Dubrovnik is a great destination for families. We were won over by the variety of experiences it offers children: nature, the sea, history, and adventure. The city does have some practical challenges, but with a little planning, you’ll all be able to enjoy it together.
Check out our ideas for things to do in Dubrovnik with kids, illustrated with photos. As a bonus, you’ll find useful tips for planning your family vacation.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Visiting Dubrovnik with Kids: Is It a Good Idea?
What age range is this city suitable for?
Dubrovnik is suitable for a wide range of ages, but conditions vary depending on the children’s needs. Families with toddlers in strollers will face real challenges: the narrow streets of the Old Town are paved with polished limestone and are often steep, and the city walls are not accessible to strollers. A baby carrier is often a better option for young children. Starting at ages 5–6, the city becomes more manageable. Walks are short, beaches are nearby, and activities like the cable car or a trip to Lokrum Island are appealing to children this age. We believe the city is ideal for children aged 7–8 and up, when they can appreciate the city walls, the historical setting, and boat trips. Teenagers, especially fans of *Game of Thrones*, will find plenty to explore here.
Why visit Dubrovnik with your family?
The city offers a wide variety of activities. In a single day, a family can stroll along the city walls in the morning, take a boat to Lokrum Island in the afternoon, and finish the day with a swim. Boat trips are also available, while the Maritime Museum or the Museum of Illusions offer indoor alternatives on hot or rainy days. In short, the Dalmatian coast, with its crystal-clear waters, islands, and cultural heritage, has everything to appeal to families.
WHERE TO STAY IN Zadar
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Historical center
Bastion Heritage Hotel – Check photos and availability
Marina de Borik
Hyatt Regency Zadar Hotel – Check photos and availability
On the coast
Hotel Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera – Check photos and availability
Our Tips Before Traveling to Dubrovnik with Your Family
We highly recommend the Dubrovnik Pass for families. It includes admission to the city walls, Fort Lovrijenac, the Maritime Museum, the Rector’s Palace, and several other municipal museums, as well as unlimited bus rides. It pays for itself after just two or three visits. More information is available on the official website here.
The summer heat in July and August can be a real challenge when traveling with children: the ramparts are exposed to the sun, and the lines are long. We recommend visiting in May, June, or September for a more comfortable family vacation. Be sure to bring shoes with non-slip soles for wet cobblestones, effective sunscreen, and plenty of water. Book tickets and tours in advance, especially for kayaking and boat cruises. Find all our suggestions for visiting Dubrovnik in our article on things to do in Dubrovnik.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
1. Lokrum Island: Peacocks Roaming Free and a Lagoon
Why visit with children?
In our opinion, Lokrum Island is a great place for families to visit from Dubrovnik. This nature reserve, just a ten-minute walk from the Old Port, is sure to delight children. We came across peacocks roaming freely among the ruins of the Benedictine monastery, an inland lagoon where you can swim in calm waters, a botanical garden founded in the 19th century, and Mediterranean vegetation to explore. The island is also well-known to *Game of Thrones* fans: the Throne Room of Qarth was filmed there, which adds an extra layer of interest for older visitors. Book your ticket to Lokrum Island now to save time!
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: half a day to enjoy it at a leisurely pace
- Hours: Shuttle boats depart from the Old Port from approximately 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the season; the island is closed in winter
- Challenges and Access for People with Limited Mobility: Natural trails that are sometimes uneven; strollers are not recommended; limited access for people with limited mobility in certain areas
- Prices: Round-trip shuttle approximately 5 to 8€; admission included in the shuttle ticket
- Directions: Shuttle buses from Dubrovnik’s Old Port, in the Old Town
- Dining: There is only one restaurant on the island, located in the monastery ruins; bring a picnic for more flexibility
- Book your ticket to Lokrum Island here now
2. The Mount Srd Cable Car: the ride up and the view of the bay
Why visit with children?
Take the Mount Srd cable car with your family. We found it to be a very enjoyable experience. The ride up to 412 meters offers breathtaking views of the orange rooftops of the old town, the Adriatic Sea, and Lokrum Island. Go up at the end of the day, when the light changes on the city walls. At the top, a bar and a panoramic restaurant let you relax and grab a snack before heading back down. Visit the official website for more information here.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: Allow at least 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Hours: The cable car is open from 9 a.m. to midnight during the summer season; reduced hours in winter
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: The cable car is accessible to people with disabilities; the summit is flat, but the fort has a few steps
- Prices: €25 round trip for adults; tax included in the ticket price
- Directions: Lower station at Petra Krešimira IV, a 10-minute walk from the Ploče Gate
- Dining: bar and panoramic restaurant at the summit
- More information on the official website here
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Croatia a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
3. The City Walls: A Tour of the Fortifications
Why visit with children?
