15 BEST Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik and wondering what to do? You’ve come to the right place!

Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a city that truly has it all – rich history, stunning coastal views, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re strolling through its UNESCO-listed Old Town, sailing the sparkling Adriatic, or indulging in incredible food and wine, Dubrovnik never disappoints.

Having visited Dubrovnik multiple times, I’ve explored the city’s top sights and hidden gems. So to help you make the most of your trip, I’ve rounded up the 15 absolute best things to do in Dubrovnik to make your trip memorable.

Dubrovnik at a Glance

Before you start planning your Dubrovnik trip, there are a few things I think every first-time visitor should know. These quick tips will help you avoid the crowds, save time, and make the most of your trip!

It’s incredibly easy to explore: Although Dubrovnik’s towering city walls make it look huge from afar, the Old Town is actually surprisingly compact. You can walk across from Pile Gate to Ploče Gate in about 10 minutes, and most of the top attractions are within easy walking distance. The Old Town is completely pedestrianized, while Ubers, local buses, and airport shuttles make it easy to get everywhere else. Add in the fact that English is spoken almost everywhere and Dubrovnik is incredibly safe, and it’s one of the easiest destinations in Europe to navigate!

It can get VERY busy: Dubrovnik is one of the Mediterranean’s busiest cruise ports, and on days when multiple ships are in town (sometimes upwards of 4!), the Old Town can feel unbelievably crowded from around 10 am to 4 pm. Before your trip, check the cruise ship schedule and, if you notice multiple ships arriving on the same day, plan something outside of Old Town for the day like a boat tour, beach day, or day trip. Then return to the Old Town to explore in the morning or evening when the crowds have thinned out. Trust me—it makes a huge difference!

Make reservations in advance: Remember how I said Dubrovnik gets busy? Well, if you don’t want to miss out on the best restaurants and activities, I highly recommend making reservations and booking tours ahead of time. This isn’t the kind of destination where you can just hope for a last-minute table, especially during the busy summer months. If you don’t plan ahead, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out!

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Dubrovnik

Three days is a great amount of time for your first visit to Dubrovnik! It gives you enough time to explore the Old Town and see the city from the water, which is a must when you’re in a coastal city like this. And don’t worry, you’ll also be able to fit in a healthy dose of beach time and Game of Thrones trivia, too. Here’s how I spent three days getting to know Dubrovnik:

Day 1: Start with a sightseeing tour that combines the cable car, Old Town, and the city walls. It’s the best way to get your bearings and see Dubrovnik from every angle! Afterward, cool off at Banje Beach or Sveti Jakov Beach, then end the day kayaking along the coast at sunset.

Day 2: Choose between a Game of Thrones walking tour and an exciting zipline experience on Mount Srđ. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring more of the Old Town, before enjoying dinner and some Croatian wine, followed up by Dubrovnik’s famous bitter orange gelato.

Day 3: Escape the city on a full-day cruise around the Elaphite Islands. You’ll visit Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep, with plenty of time for swimming and exploring, plus lunch and drinks onboard! Then, finish your trip with dinner overlooking Dubrovnik, followed by cocktails in the Old Town.

For even more detail, check out my full 3-day Dubrovnik itinerary!

Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

1. Explore the iconic Blue Cave on a boat tour

The Blue Cave is one of Dubrovnik’s most famous natural attractions, and this small-group tour is one of the best ways to experience it. The tour takes you there at quieter times of day, which gives you a much better chance of enjoying the glowing blue water without lots of other boats and swimmers around!

The tour begins with a stop at Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, one of the few sandy beaches near Dubrovnik. It’s the perfect place to swim in the gorgeous Adriatic waters or just chill out on the soft sand for a bit before heading to the caves.

Next, you’ll make your way to the Blue Cave, where you’ll be given snorkeling gear so you can jump straight into the crystal-clear water and swim inside. You’ll also visit several smaller sea caves around Koločep Island, many of which are only accessible by boat, making this a fantastic way to explore parts of the coastline you wouldn’t otherwise get to see.

With snorkeling equipment, drinks (including alcoholic options), and a friendly local crew all included, this tour has everything you need for a brilliant half-day on the water. It’s easy to see why it’s one of Dubrovnik’s highest-rated boat trips with over 11,000 5-star reviews!

2. Ride the Cable Car and explore the Old Town with a local guide

I did this small-group sightseeing tour on my first morning in Dubrovnik, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the city! 

Things kicked off with a ride up Mount Srđ on Dubrovnik’s famous cable car, where I had about 45 minutes to soak in the incredible views and take photos. On a clear day, you can even see Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro!

