Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik

1. The Walls

The most popular attraction in Dubrovnik, the fortress walls are a must when visiting “The Pearl of the Adriatic.” These famous walls tower 80 feet above the city and take at least two hours to walk around with plenty of stops at the cafes lining the walls and taking pictures of the city.

If you are visiting during the summer months, make sure to go right away in the morning. Dubrovnik is extremely warm and there is very little shade on the walls. Also, be prepared to get your steps in, there are many stairs throughout the walls.

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2. Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is a small island just off of the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Lokrum Island has a unique history including a legend that Richard the Lionheart was shipwrecked here in the 1100s and built the church on the island.

Visitors can reach the island by ferries or sea kayaks. The island is a perfect day trip to escape the heat of the city and get out and explore the Botanical Gardens or the ruins of a Benedictine Monastery. Also during the summer you can snorkel and swim off of the island.

3. Stradun Street

The central street in Dubrovnik, Stradun Street runs from Pile Gate to the port with large squares at each end. This street is the main vein throughout city with steep, romantic streets shooting off leading towards the walls. Lining the large boulevard are souvenir shops, gelatorias, restaurants, and clothing stores.

4. Pile Gate

Pile Gate is the main entrance to the old town and the most famous gate of this walled city. Situated on the western side of city, Pile Gate was built in 1537 and once had a functioning wooden drawbridge that was closed every evening. After you enter the gate you can either take the stairs or a wide ramp to the inner gate that leads you to Stradun Street. The ramp and entrance is one of the popular Game of Thrones filming locations in Dubrovnik.

5. The Square of the Loggia

The Square of the Loggia is one of the central meeting locations in the city. Surrounding this white-stoned placa, are some of Dubrovnik’s most famous buildings -- Church of St. Blaise, City Hall, and Sponza Palace. This is one of the best locations in Dubrovnik to start exploring and capturing stunning photos of the distinct architecture of the Old Town.

6. Fort Lovrijenac

Just across the western harbor outside of the Old Town sits one of the city’s most famous fortresses. Fort Lovrijenac was built during the 1000s and was an important defensive point for the city, including helping to thwart the invasion of the Venetians. The fortress is noted for its imposing appearance and towering walls.

Today, the fort doubles as a historical attraction and a theatre. The fortress is often used as a site for plays during the summer and was another Game of Thrones filming location in the city.

7. The Rector’s Palace and Cultural Historic Museum

Once the private chambers and public halls of the rector of Dubrovnik, the Rector’s Palace is now home to the Cultural Historic Museum. This Gothic-Renaissance palace is characterized by artistic archways and a grand staircase. Inside the palace are restored rooms, artwork, and historical pieces dating back to the time of the Republic of Regusa.

8. Sponza Palace

Sponza Palace was built during the 1500s and was originally used as a customs house, but was also a treasury and a mint. The palace is another piece of architectural history in Dubrovnik and is home to the Memorial Room of the Defenders of Dubrovnik.

Additionally, the palace houses countless historical manuscripts. Most of the manuscripts are not open to the public, but some are displayed on the ground floor.

9. Memorial Room of the Defenders of Dubrovnik

Located in Sponza Palace, this memorial room is dedicated to the young men you died from 1991 to 1995 when Serb and Montenegro forces attempted to take control of the city during the Croatian War of Independence. The room is lined with photos of the men who sacrificed their lives for their city.

10. Beaches

Dubrovnik isn’t only about the Old Town. The beaches are also a full day adventure. There are plenty of beaches around the Old Town and within a short walking distance of the center of the city. A few of the best Dubrovnik beaches are Banje, Sveti Jakov, and Sulici. Some of the waters at these beaches can be rocky because of the rough coastline, so always be aware and watch out for the waves.

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Bonus #11: Dubrovnik Cable Car

One of the best ways to see the whole of Dubrovnik is to take the Cable Car up to Mount Srd. This 4-minute ride may be short, but the views from the car are incomparable to anything else. At the top of the mountain is a restaurant you can relax in after your ride and enjoy the sunset over the Adriatic.

NOTE: The Cable Car is currently closed until further notice due to disagreements between the city and the operator. However, if you would still like to reach the top of the mountain, there is a trail that leads to the summit.