Last updated on January 21st, 2026 at 01:47 pm
Dubrovnik old town is the most popular destination in all of Croatia, famed for its historic sites, orange rooftops and striking views over the Adriatic – it’s one of those special places that actually lives up to the hype!
It’s no secret that Croatia is my favourite country in Europe, and I’ve had the good fortune to visit the old town of Dubrovnik a dozen times; it really is one of the most jaw-dropping towns, packed with incredible sights to explore!
Some of my favourite things to do in Dubrovnik old town include walking the city walls, wine tasting among the cobbled lanes, going on private boat trips to the scenic bays and enjoying lunch with stunning harbour views!
In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to see and do in Dubrovnik old town, based on my personal experience from must-see highlights to hidden gems, for you to plan your ideal trip to Dubrovnik!
So grab a coffee and delve into my list of the best things to do in Dubrovnik old town, plus insider tips from someone who has visited far too many times!
Top Hotel Picks In Dubrovnik Old Town:
Planning your trip? Here’s my top hotel picks!
- Iconic Historic Boutique: Pucic Palace
- Quiet & Romantic Boutique: Hotel Stari Grad
- Elegant Boutique: St. Joseph’s
Read my full guide on where to stay in Dubrovnik
BEST THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
1. WALK THE FAMOUS CITY WALLS (Top things to do in Dubrovnik old town)
I’m sure you’ve heard about the famous walls and might be wondering if they’re worth walking along?! Well, if you want to see the best view in Dubrovnik old town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, yes absolutely! From above, you’ll see the unique layout of the lanes, orange rooftops and the panoramic views across the Adriatic and islands!
The full 2km relatively flat circuit can be taken from either Pile or Ploce gate (I prefer starting at Ploce), which takes around an hour (or longer depending on how many pictures you take!). I recommend going in the evening for the best light, you’ll beat the midday crowds and intense sun and have time to stop for a drink along the walls before sunset!
Tickets at the gate for the walls and fortress entry cost €40 per person, or included if you buy the Dubrovnik City Pass, which includes many more attractions, museums and transport in Dubrovnik old town for €48!
2. WANDER DUBROVNIK’S OLD TOWN LANES
Dubrovnik old town’s compact size is ideal for a wander, the main thoroughfare is called Stradun, which leads from Ploce Gate to Pile Gate, it has the most striking ancient limestone floor to stroll along, and there’s some lovely terraces to stop for a coffee and people watch, including Cafe Festival (the oldest in town)!
But the most fun spots can be found on either side of the Stradun, where there’s a labyrinth of narrow lanes and flower-filled steep stairs to get lost in and wake up those glutes! You’ll soon discover hidden gems, beautiful buildings, courtyards and charming restaurants such as Lucin Kantun tapas, which is one of my favourite finds!
During the daytime, the lanes are pretty quiet as most day trippers mainly head towards the larger historical attractions like the museums, cathedral and fortress, leaving the lanes peaceful to wander – the evenings here, in contrast, are lively and super atmospheric!
Psst. If you want to know more about Dubrovnik old town and history, you might want to consider this popular 2.5-hour walking tour, which tells you the old town’s secrets, with an option to add the 1-day access pass!
3. PAY A VISIT TO TINY LOKRUM ISLAND
Lokrum is the closest island to Dubrovnik old town, it’s the one that you see in all the postcard images for Dubrovnik, and stepping foot on the island is on most people’s lists!
If you’re curious enough, you can get there easily with regular boat shuttles leaving from the old town harbour, it only takes 10-minutes and the island is tiny, so you really only need a couple of hours to see it – and that’s including stopping for lunch or a swim on the rocky shoreline!
You’ll also find a cactus garden to wander, roaming peacocks and restaurant Eden Garden, next to the Benedictine Monastery. In my experience, this is the best way to see the island; the terrace is a tranquil oasis, and who doesn’t want to share a pizza and a glass of local wine with a peacock?
4. TAKE THE CABLE CAR FOR STUNNING VIEWS (Cool things to do in Dubrovnik old town)
You must take a ride on the 5-minute cable car to the top of Mount Srd for the most spectacular panoramic view over Dubrovnik old town, including the outline of the walls, which is what makes it worth doing, and Lokrum Island beyond!
