DubrovnikTravel Guide
Welcome to our Dubrovnik Travel Guide
There’s a reason why revered English poet, Lord Byron, dubbed it “The Pearl of the Adriatic”. Historically known as the Republic of Ragusa, the beautiful city of Dubrovnik is crammed with intriguing discoveries from the country’s past and is known for its striking landscapes. A bustling town surrounded by centuries-old town walls, with stunning sea views and pebble beaches, it’s definitely one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations.
Dubrovnik has been a maritime and mercantile centre of the Adriatic Sea since the 15th century, which is why, in modern times, it promises a holiday that’s steeped in history and culture, as well as an equal dose of adventure and relaxation. Let’s take a look at some of its best bits.
Dubrovnik quick facts
Language
National language
Croatian
Beverages
Bottle of Coke/Pepsi (330ml)
ZAR R72.43
Local time
Friday
9:56am
Currency
Euro
ZAR R1.00 = EUR €0.05
Eating out
Restaurant meal (casual dining)
ZAR R240.79
Electricity
Plug type: C
2 pins • 230V
Explore Dubrovnik
Where to stay in Dubrovnik?
The beautiful, medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik is a Unesco World Heritage Site, making it popular with tourists. But if you’re concerned about crowds and more interested in lounging on the sandy beaches rather than pottering about the cobblestone streets, you’re better off staying in luxurious Babin Kuk, dotted with high-end hotels and upscale restaurants. Looking for something budget-friendly? Set your sights on Gruž.
Right in the centre of the action within the walls of the Old Town is the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, once a nobleman’s home back in the 16th century and now known for its gorgeous, converted interiors and friendly hospitality. The Pucić Place, nestled within an 18th-century baroque palace, is another option, located just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Stradun Promenade.
Four-star hotel, Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, is a gem in the wealthy haven that is Babin Kuk with its top hotels and resorts, green spaces and coastal walks. Let your stress melt away as you feast your eyes on views of the Elaphiti Islands and treat yourself to some pampering at the spa and wellness facilities. Elegant Inn is another option in the area for travellers looking for contemporary yet unpretentious accommodation.
This is the area to stay in Dubrovnik if you’re hoping to save rather than splurge. While it’s a no-frills accommodation provider, family-run Red Dwarf Guesthouse has a spotless reputation, making it a top choice among budget-focused backpackers. Then there’s House Smajić, with its breath-taking sea views and situated just a few steps away from a bus stop for effortless and affordable transportation as you head off on your adventures.
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Things to do in Dubrovnik
Croatia is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for family holidays, and there’s no denying that Dubrovnik is its most enthralling city. With diverse activities available for every kind of traveller – from culture vultures to sun seekers – you’re bound to find something that floats your boat.
The Old Town is full of historical treasures and certainly the city’s most notable attraction. It’s encircled by stone walls that date back centuries, originally forged to protect the city from attacks by invaders. A popular activity is to walk along the perimeter of the remnants of these town walls – which extends approximately 3.4 miles (nearly 5.5km), so don’t forget your hat, comfy walking shoes and sunblock!
Once inside the Old Town there’s plenty to scope out, including the broad pedestrian walkway known as the Stradun or Placa, often referred to as the town’s main “artery”. Glossy from centuries of foot traffic, this busy limestone street cuts the town in half, dividing it into north and south. Some sights to look out for include Onofrio’s Fountain and its trickling spring water, Renaissance-era
St Saviour Church and the Franciscan Monastery (where you can place an order for an elixir from the in-house pharmacy, built in the 1300s).
Island hopping is a popular activity in Croatia and an easy way to escape the crowds swarming through the Old Town. It’s possible to hop aboard a ferry for a 10-minute journey across the water to Lokrum Island with its emerald-green pine trees and winding walking trails. Keep your eyes peeled for peacocks along the way, as well as their colourful fallen feathers along the paths – the perfect souvenirs that won’t cost a penny!
Get a new perspective on the city’s breath-taking landmarks and landscapes by boarding the Dubrovnik Cable Car. On one side you’ll enjoy sprawling views of the Old Town below and, on the other, the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Looking for an immersive experience? Then a tour is the way to go.
