Last updated on July 6th, 2026 at 06:25 pm
Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering where to stay in Dubrovnik?
Beautiful Dubrovnik is just brimming with gorgeous accommodation and spectacular settings that will make you want to stay longer than you originally planned. I know from first-hand experience, as it’s the Croatian coastal city where I’ve spent more time than anywhere else!
Dubrovnik Old Town is the main area to stay – and it’s fantastic, one of the most atmospheric places I’ve ever visited. I love breakfasting on the terrace surrounded by layers of history, romantic rooftops and wonderful luxury boutique hotels like charming Stari Grad where I stayed most recently. But that’s not the only spot, there’s also nearby Ploce and Pile offering five-star villas and stunning coastal vistas!
The secret to choosing the best place to stay in Dubrovnik is matching the area to your travel style. I’ve stayed in all three locations and found that each offers something unique, from heritage-listed boutique hotels within the ancient walls to chic apartments and luxury hotels with epic sea-view terraces. It’s the reason why I return each summer!
Best Hotels In Dubrovnik Old Town – Top Picks!
Short on time? Here’s my favourite places to stay in Dubrovnik!
- Boutique Hotel Stari Grad – best overall boutique & rooftop in Old Town!
- Palace Natalie – historic hotel, pool & Mediterranean scenic setting!
- Hotel Excelsior – iconic 5-star hotel in Dubrovnik’s Riviera!
Ploce, best area to stay in Dubrovnik for views!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK – OVERVIEW
When choosing where to stay in Dubrovnik, I recommend concentrating on Dubrovnik old town, the UNESCO-listed heritage centre and upmarket “riviera” Ploce, for their convenience and beautiful settings with excellent restaurants and iconic landmarks, and it’s where you’ll find the best boutique hotels in Dubrovnik!
Dubrovnik old town is compact with narrow lanes and entirely pedestrianised areas, similar to Split old town. While stunning neighbourhoods, Ploce and Pile sit on either side of the ancient walls – all within just a few minutes walk and it’s where first time visitors will spend most of their time, exploring the city’s highlights and soaking up the atmosphere!
If you’re looking for that quintessential Dubrovnik experience, I’ve found, staying in or within walking distance of Dubrovnik Old Town is best. It’s packed with charm, historic attractions and beautiful boutique hotels with easy access to boat trips, making it the perfect all-round base!
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – At A Glance
Old Town (UNESCO) – best for first-time visitors
Dubrovnik Old Town is the most central, historic location, bustling and pedestrianised, with the main attractions, boutique hotels, wine bars, and restaurants on your doorstep. It’s atmospheric and ideal for first-time visitors!
Ploce – best for luxury
Ploce is an upscale ‘Riviera’ with boutique and luxury hotels, sea-facing pools, Mediterranean settings, Banje Beach and spectacular Old Town and Adriatic views, just a 10-minute walk to Dubrovnik harbour – a lovely spot for couples!
Pile – best for quiet stays
Pile sits to the west of the Old Town, a charming historic and tranquil seafront location with flatter terrain and views of Lovrijenac Fortress and is a short stroll to the centre of town, best for sea views and quiet convenience!
Lapad – best for beach holidays
Lapad is an upmarket beach area with the most modern resort-style accommodation in Dubrovnik, featuring larger pools and more amenities, just 10-15 minute drive to Dubrovnik Old Town, perfect for family holidays!
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK CROATIA
OLD TOWN DUBROVNIK
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for first-time visitors!
Dubrovnik’s historic centre is the perfect place to stay in Dubrovnik for first-time visitors or for anyone who wants to be centrally located and surrounded by beautiful ancient buildings, old-world charm and atmosphere with the main attractions on your doorstep. You’ll be a quick stroll from the cathedral, Palaces, iconic stone stairs, upscale restaurants and cosy wine bars!
Staying in the old town means having your pick of the best boutique hotels in Dubrovnik including my personal favourite, Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, where I stayed most recently. A real hidden gem with a secret rooftop terrace, while being near the gorgeous harbour and many of my top things to do in Dubrovnik old town, like walking the ancient city walls and taking the cable car for spectacular panoramic views!