To make your visit even better, I recommend making a reservation at the restaurant Panorama at the top in advance, either for lunch or sunset – it offers a nice Mediterranean menu and seating arrangement (see below!).
You definitely pay for the view, but the experience of looking down at the rooftops is worth it. (PS. You can also just sit at the cafe with a nice iced coffee if you’re short on time!)
From March to October the Cable Car costs €27 for a round trip.
5. EXPLORE DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN’S HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Dubrovnik is known for its attractive historic buildings within the old town, like the churches and Cathedral, most of the time you will just glance and walk past, but I do recommend popping inside the Franciscan Church and Monastery from the 14th-century, housing the oldest pharmacy in Europe and a pretty courtyard, it’s worth a peak!
Another spot is Rector’s Palace, this is a beautiful Gothic-Renaissance building with arched courtyards, carved staircases and preserved rooms that show off 15th-century architecture. When I was there in the morning, a wedding photographer was taking beautiful photos of newlyweds; it was so romantic!
There is a small entry fee for both, but if you have the Dubrovnik City Pass it’s included and it’s also party of the walking guided tour if you wanted to learn the secrets of the old town through a local!
6. TAKE A WONDERFUL PRIVATE BOAT TRIP (A highlight from Dubrovnik old town!)
If you’re staying in the old town in Dubrovnik for three days or more, I 100% recommend this boat trip from the town harbour. It takes you around the Elaphiti Islands in a private speedboat, which is by far the best way to enjoy it (a lot of the group boat tours are overcrowded with limited sightseeing options)!
But on a private boat tour our day out was an incredible experience, away from the bustle and surrounded by nature, scenery, secluded bays, caves and the clearest water for swimming just moments away from the old town.
We also opted for wine tasting and a stop at gorgeous BOWA private beach only accessible by boat, which I thought was a real highlight, this is the boat trip I would do again!
If you want to take the best boat trip from Dubrovnik, check availability and book your spot on this private boat trip here!
7. DISCOVER THE HIDDEN COASTAL GEM CAVTAT BAY! (Top things to see in Dubrovnik)
You may not have heard of Cavtat Bay, but let me tell you Cavtat is the most idyllic and tranquil spot along the Dubrovnik coast to spend a few hours! I only discovered this place on my third trip to Dubrovnik and immediately fell in love with it.
Cavtat is only 25 minutes away from Dubrovnik old town harbour by taxi boat, which arrives right on the waterfront and offers some of the best scenery, a lovely mini riviera, restaurants and a typical small heritage town and a scenic coastal path to walk!
Definitely plan to stop here for lunch, it’s one of the main things to do in Cavtat, I enjoyed a wonderful meal at restaurant La Bohemia on the pretty palm-tree lined riviera!
If you’re keen to explore more gems like Cavtat Bay, I have rounded up the best day trips from Dubrovnik old town, including Cavtat, Elaphiti Islands and National Parks.
8. TREAT YOURSELF TO A GLASS OF WINE IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Finding a good spot for a glass of wine, especially Croatian wine, is definitely my kind of thing and wine lovers will be happy as I’ve located the best places for local wine tasting along the charming lanes of the old town!
M’arden is my top recommendation, a wonderful romantic wine bar situated on a rooftop terrace in the heart of the old town, offering quality pairings with a lovely atmosphere (although these days it’s verging on a restaurant, so I advise getting there quick before it changes!).
For something more cosy, you can check out wine bar Skar or D’vino, both of which have a few tall tables and chairs outside along the maze of narrow alleyways, perfect for sipping wine and relaxing!
9. WALK TO LOVRIJENAC FORTRESS
Fort Lovrijenac is one of the main and iconic landmarks just outside of the Dubrovnik old town walls and it’s another famous Game of Thrones location and stunning viewpoint!
I know there seems to be many viewpoints, but with this one there’s a Fortress and another perspective, for a start it sits on a huge rock at the end of Pile Gate towards the West Harbour and offers sweeping views of the city’s sloping walls (see below).
