Top 10 Things To See and Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia
Discover the top 10 things to see and do in Dubrovnik Croatia, from ancient walls to scenic views, hidden gems to epic day trips.
I’ve just returned from a week exploring Dubrovnik and the surrounding areas for the first time, and it was the most amazing trip to kick off the summer! There are plenty of exciting things to see and do in Dubrovnik, from walking the ancient city walls, to exploring hidden caves along the coast, and this list highlights some of the best ways to experience it all.
About Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a coastal city situated in the southern tip of Croatia on the Adriatic Sea. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. It is known for its distinctive Old Town which is paved with limestone and surrounded by massive stone walls dating back to the 16th century. Dubrovnik was built on a grid system with one main street through the centre, so it is very easy to navigate. With its medieval architecture, rich history, and breathtaking coastal views, Dubrovnik stands as one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
Top Tips for visiting Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik can be very busy during the summer months, so it can make sense to stay in one of the nearby beach resorts, and pop in the morning or evening when the heat and crowds are less intense. Popular resorts include the nearby Lapad Peninsula – 5 mins taxi ride away, or Cavtat, where myself and Sarah stayed, which is about 45 minutes by bus or water taxi from the Old Town. However, don’t drive in or out of Dubrovnik – there is one narrow road into the city and limited parking – use public transport instead, there are plenty of water taxis and buses into the Old Town.
TOP TIP: Check out the monthly cruise schedule on CruiseTimeTables.com. If you are staying outside the city walls you can choose the days which won’t have as many cruise ships docked.
Likewise if you are staying in the city centre, don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of Croatia’s stunning islands. You can also take a trip to nearby Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. I have listed my top things to see and do in Dubrovnik below, as well as my favourite day trips from Dubrovnik.
1. Walk the iconic Old City Walls
No trip to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk along its iconic City Walls. Steeped in history, this remarkable 13th century landmark offers panoramic views over the city’s signature terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
Stretching nearly 2 kilometers, the walls are fortified with 16 towers, three fortresses, multiple moats, drawbridges, and turrets. It’s no wonder that exploring these UNESCO-listed walls ranks as one of the best things to see and do in Dubrovnik.
The full walk can take up to two hours, but you can choose to walk just a portion, which is perfect if you’re visiting during the hotter months, as there’s very little shade along the way.
If the idea of a long walk, or the €40 ticket price doesn’t appeal to you, an alternative (and equally as scenic) option is to kayak around the walls and enjoy the sea breeze.
TOP TIPS: Aim to walk the walls between 6pm and 8pm, just before entry closes—this is one of the quietest times to visit. For an easier route, start at the Pile Gate. Be sure to double-check opening hours in advance, as they can vary by season, and make sure to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
The Dubrovnik Pass is worthwhile purchasing if you are staying for a few days and planning on taking in some attractions. The price starts at €40 which is the same price as walking the city walls and includes this activity.
2. Game of Thrones Walking Tour
Touring Game of Thrones filming locations is now one of the most sought-after things to see and do in Dubrovnik.
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll definitely recognise that several episodes portraying Kings Landing were filmed in the old town of Dubrovnik.
The famous Jesuit Staircase or ‘Shame Steps’ filming site is right in the heart of the city, you can’t miss it, and a large number of scenes were also filmed at Fort Lovrijenac including the Battle of Blackwater. While you can explore this area on your own for free, booking a Game of Thrones walking tour with expert guides offers fascinating insights and fun behind the scenes facts that bring the show’s location to life.
3. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina Day Trip
This was my favourite day trip from Dubrovnik. I loved exploring the beautiful old city of Mostar – famous for its iconic old bridge – Stari Most. The city is the perfect blend of East and West, and is a culture vulture’s dream. Mosques stand beside medieval churches and the city’s winding cobbled streets are a delight to explore. We sampled authentic Bosnian cuisine and learnt about the Bosnian war and the country’s history – it is a city I would recommend everyone to visit.
However, this day trip is a long one – its 11-12 hours with a 6 AM pick up, but it’s absolutely worth it for an unforgettable adventure in a fascinating country, and its priced at just €39! The tour also includes a stop at the spectacular Kravice Waterfalls, which are 25 meters high and separated into 20 falls – it is the perfect location to relax in after exploring Mostar.
TOP TIP: Don’t forget your passport, snacks, sun cream and cash!
4. Hidden Gem Tuk Tuk Tour
Book a local guide and uncover Dubrovnik’s hidden treasures. Travel by tuk-tuk to locations that larger tour buses simply can’t access, giving you the chance to escape the crowds and explore in peace. With small groups capped at just four people, you’ll benefit from personalised attention and a more intimate experience.
Travelling solo and hoping for someone to snap a few photos of you along the way? This tour is perfect for that too.
5. Kotor & Perast, Montenegro Day Trip
Embark on a day trip to Montenegro! With Croatia and Montenegro being so close, it’s possible to visit the dramatic walled town of Kotor and the charming seaside village of Perast in a single day.
Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, is enclosed by old stone walls, and has a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings. You can climb to the top of the city walls for panoramic views over the bay and surrounding mountains.
