Dubrovnik is without a doubt one of the best preserved fortified cities in the world. I first came here as a child and have now been there seven times. And every time it feels like walking into a living museum, but one where everyday life goes on as usual.
Within the ancient city walls, everything revolves around atmosphere, history and photogenic details. Narrow streets, red roofs, weathered staircases, Game of Thrones locations, hidden restaurants and viewpoints that will take your breath away. I know the city like the back of my hand by now and therefore decided to list my favorite places.
In this article I will take you to the heart of Dubrovnik: the Old Town. You will find my 10 best tips for what to do and see in Dubrovnik Old Town – including personal recommendations, photo spots and practical information.
Are you looking for one? fully catered city trip Looking for a flight, transfer, and hotel trip to Dubrovnik? Check out our partners' current travel offers below.
At Holiday discount the focus is mainly on very competitive prices, where you can often book cheaply without compromising on quality.
At D-trips you often find packages with a clear price-quality ratio, including good hotels and itineraries that focus on convenience and overview.
1. Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik's city walls are among the best preserved in the world. They surround the entire old town and give you the feeling of walking through an open-air museum. The walls date largely from the 13th century and are reinforced with watchtowers, bastions and hidden passages. Walking along the walls will not only show you how impressive this defensive structure is, but will also give you a completely new perspective on the city.
You look out over the orange-red roofs, the cozy maze of streets and the azure blue Adriatic Sea. From Fort Minčeta, the highest point of the wall, you can even see the basketball court in the middle of the old town – a photogenic and almost surreal place.
Photo tip: Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon for the best light and fewer tourists on the wall. Don't forget your zoom lens - the detail is worth it.
Tip:: A ticket to the city walls costs €35 per person. This also gives access to several small museums housed in the towers and fortifications, including the fascinating Kula Gornji Ugao museum in Fort Minčeta. You will discover old cast constructions and the original city history that continues underground. For those who want more historical information; it is also possible to organized walking tours to book.
2. Visit Fort Lovrijenac – the real King's Landing
Just outside the city walls lies Fort Lovrijenac, strategically built on a high rock overlooking the sea. Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognize it as the mighty King's Landing, but even without that knowledge, this fortress is worth a visit. The thick walls, open courtyard and narrow staircases tell the story of centuries-old defense. And the view over the city and coastline is simply fantastic.
Tip: Entrance to Fort Lovrijenac is included in your city walls ticket. Go early or just before closing time, then you can have the fort almost to yourself.
During my last visit I took part in a Game of Thrones Tour. Guides take you along film locations with large screenshots from the series, and it is surprisingly fun to see how creative the makers have been with this place. But even without a tour, the climb up is more than worth it.
Photo tip: For the most beautiful photo of Fort Lovrijenac, you should not be in the fort, but on the city wall. From Fort Bokar you look straight at the castle. Want to capture the fortress and a larger part of Dubrovnik in one shot? Then go to Kula sv. Mary, the highest point of the city wall on the sea side. From here you get a wide view of the city, the coastline and the fortress in all its glory. This is ideal for panoramic photos.
Tip:: Curious about what I shoot with? Then view the display below.
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3. Enjoy the view from Srđ Hill
For the best view of Dubrovnik Old Town and the Adriatic Sea, head to the top of Srđ Hill. From here, you can see the city’s red roofs contrasting sharply with the clear blue water and surrounding islands. It’s without exaggeration one of the best viewpoints in the entire region.
You can reach the top with the funicular, a popular option that will get you to the top in a few minutes. But those who prefer to be active can also use the Mount Srd Hiking Trail follow. This tough walk takes about an hour and rewards you with ever-changing views along the way. At the top lies the Dubrovnik observation point, where you can sit, take photos or have a drink with a view. There is a panoramic terrace and a restaurant, ideal to catch your breath.
Tip:: A return trip with the cable car costs €30 per person. Want to save money and be active? The walk starts here on Google Maps.
Extra tip: Also visit the Homeland War Museum, located in the old fort on the top. From there you have an even wider view over the hills and islands. On a clear day you can see for tens of kilometers, as shown in the photo below.
Tip for the adventurers: near the viewpoint you will find Panorama Zipline Dubrovnik. For €50 you get a wine tasting at sunset and then zipline back to the city. One of the coolest ways to experience Dubrovnik from the air.