Walking along the ramparts of Dubrovnik remains the city’s most iconic experience, and it’s perfectly doable with children. These medieval fortifications, whose construction dates back to the 14th century, encircle the Old Town for nearly 2 km. It’s a true immersion in the city’s medieval history. We recommend setting out early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and bringing plenty of water. The full tour takes about 2 hours: suitable for children ages 7–8 and up. Children under 7 years old qualify for a reduced rate of €15. The ramparts are not accessible to strollers: a baby carrier is essential for toddlers.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 2 hours for the full tour
- Hours: Open daily; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during peak season, until 3 p.m. during off-season
- Challenges and Access for People with Limited Mobility: numerous stairs and inclines; not accessible to strollers or people with limited mobility; wear sturdy shoes; avoid the hottest hours of the day in summer
- Prices: Adults €40; children over 7 years old €15; included in the Dubrovnik Pass
- Access: Several entrances, including one near the Porte Pile (west entrance) and one near Fort Revelin (east entrance)
- Take a guided tour to uncover all its secrets!
4. The pirate ship cruise to the Elaphiti Islands
Why visit with children?
Set sail aboard the Karaka, a replica of a 16th-century wooden sailing ship. This historic vessel will spark children’s imaginations. It’s also a great opportunity to explore the Elaphiti Islands. The archipelago’s three inhabited islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan) offer short stops at coves and sandy beaches. It’s also an accessible way to explore the Dalmatian coast without the hassle of logistics. Book your boat trip here .
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: full day
- Schedule: Departures from the port of Dubrovnik; check with the operator for seasonal schedules
- Access: Departures from the port of Dubrovnik
- Book your outing here now
Why visit with children?
The Dubrovnik Maritime Museum, housed in Fort St. John, is a must-see for both children and parents! Among other things, you can admire ship models there, such as the beautiful model of a *nava*, a 19th-century merchant sailing ship, crafted by Gaspar Fonelli. These three- or five-masted ships could measure between 50 and 80 meters and carry up to 4,000 metric tons of cargo. We also enjoyed seeing the old navigational instruments, maps, and weapons. In addition, the museum features a play area for children, allowing them to engage with the exhibition.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 hour
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed on Mondays
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Limited Mobility: several flights of stairs; not accessible to people with limited mobility; explanatory signs in English only
- Prices: €10; included in the Dubrovnik Pass
- Directions: Inside the Saint-Jean Fortress, in the heart of the Old City, near the Old Port
- Visit the official website for more info here.
6. Banje Beach: Swimming Beneath the Ramparts
Why visit with children?
Banje Beach is the most family-friendly beach in Dubrovnik. Located a 5-minute walk from Ploče Gate, it offers a direct view of the city walls and Lokrum Island, with exceptionally clear water. We found that its easy access from the Old Town makes it an ideal option for an afternoon of swimming. Note that Dubrovnik’s beaches are pebbly: water shoes are recommended for children. Some areas offer paid lounge chairs; part of the beach remains free to use. The beach is patrolled during peak season.
Practical advice
- Duration of the tour: 1 hour to a half-day, depending on your itinerary
- Hours: Free admission
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: pebble beach; relatively accessible from Porte Ploče; water shoes recommended for children
- Prices: Free admission; lounge chairs available for a fee in certain areas
- Directions: A 5-minute walk from Ploče Gate, outside the Old Town on the east side
- Dining: Several bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity
7. Exploring the Old Town on Foot: Stradun, Ice Cream Shops, and Narrow Streets
Why visit with children?
Strolling through Dubrovnik’s Old Town is an experience in itself, as long as you adjust the pace to suit the children. The Stradun, a wide, limestone-paved pedestrian street that runs through the city from east to west, is the lively heart of this walk. Its ice cream shops are a must-visit for kids. The Great Onofrio Fountain, dating from the 15th century, is an easily recognizable landmark that marks the start of the route. We also enjoyed leaving the Stradun to explore the narrow alleys that wind up the hillside—quieter and rich in architectural details. The Old Town is entirely pedestrian-only. Be careful, however, of the limestone cobblestones, which can be slippery in wet weather or when wearing sandals.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours for a leisurely stroll
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: cobblestone, sloping alleys; not well-suited for strollers; closed-toe shoes recommended; the Stradun is flatter and more accessible
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Directions: Main entrance via the Pile Gate to the west or the Ploče Gate to the east; bus lines 1A, 1B, 3, Pile stop
- Dining: numerous cafés, ice cream shops, and restaurants along the Stradun and in the side streets
- Take a guided tour of the city to uncover all its secrets!
