A week in Dubrovnik is the ideal amount of time to explore the city in depth and venture out into the surrounding area. Between the medieval city walls, the Baroque Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the museums, the Adriatic beaches, and day trips to the Croatian islands, there’s plenty to do. We’ve put together this itinerary to balance culture, nature, and relaxation over seven days.
With our itineraries, we’ll guide you through Dubrovnik. Make the most of your stay and form your own opinion of this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Practical Tips for Visiting Dubrovnik in One Week
What can you see in Dubrovnik in one week? Is that long enough?
A week is enough time to see everything: the city walls, the Old Town, museums, beaches, Lokrum Island, and to take a day trip to the Elaphiti Islands or the town of Cavtat. It’s the ideal length of time to enjoy Dubrovnik at a leisurely pace.
Map of must-see attractions
To help you find your way around our itinerary below, here’s our map of Dubrovnik’s main tourist attractions:
To avoid lines at the main attractions, the Dubrovnik Pass is a good investment for a week. It includes access to the city walls, Fort Lovrijenac, the Rector’s Palace, the Maritime Museum, MOMAD, and several other municipal museums, as well as unlimited use of city buses. The 1-day pass costs €40 and the 3-day pass costs €50 . All information is available on the official Dubrovnik Pass website here.
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Getting around Dubrovnik
The Old Town can be explored entirely on foot: it is a pedestrian zone closed to vehicles. To reach outlying neighborhoods such as Lapad or Gruž, the city bus system is efficient and inexpensive. Lines 1A and 1B connect the Pile stop to the port of Gruž and the Lapad neighborhood. Tickets can be purchased from the driver for about €2, or are included in the Dubrovnik Pass. If you’ve rented a car, the closest parking lot to Pile Gate is the Ilijina Glavica Parking Lot (about €5/hour). During peak season, parking spaces are scarce: it’s best to park in an outlying neighborhood and take the bus into the city center. Read our article on where to park in Dubrovnik for more information.
Where to sleep in Dubrovnik
When it comes to accommodations, there are several neighborhoods to choose from. In the Old Town or right nearby, you’ll be closest to the sights, but prices are higher. The Lapad neighborhood, 4 km to the west, offers more spacious hotels, along with beaches and restaurants, all in a more local atmosphere. Check out our full selection of the best hotels and neighborhoods to stay in Dubrovnik.
WHERE TO STAY IN Dubrovknik
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Old Town –
Hotel Villa 5DB – check photos and availability
Lapad and Babin Kuk –
Hotel Royal Neptune – check photos and availability
North Shore –
Hôtel Ninon Bed & Breakfast – check photos and availability
Ploče District –
Excelsior Hotel – check photos and availability
Our Ideal Itinerary: 1 Week in Dubrovnik
Here is our seven-day itinerary for Dubrovnik: the must-see heritage sites starting on the first day, a day of culture and history, a day of sports and the beach, a trip to Lokrum Island, a relaxing day in Lapad, and two days of excursions to nearby destinations.
Day 1: Old Town and City Walls
The first day is devoted to Dubrovnik’s must-see sights: the medieval city walls, the Baroque Old Town, Lovrijenac Fortress, and the panoramic view from Mount Srd. It’s a packed itinerary, but one that can be covered in a well-organized day.
Stop 1: The City Walls
The day begins on the ramparts as soon as they open at 9 a.m. These medieval fortifications, built in the 14th century, completely encircle the old town for nearly 2 km. From the top of the walls, the views of the orange-tiled rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands are breathtaking. The loop trail allows you to see the city from every angle, both toward the sea and inland. We recommend visiting early in the morning: the light is perfect and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. Allow about 2 hours for the entire tour. Admission is €40 for adults and is included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Find all our tips in our article dedicated to the Dubrovnik city walls here.
Stop 2: The Old Town and the Stradun
After exploring the heights of the city walls, head down to lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. This labyrinth of white limestone, bustling squares, and Baroque facades reveals new surprises at every turn. We especially enjoyed leaving the Stradun—the main pedestrian thoroughfare—to explore the narrow alleys that wind up the hillside, which are quieter yet just as interesting. Don’t miss the Great Onofrio Fountain, dating from the 15th century, or the Renaissance palaces that line the route. Allow about 1 hour and 30 minutes for a leisurely stroll. Admission is free and open to the public from Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. Read our article on Dubrovnik’s Old Town here.
