When I first arrived in Dubrovnik, Croatia, I quickly understood why it’s called the Pearl of the Adriatic. Beyond the striking city walls and postcard-perfect streets, what really stayed with me were the quiet moments—swimming in hidden coves, lingering over long seafood dinners, and finding little corners of the city where time seemed to slow down. This isn’t just another checklist of tourist attractions; it’s the ultimate guide to Dubrovnik for travelers who want a balance of the iconic sights and the more local, laid-back experiences. From the best places to swim and sunbathe to my favorite restaurants, bars, and tucked-away gems, this guide blends the must-see highlights with the kind of discoveries that make Dubrovnik feel truly unforgettable.
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The 10 Best Things To Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Despite its popularity and tendency to get rather crowded during the summer months, Dubrovnik has a way of slowing you down. It’s all in the details: the early morning light on the stone walls, the shimmer of the Adriatic at midday, and the way dinner tastes better when there’s a sea view in front of you. I tend to gravitate more toward culinary and experiential moments than traditional museums, but Dubrovnik is the kind of place where you can strike a balance. Below, I’ve put together a mix of my favorite experiences that will let you really feel the city’s charm. These are my 10 best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia:
1. Walk the Old City Walls in Dubrovnik
One of Dubrovnik’s most iconic experiences is walking the Old City Walls, but timing is everything. Go early in the morning, coffee in hand, and enjoy the calm before the crowds arrive. From this vantage point, you’ll have sweeping views over the Adriatic, the terracotta rooftops, and the elegant architecture of the city.
2. Swim and Sunbathe at Banje Beach
Located just a short walk from the Old Town, Banje Beach is where the city meets the sea. With its powdery white pebbles and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s a chic spot for swimming or lounging. The view back toward Dubrovnik’s medieval walls makes it especially striking, offering that rare combination of historical backdrop and modern beach club ambiance.
3. Visit Rector’s Palace
Once the seat of the Rector who governed the Republic of Ragusa, the Rector’s Palace is an elegant mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Beyond its striking façade, the museum inside gives you a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s political and cultural past, making it one of the city’s most important landmarks.
4. Visit the West Harbor, a Quieter Corner of Dubrovnik
If you’re searching for the most photogenic corners of Dubrovnik, West Harbor delivers. This cinematic inlet, framed by ancient walls and lapping waters, is less crowded than the main tourist areas. It’s also a quiet place to take in the city’s aesthetic landscape, especially during golden hour (or early in the morning, before it gets crowded).
5. Have Cocktails (Or Mocktails) at Buza Bar
Perched dramatically on the cliffs outside the city walls, Buza Bar is legendary for its unobstructed sea views. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail, a crisp Croatian wine, or even a non-alcoholic mojito, this is one of the most atmospheric places to unwind and watch the sun melt into the horizon.
6. Swim at Plaža Sveti Jakov
For those seeking something quieter than Banje Beach, Plaža Sveti Jakov is a hidden gem. Located just beyond the bustle of the Old Town, this pebbled beach offers serene waters and panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s skyline. It’s the ideal escape for travelers who prefer a more exclusive, tucked-away vibe.
7. Visit Fort Lovrijenac
Rising dramatically on a cliff just outside the city walls, Fort Lovrijenac is steeped in history and atmosphere. Known as Dubrovnik’s “Gibraltar of the Adriatic,” it offers sweeping vistas of both the Old Town and the open sea. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates historic architecture with a cinematic edge.
8. Book a Private Boat Tour to the Elaphiti Islands
Just off the coast, the Elaphiti Islands are the epitome of Adriatic charm. Book a private or small-group boat to spend the day between sandy beaches, sleepy villages, and turquoise coves. I highly recommend booking this luxury yacht charter, which has earned all five-star reviews. It’s not just about sailing between the Elaphiti Islands—it’s about the experience of lingering at each stop, wandering through charming villages, swimming in hidden coves only accessible by boat, and enjoying the Adriatic at a slower, more luxurious pace. You’ll visit islands like Lokrum, Lopud, Kolocep, and Sipan, each with its own unique character, while traveling in complete comfort and style. I’ve also included two additional yacht charters below, that also have earned five-star reviews:
9. Enjoy a Spa Day at Dubrovnik’s Sun Gardens Resort
For an indulgent break, retreat to the Sun Gardens Dubrovnik Resort. Its spa offers luxurious treatments, serene pools, and panoramic views of the Adriatic. This would be the perfect way to recharge after days of walking, swimming, and exploring.