Back in the Old Town, my 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 learned so much. Did you know that Dubrovnik was once the independent Republic of Ragusa, and that it helped pioneer quarantines? In fact, it even has a 15th-century aqueduct that still supplies clean water to the city today, which is why you’re able to drink from the many historic fountains around the 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 it to walk the walls whenever you like, so there’s no need to do them straight away. I recommend heading up either first thing in the morning when they open at 8 am, or later in the afternoon or evening, when it’s cooler and the crowds have started to thin out. The full circuit takes you around almost 2 kilometers of walls, and there’s even a café along the route where you can stop for a coffee or cocktail!

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!

3. See Game of Thrones filming locations

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this walking tour is one of the most fun ways to explore Dubrovnik. As you probably already know, the city doubled as King’s Landing for the show, and your guide will take you to some of the series’ most recognizable filming locations and share behind-the-scenes stories.

Our guide, Eddie, had a brilliantly dry sense of humor and brought along stills from the series so we could compare each scene with the real-life location. I was surprised to see how much of Dubrovnik appeared on screen just like in real life, with barely any movie magic at all!

One of the biggest highlights is Fort Lovrijenac, which stood in for the Red Keep. Entry isn’t included in the tour price, but you can visit for free using your City Walls ticket as long as it’s still within the 24-hour validity period. Otherwise, admission costs €15.

You’ll also stop at the famous Walk of Shame staircase and hear some interesting stories about what filming was like for the people who lived nearby. I won’t spoil them all, but apparently residents beside the steps were paid to keep their windows shut for an entire week!

The route involves quite a lot of walking and stairs, so it’s best suited to anyone with a reasonable level of mobility. I’d also recommend choosing the longer three-hour option if you have time, as it includes a trip to Lokrum Island as well as the Old Town locations.

4. Relax at Banje Beach

Great news – you don’t need to travel far from the Old Town for a beach day in Dubrovnik! In fact, Banje Beach is just a 10-minute walk away from the historic center. It’s a beautiful beach with clear blue water and fantastic views back toward Dubrovnik’s city walls.

You can bring a towel and find a spot on the beach for free, or rent a sunbed from Banje Beach Club if you want to be a little more comfortable. There’s also a beachfront restaurant where you can grab drinks and snacks to enjoy by the water, making this an ideal place to spend a relaxed afternoon in the sunshine.

However, Banje Beach does get pretty busy during summer, so if you’re after something a bit quieter, you could always escape to Plaža Sveti Jakov instead. This is a more local beach about a 25-minute walk (or 6-minute taxi ride) from the Old Town, and you can even rent SUP boards here!

5. Take a cruise to the gorgeous Elaphite Islands

This full-day cruise to the Elaphite Islands is one of the best ways to escape Dubrovnik’s crowds and see more of the coastline. The Elaphite Islands are a small group of laid-back islands just off Dubrovnik’s coast, known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water. They’re the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle! And this particular tour visits Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep, giving you a mix of beaches and small island towns, plus plenty of dreamy swim stops along the way. 

Lopud is usually the biggest highlight, thanks to Šunj Beach. Unlike many of the pebble beaches around Dubrovnik, Šunj has soft sand and a gently sloping seabed! Plus, there are also beach bars and restaurants nearby, so you can grab a drink and relax in the sun.

You’ll also stop on Šipan, which is the largest of the Elaphite Islands. Here, you’ll have time to wander through the quiet villages and olive groves before heading back onboard for lunch. There are usually fish and vegetarian options available, but more importantly, the drinks are unlimited – and yes, that includes wine! 

The final stop is Koločep, where you’ll have time to swim in the deep blue water and admire the sandy coves before cruising back to Dubrovnik. I think that this tour is such an amazing way to escape the crowds in the Old Town for a bit and immerse yourself in Croatia’s stunning natural beauty. But don’t just take my word for it, because you can read 9,700+ 5-star reviews right here!

Related Read: If you need more help planning your trip, check out our 3-day Dubrovnik guide to make the most of your time!

6. Go sea kayaking at sunset

A sunset sea kayaking tour was one of my favorite ways to experience Dubrovnik from a completely different angle. I loved paddling alongside the city walls, passing Fort Lovrijenac, and enjoying golden hour and sunset from out on the water.

And great news! The tour is beginner-friendly, so you don’t need any previous kayaking experience. Our guide, Ramon, gave everyone a clear introduction before we set off, and the double kayaks made the paddling feel much more manageable. You’ll also be given a waterproof bucket for your phone and a larger dry bag for your clothes and towels, although I’d still recommend wearing your swimsuit because you will definitely get wet!

Along the way, we stopped at Cave Beach for a swim and photos before continuing toward Lokrum Island. Ramon shared lots of fascinating stories about the island and Dubrovnik’s history, but the real highlight was paddling back toward the city as the sun disappeared behind the walls.

