Heading to Dubrovnik and need help planning your itinerary? You’re in the right place!
Fitting all of the city’s must-sees into just three days can be a tricky task, but don’t worry, I’ve done the hard work for you. After exploring every corner of Dubrovnik (and yes, sweating through those city walls in summer!) I’ve crafted the perfect three-day itinerary to ensure that your time here goes off without a hitch.
From stunning views atop Mt. Srđ and swimming in secret coves to beautiful sunsets and wandering medieval streets that feel like a movie set, this guide covers it all. Plus, I’ve included all of the timing and insider tips you’ll need along the way. Let’s dive in!
Don’t miss out!
My Top Choice
The tour I loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
My personal FAVORITE thing I did in Dubrovnik was this full-day Elaphite Islands cruise! We spent the day exploring three beautiful islands, swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic, enjoying a delicious lunch with unlimited drinks, and soaking up the incredible coastal scenery!
Itinerary Overview
🏰 Day 1: Cable Car, Old Town, City Walls & Sunset Kayaking
Ride the cable car to Mt. Srđ, explore the Old Town with a local guide, walk the city walls, relax at the beach, and end the day kayaking around Dubrovnik’s coastline at sunset.
🌄 Day 2: Zipline Adventure & Game of Thrones Locations
Choose between a Game of Thrones tour or a thrilling zipline adventure, then spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town before ending the day with great food, wine, and gelato.
⛵ Day 3: Elaphite Islands Cruise and Restaurant Panorama
Spend the day cruising to the Elaphite Islands with stops at Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep, then celebrate your final night with a scenic dinner overlooking Dubrovnik followed by cocktails in the Old Town.
*This itinerary was crafted around staying in or near the Old Town area of Dubrovnik.
There are many different areas to stay in Dubrovnik and getting around can be time-consuming, so choosing a centrally located hotel is essential. We’ve created this itinerary based on staying in the Old Town area. Scalini Palace is our favorite hotel in the area because it offers luxury without breaking the bank. Read our blog about Where to Stay in Dubrovnik for more detailed info about hotels and areas.
Day 1
Breakfast – Pekarnica Pile
Pekarnica Pile is a convenient place for breakfast this morning, since it’s just a 2-minute walk from the tour’s meeting point. But it’s also a must-visit in Dubrovnik because I just can’t get enough of their yummy bagels! Or if you want to try a local treat, grab one of their deliciously flaky bureks. This spot opens at 6 am, so you’ll have plenty of time to grab a bite before your tour begins at 9 am.
Morning – Ride the cable car and explore Old Town with a guide
On my first morning in Dubrovnik, I booked this small-group sightseeing tour, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the city.
The tour begins at 9 am with a ride up Mount Srđ on Dubrovnik’s famous cable car. Once at the top, we had about 45 minutes to soak in the incredible views and take photos. On a clear day, you can even see Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro!
Back in the Old Town, our guide, Elvis, led our group of just five people through Dubrovnik’s fascinating history. The small group made it easy to ask questions, and I loved learning that Dubrovnik was once the independent Republic of Ragusa, helped pioneer quarantines, and even has a 15th-century aqueduct that still supplies clean water to the city today. So make sure you bring a reusable water bottle to refill at one of the many historic fountains around Old Town!
The guided portion wraps up around noon, when you’ll receive your ticket to the city walls (or the Dubrovnik Pass if you booked that option). You can use this ticket to walk the city walls whenever you like, but I recommend grabbing lunch first, then exploring the walls afterward once you’re fueled up.
With hundreds of five-star reviews, it’s easy to see why this is one of Dubrovnik’s most popular tours. Having a local guide really brought the Old Town to life, and I learned so much more than I ever would have wandering around on my own!
Lunch – Soul Kitchen
Soul Kitchen is a lively, welcoming lunch spot just a 4-minute walk from where this morning’s tour ends. It’s so good that we always end up eating here at least twice every time we’re in Dubrovnik! This place offers fun fusion cuisine, with everything from pear salad to cauliflower tempura, and I highly recommend the “Kiss My Cheeks” shawarma wrap. The service here is absolutely wonderful, and if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, I can definitely vouch for their signature drink!
