Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting? 11 Reasons to Visit Dubrovnik in 2023

Yes, Dubrovnik is worth visiting. Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities, located on a stunning coastline amongst the captivating blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. The old town in Dubrovnik is famous for it’s majestic city walls that surround the city, and was also the filming location of Kings Landing in Game of Thrones.

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Why is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?

Dubrovnik has it all, from panoramic views of a picturesque old town to beaches with crystal blue waters to a lush island filled with gardens and Peacocks, Dubrovnik is an incredible destination. It is a place full of history, beauty, and great food.

11 Reasons Dubrovnik is Worth Visiting and Best Things to Do

There are so many things to do in Dubrovnik, from visiting the museums like Rectors Palace and walking the medieval walls, to relaxing on the beaches or taking a boat cruise to the Elaphiti Islands. Below is 11 reasons why Dubrovnik is worth visiting along with some of the best things to do there.

1. Wander the Beautiful Old Town and Experience History

Dubrovnik is one of the only remaining completely walled cities in Europe, making it an extremely unique and historical city to visit.

Dubrovnik’s old town dates back to the 7th century, and became a powerful force on Mediterranean from the 13th century and onwards. The Dubrovnik Republic was so influential that this small, yet powerful city-state rivaled Venice and their far-spread Venetian Empire. While an earthquake in 1667 came close to destroying the historic city, the locals rebuilt it into it’s former beauty.

Today, you can enter the impressive old town through three different medieval gates, the Ploče Gate, Pile Gate, or the Buža Gate. The old town is a pedestrian only area, making it truly feel like you are stepping back in time to wander the streets of a medieval city.

The old city of Dubrovnik is full of cobblestone alleyways amongst medieval style buildings, and you can easily spend a day wandering the old town. A highlight of the old town is the Stradun, which is the main street and is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

2. Walk the Dubrovnik Walls

The historic Dubrovnik Walls surround the old city, and were first built in the 13th century. The astounding city walls are length of 1,940 m (6,360 ft) around the city, and stand an impressive 25 m (82 ft) high.

One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is to take a walk along the top of the walls, where you will have incredible views of the old town, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic sea.

It takes around 2 hours to complete a walk around the city walls, and it is best to go first thing in the morning or in the early evening to avoid the crowds and the heat. There are a few places that sell drinks on top of the walls, but it is a good idea to bring some bottled water for the walk.

The old town walls are open daily from 9am-5pm, and until 7pm during the summer season. For admission to the city walls, it is usually best to purchase a Dubrovnik City Pass as it will include the walls and other attractions for the same price. You can also do a walking tour of the walls or a sunset walking tour.

We walked the Dubrovnik walls from about 5pm-7pm. I highly recommend walking the walls in the evening, so that you can end your walk with a drink on the wall watching as the sun starts to set in the horizon.

3. Explore the Filming Sites of Game of Thrones: Kings Landing

If you are a fan of the show Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik is worth visiting. Dubrovnik is home to the filming locations of King’s Landing, and featured several important Game of Thrones scenes. Explore the filming sites of the Red Keep or Black Water Bay, or wander the streets of Kings Landing by visiting Dubrovnik.

To immerse yourself into Game of Thrones, I highly recommend taking a Game of Thrones Tour like this one. The guided tours will show you the locations of crucial scenes in the series, along with photos of the filming. Make sure to snap a picture on the Iron Throne!

Click Here to Check Availability and Book a Game of Thrones Tour

4. Ride the Cable Car for Panoramic Views

The Dubrovnik Cable Car goes up Mount Srd and provides breathtaking views over Dubrovnik and the Adriatic sea. The cable car will take you up an astounding 405m (1,328ft) above sea level to the top.

On top of Mount Srd, you will find three terraces equipped with binocular telescopes, a souvenir shop, and one of the best restaurants in all of Dubrovnik, Panorama Restaurant and Bar. I highly recommend making a reservation for Panorama, it is an incredible dining experience.

To get tickets for the cable car, you can either buy them on site or online. Another awesome option is to take a walking tour like this one, which includes both the Dubrovnik Walls and the cable car ride.

👉 Click Here to Book a Walking Tour that includes the City Walls and a Ride on the Cable Car

5. Kayak along Dubrovnik’s Coastline

Kayaking in the crystal clear Adriatic sea is one of the many reasons as to why Dubrovnik is worth visiting. The beautiful blue water perched next to Dubrovnik’s incredible walled city is truly a unique sight.

To kayak in the Adriatic Sea, this 2.5 hour Kayaking tour is an amazing option and will take you from outside the city walls to the coast of Lokrum island and back. Taking a group kayaking tour helps ensure safety and it also makes sure you go to the best spots. They also offer an incredible sunset kayaking tour.

👉 Click Here to Book a Kayaking Tour in Dubrovnik

6. Visit Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, and is a perfect spot to spend half a day while visiting Dubrovnik. Lokrum Island is known for its beautiful and lush botanical gardens, as well as it’s Peacocks that roam freely around the island!

