Things to do in Dubrovnik

Things to do in Dubrovnik Old Town

1. Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls

Location / Neighborhood: Dubrovnik Old Town

Best for: First-time visitors, history and panoramic views

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Walking Dubrovnik’s city walls is one of the best ways to understand the layout and history of the Old Town. The complete circuit takes you high above narrow stone streets, terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic, with viewpoints looking towards Lokrum Island and the forts guarding the coastline.

You will pass towers, battlements and sections of the fortifications that have protected Dubrovnik for centuries. Allow at least 90 minutes, and closer to two hours if you plan to stop regularly for photographs. Early morning or later in the afternoon can also be more comfortable during the hottest summer months.

2. Stroll along Stradun

Location / Neighborhood: Dubrovnik Old Town

Best for: Sightseeing, cafés and people-watching

Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Free

Stradun, also called Placa, is the broad limestone-paved street running through the heart of Dubrovnik Old Town. Stretching between Pile Gate and the Old Port area, it provides an easy introduction to some of the city’s most important architecture while connecting dozens of smaller lanes, squares and historic buildings.

Take your time exploring the side streets, stop for coffee or ice cream and look out for landmarks around Luža Square. Stradun is particularly atmospheric early in the morning before the busiest sightseeing period, while an evening walk shows another side of the Old Town as restaurants and cafés begin to fill.

3. Visit Rector’s Palace

Location / Neighborhood: Dubrovnik Old Town

Best for: History, architecture and museums

Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Rector’s Palace is one of Dubrovnik’s most impressive historic buildings and once stood at the centre of government in the former Republic of Ragusa. Its architecture reflects several periods of the city’s history, combining Gothic and Renaissance elements with later Baroque additions.

Today the palace forms part of the Cultural History Museum, with furnished rooms, portraits, furniture, coins and other objects helping visitors understand how Dubrovnik’s ruling classes lived and governed. The elegant courtyard and stone staircase are highlights in their own right, making this a worthwhile stop even if you only have a limited amount of time inside the Old Town.

4. Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srđ

Location / Neighborhood: Old Town / Mount Srđ

Best for: Views, photography and sunsets

Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Cable car ticket required

For one of the widest views across Dubrovnik, take the cable car from just outside the Old Town up to Mount Srđ. The journey is short, but the change in elevation gives you an entirely different perspective of the city walls, Lokrum Island and the surrounding Adriatic coastline.

At the top, you can spend time at the viewpoints, learn more about the area’s recent history or simply sit and watch boats moving far below. Sunset is particularly popular, when the light falls across Dubrovnik’s rooftops and islands. Leave a little extra time if you want to stay for dinner or explore more of the summit area.

5. Explore the Maritime Museum

Location / Neighborhood: St. John’s Fortress, Old Town

Best for: Families, maritime history and rainy days

Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Dubrovnik’s Maritime Museum explores the seafaring tradition that helped the city become a major trading power. Housed within St. John’s Fortress beside the Old Port, its displays cover navigation, shipbuilding, maritime trade and the sailors who connected Dubrovnik with ports across the Mediterranean.

Models of historic vessels, paintings, maps and nautical objects help put the city’s coastal location into context. It is also a useful indoor stop during very hot weather or on a rare rainy day. Because the museum is fairly compact, it can be easily combined with nearby sights such as Rector’s Palace, the cathedral and the harbour.

Beaches, islands and things to do on the water

6. Explore Lokrum Island

Location / Neighborhood: Offshore from Dubrovnik Old Town

Best for: Nature, swimming and half-day trips

Estimated Time Needed: 3–5 hours

Cost / Entry: Ferry and island entry charges apply

A short boat journey from the Old Port takes you to Lokrum, a green island that feels noticeably quieter than central Dubrovnik. Walking trails lead through wooded areas towards monastery ruins, gardens and rocky swimming spots, while peacocks can often be seen wandering around the island.

One of the most popular places to cool off is the small saltwater lake known as the Dead Sea, which is sheltered from the open Adriatic. Game of Thrones fans will also recognise Lokrum from the series and can see the Iron Throne display. Give yourself at least half a day if you want to explore without rushing.

7. Spend a few hours at Banje Beach

Location / Neighborhood: Ploče

Best for: Families, swimming and Old Town views

Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours

Cost / Entry: Free; loungers and activities cost extra

Just beyond the eastern edge of the Old Town, Banje Beach is one of the easiest places to combine sightseeing with a few hours beside the sea. The beach looks back towards Dubrovnik’s historic walls and harbour, creating one of the most recognisable coastal views in the city.

