7 Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you are planning a trip to Croatia and wondering about the best things to do in Dubrovnik, this Dubrovnik travel guide covers everything you need to know. From walking ancient city walls to island hopping and Game of Thrones filming locations, this is a city that feels like stepping onto a film set.

Visiting Dubrovnik has been one of my favourite trips this year. There is something about the terracotta rooftops, the Adriatic shimmering below, and the golden light bouncing off limestone streets that makes it unforgettable.

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, here’s my guide to exactly how I would plan it.

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Why visit Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik sits on Croatia’s southern Dalmatian Coast, surrounded by medieval walls and backed by mountains. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

It is perfect for:

• A long weekend city break
• A Croatia island hopping itinerary
• A romantic getaway
• A Game of Thrones pilgrimage
• A luxury Adriatic escape

7 best things to do in Dubrovnik

1. Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car

This was my favourite thing to do in Dubrovnik. Take the cable car up Mount Srđ for panoramic views over Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.

At the top you will find:

• The Panorama Restaurant & Bar
• The Museum of the Croatian War of Independence

The views are honestly breathtaking. Seeing the city walls from above gives you a completely different perspective of the city. I highly recommend stopping for a drink or food at Panorama Restaurant to just soak in the view.

Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
Tip: Go just before sunset for golden hour views.

2. Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls

When it comes to what to see in Dubrovnik, the Dubrovnik City Walls are the highlight of any visit, giving you panoramic views of the city and coast. The full circuit is about 2 km and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

You will pass:

• Fort Bokar
• Minčeta Tower
• Terracotta rooftops and hidden courtyards

Walking these ancient fortifications really brings the history of the city to life and is definitely one of the best activities in Dubrovnik.

Entry fee: Around €35
Best time: 8 am opening to avoid crowds

3. Explore Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik Old Town is compact and incredibly walkable and with so many places to visit in Dubrovnik, enclosed within the city walls, it’s an easy way to see a lot in a short space of time..

Must see highlights:

• Stradun
• Onofrio’s Fountain
• Sponza Palace
• Dubrovnik Cathedral

Wandering without a plan was one of my favourite moments. Early morning, before the cruise passengers arrive, feels especially magical.

4. Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Even if you are not a huge fan, it is hard not to appreciate Dubrovnik’s role as King’s Landing in the famous Game of Thrones series.

Key Game of Thrones filming locations in Dubrovnik include:

• Jesuit Stairs
• Fort Lovrijenac
• Rector’s Palace

A guided tour adds context and behind the scenes stories.

5. Take a Boat to Lokrum Island

If you’re wondering what to do in Dubrovnik with a spare afternoon or even a whole day, Lokrum Island is a great option. Just 15 minutes by ferry, Lokrum Island feels like a peaceful escape from the busy city.

Highlights:

• Botanical gardens
• Benedictine Monastery
• The Dead Sea saltwater lake
• Peacocks roaming freely

We spent a relaxed half day here swimming and exploring. It was the perfect break from the Old Town heat.

6. Relax at Šulić Beach

Šulić Beach is a Dubrovnik hidden gem near Pile Gate.

It is small and pebbly, but the water is crystal clear and far quieter than Banje Beach.

Bring water shoes and go early for the best spot.

7. Stay at Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

During our trip we stayed at Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, just steps from Pile Gate.

Built in 1897, it is one of the oldest hotels in Dubrovnik and perfectly positioned for exploring the Old Town.

We were lucky enough to have a room with a private terrace and incredible views over the city and towards the sea. Sitting out there in the evening with the light fading over the rooftops was one of my favourite memories of the whole trip.

The hotel also has:

• An outdoor pool
• Spa and wellness facilities
• A generous breakfast
• Easy access to the main bus routes

If you want to stay close to Dubrovnik Old Town without actually staying inside the walls, this Dubrovnik hotel is ideal.

→ See rooms, prices, and availability here

Map of Dubrovnik

More things to do in Dubrovnik