DubrovnikTravel Guide

Right in the centre of the action within the walls of the Old Town is the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, once a nobleman’s home back in the 16^th century and now known for its gorgeous, converted interiors and friendly hospitality. The Pucić Place, nestled within an 18^th-century baroque palace, is another option, located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Stradun Promenade.

Four-star hotel, Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, is a gem in the wealthy haven that is Babin Kuk with its top hotels and resorts, green spaces and coastal walks. Let your stress melt away as you feast your eyes on views of the Elaphiti Islands and treat yourself to some pampering at the spa and wellness facilities. Elegant Inn is another option in the area for travellers looking for contemporary yet unpretentious accommodation.

This is the area to stay in Dubrovnik if you’re hoping to save rather than splurge. While it’s a no-frills accommodation provider, family-run Red Dwarf Guesthouse has a spotless reputation, making it a top choice among budget-focused backpackers. Then there’s House Smajić, with its breath-taking sea views and situated just a few steps away from a bus stop for effortless and affordable transportation as you head off on your adventures.

The Old Town is full of historical treasures and certainly the city’s most notable attraction. It’s encircled by stone walls that date back centuries, originally forged to protect the city from attacks by invaders. A popular activity is to walk along the perimeter of the remnants of these town walls – which extends approximately 3.4 miles (nearly 5.5km), so don’t forget your hat, comfy walking shoes and sunblock!

Once inside the Old Town there’s plenty to scope out, including the broad pedestrian walkway known as the Stradun or Placa, often referred to as the town’s main “artery”. Glossy from centuries of foot traffic, this busy limestone street cuts the town in half, dividing it into north and south. Some sights to look out for include Onofrio’s Fountain and its trickling spring water, Renaissance-era
St Saviour Church and the Franciscan Monastery (where you can place an order for an elixir from the in-house pharmacy, built in the 1300s).

Island hopping is a popular activity in Croatia and an easy way to escape the crowds swarming through the Old Town. It’s possible to hop aboard a ferry for a 10-minute journey across the water to Lokrum Island with its emerald-green pine trees and winding walking trails. Keep your eyes peeled for peacocks along the way, as well as their colourful fallen feathers along the paths – the perfect souvenirs that won’t cost a penny!

Get a new perspective on the city’s breath-taking landmarks and landscapes by boarding the Dubrovnik Cable Car. On one side you’ll enjoy sprawling views of the Old Town below and, on the other, the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Not willing to compromise on quality while on vacation? You can’t go wrong with a reservation (advance bookings recommended) at one of the 11 Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubrovnik. Let’s just mention two to inspire you. Pjerin specialises in classic Croatian and Mediterranean food with an à la carte breakfast menu and decadent dinners crafted by executive chef, Robert Račić. Then there’s Bistro Tavulin in the heart of the Old Town just behind the church of St Blaise – be sure to sample the sea bass!

It can get pretty hot on the beach in Dubrovnik. Taking a dip in the water is one way to cool off – but an even better way is to stop by one of the many beach bars, which serve delicious cocktails, fruity smoothies and other ice-cold beverages, along with a selection of nibbles and the chance to lap up gorgeous sea views. The upmarket  Cave Bar MORE is one of the unique beach bars in the city, inside a natural cave where the acoustics make it possible to enjoy the sounds of the sea loud and clear even when the waves are out of sight! To enhance the experience there’s even a glass floor where you can check out the stalagmites and stalactites. Food-wise, the menu is very short and sweet but what’s there is pretty wow – have you ever had French fries with truffles and cheddar sauce?

Beach Bar Dodo is on the quieter beach of Sulic and is a quirky, fun place to pop in after some sightseeing or swimming in the sea just below it. Sit on one of the swings enjoying the breeze and the view, sample their popular cocktails and when you feel peckish, whether you order the chicken salad or the shrimp tails, or anything in between, you can’t go wrong. The food here is delicious.

