10 Unmissable Things to Do in Dubrovnik – A Complete Guide to Croatia's Pearl

Dubrovnik is one of those places that completely lives up to the hype. With its towering stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and shimmering views of the Adriatic, it’s no wonder it’s nicknamed “The Pearl of the Adriatic.” But while it’s easy to get swept up in the beauty (and the crowds), there’s so much more to this city than just its postcard-perfect looks.

I visited Dubrovnik in the middle of our Croatia road trip and, honestly, I didn’t expect to fall for it as hard as I did. I thought it would be all Game of Thrones tours and cruise ship traffic—but between the cliff bars, hiddengems, and getting lost in the quiet alleys before breakfast, I totally fell under its spell. And now I’m here to help you do the same.

In this guide, you’ll find 10 unforgettable things to do in Dubrovnik, from the obvious bucket list musts (hello, city walls!) to some more off-the-radar gems that will help you experience the city like a traveler, not a tourist. I’ve pulled these tips straight from my own experience, backed by research, local insights, and a healthy dose of wanderlust.

10 Unmissable Things to Do in Dubrovnik – A Complete Guide to Croatia's Pearl

Top things to do in Dubrovnik
How to get to Dubrovnik
Best Areas & Places to Stay in Dubrovnik
How many days to explore Dubrovnik
The best time to visit Dubrovnik
Where to eat in Dubrovnik

Top things to do in Dubrovnik

1. Make sure to purchase the Dubrovnik Pass

If you’re planning to visit a few major sights in Dubrovnik, getting the Dubrovnik Pass is a smart move. It includes free entry to the city walls (which normally costs a hefty €35 on its own), plus access to top attractions like Fort Lovrijenac, the Rector’s Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, and several museums.

The pass also covers public bus rides within the city, which makes getting around super easy if you’re staying a bit outside the Old Town.

We bought the 1-day pass and definitely got our money’s worth just by visiting the walls and a couple of museums—but there’s also a 3-day and 7-day option if you want to explore more at a slower pace.

💡 TIP – We stayed for 1 night and the 1 day Dubrovnik Pass is valid for 24 hours.

You can purchase it online or at tourist information centers in the Old Town, and it activates with your first use.

2. Walk the City Walls at Golden Hour

There’s no better way to get your first look at Dubrovnik than from above. Walking the ancient city walls gives you a bird’s-eye view over the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops and out across the sparkling Adriatic.

We went late in the afternoon and watched the golden light bathe the city in this dreamy glow—it was pure magic. Try to start your walk around 5–6pm to beat the heat and the biggest crowds. It takes about 1.5–2 hours if you stroll and stop for photos (which you definitely will).

💡TIP – Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and buy the Dubrovnik Pass.

3. Sip a Cocktail at Buza Bar (Through the Wall)

Hidden behind a tiny “cold drinks” sign and carved straight into the cliff, Buza Bar is one of Dubrovnik’s most iconic hangouts—and for good reason. You’ll sit literally on the rocks, with waves crashing below and the sun dipping into the sea right in front of you.

It’s a bit of a “find it if you can” kind of place, but once you’re there, you’ll never want to leave. No food, no frills—just cold drinks, views for days, and a few brave swimmers jumping off the rocks.

4. Take the Cable Car Up Mount Srđ

For panoramic views that make you feel like you’re standing on top of the world, the Mount Srđ cable car is a must. At the top, you’ll find sweeping vistas of the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and endless blue sea.

It’s also a great spot for photos (obviously) and a peaceful break from the buzz of the Old Town.

5. Wander the Old Town Before the Crowds Arrive

There’s something magical about Dubrovnik in the early morning. The cobbled streets are empty, the light is soft, and you can actually hear your footsteps echo through the alleys.

We set our alarm for sunrise one day and had the place almost to ourselves. It’s the perfect time to explore without dodging tour groups, and you’ll get some of your best photos while the city is still waking up.

6. Visit the Rector’s Palace

Once the seat of the Republic of Ragusa’s government, the Rector’s Palace is now a beautifully preserved museum showcasing the city’s political history, elegant architecture, and baroque flair. The courtyard alone is worth the visit—and it’s included with your Dubrovnik Pass, making it an easy and rewarding cultural stop.

7. Visit the West Harbor

Tucked just outside the city walls near Fort Lovrijenac, the West Harbor (also known as Kolorina Bay) is one of the most scenic and peaceful places to start your day in Dubrovnik. Early in the morning, before the city wakes up and the tour boats roll in, the bay is incredibly calm and quiet—perfect for a refreshing swim with a view of the fortress rising dramatically above you. Locals love coming here for a dip, and if you’re lucky, you might have the whole place to yourself. It’s also a popular kayaking launch spot later in the day, so arriving early is key for that serene, magical atmosphere.

8. Visit Fort Lovrijenac (The Red Keep)

Nicknamed “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar,” Fort Lovrijenac sits just outside the city walls and offers one of the best views of the walls. It’s also a filming location for Game of Thrones fans (aka the Red Keep).

You only need about 30–45 minutes to explore it, but it’s worth it for the epic panoramas and fewer crowds. Plus, your entrance ticket to the City Walls usually includes free access here!

9. Explore the Franciscan Monastery & Pharmacy

This peaceful spot right near Pile Gate is home to one of the oldest still-operating pharmacies in Europe. The monastery cloister is quiet, photogenic, and full of history. It’s also included in the Dubrovnik Pass, so don’t skip it if you’re wandering the Old Town.

