15 Unmissable Experiences in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Croatia’s top destination, Dubrovnik’s diminutive old town lies within sturdy medieval fortifications, overlooking the deep blue Adriatic. Historical attractions in the old town include noble Baroque buildings, museums, and galleries. Moreover, beyond the walls are exhilarating beaches, captivating islands, and a glorious coastline to discover.
1. Walk a Complete Circuit of the City Walls
Of all the things to do in Dubrovnik, the absolute unmissable experience is a walk around the battlements of the medieval city walls. A complete 2km (1.25 mile) circuit reveals fantastic views over the old town’s terracotta rooftops and out to sea. Originally built in the 13th century, the walls protected the city – formerly known as Ragusa – from the outside world. At night, the two entrances into the city were locked to prevent intruders from entering.
When the Balkan peninsula faced threats from the Ottoman Turks in the 15th century, the walls were further reinforced with sturdy towers and bastions, which included around 120 cannons. The main access to the battlements is situated just off the Pile Gate. In summer, daily visitors are limited to prevent overcrowding. If you’re lucky enough to be here in winter, the walls might just be yours to enjoy all alone.
Local tip: Dubrovnik was caught in the crosshairs of the war that followed Croatia’s declaration of independence in 1991. Today, the town walls are once again intact, welcoming all with the gleaming restoration carried out by an international brigade of specially trained stonemasons.
2. Drink Morning Coffee on the Stradun
Drinking coffee is a beloved morning ritual in Dalmatia. In Dubrovnik, the place to do it is the Stradun (aka Placa). This 300m-long (984ft) white limestone-paved promenade links Pile Gate and Ploče Gate. The 17th-century Baroque stone buildings that flank the Stradun host small shops and open-air cafes at street level, making it a delightful spot where locals sip their coffee while reading the morning newspapers and watching the world pass by.
Local tip: The entire old town is a pedestrian area, with good public transport. Parking can be costly, so it’s better to walk or use public transit to navigate the area.
3. See How Local Aristocrats Once Lived at the Rector’s Palace
Until 1808, Dubrovnik was a tiny but sophisticated self-governing republic known as Ragusa. Each month, local councilors would select a different citizen to serve as Rector, ensuring no single person held too much power. The Upper Floor of the 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance Rector’s Palace now houses the Cultural History Museum, showcasing life as it was for aristocrats, complete with Baroque furniture, gilt-framed paintings, and lavish costumes.
Don’t miss the entrance to the former meeting rooms of the Great Council and Senate, where a plaque notes, Obliti privatorum publica curate (Forget private affairs, and focus on public matters). Here, visitors can also see a prison cell and a chapel.
4. Encounter Adriatic Marine Life at the Aquarium
Below the Maritime Museum, located on the ground floor of St John’s Fortress, lies the aquarium. This calm space offers respite from the hot summer sun while displaying a vast array of Adriatic underwater life in 31 fresh seawater tanks. Visitors often enjoy observing seahorses, conger eels, starfish, and more. After your visit, treat yourself to homemade ice cream or traditional Dubrovnik pastries at a local shop nearby.
5. Taste Raw Oysters at Bota Oyster & Sushi Bar
For centuries, oyster enthusiasts in Dubrovnik have relished the succulent gems from Mali Ston Bay on the Pelješac peninsula. You can enjoy these delicacies right in the heart of Dubrovnik. The owner of Bota Oyster & Sushi Bar cultivates oysters in Ston and brings them into town fresh each morning. These oysters, sometimes believed to be powerful aphrodisiacs, are served on crushed ice, with a wedge of lemon. For those less keen on the taste, tempura oysters offer a delightful alternative.
6. See Medieval Golden Reliquaries at the Treasury
In the Middle Ages, relics were believed to have divine power. The treasury adjoining Dubrovnik Cathedral displays a horde of 138 gold and silver reliquaries, featuring the skull of St Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint, encased in a golden crown. Many of these artifacts come from the Byzantine Empire, brought back by local seafarers from their voyages.
7. Shop for Quirky Designer Gifts at KAWA
Just outside Ploče Gate, KAWA is a concept store offering unique clothing items by young Croatian designers. You can also find jewelry, ceramics, nicely packaged cosmetics, and locally produced olive oil. This store is perfect for those looking to purchase authentic gifts while supporting local talent.
8. Watch the Sunset Over a Drink at Buža Bar
On the rocks high above the sea, you’ll find two open-air bars known as Buža, both of which provide stunning views over the Adriatic. The atmosphere is informal and fun, with tables shaded by large parasols. While the drink choices are limited to beer and wine (cash only), the breathtaking views are their own kind of magic. Enjoy a morning swim or unwind as you watch the sunset unfold across the sky.
9. Discover 20th-Century Yugoslav Design at the Red History Museum
Opened in 2019, this unique museum showcases life in Croatia during the Socialist Yugoslavia era (1945-1991). Visitors can explore rooms representative of a typical 1970s apartment, filled with retro furniture and engaging memorabilia. The museum also references the more serious aspects of the era, such as the secret police and political imprisonment.
10. Buy Natural Cosmetics at the Franciscan Monastery Pharmacy
The Franciscan Monastery, entered from the Stradun, centers around a 14th-century cloister with a garden of palms and citrus trees. One of Europe’s first pharmacies was founded here in 1317 by the monks. Nowadays, the pharmacy remains stocked with a selection of natural hydrating creams based on traditional recipes, prepared by the resident monks.
11. Learn About Dubrovnik Sea Power at the Maritime Museum
Dubrovnik enjoyed its Golden Age in the 16th century when its wealth stemmed from shipping and trading. The Maritime Museum located in St John’s Fortress provides insight into Dubrovnik’s former naval prowess through exhibits of model ships, maps, navigational equipment, and sailors’ uniforms.
12. Reflect on the Horror of Conflict at War Photo Ltd
Dubrovnik understands the devastation of war, having faced an eight-month siege from 1991-1992. At War Photo Ltd, visitors can view poignant photography documenting life during the conflicts in Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Kosovo. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring photojournalism from war zones around the world.
13. Paddle to Lokrum Island by Sea Kayak
The tiny island of Lokrum lies merely a 10-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s old harbor. However, a more memorable journey can be made by joining a sea kayaking tour. Paddle around Dubrovnik’s fortifications before heading to Lokrum for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. The island also features an abandoned 11th-century Benedictine Monastery and is rich with mythology.
14. Hike Up Mt Srđ for a Panoramic Picnic Overlooking Dubrovnik
One of the most picturesque views of Dubrovnik is from Mt Srđ, which rises directly behind the old town. You can arrange for a picnic lunch prepared by local services. Then, take a two-kilometer hike up the hillside path or opt for a cable car ride. At the peak, enjoy stunning vistas of the town and the Adriatic Sea.
15. Swim and Sunbathe at Šunj Beach on Lopud Island
Šunj beach, located on Lopud island, offers a rare sandy beach experience in Dalmatia. After taking a ferry from Gruž port, visitors can enjoy the palm-lined promenade leading to this stunning bay. Play in the warm, shallow sea, relax with seasonal snacks and drinks, and soak up the sun in this idyllic setting.
This article was first published May 20, 2022, and updated November 21, 2023.