The kayaking lasts for around two hours, followed by local Croatian wine on the beach – talk about a perfect way to end the day! Everyone from our group stayed to chat as the sun went down, which was such a lovely way to finish up this fun adventure. I honestly can’t recommend this tour enough!

7. Enjoy a drink at Dubrovnik’s cliffside bars

For one of the coolest drinking spots in Dubrovnik, head through the Old Town walls to Buža Bar or Bard Bar. And when I say that these are hole-in-the-wall bars, I mean that literally! They’re both built right onto the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic, so you can grab a cold beer and watch people leap into the sea below!

The whole concept is pretty simple, so don’t turn up expecting fancy cocktails. You’re really here for the setting. Bring a towel and find a spot on the rocks, then spend a lazy afternoon sunbathing and watching the cliff jumpers. And if you feel brave enough, you can even join them!

But no worries if, like me, you want to swim but don’t fancy launching yourself off of a cliff. There are some easier access points where you can just slip into the water for a swim without having to jump.

8. Visit the medieval town of Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia

A full day tour to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls is one of the best ways to see a completely different side of the region while you’re staying in Dubrovnik. It also saves you the hassle of arranging transport and navigating the border crossing yourself, which makes the whole day feel SO much more straightforward.

Mostar is best known for Stari Most, its famous Ottoman-era bridge, but the city is worth much more than a quick photo stop! You’ll have time to wander through the old town and browse the small shops before learning more about Mostar’s complex history. One of the most fascinating parts is hearing how the bridge was destroyed during the war and later rebuilt.

Afterward, the tour continues to Kravice Waterfalls, which offers a complete change of pace. The falls stretch across a wide horseshoe-shaped cliff and tumble into bright green pools below. Depending on the season, you may be able to swim, or you can just relax and enjoy the scenery, which sounds pretty good to me!

I like this tour because there’s a maximum group size of eight people, so it’s so much more personal than a large coach trip. Having a knowledgeable guide also helps put everything into context, especially in Mostar, where so much of the city’s recent history is still visible. If you want to explore beyond Croatia and combine one of the region’s most interesting cities with a beautiful natural attraction, I think that this is an excellent day trip.

9. Explore Dubrovnik’s Best Museums

If you need a break from the sun or simply want to learn more about Dubrovnik’s fascinating past, there are some fantastic museums dotted around the city. I had a lot of fun checking them out on my trip, and here are the ones I most recommend visiting:

• Rector’s Palace (Cultural History Museum) – This was one of my favorite museums in Dubrovnik! Once the seat of government for the Republic of Ragusa, its beautifully preserved rooms are now packed with artwork and historical artifacts that really help bring the city’s history to life.

• War Photo Limited – Another of my top picks, this powerful photography gallery showcases images from conflicts around the world, including the Croatian War of Independence. 

• Maritime Museum – Housed inside the impressive St. John’s Fortress, this museum explores Dubrovnik’s long seafaring history. I loved learning how such a small city became one of the Mediterranean’s most important trading powers!

• Memorial Room of the Fallen Dubrovnik Defenders – This small but moving museum is dedicated to those who lost their lives defending Dubrovnik during the Croatian War of Independence. It’s just inside the entrance to the Sponza Palace, and entry is free, so it’s well worth stopping in as you explore the Old Town.

10. See the city on an electric tuk tuk 

An electric tuk tuk tour is a brilliant way to see more of Dubrovnik without spending hours walking up hills and climbing stairs. It’s especially handy if you’re short on time or visiting with someone who has limited mobility, but I also like it because it allows you to explore beyond the Old Town without hiring a car.

The tour takes you to viewpoints and landmarks that are harder to reach on foot, starting with the Franjo Tuđman Bridge. From here, you get a completely different perspective of Dubrovnik’s harbor and the mountains behind the city, which is a nice contrast to the typical Old Town views (not that you could ever get tired of those!).

You’ll also head up Mount Srđ for sweeping views over Dubrovnik, the Adriatic, and the nearby islands. This is one of the city’s best photo stops, and the tuk tuk makes getting there so much easier than tackling the climb yourself.

Because the vehicles are electric and the groups are small, the experience feels much quieter and more personal than a large bus tour. Your guide can also share stories about Dubrovnik’s history and point out places you might otherwise drive straight past.

This is a great option for first-time visitors who want a quick overview of the city, but it also suits repeat visitors looking to discover a few lesser-known spots. It’s a fun, scenic, and very easy way to fit more into your day!

11. Get the best views (and a thrill) on a zipline

If you’re looking for a little adrenaline in Dubrovnik, this zipline tour is such a fun way to see the city from a completely different perspective. I did this on my most recent trip, and between the incredible views and the thrill of flying over Mount Srđ, it ended up being one of my favorite experiences!

