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Planning a trip to Dubrovnik? 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 sunrise 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 On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Dubrovnik was this Old Town walking tour. Between the stunning views from Mt. Srd and exploring historic landmarks, it was the perfect way to see the city’s beauty, culture, and charm!
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 – Explore the Old City with a guide and ride the cable car
When I visited Dubrovnik for the first time, I did this half-day city sightseeing tour, and it was the best way to experience the city from every angle—literally! Book this tour for 9 am and you’ll finish up at about 1:30 pm, just in time for lunch!
The tour kicks off with a ride up Mount Srđ on the iconic cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the city. From the top, you get a panoramic perspective of the Old Town’s terracotta rooftops, the glistening Adriatic Sea, and the nearby islands. It’s incredible!
After soaking in the views (and snapping a hundred photos), we headed back down to explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town on foot. Our local guide, Sara, was so knowledgeable and full of fun facts about the city’s history. We loved listening to all of her stories as we visited iconic landmarks like Rector’s Palace and Onofrio’s Fountain.
But the highlight for me had to be walking the city walls. This medieval defense fortress spans nearly 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and provides an unforgettable view of the coastline. You can’t come to Dubrovnik without doing this!
This tour is the perfect introduction to Dubrovnik, and with over 500 glowing reviews, you know you can’t go wrong!
Book my favorite city tour here before it sells out!
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 ordering the watermelon salad to start with. The service here is absolutely wonderful, and if you’re in the mood for something refreshing, I can definitely vouch for their signature drink!
Afternoon – Relax on the beach
You’ve had a busy morning of exploring, so this afternoon is all about relaxing at the beach before heading for a kayaking tour later. Dubrovnik gets HOT during the summer, but luckily, there are several beaches within walking distance of the Old Town where you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the Adriatic.
Banje Beach is the closest and most popular option, just a 10-minute walk from Old Town, though it can get crowded. It’s a pebbled beach which isn’t the comfiest to lie on, so you’ll probably want to rent a sunbed. Loungers start from around 100 HRK (€12).
For a quieter, more local vibe, I always enjoy visiting Plaža Sveti Jakov. It’s about 25 minutes away from the Old Town on foot or a 6-minute cab ride. There’s a lovely beach bar here where you can rent parasols and sunbeds from, or even SUP boards if you feel like going for a paddle!
Or, if you’re just looking to jump straight into the sea, Buža Beach is a hidden gem tucked right outside the city walls. It’s a secluded rock beach which is ideal for swimming!
Evening – Go kayaking at sunset
Is there a better way to end your first day in beautiful Dubrovnik than kayaking on the Adriatic with a drink in hand?
Short answer: no! This top-rated kayaking tour is an awesome adventure that’s both serene and exciting. It starts at 5:30 pm in the summer, or 4:30–5 pm during the spring, and 3:30 pm in the fall, in accordance with sunset times. Either way, it’s the perfect way to cap off a great first day in Dubrovnik.
Before you head out, make a quick stop at Mlinar, a bakery (just a short walk from the meeting point) to grab a fresh bagel or pastry—you’ll want something light before paddling, especially since dinner will be on the later side tonight.
We had the best time on this tour! Paddling along Dubrovnik’s dramatic coastline was absolutely fantastic. We loved weaving past the towering city walls and exploring quiet coves that were only accessible by kayak. We even stopped at a hidden cave beach where we swam, snorkeled, and did a little bit of cliff jumping!
After lots of exploring, we stopped to float for a while and sip some local Croatian beverages, with epic views of the shore. It’s really moments like these that make us love traveling so much! No wonder it has hundreds of rave reviews—read them here!
Book this epic kayak tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
Dinner – Gradska kavana Arsenal Restaurant
I can assure you that the kayaking tour works up quite an appetite, so after freshening up from a long day in the sun, head for dinner at Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant. There’s a fantastic outdoor terrace here that offers gorgeous views of the old port and the city walls, so it’s an unbeatable place to eat dinner! I love the truffle mushroom pasta here, and the octopus salad is a must-try for seafood lovers. It stays open until midnight, so you can always stay for a well-earned nightcap if you fancy it.
Day 2
Breakfast – Restaurant Maskeron
This morning’s tour offers hotel pickup, or you can meet the tour in town if you prefer. If you opt for pickup, have breakfast at your hotel or grab something nearby. However, if you’re meeting the tour, Restaurant Maskeron is just a 12-minute walk away. It opens at 8 am, so you’ve got plenty of time to grab something before meeting the tour at 9:30. They do great omelettes made with local cheese and ham, or the salmon scrambled eggs are also a standout!
