The Ultimate Dubrovnik Guide: Jewel of the Adriatic

Nestled along the stunning Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a city that effortlessly weaves history, culture, and natural beauty into a seamless tapestry. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik beckons travelers with its ancient city walls, charming cobblestone streets, and captivating blue waters.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you on a virtual tour of this enchanting city, covering its main attractions, delectable food options, transportation, and essential tips for an unforgettable visit. Dubrovnik was my absolute favorite in Croatia, and I hope it’s yours too!

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Sites in Dubrovnik

There are numerous main attractions and hidden gems throughout Old Town and beyond. You can easily see all of the attractions within two days, while spending some time to relax on the many beaches in between.

We unfortunately only had one full day during our trip due to a flight delay and missed connection, but we packed in as much as we could.

City walls

Begin your journey with a walk along the iconic 1940m long City Walls and fortifications that encircle the Old Town. These walls offer panoramic views of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and the nearby islands.

The Minceta Fortress is a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts while providing insights into the city’s defensive past.

The full walk around can take 1-2 hours depending on crowds and speed. If you’re a fan of HBO’s Game of Thrones, then you’ll easily recognize King’s Landing with all the terracotta roofs and Minceta Fortress as the House of the Undying.

Tickets for the City Walls are priced per season. In the busy summer season, tickets are €35.00 per adult. Children 18 years and younger are €15.00.

During the off season of November until February, tickets are cheaper at €15.00 per adult and €5.00 for children. You can purchase your ticket on site or online prior to visiting.

There are three entrances to get onto the walls at Inner Pile Gate, St. Lucas Fortress and St. John’s Fortress. I recommend getting there when they open at 8:00am because it will get busy!

Lovrijenac Fortress

Also known as St. Lawrence Fortress, Lovrijenac Fortress sits on the western wall of Dubrovnik. With its origins dating back to the 11th century, Lovrijenac Fortress has witnessed countless battles, sieges, and shifts in power.

Its strategic positioning of 35m above sea level provided an unparalleled vantage point for defending against maritime threats, as well as a symbolic reminder of Dubrovnik’s resilience.

If you bought tickets for the City Wall, Lovrijenac Fortress is included in those same tickets. The fortress opens at 8:00am and can take an hour or more to explore. Be prepared to walk up a lot of stairs! Once again, Lovrijenac was featured in HBO’s Game of Thrones in numerous scenes.

Old Town

Encircled by its iconic walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site exudes a timeless charm that captivates visitors from the very first moment.

The network of cobblestone streets leads you through a tapestry of architectural wonders, from Gothic and Renaissance facades to Baroque churches and ornate palaces.

Dubrovnik’s main street, Stradun, is a bustling hub lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes.

Stroll down this pedestrian-only street to absorb the city’s vibrant atmosphere and admire architectural wonders like the Onofrio Fountain. You can easily get lost wandering through the alley ways.

Banje Beach

Enjoy a visit to Banje Beach, a stretch of paradise just steps away from the city’s ancient walls. With its inviting crystal-clear waters, Banje Beach offers the perfect retreat for sunbathing, swimming, and taking in panoramic views of the Old Town’s skyline.

Relax on a lounger or engage in water sports for an exhilarating coastal experience. Like many European beaches, be prepared for the stones instead of sand. Water shoes are a must when traveling to these beaches.

Mount Srd

To capture the city’s grandeur from above, take the exhilarating Dubrovnik Cable Car ride to Mount Srd. As you ascend, the panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic unfold before your eyes, leaving you awestruck by the city’s sheer beauty.

At the summit, explore the Fortress Imperial and take in sweeping vistas that reveal the Old Town’s intricate layout and the surrounding landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Take the cable car up for sunset for a panoramic view over of the city. The Panorama Restaurant & Bar sits up top of Mt. Srd where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the gorgeous views. You definitely need a reservation well in advance if you’re interested in visiting.

Tickets for the cable car can bought on site or in advance online. Per each adult, a one way trip is €15.00 and a round trip is €30.00. Children age 4-12 are €4.00/€7.00.

Lokrum Island

Escape the bustling city for a day and embark on a short ferry ride to Lokrum Island, a lush haven teeming with botanical wonders and tranquility.

Wander through its fragrant gardens, encounter the island’s resident peacocks, and dip into the soothing waters of the Dead Sea, a saltwater lake ideal for a refreshing swim.

Lokrum’s unique blend of nature and history, including the Benedictine Monastery ruins, offers a serene break from the urban pace. You can also hike up to the fortress ruins at the top of the hill.

Lokrum Island is free to visit, but you will need a ticket for the ferry ride. You can purchase tickets here for €27.00 per adult and €5.00 per child ages 5-18.

