Dubrovnik, Croatia is one of Europe’s most captivating coastal cities, where medieval walls meet the glittering Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re strolling through the stone-paved alleys of Old Town or sailing to nearby islands, there are endless experiences to savor. Based on our travels, here are 10 unforgettable things to do in Dubrovnik.
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Top Experiences and Attractions in Dubrovnik
1. Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls
When in Dubrovnik, one absolute must-do is walking the full loop along the famous Dubrovnik city walls. Stretching nearly 2 kilometers, the walls offer stunning views of red rooftops, the deep blue sea, and nearby Lokrum Island. Try to visit early in the morning or just before sunset for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
2. Explore Dubrovnik Old Town
Inside the walls, Dubrovnik Old Town is a labyrinth of polished stone streets, baroque churches, and charming cafes. Wander past Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery. Don’t miss the Jesuit Staircase, recognizable to Game of Thrones fans. At night, the Old Town transforms into a romantic, lantern-lit wonderland.
3. Take a Day Trip from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands
One of our favorite memories was a private boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands. Swim in sea caves, enjoy a beachside lunch on Lopud, and explore the magical blue cave near Kolocep. This makes for an incredible day tour from Dubrovnik, especially in summer.
4. Ride the Cable Car to Mount Srd
For panoramic views over Dubrovnik, Croatia and the surrounding coastline, hop on the cable car up Mount Srd. The view from the top is breathtaking, especially at sunset. There’s a small war museum and a restaurant with a view at the summit. Plus, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can soar down from the top on a zipline!
5. Visit Fort Lovrijenac
Just outside the city walls sits Fort Lovrijenac, a dramatic fortress perched on a cliff. It was once Dubrovnik’s first line of defense, and today offers gorgeous views of the Old Town and sea. It’s also a filming location for Game of Thrones, doubling as the Red Keep.
6. Watch the Sunset at Buza Bar
For drinks with a view, head to Buza Bar—a cliffside bar with unmatched sunset vibes. It’s tucked into the outer walls of the city, with direct views of the horizon. Grab a cold drink and watch the sky light up in pinks and golds.
7. Visit Lokrum Island
Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town, Lokrum is a perfect half-day escape. Hike to the ruins of a monastery, float in the island’s salt lake, and visit the botanical garden. There are also plenty of peacocks roaming the grounds!
8. Discover the Cave Bar More
Hidden beneath Hotel More, Cave Bar More is carved directly into a seaside cave. It’s one of the most unique places for a cocktail in Dubrovnik. The ambient lighting and cool air make it a relaxing stop after a hot day exploring the city.
9. Sea Kayak Around the City Walls
Sea kayaking tours from Dubrovnik offer a unique vantage point of the city walls from the water. Many tours include a stop at Betina Cave Beach and offer snorkeling opportunities. It’s a fun and active way to explore the coastline.
10. Join a Game of Thrones Tour
For fans of the show, there are several fun Game of Thrones walking tours that explore filming locations around the city. You’ll visit iconic scenes from King’s Landing, Fort Lovrijenac, and the Walk of Shame stairs—while learning a bit more about Dubrovnik’s real history, too.
Planning Your Visit to Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is best enjoyed over 2-3 days, giving you enough time to explore the Old Town, walk the Dubrovnik walls, and take a day trip from Dubrovnik to nearby islands. If you’re short on time, day tours from Dubrovnik can help you see more in less time.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your entire trip, don’t miss our full 8-day Croatia itinerary, which includes highlights from Split, Hvar, and Plitvice Lakes. You can also check out our guide to the best places to stay in Dubrovnik for recommendations on where to base yourself during your stay.
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