Swim in the clear Adriatic, rent a lounger or try one of the water activities available along the beachfront. Cafés and restaurants nearby make it straightforward to stay for lunch or continue into the evening. Because of its convenient position, Banje can become busy during summer, so earlier visits are usually more relaxed.

8. Kayak beneath Dubrovnik’s city walls

Location / Neighborhood: Coast around Old Town and Lokrum

Best for: Adventure, couples and active sightseeing

Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours

Cost / Entry: Tour prices vary

Sea kayaking gives you a completely different view of Dubrovnik’s walls and fortifications. Instead of looking down from the battlements, you paddle directly beneath the towering stone defences, with the Old Town rising above the water. Guided trips often continue towards Lokrum Island or quieter sections of the coastline, with opportunities to stop for swimming or snorkeling along the way.

Some routes also visit Betina Cave Beach, a small cove reached from the sea. Sunset tours are particularly atmospheric, while morning trips can offer calmer conditions and cooler temperatures during summer.

9. Take a boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands

Location / Neighborhood: Islands northwest of Dubrovnik

Best for: Families, beaches and island hopping

Estimated Time Needed: Half or full day

Cost / Entry: Boat-tour prices vary

The Elaphiti Islands provide an easy escape from Dubrovnik and show off a quieter side of the surrounding coast. Day trips commonly include stops at Koločep, Lopud and Šipan, where you can explore small villages, swim in sheltered bays or simply enjoy time away from the busiest parts of the city.

Some cruises focus heavily on swimming and snorkeling, while others allow more time ashore for lunch and sightseeing. Families can also find themed boat excursions during the main season. Choose a full-day trip if you want a slower pace rather than spending most of your time moving between islands.

10. Watch the sunset from the Adriatic

Location / Neighborhood: Dubrovnik coastline

Best for: Couples, groups and special occasions

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–3 hours

Cost / Entry: Cruise prices vary

Dubrovnik’s coastline is spectacular during the day, but it becomes particularly memorable as the sun drops towards the Adriatic. Sunset cruises range from relaxed sailing trips and catamarans to private yachts and more traditional-style vessels. From the water, you can watch the Old Town walls, Mount Srđ and nearby islands change colour in the evening light while enjoying a much quieter perspective than you get from shore.

Some cruises include drinks or light refreshments, while private options can be tailored around couples or groups. It is an especially good choice for birthdays, anniversaries or simply your final evening in Dubrovnik.

Unique things to do in Dubrovnik

11. Take a Game of Thrones filming locations tour

Location / Neighborhood: Old Town and surrounding Dubrovnik

Best for: TV fans and guided sightseeing

Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours

Cost / Entry: Tour prices vary

Dubrovnik doubled as King’s Landing throughout much of Game of Thrones, and many of its filming locations can be explored on guided walking tours. Stops commonly include Pile Gate, streets within the Old Town and Fort Lovrijenac, while longer tours may extend to Lokrum Island or Trsteno Arboretum.

Guides often carry stills from the series so you can compare scenes with the real locations and learn how Dubrovnik was transformed for filming. Even visitors who are not devoted fans can enjoy the tour, as it provides another way to discover the city’s architecture, history and less obvious corners.

12. Find Buža Bar in the city walls

Location / Neighborhood: Southern edge of Dubrovnik Old Town

Best for: Couples, sunset drinks and sea views

Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours

Cost / Entry: No admission; drinks charged separately

Hidden through an opening in Dubrovnik’s southern walls, Buža Bar feels almost detached from the streets of the Old Town. Tables and terraces cling to the rocks above the Adriatic, with uninterrupted views towards Lokrum and the open sea.

It is a simple concept, but the setting makes it one of the city’s most distinctive places for an afternoon or early-evening drink. Arrive well before sunset during summer if you want a good seat, as the location is no longer much of a secret. The rocky setting and steps also mean sensible footwear is useful.

13. See the former Hotel Belvedere

Location / Neighborhood: Coast southeast of Old Town

Best for: Film fans and unusual Dubrovnik sights

Estimated Time Needed: 30–60 minutes

Cost / Entry: Free to view from public areas

Once one of Dubrovnik’s major luxury hotels, the Hotel Belvedere was badly damaged during the conflict of the early 1990s and has remained largely unused since. Its dramatic coastal setting and distinctive abandoned appearance have made it one of the city’s more unusual landmarks.

Part of the complex also appeared in Game of Thrones, where the former helipad was used for a combat scene. Visit only from permitted public areas and avoid entering closed or unsafe structures. The coastline around the site is impressive in its own right and provides another perspective back towards Lokrum and Dubrovnik.

