What to Do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Top Activities and Sights

Dubrovnik, the enchanting pearl of the Adriatic, captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking coastal views. This Croatian gem offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean charm and medieval splendor, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking culture, beauty, and adventure. From exploring ancient city walls to savoring local delicacies, Dubrovnik has something to offer every type of visitor.

Wondering what to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia? This guide covers the top activities and sights that make this city a traveler’s paradise. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, experience vibrant local cuisine and nightlife, take day trips to nearby islands, and delve into the city’s maritime heritage. Additionally, the article highlights opportunities to shop for unique local souvenirs, ensuring a memorable stay in this captivating coastal city.

Visit Dubrovnik’s Historical Landmarks

Dubrovnik, a city on the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia, is renowned for its distinctive Old Town, encircled by massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. Visitors can explore a wealth of historical landmarks that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor.

Rector’s Palace

The Rector’s Palace, known as Knežev Dvor in Croatian, stands as one of Dubrovnik’s most popular attractions. This Gothic-Renaissance palace served as the seat of the Ragusan Republic and offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s administrative history. Originally built in the 13th century, the palace has undergone several reconstructions due to gunpowder explosions in 1435 and 1463, as well as the devastating earthquake of 1667.

The palace’s western facade features a main portal decorated with intricate arcades and arches, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. Inside, visitors can explore the inner courtyard adorned with Corinthian-style columns and a 15th-century fountain. The atrium also houses a monument honoring Miho Pracat, the only commoner to receive such recognition in Dubrovnik’s history.

Today, the Rector’s Palace serves as a museum, displaying artifacts from noble families, old archives, and historical documents. Visitors can view carved bookcases, 18th-century furniture, portraits of nobility, and a collection of seals and crests dating back to medieval times.

Dubrovnik Cathedral

The Assumption Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is the seat of the Diocese of Dubrovnik. Built on the site of several former cathedrals, including structures from the 7th, 10th, and 11th centuries, the current Baroque-style cathedral was completed in 1713.

According to legend, English king Richard the Lionheart contributed funds towards the cathedral’s construction as a votive for surviving a shipwreck near the island of Lokrum in 1192. The cathedral’s facade is adorned with four Corinthian columns and a large Baroque window with statues of saints.

Inside, visitors can admire the high nave, massive columns, and a grand Baroque dome. The main altar features a polyptych by Titian, portraying the Assumption of the Virgin, dating back to 1552. The cathedral’s treasury houses an impressive collection of 182 reliquaries, including the gold-plated arm, leg, and skull of Saint Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint.

Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Church and Monastery complex, situated on Placa, Dubrovnik’s main street, is a testament to the city’s religious heritage. Built in 1317, the monastery has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries.

The complex consists of a church, monastery, library, and pharmacy. The church’s interior, reconstructed in Baroque style after the 1667 earthquake, features a marble pulpit and a main altar created by the sculptor Celia from Ancona in 1713.

The monastery boasts two cloisters: an upper cloister in Renaissance style and a lower cloister in Romanesque-Gothic style with 120 columns and 12 massive pilasters. The library, built in the 17th century, houses over 20,000 books, including valuable manuscripts and incunables.

One of the monastery’s most notable features is its pharmacy, dating back to 1317. It holds the distinction of being the third oldest still-functioning pharmacy in the world.

Experience Local Cuisine and Nightlife

Dubrovnik offers a vibrant culinary scene and exciting nightlife, showcasing the best of Dalmatian cuisine and entertainment. Visitors can indulge in traditional dishes, dine at exceptional restaurants, and enjoy the city’s lively bars and clubs.

Traditional Dalmatian Dishes

Dalmatian cuisine is renowned for its seafood-centric dishes and Mediterranean flavors. Visitors should try the following local specialties:

1. Brodet: A tomato-based seafood stew similar to Italian brodetto or French bouillabaisse.
2. Grilled Sardines: A staple of Dalmatian cuisine, often enjoyed as part of a marenda (late Mediterranean brunch).
3. Pašticada: A traditional beef dish stuffed with vegetables and served with a sweet sauce and gnocchi.
4. Black Risotto (Crni Rizot): A delicious risotto prepared with squid ink, cuttlefish, and olive oil.
5. Peka: A slow-cooked dish of meat or seafood and vegetables, prepared under a terracotta lid.

For dessert, try rozata (rosewater-infused crème brûlée) or stonska torta (a cake made with macaroni and sweet spices).

