For centuries Dubrovnik was the independent Republic of Ragusa, and its old town – encircled by almost two kilometres of fully walkable city walls – has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Marble lanes, Baroque churches and fortresses above the deep-blue sea make Dubrovnik Croatia's most famous city, with all the pros and cons of a global destination.
At a glance
Region
South Dalmatia
From Split
approx. 230 km, no border crossing since the Pelješac Bridge
Airport
Dubrovnik (Čilipi), approx. 20 km
UNESCO
old town since 1979
City walls
2026: €40 adults, €15 children (incl. Lovrijenac)
Best time to visit
April, May, October
Sights
City walls a circuit of about 1.9 km with views over the rooftops; go early or late afternoon, little shade
Stradun (Placa) main street of polished limestone between the Pile and Ploče gates
Fort Lovrijenac on a rock outside the walls, included in the walls ticket
Rector's Palace and Sponza Palace legacies of the Republic of Ragusa
Cable car up Srđ views over the old town and the Elaphiti Islands, Homeland War museum
Beaches
Banje sits right outside the Ploče gate with old-town views but is pricey and crowded. The Lapad peninsula has Sunset Beach and rocky spots under pines; for quieter swimming go to Lokrum island or rocky coves such as Sveti Jakov. Day trips lead to the car-free Elaphiti Islands of Koločep, Lopud and Šipan.
Honest verdict
On days with several cruise ships the old town is packed between 9 am and 2 pm; the city now limits ship numbers. Accommodation and restaurants in the old town are among the most expensive in Croatia. Staying in Lapad, Gruž or Cavtat saves money – visit the old town in the morning and evening.
In 2026 admission is €40 for adults and €15 for children, including Fort Lovrijenac. A one-day Dubrovnik Pass costs the same and adds museums and buses.
Do you have to drive through Bosnia to reach Dubrovnik?
No, since 2022 the Pelješac Bridge bypasses the Neum corridor.
When is Dubrovnik least crowded?
In April, May, October and winter, and generally early in the morning and in the evening.