Early Afternoon – Walk the City Walls
After lunch, it’s time for one of Dubrovnik’s most iconic experiences—walking the City Walls! Stretching nearly 2 km (1.2 miles) around the Old Town, this self-guided walk offers incredible views of the terracotta rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and Fort Lovrijenac. Trust me, you’ll want plenty of space on your camera roll!
The walk took me about 2 hours, but that included lots of photo stops and a break for a drink at one of the cafés along the walls. We grabbed a table at the first café after Fort Lovrijenac, where we enjoyed a cold drink in the shade while watching people cliff jump into the sea below at Buža Bar.
Just keep in mind that there are quite a few steep steps, very little shade, and it can get hot, so bring a water bottle and wear sunscreen. If you need a break, there are drink kiosks and cafés along the route, and if you don’t feel like completing the full loop, there’s an exit about halfway around (which is perfect because I thought the first half had the best views anyway!).
One last tip: Don’t throw away your City Walls ticket! It’s valid for entry to Fort Lovrijenac within 24 hours, which is perfect since you’ll be visiting the fort if you decide to go on tomorrow morning’s Game of Thrones tour. It’s always nice to save some extra cash!
Afternoon – Relax on the beach
The start time for your next activity (I’ll keep it a surprise for now!) varies depending on the time of year, with departures ranging from around 3:30 pm to 6 pm. If you have an earlier departure, I’d head straight there after walking the City Walls. But if you’ve booked one of the later departures, I highly recommend spending a couple of hours relaxing at the beach—you’ve definitely earned it!
Luckily, there are several great beaches within walking distance of the Old Town. Banje Beach is the most convenient, just a 10-minute walk away. It’s a beautiful pebble beach with crystal-clear water, although it can get busy. Bring a towel to relax for free, or rent a sunbed from Banje Beach Club. You can also grab drinks or snacks from the beachfront restaurant to enjoy on the beach.
If you’d rather escape the crowds, Plaža Sveti Jakov is a quieter, more local beach about a 25-minute walk (or 6-minute taxi ride) from the Old Town. There’s a beach bar where you can rent parasols, sunbeds, and even SUP boards.
For a quick swim, head to Buža Beach, tucked just outside the city walls. It’s not a traditional beach, but a rocky cliffside where people relax on towels and jump into the Adriatic. There’s also a bar here, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while watching the brave cliff jumpers take the plunge!
Evening – Go kayaking at sunset
There’s no better way to end your first day in Dubrovnik than with this sunset sea kayaking tour! The exact departure time changes throughout the year to line up with sunset (around 6 pm in summer, 4:30–5 pm in spring, and 3:30 pm in fall), but no matter when you go, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early so you have time to get your gear organized. You’ll be given a waterproof bucket for your phone, a large dry bag for clothes and towels, and a life jacket. Just make sure to wear your swimsuit because you will get wet! And don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before—our guide, Ramon, gave a great introduction, and the double kayaks made it easy for beginners.
We paddled past Fort Lovrijenac and Dubrovnik’s towering city walls before stopping at Cave Beach for about 20 minutes to swim and take photos. Then we continued toward Lokrum Island, where Ramon shared fascinating stories about the island and Dubrovnik’s history. But paddling back as the sun set behind the city walls was easily the highlight for me!
The kayaking itself lasts about 2 hours, but once you’re back on shore, the fun isn’t over. The guides set out bottles of local Croatian wine on the beach, and everyone hangs around chatting as the sun dips below the horizon. After doing it, it’s easy to see why this tour has hundreds of rave reviews!
Dinner – Burger House Republic
After an evening of kayaking, you’ll probably be ready for an easy, laid-back dinner. Since the tour can finish at slightly different times depending on the season (and you may want to freshen up first), I recommend keeping things casual tonight.
Burger House Republic was one of my favorite meals in Dubrovnik. Tucked away in the Old Town, this trendy little burger joint has a relaxed atmosphere and seriously delicious burgers. I ordered the Goat Cheese Burger, and it was easily one of the best burgers I’ve had while traveling. If you’re feeling adventurous, they also serve an Octopus Burger that’s surprisingly popular! It’s the perfect spot to refuel after an active day without committing to a long, sit-down dinner.