There is plenty of things to do in Lokrum Island, from visiting the botanical gardens to exploring the ruins of a Benedictine Monastery. During the summer, Lokrum Island is a great place to relax in the sun, swim, or snorkel in the Adriatic Sea.

You can get to Lokrum Island by taking a 15 minute ferry ride from the Old Port of Dubrovnik directly to the island. Alternatively, you can take a small group tour like this one from Dubrovnik to visit Lokrum.

7. Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting? Yes, to Relax at Dubrovnik’s Beaches

Is Dubrovnik worth visiting to go to the beach? Yes, Dubrovnik has some amazing beaches. While most of the beaches are pebbly vs. sandy, the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic sea amongst the beautiful Old Town of Dubrovnik make these beaches incredible to visit.

Banje Beach is one of the most popular beaches, as it is directly outside of Dubrovnik’s old town. Banje Beach is perfect for families or those looking to try out some water sports. It is also possible tor rent lounge chairs at Banje Beach.

Lapad, which is a popular area to stay in Dubrovnik is also full of beaches. Some of these beaches include Uvala Lapad Beach and Bellevue Beach.

To visit Dubrovnik’s only fully sandy beach, you will have to go by boat to Sunj Beach on Lopud Island. To visit Sunj, I recommend taking a boat tour like this one. We actually visited Sunj Beach on our anniversary, so we opted for a private boat tour and it was absolutely incredible.

🏖️ Check Prices and Book a Private Boat Tour to the Blue Cave, Lopud Island & Sandy Beach Sunj.

8. Enjoy the Nightlife in Dubrovnik

Is Dubrovnik worth visiting for nightlife? Absolutely. Dubrovnik has a great variety of nightlife, from hidden cliff bars, lovely wine bars, Irish pubs, beach clubs, and even a nightclub in a fortress. There is really something for everyone when it comes to nightlife in Dubrovnik.

The Old Town in Dubrovnik is full of picturesque wine bars, perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine after a day of exploring. There are also a few lively bars, perfect for catching a Football game or enjoying some music.

Another popular spot is the hidden cliff bars, such as Buza Bar. You’ll enter Buza Bar through an unnamed doorway in the city walls, and it leads out to a fantastic bar perched along the cliffside.

Those looking for a nightclub will want to check out Culture Club Revelin. This club is one of the most popular in Europe, and is actually located inside part of the old fortress. They have a variety of DJ’s and themed nights, and its a pretty cool experience.

9. Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting? Yes to Explore Fort Lovrijenac

Fort Lovrijenac is located just outside of the old town of Dubrovnik, and is worth a visit. This famous fort was famously built in 3 months by the people of Dubrovnik in order to beat the Venetians to it. It is said that had the Venetians built the fort there first, they would have gained control over Dubrovnik.

Today, Fort Lovrijenac is a popular attraction, and also serves as a working theater. While there is not much inside of the fort, it has a terrace on top that provides incredible views of the Old Town, and it was also a filming location in Game of Thrones.

10. Take a Boat Tour to the Elaphiti Islands

Visiting the Elaphiti Islands makes for a perfect warm summer day in Dubrovnik. Hopping on a boat and enjoying the sea breeze is a great way to escape the crowds of old town and enjoy the the beautiful Adriatic Sea.

The Elaphiti Islands includes three main islands: Sipan, Koločep, and Lopud. These islands are incredibly serene and great for having a relaxing day. The islands can be visited by taking a boat tour.

There are so many options for boat tours to the islands, but below are some of the highest rated and best options.

Full Day Elaphiti Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

This full day boat tour is a perfect option for those looking to spend a full day on the Adriatic Sea exploring the islands. This tour includes lunch and unlimited drinks, making it the perfect all-inclusive option for a great price. Visit the beautiful islands of Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan and enjoy free time to swim in the crystal clear water, take a nature walk, or relax on the sandy Sunj beach.

✔️Click Here to Check Availability and Book a Full Day Cruise to the Elaphiti Islands with Lunch and Drinks

Half Day Blue Cave and Sunj Beach Boat Tour

If you are looking for a half day option, this 4 hour boat cruise is an excellent choice. The boat will take you to the mystical blue cave, where you will have a chance to admire the natural phenomenon, swim, and snorkel in the sea. Next, enjoy some beach time at the incredible sandy Sunj Beach which is located on Lopud Island. The tour includes snorkel equipment and drinks on board.

✔️Click Here to Check Availability and Book a Half Day Boat Tour to the Blue Cave and Sunj Beach

4-hour Elafiti Islands Private Boat Tour

For the ultimate experience, book a private speed boat tour. This is a great option for those wanting to have the boat just to their group, and be able to customize based on your preferences.

We splurged on this experience for our anniversary and it was an incredible way to spend the day out on the water just the two of us. We chose to spend a majority of time at the Blue Cave and Sunj Beach, but as it is a private tour you can visit what interests you the most!

