From ancient city walls and island escapes to sunset kayaking and secret beaches, this is my personal guide to the best things to do in Dubrovnik. Packed with insider tips, fun facts, and sensory moments, it’s everything you need to explore the Pearl of the Adriatic like a local.
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To me, Dubrovnik isn’t just a city – it’s a living time machine. The moment I step through its ancient gates, I’m surrounded by centuries-old stone walls, red rooftops, and winding streets that whisper stories from the past. Yet, just beyond the history, there’s the sparkle of modern-day luxuries, delicious food, and views that make my heart skip a beat. Whether I’m chasing history, soaking in the Adriatic sunset, or hunting down the best seafood in town, Dubrovnik never fails to surprise me. So, let me take you through my favorite things to do in Dubrovnik – from the famous landmarks everyone dreams about to the hidden corners only locals seem to know.
1. Walk the Ancient City Walls
If Dubrovnik wore a crown, its medieval city walls would be the brightest jewel. The first time I walked the full 2 kilometers, I felt like I was floating above the city – on one side, the endless shimmer of the Adriatic with the faint scent of salt in the air; on the other, a patchwork of red rooftops and narrow stone streets winding below. The muffled hum of the old town drifts up, mixing with the cries of seagulls gliding overhead. Every few steps, I stop just to take it all in – each view feels like it belongs on a postcard.
My tip? I always go early in the morning, when the air is still cool and the stones haven’t yet warmed under the sun, or just before sunset, when the golden light makes the walls glow and the shadows stretch across the city. Either way, it’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Dubrovnik.
Fun fact: The walls aren’t just medieval relics – they once hid secret passageways used to smuggle supplies into the city during sieges. Locals still tell stories of how these hidden routes saved Dubrovnik more than once.
2. Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car for Stunning Views
Whenever I want to see Dubrovnik from a completely different perspective, I take the cable car up to Mount Srđ. In just a few minutes, I’m soaring above the terracotta rooftops, the sea breeze rushing in through the windows and carrying the scent of salt and pine. At 405 meters above sea level, the lookout reveals the entire old town cradled by its medieval walls, with the Adriatic stretching out until it melts into the horizon. On a clear day, I can even make out distant islands that look like they’re floating in blue glass.
I love arriving just before sunset. The Panorama Restaurant becomes my front-row seat to a golden performance – the sea turns liquid gold, the sky blushes pink, and the lights of Dubrovnik begin to twinkle far below.
Fun fact: Mount Srđ was once a key defensive position during the 1990s siege of Dubrovnik. The small Fort Imperial at the top now houses a war museum, and its thick stone walls still bear the scars of the battles fought here.
3. Explore the Old Town & Stradun
Every time I step through the gates of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, it feels like I’ve wandered straight into a medieval fairy tale. The polished limestone streets beneath my feet almost shine in the sunlight, and the air carries a mix of fresh sea breeze and the aroma of coffee drifting from tiny cafés tucked between ancient walls. Stradun, the main promenade, is my favorite place to start – a wide, elegant street lined with centuries-old buildings, where the rhythm of footsteps and distant church bells sets the pace.
I always take my time exploring. The Rector’s Palace whispers of noble history, the Sponza Palace holds centuries of documents and secrets, Onofrio’s Fountain offers a refreshing splash of cool water, and the Church of St. Blaise feels like a warm embrace from the city’s patron saint.
Fun fact: The smooth shine of Stradun’s stones isn’t just from age – it’s from centuries of footsteps polishing the surface. Locals joke that if you walk it often enough, your shoes will get a better shine than at any cobbler.
4. Visit Lokrum Island – A Green Escape
When the city heat starts to rise, I love escaping to Lokrum – just a short, breezy 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port. The moment I step off the boat, the air changes. It’s cooler, scented with pine and wild herbs, and filled with the soft rustle of leaves. I wander through the island’s botanical gardens where exotic plants from all over the world grow side by side, and the ruins of the old Benedictine Monastery feel almost frozen in time.
My favorite spot is the Dead Sea, a calm, crystal-clear saltwater lake tucked between the rocks. Floating there, surrounded by greenery, feels like pressing pause on the world.
Fun fact: Lokrum isn’t just green – it’s alive with free-roaming peacocks and rabbits, descendants of those brought here over a century ago. The peacocks were a gift from the Austrian archduke Maximilian in the 19th century, and today their calls echo across the island like a tropical soundtrack.