Best Restaurants

Dubrovnik boasts numerous excellent restaurants showcasing local cuisine:

1. Kopun: Known for its signature dish of rooster in bitter orange sauce and excellent brodet.
2. Lady Pipi: The perfect spot for sampling grilled fish, a quintessential Dalmatian dish.
3. Gusta Me: A modest fish restaurant offering delicious grilled sardines.
4. Gverović Orsan: Located in Zaton Bay, this restaurant is famous for its unique take on black risotto.
5. Seosko Domaćinstvo Ficović: A local favorite in Hodilje village, known for superb wild mussels buzara-style.

For a truly authentic experience, try “Dubrovnik Eat with Locals,” where visitors can join local chef Marija on her garden terrace for a traditional peka meal.

Popular Bars

Dubrovnik’s nightlife scene offers a variety of options for visitors to enjoy:

1. Beach Bar Dodo: A family-run bar located between the fortresses of Lovrijenac and Bokar, perfect for a cold draft beer before or after swimming.
2. Café Festival: Situated in the center of Stradun, this café offers great views and live piano music in the evenings.
3. D’vino: A hidden wine bar in Old Town, offering excellent wine flights featuring Croatian wines.
4. Glam Beer Therapy: A craft beer bar with over 50 different types of beer, including local brews from Dubrovnik Beer Company.
5. Fratellos: Croatia’s first prosecco bar, located in the historic Boninovo area, offering stunning sunset views.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider joining a dinner hosted by Maria and Zlatko Papak, where visitors can enjoy traditional dishes, local wines, and grappa while socializing with other guests.

Take a Day Trip to Nearby Islands

Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island, situated just 2,000 feet southeast of Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, offers a perfect escape from the city’s bustling atmosphere. This uninhabited island, spanning 1.6 miles in length and covering an area of 0.3 square miles, is a protected nature reserve known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery.

Visitors can easily reach Lokrum Island by taking a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbor. The ferry service operates regularly throughout the day, with the first departure at 9:00 am and the last at 6:00 pm, depending on the season. A round-trip ferry ticket costs approximately 150 kunas (about 20 euros) per person.

Once on the island, visitors can explore various attractions:

1. Pigeon’s Cave: An underwater cave with deep blue water surrounded by limestone rock formations.
2. Botanical Garden: Home to hundreds of plant species and a filming location for the city of Qarth in Game of Thrones.
3. 15th-century Benedictine Monastery: Another Game of Thrones filming location, featuring an exhibition about the show’s production in Croatia.
4. Fort Royal: Offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Elaphiti Islands

The Elaphiti Islands, an archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik, comprise several islands, with Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan being the main inhabited ones. These islands provide a tranquil alternative to Dubrovnik’s lively atmosphere, showcasing lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and splendid beaches.

Each island offers unique experiences:

1. Kolocep: The closest to Dubrovnik, it features lush forests, inviting beaches, and captivating caves.
2. Lopud: Famous for Sunj Beach, one of the few sandy beaches in the region, and home to ancient churches and a grand medieval Franciscan Monastery.
3. Sipan: The largest of the three, offering a glimpse into traditional island life with its historic sites, olive groves, and vineyards.

Island Activities

Visitors to these nearby islands can engage in various activities:

1. Swimming and sunbathing: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches on both Lokrum and the Elaphiti Islands.
2. Hiking: Explore the islands’ natural beauty through well-maintained trails.
3. Historical site visits: Discover ancient churches, monasteries, and other historic landmarks.
4. Wine tasting: Sample local wines, including the robust red Plavac Mali and fragrant white Posip.
5. Boat tours: Take guided tours to explore multiple islands and enjoy swimming stops.
6. Snorkeling and diving: Experience the underwater world, especially in the calm, clear waters around Kolocep.
7. Cycling: Rent a bike on Sipan to explore the island’s countryside and villages.

Explore Dubrovnik’s Maritime Heritage

Dubrovnik’s rich seafaring history is an integral part of its cultural identity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s maritime heritage through various attractions and activities.

Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum, housed in the historic Rupe Granary, offers a fascinating glimpse into Dubrovnik’s seafaring past. It showcases exhibits that highlight the city’s naval prowess and trading significance throughout history. The museum is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during peak season and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the off-season, with Wednesdays being the designated closing day.

Old Port

The Old Port of Dubrovnik, located in the eastern part of the city, has been a hub of maritime activity for centuries. This picturesque harbor is protected by two breakwaters: Porporela in front of St. John fortress and Kaše breakwater extending across the port bay. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, admiring historic buildings and boats that reflect the port’s enduring importance.

