EPIC SITES TO VISIT
Whether you’re visiting Dubrovnik for a short stay or longer, you will want to see the popular sites. There are many epic things to see and do which can be covered in one day in Dubrovnik. This small seaside town, located in south eastern Croatia, will win you over with its scenic views, historic monuments and charming personality.
Often referred to as ‘the pearl in the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik has emerged as a super-popular tourist destination, and for good reason. I visited in April during my travels around the Mediterranean to find out what all the excitement is about, and was suitably impressed by this beautiful ancient maritime city.
The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely the main attraction here. It is one of the best preserved medieval centres in the world.
It’s just a short distance to the Old Town by taxi, uber or bus from Dubrovnik Airport or Dubrovik Port. Alternatively, a 30 minute walk from the port.
In fact the entire Old Town is very walkable, designed for pedestrians, and not too big, making it perfect to see all the top attractions in a day in Dubrovnik.
The Old Walls are the highlight of the city and are not to be missed. Walking through the imposing Pile Gate and on to the top of the city walls which enclose the Old Town, you will enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the sea on one side, and the distinctive terracotta roof tops of the city on the other.
The towering walls and ramparts soar high above the turquoise waters which crash onto the rocks below in dramatic fashion. The jaw-dropping vista will mesmerise you as you walk around the perimeter, stopping frequently to take it all in and capture the stunning views on camera.
The Build
Erected over a long period of 3 centuries, by the 16 century the defensive walls were completed. In most parts they are double walls, almost 2 kilometres in length, and reach a height of up to 25 metres in some sections. These impressive walls include turrets and towers, forts and moats. Built with the help of many European tradesmen, using the best materials available, the historic walls are a testimony to their enduring legacy and are a great source of pride for the people of Dubrovnik.
Walking the Walls
Some parts of the walking areas are quite narrow, whilst other sections are very wide. There are a lot of stairs, as is to be expected.
I would suggest avoiding the busy periods – peak tourist season, summer, middle of the day – as the walkways can become quite congested.
It will take over an hour to walk the walls in full.
There are several points to enter and exit the walls. Please note, once you leave the Walls you won’t be able to re-enter.
Fortresses
There are no less than 5 imposing fortresses, strategically built around the walls.
St John’s Fortress, which now houses a maritime museum, and Lovrijenac Fortress, which is now used as a theatre can both be visited. Revelin Fortress is also used for concerts, as is Fort Bokar. Minceta Fortress, the huge round structure, offers the highest viewpoint of the Walls.
Tickets
You must buy a ticket to walk the walls, which I highly recommend, as it is well worth the cost. You have the option of getting a ticket for the city walls and the fortresses included.
You can purchase tickets online or upon arrival near the main gate of the Old Wall.
The Stradun (Placa) is the centre promenade, running through the heart of the the Old Town. A limestone street lined with ancient buildings and bursting with cafes, restaurants, shops and souvenir outlets. It’s one of the most popular parts of the city to visit and soak up the atmosphere.
Visit some of the historic landmarks along this thoroughfare and you will spend a large part of the day here.
Strictly pedestrians only, the Stradun gets very busy in the middle of the day.
Back streets of Dubrovnik Old Town
Venture off this main thoroughfare and explore some of the side streets and alleys to discover hidden gems. You’ll find an array of restaurants, shops, and cute nooks, as well as homes and balconies of locals as you wander throughout the labyrinth of lanes and alleys that are a true delight.
A baroque style Church which has a large dome towards the back and statues at the front. Located in the Old Town along the Stadun, the Basilica was completed in early 1700’s and is the pride of the city.
It boasts a treasury with a collection of religious relics and paintings of the history of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the city.
The Dubrovnik Cathedral is an important landmark, and may require a small donation to enter.
The Rector was the head of the Republic and this was his residence as well as the administrative office. The Rector was responsible for the keys to the town gates.
This Gothic-Renaissance style building has also served as an armoury, a prison and now a Museum.
The Museum displays Dubrovnik’s heritage and houses antique furnishings, famous artwork, coins and a collection of arms.