With so much exploring to do, sitting down at a restaurant in Dubrovnik for any amount of time might seem inconceivable. So, if you’d prefer to eat on the go, the great news is that the city is home to a thriving street-food scene. Look out for Take Away Dubrovnik in particular for a selection of fast-food favourites, including juicy burgers and meaty kebabs and Igra for gluten-free street food inspired by Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, European and Croatian menu items. People rave about their homemade bread and hummus, pulled pork and cheesy eggs and fries.

The open-air Gundulićeva Poljana market is open daily in the Old Town, boasting an assortment of vendors selling fresh fruit and veggies and attractive souvenirs. Be sure to stop by here if you’re planning a picnic on the beach or in one of the parks in Dubrovnik. Gruž Market is another top choice for seafood, fresh produce and flowers.

Shopping centres are in short supply in Dubrovnik. But if you must head to one, the DOC Shopping Mall is the answer. It’s in the Lapad district and includes fashion outlets, souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés. There’s also the Minčeta Mall in Gruž which features some big brands like Bugatti and Benetton, perfume stores, accessories, souvenirs and Top Marine – specialising in fishing gear.

If you have plans to get on the Duborvnik cable car, then you simply have to stop by the Ohrid Pearl Shop. Here, you can find handmade jewellery which is crafted using pearls coated in a special silver emulsion. This shimmering coating is sourced from plashica fish scales – a fish endemic to Lake Ohrid. Dubrovačka Kuća is another tourist go-to for gifts to take home to loved ones. You’ll find this double-level treasure trove just beneath the Dominican Monastery.

There’s only one way to explore the Old Town in Dubrovnik, and that’s on foot. Pull on your walking shoes and get those steps in – with so many amazing sights to discover you won’t even notice you’re exercising!

Get a local taxi or order an Uber or a Bolt if you have somewhere specific to be. Just keep in mind that traffic can be a problem during high season, also sometimes making it difficult to secure a lift. You’ll likely be better off hiring your own car.

Walking to the Old Town from certain areas in Dubrovnik can be challenging, especially if you’re visiting in summer when it’s hot. In this instance, catching a bus is your best bet. Look out for Libertas city buses, which link the Old Town to Gruž, Babin Kuk, Lapad and Ploče – and consider investing in a “hopper” ticket if you’re going to be doing more than just a one-off journey.

You can embark on a day of exciting island hopping with the help of the city’s ferries. Make your way to Split, Brač or Hvar or grab a boat transfer to Šipan.

This beach, located in Lapad Bay, is a popular choice for families largely due to its awesome waterslide, guaranteed to have the kids (and the adults) screaming with delight for hours on end. Let the little ones paddle and play to their heart’s content while you grab a cold one from the beach bar and soak up the rays.

Make a beeline for Banje Beach if you’re looking to cool off after a day spent exploring the Old Town. It’s the closest beach to the town with the added bonus of the option to hire jet-skis or go sea kayaking. There’s also plenty of shallow water for the kids to paddle in and the option to upgrade your towel to a sun lounger for a fee.

Looking for a bit of a livelier atmosphere? A go-to beach for younger, more energetic travellers, Copacabana beach is where the party’s at! During high season you’ll be treated to some music blaring from the surrounding beach bars while the kids enjoy the floating water park.

Gradac Park is one of Dubrovnik’s best-kept secrets, just a short walk away from the Old Town and teetering on the edge of a cliff. It’s a green sanctuary in which to escape the crowds. Enjoy a treat for the senses, including the sound of the waves splashing the cliff-face, the salty smell of the sea and the feel of gravel crunching underfoot.

You’ll find some of the best views in the city at Orsula Park, another cliffside green oasis. Along with mind-blowing views, the park is also home to a sizeable amphitheatre which often hosts a variety of shows and concerts. The kids will love the little playground that features play structures made out of old tree trunks.

Birdwatchers from far and wide flock to this stunning park, located in Lapad. The forest comprises plenty of beautiful flora in the form of wild olive trees, towering oak trees and prickly pine trees – and the birds have taken full advantage of this! Look out for the chaffinch and the goldfinch, to name but two of the forest’s feathered residents.