Dubrovnik Itinerary: What to See, Do & Eat

Visit Dubrovnik: A Storybook Escape on Croatia’s Sparkling Coast

Dubrovnik feels like it leapt out of a fantasy novel. Stone walls, terracotta rooftops, narrow alleys, and a shimmering sea— Whether you’re here to follow the footsteps of royalty (fictional or real), soak in sunsets, or island hop your heart out, this Croatian gem promises an unforgettable adventure.

Here’s your ultimate guide to visit Dubrovnik—what to see, where to stay, how to get around, and the magic you can’t miss.

Where Is Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik sits on Croatia’s southern Adriatic coast, near the border with Montenegro. It’s part of the Dalmatian Coast and one of the country’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With crystal waters on one side and steep cliffs on the other, the location is truly breathtaking.

Getting There: Airport, Transfers & Uber

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is just 20 km (12 miles) from the city. You can get there easily by:

• Airport shuttle bus – €10, drops you at Pile Gate
• Taxi or private transfer – Around €35–€45
• Uber – Yes, it’s available and convenient

From the airport, you’re only about 30 minutes from diving into Old Town’s magic.

When to Visit Dubrovnik

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is in spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these months, you’ll enjoy warm weather, a pleasant sea for swimming, and far fewer crowds compared to the busy summer peak. July and August bring intense heat and an influx of cruise ship passengers, which can make the city feel packed and overwhelming.

If you’re planning to walk the iconic city walls, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The midday sun can be relentless, and the narrow walkways often get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. Choosing the right time can make your experience more comfortable—and the views even more rewarding.

Language, Currency & Transport

• Language: Croatian (but English is widely spoken)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Public Transport: Reliable buses run all over. Bus stops are right outside Pile Gate and Ploče Gate, the two main entrances to Old Town.

Cars are not allowed inside Old Town, so expect to walk—and climb. Lots of steps!

Where to Stay: Inside vs. Outside the Walls

Stay in Old Town if…

You’ve got 2–3 days and want everything at your doorstep: sights, food, nightlife. Old Town is a maze of history with Stradun, the main street, running through its heart. Every alley off Stradun hides a restaurant, bar, gelato shop, or coffee spot tucked in cozy nooks.

But—beware the stairs. Most accommodations are private rooms or apartments, often small and only reachable by climbing many steps. No cars are allowed inside the walls, so you’ll need to lug your luggage through stone streets and up to your stay.

Entry to the old town is via two entrances :

• Pile Gate (main entrance, near bus stops)
• Ploče Gate (closer to the cable car and beach access)

Stay outside Old Town if…

You prefer more space, comfort, or are staying longer. We stayed at the Dubrovnik Palace Hotel in the Lapad area—modern, spacious, with stunning sea views and a beautiful pool. It was a perfect escape after a busy day of exploring.

Outside the Old Town, you’ll find larger hotels with more amenities. Buses run frequently and stop right outside both gates, so getting to the city is easy and quick.

Exploring the Old Tow

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a living museum. Once you step through Pile Gate or Ploče Gate, you’ll find yourself in a maze of marble streets, sunlit squares, and red-roofed charm. The main street, Stradun, runs through the heart of it all—lined with shops, cafés, and centuries of history.

Right at the entrance by Pile Gate, you’ll spot the Large Onofrio’s Fountain. Built in the 15th century, this circular stone fountain was part of an advanced aqueduct system that brought drinking water to the city from a spring 12 kilometers away. Even today, fresh water still flows from its 16 carved stone faces—and yes, it’s safe to drink! It’s a popular meeting point and a refreshing stop on a hot day.

Wander off Stradun, and you’ll discover side streets bursting with hidden gems—cosy wine bars, family-run restaurants, gelato shops, and tiny boutiques tucked into every corner. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself climbing endless stone staircases—this city was built on a slope, and you’ll feel it in your calves!

Every turn tells a story. From ancient churches to baroque palaces, there’s something to discover around every corner. Just wear comfy shoes and take your time—it’s a place best explored slowly.

What’s the Dubrovnik Pass?

It’s a sightseeing and transport pass—and it’s worth every euro.

Get the Dubrovnik Pass – Totally Worth It

If you’re planning to explore Dubrovnik properly, the Dubrovnik Pass is a smart investment. It covers entrance to many top attractions and offers great value—especially if you’re staying outside the Old Town and relying on public transport. You can choose from 1-day (€40), 3-day (€50), or 7-day (€60) passes. The longer your stay, the more you save.

