17 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Dubrovnik

Imagine Dubrovnik before there were tourists. Imagine its gleaming white stone squares, narrow alleyways covered in purple blossoming flowers, red tile roofs, and its imposing fortress walls, splendid cathedrals, and broad plazas. For centuries Dubrovnik's attractions were best enjoyed by the locals who lived there, and the handful of tourists who knew where to look.

Today the scene in Dubrovnik is slightly different. It's just as beautiful as it always was, but the secret is out on Dubrovnik's attractions. You can thank Game of Thrones for that. Today thousands upon thousands of tourists visit every single day in search of things to see and do in Dubrovnik, from its Medieval stone walls to the beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and nearby islands. Tourists also come to see the many real-life sets that were used in the making of their favorite movies and TV shows, from Game of Thrones to Star Wars and many more.

Dubrovnik was named the "Pearl of the Adriatic" centuries ago for a reason. And while today you can order everything in English, pay for everything with a tap of your credit card, and hear hundreds of languages from all over the world, one thing will always remain the same — Dubrovnik is pure magic.

If you're visiting the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik's attractions are a must. Discover the highlights of this mesmerizing medieval masterpiece and read on to discover the best things to do in Dubrovnik.

The Old City Walls

The first thing you will notice about Dubrovnik is its impressive city walls, which wrap snuggly around the entire city. From the street, all you can see are the imposing walls and the pinkish-red tips of the tiled rooftops. The first time I saw the walls I felt the anticipation bubbling up inside of me — I had to get inside to see what marvelous treasures awaited.

The old city walls of Dubrovnik are one of its best-known features, now more than ever thanks to being featured in the hit TV series, Game of Thrones. Built in the 10th century and modified in the 13th and 14th centuries, these formidable walls–as high as six meters in places, and up to six meters thick–provided a solid defense against invaders. Totaling nearly two kilometers in length, Dubrovnik's city walls make a great spot for a casual stroll and offer numerous excellent views over the Adriatic and inwards over the old city center.

Highlights along the way include the Bokar Tower (Tvrdava Bokar), Fort Lovrjenac, the Revelin Fortress, and the Minceta Tower (Tvrdava Minceta) explained in greater detail below.

Note that the city walls ascend and descend, so the relatively short two-kilometer distance is deceptively hot and sweaty work in the height of summer. If you plan to do the entire route, which is recommended, be sure to start early before the heat of the day. You'll also avoid a majority of the crowds.

The ticket price to wander the walls is 35 Euros per person. But if you purchase a Dubrovnik Pass for the same price, you have access to the walls, many art galleries, the Natural History Museum, the Franciscan Monastery, the Cultural History Museum, and a few other attractions.

Take a Ferry to The Island of Lokrum

Located just 600 meters from Dubrovnik, the island of Lokrum is pretty hard to miss. If you've got time in your Dubrovnik sightseeing itinerary, hop aboard the short ferry ride to this fascinating island. In addition to the superb views over the Old Town of Dubrovnik, there are a few interesting attractions you'll find here worth exploring (and usually with few if any crowds).

Head first to Fort Royal Castle, a fortification constructed by Napoleon's troops to defend the harbor city. It's an easy climb, and the views in all directions are spectacular.

Other points of interest on this small island include a small inland salt lake known as the Dead Sea, a popular spot for selfies and scuba diving; an old Benedictine Monastery known to have been around since the 11th century and which now houses a museum about the island, as well as a restaurant; and a delightful botanical garden that's home to some 200 or so species of plants.

The island is also fun to access via sea kayak, which can easily be rented on the mainland.

Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car

Another fun thing to do when visiting Dubrovnik is to head to the hills–via cable car. The Dubrovnik Cable Car whisks visitors high above the Old Town, up Srd Hill, with the views only getting better and better as you climb (on clear days, it's said you can see for some 50 kilometers). The journey lasts less than 10 minutes, and once deposited at the top, you're free to explore the area.

Attractions to look out for include the 19th-century Imperial Fortress, built by the French during their occupation of the region and now housing a fascinating exhibit pertaining to the Homeland War of 1991-1995 when the city was defended against hostile forces. There's also a restaurant boasting spectacular views over the Old Town, along with unique shopping, including a fascinating traditional coin-minting blacksmith shop.