It’s one of my favourite views and the walk there along the shoreline is lovely, you’ll pass small beaches and terraces before reaching the top! If you have booked the Game of Thrones tour or Dubrovnik City Pass, the entry fee is included – and you’ll learn a bit more about the location!
10. KAYAKING IN DUBROVNIK CROATIA! (Cool things to do in Dubrovnik old town)
Kayaking is a popular thing to do in Dubrovnik old town, a fun activity on the open water and chance to escape the bustle for a couple of hours!
The Kayak tours leave from a small bay at Pile Gate and travel close to Lokrum Island before stopping at Batina Cave for a swim and rest – you can choose either morning or sunset tours, which are the most popular.
What’s best, depends on the month you’re visiting, I went on a peaceful morning kayak tour in June to beat the midday sun, I found the pace easy-going; all you have to do is follow the leader and enjoy the scenery!
And remember to wear a long-sleeved top to go under your life jacket and sunblock, trust me the Croatian sun is the most intense out on the water! You are equipped with a dry bag so you can stash your phone and SPF!
If you fancy kayaking around the old town walls book your spot on the Kayak tour here!
11. VISIT DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN’S BANJE BEACH
Dubrovnik is surrounded by eye-catching coastline and you’ll want to spend at least a couple of hours (or if you’re like me, most of the morning) just relaxing on the beach and there are a few spots not far from Dubrovnik old town to do just that!
Banje Beach is one of them, it’s the main beach, a short stroll from Ploce Gate with fantastic views across to Lokrum Island, you’ll be blown away with your beach bed view – definitely one of the best places to relax in Dubrovnik!
I recommend getting there unfashionably early, like 10am, to snag a spot on the front row for uninterrupted sea views, this is the best way to experience it, before the crowds descend – and they do come – May and September are more tranquil times!
At Banje Beach Club, there’s also a restaurant terrace right on the sand, which is quite decent for snacks, but sunbed service is ‘elusive’ at best!
Hot travel tip! If you want to experience a more luxurious setting, try Coral Beach Club near Lapad – a ten minute drive away!
12. HAVE LUNCH AT GRADSKA KAVANA ARSENAL
The old town in Dubrovnik has no shortage of great terrace options for lunch with a view and the sea breeze, I’ve sampled many in the name of research obviously, but there’s one I’d recommend to anyone and that’s Grandska Kavana Arsenal!
This well-known restaurant sits right along the old town harbour front with an eye-catching, elegant terrace, it’s the perfect spot for watching the boats against a lovely scenic backdrop! And on the other side of the ancient building is a smaller terrace with a charming old town view!
I actually recommend this spot for a posh breakfast, they have a tiered option, which is fabulous and you can order it until 11.30am and stay for as long as you like!
For specific restaurant recommendations – from rooftop terraces to cobbled-lane favourites – head to my guide on the best restaurants in Dubrovnik.
13. STAY IN A BEAUTIFUL BOUTIQUE HOTEL
To fully experience the magic of Dubrovnik, I highly encourage you to stay within the old town walls, this is where the majority of beautiful boutique hotels are located, and there are some fantastic options!
I’ve stopped in the old town more than once, it’s perfect for shorter trips as everything is within walking distance from the restaurants to beaches, must-do activities and boat excursions that leave directly from the old town harbour!
For me, the standouts are St Josephs Boutique Hotel with elegant rooms and a beautiful breakfast terrace area right in the heart of the old town and Boutique Hotel Stari Grad known for its spectacular rooftop restaurant and beautiful rooms – this is where I last stopped!
Both hotels feature in my where to stay in Dubrovnik guide, check it out, if you’re planning a first-time visit!
14. WATCH THE SUNSET FROM A HIDDEN BAR
Along the outside of the walls there are a couple of bars, they used to be ‘hidden gems’ but now there’s a sign giving away their location, they are called ‘Buza Bars’!
They are simple (literal) hole-in-the-wall bars and are worth experiencing for sunset, but get there early to nab a seat! You can find them by following the path from the top of the Jesuit Staircase along the back of the wall with a small opening – the dazzling view of the Adriatic will make your jaw drop!