8. Fort Lovrijenac and the Game of Thrones Tour
Why visit with children?
Fort Lovrijenac, perched on a rock to the west of the city walls, is a must-see in the city. We were struck by the 180° view of the sea and the walls from its terraces. What’s more, it served as the Red Keep in *Game of Thrones*. If you’re a fan—or if your teens are—try taking a tour following in the show’s footsteps. Dubrovnik served as the setting for King’s Landing in several seasons. We recognized it at first glance. The narrow streets, stairways, and medieval gates of the Old Town are instantly recognizable. A dedicated guided tour, lasting 2 to 3 hours, ensures you won’t miss any of the filming locations and gives you a behind-the-scenes look. Book your visit now to save time!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Hours: Vary by operator; tours are offered in the morning and afternoon
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: The route through the old town includes stairs and uneven surfaces; not accessible to strollers
- Prices: vary by operator; Fort Lovrijenac is included in the Dubrovnik Pass
- Directions: Fort Lovrijenac is a 5-minute walk from Pile Gate; guided tours usually depart from the Old Town
- Book your tour here now
DISCOVER Dubrovnik
9. Kayaking along the ramparts
Why visit with children?
Do you and your children enjoy sports? Go kayaking along the city walls. The route follows the walls on the Adriatic side and leads to sea caves carved into the limestone. We found that this activity offers a perspective on Dubrovnik that few other options provide. The technical difficulty is suitable for beginners, and guides accompany groups throughout the entire route. Allow 3 to 4 hours. Book your kayaking tour now to save time!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Schedule: morning departures
- Directions: Departures from the Old Town
- Book your tour here now
10. The Museum of Selfies and Illusions
Why visit with children?
The Museum of Illusions, located in the old town, is a place full of surprises. Its visual installations and interactive optical experiences will appeal to visitors of all ages. We believe this type of museum is a great complement to historical tours, offering a more playful and interactive experience. You can take some funny photos there! It’s sure to entertain the whole family. It’s also a great alternative on hot or rainy days, since the entire visit takes place indoors. Finally, the visit is reasonably short, which is perfect for children who tend to get tired quickly during museum visits.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Hours: Check on site or with the tourist office
- Prices: 9€
- Location: in Dubrovnik’s Old Town
11. The zip line over Dubrovnik
Why visit with children?
The zip line above Dubrovnik is perfect for families who love adventure and thrills. From the heights overlooking the Old Town, the activity involves gliding twice over the tiled rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. From up there, we found the view breathtaking! Book your tour now to save time!
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: The activity itself lasts a few minutes; allow 1 to 2 hours, including travel time and paperwork
- Access: from the hills overlooking the old town; transportation arranged by the tour operator
- Book your tour here now
12. The Museum of Red History
Why visit with children?
The Museum of Red History can be an interesting place to visit with the family. Housed in the former TUP graphite factory, founded in 1953 in the Gruž neighborhood, this private museum offers an immersive experience of the Yugoslav period from 1945 to 1991 through a well-designed interactive exhibition featuring documents, photos, toys, period artifacts, and recreated settings. We found that the visual and hands-on nature of the exhibition makes it easier to engage with a historical period that children generally know little about. We particularly appreciated the everyday objects and the reconstructed interiors, which allow visitors to truly step back in time—especially children!
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Hours: Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; last admission at 7:45 p.m.
- Prices: €9 for adults; €3.60 for students; free for children under 10; not included in the Dubrovnik Pass
- Directions: 3 Svetog Križa Street, Gruž neighborhood; a 30-minute walk from downtown or a 10-minute drive; bus lines 1A, 1B, 1C, 3, 3A, 7, and 8
- Food and Drink: The on-site Red Bar offers drinks and snacks after the tour
- Visit the official website for more information here.
Where to Eat in Dubrovnik with Kids
Dalmatian cuisine focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients: fish and seafood from the Adriatic, toasted bread, local olive oil, and grilled meats. This type of cuisine is generally well-suited for families, although children’s menus in the strict sense are rare in restaurants in the Old Town. There are, however, some great alternatives. Here are our recommendations:
- Barba Restaurant offers Dalmatian-style burgers to go in a relaxed atmosphere
- Holy Burek Restaurant serves burek—flaky pastries filled with meat or cheese—which are perfect for a quick and inexpensive meal.