If you don’t purchase your tickets in advance, there can be a long line at the port to wait in at times. We bought ours standing right outside the boat from a QR code due to the long line.

Buža Bars I & II

Venture outside the city walls to find Buža Bars, hidden cliffside spots offering breathtaking views of the sea and a chance to cliff dive into the azure waters.

Grab a cold beer or non-alcoholic drink, lay out on your towel, or swim in the Adriatic. The Buža Bars are cash only, and if you want to go for sunset, go early to grab a seat before it gets busy.

Sponza Palace

This elegant Renaissance palace is home to the Dubrovnik State Archives and a rich collection of historical documents, making it a treasure trove for history buffs. Sponza Palace sits right inside of Old Town near the Ploče Gate.

Tours Around Dubrovnik

There are many tours you could take in or from Dubrovnik. One of the most popular tours would be a Game of Thrones tour to see all the filming sites around the city.

Another tour option is to the Elafiti Islands. If you love guided tours, I’m sure you’ll be able to find one for your interests.

Food in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors and local ingredients. Don’t miss these food and drink experiences. Being a coastal city, Dubrovnik boasts an array of fresh seafood options.

Lady PI-PI – One would say one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik, Lady Pi-Pi offers exquisite views with fresh seafood. Prepare to hike up all the Old Town stairs, but the views and food are worth it. The restaurant is small and unfortunately, no reservations, but if you arrive when they open, there may be a limited or no wait.

Gradska Kavana Arsenal – This stunning restaurant sits right on the port by Old Town. Gradska Kavana Arsenal offers fresh Croatian dishes such as ahi tuna, oysters, seafood risotto, as well as meat options. Reservations for patio seating are recommended. The beef carpaccio and ahi tuna were absolutely divine.

Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe – Another highly rated restaurant with beautiful views that sits right outside of West Harbor. Dubravka 1836 offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine for meals all day. Reservations recommended.

Taj Mahal Old Town – Bosnian food made with love, tradition, and family values. Taj Mahal Old Town offers soups, meat and vegetable dishes, salads, and desserts such as baklava. Reservations are recommended.

Nautika – Located right outside of Pile Gate on the Western Harbor, this fine dining restaurant offers fresh seafood caught daily, local grown vegetables, as well as meat and vegetable dishes with stunning views. Nautika was recognized as the sixth most romantic restaurant in the world by Condé Nast Traveller magazine. 

Restaurant & Bar Rudjer – Offering breakfast, lunch, snack, or dinner, Rudjer focuses all their recipes with fresh, locally grown ingredients. Highly rated, with live music, and reservations recommended.

Peppino’s Gelato – One of the best gelato options in Dubrovnik, Peppino’s offers a variety of flavors from caramel goat milk, tiramisu, strudel, carob and fig, and many more. With two locations in Old Town, you can’t miss out.

aROMA Gelato – Another favorite gelato place of ours, and to our surprise all throughout our Croatian adventures. aROMA offers water based sorbet and dairy based gelato, plus more!

Getting Around Dubrovnik

Getting around Dubrovnik is relatively easy, with various options to explore. There are local buses that provide an affordable way to venture beyond the Old Town, connecting you to nearby neighborhoods and attractions. Walking is the best way to explore Old Town.

The compact layout makes it convenient to navigate, allowing you to discover hidden alleys and charming corners. Depending on where you’re staying or exploring, there can be a lot of stairs!

For panoramic views of Dubrovnik and its surroundings, take the cable car to Mount Srd. The ride offers stunning vistas, especially during sunset. Explore the nearby Elafiti Islands or Lokrum Island by hopping on a ferry. These islands offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Helpful Tips for Dubrovnik

1. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. Summer can get quite busy due to cruise ship arrivals and prime travel time in Europe. We went in July and I wish we went another time.
2. The Mediterranean sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay comfortable while exploring. The summer heat can be extreme, so also make sure to stay hydrated in the sun or bring a portable fan. Our Airbnb had AC, so we would take mid afternoon breaks from the heat.
3. Invest in the Dubrovnik City Card for access to numerous attractions, public transportation, and discounts. You can purchase a one day, three day, or seven day card.
4. As of January 2023, the official currency switched from Croatian Kuna to the Euro. Cards are widely accepted except Amex, but cash is always key to traveling and tipping.
5. Remember that Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be respectful of its history and local customs.

Dubrovnik is a destination that captures the essence of both the past and the present. Its history, culture, and culinary delights create an unforgettable experience for travelers. From walking along ancient walls to savoring local delicacies, the city offers a blend of experiences that cater to every type of explorer. As you plan your visit to this Adriatic gem, keep this guide handy to make the most of your time in Dubrovnik and create memories that will last a lifetime. You won’t regret visiting Dubrovnik!