Flights to Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik food and drink
Seafood, stews, soups and pasta – it’s safe to say that Croatian cuisine is fairly diverse, depending on where in the country you visit. Down in Dubrovnik there’s a strong focus on dishing up delicacies from the sea, and you’ll also find noticeable Greek, Mediterranean and Italian influences on the menu. Here’s a round-up of where to eat in Dubrovnik to get a good idea of the local fare.
Not willing to compromise on quality while on holiday? You can’t go wrong with a reservation (advance bookings recommended) at one of the 11 Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubrovnik. Let’s just mention two to inspire you. Pjerin specialises in classic Croatian and Mediterranean food with an à la carte breakfast menu and decadent dinners crafted by executive chef, Robert Račić. Then there’s Bistro Tavulin in the heart of the Old Town just behind the church of St Blaise – be sure to sample the sea bass!
It can get pretty hot on the beach in Dubrovnik. Taking a dip in the water is one way to cool off – but an even better way is to stop by one of the many beach bars, which serve delicious cocktails, fruity smoothies and other ice-cold beverages, along with a selection of nibbles and the chance to lap up gorgeous sea views. The upmarket Cave Bar MORE is one of the unique beach bars in the city, inside a natural cave where the acoustics make it possible to enjoy the sounds of the sea loud and clear even when the waves are out of sight! To enhance the experience there’s even a glass floor where you can check out the stalagmites and stalactites. Food-wise, the menu is very short and sweet but what’s there is pretty wow – have you ever had French fries with truffles and cheddar sauce?
Beach Bar Dodo is on the quieter beach of Sulic and is a quirky, fun place to pop in after some sightseeing or swimming in the sea just below it. Sit on one of the swings enjoying the breeze and the view, sample their popular cocktails and when you feel peckish, whether you order the chicken salad or the shrimp tails, or anything in between, you can’t go wrong. The food here is delicious.
With so much exploring to do, sitting down at a restaurant in Dubrovnik for any amount of time might seem inconceivable. So, if you’d prefer to eat on the go, the great news is that the city is home to a thriving street-food scene. Look out for Take Away Dubrovnik in particular for a selection of fast-food favourites, including juicy burgers and meaty kebabs and Igra for gluten-free street food inspired by Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, European and Croatian menu items. People rave about their homemade bread and hummus, pulled pork and cheesy eggs and fries.
Get a real taste for the local cuisine by booking a tour.
Dubrovnik through your eyes
Where to shop in Dubrovnik?
Got your credit card at the ready? Pick up some souvenirs, mouth-watering treats or stylish new threads when shopping in Dubrovnik.
The open-air Gundulićeva Poljana market is open daily in the Old Town, boasting an assortment of vendors selling fresh fruit and veggies and attractive souvenirs. Be sure to stop by here if you’re planning a picnic on the beach or in one of the parks in Dubrovnik. Gruž Market is another top choice for seafood, fresh produce and flowers.
Shopping centres are in short supply in Dubrovnik. But if you must head to one, the DOC Shopping Mall is the answer. It’s in the Lapad district and includes fashion outlets, souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés. There’s also the Minčeta Mall in Gruž which features some big brands like Bugatti and Benetton, perfume stores, accessories, souvenirs and Top Marine – specialising in fishing gear.
If you have plans to get on the Duborvnik cable car, then you simply have to stop by the Ohrid Pearl Shop. Here, you can find handmade jewellery which is crafted using pearls coated in a special silver emulsion. This shimmering coating is sourced from plashica fish scales – a fish endemic to Lake Ohrid. Dubrovačka Kuća is another tourist go-to for gifts to take home to loved ones. You’ll find this double-level treasure trove just beneath the Dominican Monastery.
Looking for a safe and simple way to bring your money when you travel? Our Travel Money Card has you covered!
When is the best time to travel to Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean climate meaning that it has hot summers and mild winters with rain.
Winter is December to February where December highs are around 13.8 degrees Celsius (57F). The best time to visit Dubrovnik is in summer – July and August – when the weather is at its warmest and most inviting. It’s the ideal time to stroll through the streets of the Old Town followed by a few hours of sunning yourself on a nearby pebble beach, unless one of the city’s random afternoon thundershowers rains on your parade. It can get very hot though, around 35 degrees Celsius (95F). June to August are also high season, so if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds, aim to holiday here any time before the end of October when the colder weather starts rolling in.
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How to get around Dubrovnik
Getting around in Dubrovnik is easy thanks to plenty of options for public transport. Buses, taxis, ferries and boat trips – here’s what you need to know.
