Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city in Croatia, which is best known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, breathtaking sea views, and rich history. In particular, the coastal city has become popular among travellers in the last decade or so, due to the city becoming a main filming location for HBO’s Game of Thrones.
If you’re thinking of visiting Dubrovnik, or need help planning your Dubrovnik itinerary, then this blog will be a useful guide. Let’s dive in!
When to visit Dubrovnik?
The Dubrovnik season runs from March to November. Whilst the summer months offer the best weather for Dubrovnik, the city gets extremely busy and crowded in June, July and August.
For nice weather and fewer crowds, I recommend visiting in May or September.
In regards to eating out, dining out in the city can be pricey, especially in and around the Old Town, so be sure to bring plenty of spending money for your trip if you are looking to eat out multiple times a day.
For food, inside the Old Town, I highly recommend Gradska Kavana Arsenal, with a beautiful view of the port and mountains, but be sure to make a reservation in advance. As well as Cafe Festival which is situated on the main street called Stradun.
Travel & Accomodation in Dubrovnik
The airport is only a thirty minute drive from the city. Ubers are easily accessible and very affordable in Dubrovnik, so you won’t need to worry about getting around if you are staying outside of the Old Town.
With this in mind, I recommend staying in an Airbnb rather than a hotel, as you’ll find these are more affordable per night and also give you a kitchen area to use if you’re looking to save some pennies on food. But, if you’re a seafood lover like me, then you’re in for a treat because most restaurants in the city serve deliciously fresh seafood.
The Best Activities to Include in Your Dubrovnik Itinerary
Now for the fun part, what to do on your trip to Dubrovnik? Having spent a week in the city, I have compiled together the top things to do on your trip, let’s delve in.
1. Explore the Historic Old Town
Dubrovnik’s Old Town, surrounded by the magnificent city walls, and is one of the main attractions for travellers visiting the city.
Inside the Old Town, you can enjoy bustling markets, charming squares and indulge in local cuisine and ice cream. The Old Town boasts historic buildings and cobblestone streets that have retained their medieval charm from the 7th century.
Make sure you take a stop at the hidden Buza Bar, a cliffside spot located just outside the city walls looking over the sea.
The best thing to do inside the town is to simply walk around and explore. Bear in mind that there are lots of steps, so wear some comfy shoes.
Top Tip: Bring your own water bottle and fill it up at one of the free available fountains.
2. Walk the Ancient City Walls & Visit Fort Lovrijenac
If there is one activity you need to do on your trip to Dubrovnik, it is to walk the city walls. The walls offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the picturesque Old Town – you will be stunned!
It takes around one to two hours to walk the entirety of the walls, but what’s great is that there are a couple of bars along the way where you can stop for a sit-down and an Aperol Spritz, or soft drink.
You can purchase the Durvonik pass for 35 euros which grants you access to many museums as well as the City Walls. Your City Walls Pass will be valid for 24 hours, and it also provides you with access to Fort Lovrijenac, which is another must-see on your visit to Dubrovnik. Built on a sheer cliff, it boasts commanding views of the Old Town, once guarding Dubrovnik’s shores.
3. Immerse Yourself in Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Visiting Dubrovnik will allow you to step into the fantasy realm of Game of Thrones by exploring Dubrovnik’s iconic filming locations. You’ll be able to wander through the streets of King’s Landing, gaze at the beautiful Blackwater Bay at Dubrovnik’s West Pier, visit the Red Keep (Fort Lovrijenac) and walk down the iconic steps where Cersei completed her famous walk of shame.
I highly recommend taking a Game of Thrones Walking Tour, to ensure you don’t miss any filming spots. Afterwards, you will be able to indulge in a variety of Game of Thrones merchandise shops, and even sit on the iron throne.
4. Relax at the Beautiful Hidden Gem Sveti Jakov Beach
For a quieter day, escape the crowds and unwind at the serene Sveti Jakov Beach, a hidden gem nestled along Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline. Sveti Jakov Beach (St. Jacob’s Beach) promises a rejuvenating experience with a magical view of The Old Town across the water.
What’s great is that there is a beach bar located on the beach itself, serving food and drinks, so you won’t go hungry. I highly recommend the cheeseburger, in particular, it was 11/10!
5. Explore Lapad & Enjoy a Cocktail at Cave Bar More
Lapad is a pretty neighbourhood, just a 10-15 minute drive from The Old Town. The area is filled with bustling restaurants and pretty beaches. For food recommendations in Lapad, my favourite two restaurants to dine at were Pullover and Madonna.
On your trip to Lapad, you absolutely must visit Cave Bar More. Cave Bar More is a unique subterranean bar carved into natural caves, offering an unforgettable drinking experience. So be sure to enjoy a delicious cocktail inside the caves among the ambient lighting.
6. Party in the Castle Walls at Culture Club Revelin
Culture Club Revelin hosts the legendary “Party in the Castle Walls” within the historic Revelin Fortress. Renowned DJs electrify the ancient stone walls, merging history with pulsating beats, creating an unparalleled nightlife experience in a majestic setting.
Walking through the Old Town during the daytime you wouldn’t even know the nightclub was there, but at nighttime, it truly comes to life. This is a must-do experience on your trip to Dubrovnik.
7. Take a Cable Car Ride to Mount Srđ
Finally, a must-do activity on your trip to Dubrovnik is to embark on a breathtaking cable car journey to Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and beautiful coastline.
This 27-euro cable car is a little pricey, but the experience is an absolute must. If you want to save some pennies perhaps consider taking the 15-euro cable car one way and hiking back down the mountain during the day, which takes around one hour to do so.
At Panorama Restaurant atop the mountain, savour Croatian delicacies and wonderful views. This is frankly the best view in Dubrovnik!
Your Dubrovnik Adventure Awaits
Dubrovnik entices visitors and travellers with its medieval charm, scenic views and cinematic allure. Whether wandering the Old Town or savouring cocktails in Cave Bar More, Dubrovnik promises an unforgettable adventure blending history, entertainment and natural beauty.
Happy exploring!
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