Last updated on December 9th, 2025 at 03:58 pm
Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering where to stay in Dubrovnik? You’re in the right place!
Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is a beautiful coastal city to explore for a few days to a week-long relaxing holiday, there’s plenty of heritage sites, restaurants, islands and beaches to enjoy!
While Dubrovnik’s old town is the main area and a great location to stay for first-time visitors, there are plenty of other spots equally as attractive that also offer incredible accommodation options – and stunning balcony views, including my all-time favourite place to stay – Boutique Hotel Stari Grad!
In this post, I’ll share my pick of the best places to stay, from the nicest boutiques to luxury hotels and incredible apartments – all centred in the most sought-after and convenient locations to enhance your visit!!
I’ve made countless trips to Dubrovnik, so I know a thing or two about the best areas to stay in Dubrovnik, plus the top accommodation options in those areas!!
Here’s where to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for your first visit!
3 Best Hotels In Dubrovnik
Short on time? Here’s my top hotel picks!
- BOUTIQUE HOTEL STARI GRAD – best boutique hotel UNESCO location, rooftop terrace!
- HOTEL EXCELSIOR – iconic 5-star elegant hotel in Dubrovnik’s riviera!
- VILLA DUBROVNIK – stylish hotel next to Dubrovnik old town with pool!
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is Croatia’s main city with an incredible UNESCO walled old town and the whole area is more sprawling than you might think at first glance, it includes many suburbs and beaches!
For first-time visitors, the best areas to stay in Dubrovnik include the Old Town, Pile and Ploce, they are all attractive places, convenient and within walking distance to all the main highlights – here’s where you’ll get your postcard-perfect images of Dubrovnik!
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – At A Glance
OLD TOWN
Dubrovnik’s main hub, a central historic location within the old town walls, bustling, pedestrianised, history, cafes, and restaurants.
PLOCE
Upscale area, luxury hotels, spectacular old town and Adriatic views, great for couples, just a 5-10 minute walk to the old town – my favourite spot!!
PILE
Historic and tranquil seafront spot next to the old town, views of Lovrijenac Fortress and a two-minute walk to the centre of the old town, best for shorter stays.
LAPAD & BABIN KUK
Best for a beach break, resort-style hotels, great for a relaxing stay and for families while being a 15-25 minute drive to central Dubrovnik.
OLD TOWN DUBROVNIK
Best Place In Dubrovnik Croatia To Stay For First-Time Vistors
Easily identifiable, the picture-perfect UNESCO historic old town is the heart and soul of Dubrovnik, surrounded by medieval walls, mountains and the Adriatic Sea.
This is the place in Dubrovnik that travellers come to see, it’s full of character, traditional stone buildings, atmosphere and boasts many major attractions like Rector’s Palace as well as top restaurants, cafés and entire terrace-lined streets.
As a walled city, this area is pedestrianised and also extremely walkable, but bear in mind that as the most popular place in Dubrovnik, it is much busier than everywhere else!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, a stylish 16th-century historic boutique offering a stunning breakfast from the rooftop terrace with views over the old town! All 9 suites are very high-end and feature light wood and marble details with classic and modern furnishings – a wonderful central stay. I can definitely recommend it based on my experience.
Bota Palace Suites
Bota Palace Suites is right in the atmospheric old town, it’s perfectly located and renovated to an incredible standard – a mix of old town stone and style! Note, it isn’t a hotel, but well-managed independent suites. It’s perfect for independent travellers who just want a lovely space to come back to! I’ve previously stopped for two nights in the beautiful deluxe room – bathrooms are fab!
The Pucic Palace Hotel
The Pucic Palace Hotel is an elegant five-star hotel, a former Baroque Palace with heritage furnishings, wooden beams, stone walls, balcony views and top amenities throughout! It’s the best luxury hotel option inside the old town walls and is ideal for those interested in staying somewhere historic overlooking Stradun Promenade!
Scalini Palace Hotel
Scalini Palace Hotel is a mid-range boutique set within a charming location in the old town and boasts great rooftop views, atmosphere and lots of original features, including a cool stone staircase! I recommend booking the top-tier rooms here for balconies with amazing views over the rooftops!
Guest House Forty-Four
Guest House Forty-Four is a popular contemporary boutique with a romantic restaurant situated in the heart of the old town. It is new, and the rooms have been tastefully renovated with patios and stone wall features—the double room with a balcony is worth the splurge and constantly receives the highest reviews!
Stayeva II Apartment
Stayeva II Apartment, one of the prettiest apartments in Dubrovnik with white-washed wooden floors and blue sofas, it’s beachy and comes with a kitchenette, balcony and patio – the deluxe king room is especially lovely! Stayeva II is a great choice if you’re looking for a top-rated apartment.