Local tip: Boats to Lokrum stop running in the early evening, so plan your return trip carefully – unless you fancy becoming one of the island’s permanent residents alongside the peacocks.
5. Relax at Banje Beach or Pasjača Beach
When I need to slow down after exploring the city, I head straight for the beach. Banje Beach is my go-to when I want to be close to the Old Town – it’s just a short stroll away, and the view of Dubrovnik’s walls rising from the sea is nothing short of magical. The sound of gentle waves mixes with the distant hum of the city, and I can’t resist ordering a cool cocktail to sip while my feet sink into the warm pebbles.
But when I crave something wilder and more secluded, I make the trip to Pasjača Beach. Getting there takes a bit of effort – a steep path carved into the cliffs – but the reward is worth it: sheer rock walls, turquoise water so clear you can see the pebbles beneath your toes, and the sense that you’ve stumbled onto a secret.
Fun fact: Pasjača Beach didn’t even exist until the 1950s. It was formed when locals dumped rocks from a cliffside tunnel project into the sea, and over time, the waves turned them into the soft, golden pebbles you see today.
Local tip: If you’re heading to Pasjača, bring water and snacks – there are no facilities, and you’ll want to stay for hours once you see it.
6. Take a Game of Thrones Tour
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, welcome to King’s Landing! Many key scenes were As soon as I step into certain corners of Dubrovnik, I half expect to see a dragon fly overhead – because for Game of Thrones fans, this isn’t just Dubrovnik, it’s King’s Landing. Walking through the filming locations feels like slipping between two worlds: one real, one straight from the screen.
On a guided tour, I’ve stood atop Lovrijenac Fortress, gazing out over the Adriatic just like the Lannisters did from the Red Keep. I’ve strolled along the shores of Blackwater Bay, the scent of salt in the air, imagining fleets of ships gathering for battle. And yes – I’ve descended the Jesuit Staircase, picturing Cersei’s infamous “Walk of Shame” scene (minus the bell-ringing and glares from the crowd).
The best part? At the Game of Thrones museum, you can sit on a replica Iron Throne – and yes, I have the photo proof.
Fun fact: The production team digitally removed all modern elements from the city during filming – from awnings to satellite dishes – to preserve the illusion of King’s Landing. Some locals even had to temporarily change the paint color of their shutters.
Local tip: Even if you’re not on an official tour, you can visit most of the filming spots on your own – but go early in the morning to avoid both the crowds and the blazing midday sun.
7. Visit Fort Lovrijenac – The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik
Every time I see Fort Lovrijenac rising from its 37-meter-high cliff, I understand why it’s nicknamed “The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik.” Climbing up the stone steps, I can feel the sea breeze getting stronger, carrying the scent of salt and wild herbs from the nearby rocks. When I finally reach the top, the view takes my breath away – the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops on one side, and the endless blue of the Adriatic on the other.
It’s easy to imagine the fort’s past, with watchmen scanning the horizon for approaching ships. Standing inside its thick stone walls, I can almost hear the echo of footsteps from centuries ago. Visiting this fortress is not just a history lesson – it’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Dubrovnik.
Fun fact: The fort’s entrance bears an inscription that reads Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro – “Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world.” It’s a powerful reminder of Dubrovnik’s proud independence. Source: Wikipedia
Local tip: If you’re visiting in summer, check the schedule for the Dubrovnik Summer Festival – the fort transforms into an open-air stage for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and watching it here under the stars is pure magic.
8. Try Local Dalmatian Food
One of my favorite things to do in Dubrovnik is to eat – and here, food isn’t just fuel, it’s a way of life. Dalmatian cuisine is simple, fresh, and full of flavor, always letting the ingredients shine.
I can never resist starting with Black Risotto (Crni Rižot) – inky, silky, and rich with the taste of the sea. Every bite carries the briny depth of squid ink and the tenderness of freshly caught seafood. Then there’s Peka, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked under an iron bell over hot coals until they melt in your mouth. And for dessert? Dubrovnik Rozata – a creamy caramel custard scented with rose liqueur that tastes like sunshine in a spoon.
When I want seafood perfection, I head to Proto for fine dining. For a warm, homestyle touch, Taj Mahal serves incredible Bosnian dishes. And if I’m craving the most authentic Peka, it’s worth the trip to Konoba Dubrava, where the flavors taste like they’ve been perfected over generations.
Fun fact: Rozata isn’t just a local dessert – it’s been a Dubrovnik specialty since the 13th century, and its recipe has barely changed in hundreds of years.
