If you’re looking for the perfect Dubrovnik itinerary, look no further! After spending an incredible three months in Croatia we’ve been lucky enough to explore some of the very best this country has to offer, and Dubrovnik has to be top of the list.
With its stunning architecture, crystal-clear waters, and delightful Mediterranean atmosphere, Dubrovnik is a must-see destination. Made popular by the epic series ‘Game of Thrones’, Dubrovnik isn’t somewhere to seek peace and quiet, but it is a truly spectacular place that is well worth at least several days of your time.
We’ve put together the perfect itinerary that you can tailor to your vacation time frame. So whether you’re short on time or want to take it slow, this guide has got you covered.
Read on to find out more!
How Many Days Should You Spend In Dubrovnik?
There is a huge amount to see and do in Dubrovnik, and even more if you include the surrounding area.
Ideally, you should spend at least 3 days here, so we have tailored this Dubrovnik itinerary to a 3 day stay. This will give you enough time to explore the city’s many highlights and attractions, and give you the chance to add in a day trip to one of the beautiful nearby islands.
If you’re really pressed for time, it is possible to see some of the main highlights in only one day. However, you’ll need to be strategic with your time to make sure to hit all the must-see sights.
We’ve included the top sights in day one of this itinerary so that you can make the most of even the briefest visit to Croatia’s capital.
No matter how much time you have, this Dubrovnik itinerary will help you make the most of your trip!
Day 1: Explore the Old Town Highlights
The very best thing to do in Dubrovnik is to explore the beautiful Old Town.
Start at Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town, and wander the narrow streets. You will find the old town is full of little churches, chapels, and museums of every nature, so pop into any that interest you (we’ve listed the main attractions below so you don’t miss out!)
Walk The City Walls
One of the main itinerary highlights of any trip to Dubrovnik is to walk the city walls. These huge brick walls surround the city, towering above the little red rooves of the houses below. From the walls, you will get the most incredible views of the city and the sea beyond.
We recommend you get there early, as there is little shade to be found and the walk along the walls can be quite punishing in the midday sun. You will also get to enjoy the quiet of the city early in the morning before tour buses and cruise ships arrive.
It isn’t a cheap activity, but if you buy a Dubrovnik City Pass then you will get entrance to some of Dubrovnik’s other top attractions included. A day pass will cost around $35 from one of the many stalls in the old town.
Dubrovnik Cathedral
Next, make your way to the imposing Dubrovnik Cathedral, built in the 14th century. Entry is free, and inside you’ll find intricate and ornate artwork and an atmosphere like no other.
Franciscan Monastery
Then head on to Franciscan Monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies. The museum here is included in the Dubrovnik City Pass and is worth a quick look. It is mainly full of religious artifacts with only a few relics of its pharmacy history.
Lunch at Barba
Hopefully all that walking has helped you work up an appetite. Head to Barba for a seafood lunch. This tiny restaurant spills out onto the stairway, where you can perch on cushions and enjoy your octopus burger with a view.
Mount Srd
In the afternoon, take a cable car up to Mount Srđ for panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area. Srd is 1,352 feet tall and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Elafiti Islands, 35 miles away.
The Dubrovnik Cable Car will take you all the way to the summit in just 3 minutes. The cable cars are modern and feel safe and secure. Try to head to the rear of the cable car if you have a choice so that you can watch the town disappear below you as you ascend. There is a restaurant, viewing platforms, a fort, and a museum at the summit.
It’s a popular attraction, so expect to queue. Tickets cost 200 Kuna. If you prefer, you can hike to the summit for free instead, though there is little shade and it’s a few hour’s walk so make sure you pack accordingly.
In The Evening
Take an evening stroll along the Riva, Dubrovnik’s waterfront promenade lined with outdoor cafes. In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of Dubrovnik’s many excellent restaurants.
After dinner, head to the Jadran outdoor cinema where you can watch a film under the stars. They screen a huge range of films here, always in English with Croatian subtitles. Note that it is only open during the summer months.
Day 2: Take a day trip to a nearby island
No trip to Croatia would be complete without a visit to one of their stunning islands, and the fact that Dubrovnik is just a stones throw from some of the best makes it an even better place to base yourself for several days.
Mljet National Park
Mljet National Park, one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, is about an hour away from Dubrovnik. There are several ways to get here, either by passenger ferry or on a guided tour.
The prettiest part of the island is the national park, which you will have to pay to enter. When you get here, make your way to the Great Lake, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the surrounding forest. You should also make time to hike along one of the many shaded paths and view some of the lakes from above.
Korcula Island
If you’re looking for a mix of old town charm and some of the best beaches in Croatia then spend a day on Korcula island. With its mix of historic buildings, lush vegetation, and rocky coastline, Korcula is the perfect island to visit.
It takes around 1 and a half hours to reach Korcula by public ferry from Dubrovnik, or you can take a guided tour that includes some highlights en route.
The old town is the place to start, and you’ll enjoy the contrast of a quieter Croatian town that is no less beautiful than Dubrovnik. Visit St Mark’s Catherdral and the Marco Polo House, and wander the old town walls.
In the afternoon, make sure you head to one of Korcula’s best beaches, which some believe are the most beautiful in all of Croatia. Pupnaska beach is one of the most popular, but there are also a number of hidden gems that you might find you have all to yourself.
In The Evening
Back in Dubrovnik, go for sunset drinks at Buza bar, where you can watch adrenaline seekers plunge off the cliffs into the sea below. If you fancy a dip yourself, make sure you do a little research first. These cliff jumps are popular, but you need to know exactly where to land to stay safe.
For dinner, try Azur next door. Here you’ll find reasonably priced Asian and Med influenced cuisine, like the Dalmation tom yum soup. It has incredible views and is a great place to enjoy an evening meal.
Day 3: Explore Dubrovnik’s beaches
On your third day in Dubrovnik, focus on exploring the city’s wonderful beaches. Croatia is famous for it’s coastline, and luckily Dubrovnik has some beautiful beaches close by.
Banje Beach
Make your way down to Banje Beach, Dubrovnik’s most popular beach and the one that is often featured on postcards of the city. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the clear blue waters, and enjoy the stunning views.
You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas here and there are several places to hire water toys and jet skis. Being so close to the city itself prices aren’t cheap, so you might wish to bring your own shade and towels instead.
Lokrum Island
In the afternoon, head to Lokrum Island, just 15 minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik. Stretch out on the island’s pebble beaches or take a swim in the tranquil waters.
If you’ve had enough beach time then explore the botanical gardens where you’ll find several hundred species of plants, and even roaming peacocks that were bought to the island more than a hundred years ago. You can also explore the ruins of Benedict Monastery, a medieval monster that now lies amongst the vegetation.
In The Evening
For your last evening in Dubrovnik, splash out and eat a Michelin-starred meal at 360. This is one of Croatia’s best restaurants (perhaps even the best), and you’ll find food that’s as good to look at as it is to eat. The setting isn’t too shabby either, as this restaurant is in a UNESCO building on top of the old port. It will be a night to remember.
Conclusion: How Many Days to Spend in Dubrovnik, The Perfect Itinerary
This Dubrovnik itinerary provides the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, ensuring that you make the most of your time in this stunning city.
As you can see, there are enough must-try restaurants here alone to keep you full for days, but if you are on a tight timeline then it is possible to get a feel for this beautiful city in just a day. We’re pretty sure that after you’ve had a taste, you’ll be booking a trip back for more!