Address: Ulica kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 20000, Dubrovnik

Walk through Stradun

Nothing will put you in the moment quite like a stroll down Dubrovnik's impressive Stradun. This main thoroughfare runs almost the entire length of Old Town and it is from this main area that all the smaller side streets and alleys branch off.

The spectacular Stradun–also known in Dubrovnik as Placa–is a place where locals and visitors alike gather day and night to watch the world drift by. Undoubtedly one of Europe's most picturesque pedestrian thoroughfares, the Stradun boasts many cafés and restaurants and is a good spot to get in some shopping or to rest weary feet after a day touring Dubrovnik.

Measuring 300 meters in length and famous for its white limestone paving, the street dates back to 1468, although many of the surrounding buildings were built in the 17th century after the devastating earthquake of 1667 when most of Dubrovnik was heavily damaged.

The Stradun's unique homes are designed to enable residential living upstairs and business activities on the main level, and are notable for having their main doors and windows under the same arch.

Just a few steps away from the Stradun on one of the side streets, War Photo Limited is a fascinating photography museum displaying images from the countless armed conflicts mankind has found itself caught up in.

Fort Lovrijenac

Dubbed "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar" for its location on a rocky promontory just outside the city's western wall, Fort Lovrijenac–also known as St. Lawrence Fortress–has long been one of Croatia's most important fortresses.

Rising an impressive 37 meters above the Adriatic, this stunning fortification proved impregnable during the many sieges undertaken by the Venetians from its completion in the 11th century onwards. Legend, in fact, has it that the Venetians themselves planned to build a fort here but were beaten to it by industrious city folk.

Also notable for its unusual triangular layout with its three terraces, Fort Lovrijenac is accessed via two drawbridges and a gateway through its impressive walls, in places as thick as 12 meters.

In addition to serving as a tourist attraction, the fort is also used as a venue and backdrop for Dubrovnik's famous Summer Festival and its many theatrical and musical performances.

Address: Ul. od Tabakarije 29, 20000, Dubrovnik

The City Gates

For centuries, Dubrovnik's famous Pile Gate has served as the main entrance and is still the most interesting access point to this fabulous old city. Formerly surrounded by a moat complete with a drawbridge built in 1537, the pedestrian-only Pile Gate–one of two entrances to the Lapad area–also boasts a pleasant garden in the old moat.

Other highlights include a statue of St. Blaise located in a niche in the arch and carved by famous Croatian artist Ivan Meštrovic, and, within the ramparts, a door dating back to 1460.

Another gate worth seeing is the 14th-century Ploce Gate, just behind the Asimov Tower. Designed as a "double defense" system, it proved effective in times of trouble. Also imposing and located just across the moat from the Ploce Gate is the Revelin Fortress, built in 1580.

City Harbor

As much as I am saddened by the over-tourism toll the Game of Thrones had on Dubrovnik, I did watch the show and I can't help but get excited when I see famous scenes from the series. The City Harbor is one spot in Dubrovnik that will get your GOT energy going.

But the HBO series aside, the harbor is packed with history and is absolutely stunning. From the city's back gate, you'll have one of the very best views over the harbor, including the sporty speedboats, the three-arched landing, and the rooftops of the city.

For a lovely lunch stop, Locanda Peskarija serves fresh seafood and grilled items al fresco, overlooking the gently bobbing boats.

The Rector's Palace and Cultural Historical Museum

Designed by Onofrio de la Cava in 1435, the Rector's Palace (Knežev dvor), now home to the city's Cultural Historical Museum, has been much altered through the centuries. A beautiful mix of late Gothic and early Renaissance styles, this splendid old palace was heavily damaged by a gunpowder explosion not long after its completion, later by a fire, and then again in 1667 when an earthquake struck.

These days, this well-preserved building is a delight to explore, particularly its pleasant central courtyard. If possible, try to time your visit to coincide with one of its regular summer classical music performances.

Also of interest is the bust of Miho Pracat, a former merchant from the island of Lopud. Highlights of the museum's collection of 15,000 pieces include many interesting exhibits detailing life in the Republic of Ragusa during medieval times, as well as numerous fine paintings by Venetian and Dalmatian artists.

