed the peaceful vibe and got great photos with no crowds.
Stayed in September 2023
Our anniversary trip here was just what we hoped for. We had a private guided walk and ended up at a hidden cliff bar for sunset over the Adriatic.
Visited in February 2024
Visited during winter. Some places were closed and it was chilly, but we loved exploring without crowds and found some cozy local cafes for warm meals.
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