What to see in Dubrovnik

The beautiful city of Dubrovnik lies within medieval fortifications, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Historical sights include the City walls, palaces, churches, museums and galleries, while beyond the walls, you'll find beautiful beaches and islands.

We made a list of things you should definitely visit when in Dubrovnik.

1. Walk Dubrovnik City walls

Among all thing to see in Dubrovnik, the absolute must are the medieval City walls that surrounds the Old Town and can be walked in full length (2km).

Originally built in the 13th century, the walls protected the city from the outside world. The entrance fee is 35 Euros, but it's worth as you enjoy amazing views over the city's terracota roofs, hidden squares and palaces and Lokrum island. You'll capture the most amazing photos on the walls. There are 3 entrances to the walls (recommend buying Dubrovnik Pass for free entrance). With the same ticket you can visit also Lovrijenac, the fort that lies on the 37m high rock close to the Pile Bay.

2. Discover Dubrovnik's Old Town

Of course, you need to explore the Old Town, that can be easily reached by bus from other parts of Dubrovnik. Once you enter through Pile Gate, you'll find yourself on Stradun, main street that is 300m long. This cobbled street is dotted with charming boutiques, outdoor restaurants and souvenir shops.

At the end of Stradun, you'll find Luza Square with Bell Tower, the Orlando's Column standing tall in front of the Church of Saint Blaise, then smaller Onofrio's fountain. You can spend a whole day wandering streets of Old Town and discovering hidden corners.

3. Visit Lovrijenac Fortress

You'll notice Lovrijenac Fortress once you are on Pile (western entrance to the Old Town). This fortress is set on 37m high rock, near the sea. It was built at the very beginning of the 14th century. If you buy the ticket for the City walls, the entrance to Lovrijenac is included in the price. Once you climb on the fortress, you'll enjoy amazing views of the Old Town and the area.

4. Explore Lokrum island

A small boat will take you Lokrum island, a green oasis on Dubrovnik's doorstep. The island is covered with pines, palms and cypress trees. After a leisurely stroll, you can take a dip in the warm, saltwater lake and drink a beer or cocktail at the Lacroma restaurant, that conveniently overlooks the jetty. This is a popular spot for locals and tourist during hot summer days. They go for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. 

On the island, you'll also find a botanical garden from the 19th century and the ruins of the Benedictine Monastery.

A great way to see Lokrum rough coast is to take a sea-kayaking tour (good for beginners and experiences kayakers). Some companies also offer sunset tours with wine and cheese.

5. Enjoy a view from top of Mount Srdj

Don't miss stunning views from the top of Mount Srdj over the Old Town and the islands. One of the best ways to get there is to take a cable car that runs regularly throughout the day (it's short 3-minute ride). At the cablecar station, the restaurant offers the same view, along with seafood platters, cocktails and fine local wines. Otherwise, you can opt for a buggy tour that takes you from Dubrovnik to here or maybe e-tuk tuk tour, also interesting and fun.

Going at golden hour is most soothing, to see the amazing sunset over the city and the Adriatic Sea. Note that cable car closes in bad weather, so check if it is running before you go.

6. Visit Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery is situated on Stradun (when you arrive from Pile). The first church at this very spot was built at the beginning of the 14th century, but most of it was destroyed in 1667 earthquake. The only part that remained until today Gothic portal overlooking Stradun.

Enter the church to admire the interior, then the cloister with small museum (which is a great place for having a short break of sightseeing) and 3rd oldest pharmacy in the world (operating 1317).

7. Visit Sponza Palace

This iconic palace with a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, stands at the very end of Stradun, next to the Bell Tower. This building used to be the customs house and the mint dating back to the early 16th century. Now it is the State Archives.

Visitors can admire the stone carvings, ornate columns and beautiful arched ceilings. It now houses the historical archive of Dubrovnik which contains records dating back to the first half of the 11th century. Visitors can admire the stone carvings, ornate columns and beautiful arched ceilings.

While there, be sure to visit "Memorial of Dubrovnik Defenders", a room dedicated to the people died during the Homeland War (1992-1995).