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Stop 3: Lovrijenac Fortress
Perched on a 37-meter-high rock west of the city center, Fort Lovrijenac is one of the most striking landmarks in the city’s skyline. Built in the 11th century to defend the city against Venetian attempts to seize the bay, it bears the Latin inscription “Non bene pro toto libertas venditur auro” (“Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold in the world”). Fans of the Game of Thrones series will recognize it as the setting for the Red Keep in King’s Landing. The 180° view of the sea and the ramparts from its terraces is well worth the visit. Take a Game of Thrones guided tour —which includes the fort as a stop—to immerse yourself in the cult series.
Stop 4: Take the cable car up to Mount Srd
To wrap up this first day from the heights, Mount Srd—which rises to 412 meters—is, in our opinion, the viewpoint you won’t want to miss. A cable car takes you from the Old Town to the summit in just a few minutes. At the top, the Imperial Fortress houses a museum dedicated to the Croatian War of Independence. A bar and a restaurant with panoramic views let you linger a while before heading back down for dinner. Price: €25 round-trip, including admission to the fort. The lower station is located on Petra Krešimira IV Street, a 10-minute walk from Ploče Gate. For more information, visit the official website of the Dubrovnik cable car here.
Day 1 Dinner
For your first dinner, Restaurant 360 is a must-visit Michelin 1-star gourmet restaurant, located on the ramparts with a terrace overlooking the old port (expect to pay 150 to 200€ per person; make a reservation here). For another restaurant with a sea view that’s elegant yet a bit less formal, we think Restaurant Nautika is a great option.
Day 2: Architectural and Religious Heritage
The second day is devoted to Dubrovnik’s architectural and religious heritage: the Baroque Cathedral, the Franciscan Monastery, Sponza Palace, and the Rector’s Palace make up a cultural tour through the heart of the Old Town.
Stop 1: The Cathedral of the Assumption and its treasury
We suggest you start your day at the Cathedral of the Assumption, built between the 17th and 18th centuries in the Baroque style. We found its treasury well worth seeing: gold and silver reliquaries, a polyptych attributed to Titian, and a reliquary containing the skull of Saint Blaise, the city’s patron saint. Admission to the cathedral is free; a visit to the treasury costs €4 (cash only; shoulders must be covered). Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Stop 2: The Franciscan Monastery
Tucked just inside the Pile Gate, we enjoyed exploring the Franciscan Monastery. Founded in the 14th century, it houses one of Croatia’s oldest Romanesque-Gothic cloisters, whose finely carved double columns create a serene atmosphere. The adjoining museum houses illuminated manuscripts and religious paintings. The site is also home to one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies still in operation, which has been open since 1317. Admission is included with the Dubrovnik Pass.
Stop 3: The Sponza Palace and War Photo Limited
The Sponza Palace is one of the few buildings to have survived the 1667 earthquake. This 16th-century Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece is, in our opinion, one of the finest in the Old Town: its facade, punctuated by arcades, and its loggia make it a must-see. We were struck by the elegance of the entire structure. Just a few steps away, the War Photo Limited gallery features photojournalism exhibitions on contemporary conflicts, presented with a committed artistic approach. It’s a spot off the beaten path that really makes you think.
Stop 4: The Rector’s Palace
The Rector’s Palace is one of the most representative examples of Gothic-Renaissance architecture in Dubrovnik. Formerly the seat of government of the Republic of Ragusa, it was home to the elected rector, whose term lasted only one month. Its collections trace the history of this city-state through period furniture, official portraits, and ancient coins. We were particularly impressed by the loggia with its ornate columns and the carved details of the capitals, which you can see from the outside.
Day 2 Dinner
For this second dinner, we recommend two great places. Zuzori Restaurant offers elegant cuisine featuring fish and seafood from the Adriatic in a refined setting. For a more creative dining experience, Pjerin Restaurant is a sophisticated Mediterranean spot, perfect for an evening out after a day of cultural sightseeing.