We also took a boat ride to the renowned man-made islet, Our Lady of the Rocks in Perast. According to legend, the island was created over centuries by local seamen who laid rocks in the bay after each successful voyage. At its heart stands a 17th-century Roman Catholic church. This is a wonderful day trip from Dubrovnik, and is only €50 including pick-up from your hotel.
The drive from Dubrovnik takes around two hours, although be aware that border checks can occasionally cause delays. The good news? A new ferry route from Dubrovnik to Kotor has just launched, which should help reduce border congestion and make the journey smoother and even more picturesque. Find more information here.
6. Cable Car Ride and Panorama Restaurant
Take in breathtaking views of Old Town Dubrovnik from 1352 feet! One of Dubrovnik’s top attractions, especially at sunset, is to ride the three-minute cable car up to the top of Mount Srđ, to get a view of the city and the neighbouring islands. On a clear day you can see up to 60 km, hence the fortress was built here as a lookout point.
Depending on when you visit Dubrovnik, you can also hike the 2km trail to the top. Its not ideal during the hot summer months, but certainly a possibility in the cooler months. Many choose to get the cable car up and walk back down.
At the top, you’ll find Fort Imperial, a 19th-century fortress that houses the Homeland War Museum, which is dedicated to the Croatian War of Independence. This conflict, which took place from 1991 to 1995, is still vivid in the memories of many who witnessed its harrowing events unfold on television. The museum offers a powerful and moving insight into Dubrovnik’s recent history and the resilience of its people during a time of great adversity.
TOP TIP: Consider booking a table at the Panorama Restaurant at the summit for dinner or drinks with a view—just make sure to reserve early, especially during peak season!
7. Three Islands Day Cruise
Did you know Croatia boasts an incredible 1,244 islands, islets, and reefs. Pretty amazing, right? Only 78 are officially classified as islands, and only 47 are inhabited, but you simply can’t visit Croatia without visiting at least one island! Lokrum Island is only 20 minutes from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, but a day trip to the stunning Elaphite Islands is one of the most popular boat trips from Dubrovnik.
Discover the top three Elaphite islands, Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud, where you can swim in crystal clear waters, snorkel in hidden coves, soak up amazing views, and enjoy a day packed with fun and relaxation. I found a top-rated full day cruise that includes a visit to all three islands plus lunch and unlimited drinks all day for just €70!
If you prefer a longer experience, you can organise overnight or twin centre stays between Dubrovnik and some of the larger islands. Some of the most popular Croatian islands that are within easy reach of Dubrovnik are:
Mljet: This is the southernmost of Dalmatia’s larger islands and is beautifully unspoilt and undeveloped. It is only 90 minutes by ferry from Dubrovnik and Its national park is the main attraction. This is a thick expanse of forest with hidden sea coves and is located on the western side of the island.
Korcula regularly invites comparisons with Dubrovnik, and was ruled from Venice for much of its history. The Venetians built its fortified main town which is now filled with upmarket hotels and restaurants. Most of Croatia’s wine comes from the vineyards here too. Journey time is 2 hours from Dubrovnik.
Hvar is the celebrity hotspot that is home to super night life and super-yachts! The journey time is usually around 3.5 hours from Dubrovnik so it’s best to overnight here.
8. Enjoy the sunset at the cliff bars
As well as its dramatic City Walls, Dubrovnik is famous for its hidden caves that line its rugged coastline. One of the best ways to soak in the atmosphere is with a sunset drink at a cliffside bar. Buža Bar is the most famous one, and it is practically a landmark in the city now. It is the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing, and you will catch daredevils leaping from the rocks into the sea below – an activity known as Tombstoning.
We visited just before dinner and were lucky to grab a table right away, though it was getting crowded as we left. Be sure to bring cash, as cards aren’t accepted.
TOP TIP: For more of a hidden gem try Café Bard instead, its a similar vibe but not as well known.
9. Try a Zipline Experience or enjoy dinner in the sky
Do something different and enjoy your dinner up in the sky with spectacular views over the city of Dubrovnik! “Dinner in the Sky” offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining fine dining with breathtaking panoramic scenery from high above.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want to enjoy your dinner with your feet on the ground, there’s still plenty of excitement to be had—try zip-lining over the scenic landscapes or take it up a notch by cycling across a zip line! Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a thrill-seeking foodie, Dubrovnik has unforgettable experiences that will take your vacation to new heights.
10. Beach day or Sunset at Beach Bar Little Star
I’m not sure this place will stay a hidden gem for much longer! Whether you’re staying in Cavtat or just visiting from Dubrovnik, you absolutely can’t miss this stunning spot – Beach Bar Little Star.
With direct access to the crystal-clear sea and a natural rock pool perfect for swimming, it’s an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun on a warm day. The atmosphere is unbeatable, especially at sunset, Since the bar is quite small, be sure to arrive early if you want to secure a good seat and fully enjoy the magical views.
TOP TIP: Don’t forget to take cash, and take surf shoes as most of the beaches along Croatia’s coastline are stoney.
I hope these things to see and do in Dubrovnik help you plan the best trip to the stunning city. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and experiences are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you.