Also read: Dubrovnik | 15x exceptionally delicious food + best restaurants & bars
4. Get lost in the photogenic streets of Old Town
Dubrovnik is not only discovered through the well-known sights, but also between the lines; in the narrow streets where daily life takes place. The old city center is full of unexpected corners, weathered stairs, balconies with laundry and brightly colored shutters. It is almost impossible not to take a beautiful photo here.
I like to wander around here without a plan, with just my camera in hand. Every time I discover something new: an unexpected view, a hidden square, a cat on a windowsill or a café where you can just hang around for an hour.
Photo tip: Walk through the side streets of the Stradun early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The light is soft and most day trippers are still out and about or have already left. The higher streets in the northern part of the Old Town also offer unique views.
Are you looking for one? fully catered city trip Looking for a flight, transfer, and hotel trip to Dubrovnik? Check out our partners' current travel offers below.
At Holiday discount the focus is mainly on very competitive prices, where you can often book cheaply without compromising on quality.
At D-trips you often find packages with a clear price-quality ratio, including good hotels and itineraries that focus on convenience and overview.
5. Stroll along the Stradun – the heart of the city
De Stradun is the main street of Dubrovnik, connecting the East and West Gates of the Old Town. This wide, shiny limestone boulevard is the scene of everyday city life – from early coffee drinkers to evening strollers. Everything and everyone comes together here.
Early in the morning it is quiet and almost magical, with a soft glow over the white stones. Later in the day the street fills with strolling tourists, street musicians and the smell of freshly baked burek. The stately facades, fountains and small alleys on either side give the Stradun its characteristic appearance.
Photo tip: For an overview photo of the Stradun, the view from the city wall is fantastic. But do you want the street completely empty in the photo? Then you really have to be there early, before 07.30 am you have the best chance.
Tip: Take a seat on one of the terraces halfway down the street. Perfect for people watching with a coffee or glass of wine in front of you. The prices are a bit higher here, but the view makes up for it.
Also read: Dubrovnik | Practical information and tips for a carefree city trip
6. Admire the Rector's Palace – a palace with a past
In the middle of the old town, on the Luža Square, stands one of the most remarkable buildings in Dubrovnik: the Rector's Palace. During the time of the independent Republic of Ragusa, this was the administrative centre of the city, where the elected rector took up residence – for exactly one month, so that no one could gain too much power.
The palace combines Gothic and Renaissance styles and has now been transformed into a museum. Inside you will find historical rooms, portraits, furniture and utensils that give you an insight into the life of the elite in the 15th and 16th centuries. The atmosphere is tranquil, as if time has stood still.
Photo tip: The facade of the palace is very popular with photographers and content creators. During the day, there are often lines of people posing here. If you want a photo without a crowd, early in the morning (around 07.00:XNUMX am) is your best chance.
7. Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral
De Dubrovnik Cathedral, with its blue-gray dome, towers over the city everywhere. Wherever you are in the Old Town, you will always see it popping up somewhere between the roofs. This baroque cathedral was built on the ruins of earlier churches, the oldest of which dates back to the 6th century.
The current building dates from the 18th century and is still in use. When there is no church service, you can enter for free. Inside you will find a serene space with beautiful light, artwork and an impressive altar.
Photo tip: One of the best views of the cathedral is from the city wall, especially during the golden hour. You can also get a good view of the dome from Luža Square, especially when the sunlight hits the stone facade.
Tip:: Curious about what I shoot with? Then view the display below.
The Fujifilm X-T5 with 16-80 is the ultimate all-round world travel camera† This camera has been declared several times by both the consumer association and Tweakers.net the best system camera you can buy. Even on automatic mode, you suddenly feel like a professional photographer!
- The best tested camera
- Fantastic photos
- 6.2K video
- 5 year warranty
8. Enjoy local flavors on Prijeko Street
If you are looking for good food in Dubrovnik, you should go to the Prijeko Streett are. This charming side street of the Stradun runs through the northern part of the Old Town and is packed with small restaurants and cafes. Within 300 metres you will find dozens of places to have lunch, dinner or just a drink – from local family kitchens to modern kitchens with a twist.
What makes this street special is that you will hardly find any big chains here. Instead, you will taste real hospitality, pure ingredients and recipes that have been passed down for generations. No fast food, but fresh fish, home-made pasta and well-filled snack platters.
Tip:: Order a platter of local Pršut (dried ham), olives and cheese from the region. Pair it with a glass of crisp Pošip, a white wine from Dalmatia. Before you know it, you’ll want to take bottles home with you.