The Rector’s Palace is also a music venue for performances. It is one of the most famous landmarks of the city, also located on the Stradun.
A ticket is required for entry.
This Monastery is a beautiful landmark of Dubrovnik’s history, founded in the 1300s. The Museum houses valuable paintings of historic local artists, jewellery, and religious relics, from the city’s rich history.
Completed in the 14th century, the Monastery and Church of St Dominics is of simple Gothic design. The stunning cloister and central garden courtyard provide a quiet refuge for reflection.
The Franciscan Church is also a monastery, but the fascinating aspect about this site is the compound houses the oldest pharmacy still in operation in Europe, since 1317, although it would have been known as an apothecary. Here they would produce medicines for the monks, and later was opened to the public.
The Museum showcases artefacts of pharmaceutical tools, mortars, scales, large grinders and lab equipment that was used in the past.
You can even purchase products and cures for ailments made according to ancient Franciscan recipes and various organic cosmetics.
The complex also has a library and two cloisters, an upper and a lower.
Useful Info About Dubrovnik
Official name – Stari grad Dubrovnik.
Population – Approximately 50,000.
Languages spoken – Mainly Croatian, some English.
Currency – Now the Euro, changed from the Kuna in 2023. Croatia loves cash.
Tipping – Not widely accepted, but appreciated.
Public transport – No trains, only buses.
Public bathrooms – May charge 1 Euro.
Tourists – More than a million people visit each year.
General tourist information – Dubrovnik Tourist Board.
More Things to See and Do in Dubrovnik
If you have more time during your one day in Dubrovnik, or plan to stay a couple of days, other things to do here are:
- See Sponza Palace – the old Customs House and a function venue.
- Visit Church of St Blaise – home of the Patron Saint.
- Use the Onofrio Water Fountain – huge ornate water tank near Old Town main entrance.
- Climb the Jesuit Steps – Mini Spanish Steps of Rome.
- Explore the Marina – walk through the arched doorway from the Old Town to waterfront restaurants.
- Take a Ferry Shuttle – around Dubrovnik and islands, (only available during peak season).
- Visit Lokrum Island – botanical gardens, a monastery and views of the city walls.
- Enjoy the beaches – Copacabana and Banje are popular.
- Ride a Cable Car at Srd Hill – for views of the Old City, Adriatic and islands from the summit.
- Go to Fort Imperial – atop Srd Hill is the Homeland War Museum.
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17 Comments
We keep hoping to make it to Dubrovnik one day. It looks fantastic and I appreciate eveything you shared here!
The Old City and Luza Square seem incredible! I love how picturesque Croatia is.
I loved the cats of Dubrovnik. My favorite part was cuddling felines in the walled city. I ❤️ Croatia!
Dubrovnik is definitely a beautiful city. Highly recommend visiting in the off season to avoid the crowds.
I loved the post. Thank you for sharing these practical tips.
Hi, I visited Dubrovnik some years ago. Nice memories Thanks for sharing this useful guide.
Dubrovnik sounds like a dream! I love walkable cities, especially with such rich history.
It’s so helpful to have a one-day itinerary laid out, especially for busy moms like me. I can’t wait to share this with my family and plan our trip.
Love to visit Dubrovnik. Thanks for your practical tips!
Oooh walking the walls of Dubrovnik looks incredible! I think I would love it early in the morning before it gets too busy. I love the contrast of the yellow stonework against the bright blue sea!!
I have Croatian ancestry and have always wanted to go to Dubrovnik. This looks like a dream trip! I love your photos. What a beautiful place.
I’ve heard a lot about Croatia but I had no idea it is that gorgeous omg…I can’t wait to visit it now, soon soon soon…Such a beautiful country.
My son is stationed in Italy right now, and he’s been to Croatia a few times now. He never described it as well as you did!
Until I read this, Croatia had never been on my radar. I had no idea it was so gorgeous there!
I have read so many things about Croatia and it is definitely a place I would love to visit
You absolutely made the most of your day in Croatia! It looks like there are tons of historical places to visit.
This town looks like the Rome of Croatia! Added this one to the bucket list.