Day 3: Sports, the beach, and a museum
The third day features a mix of sports, culture, and swimming. Kayaking in the morning, a museum visit in the early afternoon, followed by a trip to the beach, and then a zip line ride at sunset: a varied itinerary that showcases the many facets of Dubrovnik.
Stop 1: Kayaking along the ramparts
The morning begins on the water. The kayak tour departs from the Old Town, follows the city walls along the Adriatic coast, and heads toward sea caves carved into the limestone cliffs. Suitable for beginners and led by guides, we think this is a unique way to explore Dubrovnik from the sea, gaining access to coves that are inaccessible on foot. Allow 3 to 4 hours. We recommend booking your kayaking trip in advance, especially during peak season.
Stop 2: MOMAD, the Dubrovnik Museum of Modern Art
Once back on land, stop by the Dubrovnik Museum of Modern Art (MOMAD), located in Villa Banac. It features works by Croatian artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. We found the visit interesting for anyone who wants to discover local art beyond the city’s medieval and Baroque heritage. The museum is included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Allow about 1 hour.
Stop 3: Swimming at Banje Beach
A 2-minute walk from MOMAD, you’ll find Banje Beach, Dubrovnik’s most famous beach. It offers views of the city walls and Lokrum Island, with crystal-clear water. It’s a great spot for a mid-afternoon swim before the evening’s activities. Admission is free, although some areas offer lounge chairs for a fee.
Stop 4: Zip Line at Sunset
To wrap up this active day, take a zip-line ride over Dubrovnik at sunset. You’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the bay and the Old Town. We recommend booking your zipline ride in advance to ensure you get a spot at your preferred time.
Dinner on Day 3
After this active day, you have two options for dinner. Bura Bistro & Bar offers creative cuisine made with local ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere, with good value for the price. For a truly unique experience, the “Dinner in the Sky” in Dubrovnik lets you dine suspended from a crane dozens of meters in the air, with a panoramic view of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. It’s an unforgettable way to wrap up this third day.
DISCOVER Dubrovnik
Day 4: Lokrum Island and Culture
The fourth day combines a morning trip to Lokrum Island with visits to two cultural museums in the afternoon. It’s a well-balanced itinerary that combines nature with exploring the local heritage.
Stop 1: A Trip to Lokrum Island
Just 600 meters off the coast of the Old Town, Lokrum Island is a nature reserve that can be reached in about ten minutes by shuttle from the Old Port. Covered with pine trees, centuries-old olive trees, and Mediterranean plants, it is home to a botanical garden founded in the 19th century by Archduke Maximilian of Austria. We were charmed by the peacocks roaming freely among the ruins of the Benedictine monastery. Plan on spending half a day there. Find all the excursions to Lokrum here. It’s also possible to get there by shuttle from the harbor.
Stop 2: The Rupe Ethnographic Museum
Back on the mainland, start the afternoon with a visit to the Rupe Ethnographic Museum, housed in a former 16th-century grain silo (Od Rupa 3). We found the building itself remarkable: its grain silos carved into the rock on the ground floor bear witness to the economic organization of the Republic of Ragusa. The upper floors feature Dalmatian folk costumes, embroidered textiles, and handicrafts. We enjoyed the collection and the lovely view of the old town from the upper floors.
Stop 3: The Maritime Museum
Housed in Fort Saint-Jean, the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum traces the history of local seafaring from antiquity through the 20th century through more than 5,000 artifacts. Ship models, antique maps, and navigational instruments make up an exhibition accessible to all. The models of large merchant sailing ships are particularly impressive, especially that of a 19th-century nava, which could measure up to 80 meters. We found this visit to be a great complement to our day on Lokrum, as it helps visitors understand the maritime history of the Republic of Ragusa. Check out our tips in our article dedicated to the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum.
Dinner on Day 4
For this fourth dinner, we think Proto Fish Restaurant is an excellent choice for lovers of fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic, set in a charming location near the harbor. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet evening after a busy day.
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Day 5: Lapad, Forest Park, and Relaxation
Day five is a chance to slow down. Head to the Lapad neighborhood, 4 km west of downtown, for a stroll through its wooded park, a swim at one of its beaches, and a visit to the Museum of Red History in the neighboring Gruž neighborhood.