✔️Click Here to Check Availability and Book a 4-hour Private Boat Tour

11. Take a Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Another Country

If you have lots of days in Dubrovnik, you may consider taking a day trip to one of Croatia’s neighboring countries: Montenegro or Bosnia.

Taking a day trip is a great way to experience a taste of another culture if you don’t have the vacation time to visit that place separately. Keep in mind that you must bring your passports as you will go through a border crossing.

Day Trip to Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro is located around a 2 hour drive south of Dubrovnik, and it is absolutely stunning. The mountains are very dynamic, making it an incredible coastline. The town of Kotor is definitely worth a visit to see it’s beautiful old town or hike up it’s castle walls.

To take a day trip to Kotor, you can either drive yourself or take a guided tour like this one. The guided tour is a great option, as you don’t have to worry about driving the costal roads. This tour includes a boat trip to the famous Our Lady on the Rock Church in Perast, as well as visit the medieval town of Kotor.

✔️Click Here to Book a Day Trip to Montenegro

Day Trip to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Another option is to take a day trip to Mostar, Bosnia. Mostar is an incredibly unique city as it intertwines Eastern and Western cultures. It is a very different atmosphere than Dubrovnik. The highlight of Mostar is the beautiful Mostar Old Bridge.

To take a day trip from Dubrovnik, it is best to take a guided tour, as the drive is 2.5 hours each way. Another option is to drive to Mostar as a detour on your way north towards other Croatian cities like Split or Zagreb.

By taking a guided tour, you can relax while your guide tells you more about Bosnia and Herzegovina and then have plenty of energy to explore the unique city. Most tours also stop at the famous Kravice Waterfall.

✔️Click Here to Book a Day Trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting? The Cons of Visiting Dubrovnik

As with any destination, there are a few downsides to visiting Dubrovnik. While these are things to consider when planning a trip, they shouldn’t deter you from coming to Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Gets Crowded

The main con is that Dubrovnik can be very crowded and faces over-toursim, especially in July and August in the old town. To avoid the crowds, coming in the shoulder seasons of April-May, or September-October is a great option. Another option is to explore old town early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the larger crowds.

Dubrovnik Is Expensive

Dubrovnik is the most expensive city in Croatia. However, compared to other European cities such as London, Paris, or Rome, Dubrovnik is still relatively affordable. To save money on a trip to Dubrovnik, try to eat and stay outside of the old town as that is the area with the highest prices.

The Stairs in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has A LOT of stairs. This is something to be prepared for, and it can be tiring especially on a hot summer day. The stairs are especially tedious in the old town.

If you are in need of an accessible way to visit old town, come through the Pile Gate and it will take you right to the main street of Stradun, without stairs.

Where to Stay When Visiting Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is worth visiting, and you can easily spend 4 or 5 nights in Dubrovnik. There are many options when it comes to where to stay in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Old Town

Best For: Couples, Solo Travelers, History Buffs & GoT fans, and those who don’t mind carrying luggage from the old town gate to their accommodation
Recommended Hotel: Boutique Hotel Stari Grad or Dubrovnik Throne Suites **We stayed here and it was INCREDIBLE.

Lapad

Best For: Families, Easier Access, Parking, People that want to spend time at the beach
Recommended Hotel: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik

Pile

Best For: Being in the center of everything, People that want to walking distance to Old Town, but not have to carry luggage into the old town
Recommended Hotel: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

Ploče

Best For: Luxury Stays, Couples, Families, and People that want incredible views of Dubrovnik
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Excelsior

Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting? The FAQ’s

Dubrovnik is a city worth visiting. However, you may find yourself wondering one of the following questions before visiting.

How Many Days Do You Need in Dubrovnik?

It is best to stay at least 3 days in Dubrovnik, as this will give you a day to explore the old town and museums, a day to visit Lokrum island, and a day to walk the city walls and take the cable car. If you can spend 4 or 5 days, you will have time to visit the beaches, the Elaphiti Islands, or take a day trip.

Is Dubrovnik Good for Tourists?

Dubrovnik is an amazing place to visit, the people of Croatia are very friendly to tourists. Dubrovnik is the perfect vacation spot as it has a beautiful old town, lots of delicious restaurants, lovely shops, incredible beaches, and plenty of day trip options. There is certainly something for everyone in Dubrovnik, making it a great destination for tourists.

Is Dubrovnik or Split Better to Visit?

Dubrovnik is the best for history buffs and Game of Thrones fans, as well as those looking to explore one of Europe’s only walled medieval cities. Dubrovnik also has an amazing old town, incredible food and panoramic view points. Split is perfect as a base for day trips, has more nightlife options, and is slightly cheaper.

So, Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?

Dubrovnik is absolutely worth visiting. This is truly stunning costal city and is one of the only remaining medieval walled cities in all of Europe. Dubrovnik is worth visiting for those who love history, Game of Thrones, beaches, or just beautiful places in general. There are so many things to do in Dubrovnik that it is a place with something for everyone.