Where to stay in Dubrovnik: the best areas for your trip

In short: for evening magic, stay inside the walls, knowing you’ll carry your luggage up steps. For views of the old town, Ploče; for families and beaches, Lapad; for ferries to the islands and a gentler budget, Gruž. In summer, book early: the city is in high demand.

Understanding Dubrovnik in two minutes

The old town, surrounded by walls and crossed by the Stradun, is the heart of Dubrovnik. Just to the east lie Ploče and Banje beach. To the west is the Lapad peninsula, and in between, the port of Gruž, with the ferries and the bus station. Mount Srđ towers over the city; Lokrum island is a few minutes away by boat. Buses link the districts to the Pile Gate.

The right area for your trip

Evening magic: the old town

Car-free lanes and steps, churches and palaces: staying inside the walls lets you enjoy the city early in the morning and in the evening, when it empties. Accommodation is often small (apartments, guesthouses), and you’ll carry your luggage.

Views of the walls: Ploče

Just east of the Ploče Gate, this area has superb views of the old town and harbour, with Banje beach close by. Ideal for couples.

Families and beaches: Lapad

The peninsula to the west: seaside promenade, beaches, hotels with pools and restaurants. Quieter, and linked to the centre by bus.

Ferries and budget: Gruž

Near the ferry port and bus station, handy for heading to the islands (Lokrum, the Elaphiti Islands) and often more affordable. Less charm, but well connected.

Getting to Dubrovnik

The airport is about 30 to 40 minutes away by shuttle bus: it stops near the Ploče Gate, at the entrance to the old town, then at the bus station. Ferries to the islands leave from Gruž port.

Our booking tips

1. Book early for summer: the city is small and in high demand.
2. Check access: number of steps, distance to the nearest bus stop or taxi rank.
3. Look at the total price: tourist tax is sometimes added to the displayed rate.
4. Think about air conditioning in July and August.
5. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you’re there

Walk the city walls early in the morning or late in the day, go up Mount Srđ for sunset, and spend a day on Lokrum. Croatia uses the euro and is part of the Schengen area. For the rest of your trip (Split, the islands, Plitvice Lakes), see our guide Travel in Croatia. To plan your days, see our guide Things to do in Dubrovnik. The areas and useful services are on our Dubrovnik page.