PLOCE EAST GATE DUBROVNIK
Most Luxurious Area & Best Place In Dubrovnik Croatia To Stay
Ploce is the best area in Dubrovnik if you prefer to be away from the bustle and stay somewhere upscale and highly desirable with easy access to the old town!
It’s situated just east of the old town next to Ploce Gate (one of the major entry points to the old town). I love this tranquil and scenic spot because of the magnificent old town and Lokrum island view – similar to the cable car views!
You are only a ten-minute walk down the hill to Dubrovnik’s best beach – Banje and the old town harbour for island-hopping, plus all the other highlights and landmarks are walking distance as well!
A stay in Ploce is more tranquil and relaxing, while being just a stone’s throw from the action, you will have to climb stairs and steps to get to your villa-style accommodation, but the views are worth it!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK PLOCE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Villa Dubrovnik Hotel
Villa Dubrovnik, a serene cliffside setting with beautiful views, private beach access, and a lovely spa, making this a top choice for where to stay in Dubrovnik and it’s my top hotel choice!
I had the pleasure of staying here for two nights in 2023 as a celebration treat, and it was fantastic, I especially love how calm it feels and the private beach with old town views! All rooms are stylish and contemporary, offering spectacular sea views of Lokrum Island, including a terrace – don’t hesitate to book!
Hotel Exelsior
Hotel Excelsior is an iconic 5-star hotel welcoming famous guests like Elizabeth Taylor! One of the best views of Dubrovnik Old Town with Mediterranean and coastline landscapes just outside of the city walls, guests can enjoy a luxury experience including romantic waterfront dining – if you’re looking to stay at the TOP hotel in Dubrovnik, this is it!
Villa Allure Hotel
Villa Allure Of Dubrovnik, one of the more affordable luxury hotels in upmarket Ploce. Villa Allure is an attractive stone villa and just a short walk from the Old Town and the iconic Banje Beach. Enjoy the sun by the private pool terrace or unwind in the sauna!
Ragusa Seaview Apartment
Ragusa Seaview Apartment, a brand new two-bedroomed oasis in Ploce with top ‘hotel’ quality furnishings and a sunny terrace to relax and enjoy the breathtaking old town and sea views! A super stylish apartment like this is a rare find in Dubrovnik, honestly you will not want to leave it!
Ocean Apartment
Ocean Apartment, a very lovely coastal apartment, bright and light with lots of space, amenities and a wonderful terrace. It has everything you need for a comfortable stay with an incredible Lokrum Island view!
PILE GATE WEST DUBROVNIK
Best Area In Dubrovnik For Peace & Old Town Access
Pile Gate is the Northern entrance to the old town and comes with a few good attractions of its own, including Lovrijenac Fortress and a couple of hidden local beaches, not to mention some lovely views and sunsets.
It’s the best area to stay in Dubrovnik for peace and quiet away from the main crowds, while being just a 10-minute walk away from the historic centre – it’s very convenient!
One of my favourite things about this area is the upscale restaurants and terraces right along the seafront – they are hidden gems and a great way to spend your evening!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK PILE GATE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Palace Natali Hotel
Palace Natali, an incredible former summer home of the aristocratic Natali family in the 16th century, offers guests the opportunity to enjoy this lovely property and gardens with views across Dubrovnik and the islands.
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile is a romantic boutique hotel with a Mediterranean-style garden overlooking Dubrovnik Old Town to relax. Each room is charming, spacious and newly renovated, the decor throughout is very tasteful!
Hilton Imperial Hotel
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, an eye-catching hotel just outside the city walls with heritage details and plush interior styling with modern touches. You will love the gorgeous lobby and indoor pool with a glass-dome roof – it’s a real highlight!
Sea Rocks Residence
Sea Rocks Residence, is situated in a fantastic, peaceful location in Pile area overlooking the waterfront and the historic Fort – certainly a unique place to stay! All rooms are individually decorated and spacious, it’s fab for independent trips!
LAPAD & BABIN KUK
Best Area In Dubrovnik Croatia For Beaches & Resorts
Lapad and Babin Kuk’s coastal peninsula offers a beach alternative to Dubrovnik’s old town. This area has pebble beaches, rugged terrain, cycle tracks and several upmarket resorts to relax.
In Lapad, you’ll find more restaurants in the area, but in my opinion, it’s better to stay in a beautiful resort hotel and benefit from the amenities, sea-view pools and balconies – and private terraces and beaches – especially great for families!
