Dubrovnik is one of those cities that genuinely lives up to the hype. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the coastline is spectacular, and the surrounding islands are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Whether you're visiting for two days or two weeks, here's a guide to the best things to do in Dubrovnik so you can make the most of every moment.
No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk along the famous City Walls. Stretching nearly two kilometres around the Old Town, the walls offer some of the most spectacular views in Croatia, looking out over terracotta rooftops, the crystal-clear Adriatic, and the green outline of Lokrum Island in the distance.
The walk takes about 90 minutes at a relaxed pace and is best done early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. Bring water and sunscreen. The views from the highest point, the Minceta Tower, are worth every step.
Dubrovnik's Old Town is compact enough to explore entirely on foot, and getting lost in its marble-paved streets and steep staircases is one of the great pleasures of any visit. Start on Stradun, the broad main promenade that cuts through the heart of the Old Town, then wander into the side streets and neighbourhoods that most visitors never find.
Look out for the Franciscan Monastery near the Pile Gate, home to one of the oldest functioning pharmacies in Europe. Step into any of the small churches dotted throughout the Old Town. Climb the steps up to the hilltop neighbourhoods for views back down over the rooftops. The Old Town rewards slow, curious exploration.
The sea around Dubrovnik is just as impressive as the city itself, and getting out on the water is one of the best things you can do during your visit. The Elaphiti Islands are just a short boat ride away, offering crystal-clear coves, pine forests, and car-free villages that feel worlds apart from the bustle of the city.
For a shorter escape, Lokrum Island is just 10-15 minutes from the Old Port and makes for a perfect half-day trip, with a botanical garden, a ruined monastery, and a population of free-roaming peacocks. Dubrovnik Boat Club offers a range of boat tours to suit every schedule and group size, from full-day island hopping to private sunset cruises.
For the best panoramic view of Dubrovnik, take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srd. The ride takes just four minutes and deposits you 405 metres above the city, with views stretching along the coast in both directions and out to the Elaphiti Islands on clear days.
At the top there is a small museum dedicated to the Homeland War, which provides important context for understanding modern Croatian history. The cable car runs throughout the day and into the evening, and the sunset from the top is genuinely extraordinary.
Dubrovnik's food scene is better than its tourist-heavy reputation might suggest. Head to the morning market on Gunduliceva Poljana square in the Old Town for fresh local produce, honey, lavender, and cheese from nearby farms. For lunch, duck into the side streets away from Stradun to find smaller konobas serving fresh seafood, grilled fish, and traditional Dalmatian dishes at reasonable prices.
In the evening, the restaurants along the waterfront come into their own. Fresh oysters from Ston, grilled sea bass, black risotto made with cuttlefish ink - the local cuisine is simple, seasonal, and genuinely delicious. For a full guide to the best restaurants in Dubrovnik, see our dedicated restaurant guide.
Dubrovnik is an excellent base for exploring the wider region. The charming coastal town of Cavtat is just 30 minutes by boat. The medieval salt town of Ston, famous for its oysters and extraordinary walls, is an hour by car. And the Peljesac peninsula offers some of Croatia's best red wine just a short drive away.
For a full overview of the best day trips from Dubrovnik, see our guide to charming towns near Dubrovnik and our roundup of the best boat trips from Dubrovnik.
Two to three days is enough to see the main highlights. If you want to include day trips to the islands or nearby towns, four to five days gives you a much more relaxed experience.
May, June, and September are ideal. The weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and the city is significantly less crowded than in July and August.
Absolutely. It's one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in Europe, and the surrounding coastline and islands make it even more special.
The Old Town is walkable. For the islands and coastal towns, boats are the best option. Dubrovnik Boat Club can arrange private transfers and tours throughout the region.