Stop 1: Walk through Lapad Forest Park
The Lapad Peninsula offers shaded paths that are ideal for a leisurely stroll, far from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. We found the atmosphere here to be decidedly more local: the waterfront is pleasantly wooded, and the café terraces are less crowded with tourists. It’s also a chance to discover Dubrovnik from a different perspective—one that’s more residential and peaceful.
Stop 2: Uvala Beach or Buža Beach
For an afternoon swim, there are two options depending on your preference. Uvala Beach is easily accessible from the Lapad neighborhood and is a great spot for a break after a walk. Buža Beach, accessible through a passageway cut into the sea-facing city walls, offers a more rugged setting with rocky shores and a less touristy atmosphere. Note that most of Dubrovnik’s beaches are pebble beaches.
Stop 3: The Museum of Red History
In our opinion, the Museum of Red History is one of the most unique attractions in the city. 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. We found the room dedicated to Goli Otok, the prison island of the communist era, particularly striking. Not included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Admission: €9 for adults. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Check out our tips in our dedicated article.
Dinner on Day 5
Since you’re in the Lapad neighborhood, take the opportunity to have dinner there. Restaurant Pantarul is our top recommendation here: this “bistronomic” bistro serves creative cuisine made with local ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere, far from the tourist hustle and bustle of the city center.
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Day 6: Excursion to the Elaphiti Islands or Cavtat
Day 6 is set aside for an excursion in the Dubrovnik area. There are two options to choose from, depending on your preferences: the Elaphiti Islands for a day at sea exploring coves and quiet villages, or Cavtat for a seaside and historical getaway 18 km to the south.
Option A: Cruise to the Elaphiti Islands
A few nautical miles northwest of Dubrovnik, the Elaphiti Archipelago consists of three inhabited islands: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. Their wild coves and quiet villages offer a pleasant contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. We particularly liked Lopud, which boasts sandy beaches—a rarity along this coastline. A regular ferry or an organized tour is all you need for a wonderful day of escape.
Option B: A Day Trip to Cavtat
Cavtat, located 18 km south of Dubrovnik, is a 20-minute boat ride from the Old Port. This small town features a tree-lined waterfront, Venetian palaces, and a much more peaceful atmosphere than the Old Town. We found it particularly pleasant for a relaxing day trip outside of the peak tourist season. Check out all our recommendations in our guide to the best day trips from Dubrovnik.
Day 7: Blue Grotto Tour
To wrap up the week, we recommend a trip to the Blue Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in the region.
Option A: The Blue Cave
The Blue Cave (Modra špilja) is located on the island of Bisevo. Sunlight filters through an underwater opening and bathes the interior in an intense blue glow, especially at midday on clear days. It’s an amazing light phenomenon to witness. We recommend booking this tour in advance.
Day 7 Farewell Dinner
To wrap up this week-long stay, Restaurant 360 is our top pick for a memorable farewell dinner: this one-Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, perched on the city walls, offers views of the old port and high-quality Mediterranean cuisine. For a unique and spectacular experience, “Dinner in the Sky” remains an unforgettable option to end the week high above the city!
Alternative 1: Dubrovnik with children
Dubrovnik is a great destination for a family vacation. Between the peacocks roaming freely on Lokrum Island, the cable car up Mount Srd, the Maritime Museum, and ice cream on Stradun, kids will have no trouble finding things to do. Here’s our selection of activities and places suitable for all ages.
Family activities
- A Day Trip to Lokrum Island: Just a 10-minute shuttle ride from the Old Port, this nature reserve is a big hit with kids thanks to its free-roaming peacocks, its seawater lake perfect for swimming, and the ruins of a Benedictine monastery to explore. Find all the excursions to Lokrum here.
- Mont Srd cable car: the ascent to 412m offers views of the entire old town and the Adriatic Sea. Children love the ride itself. Price: €25 return.
- Karaka Pirate Ship Cruise to the Elaphiti Islands: a sea excursion aboard an authentic wooden sailboat to the Elaphiti archipelago. A fun way to explore the Dalmatian coastline that kids will love. Book your pirate cruise here.
