10 Things to Do in Dubrovnik in April
April marks the formal start of spring in Dubrovnik and brings with it better weather and ideal temperatures for discovering the Adriatic Sea, sunsets and bars on the cliffs of Buza Bar, all while the city remains relieved of tourists.
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit Dubrovnik. The weather tends to be pleasant and rainfall is less frequent than in winter, and it's a great time to discover the city with fewer tourists. It's also the perfect time to visit the terraces overlooking the Adriatic Sea, take a boat trip and experience the April Spring Masquerade.
Some of the best things to do in Dubrovnik in April include exploring the picturesque island of Lokrum, watching the sunset from the Old Harbour, taking a full-day trip to Mostar and enjoying the greenways of the hiking trails.
1. Experience the opening of the terrace season on Stradun Street
The opening of the terrace season on Stradun Street in Dubrovnik in April is an exciting experience that marks the beginning of spring and the return of good weather. After the cold winter months, the terraces along Stradun Street reopen their doors to welcome locals and visitors who want to enjoy the outdoors.
Stradun Street is the heart of the city and the protagonist of Dubrovnik's best Game of Thrones tours. The terraces of restaurants, cafes and bars, which are closed from October to March each year, are filled with tables and chairs from April onwards and open with parties and live music.
If you plan to travel during this month you can enjoy a meal, have a drink or just watch the bustle of the street illuminated by the spring sunshine.
On these terraces you can sample the local cuisine, which often includes traditional dishes such as fresh seafood, local wines and exquisite desserts. However, be aware that while April is a month when the weather gets warmer, there can still be some cool or rainy days. Therefore, I recommend you always carry a warm coat to cope with the change of weather.
2. Experience the Spring Masquerade
For a typical local experience, you can't miss the April Spring Masquerade. This traditional festival, also known as Ljepotica or La Bella, marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with enthusiasm in the city. During the Spring Masquerade, the streets are filled with colourful costumes, extravagant masks and lively music, creating a festive atmosphere very similar to that of carnivals.
During the Masquerade, residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to participate in parades, street dances and costume contests. Creativity and imagination are unleashed in every corner of Dubrovnik, making the streets come alive with the magic of the eve.
This celebration also offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and local traditions, as it has ancient roots and has been passed down from generation to generation, preserving the cultural identity of the city, which is why it is unanimously considered one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.
In addition to fun and entertainment, the Masquerade will also offer you the opportunity to sample the delicious local cuisine.
3. Discover the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic at the best time of the year for a boat tour.
One of the best experiences for sea and nature lovers in the city is to take one of Dubrovnik's best boat tours to discover the colours of the Adriatic. During this time of the year the weather conditions are ideal for exploring and enjoying the calm, crystal clear waters, especially as the clear weather, lack of rain and low tourism mean that the sea is not polluted.
On these excursions you can discover hidden coves, lost beaches and picturesque islands close to Dubrovnik. While the weather is not ideal for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing in the waters with a swim, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Dalmatian coastline.
April is a month when Dubrovnik is less crowded with tourists, which means you can enjoy a quieter and more authentic experience on your boat trip. In addition, many excursions also include stops at charming seaside villages where you can sample the delicious local cuisine and explore the culture and history of the region.
4. Tour Lokrum, the green oasis of Dubrovnik
Touring Lokrum, Dubrovnik's green oasis, in April during the early spring is an experience that can be unforgettable. Lokrum is an island just 600 metres off the coast of Dubrovnik and is known for its natural beauty and lush vegetation. In April, when spring is in full swing, the island is transformed into a green paradise.
As you walk around Lokrum you can enjoy botanical gardens, pine forests and winding paths that invite you to explore and immerse yourself in nature. This is also the time of year when the flowers begin to bloom, creating a spectacle of colours and scents that further embellishes the island, which is considered one of Dubrovnik's greatest attractions.
The tranquillity and serenity of Lokrum is also enhanced by the lesser influx of tourists compared to the summer months. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the island at your own pace, without the crowds, allowing you to enjoy moments of peace and tranquillity.
In addition to its breathtaking scenery, Lokrum is also home to a number of interesting attractions, such as the Benedictine Monastery and Maximilian's Garden. During your trip you can also explore these historical sites and discover the rich history of the island, as well as enjoy one of the best places to visit with children in Dubrovnik.
5. Watch the sunsets in Old Harbour
April is one of the best months of the year to watch the sunsets in Old Port, as the clear weather contrasts with the winter rains and allows you to take some of the best photos of your trip, as well as being able to walk around with fewer tourists and less crowds.
From Puerto Viejo you will be able to discover how the sky turns golden and orange tones during sunset, creating a visual spectacle not to be missed. In addition, you can find quiet places to sit and contemplate the beauty of the landscape. You can also learn about the local history and culture, as this port is one of the oldest still operating in Europe.
In addition to the panoramic views, Puerto Viejo also offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. You can stroll along the cobbled streets and discover charming shops, restaurants and cafes, or simply relax in one of the bars by the sea while enjoying the breeze and the changing colours of the sky, making it one of the best things to do at night in Dubrovnik.
6. Take an oyster tasting tour at the best price
Taking an oyster tasting tour is an opportunity not to be missed if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in April. During this month, after the oyster festival in March, prices tend to be more affordable, allowing you to enjoy this marine delicacy at a much cheaper cost.
The Dubrovnik region is known for its fresh and tasty oysters, and an oyster tasting tour will allow you to try different varieties and discover their unique flavour. You can visit local oyster farms and learn about the cultivation process while enjoying oysters fresh from the Adriatic Sea.