There’s only one way to explore the Old Town in Dubrovnik, and that’s on foot. Pull on your walking shoes and get those steps in – with so many amazing sights to discover you won’t even notice you’re exercising!
Get a local taxi or order an Uber or a Bolt if you have somewhere specific to be. Just keep in mind that traffic can be a problem during high season, also sometimes making it difficult to secure a lift. You’ll likely be better off hiring your own car.
Walking to the Old Town from certain areas in Dubrovnik can be challenging, especially if you’re visiting in summer when it’s hot. In this instance, catching a bus is your best bet. Look out for Libertas city buses, which link the Old Town to Gruž, Babin Kuk, Lapad and Ploče – and consider investing in a “hopper” ticket if you’re going to be doing more than just a one-off journey.
You can embark on a day of exciting island hopping with the help of the city’s ferries. Make your way to Split, Brač or Hvar or grab a boat transfer to Šipan.
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What are the best beaches in Dubrovnik?
Dreaming of a European beach holiday? The beaches in Dubrovnik are a mix of both sandy and pebble beaches, all promising an endless supply of Vitamin-Sea! Here are a few of the best.
This beach, located in Lapad Bay, is a popular choice for families largely due to its awesome waterslide, guaranteed to have the kids (and the adults) screaming with delight for hours on end. Let the little ones paddle and play to their heart’s content while you grab a cold one from the beach bar and soak up the rays.
Make a beeline for Banje Beach if you’re looking to cool off after a day spent exploring the Old Town. It’s the closest beach to the town with the added bonus of the option to hire jet-skis or go sea kayaking. There’s also plenty of shallow water for the kids to paddle in and the option to upgrade your towel to a sun lounger for a fee.
Looking for a bit of a livelier atmosphere? A go-to beach for younger, more energetic travellers, Copacabana beach is where the party’s at! During high season you’ll be treated to some music blaring from the surrounding beach bars while the kids enjoy the floating water park.
What are the best parks in Dubrovnik?
Connect with nature in Croatia beyond the beach. There are a few stunning parks in Dubrovnik that await you, offering the chance to enjoy a laid-back picnic, a relaxing stroll or a sun-bathing session.
Gradac Park is one of Dubrovnik’s best-kept secrets, just a short walk away from the Old Town and teetering on the edge of a cliff. It’s a green sanctuary in which to escape the crowds. Enjoy a treat for the senses, including the sound of the waves splashing the cliff-face, the salty smell of the sea and the feel of gravel crunching underfoot.
You’ll find some of the best views in the city at Orsula Park, another cliffside green oasis. Along with mind-blowing views, the park is also home to a sizeable amphitheatre which often hosts a variety of shows and concerts. The kids will love the little playground that features play structures made out of old tree trunks.
Birdwatchers from far and wide flock to this stunning park, located in Lapad. The forest comprises plenty of beautiful flora in the form of wild olive trees, towering oak trees and prickly pine trees – and the birds have taken full advantage of this! Look out for the chaffinch and the goldfinch, to name but two of the forest’s feathered residents.
Getting from park to park is so much better with your own wheels. Hitch your ride now!
Dubrovnik Frequently asked questions
When packing for a trip to Dubrovnik, don't forget the essentials like your visa, passport, chargers, camera, some euro and the correct power adaptor. Clothing wise, check out the seasonality guides and pack to suit the conditions - aka some warmer layers for winter and lighter options for summer. Other necessities include a walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear and a towel so that you’re ready for a day at the beach.
Perched in southern Croatia on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers travellers a bounty of beautiful accommodation options. Some of the most popular locations include the Old Town, Lapad, Pile and Babin Kuk.
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Croatia has been blessed with a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot summers and mild winters. If you’re heading to Dubrovnik, we recommend travelling between March and May, or September and October to make the most of warm, sunny days that aren’t too hot.
Enjoy the spoils of the Dalmation Coast, with days spent exploring the city walls and limestone streets of Dubrovnik. Ride the cable car for incredible views of the coast before enjoying a hike through picturesque pine forests and renting a deck chair on the beautiful Banje Beach.
Flight Centre's travel experts are no stranger to the allure of Dubrovnik’s scenic shores, and have worked hard to curate the best Dubrovnik holiday packages on the market. Sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your phone & emails here. You can also check out our deals online, or speak to one of our Travel Experts.