Here’s what’s included:

• City Walls (a must!) + Fort Lovrijenac
• Rector’s Palace
• Maritime Museum
• Ethnographic Museum
• Marin Držić House
• Dubrovnik Natural History Museum
• Friars Minor Franciscan Monastery Museum
• Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik
• Dulčić – Masle – Pulitika Gallery
• Pulitika Studio
• Archaeological exhibitions
• House Bukovac (in Cavtat!)

Plus, it gives you unlimited local bus travel within Dubrovnik, and discounted tickets for the Lokrum Island ferry and entrance. If you’re staying outside the centre or planning to see a lot, this pass pays for itself quickly.

You can buy it online or at the tourist info kiosks around town.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik

1. Walk the City Walls

The 2 km walk around the walls is a must. Views over red rooftops, forts, and the sparkling Adriatic will take your breath away.

Tip: Go early or late in the day. It’s quieter and cooler.

2. Ride the Cable Car to Mount Srđ

You can reach Mount Srd in four minutes using the cable cars, you’ll rise above the city to take in sweeping panoramic views. You can grab a drink at the summit and watch the sunset paint the sky.

3. Explore Game of Thrones Filming Locations

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, walking through Dubrovnik feels like stepping straight into King’s Landing. The Old Town served as the show’s main backdrop for the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, and you can easily visit many iconic locations on foot.

Start at Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. It doubled as the gate to the Red Keep, where many confrontations took place. From there, stroll along Stradun—officially known as St. Dominic Street—which featured in several scenes showing the bustling streets of King’s Landing.

Don’t miss the towering City Walls, especially Fort Bokar and Minceta Tower. These were used in key defensive scenes and as dramatic exterior shots of the Red Keep. Nearby, the Jesuit Stairs—or Jesuit Steps—served as the location for Cersei’s unforgettable “Walk of Shame” from the Great Sept of Baelor.

For more cinematic surprises, visit the Rector’s Palace, which stood in as the palace of the Spice King of Qarth, and stop by the Ethnographic Museum Rupe, the exterior of which was used as Littlefinger’s brothel.

Just outside the city walls, Fort Lovrijenac looms on a cliff. In the series, it became the Red Keep—a stronghold of political power and betrayal. Whether you explore on your own or join a guided tour, these locations make the world of Westeros come alive around every stone corner.

Ferry to Lokrum Island

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Lokrum Island offers a peaceful, scenic escape from the city’s buzz. You can catch the ferry from the small port inside Old Town, and if you have the Dubrovnik Pass, you’ll get discounted tickets for both the ferry and entrance fee—a great deal for a laid-back island getaway.

Once on Lokrum, you’ll find shaded walking paths, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of quiet spots to relax. Swim in the Dead Sea, a small saltwater lake tucked inland that’s perfect for a cool float. Explore the ruins of an ancient Benedictine monastery, and don’t miss the lush botanical garden, home to Mediterranean and beautiful plants.

And for Game of Thrones fans, you’re in for a treat—inside the former monastery, you can sit on an official replica of the Iron Throne and snap a royal photo.

With no cars and plenty of space to roam, Lokrum is perfect for a relaxing half-day trip. Bring a towel, wear sturdy shoes, and pack some water—you won’t want to leave too soon.

5. Visit Cavtat

If you’re craving a quieter pace, head to Cavtat, a charming seaside town just 30 minutes from Dubrovnik. You can get there easily by boat from the Old Town port—a scenic ride that costs around €20 return per person—or take the local bus from Ploče Gate for just €4 each way.

Just a heads-up: if you choose to take the boat, be aware that sea conditions can get choppy. Tour companies use different-sized boats, and in rougher weather, if in the smaller boat you might get splashed by waves or feel the boat bouncing over the swells. It’s fun for some, but if you’re prone to seasickness, consider bringing motion sickness tablets—or choose the bus option instead. We learned that the hard way!

Cavtat offers a peaceful escape from the tourist-packed streets of Dubrovnik. Enjoy a relaxed waterfront lunch, explore its quaint harbour, and take a picturesque coastal walk along the peninsula. There’s even a viewpoint that gives you stunning panoramic views over the Adriatic—especially beautiful at sunset. It’s perfect for a half-day trip or a slow afternoon with a gelato in hand and the sea breeze in your hair.