The UNESCO-listed old town is what most visitors come to experience, it’s the real heart and soul of the city so while the mornings are peaceful, the main streets become busier with day trippers during peak season. But don’t let that put you off – there are still plenty of quiet corners and in the evening there’s ambiance in spades!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town: Stari Grad
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is the best boutique hotel in Dubrovnik old town, with a lovely ambience, plush interiors and a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the historic rooftops. I stayed last September and especially loved the stylish boutique feel, attentiveness and top location – check out the junior suite with balcony – it’s unbeatable!
The Pucic Palace Hotel
The Pucic Palace Hotel is a historic five-star hotel, a former Baroque Palace combining heritage and elegance with ancient ceilings and antique furnishings for a hint of romance! I’ve visited for breakfast on the charming square and the service is very welcoming – an all-round authentic place to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town!
Bota Palace – Private Suites
Bota Palace offers a chic boutique stay with a beautiful selection of suites situated along a charming cobbled street in the historic centre, boasting larger-than-average king-sized rooms with an attractive bright and airy style, it’s an excellent base and I have stayed here on two trips, the upkeep is fantastic view this stay!
7 Oaks Noble House – Private Suites
7 Oaks Noble House is situated in a lovely part of the old town and offers a range of stylish rooms all well-decorated with elevated furnishings, and there’s rituals products in the bathrooms. For a more comfortable upscale stay, I recommend splurging on the junior suite, but everything here feels new and luxurious!
Scalini Palace Hotel
Scalini Palace Hotel is a cosy hotel set within a charming location in the Old Town, featuring authentic interiors – and a gorgeous stone staircase! I recommend booking the balcony rooms with fantastic views over the rooftops, one of the best great-value boutique hotels in Hvar
Olive Luxury Room – Private
Olive Luxury Room is a newly renovated one-bed apartment near the entrance to the old town. It’s the perfect place to stay in Dubrovnik if you just want a central and beautifully designed private suite where you can just pop out for breakfast – this is one of the best looking interiors I’ve seen for private accommodation!
Top Tip! If you plan to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town, book your boutique hotel as soon as possible, it sells out fast, especially between June and September!
PLOCE EAST GATE DUBROVNIK
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik for luxury & riviera views!
Upmarket Ploce is the best area to stay in Dubrovnik for those seeking luxury villa-style accommodation and stunning views (actually the best views across the old town). A wonderful location for relaxing by the sea while being just a short stroll to the Old Town harbour and iconic Banje beach, I adore this affluent neighbourhood in split and it’s fantastic for couples!
It’s known as the Dubrovnik Riviera, where you’ll find those beautiful postcard panoramas across the orange rooftops and turquoise sea – sunsets from this area are particularly special (trust me, being elevated above the old town is worth it). This is where some of the top hotels in Dubrovnik are situated, like bucket list Hotel Excelsior set along the Mediterranean shoreline just a stone’s throw from all the activity including Dubrovnik boat tours that leave from the harbour!
And not only is the setting stunning and the area convenient, Ploce is also ideal for those looking for hotels in Dubrovnik with a pool to cool off on a hot summers day in between exploring the sights as most of the top hotels here offer private over-water sun-lounging, gorgeous infinity pools and sunny sea-facing balconies for chilled evening drinks!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK PLOCE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik Ploce : Hotel Excelsior
Hotel Exelsior
Hotel Excelsior is one of the most iconic 5-star hotels in Dubrovnik, with a stunning seafront setting, fresh-water pools and unbeatable views over the Old Town. I visit regularly for drinks and sunsets on the terrace, and love the relaxed ambience, classic style and location, it’s easily the perfect spot for summer – view hotel details!
Villa Allure Hotel
Villa Allure Of Dubrovnik is a gorgeous traditional stone boutique hotel with beautiful old-world charm and a private rooftop pool boasting views across the Adriatic and the old town, a popular affordable luxury choice for couples – the premium double with sea view is well worth the upgrade!
Villa Dubrovnik Hotel
Villa Dubrovnik, is one of the more modern hotels in Dubrovnik just a few minutes from the historic centre, offering tasteful designer rooms and a beautiful private coastal setting with beautiful lounging areas and a lovely spa, I stayed here one night after travelling to relax on their private seafront terrace, their deluxe rooms are exceptional!