In addition to the more affordable price, April also offers the advantage of fewer tourists compared to the summer months. This means that the tasting tours are more intimate and personalised, giving you the opportunity to have a more authentic and exclusive experience. If you are planning to visit Dubrovnik in March, you can also enjoy the Traditional Oyster Festival.
During the tour, oyster experts will share with you their knowledge about the history and tradition of oyster production in the region. You will also learn how to pair oysters with local wines, which will elevate your gastronomic experience to another level. Come and experience this adventure!
7. Make the most of the low tourist traffic and tour Mostar
One of the great benefits of visiting Dubrovnik, apart from discovering its beautiful beaches and paradisiacal landscapes, is getting to know the nearby sites using the city as a base. In April, you'll also have the opportunity to make the most of the low tourist numbers and explore Mostar, which is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is famous for its iconic bridge and rich history.
In April the low tourist numbers will give you the chance to explore the city in a more relaxed and authentic way. You can stroll through the narrow streets of the old town unhurriedly, admiring the Ottoman architecture and discovering the charming local cafes and shops. In addition, you'll find a pleasant climate in the spring, as winter is usually very harsh in Bosnia.
Apart from the famous Old Bridge, you can also explore the Turkish quarter and enjoy authentic Bosnian cuisine in local restaurants.
Mostar can be reached by public transport or car rental, but the best alternative is to book one of the full-day tours from Dubrovnik. During the tour you can also see the mountain scenery.
8. Take a trip to the Elaphite Islands and discover their colourful trails.
April is an ideal month to explore the Elaphite Islands and discover their colourful trails. These islands, located in the Adriatic Sea, offer breathtaking natural beauty and are a perfect destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
The Elaphites can be reached on your own, on an organised tour or you can even find transfers from Dubrovnik airport, as it is a very popular destination and it is very common for tourists to arrive in the city interested in getting to know this place exclusively.
With warm and pleasant temperatures you can enjoy picturesque scenery, rolling hills covered in greenery and panoramic views of the sea. There are also well-marked trails that lead you through forests, olive groves and picturesque coastal villages.
The Elaphites are an archipelago of small, picturesque islands, each with its own charm and beauty, and in addition to hiking, these islands also offer the opportunity to enjoy quiet beaches, water sports in crystal clear waters and discover charming hidden bays and coves.
9. Take a hiking tour along the city's green trails
If you're a nature enthusiast you don't need to scour the islands to find the best hiking trails, as you can also opt for a hiking excursion along the paths outside Dubrovnik, which blossom as spring arrives in the city, filling the landscapes with a variety of flora and fauna.
This popular destination has a network of well-marked trails that will take you through hills, forests and beautiful coastal areas. In April, temperatures are pleasant and the weather is perfect for walking out doors without the sweltering heat of summer, and you'll be able to do so on quick tours, which is ideal if you're planning a short stay. If that's the case, here's a list of things to do in Dubrovnik in 3 days.
During the excursions you can enjoy panoramic views of the old city, the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands from the Dalmatian coast. You can also explore historical sites and discover ancient ruins that will tell you about the rich history of the region at some of the highest points of the city.
10. Enjoy the Adriatic breeze from the stalls of Buza Bar
If you are planning to visit Dubrovnik in April you can discover one of the most beautiful places in the city, which are the bars and restaurants located in the Buza Bar stalls. This place is located on the cliffs outside the old town and offers unmissable views of the Adriatic and a cool breeze coming in from the sea.
Like the terraces on Stradun Street, the Buza Bar stalls open in April with parties and celebrations. This place, located outside the city walls, allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the historic centre and immerse yourself in a more relaxed and relaxed atmosphere, with its casual and bohemian atmosphere.
Please note that Buza Bar starts to become one of the most visited places in the city from April onwards, so I advise you to book your place in advance or avoid arriving at the last minute, especially during the sunniest and most pleasant days of the month.
Temperatures in Dubrovnik in April
Temperatures in Dubrovnik in April are mild and pleasant, marking the beginning of spring in the region. During this month, the weather begins to warm up and the city comes alive with the arrival of longer, sunnier days.
Temperatures average 17°, although they can easily reach 25° on the hottest days. In the evenings, temperatures drop slightly, but are still quite pleasant, hovering around 15° at the very least.
These moderate temperatures allow you to enjoy walks around the city without the oppressive summer heat or winter chill that you will experience if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in December or during the winter months. This is the ideal time to explore the alleys of the old town and enjoy the panoramic views in outdoor activities.
Dubrovnik's April tourist crowds
April is one of the best months to visit Dubrovnik outside the high season because of the pleasant weather, but also because of the low number of tourists at the time, allowing you to explore the city at your leisure, get tickets and places for all the attractions and also take some of the best photos of your trip.
You can also make the most of your visit by touring the islands and nearby towns in a more relaxed and less crowded tour than Dubrovnik in June or during the summer months.
Prices in Dubrovnik in April
Prices in April tend to be more affordable compared to the summer months, when tourist demand is higher. During this time of year, many hotels, restaurants and tourist activities offer lower rates and special promotions to attract visitors.
In April you can find offers and discounts on accommodation, allowing you to stay in high quality hotels at reasonable prices. In addition, restaurants often have special menus or seasonal promotions, giving you the opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine at cheaper prices.
Sightseeing activities, such as guided tours, boat trips and attraction tickets, also tend to have more affordable rates in April. This will allow you to enjoy all the wonders Dubrovnik has to offer without spending so much money.
What to pack for a visit to Dubrovnik in April?
April is one of the months when the weather in Dubrovnik really starts to improve, although the temperature may still be a little cool at night, so I recommend you pack the following in your suitcase:
- Light coat
- Lightweight T-shirt
- Comfortable shoes
- Lightweight trousers
- Woollen jumpers
- Hiking shoes
- Umbrella
- Rain jacket
- Swimming shorts