Morning – Explore the iconic Blue Cave on a boat tour
Dubrovnik’s Blue Cave is a must-see, and this morning you’ll join this small-group boat tour to experience it firsthand. Be sure to book the morning departure—you can either meet at the designated location or arrange for pickup from your city center hotel.
The Blue Cave is so-named because when sunlight reflects through underwater openings in the cave, the water glows bright blue! It’s really magical to see. But first, the tour will take you to Sunj Beach or Lopud Island for a swim in its shallow, crystal-clear waters—bliss!
Then, it’s onto the Blue Cave itself. The tour provides snorkeling gear, so we were able to dive into the glowing turquoise water and enjoy about an hour of swimming and exploring here. And since we did the morning tour, we had plenty of time to experience the cave without crowds of larger tour groups around.
But what we really loved about this tour was that we also got to visit a few lesser-known caves and discover more of Dubrovnik’s untouched beauty. So in one fell swoop, we got to see the city’s most famous natural attractions, get off the tourist track, and visit some secret spots. It was absolutely brilliant, but don’t just take my word for it because you can read over 6,000 glowing reviews right here!
Check availability and book this popular Blue Cave tour here!
Lunch – Guloso
After a full morning on the water, Guloso is the ideal lunch stop before jumping back into sightseeing. Just a 15-minute walk from the boat tour’s endpoint, this casual spot serves up what might be the best burgers in Dubrovnik. Everything on the menu sounded amazing, so we went with their slider trios to try a little bit of everything—and we weren’t disappointed.
The vibe here is super chill, and since you have time before your next tour, it’s the perfect place to relax and refuel. After lunch, take a leisurely 30-minute stroll back toward Old Town along the coastline. It’s an easy walk and a great way to soak up the views before diving into the next adventure.
Late afternoon – See Game of Thrones film locations
Calling all Game of Thrones fans! This epic tour is your chance to step right into the Seven Kingdoms! If you loved the hit TV show, then book this tour for 4 pm and make your way to Onofrio’s Large Fountain to meet your guide, no matter which museum you went to earlier this afternoon.
If you’re a fan of the show, then I’m sure that you already know that Dubrovnik served as the filming location for King’s Landing. On this tour, you’ll explore the actual spots where some of the series’ most memorable scenes were filmed! As someone who has watched GoT multiple times, walking around all of these locations in real life was a surreal experience.
We visited key locations, including the Pile Gate, the Lovrijenac Fortress (aka the Red Keep), and the steps of the infamous Walk of Shame. One of my favorite moments was standing on the walls overlooking the harbor —if you’ve watched the show, you’ll instantly recognize this as Blackwater Bay!
Meanwhile, our local guide, Nino, also shared behind-the-scenes stories from the filming, which made the tour even more exciting for a die-hard fan like me.
As you can probably tell, I absolutely loved this tour, but I’m certainly not the only one who did. Check out THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews here!
Book your tour here and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Optional activity – D’vino Wine Bar
I know not everyone is a Game of Thrones fan, so I’ve included an alternative for those who aren’t into dragons. After all, you’re right in the heart of Old Town—so whether you’re in the mood for a slow wander through the city walls or just want to kick up your feet at a quiet café, this is the perfect window to do it.
Grab a gelato from Peppino’s, find a shady bench in Gundulić Square, or simply enjoy a slow stroll through the limestone alleys. Croatia also has some amazing wine, so take advantage of all the locally sourced vino right here in the city!
There are tons of great spots, but D’vino is my personal favorite. It’s everything a wine bar should be: secluded, cozy, and full of friendly staff with a real passion for wine. You can order by the glass or do what I do and get a tasting flight of several different varieties. They also have outdoor seating in the alley if you want to soak up some sun.
Dinner – Dalmatino Dubrovnik
Dalmatino Dubrovnik is right around the corner from the end of the tour, or just a few doors down from D’vino wine bar, so head here for dinner. They have fresh seafood, amazing pasta, and lots of delicious wine. Get the chocolate fondue for dessert—you won’t regret it!
Plus, the staff here are incredibly friendly and happy to recommend local specialties, which made the whole experience feel personal and relaxed. We loved the cozy atmosphere—perfect for winding down after a full day of sightseeing and sea air.
Related Read: Heading to Naples next? Don’t miss our guide on how to spend three days in Naples—it’s packed with must-see sights, hidden gems, and local food tips to help you plan the perfect 3-day adventure!