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Day 2
Breakfast – Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe
Start your second day in Dubrovnik with breakfast at Dubravka 1836, one of the best spots just outside the Old Town gates. Set right by Pile Gate, this place has a beautiful terrace overlooking the sea and Lovrijenac Fortress, making it extremely popular—so I highly recommend making a reservation and asking for a front row seat along the wall.
The menu is a mix of hearty and lighter options, from eggs and fresh pastries to smoothie bowls and strong coffee (which you’ll definitely want before adventure!). I also like that it opens right at 8 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxed breakfast without feeling rushed!
Morning – Choose your own adventure!
This morning, it’s time to pick between two of my favorite experiences in Dubrovnik! If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, go with this GOT walking tour through the Old Town. But if you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping, this panorama zipline offers some of the best views of Dubrovnik. You really can’t go wrong with either, but to help you decide, I’ve shared more details about each option below!
Option 1: See Game of Thrones Filming Locations
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you can’t miss this GOT walking tour! I recommend booking the 9:30 am departure, and the meeting point is conveniently just a 3-minute walk from breakfast, making for an easy start to the day.
Our guide, Eddie, had a hilarious dry sense of humor and shared tons of behind-the-scenes stories about the filming process. Throughout the tour, he’d pull out still images from the show so you could compare them to the real-life locations—it was so cool seeing just how little movie magic was needed!
One of the highlights was climbing up to Fort Lovrijenac, which doubled as the Red Keep. Just remember that entry isn’t included, so hang on to your City Walls ticket from yesterday since it’s valid for free admission within 24 hours. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay €15 to enter.
I don’t want to spoil all of the fascinating stories you’ll hear along the way, but one of my favorites was learning that residents living beside the famous Walk of Shame staircase were reportedly paid to keep their windows closed for an entire week while the scene was being filmed!
This tour involves quite a bit of walking and plenty of stairs, so a moderate level of mobility is helpful. If you have time, I also highly recommend upgrading to the 3-hour tour, which includes a visit to Lokrum Island rather than the 2-hour Old Town route. It’s well worth it!
Option 2: Soar Above Dubrovnik on a Zipline Adventure
If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your Dubrovnik itinerary, this panorama zipline tour is an easy choice! I recommend booking the 10 am departure, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy breakfast before heading to the meeting point.
It’s about a 10 to 15-minute walk from breakfast, but be warned—it’s mostly uphill with lots of stairs. If you’d rather save your energy, I’d just grab an Uber instead. From there, a van takes you up Mount Srđ, where the fun begins!
I’ll admit, I was a little nervous when I found out we had to control our own braking on the zipline! But the guides did such a thorough safety briefing—including a practice run—that I felt completely confident. I actually ended up loving being able to control my own speed, slowing down to soak in the views or speeding up for the perfect dose of adrenaline.
There are two different ziplines, and you get to ride each one twice, for a total of four rides. The views over Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding coastline are incredible. And the guides made the experience even better, sharing local tips, pointing out landmarks, and taking tons of photos for us.
Whether it’s your first time ziplining or you’re already a pro, I honestly can’t recommend this experience enough. It delivers the perfect combination of breathtaking scenery and just the right dose of adrenaline!
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Lunch – Gradska kavana Arsenal Restaurant
By now, you’ve definitely earned a relaxing lunch! I highly recommend Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant, located right on Dubrovnik’s picturesque harbor in the heart of the Old Town. The waterfront setting is absolutely beautiful and makes it one of my favorite lunch spots in the city.
This restaurant is very popular, especially during peak season, so I’d recommend making a reservation for around 1:30 pm, which works well with either morning activity. When booking, request a table along the harbor wall if possible—the views are well worth it!
I ordered the steak sandwich, and it was so good. Pair it with a cold drink, soak in the harbor views, and enjoy a well-deserved break before another afternoon of exploring.