Local tip: If you want to try Peka, always call ahead – it takes hours to prepare, and most restaurants make it only by reservation.
9. Sunset Kayaking Around the City Walls
Of all the things to do in Dubrovnik, sunset kayaking is the one that always makes me feel like I’m in a dream. I push off from the shore just as the sky begins to glow, the sea warm against my hands as the paddle dips in and out of the water. From this angle, the city walls rise above me like a golden crown, their stones catching the last light of the day.
As I glide along, I pass hidden sea caves where the air smells faintly of salt and limestone. Lokrum Island sits in the distance, its pine trees dark against the fiery sky. The grand finale comes as the sun slips into the horizon, painting the Adriatic in shades of orange and pink.
Fun fact: Betina Cave Beach, one of the stops on many kayak tours, is only accessible from the sea – which means you’ll have it all to yourself if you arrive outside of tour hours.
Local tip: Book a guided sunset tour that includes snorkeling. The combination of paddling, swimming, and watching the city light up from the water is unforgettable – and you’ll avoid the daytime heat.
10. Discover Cavtat – Dubrovnik’s Quieter Neighbor
When I need a break from the buzz of Dubrovnik, I hop on a short, scenic 30-minute ride to Cavtat. This little seaside town feels like stepping into a slower rhythm – the kind where you can stroll along the palm-lined waterfront without bumping into a crowd, hear the gentle clink of sailboat masts in the marina, and smell freshly grilled fish drifting from family-run restaurants.
The beaches here are calm and inviting, with crystal-clear water perfect for a lazy swim. Afterward, I love finding a table right by the marina, where I can linger over fresh seafood and watch the sun sink behind the hills.
Fun fact: Cavtat was once a Roman settlement called Epidaurum, and you can still spot remnants of its ancient past hidden among the modern streets.
Local tip: Arrive in the late afternoon – you’ll enjoy the golden-hour glow over the bay and have your pick of waterfront tables for dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Dubrovnik
What is the best time to visit Dubrovnik?
The best time to visit Dubrovnik is from May to October, when the weather is warm and all attractions are open. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in April, May, September, or October for a more relaxed experience.
How much time do I need to explore Dubrovnik?
A minimum of two to three days is ideal for exploring Dubrovnik’s highlights, including the Old Town, city walls, Lokrum Island, and beaches. If you want to take day trips or enjoy more relaxed sightseeing, plan for at least four to five days.
Is Dubrovnik expensive for travelers?
It is one of Croatia’s more expensive cities, especially during peak season. However, you can still enjoy it on a budget by staying outside the Old Town, eating at local konobas (taverns), and using public transportation instead of taxis.
What are the best day trips from Dubrovnik?
Popular day trips from Dubrovnik include:
Cavtat – A peaceful seaside town with stunning views.
Montenegro – Visit Kotor and Perast, just a short drive away.
Korčula – A charming island known as “Little Dubrovnik.”
Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina – Famous for its stunning Old Bridge.
Do I need cash in Dubrovnik, or can I use a card everywhere?
Most restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions accept credit cards. However, some smaller shops, markets, and local transport require cash, so it’s good to carry some euro (EUR).
Your Dubrovnik Story Awaits
Dubrovnik is so much more than a tourist city – it’s a living museum, a seaside paradise, and a Game of Thrones fantasyland all in one. Whether you love history, beaches, or food, Dubrovnik is the perfect travel destination.
For me, Dubrovnik is never just a destination – it’s a feeling. It’s the way the morning light spills over the city walls, the sound of waves brushing against stone, and the taste of freshly grilled fish by the marina. Every visit gives me a new story, whether it’s paddling past the walls at sunset, uncovering a hidden alley in the Old Town, or drifting in the still waters of Lokrum’s Dead Sea.
The beauty of this city is that it offers something for every mood. One day you might be exploring centuries-old forts; the next, you’re sipping wine with your toes in the sand. And the best part? You can weave all these moments together into your own perfect itinerary.
No matter how many times I return, I keep finding more things to do in Dubrovnik – and each one leaves me with memories as vivid as the city’s sunsets. So pack your curiosity, your camera, and maybe a good pair of walking shoes, and let Dubrovnik write its magic into your travel story.
Some of the stunning photography featured in this article is sourced from the talented contributors on Unsplash – a platform for freely usable visuals that capture Croatia’s magic perfectly.
