The Ultimate Guide to Dubrovnik, Croatia

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.

Quick tips for visiting dubrovnik

Thankfully, Dubrovnik is very walkable, and most of the streets are flat. For sightseeing or visiting places that are a bit too far to walk, I recommend booking private transportation day trips through a company called DayTrip, or using Uber Black, which is also available.

While summer is obviously the busiest time to visit, I would say this is the best time to visit Dubrovnik because of its several areas to swim, sunbathe, and go island-hopping around Croatia overall. Alternatively, visiting outside peak summer (especially in September–October) offers cooler, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

3–4 days in Dubrovnik is the perfect amount of time. This lets you explore the Old Town and city walls, visit key landmarks, and dedicate one day to a boat tour—either to Lokrum Island or the nearby Elaphiti Islands. If you have an extra day, you can add a day trip or simply relax by the sea at Banje Beach.

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.

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.

Lapad Beach

Set on the Lapad Peninsula, about 10 minutes by bus or taxi from the Old Town, Lapad Beach is one of Dubrovnik’s most popular resort-style swimming areas. The wide bay is lined with pine trees, beach clubs, and promenades, offering calm seas that are perfect for families or travelers seeking a relaxed day away from the bustle of the city walls.

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.