14. Ride a zipline above Dubrovnik

Location / Neighborhood: Mount Srđ

Best for: Adventure and older families

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2.5 hours

Cost / Entry: Activity fee applies

If you want something more energetic than walking tours and museums, a zipline experience on Mount Srđ combines adrenaline with some of the best elevated views in the region. High above Dubrovnik, the activity takes advantage of the mountain terrain and wide-open landscape overlooking the Adriatic. Depending on the operator, experiences can include several lines and guided sections between them.

It is particularly good for teenagers, groups of friends and families with older children. Age, height and weight limits can vary, so check the current requirements when booking rather than assuming everybody in your group will be able to participate.

15. Have a picnic in Gradac Park

Location / Neighborhood: Near Pile and Danče

Best for: Families, couples and quieter afternoons

Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Free

Gradac Park offers a peaceful contrast to the busy streets inside Dubrovnik’s walls. Located within walking distance of Pile Gate, the park has shaded paths, mature trees and elevated views towards the sea, making it a good place to slow down after several hours of sightseeing.

Pick up pastries, fruit or other local food and turn the visit into an easy picnic away from the crowds. The park also sits close to Danče Beach and Fort Lovrijenac, so it can be worked into a longer walking route without requiring a separate trip across the city.

16. Take a buggy tour on Mount Srđ

Location / Neighborhood: Mount Srđ

Best for: Adventure, scenery and groups

Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Tour fee applies

For a more adventurous way to explore the landscape above Dubrovnik, join an off-road buggy tour around Mount Srđ. These trips head away from the main viewpoints and onto rougher tracks, combining wide views across the Old Town and Adriatic with a bit more action. Tours vary in route and length, but they are generally designed to include several scenic stops rather than simply driving continuously.

It is a particularly good option for groups who want a break from museums, beaches and walking tours. Wear clothes and shoes you do not mind getting dusty, especially during the driest summer months.

Romantic and countryside experiences near Dubrovnik

17. Visit the Love Stories Museum

Location / Neighborhood: Pile

Best for: Couples and unusual museums

Estimated Time Needed: 45–60 minutes

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Just outside Dubrovnik’s historic centre, the Love Stories Museum offers something completely different from the city’s forts and palaces. The collection focuses on real-life relationships, personal objects and romantic stories connected with Dubrovnik as well as people from around the world.

Exhibits also explore local legends and love stories associated with film and television. It is a relatively small museum, so you can visit in under an hour and combine it with nearby Fort Lovrijenac or Pile. Couples may appreciate it most, although the unusual subject matter makes it an interesting stop for anyone looking beyond Dubrovnik’s major historic attractions.

18. Go wine tasting in the Konavle Valley

Location / Neighborhood: Konavle, south of Dubrovnik

Best for: Couples, food lovers and groups

Estimated Time Needed: Half day

Cost / Entry: Tastings and tour prices vary

Drive south of Dubrovnik and the scenery quickly changes from busy coastal streets to vineyards, fields and traditional villages. Konavle is one of the region’s most important wine-growing areas and is known for local producers working with Croatian grape varieties, including Malvasija Dubrovačka.

Winery visits often include guided tastings alongside cheese, cured meats, olive oil or other regional produce. Several estates are family run, giving you the chance to learn more about local winemaking traditions directly from producers. Booking a tour or arranging transport is the easiest option if everyone in your group wants to take part in the tasting.

19. Go horseback riding through the Konavle countryside

Location / Neighborhood: Radovčići, Konavle

Best for: Couples, outdoor adventure and countryside views

Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours including travel

Cost / Entry: Booking required; prices vary

Horseback riding is another way to experience the quieter landscape south of Dubrovnik. Around Radovčići and the wider Konavle region, routes take riders through countryside shaped by vineyards, fields and traditional stone villages, far from the busy streets around the Old Town.

Experiences are typically guided and may be suitable for different ability levels, although individual providers will have their own requirements. Couples can time a ride for later in the day when the light softens across the landscape. Combine it with a winery or countryside restaurant afterwards for a full half-day exploring this more rural side of the Dubrovnik region.

20. Have dinner overlooking Dubrovnik at Panorama Restaurant

Location / Neighborhood: Mount Srđ

Best for: Couples, sunsets and special occasions

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours, plus travel

Cost / Entry: Meal cost; transport or cable-car ticket extra

Panorama Restaurant sits high on Mount Srđ, where the terrace looks directly over Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Lokrum and the surrounding Adriatic. The setting is the main attraction, particularly around sunset when the city below begins to glow and the coastline stretches into the distance.

Pair dinner with a cable-car journey up the mountain and the whole evening becomes an experience rather than simply a meal. It is particularly popular for anniversaries and romantic dinners, so booking ahead is worthwhile during peak season. Allow extra time before your reservation to enjoy the viewpoints around the summit while there is still plenty of daylight.

