Best Things To Do in Dubrovnik

If you're planning a visit to Croatia, you can't miss Dubrovnik on your itinerary. This city on the Adriatic coast is one of the oldest cities on the Balkan peninsula and is also a paradise of city walls, pristine beaches and historic sites that will leave you in awe during your trip.

Some of the best things to do in Dubrovnik include exploring the old town and its cobblestone streets, taking a Game of Thrones tour, watching the sunset from the viewpoints on Mount Srd, visiting the Elafiti Islands, hiking to the Blue Cave and going on a shopping tour of Stradun Street.

Walking through Dubrovnik's Old Town is like walking through a history book that comes alive in every cobbled alleyway and centuries-old wall. This enclave on the Croatian coast is a medieval gem that has stood the test of time, and as you stroll through its cobbled streets you'll find yourself surrounded by architecture and an atmosphere that evokes the past.

One of the best ways to get to know the city within the city walls is to opt for a guided tour, especially if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in June or during the summer months, when the weather is very pleasant for such experiences. During the tour you can visit the Pile Gate, the Ploče Gate and the Minceta Tower.

The Placa, or Stradun, is the main street of the Old Town and is the vibrant heart of Dubrovnik life. Here you will find shops, cafes, restaurants and places of interest. Orlando's Column, a monument symbolising the city's freedom, is an iconic landmark in this central square.

You can also visit the Church of San Blas and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, two architectural gems that reflect the religious and artistic splendour of the region during the rule of the Roman Empire. A visit to the Old Town is a must if you want to get to know the city, even if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in 3 days or even less.

Dubrovnik has experienced a revival in recent years and one of the reasons for this phenomenon was its status as the setting for the popular Game of Thrones series. Nowadays, one of the best things to do in the city is to take part in a themed tour to discover the places that served as the backdrop for the intrigues and battles of the Seven Kingdoms.

During the best Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik you will visit the Pile Gate, which was transformed into the King's Landing Gate for the series. This is where these tours usually start and will also take you along the same steps and walls that characters such as Cersei Lannister and Tyrion Lannister walked, allowing you to discover the unique atmosphere of the series.

The Fortress of Lovrijenac, known as the Red Fortress in Game of Thrones, is another highlight of the tour. This structure becomes the setting for many sequences in the series, including the famous tournament in honour of King Joffrey. From the top of the fortress, you can also get views of the city and the sea. If you plan to visit Dubrovnik in April or during the spring months, the clear weather is ideal for watching the sunset.

Luza Square, which was transformed into the Market Square of King's Landing in the series, is another crucial spot on the tour. This lively, central area becomes a place where strategies were woven and crucial decisions were made, making it a fan-favourite site recognised by fans of these popular experiences.

Losing yourself in Dubrovnik's city walls is like stepping into a world of panoramic views and historical charm that will transport you back to the city's golden days. The city walls, which surround the old town, are an architectural masterpiece that offers a unique tour of its kind.

The entrance to the ramparts is through the Pile Gate, which will give you access to the upper part of the ramparts. From there you can admire the terracotta roofs of the city, the historic buildings and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic stretching to the horizon. If you are planning to visit Dubrovnik in December, you will be able to see the eve decorations that make Dubrovnik so distinctive.

As you go along, you'll come across a series of towers and fortifications that make for an even more spectacular panoramic view. One of the most photographed towers is the Minceta Tower, which offers a privileged view of the old town and its surroundings. The Pile Balcony and the Ploče Balcony are also great places to capture the beauty of the scenery.

Also, touring the top of the city walls is one of the best things to do at night in Dubrovnik. But if it's all about admiring the city walls, you can also see the illuminated skyline of the city walls and the city from a night boat trip along the Adriatic coast.

Watching the sunset from the viewpoint of Mount Srd in Dubrovnik is an experience that fuses the magic of nature with the historical beauty of the city. At the top of this hill you can watch the last rays of the retreating sun merge with the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic and the medieval walls of Dubrovnik, creating a visual spectacle not to be missed.

The journey to the top of Mount Srd is an adventure in itself. You can choose to ride the cable car that takes you to the top in a matter of minutes, offering you a gradual panoramic view of the city unfolding at your feet. Or, if you are a nature lover, you can also choose to walk along the winding paths, surrounded by forests, that will take you to the top. If you plan to visit Dubrovnik in September, you can also soak up the autumn colours.

From the lookout point on the hill you can watch the city's lights begin to come on, creating a magical contrast between the reddening sky and the urban sparkle. But I tell you, if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in 7 days or for a few days more, I recommend you return to Srd at least once more to discover the sunrise, which will be just as magical.

Watching the sunset from the viewpoint of Mount Srd is a visual treat that will give you a unique perspective of the city and its natural surroundings, which is why it is often recommended in the best tours of the city. You can also combine your visit there with other activities, such as zip-line tours or hiking.

Visiting the idyllic Elafiti Islands offers an escape to an island paradise of natural beauty and serenity. Comprising a group of islands in the Adriatic Sea, this archipelago is often included in the best excursions from Dubrovnik. Several transport options allow you to get there and discover its unique charm, although one of the best alternatives is to take a boat tour to this destination.