9. Discover the Dominican Monastery and Museum
Hidden between the city walls lies the Dominican Monastery, a quiet place full of history. It was founded in 1225 and together with the adjacent Gothic church it forms an impressive religious complex. Inside you will find a museum with religious art, valuable manuscripts and objects that will take you back to medieval Dubrovnik.
What surprises many visitors is the serene courtyard with colonnade and flowering plants. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and look around in silence.
Tip: The monastery is located on the northeast side of the Old Town, near the Ploče Gate. Admission is modest, and it is rarely crowded.
Photo tip: During a walk on the city wall you have a beautiful view of the monastery complex from above. The contrast between the red roofs and the courtyard makes it a striking whole.
10. Visit St. Blaise's Church – symbol of the city
To the Luža Square, directly opposite the Rector's Palace, stands the Baroque Church of St. Blaise. This ornate church is dedicated to the patron saint of Dubrovnik, who, according to legend, saved the city from a Venetian attack. The church was built in 1715 by Venetian architect Marino Gropelli, on the foundations of an earlier Romanesque church that was badly damaged in a fire.
With its striking façade, staircase and statues, it is a popular place for both locals and visitors. During religious festivals, the church is still in full use and the square around it is filled with atmosphere and music.
Photo tip: From the square you can capture the facade beautifully, especially in the early morning when the light falls on the white stones. It is also worth looking inside when the doors are open. The atmosphere is intimate and authentic.
Essential Information
Best time to travel
The best time to visit Dubrovnik is spring and autumn (April–June and September–October). Temperatures are pleasant, less crowded and accommodation is more affordable. The city is also beautiful in summer, but expect crowded terraces, higher prices and temperatures well above 30 degrees.
Flight tickets to Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is easily accessible with direct flights from the Netherlands, Belgium and just across the border in Germany. Depending on where you live, an alternative airport can save you a lot of time and money.
- Amsterdam (AMS): direct with KLM or EasyJet
- Rotterdam (RTM): direct with Transavia
- Eindhoven (EIN): with Ryanair or Croatia Airlines (sometimes with a transfer)
- Brussels Airport (BRU): direct flights with Brussels Airlines or Croatia Airlines
- Düsseldorf (DUS): direct flights with Eurowings and Lufthansa
- Cologne/Bonn (CGN): direct flights with Eurowings
Tip:: Do you live in the south or east of the Netherlands? Then Düsseldorf and Brussels are often a cheap and practical alternative. Always compare via Skyscanner for the best option.
Accommodations in Old Town
I have stayed in at least ten different accommodations by now, but these three really stuck with me:
- Villa St Vitus
Apartments with an amazing view over the old town. - Apartment Jelena
Nice place with outdoor terrace, right in the heart of Old Town. - Dominic Little Palace
Authentic boutique hotel in a beautiful traditional building.
Book a city trip
Would you rather arrange everything in one go? Then you can also take out a complete city trip books. The largest selection of city trips to Dubrovnik can be found at Price-free. And you can find other good deals via The Holiday Discounter. Ideal if you don't feel like booking everything separately and just want to go.
Closing note
I have been to Dubrovnik seven times now, spread over more than twenty years, and every time it feels like I am coming home to a living history book. The combination of historical atmosphere, intimate streets and the view of the Adriatic Sea continues to fascinate me. This city is perfect for a short city trip, but also fits effortlessly into a longer stay tour of Croatia.
The old city centre is compact enough to explore in a few days, but also versatile enough to surprise you every day. And then we haven't even mentioned the nature and coastline just outside the city. Those places, and how to best discover them, are discussed in other articles.
Are you planning to travel to Croatia? Then also view all our other articles on the Croatia page or create your own route with our tour tips. Would you rather have everything arranged at once? Then check out the options for a complete city trip to Dubrovnik below - so much easier.
Are you looking for one? fully catered city trip Looking for a flight, transfer, and hotel trip to Dubrovnik? Check out our partners' current travel offers below.
At Holiday discount the focus is mainly on very competitive prices, where you can often book cheaply without compromising on quality.
At D-trips you often find packages with a clear price-quality ratio, including good hotels and itineraries that focus on convenience and overview.
PssstBefore you leave, we have a real insider tip for you below. A 25 minute drive from Dubrovnik you will find a hidden beach called Pasjaca Beach. Click on the photo below for more info.