Best things to do in Dubrovnik with kids

21. Spend the day at Lapad Bay

Location / Neighborhood: Lapad

Best for: Families, younger children and relaxed beach days

Estimated Time Needed: 3–5 hours

Cost / Entry: Free; loungers and activities cost extra

Lapad is one of the easiest parts of Dubrovnik for families to enjoy at a slower pace. The bay combines beaches, pedestrian areas, cafés and places to stop for ice cream or lunch, so you can comfortably spend several hours here without needing a packed itinerary.

Children can alternate between swimming and exploring the waterfront while parents have plenty of places to sit and relax nearby. It is also a good choice later in the day, when you can stay for an evening stroll once the temperatures begin to cool.

22. Explore Fort Lovrijenac

Location / Neighborhood: Pile

Best for: Families, history and dramatic views

Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Built on a rocky outcrop beside Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac is one of the city’s most dramatic historic sights. Its stone stairways, high defensive walls and terraces make it more engaging for children than a conventional museum, while the views back towards the city walls are excellent.

Older children may also recognise it as a Game of Thrones filming location. There are quite a few steps, so it is better suited to children who are comfortable walking and climbing around historic sites.

23. Take a family boat trip along the coast

Location / Neighborhood: Dubrovnik harbour and coastline

Best for: Families, swimming and easy sightseeing

Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours

Cost / Entry: Boat-trip prices vary

A shorter boat trip is a great way to see Dubrovnik without spending another full day walking through the Old Town. Cruise beneath the city walls, pass rocky coves and stop for a swim in clearer, quieter stretches of the Adriatic.

Private or small-group excursions can work especially well for families because the pace tends to be more flexible, with time for swimming, snacks and breaks when younger travelers need them. For children who love boats, the journey itself can be just as memorable as the sightseeing.

24. Discover Trsteno Arboretum

Location / Neighborhood: Trsteno

Best for: Families, gardens and gentle exploring

Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours

Cost / Entry: Admission fee applies

Trsteno Arboretum offers a refreshing change from Dubrovnik’s stone streets and busy waterfront. The historic gardens contain shaded paths, enormous plane trees, fountains, terraces and Mediterranean vegetation overlooking the Adriatic.

Families can explore without the intensity of a major attraction, and there is enough space for children to move around while adults enjoy the gardens and coastal views. Game of Thrones fans may also recognise parts of the estate as the gardens of King’s Landing, giving older children and teenagers another reason to visit.

Seasonal events in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

Taking place each summer, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival transforms historic courtyards, forts, squares and other landmarks into performance venues. The programme usually includes theatre, classical music, dance and cultural performances, giving visitors the chance to experience Dubrovnik’s architecture in a completely different setting. If your trip falls during the festival period, check the schedule before travelling as some of the most atmospheric performances take place in smaller venues where tickets can be limited.

Festivity of St. Blaise

The Feast of St. Blaise celebrates Dubrovnik’s patron saint and is one of the city’s most important traditional events. Held around February 3, the celebrations include religious ceremonies, processions and cultural events centred on the Old Town. It offers a very different atmosphere from the busy summer season and provides an opportunity to see traditions that remain deeply connected to Dubrovnik’s identity.

Good Food Festival

Dubrovnik’s Good Food Festival brings together restaurants, chefs and local producers for a programme built around food and drink. Events can include special menus, tastings, workshops and guest-chef dinners, making autumn an appealing time to visit if Croatian cuisine is a major part of your trip. It is also a good excuse to explore restaurants beyond the most familiar Old Town spots.

Dubrovnik Winter Festival

During the run-up to Christmas and New Year, Dubrovnik’s streets and squares are decorated with lights and seasonal installations as part of the Winter Festival. Concerts, food stalls and family events create a livelier atmosphere without the intensity of the summer crowds. It can be an especially appealing period for visitors more interested in the Old Town, restaurants and cultural attractions than swimming and beach days.

Plan Your Trip to Dubrovnik

• Best beaches in Dubrovnik – Banje, Lapad, Sveti Jakov and more

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Staying in one of our Dubrovnik villas gives you the space to combine busy sightseeing days with time beside the Adriatic. Choose a stay close to Dubrovnik itself for easier access to the Old Town, or look towards Mlini and Cavtat for beaches and a more relaxed coastal atmosphere. Orašac and Slano are strong options for groups looking for additional space and quieter surroundings.

Our current Dubrovnik collection includes properties with private pools, sea-view terraces and generous outdoor areas, with options suited to couples, families and larger groups. The wider destination collection currently spans Dubrovnik itself as well as places including Mlini, Cavtat, Orašac and Slano.