Afternoon – Explore more of the Old Town
By now you’ve probably fallen in love with Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and this afternoon is all about exploring it on a deeper level. From hidden alleyways and local shops to fascinating museums and historic churches, here are a few of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon:
Go shopping – The Old Town is packed with boutique shops selling everything from handmade jewelry and Croatian wines to lavender products, artwork, and locally made souvenirs. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s a fun way to spend an hour or two.
Visit a museum (or two!) – If you’re interested in Dubrovnik’s history, there are several great museums to choose from. My favorites are the Cultural History Museum inside Rector’s Palace, War Photo Limited for its powerful photography exhibits, and the Maritime Museum, which explores Dubrovnik’s rich seafaring history.
Wander the hidden side streets – While Stradun (main street) is beautiful, don’t be afraid to wander the quieter streets branching off the main thoroughfare. Along the way, stop for a coffee at Cogito Coffee or treat yourself to one of Gianni’s famous artisan desserts before continuing your stroll.
Step inside Dubrovnik’s historic churches – Dubrovnik’s beautiful Church of St. Blaise and Church of St. Ignatius are free to visit and well worth stepping inside. Their peaceful interiors, impressive architecture, and centuries of history offer a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s fascinating past.
Happy Hour – D’vino Wine Bar
After a busy afternoon exploring the Old Town, unwind with a drink at D’vino Wine Bar, a cozy little spot tucked away on a charming side street in the heart of the Old Town. Whether you’re in the mood for a single glass or want to sample a variety of local wines, this is one of the best places in Dubrovnik to do it.
I highly recommend ordering one of their Croatian wine flights, which lets you try several regional wines and discover just how good Croatian wine really is. Grab a table outside if you can and soak up the atmosphere before dinner.
Dinner – Dalmatino Dubrovnik
After happy hour, it’s just a short walk around the corner to Dalmatino Dubrovnik, one of my favorite restaurants in the Old Town. It’s incredibly popular for good reason, with a welcoming atmosphere and a menu full of delicious Croatian and Mediterranean dishes.
I ordered the salmon, and it was absolutely delicious, and Jesse had the shrimp and pistachio pasta, which was equally as amazing. This place fills up quickly, so be sure to make a reservation in advance and request a table on the terrace—you’ll thank me later!
Evening – Grab dessert!
No trip to Dubrovnik is complete without a stop at Gelateria Dubrovnik, a locally owned favorite that’s been serving homemade gelato on Stradun since 1968. At just €3 per scoop, it’s one of the tastiest (and most affordable!) treats in the Old Town. If you’re not sure what to order, go for the bitter orange flavor—a traditional Dubrovnik favorite that’s unique to the region.
Once you’ve got your gelato, take your time wandering through the Old Town. Evening is my favorite time to explore, when the historic streets are beautifully lit, the crowds have thinned, and the whole city feels a little more magical.
Day 3
Breakfast – Stradoon Restaurant
Start your final day with breakfast at Stradoon Restaurant, conveniently located right on Stradun in the heart of the Old Town. Since today’s adventure starts bright and early, I recommend arriving right when they open at 7 am so you can enjoy a relaxing breakfast on the patio before your tour pickup.
If you’re not sure what to order, I highly recommend the Eggs Royale. They were absolutely delicious and the perfect fuel for the upcoming full-day adventure.
Full-day – Elaphite Islands cruise
One of the best things about visiting Dubrovnik is getting out on the Adriatic Sea, and this full-day cruise to the Elaphite Islands is the perfect way to do it. The tour officially starts at 9 am, but if you’ve arranged hotel pickup, expect to be collected from the Old Town around 8:15–8:30 am (just be sure to confirm your pickup time with the tour operator in advance).
Our first stop was Lopud, and I instantly fell in love with it. We wandered through the sleepy little harbor before heading to Šunj Beach, where I spent the next couple of hours swimming in the turquoise water and soaking up the sunshine. It honestly felt like something straight out of a postcard!
Back on the boat, we cruised over to Šipan, the largest of the Elaphite Islands. After exploring its quiet streets and stone villages, we enjoyed a freshly prepared lunch onboard. I also have to mention that unlimited drinks are included, which definitely made the relaxing cruise between islands even better!
