Things to do in Dubrovnik: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Dubrovnik is best visited early in the morning or late in the day, once the cruise crowds have gone. Walk the city walls, stroll down the Stradun, visit the Rector’s Palace, ride up Mount Srđ for sunset, and spend a day on Lokrum.

The city walls

Walking the city walls gives the best view over the orange-tiled roofs and the sea. Entry is paid; go at opening time or late in the day, with water: many steps and little shade.

The Stradun and the old town

The Stradun, the main street paved with polished stone, runs from the Pile Gate to the old port. Around it: the Rector’s Palace, the cathedral and the Franciscan monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest working pharmacies.

Mount Srđ

The cable car climbs Mount Srđ, which overlooks the old town and the islands. Sunset there is superb.

Lokrum island and the sea

A few minutes by boat from the old port, Lokrum island offers gardens, coves and free-roaming peacocks. In town, Banje beach and kayak trips below the walls are very popular.

Filming locations

Many old-town streets and stairways served as sets for Game of Thrones: themed guided tours are available.

Day trips from Dubrovnik

• The Elaphiti Islands, by boat, for the day.
• Ston, its walls and its oysters.
• Kotor (Montenegro) or Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), as day trips: there’s a border crossing, bring your ID.

Getting around

• On foot in the car-free old town.
• Buses link the Pile Gate to Lapad and Gruž port.
• From the airport, a shuttle reaches the Ploče Gate, at the entrance to the old town, in about 30 to 40 minutes.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Croatia.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik?

The areas and our booking tips are covered in our guide Where to stay in Dubrovnik.