Last updated on May 7th, 2026 at 01:21 am
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 firsthand because this is the coastal city in Croatia where I have 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 been to – I love breakfasting on the terrace surrounded by history, romantic rooftops and staying in wonderful boutique hotels like Stari Grad, but that’s not the only spot, there’s also Ploce and Pile offering stunning coastline vistas!
I’ve stopped in all three locations, and each offers the kind of Dubrovnik accommodation you hoped to find, from heritage-listed boutiques within the ancient walls to serene apartments and luxury hotels with epic terraces – and below I’m sharing my top picks!!
Quick Picks: Best Hotels In Dubrovnik
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!
- Villa Allure – great value boutique with rooftop pool & views!
- 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
The Old Town is the iconic location in Dubrovnik, known for its heritage, charm and boutique hotels and just outside, there are stunning sea view villa-style hotels with pools, which offer a more tranquil experience – and for most visitors, this is the best place to stay!
Lapad and Babin Kuk are the beach areas, 15 minutes by car from Dubrovnik Old Town, these spots are usually reserved for those looking for a more traditional resort holiday, so it’s best to decide early on what kind of vibe you’re after!
When planning where to stay in Dubrovnik, I recommend focusing on the Old Town, Ploce and Pile, which are the most convenient, attractive and walkable areas, near the main attractions, scenery and historic landmarks – it’s where you will spend the majority of your time!
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik – At A Glance
Old Town – (UNESCO)
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! Stay: Boutique Hotel Stari Grad
Ploce
Polce is an upscale ‘Riviera’ with boutique and luxury hotels, sea-facing pools, Mediterranean settings, Banje Beach and spectacular Old Town and Adriatic views, great for couples, just a 10-minute walk to Dubrovnik Old Town harbour – it’s my favourite spot!! Stay: Villa Allure
Pile
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 10-minute walk to the centre of town, best for sea views and quiet convenience. Stay: Palace Natalie
Lapad
Lapad is an upmarket beach area with resort-style accommodation in Dubrovnik, featuring larger pools and more amenities, ideal for families and longer stays – a 15-35 minute walk to Dubrovnik Old Town. Stay: Rixos Premium
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK CROATIA
OLD TOWN DUBROVNIK
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for first-time visitors, restaurants & attractions!
Dubrovnik Old Town is picture-perfect, and the historic centre is full of old-world charm, cobbled streets, upscale restaurants and architectural gems, including the cathedral, palaces, and a monastery, making it the best place to stay in Dubrovnik for first-time visitors!
As well as being surrounded by beautiful buildings, you’ll be a short stroll from walking the walls, taking the cable car for epic panoramic views or hopping on boat trips from Dubrovnik’s pretty old town harbour to secret islands and beaches!
The UNESCO historic centre is what visitors come to see, so while the mornings are tranquil, by lunchtime, the main thoroughfare is bustling with day trippers in peak season. But there’s bags of atmosphere, especially in the evenings with romantic lantern-lit lanes and cosy wine bars!
And the best thing about it is that the area is fully pedestrianised, and boasts incredible boutique hotels, including Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, the one to book for style, ambience, and convenience!
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, with a lovely ambience, plush interiors and a stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the historic rooftops. If available, grab 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 original stone walls! I’ve visited for breakfast on the charming square and it’s easily one of my favourite experiences!
Scalini Palace Hotel
Scalini Palace Hotel is a great-value boutique hotel set within a charming location in the Old Town, featuring authentic interiors! I recommend booking the balcony rooms with fantastic views over the rooftops!
7 Oaks Noble House
7 Oaks Noble House is situated in a lovely part of the old town and offers a range of elegant rooms all decorated with high spec furnishings, and there’s rituals products in the bathrooms. For more space, I recommend the junior suite, which is very reasonably priced!
Bota Palace
Bota Palace offers a beautiful selection of affordable luxury suites along a charming cobbled street in the historic centre, boasting larger-than-average rooms and quality furnishings, making it one of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town!
Olive Luxury Room
Olive Luxury Room is a gorgeous, 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 lovely room and a great location – this is one of the best interiors I’ve seen – super attractive! If it’s available book it!
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!
Ploce is the best place to stay in Dubrovnik for luxury villa-style accommodation and stunning views, a wonderful location for relaxing by the sea while being just a few minutes’ walk to the Old Town’s dramatic eastern entry point, beautiful harbour and the iconic Banje beach.