10. Sunset Views & Dinner at Panorama Restaurant
End your Dubrovnik journey with a memorable evening at Panorama Restaurant, perched atop Mount Srđ and accessible via cable car. As the sun sets over the Adriatic and the city’s lights begin to glow below, you’ll enjoy a dining experience that balances local flavors with breathtaking views.
Where To Swim in Dubrovnik: The Most Beautiful Beaches and Coves
Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and terracotta rooftops are world-famous, but the city’s swimming spots are just as captivating. From glamorous beaches with Old Town views to hidden caves only accessible by kayak, here are the most beautiful places to swim in Dubrovnik:
Banje Beach
Located just a short walk from Dubrovnik’s Ploče Gate, Banje Beach is the city’s most famous swimming spot. From the shore you can admire sweeping views of the Old Town and Lokrum Island while floating in turquoise water. This pebbly beach also offers sun loungers, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the best places for a stylish swim in Dubrovnik.
West Harbor (Kolorina Bay)
West Harbor sits just outside Pile Gate, framed by Fort Bokar and Fort Lovrijenac. This small, sheltered cove is known for its striking turquoise water and historic backdrop, which also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Easily reached on foot from the Old Town, it is one of the most photogenic swimming spots in Dubrovnik. This was my favorite swimming spot, by far. It’s such a beautiful little hidden gem and this is also an incredible spot to take photos with little to no crowds nearby.
Šulić Beach
Just beyond West Harbor, beneath the imposing Fort Lovrijenac, lies Šulić Beach, a favorite among locals. The small pebble cove is less crowded than Banje and offers calm, clear water ideal for swimming. Its tucked-away location within walking distance of Pile Gate makes it a relaxed, authentic alternative.
Sveti Jakov Beach
About a 20-minute walk east of the Old Town, Sveti Jakov Beach is a pebbly cove hidden beneath cliffs, with views stretching back across the Adriatic to Dubrovnik’s skyline. Known for its spectacular sunsets and quieter atmosphere, it is one of the most scenic and romantic beaches in Dubrovnik.
Danče Beach
Just a 10-minute walk west of the Old Town, Danče is one of Dubrovnik’s oldest swimming spots. Here, rocky platforms and ladders lead straight into deep, clear water beneath historic monastery walls. It is particularly striking at sunset and ideal for confident swimmers who enjoy diving into the Adriatic.
Betina Cave Beach
Accessible only by sea, Betina Cave Beach is one of Dubrovnik’s most photogenic hidden spots. Kayaks and small boats often anchor here to let visitors swim beneath the limestone archway that opens into a tiny pebble beach. Located just east of the Old Town, this cave is ideal for adventurous travelers who want something off the beaten path.
Lokrum Island
A 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port brings you to Lokrum, a lush island filled with hidden swimming coves. The highlight is the “Dead Sea,” a small saltwater lake where you can float in still emerald water surrounded by cliffs. Lokrum offers a peaceful escape from the city and some of the most unique swimming in Dubrovnik.
Pasjača Beach (Konavle)
About 30 minutes south of Dubrovnik, near the village of Popovići, Pasjača Beach is carved into dramatic cliffs and has been called one of Europe’s most beautiful secret beaches. Reached by a steep path through the rock, it rewards swimmers with complete seclusion, fine sand, and turquoise water.
Whether you prefer a glamorous beach club with views of the Old Town or a secluded cave only accessible by sea, Dubrovnik offers some of the most beautiful swimming spots on the Adriatic coast. Each location combines natural beauty with a sense of history, making every swim here unforgettable.
