Things to do in Dubrovnik
Hazel Hammond
As bewitching as it is beguiling, Dubrovnik has endless things to see and do. Affectionately known as ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’, this Croatian city is famous for its fascinating Old Town. Moving on from its battle-scarred past, Dubrovnik is now a bustling seaside city which charms with Adriatic beauty, captivates with history and indulges with culture. Dubrovnik will easily pinch the heart strings of even the most discerning traveller.
“Those who seek paradise on earth, should come to Dubrovnik” – George Bernard Shaw
We’ve put together an ultimate guide of things to do in Dubrovnik so you can make the most of your time in this magnificent city.
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Best things to do in Dubrovnik
1. Visit the Old Town
The evocative Old Town is Dubrovnik’s biggest draw. In fact, the Old Town has caught the eye of several film sets including Star Wars Episode VIII and Game of Thrones as well as several A-listers such as Beyoncé, Roman Abramovich, Sir Robert Moor & Bob Geldof (to name a few). For a guide to the Old Town read the things to do in Dubrovnik’s Old Town section of this post.
2. Take the cable car up Mount Srđ in time for sunset
Zip up to the summit of Mount Srđ and admire views of the Old Town, Adriatic Sea and beyond. On a cloudless day you can see up to 37 miles and no doubt Dubrovnik’s best sunset views can be seen from here. Tickets can be bought directly at the cable car station.
3. Kayak around the Old Town
One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is to explore the many caves and hidden beach coves. Be sure to bring a snorkel though to make the most of the clear waters. Kayaks can be hired from several places around the city and prices vary seasonally.
4. Spend a day on Lokrum Island
600 meters from Dubrovnik’s coastline is the nature reserve of Lokrum Island. The unhurried beauty & forest pools attract locals and tourists alike. The small islet is packed with remarkable flora and fauna including olive trees and Cypress, offering a shaded & peaceful respite from the city. There are also botanical gardens and a Benedictine monastery on the island. The island can be reached by kayak or a short 10-minute ferry. There are a few small cafes with basic refreshments, but we recommend taking water and refreshments.
5. Swim in the cool Adriatic waters
From sand and shingle to rocky platforms, Croatians love swimming and bathing. For the best swimming spots read our beaches in Dubrovnik section of this post.
6. Indulge in the delicious local cuisine & remarkable wines
When visiting Dubrovnik there is a plethora of local delights to try including Croatian pizza, candied orange peel, black risotto & locally grown figs, to name a few… Where wine is concerned, Croatia’s fragrant reds are waiting to be tried.
7. Visit the Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands, or ‘Elafiti Islands’, are a collection of 13 islands northwest of Dubrovnik including Lopud, Sipan, Kolocep and a number of smaller uninhabited islands. The lush islands were once favoured by Dubrovnik aristocracy due to their peaceful nature and secluded feel. Still today the islands are unspoilt & dotted with small villages and coastal towns with a relaxed pace of life. The island’s are just a taster of the many Croatian Islands.
Dubrovnik Beaches
Although beaches in Croatia are not often sandy, they are no less beautiful. Croatians love swimming and bathing and will jump in at any given opportunity. Be that a shingle beach, rocky platform or kayaking to a hidden cave. Here’s a list of the best beaches in the Dubrovnik area:
Banje Beach
Dubrovnik’s most famous beach, Banje is a mix of shingle and sand with glorious views of the Old Town. The nearby promenade offers plenty of refreshments & nightlife. When talking about things to do in Dubrovnik, visiting Banje beach is a must.
Copacabana
Located on the Lapad Peninsular is Copacabana beach. The shingle beach gently shelves in to the water attracting families, locals and beach lovers alike.
Sveti Jakov
Loved by locals, this beach often goes unnoticed by tourists. It offers beautiful views of the Old Town yet is located nearly a mile away in a protected bay. Sun loungers, umbrellas and cold drinks are all available on this peaceful beach.
Betina Cave
Although hard to reach, the trip there is just as lovely as the beach itself. This hidden cave, accessible by boat or kayak, holds a small shingle beach where you’ll often find you’re the only person there.
Sunj Bay
Located on the island of Lopud, this is one of Croatia’s few sandy beaches. Almost 1km long, Sunj beach is shallow and perfect for families.