Ocean Apartment
Ocean Apartment offers a spacious light and airy one-bedroom apartment and a stunning panoramic view of the Riviera and old town – it’s the most scenic and tranquil spot and my favourite area to stay in Dubrovnik – a lovely spot for independent travellers!
PILE GATE WEST DUBROVNIK
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for quiet charms!
Pile sits at the Western entrance to Dubrovnik Old Town and offers a few good attractions and waterfront restaurants of its own, including the historic Lovrijenac Fortress viewpoint and a couple of tucked-away local beaches, not to mention lovely sea views and epic Croatian sunsets.
It’s one of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik for peace and quiet along the waterfront, while being only a 10-minute walk to the historic centre, which you’ll access through the West Gate drawbridge nearby one of the town’s best restaurants, Nautika and my favourite hidden rooftop terrace for sunset drinks – it’s super convenient and also a great experience!
While not overrun with accommodation, there are one or two fantastic boutique hotel options here with gorgeous Mediterranean garden settings and sea views, like idyllic Palace Natali boutique hotel, offering another wonderful and superior boutique hotel stay, soaked in history!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK PILE GATE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik Pile: Palace Natali
Palace Natali Hotel
Palace Natali is a former 16th-century aristocratic summer home turned 5-star boutique hotel oasis, complete with an outdoor pool, lush gardens, and elegant terraces – just a 10-minute walk from Old Town, some rooms come with balconies or see-facing garden terraces – explore this beautiful stay!
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile is a romantic 4-star and affordable luxury boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms, a Mediterranean-style garden and a fantastic breakfast terrace – one of the most popular places to stay in Dubrovnik for couples and a short stroll to Old Town!
Hilton Imperial Hotel
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik – an eye-catching hotel just outside the city walls with glam heritage details, a lovely pool and super plush interiors and spacious suites. The lobby alone is spectacular – this is where the Game of Thrones cast stayed. When I visited for drinks and a look around, I thought the atmosphere and service was fantastic!
Sea Rocks Residence – Private suites
Sea Rocks Residence offers authentic boutique-style individually decorated suites with sea views situated in a peaceful spot right on the waterfront near the historic Fort – certainly a unique place to stay in Dubrovnik for privacy and views!
LAPAD & BABIN KUK
Best area in to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for beaches & luxury resorts!
Lapad is situated further along the coastline around a 15 minute drive to Dubrovnik old town, where you’ll find longer stretches of beach and a few beachfront luxury resorts set in beautiful secluded bays, which makes it the best area to stay in Dubrovnik for families, and those looking for a relaxed beach holiday with pools and more amenities!
A stay in Lapad is more modern and the main advantages are the bigger pools, leisure facilities and fewer crowds which works as a great option for the summer months, where you might want to spend a few hours by the sea or pool lounger on a hot afternoon. I especially like Rixos Premium, one of the best luxury hotels in Dubrovnik, offering quality, expansive rooms and a short drive from the heritage town, similar to the Split accommodation in Podstrana!
Dubrovnik’s luxury resorts maybe far removed from cosy taverns and small boutiques, but there are two nearby stunning beach clubs also situated in scenic bays – Coral Bay and Cococabana, where I have spent a lot of time – overall it maybe the perfect spot for those who prefer to split their time between relaxing and sightseeing around Dubrovnik Old Town, and often there’s parking or complimentary shuttles!
BEST HOTELS & RESORTS IN LAPAD & BABIN KUK
Resorts & luxury hotels in Dubrovnik
Where to stay in Dubrovnik Lapad: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, is a stunning 5-star coastal resort only a 15-minute walk to the historic centre, offering panoramic sea views, two pools, a spa, and several excellent restaurants and bars – the Spa Suite with sea view is well worth the upgrade – the best resort close to Dubrovnik old town!
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is one of the most popular luxury hotels in Dubrovnik, set on a cliff top, boasting wonderful views across a beautiful bay, with beachy white interiors, a small secluded beach, restaurants, a wine bar and pool – you can also walk to the Old Town!