One of the best things is that you’ll be a short distance to two of my favourite beach clubs; Coral Bay and Copacabana, they reside in the most stunning bays!!
You can reach the old town in 20-25 minutes by car, and some of the resorts offer shuttles making it a great choice for balancing a scenic beach break with a historic town!
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LAPAD & BABIN KUK
Luxury hotels and resorts in Dubrovnik’s coastal hotspots!
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is set on a spectacular cliff, this 5-star sprawling hotel has wonderful sea views across Lapad Bay. Enjoy the contemporary design, beach restaurant, pool and luxury amenities while being just a 15-minute walk from Dubrovnik’s old town.
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, a luxurious hotel with panoramic views across the Adriatic – halfway between Pile Gate and Lapad! Light-filled rooms are generous and feature floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies and you’ll love the indoor and outdoor pool, lounge bar, and Japanese restaurant.
President Hotel
President Hotel offers a prime beachfront location with private sunbeds, a sunny pool, restaurant and lovely outdoor lounging areas! A top resort and tranquil haven near Lapad Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the spa!
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, an elegant and modern resort with neutral tones and fantastic spaces throughout – and the views overlooking the Elafiti Islands are beautiful! Dubrovnik Palace also offers two pools, a rooftop spa, and a dive center, and all rooms features sea views and a balcony.
Valamar Argosy Hotel
Valamar Argosy Hotel, a beautiful hotel with two sea-facing pools and stylish areas where you can enjoy the island views! The Mediterranean restaurant is particularly chic, and you are within walking distance to two upmarket beaches – Coral Beach Club and Copacabana Beach near Babin Kuk!
THE BEST VILLAS IN DUBROVNIK
Luxury Villas For Groups!
Villa Lapisa
Villa Lapisa, situated within the old town walls offers three bedrooms and a lovely balcony with views over the orange rooftops! Newly renovated to an extremely high standard, guests can enjoy the sauna and relax in the old town!
Villa Inside The Old Town
Villa Inside The Old Town is a rare find, offering stunning rooftop terrace views and a stylish seating area. This classic and elegant two-bedroom, two-bath villa is perfect for small groups looking for a quality stay in Dubrovnik and more space!
Villa Paulina
Villa Paulina, a stunning six-bedroomed villa in Ploce with a pool overlooking Lokrum Island! Villa Paulina is modern and has all the amenities for an independent stay and you are only a 5-minute walk to the best beach and close to the old town!
Villa T Dubrovnik
Villa T Dubrovnik is ideal for groups, this six-bedroomed villa in idyllic Ploce comes with a spa, sea-facing infinity pool, terrace, bar and lounging area and a hot spring bath! It really has everything you could possibly want for a wonderful luxury stay with epic views to match!
Note: If you are planning a trip to Dubrovnik Croatia for summer (June, July, August), I highly recommend booking your accommodation as early as possible! The most popular places to stay in Dubrovnik can be booked up months in advance!
SUMMARY OF THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK!
Here’s a quick summary for where to stay in Dubrovnik, the below accommodation options are my absolute top picks – where I’ve stayed or visited!
BEST HOTEL | Villa Dubrovnik
BEST BOUTIQUE HOTEL | Hotel Stari Grad
DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN | Bota Palace Suites
BEST SEAVIEW APARTMENT | Ragusa Seaview
AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOTEL | Villa Allure
LAPAD & BABIN KUK | Hotel Bellevue
Once you’ve chosen your perfect place to stay, it’s time to start planning your itinerary. From walking the city walls to lazy afternoons at chic beach clubs, there are so many things to see and do in Dubrovnik – and I’ve put together a full guide to help you make the most of your trip!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK TIPS!
WHEN TO VISIT DUBROVNIK
For the best experience, great weather and fewer crowds consider visiting Dubrovnik in the shoulder season; May and late September to early October. May is my favourite month as the evenings are lighter and the beaches etc. are just opening up!
HOW MANY DAYS
I recommend staying in Dubrovnik for at least 3 full days or 5 days for a more relaxing time and to visit the nearby beaches, islands and go on an epic day trip – there’s a lot of things to see and do in Dubrovnik! Check out how to spend 3 days in Dubrovnik here!
BOOK HOTELS EARLY
Boutique hotels in Dubrovnik have fewer rooms (some at little as 4 suites!) and these sort-after hotels fill up fast! I highly recommend securing your favourite hotel in advance – at least a few weeks to check availability!
HOTEL EXPECTATIONS
In the old town of Dubrovnik, the rooms are often small in size and feature original beams and stone walls, be aware that apartments and villa’s could have a room or bedroom in the rooftop! If you’re looking for more space consider staying outside of the old town walls.