- For a sit-down family meal in a lively yet elegant setting, the Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant overlooks the old harbor and offers a varied menu that appeals to all ages.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik with Your Family
Choosing the right neighborhood is key for a family vacation in Dubrovnik. The Old Town offers a unique immersive experience, but its cobblestone streets make it difficult to get around with a stroller. The Lapad neighborhood and the Babin Kuk peninsula, a 10-minute drive from the center, are home to large family-friendly hotels with pools, beaches, and amenities designed for children. Check out all our recommendations in our article on the best hotels and neighborhoods to stay in Dubrovnik. Here are our top three picks for families:
- Valamar Tirena Hotel: in Babin Buk, water slide, near Maro World Park, Copacabana Beach just a few minutes’ walk away. See prices, photos, and availability.
- Prijeko Palace Hotel: Located in the old town, it offers family-friendly apartments with a convenient kitchenette for families who want to prepare some of their meals on-site. A great option for families who want to stay within the old town walls. See photos, prices and availability.
- Rixos Premium Hotel: A 15-minute walk from the Old Town, private beach, swimming pool suitable for all ages, childcare services, three restaurants. See prices, photos, and availability.
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Visiting Dubrovnik with Children, Depending on the Season
Spring (April–May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Dubrovnik with your family. Temperatures range from 15 to 22°C, attractions have extended hours, and crowds remain manageable. We find that this season offers a good balance between comfort and accessibility. The lines are shorter, boat tours are already available, and the kids don’t suffer from the heat. The water is still a bit chilly for swimming, but Lokrum Island and the cable car are easily accessible.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is the busiest time of year. In July and August, cruise ships disembark thousands of visitors in the Old Town every day: the city walls, the Stradun, and the iconic sites are packed. Temperatures regularly exceed 30°C, which can make sightseeing with young children quite challenging. We recommend scheduling outdoor visits early in the morning and booking activities and accommodations several months in advance. June is a little cooler than July and August. But it’s also the time of year when the sea is most pleasant for swimming.
Fall (September–October)
September is also a very pleasant month for a family vacation. Crowds thin out significantly after August 15, temperatures remain warm—between 20 and 26°C—and the sea is perfect for swimming. We particularly enjoyed this time of year: attractions are less crowded, lodging prices drop, and the kids get to enjoy the beaches. October is still a good time for cultural activities, even though boat tours start to become less frequent.
Winter (November–March)
Winter in Dubrovnik is quiet and uncrowded. Temperatures range from 8 to 15°C, which is still mild for the season. The city walls and the Old Town are accessible with few other visitors, which can be pleasant for families who enjoy exploring at their own pace. On the other hand, several attractions are closed or operating on reduced hours. Lokrum Island is closed, boat tours are virtually nonexistent, and some museums have limited hours. Hotels, however, are less expensive, and the atmosphere in the Old Town feels more like a local experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Dubrovnik stroller-friendly?
In our opinion, Dubrovnik is a challenging city to navigate with a stroller. The Old Town is entirely paved with limestone, often on a slope, and features numerous staircases. The city walls are inaccessible to strollers. The Stradun, the Old Town’s main thoroughfare, is relatively flat and accessible, but the side streets are much less so. Outside the Old Town, the Lapad and Babin Kuk neighborhoods are more accessible, with seaside promenades and hotels that have elevators. We recommend a baby carrier for trips with very young children.
How many days should you plan to spend in Dubrovnik with children?
For a family, we recommend a minimum of three days: one day for the city walls and the Old Town, one day for a boat trip (to Lokrum or the Elaphiti Islands), and a third day for the cable car, a beach, and a museum. Two days are enough to see the highlights at a brisk pace. If you’d like to combine Dubrovnik with day trips to Mostar or Kotor, plan on at least four to five days. Check out our detailed itineraries to plan your trip: 1 day, 2 days, and 3 days in Dubrovnik.
What should you do if it rains in Dubrovnik while you’re traveling with children?
There are several options for families on rainy days. The Maritime Museum, in the Old Town, is a fun alternative for children. The Red History Museum, in the Gruž neighborhood, features an interactive exhibition. The Franciscan Monastery and the Cathedral of the Assumption are also interesting indoor stops. The cafés and restaurants along Stradun and in the side streets invite you to take a leisurely break. We found that the Old Town is less crowded on gray days and has a certain unique charm.
SHE WROTE THE ARTICLE Julie
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