Our final stop was Koločep, where we had more time to swim and enjoy the crystal-clear Adriatic before making the scenic journey back to Dubrovnik. By the end of the day, I was sun-kissed, completely relaxed, and already wishing I could do it all over again. No wonder it has so many glowing reviews!
Dinner – Restaurant Panorama
After returning to Dubrovnik around 5 pm, head back to your accommodation to freshen up before celebrating your final night with dinner at Panorama Restaurant. Perched on the top of Mt. Srđ, it boasts some of the most spectacular views in Dubrovnik, overlooking the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
The food and service were both excellent, but if you ask me, you’re really paying for that unforgettable setting and view. To get here, you can either take the Dubrovnik Cable Car back up the mountain (it runs until midnight during the peak summer months) or grab an Uber.
If you’d rather spend your last evening in the Old Town, I also highly recommend Taj Mahal Old Town. Despite the name, it serves incredible traditional Bosnian and Balkan cuisine and is Michelin Recommended. We ordered the Hadžijski Ćevap, and it was honestly one of my favorite meals of the trip.
Whichever restaurant you choose, I highly recommend making a reservation in advance, as both are extremely popular—especially during the summer months!
Evening – Drinks in Old Town
End your Dubrovnik adventure with one last drink in the heart of the Old Town. For cocktails, I highly recommend The Bar. It has a stylish, upscale atmosphere with both indoor seating and a lovely outdoor patio, plus an extensive cocktail menu that’s almost impossible to choose from. At around €16 per cocktail, it’s definitely a bit of a splurge, but I thought it was well worth it for a special final night.
If you’re not sure what to order, go for the Life of Pi—it was my favorite cocktail we tried! Cheers to an unforgettable few days in Dubrovnik!
Related Read: For more helpful tips for your trip, check out our guide on some of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, complete with iconic sights, hidden gems, and local insights to make the most of your visit!
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Now that you’ve got your Dubrovnik itinerary all sorted, you just need to find a great place to stay! From luxurious hotels overlooking the sea to cozy boutique stays and budget-friendly options, Dubrovnik offers something for every traveler.
So to help you plan the perfect trip, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Dubrovnik, catering to a range of budgets and travel styles!
Luxury – $$$
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, combining historic elegance with modern comforts just steps from Pile Gate. Many of the rooms offer fantastic views over Fort Lovrijenac, while the indoor pool, spa, and excellent restaurant make it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. With the Old Town less than a five-minute walk away, it’s a fantastic choice if you want to splurge without sacrificing convenience.
Prices range depending on the season, but usually start around €170 in the slow winter season and €500 during the busy summer season. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Scalini Palace is a fantastic mid-range choice if you want to stay right in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century manor, it blends historic charm with bright, modern suites that include handy extras like kitchenettes. Step outside and you’ll be just moments from the city’s top sights, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal base for soaking up Dubrovnik’s unique atmosphere.
Prices start at around €100 per night during the low season and €300 per night during the high season. You can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Eddie’s Sea View Rooms Old Town is a great budget-friendly option just outside Pile Gate, putting you within a few minutes’ walk of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many offer beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea and Fort Lovrijenac. With its unbeatable location and affordable rates, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to stay close to all the action without overspending!
Rooms start as low as €80 per night, and you can visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Dubrovnik’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels in Dubrovnik, have a look at our detailed Where to Stay guide here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
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Thanks for reading!
Three days was the perfect amount of time to soak up Dubrovnik’s magic—from sunrise at Mt. Srđ to swimming in secret coves and exploring medieval streets. This itinerary blends the city’s biggest highlights with off-the-beaten-path gems and plenty of time to relax and explore at your own pace.
Before you zip up your suitcase, don’t forget to read our other Europe travel blogs! Or check out some of our favorites below. We’ve explored cities near and far and love sharing tips, stories, and must-do experiences to help fellow travelers plan their next unforgettable adventure. Happy travels!
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Britt is a Canadian-born adventurer who has spent years discovering the world, from backpacking through Europe and Southeast Asia to traveling across Central America and the South Pacific. Now based in New Zealand, she loves sharing her firsthand tips, unforgettable experiences, and inspiring itineraries to help others plan trips that balance adventure, culture, and relaxation!