10. Relax at Banje Beach

Located just outside the Ploče Gate, Banje Beach is Dubrovnik’s most famous city beach—and it lives up to the hype. With soft white pebbles, loungers, and a full-service beach bar, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

The views are what really make it special: from your towel or cocktail table, you’ll have a front-row seat to the Old Town’s walls and Lokrum Island floating in the distance. It’s lively in the afternoons and evenings, but still feels upscale and relaxed, with just the right balance of buzz and beauty.

How to get to Dubrovnik

Getting to Dubrovnik is straightforward, whether you’re arriving by air, land, or sea. The city is served by Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), located about 20–25 minutes from the Old Town. During the travel season (especially May through October), there are plenty of direct flights from major European cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.

If you’re traveling within Croatia, you can now drive to Dubrovnik without crossing any international borders, thanks to the newly opened Pelješac Bridge. This bridge connects the Dubrovnik region with the rest of Croatia, bypassing the previous border crossing at Neum and making road trips from Split, Makarska, or anywhere along the Dalmatian Coast much smoother.

Alternatively, long-distance buses and ferries (especially from Split, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet) are also great options if you’re exploring the coast without a car.

Best Areas & Places to Stay in Dubrovnik

💡 TIP – Book early if you’re traveling in June–September, as the best places fill up fast.

Old Town – For First-Timers & History Lovers

Staying inside the city walls means you’re right in the heart of the action. Expect charming stone buildings, narrow alleyways, and lots of stairs—but also the easiest access to everything.

St. Joseph’s Boutique Hotel – Elegant and romantic, with beautifully restored interiors and top-notch service.
Prijeko Palace – A quirky boutique hotel with artistic flair, rooftop terraces, and unique rooms.

💡 TIP – No cars allowed in the Old Town, so pack light and be ready to walk. Old Town = stairs, so double-check accessibility if that’s a concern.

Ploče – For Views, Luxury & Easy Access

Just east of the Old Town, Ploče is one of Dubrovnik’s most desirable neighborhoods. It offers stunning views of the city walls and sea, while still being just a few minutes’ walk to the center.

Villa Dubrovnik – A 5-star luxury hotel built into the cliffside with incredible views and a private beach.
Hotel Excelsior – A historic and stylish choice with a waterfront terrace and spa.
Pearl of Adriatic (where we stayed) – A beautiful apartment with an absolutely spectacular view over the Old Town and Lokrum Island. The location was perfect—just a short walk to the city walls, yet quiet enough to enjoy peaceful mornings with coffee and sunset drinks on the balcony.

Lapad – For Beach Days & a Local Feel

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, Lapad is a great choice. It’s about 10–15 minutes by bus or taxi from the Old Town, with a palm-lined promenade, beaches, and lots of cafés.

Hotel More – Built right into the cliffs with a sea cave bar and seaside sunbeds.
Royal Blue Hotel – Sleek and modern, with rooftop pools overlooking the sea.
Apartments Villa Boban – Spacious, family-run, and a great option if you want beach access and a local touch.

How many days to explore Dubrovnik

If you’re planning your first visit to Dubrovnik, I’d recommend giving yourself at least two nights to really soak it all in. We only stayed for one night, and while we managed to squeeze in the highlights—walking the city walls, enjoying sunset drinks at Buza Bar, and wandering the Old Town—it definitely felt rushed.

With two nights, you’d have time to explore at a more relaxed pace, take a half-day trip to Lokrum Island or Mount Srđ, and still have time to enjoy a beach or two without constantly checking the clock. Dubrovnik may be compact, but it’s layered with history, views, and hidden corners that truly shine when you’re not in a hurry.

The best time to visit Dubrovnik

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is during the shoulder seasons—May to early June or September to early October. These months strike the perfect balance: the weather is sunny and warm enough for swimming and sightseeing, the sea is beautifully clear, and the crowds are far more manageable compared to the peak summer rush. We visited at the end of May, and it was honestly ideal.

Cruise ships dock in Dubrovnik nearly every day during peak season, especially from May to October—there’s no single “cruise-free” day. Most itineraries include one or two ships in port daily, with arrivals typically between 6–9 am and departures by 4–8 pm.

The city limits cruise liners to two at a time and around 4,000 passengers per day to help manage crowds. So, whether you visit on a Monday or a Saturday, you’re likely to share the Old Town with cruise passengers.

💡 TIP – To avoid peak moments, try planning your most-wanted activities early in the morning or later in the evening, when the cruise crowds have yet to arrive or have already departed.

Where to eat in Dubrovnik

Trattoria Carmen (Old Town)

Tucked away on a quiet street just steps from the Cathedral, Trattoria Carmen is one of Dubrovnik’s best-kept culinary secrets. This family-run gem serves up fresh, seasonal seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes with a modern twist. There are only a handful of tables, so it feels intimate and personal—like dining at a local friend’s home. The menu is small but spot-on, changing daily based on what’s fresh at the market.

Must-try – The octopus carpaccio and grilled Adriatic fish of the day.

Nautika (Pile Gate)

For a romantic dinner with incredible sea views, you can’t beat Nautika. Perched right outside the Pile Gate overlooking Fort Lovrijenac, this fine-dining spot offers a refined take on Dalmatian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, local herbs, and elegant presentation. It’s ideal for a special occasion or just a memorable meal to end your trip on a high note.

Must-try – Lobster from Vis Island and the signature fish risotto.

If you have any questions about how to visit Dubrovnik in Croatia or if you want to share your experience, comment below!

More information on Croatia

Armed with our cameras & drone we’re always on the lookout for the next adventure!
We’ve been traveling together since 2020 and the best adventures are yet to come!
Read our full story here

Hi, I'm Charlotte

10 Unmissable Things to Do in Dubrovnik – A Complete Guide to Croatia’s Pearl

Top things to do in Dubrovnik