Top 10 Things to do In Dubrovnik

Holly Candlin - Celebrity Cruises writer

23 September 2019

There’s just something about the Croatian city of Dubrovnik. Perched on Croatia’s south coast, surrounded by the glittering blue Adriatic Sea, it’s known for its distinctive Old Town of terracotta rooftops and sandy stone. In recent years, it’s been used as a filmset for big budget productions such as James Bond and Game of Thrones, sending its star ascending even higher.

Discover Dubrovnik for yourself on a Mediterranean cruise. There’s so much to do in this compact city, from cocktail sipping to island hopping. Read on to find out our top ten favourite things to do in Dubrovnik.

Walk the walls

Dubrovnik is encircled by city walls which have fortified it against attack for centuries. The original walls date all the way back to the 9th century and were further strengthened by the addition of forts in the 14th century.

Depending on how energetic you feel, you can choose a strenuous hike on the walls, or choose a small portion – there are entrances all over the city, and from most vantage points you’ll have vistas across the Old Town and the sea. Remember to take a bottle of water!

Dubrovnik by cable car

Speaking of views, those from Mount Srd are definitely worth the hike to the top. Save your energy by taking the cable car – choose a return ticket, or stretch your legs with a walk back down the hill.

On the top of Mount Srd, you’ll find Fort Imperial, which was built during the 19th century Napoleonic Wars.

Sip cocktails overlooking the sea

One of our favourite spots in the whole city is Buza Bar. In Croatian, the word “Buza” means “hole” – which is apt, because you need to crawl through a hole in the wall to reach this secret bar. It enjoys prime position overlooking the water, built into the very cliff face itself.

There’s no better time to visit than at sunset – watch dazzling oranges and pinks dance over the water as you enjoy a cocktail or crisp glass of white wine.

Lockrum Island

You can reach the island of Lokrum by taking a short ferry ride from the Old Town. This is the place to take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the town centre, and stroll among fragrant pines and holm oaks.

Relax on the beach, kayak in the crystal clear water or check out the medieval monastery. Some Game of Thrones scenes were also filmed on Lokrum.

Visit the Game of Thrones filming locations

And while on the subject of Game of Thrones, a walk around Dubrovnik may reveal some familiar locations made famous by the HBO fantasy show.

Fort Lovrijenac, a fortress on the western walls, is the Red Keep in the show, while the Jesuit Staircase becomes the steps of the Sept of Baelor. Find all of your favourite spots by taking a Game of Thrones walking tour.

Stradun

Feel in the heart of the action on Stradun, the main street running through Dubrovnik’s Old Town, which divides it into its southern and northern parts.

The street is pedestrianised, and is brimming with boutiques, cafes and restaurants as well as plenty of cultural sights. Highlights include Orlando’s Column – a historic sculpture dedicated to a knight from the Middle Ages.

Proto

Not so much a Game of Thrones fan? Discover some delicious Croatian cuisine instead. Seafood is the name of the game at Proto, which has been serving up mouth-watering Dalmatian dishes since 1886.

The ancient recipes, originating from local fishermen, remain a secret to this day. Reccomended by the Michelin Guide, this is one not to miss.

Pile Gate

Pile Gate is the busy main entrance to the Old Town. In medieval times, it had a wooden drawbridge which sealed the city at night. This has since been replaced with an elegant stone bridge, which leads you across the moat and directly onto Stradun.

As you pass over the bridge, gaze down at the open space below to see where a moat once flowed.

Dubrovnik Cathedral

The roots of this striking Roman Catholic cathedral stretch back to the 7th century – a larger structure was built on top of the original basilica in the 12th century.

The cathedral has a fascinating history, having been apparently funded by Richard the Lionheart as a gift for being saved from a shipwreck on Lokrum. Look out for the strikingly intricate altars inside the cathedral – one of which is made from violet marble.

10.

Nautika

Before leaving Dubrovnik, treat yourself to an evening meal at culinary hotspot Nautika. Fresh seafood is served on sun-kissed terraces which jut out over the Adriatic Sea, also offering views of Lovrijenac and Bokar Fortresses.

Ready to start planning your Dubrovnik trip? Check out our Mediterranean cruises to find your perfect itinerary.