Dubrovnik a week

Dubrovnik's main street, a gleaming limestone promenade lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. It's the heart of the Old Town, perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the atmosphere.

• Visit early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the polished stones without too many people.

Walk the remarkably preserved medieval walls for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and surrounding islands. The full circuit takes about 1.5-2 hours.

• Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.
• Start your walk counter-clockwise for the best light and fewer people on the narrowest sections.

A charming, family-run restaurant with a fantastic terrace offering superb views over the Old Town. Known for its grilled specialties and relaxed ambiance.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for a table with a view.

A Baroque-style church dedicated to Dubrovnik's patron saint, St. Blaise. Its impressive facade and interior are worth a visit, and it's located right on the Stradun.

Once the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa, this palace now houses a museum showcasing historical artifacts, furniture, and art from Dubrovnik's past.

• Look for the blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.

Literally meaning 'hole in the wall,' this unique bar is perched on the cliffs outside the city walls, offering stunning sunset views over the Adriatic. You can even jump into the sea from the rocks.

• Be prepared for a bit of a scramble to get there; wear appropriate footwear.
• It gets crowded; aim for an earlier evening slot.

The historic old harbor where you'll catch the ferry to Lokrum Island. Enjoy the views of the city walls from the water as you wait.

A lush, uninhabited island just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik. It's a nature reserve with botanical gardens, peacocks, ancient ruins, and beautiful rocky beaches.

• Bring your own snacks and water, as options on the island are limited and pricier.
• Explore the Benedictine monastery ruins and the Game of Thrones filming locations.

A small, salt-water lake on Lokrum Island, perfect for a refreshing dip. It's fed by underground channels from the sea.

• It's more of a large pool than a beach, but very enjoyable on a hot day.

Wander through a diverse collection of plants, including eucalyptus, palms, and cacti, set against the backdrop of ancient monastery ruins. It's a peaceful escape from the sun.

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes with a view of the sea. Located on Lokrum Island, it offers a tranquil dining experience.

A dramatic fortress perched on a rocky islet, offering spectacular views of Dubrovnik's western walls and the Adriatic. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key filming location for Game of Thrones.

• The ticket is often combined with the city walls ticket, check at the time of purchase.
• Climb to the top for the most expansive vistas.

A traditional Croatian 'konoba' (tavern) offering authentic local cuisine, including Peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood under a bell). It's a bit of a walk but worth it for the authentic experience.

• Peka often needs to be pre-ordered, so call ahead.
• Enjoy the rustic charm and local wine.

Ascend Mount Srđ for unparalleled, sweeping views of Dubrovnik's Old Town, the coastline, and the Elaphiti Islands. The ride itself offers a unique perspective.

• Go during the late afternoon for a magical sunset experience.
• Visit the Homeland War Museum at the top if interested in recent history.

Located at the summit of Mount Srđ, this fort played a crucial role during the Croatian War of Independence. It now houses a museum dedicated to the war and offers further panoramic views.

A luxurious dining experience with stunning sea views, located just outside the Pile Gate. Known for its exquisite seafood and fine dining.

• Book well in advance for a table with a view.
• Dress code is smart casual.

Dubrovnik's most famous beach, located just outside the Ploče Gate. It offers stunning views of the Old Town and Lokrum Island, with amenities like sun loungers and a beach bar.

• Can get crowded; consider renting a sun lounger for comfort.
• Offers water sports and a lively atmosphere.

Located right on Banje Beach, this restaurant offers a convenient spot for lunch with sea views. Serves a range of Mediterranean dishes.

A more secluded and picturesque beach located about a 20-minute walk east of Banje Beach. It's known for its clear waters and tranquil setting, with the Church of St. James overlooking it.

• Requires descending a long set of stairs, so be prepared.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks as facilities are limited.

A delightful spot within the Old Town to cool down with artisanal gelato. Perfect for a sweet treat after a day at the beach.

Explore the charming Ottoman-era old town of Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage site that was rebuilt after the Bosnian War. Witness the traditional bridge diving.

• Consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical insights.
• The bridge diving is a traditional spectacle; be prepared to tip the divers.

Enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting near the Old Bridge. Famous for its ćevapi and Bosnian pot.

Browse the stalls of the Old Bazaar for traditional crafts, copperware, carpets, and souvenirs. It's a lively area with a distinct Ottoman feel.

A magnificent Baroque cathedral built on the site of earlier churches. It houses a treasury with relics, including what is believed to be a fragment of the True Cross.

Home to one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, established in 1317. The monastery complex also features a beautiful cloister and a library with rare manuscripts.

• The pharmacy is still operational, though mainly for display.
• The cloister is a peaceful oasis.

A historic restaurant in the Old Town, renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes. It offers an elegant dining experience.

• Try their signature lobster or grilled fish.

Showcases a collection of Croatian and international modern and contemporary art. Housed in a beautiful building with sea views.

A charming, local restaurant a bit outside the main tourist path, offering authentic Dalmatian home cooking and fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere.

• Known for its friendly service and reasonable prices.

A charming seaside town south of Dubrovnik, known for its picturesque harbor, pine forests, and historic villas. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Dubrovnik.

• Take a scenic boat ride from Dubrovnik's Old Port.
• Visit the Mausoleum of the Račić family, designed by Ivan Meštrović.

Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties with a view of Cavtat's harbor. A popular spot for a leisurely lunch.

Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Cavtat, lined with cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Enjoy the sea breeze and the views of boats in the bay.

Last-minute souvenir shopping within the Old Town. Look for local crafts, olive oil, or lavender products.