Address: Opcina Dubrovnik, 20000

Minceta Tower

Located on the city wall system, the impressive Minceta Tower (Tvrdava Minceta) is well worth checking out. Originally built in 1319 and reinforced in 1461, the tower casts an imposing shadow on the old town below. The tower was also one of the major settings for a pivotal scene in Game of Thrones, where Daenerys goes to search for her stolen dragons.

The Minceta tower, located at the north end of the wall system near the Pile Gate, is the farthest inland of all the towers making it one of the best spots to get that perfect shot out over the old town with its wonderful orange rooftops. Be brave and scale the narrow stairways to the top; the flow of visitors can be tricky at times, so pack a bit of patience on your way up.

The Large Fountain of Onofrio and St. Saviour Church

Built between 1438 and 1444, Dubrovnik's famous Large Fountain of Onofrio is probably the best-known of the city's many historic monuments. An easy stroll from the Pile Gate, this landmark structure is somewhat smaller today than the original due to damage caused by the earthquake of 1667. The fountain was an important part of the city's original water supply system (also designed by Onofrio de la Cava) that carried water from the Dubrovacka River.

The fountain stands immediately in front of the equally attractive St. Saviour Church (Crkva sv Spasa). Built in the early 16th century in thanks to what city elders believed was divine intervention after the city was spared during an earthquake a few years earlier, it is in fact one of only a few buildings to have survived the devastating earthquake of 1667 intact. Today, this small place of worship is well worth visiting for its fine Gothic and Renaissance features.

Address: Poljana Paska Milicevica 2000, 20000, Dubrovnik

The Franciscan Church and Monastery

Another important historic site to add to your Dubrovnik itinerary is the city's Franciscan Church and Monastery. This well-preserved building was constructed in the late 1600s on the site of the original monastery from the 1100s and is now home to one of the most valuable libraries in Croatia.

Established in the 17th century and housing a collection of more than 21,000 rare book manuscripts, it's also the location of a fascinating medieval pharmacy that's been in use since 1317 (making it one of the oldest in the world) and is notable for its numerous old decorated jars, measuring devices, and mortars.

There's also an on-site museum containing items of historical interest and a fine art collection.

Address: Poljana Paska Milicevica 4, 20000, Dubrovnik

Soak Up the Sun at the Beaches

There's more to do in Dubrovnik than simply sightseeing. This historic city is in fact home to Banje Beach, widely regarded as one of the top beaches in Croatia. Located just a short walk from the historic Old Town, it's a delightful (if somewhat crowded) place to relax and splash your feet, or go for a swim.

In addition to water sports activities such as sea kayaking and windsurfing, it's also a pleasant place for a stroll, especially after enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants or luxury hotels nearby.

Tip: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik has one of the best outdoor patios that overlooks Old Town and Banje Beach. Their al fresco Prora Restaurant is perfect for lunch with a view.

One of the best beaches in Dubrovnik, possibly the best, can be found a short walk away from Hotel Excelsior. Sveti Jakov Beach is a protected cove at the base of a long, stone staircase. The beach here is spectacular, with pearly white pebbles, crystal-and-turquoise water, and jaw-dropping views of Dubrovnik. What's more, it's far less crowded than Banje Beach.

To find Sveti Jakov Beach, find the church and circle around the back to the left. On the other side is the stone staircase of approximately 170 steps that leads down to the beach.

Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury

Standing on the site of an older cathedral dating from the 6th century that was destroyed by earthquakes, beautiful Dubrovnik Cathedral–also referred to as the Assumption Cathedral (its full name is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, or Katedrala Velike Gospe in Croatian)–was designed in Baroque style by Andrea Buffalini of Rome.

Notable for its three aisles, three apses, and splendid interior décor, the cathedral includes highlights such as paintings by Italian and Dalmatian artists from the 16th to 18th centuries, including the Virgin of the Chair by Raphael from the early 1600s.