TRUSTED BOOKING APPS
Use official platforms for reservations and bookings for Dubrovnik, the websites that I use are booking.com for hotels Viator for the best day trips and experiences. Each has its own flexible booking and refundable options and offers!
DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
If you’re not already aware, Dubrovnik old town and most of Pile area are pedestrianised. If you are travelling with a car you will have to find another location to park, also you will have to walk with your luggage to your accommodation from outside the walls!
GETTING AROUND
Dubrovnik old town, Pile and Ploce are very walkable areas and they follow on from each other! For further afield excursions, you can get boats from Dubrovnik’s old town harbour, the bus outside of Pile Gate or the Cable car entry and taxis are available in both spots too!
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK FAQ
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for first-timers?
If it’s your first visit to Dubrovnik, the ideal place to stay is in the old town or within walking distance to the old town, such as Pile or Ploce. It’s more convenient as the main highlights are located here and you can then walk everywhere!
How many days is enough to see Dubrovnik?
I recommend 5-7 days to explore the old town thoroughly, including taking in the views of Mount Hum and the historic walls and visiting the beaches and nearby islands, which are stunning – especially Cavtat, Coral Bay, Lokrum and Boka!
Which area of Dubrovnik is best to stay in?
The best area to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia is Ploce, it’s very desirable with Mediterranean and old town landscapes and it’s where you’ll find some of the best accommodation, such as stunning Villa Dubrovnik!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik with a family?
Lapad Bay or Babin Kuk are both excellent spots for where to stay in Dubrovnik with a family, the hotels here are more resort style with pools, amenities and beaches nearby – plus there’s fewer staircases!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for beach holidays?
The best areas to stay in Dubrovnik for beach holidays include Lapad, Babin Kuk and the peninsular of Dubrovnik, such as Jakov Beach. My favourite beach is the pretty Coral Bay and same-named beach club.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for nightlife?
The nightlife in Dubrovnik is pretty low-key; it is mainly centred around enjoying good food on rooftop terraces or within the atmospheric old town streets – this is where you’ll also find a great selection of wine bars, such as D’Vino.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik with a car?
If you have a car, the old town is not an ideal place to stay in Dubrovnik, instead, I recommend staying in Ploce, Cavtat, Lapad or Babin Kuk, hotels in these spots offer car parking.
Is it better to stay in Dubrovnik or Cavtat?
If this is your first visit, Dubrovnik is going to be a more convenient area to stay as a lot of main things to see and do are concentrated in this area. Cavtat is gorgeous and makes a perfect day trip or second stay if you have more time!
Is it better to stay in Lapad or old town Dubrovnik?
Old Town Dubrovnik is the main attraction and Lapad is around a 45-minute to an hour’s walk from Pile Gate. Lapad has more resort style hotels, however, you’ll miss the atmospheric streets and stunning views of the old town – opt for Ploce, which is a better alternative.
WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK: FINAL THOUGHTS
I hope this guide on where to stay in Dubrovnik has left you feeling a little more prepared for your trip! As you can see, there are some great options and locations to consider, including the Old Town – the heart of the action, upmarket Ploce or charming Pile!
While you really can’t go wrong with any of the areas mentioned in this post, it’s important to consider your priorities before choosing where to stay in Dubrovnik. Are you looking for fantastic amenities or just a lovely suite or spacious apartment? Whichever you decide, you are guaranteed to fall in love with Dubrovnik!
Now that you’ve found the perfect place to stay, check out my guide to the best things to see and do in Dubrovnik.
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Plan your Dubrovnik, Croatia itinerary!
Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, and tours for travel in Dubrovnik Croatia!
- Booking.com for the best boutique rates
- Get Your Guide for unique day excursions
- Viator for incredible day tours
- Discover Cars reliable and best rates on rental cars
Read Next:
- The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Dubrovnik 2026!
- 15 Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik Old Town 2026 Guide
- Top Things To Do In Dubrovnik Croatia (Beyond The City Walls)
- How To Spend 3 Days In Dubrovnik: The BEST Dubrovnik Itinerary!
- 7 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik Croatia, You’ll Love!
- 7 Top Dubrovnik Boat Tours (From Elafiti Islands & Beyond!)
- Dubrovnik Game Of Thrones Tour: Is It Worth It? (2026 Guide!)
- Dubrovnik Travel Guide: Where To Eat, Drink & Relax
- A Guide To The Best Restaurants In Old Town Dubrovnik
- Cavtat: A Scenic Day Trip From Dubrovnik
- How To Get From Split To Dubrovnik – A Complete Guide!
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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!