- Swimming at Banje Beach: Easily accessible just outside Ploče Gate, it offers views of the city walls and clear water. A relaxing experience for the whole family. Read our dedicated article here.
Places to visit with the family
- Museum of Illusions: located in the old town, this interactive museum offers visual experiences and playful installations that appeal to children and adults alike.
- Maritime Museum: Located in Fort Saint-Jean, its ship models and antique navigational instruments appeal to visitors of all ages. Admission: €10, included in the Dubrovnik Pass. Check out our article on the Maritime Museum.
- The Stradun and its ice-cream parlors: a must-see break on this limestone-paved pedestrian thoroughfare, ideal for taking a breather with the family.
Where to eat with the family
- Restaurant Barba: a street food address renowned for its Dalmatian-style takeaway burgers in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Restaurant Holy Burek: burek, puff pastries filled with meat or cheese, ideal for a quick, local and economical meal.
- Restaurant Gradska Kavana Arsenal: a café and restaurant overlooking the old port, whose varied cuisine and lively atmosphere are ideal for a family evening out.
Option 2: More field trips
Dubrovnik is an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Split: here are three day trips that we consider to be among the best combinations of cultural heritage and scenery in the region.
Kravica waterfall, Mostar and Počitelj: a day in Bosnia
We also recommend a trip to Bosnia. The Kravica Waterfall will impress you with its turquoise pools. Mostar, about a 2.5-hour drive away, is known for its 16th-century Ottoman Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. The medieval fortified village of Počitelj rounds out the itinerary. On a guided tour, the tour operator handles border crossings, which greatly simplifies logistics. We recommend booking your day trip to Bosnia in advance.
Kotor and Perast: the jewels of Montenegro
Kotor, in Montenegro, is about a 2-hour drive from Dubrovnik (85 km). Its Venetian old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by ramparts that climb up the mountainside. On the way, a stop in Perast is a must, thanks to its two artificial islets and Baroque palaces. We consider this excursion one of the best combinations of cultural heritage and scenery in the region. The scenery of the Bay of Kotor is among the most beautiful we’ve seen in the Mediterranean. Book your tour of Kotor and Perast in advance.
Split: a Roman city within easy reach
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is about a 3.5-hour drive (225 km) away. We were captivated by the city’s beauty and history. Its historic center is built within the Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman imperial residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site, where narrow streets, restaurants, and residential apartments coexist in a compact space. We recommend this excursion to anyone looking to round out their Dalmatian vacation with a visit to a city of a completely different character. The two destinations complement each other well over the course of a week. Find options to book your excursion to Split from Dubrovnik here.
What you need to know for your stay in Dubrovnik
The weather in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild winters. In July and August, temperatures reach 28 to 32°C. Spring (May, June) and autumn (September, October) offer more pleasant temperatures, between 18 and 24°C, and remain the best times to visit the city on foot. In winter, temperatures fluctuate between 8 and 15°C, and the city takes on a more local and tranquil atmosphere. We particularly appreciate this season for the quality of the light and the quietness of the alleyways.
The crowds in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean. In July and August, the city walls, the Stradun, and other iconic sites are very crowded, particularly because of the cruise ships that disembark thousands of visitors every day. We recommend visiting in May, June, or September for a more comfortable experience. Also, arriving early in the morning at the city walls and museums will help you avoid the lines. Be sure to book your tickets in advance during peak season. Outside of this period, accommodation prices drop significantly.
Adjusting Your Itinerary When It Rains
On rainy or windy days, there are several options available to you. The Red History Museum, MOMAD, the Maritime Museum, the Rupe Ethnographic Museum, and the Rector’s Palace are all great options for a morning spent indoors. The Franciscan Monastery, the War Photo Limited gallery, and the Love Stories Museum are also interesting stops on overcast days. The cafés and restaurants along the Stradun and in the side streets invite you to stroll at a leisurely pace. We found that the Old Town actually has a special charm on gray days: the streets are less crowded, and the atmosphere is more intimate.
To prepare your stay in the best conditions, find all our suggestions in our guide to what to do in Dubrovnik, our guide to the best excursions from Dubrovnik and our selection of the best hotels and areas to stay in Dubrovnik.