President Hotel
President Hotel offers a prime beachfront location with private sunbeds, a sunny pool and lovely outdoor lounging areas nearby Copacabana Beach – where I’ve spent a lot of time swimming and sunbathing, it’s easily one of my favourite spots to spend a relaxing day!
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, is situated on Lapad’s striking peninsula, it feels like a private island and offers guests multiple restaurants, including a fabulous breakfast spot and two beautiful pools, it’s one of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik for families.
PRIVATE VILLAS IN DUBROVNIK
Villa Paulina – Ploce
Villa Paulina, a stunning six-bedroomed elegant villa in Ploce, offering a stylish aesthetic and a gorgeous private pool overlooking Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik Old Town! A fantastic option for groups, families or special occasions!
Villa T Dubrovnik – Ploce
Villa T Dubrovnik is another six-bedroomed modern villa that comes with a spa, sea-facing infinity pool, terrace, bar, lounging area and even a hot spring bath – there’s every amenity imaginable for groups to enjoy themselves!
Villa Lapisa – Old Town
Villa Lapisa is a dream place to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town, it offers three bedrooms and a pretty balcony with views over the orange rooftops! Newly renovated to a high standard – every mod-con has been thought about, even a sauna!
Villa Inside The Old Town
Villa Inside The Old Town offers guests two bedrooms and bathrooms, ample space, and an unbeatable rooftop terrace, making it just perfect for small groups or families looking for a quality stay in Dubrovnik and more space!
What is the best place to stay in Dubrovnik overall?
Overall, the best place to stay in Dubrovnik is the Old Town or within walking distance – it’s home to the city’s main historic landmarks, attractions, best restaurants, wine bars and best boutique hotels, many of which are former palaces are only a short stroll from the beaches and boat excursions – you will have a wonderful experience!!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK – HELPFUL TIPS!
Stay Around Dubrovnik Old Town If It’s Your First Visit
The historic old town and the Riviera are the best places to stay in Dubrovnik, especially if it’s your first visit to the area, and Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is the best hotel in Dubrovnik old town, perfectly situated for reaching the landmarks, attractions, best restaurants, bars and boat trips on foot!!
Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik
The best time to visit Dubrovnik is between May and October, but for the best experience with great weather and fewer crowds, I recommend May-June or mid-September to early October. Personally, I prefer either the beginning of summer, May-June or September, which are overall the best months to visit, if you’re continuing on to the Croatian Islands!
How Many Days In Dubrovnik
Many visitors arrive for a short stay before visiting the Dalmatian Islands, but really, 3 days in Dubrovnik is ideal, or longer if you want more beach days and to explore the region’s highlights like the Elaphiti Islands or coastal heritage town of Cavtat, just a stone’s throw away!!
Dubrovnik Old Town Is Compact And Walkable
Dubrovnik Old Town is compact and very walkable, with many pedestrianised areas, including the entire walled town and most of Pile area, making it a hassle-free, easy to get around and charming area to stay, just like Split Old Town, Korcula Town and Hvar Town in the Dalmatian Region!
Parking Is Limited In The Old Town
Croatia’s heritage towns are notoriously difficult to park in, and Dubrovnik Old Town is fully pedestrianised, so you won’t be able to park in front of your hotel. If you have a car, some hotels along Ploce, Pile and Lapad offer on-site parking; alternatively, there are some parking lots outside the old town – you’ll have to walk in with your luggage.
How To Get Around Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Old Town, Pile, Ploce and Banje beach are walkable areas, while taxis, local buses, and cheap Ubers are available from Pile Gate for visiting Lapad beaches, and if you’re exploring further afield, there are taxi boats and excursions from Dubrovnik harbour.
I’ve shared all my favourite spots, including historic gems and day trips, in my Things to Do in Dubrovnik Old Town guide!
What To Pair With Dubrovnik?
After staying in Dubrovnik for 3/4 nights, I recommend the scenic ‘wine Island’ of Korcula for 3 nights followed by vibrant Hvar Island the most beautiful in the Adriatic for 3/4 nights – this is the perfect pairing – if you have more time add 2 nights in tranquil and authentic Vis Island before rounding off your Adriatic trip with a stay in Split old town for 2/3 nights – this is my personal favourite itinerary!
