Put on the global stage by the super hit HBO show ‘Game of Thrones’, Dubrovnik is a city of historical significance and heavenly views. Limestone pavements, secluded islands, and crystal clear waters are just a few of the things Dubrovnik has to offer. There are a whole lot of other things you can do in the city to make the most out of your trip.
This is why we have compiled a list of the 10 best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia, so let’s get started.
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1. Circle Around the City Walls
A trip to Dubrovnik without a visit to the city walls is simply incomplete. Dating back to the 13th century, these walls have stood the test of time, and even now, after hundreds of years, they are as glorious as ever. The circuit around the old town extends for 2 kilometers, offering unparalleled views of the streets below and the Adriatic Sea.
Don’t miss the chance to gaze out across the shimmering water through a cannon portal at Bokar Fortress or take in the roofscape from the Minčeta Tower, the highest point of the walls. With countless photo opportunities, history around every corner, and beautiful panoramas, a circuit along the city walls is a can’t-miss Dubrovnik highlight.
2. Witness Medieval Reliquaries
Back in the Middle Ages, relics were believed to be sacred. For this reason, human remains were carefully stored in gold-plated cases and valuable jewels. Inside the treasury adjoining Dubrovnik’s Cathedral lies a huge collection of medieval reliquaries, including the gold-plated arm, leg, and skull of Saint Blaise.
Many of these relics can trace their origins to the Byzantine Empire, some even earlier. To witness something so ancient is truly an experience of a lifetime.
3. Visit the Lokrum Island
Only 10 minutes away from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a perfect tropical escape from the city. This car-less island is only accessible by boat. Pay a small fee, get onboard, and head to the island to enjoy lush greenery and rocky beaches.
As you tread on the island, you will find nature peacocks and other animals wandering the island just like yourself. Swim in the clear blue waters or sunbathe under the Croatian sun; Lokrum Island is a peaceful spot to visit on your trip to Dubrovnik.
4. Museums of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a haven for history and art lovers, and what better way to explore both than to visit museums? Start at the Cultural History Museum, located in an old granary offering excellent exhibits on trade and seafaring. Then head over to the Dulčić Masle Pulitika Gallery and explore the works by 20th-century Croatian creatives.
Another great option is the Maritime Museum situated within St. John’s Fortress, which displays ship models, uniforms, instruments, and paintings. There are several other museums that you can visit and learn about the city’s past, with each museum offering a portal to a different era.
5. Eat Street Food
Dubrovnik isn’t only rich in history but also rich in flavors, and the best way to find that out is through its street food that serves authentic local tastes. One of the most famous local dishes is the burek’ which is a traditional pastry filled with cheese or meat that is ideal for breakfast. As you explore the city, try cevapi, a small grilled sausage in a pita perfect for a quick snack.
For carnivores who love grilled meat, Dubrovnik’s local food scene has something special in store. Behold rostilj, a variety of grilled meats cooked in local flavors and served with sides. And if you crave something sweet, munch on some fritule, small doughnuts dusted with sugar
6. Hike to the top of Mount Srd
The hike to Mount Srd may be challenging for some, but it’s absolutely worth it in the end. As you hike up the mountain, you are blessed with a heavenly view of the city and its nearby islands, with the Adriatic Sea in the backdrop.
As the hike is a little tough, make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. There’s a cable car available, too, in case you are not in the mood to climb down.
7. Go for a Kayak Tour
Dubrovnik hosts multiple guided kayak tours, taking you along the nooks and crannies of the Old Town. As you paddle along the walls and rocks, you get to witness the towering fortifications from a unique perspective. Seeing the ancient walls from your kayak, with the clear blue water below, is truly worth experiencing.
Depending upon the tour you opt for, you may also get to experience Lorkum Island and other caves that are not accessible by land. And you don’t have to be an expert at kayaking to join the tour. The tours cater to all levels, from newbie to expert.
8. Discover Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik Old Town is characterized by the tall fortified walls that encompass it. Within the walls lie rich history and culture preserved for thousands of years. Visitors can enter the old town through the Pile gate, which follows Stradun Street, to explore the area and its delicacies.
The highlights of the old town include the Rector’s Palace and the Sponza Palace, which have unique Gothic and Renaissance-influenced architecture.
9. Relax at the Beaches
The beaches in Dubrovnik are a great way to unwind. Banje Beach is the most popular beach in the city, where you can just chill out and enjoy the sun. It is close to the Old Town and is easily accessible. However, Banje Beach can be a bit crowded, depending on the time of year you’re visiting.
Beaches in Dubrovnik can get pretty busy in the summer, so getting there early to find a good spot is a good idea. Just bring a towel and some sunscreen, and enjoy a laid-back day by the sea.
10. Ride Cable Car
Last but not least, conclude your trip to Dubrovnik with a cable car ride. The station is only a few minutes walk from the Old Town, and by paying a small fee, you can ride to the top of Mount Srd for scenic views. As the cable ride ascends, the view encompassing the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic Sea grows increasingly beautiful.
However, keep in mind that the cable car is a popular attraction and is very crowded in the peak tourist season. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check the operating times beforehand and go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.
Video Guide: 10 Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik
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Travel Resources for Planning a Trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia
To make planning a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and more best things to do in Dubrovnik.
Flights:
Agoda: Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.
CheapOAir: You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!
Kiwi.com: What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “Nomad” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.
JetRadar: You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.
Hotels:
Agoda: Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.
Hotellook: They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.
Transportations:
Airport Transfers: KiwiTaxi, Viator
Train: EuRail, Trainline or RailEurope
Bus: Flixbus: Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.
Car Rentals: AutoEurope, EconomyBookings, or GetTransfer (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)
Bike Rental: BikesBooking (Bikes & scooter rentals)
Transportation Comparison: Omio (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)
Tours & Activities:
TakeWalks (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.
Tiqets: Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.
Musement: They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.
GetYourGuide: A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities
Viator: The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportation and transfer options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.
Need help planning a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia?
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