A must-see is the Cathedral Treasury (Riznica Katedrale) with its many important relics, the most famous being a portion of the cross that Jesus is thought to have been crucified upon. Other famous relics include the head, leg, and arm of St. Blaise, the city's patron saint, dating from the 13th century, as well as a splendid display of 138 gold and silver reliquaries from around the world.

Address: Opcina Dubrovnik, 20000

Stroll around Loggia Square

Loggia Square in Dubrovnik has long been a central gathering point for citizens and visitors alike. Featuring some of Dubrovnik's most famous buildings and public monuments, this former market square is found in the northeast section of the old city center.

Highlights include Orlando's Column (Orlandov stup), built and designed by sculptor Antonio Ragusino, as well as the famous Loggia of the Bells, dating from 1480 and used as an early warning system by residents in times of unrest.

It's here you'll also find the Church of St. Blaise, of interest for its Baroque façade and priceless collection of works of art. Also of interest on the square are a clock tower from the 15th century; the main guardhouse; the small fountain of Onofrio; and Sponza Palace, now home to the city's archives.

Take a Game of Thrones Walking Tour of Dubrovnik

Whether your Dubrovnik sightseeing itinerary is on a tight schedule or you've got bags of time in which to explore this amazing Croatian city, Game of Thrones fans will not want to miss the chance to catch the best bits that appeared in the series.

The Game of Thrones Walking Tour of Dubrovnik is one of the most popular things to do here and takes in many of the key locations used in the filming of the show. It includes a running commentary from a professional tour guide well-versed in both the real and imagined history of the locale in question.

Highlights include getting some of the best views available over the city skyline that many will know as King's Landing, as well as the historic Fort Lovrijenac, which featured predominantly in Game of Thrones.

Part of the fun is hearing about the behind-the-scenes tales these guides have gathered, and an optional upgrade includes a visit to Trsteno Arboretum, which is featured in the show as the royal gardens.

Of course, the tours will also take you to the iconic "Shame" steps. Try not to cringe too much when you see the nearby restaurants serving up their versions of a "Shame Burger."

The Dominican Monastery

Built in the early 1300s, Dubrovnik's Dominican Monastery was so large that construction required moving parts of the city walls just to accommodate it. Heavily damaged in the 1667 earthquake, the monastery was completely rebuilt in its present form with special attention given to preserving features such as its splendid late Gothic cloister (the original was designed by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo of Florence in the 15th century).

A particular highlight is visiting the monastery's museum, with its many 15th- and 16th-century religious paintings in the style of the Dubrovnik (also known as the Venetian) School, along with interesting items of gold and silver and other relics.

Address: Ul. Svetog Dominika 4, 20000, Dubrovnik

The Fort of St. John

On the eastern edge of the old town sits the Fort of St. John, known to locals as the Fort of St. Ivan. Once an important part of Dubrovnik's defenses, this imposing structure now houses several modern attractions to keep visitors entertained.

In the upper area is the Maritime Museum of Dubrovnik featuring displays of Dubrovnik's maritime past illustrated through model boats and naval artifacts, while the lower area contains the Aquarium of Dubrovnik with its many interesting displays of local and exotic fish, as well as a superb collection of seahorses.

Also worth a visit is nearby Bokar Fort, designed and built by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo Michelozzi and a great spot to visit for its excellent views over the city and the Adriatic.

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Dubrovnik

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The Great Dalmatian Coast: Other great destinations to visit on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia include the country's second-largest city of Split, home to the beautiful Diocletian's Palace, made famous for its role in Game of Thrones. Also worth checking out is the seaside town of Trogir, a delightful place to explore on foot that can trace its history back as far as the time of the Greeks. For a less crowded Dalmatian Coast experience, include Sibenik in your itinerary–its more relaxed pace and splendid architecture make it well worth exploring.

Croatia Vacation Ideas: Be sure to allocate time for a visit to the Croatian capital of Zagreb, popular for its stunning architecture and cathedral with its rich treasury. Another great city destination is Zadar, famous for its modern art installations, including the wonderful Sea Organ. Finally, the province of Istria is home to numerous sightseeing opportunities. Highlights include exploring the medieval coastal town of Rovinj, as well as the hilltop fortress town of Motovun, and the ancient Roman ruins of Pula.