Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic, the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik is on the southeastern coast of Croatia on the Dalmatian Coast.

Of course, Dubrovnik is famous for its Old Town with beautiful churches, palaces and monasteries. In 1667, an earthquake damaged much of Old Town, but thankfully most was preserved. Damaged again by war in the 1990’s, most of Dubrovnik has been repaired thanks to the UNESCO restoration program.

During Summer, thousands of tourists descend upon Dubrovnik as it is a very popular stop for many cruise lines. If you’ll be visiting Dubrovnik while on a cruise, be sure to check out my How to Avoid the Crowds on a Cruise.

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, be sure to check out some of my favorite things to see!

City Walls

If you only do one thing in Dubrovnik, this is it. Walk along the top of the walls surrounding the Old Town. These white limestone defenses go back to the 13th century. The wall is 2 kilometers long and has 17 towers, 5 bastions, 2 corner fortifications and the St. John Fortress. It takes about an hour to walk around the whole wall.

The views from the wall are AMAZING! Go early to avoid the crowds and the heat. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen and some water. The cost is 150 Kn for adults and 50 Kn for kids.

Old Town

The Stradum pictured above is the Main Street that runs down the middle of Old Town. Filled with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, you’ll find many of the main sights along this street such as churches, palaces, monasteries and fountains. Venture off onto some of the alleyways for some fun boutique shopping and to find off the beaten track bars and restaurants.

Church of St. Blaise

Saint Blaise is the patron saint of Dubrovnik, so it’s no wonder there’s a church in his honor! The gorgeous Baroque Church of St. Blaise is on the eastern end of the Stradum. Built in 1771 by Venetian architect Marino Gropelli, it it the main church in Dubrovnik. Don’t miss the ornate altar inside!

Clock Tower

The famous Clock Tower is a landmark in Old Town Dubrovnik. It’s located on Luža Square, next to Sponza Palace and across from the Church of St. Blaise.

Built in 1444, the tower is 131 meters high. Be sure to stand in front of the tower at noon when the bells ring!

Check out the two bronze figures, the bell strikers, on top. Due to the salty sea air, the figures have turned green. Known as the “zelenci”, the green twins, they are locally called Maro and Baro.

Cable Car

For the best view in town, ride the cable car 778 meters to the top of Mt. Srd. You’ll have the most amazing views of Old Town, the Adriatic and islands off the coast of Dubrovnik. It is only a five minute ride and costs 150 Kn for adults and 60 Kn for kids 6-12.

St. John’s Fortress

Located at the southeastern side of the wall, St. John’s Fortress protects the port of Dubrovnik. It was built because the city was vulnerable to pirate raids.

Inside the tower is a small aquarium and a maritime museum upstairs.

Cliff Diving

Not for the faint of heart, cliff diving is a favorite local pastime. Head for the cliffs near the famous Buža bar for a thrilling jump into the Adriatic!

Lokrum

The protected natural reserve of Lokrum is a small island 600 meters off the coast of Dubrovnik. You’ll find some gorgeous botanic gardens and wonderful swimming spots on the island. Rent a kayak and paddle around the many inlets and beaches.

To get there, take a 10-minute ferry ride for 50 Kn/adults and 25 Kn/kids roundtrip. Ferries start at 10 am and go every hour with the last one at 4 pm. Or, take a water taxi!

Be sure to visit the many wine bars and delicious seafood restaurants while in Dubrovnik. And try some Croatian beer, it’s really yummy (and that’s a compliment coming from a German LOL).

Leave me a comment or any questions below.

Happy travels!

XOXO

Susie