Key features of the Old Port include:

1. Historic fortifications: St Luke Fort, St John fortress, and Revelin fortress once protected the port.
2. The Arsenal: A building with three symmetrical vaults where ships were built during the Dubrovnik Republic era, now repurposed as a restaurant with a shipyard-themed interior.
3. Porporela breakwater: A 19th-century addition that serves as a romantic walkway for couples.

During its peak in the 16th century, Dubrovnik owned over 180 large ships with a total burden of 36,000 kars (approximately 24,000 tons), valued at about 700,000 ducats. The city’s shipbuilding expertise was renowned, with vessels built “in the manner of Dubrovnik” known for their durability and strength.

Sea Kayaking Tours

For a unique perspective of Dubrovnik’s coastline, visitors can participate in sea kayaking tours. These guided excursions offer an opportunity to paddle along the city’s ancient walls and explore hidden coves and beaches. Tours typically depart from Pile Bay and include:

1. Paddling past forts and the city walls with informative commentary from guides.
2. Exploring the island of Lokrum and Betina Cave.
3. Swimming and snorkeling breaks in turquoise waters.
4. A fruit snack to refuel during the journey.

These kayaking adventures are suitable for families and individuals of all ages, providing a fun and safe way to experience Dubrovnik’s maritime landscape. Participants can enjoy views of the Old Town from the water while learning about the city’s history and coastal features.

Shop for Local Souvenirs

Dubrovnik offers a wealth of shopping opportunities for visitors seeking authentic Croatian souvenirs. From vibrant markets to specialized shops, the city provides a diverse range of products that reflect its rich cultural heritage and local craftsmanship.

Old Town Markets

The heart of Dubrovnik’s shopping experience lies in its bustling Old Town markets. The main market, located behind the Church of St Blaise in Gundulićeva poljana square, operates six days a week and offers a wide variety of local products. Visitors can find organic honeys, jams, herbs, spices, oils, and lavenders, alongside fresh produce such as tomatoes, peppers, apples, grapes, and oranges.

For those seeking a more local experience, the Gruž market focuses primarily on produce, while the lesser-known Lapad market, situated at the intersection of Mata Vodopića and Kralja Tomislava, provides ample supplies for a family day out, including naturally organic fruit and fresh bread.

Croatian Products

Croatia is renowned for its high-quality agricultural products, which make excellent souvenirs to share with friends and family. Some popular Croatian products include:

1. Olive oil: Family-run businesses produce fine quality olive oil, available in oleotecas (olive oil shops) in Old Town.
2. Wine: With 2,400 years of winemaking history, Croatia offers world-class reds and whites. Look for grape varieties such as Grasevina, Malvasia, and Plavac Mali.
3. Honey: Croatia produces 9,000 tons of honey annually, with some artisanal products flavored with lavender or sage.
4. Rakija: A brandy-like spirit unique to the Balkans, available in various fruit flavors and blends.

Artisan Crafts

Dubrovnik’s rich tradition of artisanal craftsmanship is evident in the wide range of handmade items available throughout the city. These unique, handcrafted souvenirs support local artisans and offer visitors a piece of Croatian culture to take home.

Some notable artisan crafts include:

1. Traditional jewelry: Konavle earrings made in gold or silver, and botuns (sphere-shaped buttons) transformed into bracelets, earrings, and necklaces.
2. Hand-stitched linens: Napkins, tablecloths, and table runners featuring embroidered designs in traditional colors of red, green, and black.
3. Coral jewelry: Necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings embellished with Adriatic coral.
4. Croatian lace: Designated by UNESCO as part of Europe’s intangible cultural heritage, Croatian lace is used to create beautiful tablecloths, table runners, and doilies.
5. Ceramics: Handmade ceramic crafts such as bowls, cups, vases, and ornaments are available from local artisans.

For those seeking unique souvenirs, Dubrovačka Kuća, a family-owned shop located in the middle-ages tower of St. Dominic, offers a wide range of authentic Croatian arts, crafts, and delicacies. Another notable store is Dubrovnik’s Cats, which features one-of-a-kind souvenirs crafted by local artisans, inspired by the city’s feline residents.

Conclusion

Dubrovnik’s charm lies in its ability to blend history with modern allure, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences. From exploring ancient landmarks and savoring local cuisine to island-hopping and delving into maritime heritage, the city has an influence on travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion. The diverse array of activities and sights ensures that every visitor can find something to enjoy, creating lasting memories of this Adriatic gem.

To wrap up, Dubrovnik stands out as a destination that caters to various interests, from history buffs and foodies to nature lovers and shoppers. Its well-preserved Old Town, stunning coastline, and vibrant local culture come together to create a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re walking the city walls, kayaking in turquoise waters, or picking up handcrafted souvenirs, Dubrovnik offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

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