The adventure starts with a drive up Mount Srđ, where the views over Dubrovnik’s red rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and surrounding coastline are unreal. But trust me, they’re even better once you’re soaring through the air!

I’ll admit, I was a little intimidated when the guides told us we’d be responsible for controlling our own speed and braking. Luckily, they give you a thorough safety briefing followed by a practice run on a training zipline. After getting the hang of it, my nerves disappeared—and I actually ended up loving having control over my own speed!

There are two main ziplines, and you get to ride each one twice, for four rides in total. I loved being able to slow down and take in the views on one run, then pick up the pace for a little extra adrenaline on the next.

The guides were fantastic too, sharing local tips and history between rides and taking plenty of photos for us along the way. Whether you’re an experienced zipliner or trying it for the first time, I think you’ll have an absolute blast. And with so many glowing reviews, I’m clearly not the only one who loved it!

12. Taste your way through Dubrovnik 

If you love trying local food when you travel, I think this walking and tasting tour is one of the best ways to spend an evening in Dubrovnik! It combines plenty of food and wine with a guided walk through the Old Town, so you get to learn more about the city while also discovering places you probably wouldn’t find by yourself.

One reason I love this tour so much is that it visits four family-owned restaurants, so you’re supporting local businesses and avoiding the tourist traps. Throughout the course of the tour, you’ll enjoy enough food to amount to a three-course meal, but via a ton of different tastings instead. Arrive hungry, and expect lots of variety!

Each stop also includes a Croatian wine chosen to complement the food! As a wine lover, this is definitely something I appreciate, and it’s also a good way to learn about Croatian wine if you’re new to it. It’s very different from your typical supermarket wine selection back home, so having someone talk you through the local grapes and explain why each wine has been paired with the food makes the experience much more interesting!

Along the way, you’ll also pass some of the Old Town’s main landmarks and hear stories about Dubrovnik’s history and food culture. The small group size keeps the experience personal and gives you more chances to chat with the guide. It’s such a fun introduction to Dubrovnik, and a great way to meet new people and bond over delicious food.

13. Take in the views from Fort Lovrijenac

Fort Lovrijenac sits just outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls and is well worth the short climb for the views alone. From the top, you get an amazing perspective over the city walls and the Adriatic coastline, so make sure you bring your camera!

Game of Thrones fans will probably recognize it as a major filming location, and it’s also included on the walking tour I mentioned earlier. But even if you’ve never watched the series, I still think it’s absolutely worth visiting because the views are just spectacular.

Entry costs €15 per adult, but it’s included with your city walls ticket as long as you visit within 24 hours. So definitely keep hold of your ticket and make the most of it!

14. Take a day trip to Montenegro

If you want to visit Montenegro while you’re in Dubrovnik but don’t have time for an overnight stay, I think this private day trip is a really good option. You can see several of the country’s main highlights in one day, and because it’s a private tour, the itinerary feels much more flexible than a large group excursion.

The first stop is usually Perast, a small town on the Bay of Kotor with stone buildings, waterfront cafés, and beautiful views across the bay. From here, you can take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a little church just offshore. I’d definitely recommend adding the boat trip, as it gives you an even better view of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

You’ll then continue to Kotor, which is known for its medieval Old Town and dramatic setting beneath the mountains. There’s time to explore the narrow streets, wander through the squares, and learn more about the city from your guide.

You may also have the option to visit Budva, which I think is worth adding if time allows. It has another lovely walled Old Town, but the atmosphere feels livelier and more coastal than Kotor. Just don’t wait too long to book this tour, as it tends to sell out!

15. Try Dubrovnik’s Famous Gelato

You can’t visit Dubrovnik without stopping for gelato at least once, and Gelateria Dubrovnik is one of the best places to do it. This locally owned spot has been serving homemade gelato on Stradun since 1968, so it’s a bit of an Old Town institution.

There are plenty of flavors to choose from, but I’d definitely recommend trying the bitter orange. Dubrovnik is known for its bitter oranges, and the flavor is sweet, citrusy, and just a little tart. It also feels much more local than ordering your usual chocolate or pistachio (although there’s nothing wrong with that either)!

At around €3 per scoop, it’s also one of the more affordable treats you can pick up while exploring the Old Town. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably find yourself coming back here quite a few times during your trip!

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!

Thanks for reading!

I loved reliving our trip to Dubrovnik with this guide! I hope you found it helpful as you narrow down what you want to do in this gem of a city. It’s an incredible place to explore!

If your travels are taking you to other countries, have a look through our Europe blogs for more inspiration. We have tons of tips and ideas on what to do in so many different destinations. Here are a few related reads to get you started:

Where to Stay in Split, Croatia: 5 Areas & Hotels

15 Best Things to do in Budapest, Hungary

Where to Stay in Zagreb, Croatia: 5 Areas & Hotels