Day 3
Breakfast – Culto Restaurant
This morning’s tour offers hotel pickup in the city center, so if that’s where you’re staying, then just grab something at or near your accommodation this morning. If not, then you can meet today’s tour at 9 am, in exactly the same place you met yesterday’s tour.
If you do that, then grab breakfast at Culto Restaurant, which is just a 13-minute walk from the meeting point. It opens at 7 am during the week or 8 am on Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time for breakfast. They have a ton of different options, including bureks with cheese or eggs and bacon on toast. Or if you want something lighter, have a croissant!
Do bear in mind that it’s closed on Sunday, though, so grab something near your hotel if your third day in Dubrovnik falls on a Sunday.
Full-day Elaphite Islands cruise
One of the best things about visiting Dubrovnik is that it’s perched on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, offering lots of opportunities for scenic boat trips! And for us, the best way to take advantage of this is to book this dreamy full-day cruise to the Elaphite Islands.
Not only is this tour the perfect escape from Dubrovnik’s busy streets, but it also includes delicious food, stunning views, and three island stops. The first of these is Lopud, which we totally fell in love with! Here, we had plenty of time to explore the charming town and relax at the picturesque Šunj Beach.
Next, we headed to Šipan, the largest of the Elaphite Islands. It’s got an incredible, laid-back charm, and we had the best time checking out its rustic villages and ancient olive groves. After strolling through the peaceful surroundings, we returned to the boat for a freshly prepared fish lunch. And don’t worry if fish isn’t your thing, because there are also chicken and vegetarian options available.
But the best part? Unlimited drinks are served onboard! Just when we thought the experience couldn’t get any better…
Then, the final stop of the day was Koločep, where we swam in crystal-clear waters and explored its serene beaches before cruising back to Dubrovnik. Honestly, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking up the scenery, this cruise is an effortless way to explore the Elaphite Islands. No wonder it has so many glowing reviews!
Reserve your spot here and receive FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Restaurant Panorama
Your tour will return around 5 pm, giving you just enough time to freshen up before heading to Panorama Restaurant. It’s a stunning spot that’s perched high above Dubrovnik, so you can hike up the hill or do what we did and take the cable car up here. After all, you might not want to get sweaty in your nice evening clothes!
This place is on the expensive side, but the splurge is worth it for your last night in the city. The views of the city and coastline are absolutely gorgeous, and the service is warm and attentive. We felt like VIPs! Just be sure to book a table because this place is in demand, and when you dine here, you’ll see why.
Evening – Drinks in Old Town
After an unforgettable dinner, toast the end of an epic trip with drinks in Dubrovnik’s charming Old Town. There are tons of fantastic bars here, so you’ll be spoiled for choice!
If you’ve fallen in love with Croatian vino, you can always stop by another wine bar for more, or head to Buzz Bar for the best cocktails in town. It’s a super friendly spot and it’s very reasonably priced given that it’s in the heart of Dubrovnik’s tourist center. We were really impressed by the beer selection here, too!
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 – $$$
For a luxurious stay in Dubrovnik, the Rixos Premium Dubrovnik is my number one choice. This 5-star hotel boasts stunning Adriatic Sea views, modern and elegant rooms, and top-tier amenities. It’s got an outdoor pool, a full-service space, and multiple dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant with epic sea views. Plus, it’s conveniently located just a short walk from the Old Town. Does it get any better than that?
Prices range depending on the season, but usually start around €170 in the slow winter season and €400 during the busy summer season. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Hotel Adria is a fantastic mid-range option in Dubrovnik, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and Elaphiti Islands. The modern rooms are spacious and comfortable, and many of them feature private balconies where you can relax and soak in the scenery. There’s also an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and free parking, so it’s great if you’re planning to hire a car.
This hotel is located a short drive or a 20-minute walk from the Old Town. It’s close to all the best attractions while providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Prices start at around €90 per night during the low season and €200 per night during the high season. You can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
The Hostel Sol is a fantastic budget-friendly option in Dubrovnik, offering clean and comfortable private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each room includes free Wi-Fi and air conditioning, and the property features a shared kitchen for added convenience. Located near the Gruž Port, it’s an ideal base for catching ferries to nearby islands and is only a short bus ride away from the Old Town.
Rooms start as low as €60 per night, and you can visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Dubrovnik’s hotels listed 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
- Know the local rules: Most European countries drive on the right-hand side, except for the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta, where you’ll drive on the left. Some countries also have unique road signs or rules, so it’s worth doing a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need, whether that’s an automatic, a diesel engine, or extra luggage space.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
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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