The Elafiti Islands, which include Koločep, Lopud and Šipan, are just off the Croatian mainland. A common option is to take a ferry from the port of Gruz, which will take you to any of these islands on a scenic journey.

The journey itself is an experience, giving you the opportunity to admire the stunning seascape as you make your way to these little island gems.

Once on the Elafiti Islands you can explore the cobbled streets of the villages, enjoy the pristine beaches and relax in nature. The island of Lopud is known for its sandy beaches, while Šipan offers a tranquil and authentic atmosphere that will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city. The latter is also the easiest to reach, so you can visit even if you plan to visit Dubrovnik in 1 day.

To take a tour to Dubrovnik's Blue Cave is to embark on an underground adventure that will take you into a world of astonishing brilliance and mystery. Located on the coast of the island of Koločep, this natural wonder is a must-see destination for lovers of exploration and scenic beauty.

The Blue Cave takes its name from the sun's rays that filter through an underwater opening and reflect off the crystal clear waters, creating a deep blue glow. This illumination is projected onto the walls and ceiling of the cave, flooding the space with a magical aura. As you enter the cave in a small boat, you will find yourself surrounded by the bluish reflection.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters surrounding the Blue Cave, providing an even more immersive experience. Feeling the sea breeze as you float in the blue waters is an experience that evokes a sense of peace and connection with nature. It is also a very peaceful place, making it an ideal plan if you plan to visit Dubrovnik with children or a family.

A tour to Dubrovnik's Blue Cave is more than just an expedition; it is an opportunity to admire the beauty of nature in its purest form and be amazed by the visual spectacle of this hidden corner.

A shopping tour of Stradun Street will allow you to get to know the commercial heart of the city and experience a unique fusion of history and modernity. This iconic cobbled street, also known as the Placa, is the epicentre of activity in the old town and offers a variety of shops, boutiques and markets.

The shops along Stradun Street offer a selection of products ranging from fashion and accessories to handcrafted goods and souvenirs. From elegant clothing to Mediterranean-inspired garments, this place is a shopping destination that caters to all tastes and preferences.

If you plan to visit Dubrovnik in March, you can also make the most of the seasonal discounts before the start of summer.

A characteristic feature of Stradun is its unique mix of modern shops in historic buildings. You can walk into a contemporary boutique in a building with centuries of history, creating a charming atmosphere that fuses the past and the present. The street also has shops selling local products such as coral jewellery, hand-painted pottery and other handcrafted items.

Located on the island of Mljet, this national park is a sanctuary of wildlife, crystal clear lakes and lush vegetation that contrasts with the deep blue Adriatic Sea. The experience of exploring this natural oasis on a full-day excursion from Dubrovnik is a perfect getaway for those seeking a deep connection with nature and a respite from the urban bustle.

Mljet National Park is distinguished by its two saltwater lakes, the Great Lake and the Little Lake, which are surrounded by dense forests and inviting trails to explore. There you can walk along the trails or rent a bike for the tour.

One of the highlights of the tour is the boat crossing to St. Mary's Island, where you can visit the Benedictine monastery and enjoy the tranquillity of the place. From the tower of the monastery, you can enjoy unmissable panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area.

Whether you plan to hike the trails, sail on the calm waters of the lakes or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings, this experience in a paradisiacal corner of Croatia will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

To take a photo at the Jesuit Stairs in Dubrovnik is to capture a moment in a place that is both an architectural symbol and a historical testimony of the city. These stairs, which connect the Church of St. Ignatius with the Collegium Ragusinum, are a magnificent example of Baroque architecture and one of the city's most iconic postcards, as well as the tourist epicentre of the region, so much so that transfers from Dubrovnik airport often end there.

The Jesuit staircase offers an evocative atmosphere, with its white marble steps and ornate railings leading up to the church. The scene is framed by the façade of the Church of St. Ignatius, a structure featuring baroque elements and an elegant bell tower. In the background, you will catch a glimpse of the Clock Tower, another masterpiece of Dubrovnik architecture.

From the Jesuit steps, you are within walking distance of other sights worth a visit. The Pile Gate, a historic entrance to the city, will lead you to the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik's old town. In addition, the Sponza Palace and the Franciscan Monastery are nearby landmarks worth discovering.

Visiting Banje Beach in Dubrovnik will allow you to experience a paradise of crystal clear waters and panoramic views that merge into an experience of relaxation and natural beauty. This popular beach, located within walking distance of the old town, is a coastal retreat that combines vibrant city life with the tranquillity of the Adriatic Sea.

This beach offers a unique blend of sand and stone, creating a comfortable surface for sunbathing and relaxing. With turquoise waters that merge with the sky, the setting is perfect for swimming, kayaking, snorkelling or simply enjoying a refreshing dip. It's also one of the best year-round weather on offer, whether you're planning to visit Dubrovnik in October or during the summer months.

For those looking for a more lively experience, Banje Beach has water sports facilities and entertainment areas. You can rent jet ski equipment, take part in banana boat rides or simply enjoy a cocktail at one of the nearby beach bars.

Visiting Banje Beach in Dubrovnik is an opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds: the serenity of the beach and the vibrancy of the city. The beach's strategic location, with its breathtaking view of Dubrovnik and access to crystal clear waters, provides an ideal environment for relaxation and recreation.