For a more elevated experience, try Fratellos Processco Bar – it’s Dubrovnik’s best kept secret with three levels, sweeping sea views and a lovely ambience! Instead of bottle-only service and fish net decor, you’ll get jazz and a selection of great cocktails! I found this gem just 10-minutes outside of Pile Gate. Do not miss it!
15. GO ON A GAME OF THRONES WALKING TOUR (If you’re a fan)
Finally, if you’re a fan of the Game of Thrones show, you will love this walking tour! I joined this tour years ago, when I’d just finished the series and as far as location tours go, it was a great one, you really feel like you’ve wandered on set!
Dubrovnik old town holds a lot of the famous scenes and filming locations, such as Cersei’s walk of shame down the stone staircase, which is actually the Jesuit Stairs near the cathedral – this one’s easy to spot, but a few other weren’t!
Taking a Game of Thrones tour will ensure you visit all the key filming locations, plus it’s a fun thing to do and you get to see some unique and scenic areas! Read about the locations and more in my Game of Thrones Tour review!
If you’re a GOT fan and are looking to spot the locations – easily, reserve your spot in the Game of Thrones Tour here!
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK
So that covers the best things to do in Dubrovnik old town, which is really the main reason for people to visit, but if you are staying longer than a day, these experiences pair perfectly with exploring the Old Town.
Related Guides In Dubrovnik
Looking for more inspiration?
- The Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik – great if you’re staying for at least 4 nights in Dubrovnik and want to explore more of the surrounding area!
- The Best Boat Tours from Dubrovnik – plan your perfect day or half day out on the water from the old town harbour!
- Game Of Thrones Tour in Review – if you’re a GOT fan you might want to spend a couple of hours exploring the locations easily with a guide!
- Explore Scenic Cavtat from Dubrovnik – discover a beautiful coastal gem 20 minutes from the old town!
TIPS FOR VISITING DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
When To Visit Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik is best explored from May to early June or mid-September, avoiding the peak season (July and August) and crowds. If you’re visiting the old town in Dubrovnik for the day, early morning or late afternoon is ideal – you’ll miss the peak cruise ship hours.
How Long To Stay In Dubrovnik
I recommend staying for a minimum of 3 days in Dubrovnik, longer if you include a day trip to the nearby islands, bays, or even national parks!
Dubrovnik City Pass
Grab the Dubrovnik City Pass, it includes the city walls walk, Fort Lovrijenac, transport, galleries and museums. It’s well worth purchasing if you’re going to be visiting these attractions, the city walls alone is €40 and the pass is €48!
Dubrovnik Old Town Dress Codes
The old town in Dubrovnik is a classy place! Walking shirtless or in swimwear through the old town is disrespectful and can even earn you a fine and some strange looks! Cover up when you’re not on the beach or a boat!
Parking In Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik Centre Parking is €24 per day or €3 per hour and is a 25-minute walk to Dubrovnik old town, this is the best and least costly option. Near Dubrovnik old town there are park and display bays at Ploce or Pile Gate from €10 per hour.
For more practical tips, check out my complete travel guide to Dubrovnik for first-time visitors here!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Staying inside Dubrovnik old town means you’ll wake up surrounded by centuries of history – cobbled lanes, baroque churches, and lively cafés right on your doorstep and there are some beautiful boutique hotel options to choose from! Here’s my favourites:
St. Joseph’s Boutique Hotel – A beautifully restored 16th-century townhouse tucked away in the Old Town. Rooms are elegant, with luxury touches like rainfall showers. Perfect if you love history with modern comfort.
The Pucic Palace – One of the most iconic Dubrovnik Old Town hotels, set in an 18th-century palace just steps from the main street, blending historic charm with refined luxury.
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad – A stylish hideaway tucked away on a quiet side street, with elegant rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace overlooking the terracotta rooftops.
For a full breakdown of luxury hotels, beach resorts and best areas, see my complete Where to Stay in Dubrovnik guide.
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!
- How To Spend 3 Days In Dubrovnik – top itinerary planning tips for Dubrovnik!
- Complete Guide To Dubrovnik – top tips & need to know for first time visitors!
- Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – the best areas, boutique hotels & luxury stays!
- Day Trips From Dubrovnik – islands, bays & heritage towns worth visiting!
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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!