For more Croatia island-hopping advice, here’s my full guide to the bucket list Croatian Islands!
Dubrovnik Old Town, best place to stay in Dubrovnik for atmosphere!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK: FAQ
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for first-timers?
For first-time visitors, the best areas to stay in Dubrovnik are the Old Town, the Riviera (Ploce) or Pile – these spots are attractive and convenient, within easy walking distance of Dubrovnik’s main sites, best scenery and iconic landmarks! Especially great if you’re visiting Dubrovnik for the first time and want to be central and ‘wowed’ as soon as you step out of your hotel!
What is the best hotel in Dubrovnik Old Town?
The best hotel in Dubrovnik is the iconic Excelsior Hotel on the seafront in upmarket Ploce a five minute walk from the old town walls with a stunning pool, over-water terrace and views, a stay here is luxurious!
What are the best boutique hotels in Dubrovnik?
Most visitors will want that quintessential Dubrovnik old town experience and the best boutique hotels in Dubrovnik are, Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, The Pucic Palace Hotel or Palace Natali – all perfectly situated for exploring the attractions – just stroll away!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for couples?
Dubrovnik Old Town is ideal for couples, with its charming architecture, cosy wine bars, upmarket restaurants and beautiful boutique hotels like romantic Stari Grad, but also, right along the tranquil Riviera, there’s even more beautiful settings and lovely hotels like historic Palace Natali, which is a great place to stay in Dubrovnik for couples!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik with a family?
Dubrovnik Old Town offers very little for families as there’s cobbled streets, steep stairs, boutique hotels, and mostly high-end restaurants, which give it an adult/couples vibe! I recommend beachfront resorts that offer pools and more amenities, such as Hotel Dubrovnik Palace in Lapad or Babin Kuk, which is by far the best area to stay in Dubrovnik with families.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for beach holidays?
The best places to stay in Dubrovnik for beach holidays are Lapad, where you’ll find pebble beaches near five-star resorts, and beautiful beach clubs such as Coral Beach Club, while just outside the old town walls, the iconic Banje Beach in Ploce is a great spot, near some of the best accommodation in Dubrovnik!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for nightlife?
Dubrovnik is pretty low-key and classy, with cosy wine bars, rooftop terraces like gorgeous M’arden, and atmospheric squares with Jazz taking centre stage, especially in the charming heritage centre, which is overall, the best place to stay in Dubrovnik for nightlife!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik without a car?
The best place to stay in Dubrovnik without a car is the Old Town, including Ploce and Pile, where you can easily walk around the main sights, and it has fantastic transport links. For exploring further afield, there are Taxi boats to coastal hotspots like Cavtat, and wonderful day trips from Dubrovnik to islands and landmarks, plus the Tourist Office has monthly event details!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for historic vibes?
The Old Town is the best place to stay in Dubrovnik for historic vibes and sightseeing, where you’ll be surrounded by 13th-century Roman history, cathedral bells, and atmosphere. You can also stay overnight in former palaces, such as The Pucic Palace Hotel, a wonderful five-star historic hotel in Dubrovnik’s charming centre!
Still planning your Dubrovnik itinerary?
Planning your trip to Dubrovnik? I’ve also shared a complete what to do travel guide for first-time visitors, my favourite restaurants, and the best day trips – perfect for pulling together your ideal itinerary!
- Complete Guide To Dubrovnik – top tips & need to know for first time visitors!
- Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik Old Town – heritage sites, attractions & experiences!
- How To Spend 3 Days In Dubrovnik – top itinerary planning tips for Dubrovnik!
- Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
- Day Trips From Dubrovnik – islands, bays & heritage towns worth visiting!
- Top Boat Tours From Dubrovnik – Elaphiti Islands, Mljet National Park & beyond!
- Cavtat Day Trip From Dubrovnik – what to see & do in scenic Cavtat!
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Michelle Trudie, is the founder of Little Wanderblog, a luxury boutique travel site. She has travelled to over 30 countries in the last 15 years. Michelle share’s her passion for stylish and affordable luxury travel experiences in Europe and beyond! Her goal is to make travel planning easier to hidden gem places!