20 Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik stands as a breathtaking jewel on the Adriatic coast, its ancient stone walls encircling a stunning Old Town filled with history and charm. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this Croatian city offers dramatic sea views, beautiful baroque architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploration. Discovering its beauty includes many fantastic free things to do in Dubrovnik, like wandering the marble streets or soaking in views from outside the city gates, making it accessible for all travellers.
From walking atop medieval fortifications to relaxing on scenic beaches and exploring nearby islands, Dubrovnik presents a captivating blend of experiences. This guide highlights twenty distinct ways to immerse yourself in the city’s unique spirit, covering iconic landmarks, coastal adventures, and essential cultural stops. Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of this remarkable walled city.
Exploring the Historic Old Town
Walk the Stradun (Placa): Stroll down the main thoroughfare of the Old Town, the wide limestone-paved street lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Experience the vibrant heart of the city, buzzing with activity from morning until night.
Get Lost in Old Town Alleys: Wander away from the main street into the labyrinth of narrow side streets and charming alleyways (known as ‘ulica’). Discover hidden squares, picturesque stairways, and glimpses of local life around every corner.
Dubrovnik Cathedral Visit: Step inside the city’s baroque cathedral, rebuilt after an earthquake, housing religious artifacts including the treasury with relics of St. Blaise. Admire its impressive dome and ornate interior features.
St. Blaise Church Admire: See the beautiful baroque church dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint, located prominently on the Stradun. Admire its ornate facade and step inside to appreciate the interior dedicated to St. Blaise.
Franciscan Monastery & Old Pharmacy: Visit the monastery complex housing one of the oldest functioning pharmacies in Europe, operating since 1317. Explore the peaceful cloister and the small museum showcasing historic pharmacy equipment and artifacts.
Rector’s Palace Museum: Explore the former seat of government for the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik’s historical name), a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Discover museum exhibits detailing the city’s history within its elegant state rooms.
Sponza Palace: Admire the beautiful Gothic-Renaissance palace that once served as the customs house and mint, now housing the State Archives. Appreciate its intricate stonework and lovely courtyard, a testament to the city’s rich past.
Gundulić Square Market: Browse the lively morning market held in the square dedicated to the 17th-century poet Ivan Gundulić. Find fresh local produce, fruits, honey, olive oil, and other regional products in this bustling marketplace.
Walls, Forts & Unforgettable Views
Walk the City Walls: Embark on the essential Dubrovnik experience by walking atop the magnificent medieval city walls that completely encircle the Old Town. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the red rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and Lokrum Island (allow 1.5-2 hours, entrance fee required).
Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car: Take the cable car up Mount Srđ for absolutely stunning aerial views of the Old Town, the coastline, and the surrounding islands. Visit the Imperial Fortress at the top or simply soak in the unforgettable panorama from the viewing platforms.
Explore Fort Lovrijenac (St. Lawrence Fortress): Visit the imposing fortress perched dramatically on a rock just outside the western walls, often called “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar.” Enjoy incredible views back towards the city walls and learn about its role in defending the city’s freedom.
Sunset Spotting: Find a prime location, whether atop Mount Srđ, along the City Walls (timing your walk), or at a waterfront bar outside the Ploče Gate, to watch the sun dip below the Adriatic horizon. Witnessing the sky change colors over the city is magical.
Adriatic Adventures & Relaxation
Relax at Banje Beach: Unwind on the city’s most famous pebble beach located just east of the Ploče Gate, offering fantastic views of the Old Town walls and Lokrum Island. Rent a sun lounger or simply enjoy swimming in the clear turquoise water.
Lokrum Island Trip: Take a short ferry ride to the lush, green island opposite the Old Town, a nature reserve perfect for a peaceful escape. Explore botanical gardens, swim in rocky coves or the “Dead Sea” salt lake, see peacocks roam freely, and visit the Benedictine monastery ruins.
Sea Kayaking Adventure: Paddle along the coastline beneath the city walls and around Lokrum Island on a guided sea kayaking tour. Enjoy unique perspectives of the fortifications from the water and discover hidden caves and coves for swimming stops.
Swim at Buža Bars: Find the “hole-in-the-wall” bars built into the cliffs outside the southern city walls (Buža I and Buža II). Enjoy a drink and take a refreshing dip directly into the deep blue Adriatic Sea from the rocky platforms.
Culture, Tours & Beyond the Walls
Game of Thrones Insights: Recognize famous filming locations from the popular TV series scattered throughout the Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac, and Lokrum Island. Take a specialized walking tour or simply enjoy spotting “King’s Landing” sites on your own.
War Photo Limited: Visit this impactful gallery showcasing powerful photojournalism covering conflicts from around the world, founded by a New Zealand photojournalist. The often-stark images offer moving perspectives on war and its consequences.
Explore Lapad Peninsula Beaches: Venture slightly outside the Old Town to the Lapad peninsula to find several pleasant beaches like Lapad Beach (Uvala Lapad) or Copacabana Beach. Enjoy waterfront promenades, cafes, and a more relaxed resort atmosphere.
Savor Fresh Seafood: Indulge in delicious, fresh seafood caught from the Adriatic Sea at one of Dubrovnik’s many excellent restaurants (konobas). Enjoy grilled fish, black risotto (crni rižot), or oysters prepared simply to highlight their natural flavors.
