What are the Best Things to do in Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik is a stunning city in Croatia that is extremely popular with tourists. The city boasts an incredibly long history and a wealth of attractions and activities to keep any traveler entertained. From its stunningly blue waters and diverse culture to its impressive historical sites, Dubrovnik is a unique and unforgettable experience. With its impressive list of things to do, it can be hard to decide which activities to prioritize. Fortunately, here is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Dubrovnik.

1. Visit Old Town

The first thing that any traveler should do in Dubrovnik is to explore Old Town. Old Town is surrounded with walls and is famous for its iconic red roofs. Once you’re in the old city, you can wander through the narrow cobbled streets, discovering the various shops, cafes, and bars. The city walls offer spectacular views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

2. Climb Mount Srđ

Mount Srđ towers over Dubrovnik and offers picturesque views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area. Visitors can either hike up the summit or take a cable car. Once at the top, you can admire the views of Dubrovnik and visit the Fort Imperial Museum. On your descent, there is a restaurant at the foothills of the mountain where you can take a break.

3. Take a Stroll Along the Stradun

The Stradun is the main promenade of Dubrovnik’s old town which winds its way from Pile Gate (the main entrance to Old Town) all the way to Clocktower Square at the opposite end. A stroll along the Stradun is a great way to discover many of the sights of Old Town on foot, including palaces, old fountains, churches, and other hidden gems.

4. Catch a Performance at Dubrovnik Summer Festival

Since 1950, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival has been taking place each summer in July and August. Visitors can expect to see over 200 cultural events, including music concerts, plays, opera performances, and lectures. There are several venues amongst histories sites throughout Dubrovnik where events are held and tickets can be purchased online or on the day of the event at a ticket box near each venue.

5. Tour Around the City Walls

A tour around Dubrovnik’s city walls is one of the key things to do while in Dubrovnik. The 2km distance tour will grant you stunning views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea on one side and views of Lokrum Island on the other side. The tour can be done by foot or with a local guided city wall tour.

6. Go Sea Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore Dubrovnik from a different viewpoint and witness some of its lesser known nooks and crannies from the Adriatic Sea. Participants have access to kayaks and experienced guides who take them on quick trips around Lokrum Island and out into open sea for amazing views of Dubrovnik and its coastline along with plenty of photo opportunities.

7. Visit Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is located just a short boat ride away from Old Town Dubrovnik and is an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors will find plenty of nice beaches, natural ponds, dense forest trails, and impressive botanical gardens as well as various restaurants and cafes that offer stunning views from their terraces.

8. Go Swimming at Banje Beach

Located near Old Town, Banje Beach is a public beach that offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and provides plenty of amenities including umbrellas, cabanas, showers, changing rooms, snack bars, and much more. Many people enjoy swimming at the beach or taking a dip in one of its shallow rocky pools found near the coastline. An overall great experience!

9. Visit Islands Out in the Adriatic Sea

Dubrovnik’s coastline offers plenty of opportunities to explore some of nearby islands scattered off its coast such as Mljet Island, Korčula Island, or Elafiti Beaches where you’ll find some truly spectacular swimming spots, protected forests, ancient forts, secluded villages and much more. Excursions to these islands are offered by several companies who provide sightseeing tours and boat tours around the islands as well as other activities such as snorkeling or scuba diving experiences.

10. Go Shopping

Dubrovnik offers plenty of shopping experiences for those who are looking for some souvenirs or gifts for themselves or friends back home. From highly acclaimed cheeses made from local farms to beautiful pieces of jewelry featuring Croatian symbols like Dalmatian dogs or Neretva oranges, there’s something for everyone in Dubrovnik’s bustling streets. The city also has several large malls outside the city center which are great for those looking for big international brand products or even some new clothes or home accessories shopping. No matter what type of traveler you are, there is certainly something for everyone in Dubrovnik! From admiring historical sites to exploring nature trails, spending time admiring art or museums or discovering some hidden gems in Lokrum Island, visitors are guaranteed to find something of interest that will make their trip to this wonderful city even more enjoyable!