Discovering the best things to do in Dubrovnik is essential for any visitor to Croatia’s magnificent coastal city. As local experts, we’ve explored every corner of this UNESCO World Heritage site to bring you the most comprehensive guide for 2025. From walking the ancient city walls to finding hidden beaches, we’ll show you how to experience Dubrovnik like a local.
Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik: Essential Activities
1. Walk the Ancient City Walls
The iconic 2-kilometer circuit of Dubrovnik’s walls offers breathtaking views over terracotta rooftops and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, these defensive structures reach heights of up to 25 meters. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
Insider Tip: Purchase the Dubrovnik Pass for free wall access plus entry to other attractions.
2. Explore Mount Srđ
Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for panoramic views extending up to 37 miles on clear days. The summit offers:
- Spectacular sunset views over the Old Town
- Napoleon’s Imperial Fortress
- Homeland War Museum
- Restaurant Panorama
3. Discover Old Town Treasures
The UNESCO-protected Old Town contains numerous historical sites:
- Stradun (main street)
- Gothic-Renaissance Rector’s Palace
- Franciscan Monastery with Europe’s oldest pharmacy
- Orlando’s Column
- Onofrio’s Fountain
4. Game of Thrones Locations
Visit famous filming locations:
- Jesuit Staircase (Cersei’s Walk of Shame)
- Fort Lovrijenac (Red Keep)
- Pile Gate area
- West Harbor (Blackwater Bay)
5. Island Hopping
Take a short boat ride to:
- Lokrum Island (15 minutes)
- Elaphiti Islands (30-45 minutes)
- Green and Blue Cave tours
6. Beach Experiences
Best beaches include:
- Banje Beach (closest to Old Town)
- Sveti Jakov Beach (local favorite)
- Copacabana Beach (perfect for families)
7. Cultural Immersion
Experience local culture through:
- Morning market at Gundulić Square
- Traditional Dalmatian cuisine
- Folk performances at Lazareti
8. Water Activities
- Sea kayaking tours around city walls
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Blue cave snorkeling
- Island hopping boat tours
9. Historical Museums
Must-visit museums:
- Maritime Museum
- Cultural History Museum
- Rupe Ethnographic Museum
- Modern Art Gallery
10. Local Food Scene
Experience authentic Croatian cuisine:
- Fresh seafood at Proto
- Traditional pastries at Dolce Vita
- Local wines at D’vino Wine Bar
11. Hidden Gems
Lesser-known spots:
- Buža Bar (cliff-side bar)
- Dominican Monastery gardens
- Hidden beach coves
- Love Stories Museum
12. Sunset Spots
Best locations for sunset viewing:
- City Walls near Pile Gate
- Mount Srđ viewpoint
- Gradac Park
- Sunset sailing trips
13. Shopping Experience
- Traditional crafts on Stradun
- Local artisan shops
- Gundulić Square Market
- Designer boutiques
14. Evening Entertainment
- Summer Festival performances
- Live music at Troubadour Jazz Café
- Sunset dinner cruises
- Cultural events at Revelin Fortress
15. Day Trips
Perfect excursions from Dubrovnik:
- Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro coastal towns
- Mljet National Park
- Korčula Island
Best Time to Visit
Visit between May-June or September-October for ideal weather and fewer crowds. July-August brings peak season crowds and higher prices.
Dubrovnik Attraction Prices 2025
Essential Attractions:
- City Walls: 35 EUR (adult), 15 EUR (children)
- Cable Car: 25 EUR round trip
- Lokrum Island: 28 EUR (includes ferry)
- Dubrovnik Card: 35 EUR (1-day), 55 EUR (3-day)
Getting Around Dubrovnik
Public Transport:
- Bus lines: 1A, 1B, 1C (Old Town connections)
- Airport shuttle: 15 EUR one-way
- Water taxis: 10-15 EUR per route
Private Options:
- Taxi starting fare: 5 EUR
- Uber available
- Rental bikes: 15 EUR/day
Where to Stay
Accommodation options for every budget:
- Luxury: Hotel Excelsior
- Mid-range: Hotel Lapad
- Budget: Old Town Hostels
Practical Tips
- Book attractions in advance during peak season
- Get Dubrovnik Card for savings
- Visit popular sites early morning
- Carry water and sun protection
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
Other useful links
Croatia Budget Guide
Split Sightseeing Guide
Island Hopping Guide
