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About this guide
Perched on the sparkling coastline of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik, Croatia offers a captivating Mediterranean experience. The ancient city walls, cobblestone streets, and terracotta rooftops transport visitors back in time, while seaside views and nearby islands offer natural beauty. The city’s Balkan influences, artisan markets, and rich culinary scene make every corner an adventure. From sun-soaked beaches to historic landmarks, Dubrovnik is a destination that charms, inspires, and lingers in memory long after the trip is over.
- Best time to travel: July to August (peak season), October to May (off-season), June and September (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
- Currency: Croatian Kuna or kn (HRK)
- Noteworthy: Dubrovnik Carnival (February), Saint Blaise Festival (February), Festivity of Saint Joseph (March), Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July to August)
- Best for: Croatian History Buff, Romantic Getaways, Outdoor Water Adventures, Wellness Retreat
Get Away: Getting To and Around Dubrovnik, Croatia
By Air
Dubrovnik Airport is the main gateway, located about 10 miles from the Old Town. Taxis and shuttle buses are readily available for direct transport to any accommodations. Fortunately, many hotels and guesthouses also offer airport transfers, which can simplify arrivals. For travelers on a budget, local buses are an affordable alternative to reach the city center.
By Car
Take a car rental from the airport or city to drive around the picturesque coastline and historic sites, like the scenic Pelješac Peninsula or nearby Konavle villages. Keep in mind the Old Town is largely pedestrian-only, so plan to park outside the walls with easy access to enchanting streets and historic attractions. Croatia’s roadways are well-marked and easy to navigate with GPS, so renting a car is best for day trips or exploring the surrounding islands via ferries.
By Public Transit
Dubrovnik’s local bus network is reliable and connects most major sites, including Pile Gate, Lapad, and Gruž port. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at kiosks or via mobile apps. The extensive bus network covers key tourist spots and suburbs and visitors can purchase a Dubrovnik Card for unlimited bus rides and discounted entry to attractions. Buses can get crowded during peak tourist season, so travel early if possible. This is a great option for those who want to skip parking and still see key neighborhoods efficiently.
Explore Dubrovnik, Croatia on Foot
Dubrovnik’s charm is its compact size which makes exploring the walkable city fun. Walking along the city walls offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic and red-roofed buildings below. Comfortable shoes are essential, as cobblestones can be uneven. Strolling also allows for easy visits to cafés, shops, and galleries along the way.
Quick facts
Good For
Croatian History Buff
Romantic Getaways
Outdoor Water Adventures
Wellness Retreat
Keep in mind
- Dubrovnik Carnival (February)
- Saint Blaise Festival (February)
- Festivity of Saint Joseph (March)
- Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July to August)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Dubrovnik, Croatia
The Nautika Restaurant in Dubrovnik is open seasonally and emphasizes local sourcing for the freshest flesh, meat, and vegetarian options. Housed in a historic maritime school, the restaurant has garnered global recognition and high praise.
Right in the middle of Old Town, Soul Kitchen in Dubrovnik has a serene atmosphere with a spacious interior. The menu includes beetroot feta pasta, chicken shawarma with orange date couscous, and tofu taco Al Pastor.
From fresh sushi rolls to sizzling wok creations, Bonsai Sushi and Wok uses only the finest ingredients and authentic Asian seasonings. It’s a perfect spot for foodie travelers looking for a bang for their buck and guests looking to try different kinds of meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes.
Bistro Bacchus has a fantastic Mediterranean-inspired menu, perfect for brunch with friends or a casual dinner and wine tasting. It’s also a stop on a local e-bike route which is perfect for a quick ride through town before sitting down to the most amazing ocean views in Dubrovnik.
Marco Polo is where Dalmatian cuisine meets international flavors inspired by Marco Polo's Silk Road adventures. They offer daily specials, a la carte, and seasonal food options that are paired expertly with the finest Croatian wines.
Only minutes from Old Town, Ala Mizerija is a hidden beach bar with laid-back charm and the most picturesque ocean view. The Croatian beers pair well with fresh bites, like anchovy bruschetta and chicken spring rolls.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia
Led by a licensed local expert, The Old Town Walking Tour unveils over 1,400 years of Dubrovnik history. The five-star UNESCO World Heritage site showcases architectural wonders, like Onofrio’s Fountain.
Visitors can experience the Kravice Waterfalls, Mostar, and Pocitelj Day Tour to learn about the local lore. Guests are provided an air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pick-up and drop-off for a stress-free day in Croatia.
Avid fans of the epic fantasy TV show should book a day at the Game of Thrones Tour in Dubrovnik. Travelers can visit filming locations, like Lovrijenac Fort and Pile Gate, and hear fascinating stories from behind-the-scenes antics.
The Old Town Food Tour shares the authentic coastal flavors of the Adriatic Sea with local food and wine tastings. Visitors will wander through historic landmarks with a local guide and explore the culinary heart of the city.
Starting at the historic Amerling fountain, the Dubrovnik Night Bar Tour explores local hotspots on Prijeko Street. The night concludes at the local guide’s favorite bar. Enjoy a complimentary drink and chat with friendly locals about Dubrovnik's rich culture.
The Sunset Cruise Around Dubrovnik By Karaka is the perfect evening activity to sit back, sip some sparkling wine, and capture breathtaking views of the Old City. There’s also ambient music to compliment the beauty of the sea under the starlit Adriatic sky.
This private Mystery In Dubrovnik Escape Game is a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure that blends an escape room with a treasure hunt all around historic Dubrovnik. Guests solve challenging puzzles, find hidden gems and uncover stories from the 16th century.
Accompanied by a licensed guide, the E-Bike Tour with Gourmet Lunch and Wine Tasting takes visitors up the enchanting Konavle countryside to a local farm. Guests visit an old mill, enjoy organic food, and sip local wines before visiting a Franciscan monastery while learning about Dubrovnik’s local history.