It’s known as the Dubrovnik Riviera, where you’ll see those beautiful panoramas across the orange rooftops and turquoise sea, not to mention the best sunsets and, naturally, some of the top hotels in Dubrovnik, like the bucket list Hotel Excelsior, are located right along the shoreline!
And not only is the setting stunning, Ploce is also ideal for those looking for a tranquil and convenient area to stay in Dubrovnik in between exploring, with private sun-lounging, sunny sea-facing balconies and pools to cool off on a hot summer’s day!
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’ve visited for drinks and sunset on the terrace, and loved the relaxed ambience, style and location, it’s the perfect spot for summer!
Villa Allure Hotel
Villa Allure Of Dubrovnik is a gorgeous traditional stone, affordable luxury boutique hotel with a private rooftop pool and views across the water and old town, a popular choice for couples – the Premium Double Room with sea view is well worth the upgrade!
Villa Dubrovnik Hotel
Villa Dubrovnik, a modern seafront hotel just a few minutes from the historic centre, offering designer rooms and a beautiful private coastal setting with top sun lounging areas and a lovely spa, ideal for more tranquil stays and those who love minimalist luxury!
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!
Ragusa Seaview Apartment
Ragusa Seaview Apartment is a brand new modern apartment in Ploce, boasting quality furnishings and a sunny terrace to relax and enjoy breathtaking views – a perfect independent place to stay in Dubrovnik if you’re after privacy and quiet luxury!
PILE GATE WEST DUBROVNIK
Best place to stay in Dubrovnik Croatia for quiet charm & Old Town access!
Pile sits at the Western entrance to Dubrovnik Old Town and offers a few good attractions and waterfront restaurants of its own, including theLovrijenac Fortress viewpoint and a couple of hidden local beaches, not to mention lovely sea views and 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 – it’s super convenient and also a great experience!
While not overrun with accommodation, there are a couple of fantastic boutique hotel options here with gorgeous Mediterranean garden settings and sea views, like idyllic Palace Natali boutique hotel, a wonderful place to stay in Dubrovnik!
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. If available, book the Garden Double Room with terrace – it’s beautiful.
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile
Boutique Heritage Villa Nobile is a romantic 4-star 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, I thought the atmosphere was fantastic!
Sea Rocks Residence – private suites
Sea Rocks Residence offers authentic boutique-style 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 the place for beaches and luxury resorts, it’s the best area to stay in Dubrovnik for longer stays with pools and fantastic sea views, which is what you’ll find at Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, the best hotel in this area, offering top amenities and a short drive from the heritage town!
It’s a great option for the summer months, where you might want to spend a few hours by the waters edge or pool on a hot afternoon, and there are also two stunning beach clubs situated in scenic bays, Coral Bay and Cococabana!
Dubrovnik’s luxury resorts are far removed from cosy taverns and small boutiques, but perfect for those who prefer to split their time between relaxing and sightseeing around Dubrovnik Old Town or islands, 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. For the best experience, book the Spa Suite with sea view
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is one of the best 5-star hotels in Dubrovnik, set on a cliff top, boasting wonderful views across a beautiful bay, with modern interiors, a beach restaurant, 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!
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, is situated on Lapad’s private 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!
Summary Of The Best Places To Stay In Dubrovnik Croatia!
Here’s a quick summary of where to stay in Dubrovnik, the options below are my absolute top picks – where I’ve stayed or visited!
- Best Luxury Hotels In Dubrovnik
- Best Boutique Hotels In Dubrovnik
- Best Mid-range Hotels In Dubrovnik
- Best Apartments In Dubrovnik
- Best Beach Hotels In Dubrovnik
What is the best area to stay in Dubrovnik overall?
The best area to stay in Dubrovnik is the Old Town, 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 sights! It’s ideal!
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 a top hotel choice, 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 or mid-September. Personally, I prefer the beginning of summer, (late) May is the best month 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 Inside 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!
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 with a stunning pool, terrace and views! While in the heart of Dubrovnik Old Town, there’s Stari Grad Boutique, a charming and stylish hotel with beautiful interiors and a rooftop terrace to die for!
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 is a fountain of information!
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!
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!
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Where To Stay In Dubrovnik Croatia: Best Areas & Boutique Hotels – Travel Guide! | Pin For Later
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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!