6. Discover Dubrovnik’s Museums & Art

With the Dubrovnik Pass, dive into:

• The Cultural History Museum
• The Maritime Museum
• War Photo Limited – modern photojournalism that hits home

7. Island Hopping Adventures

If you enjoy sea swimming and relaxing on a boat there are many islands to visit around Dubrovnik:

• Elaphite Islands: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—sleepy villages and relaxing beaches
• Korčula: Known as Marco Polo’s birthplace, with its own mini Old Town charm
• Mljet National Park: Lakes, forests, and incredible nature trails

The best way to explore these islands is to take Dubrovnik island tour.

8. Fort Lovrijenac

Perched dramatically on a cliff 37 meters above the sea, Fort Lovrijenac stands just outside the western edge of the Old Town. Locals often call it “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar”—and it’s easy to see why. The fort played a crucial role in protecting the city, especially from naval attacks.

Its bold triangular structure spans three levels, once guarded by ten powerful cannons. The most famous of these was “Lizard,” a massive cannon that symbolized the strength of the city’s defences. Cleverly, the walls facing the sea are a massive 12 meters thick, while the inner wall facing Dubrovnik is just 60 centimeters—intentionally designed that way so the city could destroy it from within if ever seized by enemies.

Above the main entrance, you’ll spot a proud inscription carved in stone:
“Non bene pro toto libertas venditur auro” – or “Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world.” This motto captures Dubrovnik’s enduring spirit of independence.

Today, Fort Lovrijenac is not just a military relic—it also offers breathtaking views over the Adriatic and Old Town, and serves as a dramatic venue for open-air theatre performances, especially during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

Bonus: Entry to Fort Lovrijenac is included with your Dubrovnik Pass, and it’s best visited alongside the city walls, since the two share a combined ticket. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes—the climb is steep, but the view is worth every step.

9. Beaches to Chill

Dubrovnik’s beaches are mostly rocky or pebbled, but still gorgeous. Try:

• Banje Beach: Closest to Old Town, with views of the city walls
• Sveti Jakov Beach: More secluded, with a peaceful vibe
• Lapad Bay: Great for families and sunset

10. Coastal Walks & Sunset Bars

• Lapad Promenade is perfect for a seaside stroll
• For an epic sunset, head to Buža Bar—perched on a cliffside outside the city walls
• Watch the sun sink into the Adriatic and feel your worries melt away

Restaurants for vegetarians in Dubrovnik

Pizzeria Tomato- We enjoyed a delicious vegetarian Pizza and aGreek salad, The pizza was lovely. The restaurant is situated right out side Pile Gate.

Silk Pan Asian Fusion-Silk Pan Asian Fusion is a lovely restaurant serving pan Asian food. It is very close to the entrance of pile gate. The variety of vegetarian options were great and we really enjoyed our meal there. The spring rolls, pad thai, green curry and jasmine rice were delicious.

Incredible India Dubrovnik -This restaurant is situated in one of the side streets off the Stradun in Dubrovnik old town. We enjoyed lots of delicious vegetarian dishes at Incredible India. The food was North Indian style, freshly cooked and piping hot.

Mex Cantins Bona Fida– The restaurant is situated in one of the side streets off the Stradum in Old town. There are lots of vegetarian options.

Lastly no holiday is complete with out eating lots of icecream. This we did daily . There are lots of icecream shops all over Dubrovnik old town, our favorite was Peppino Gelato Factory. Apart from this one there are icecream shops around each corner. Do try all the amazing flavours such as fig, lemon pie, crostata apricot and honey and Tiramisu.

Being vegetarians we did not try any Croatian cuisine, mostly it was meat based.

Final Word: Why You Should Visit Dubrovnik

My experience of Dubrovnik, Croatia was nothing short of unforgettable. This city offered everything I look for in a perfect vacation—rich culture, fascinating history, breath taking scenery, inviting beaches, and incredible food. From walking the ancient city walls at sunrise to catching golden sunsets over the Adriatic, every moment felt special. Dubrovnik isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel. I left with a full heart, a camera roll of memories, and a strong desire to return.

If you enjoy my travel posts please check out my Instagram account citrusspiceuk for more travel inspiration. This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Dubrovnik.

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