Why Go to Dubrovnik
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Dubrovnik feels like stepping into a storybook, or into Game of Thrones, which filmed many of its most famous scenes here. Massive medieval stone walls wrap around the old town and plunge straight into the sea, protecting Baroque churches, palaces and marble-paved streets. The city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, and walking the complete circuit of the walls is one of the great experiences in Europe.
Often called the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik has it all: rich history in every monument, fantastic seafood and local wine, and warm, clear water lapping at pebble beaches. Ride the cable car up Mount Srd for sweeping views at sunset, kayak around the walls, and take day trips to the nearby Elafiti Islands, the town of Ston with its own long walls and oysters, or even Montenegro's beautiful Bay of Kotor.
Dubrovnik gets very crowded when cruise ships are in port, so timing matters. I'll plan your visit around the quieter hours, book a hotel with a view and connect Dubrovnik with Split and the islands.
BEST FOR
History lovers, couples, photographers and coastal travelers
BEST MONTHS
May–June and September–October
EXPLORE
Old Town lies within the medieval walls; Ploče overlooks the historic center; Lapad offers beaches and hotels; Gruž is the main port area.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Dubrovnik
Europe › Southern Europe › Croatia › Dubrovnik-Neretva
Stone-walled heritage on the Adriatic coast
Historical & Heritage
Ancient
Architecture
Mediterranean
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Medieval walls and Adriatic views are exceptional, but the old town can be crowded on cruise-call days.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
The circuit has steep stairs and limited shade; check ticket terms and go early during hot weather.
Dubrovnik City Walls
Walk the impressive medieval defensive walls encircling Dubrovnik’s Old Town for views over terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea.
Visit early for quieter photographs, and explore the narrow side streets away from the busiest route.
Stradun
Stroll Stradun, the limestone-paved main street running through Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town.
Expect steps and exposed viewpoints; verify admission and any temporary event closures.
Fort Lovrijenac
Explore the commanding fortress perched on cliffs just outside Dubrovnik’s western city walls.
Service may pause during high winds; check operating status and visibility before purchasing tickets.
Mount Srđ Cable Car
Ride the cable car toward Mount Srđ for elevated views of Dubrovnik, the surrounding islands and the coastline.
Boat access and swimming conditions are seasonal; stay on marked paths and observe island rules.
Lokrum Island
Take a short boat journey to Lokrum, a wooded island with historic ruins, gardens and coastal paths near Dubrovnik.
A luxury coastal hotel east of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, useful for travelers seeking sea views and walking access to historic sights. Confirm room view and access to the old city before booking.
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
Ploče / Near Old Town
Hotel Tags
A historic-style upscale hotel outside Pile Gate, particularly convenient for exploring Dubrovnik’s walled center without long transfers. Check room configuration and parking separately.
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
Pile Gate / Old Town
Hotel Tags
A coastal resort hotel on the Lapad Peninsula offering a quieter alternative to the busy Old Town. Plan local bus or taxi transfers for historic sightseeing.
Dubrovnik Palace
Lapad Peninsula
Hotel Tags
A seafront resort hotel west of the old city, suited to guests who prioritize coastal amenities with access to Dubrovnik attractions. Confirm sea-access arrangements and room type.
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
Gorica / Coastal Dubrovnik
Hotel Tags
A luxury resort outside central Dubrovnik, well suited to a resort-first vacation with day trips into the Old Town. Verify transfer times, parking and seasonal services.
Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
Orašac / North of Dubrovnik
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Dubrovnik
High 62°F · Low 53°F · Rain 7.4 in
Quiet days and cozy konobas as the season winds down.
May–June and September–October. Check the forecast and local opening schedules before committing to outdoor excursions.
Best Times to Visit Dubrovnik
WHEN TO GO
06
Ferries and Coastal Excursions
Boats to nearby islands depart from different harbor points. Verify weather, terminal and return schedules.
05
Old Town Walking
The historic center is pedestrianized and includes many stone steps. Comfortable shoes are essential and accessibility varies.
04
Airport and Cruise Port Transfers
Dubrovnik Airport and Gruž Port are separate from the walled Old Town. Plan the correct transfer and luggage drop.
03
City Buses
Local buses link the Old Town gates with neighborhoods and ports. Check boarding stops and ticketing before traveling.
02
Getting Around Locally
The Old Town is pedestrian-only; buses and taxis reach Lapad and outlying neighborhoods.
01
Arriving by Air
Dubrovnik Airport is southeast of the city, with shuttle and taxi transfers.
Dubrovnik Airport is southeast of the city, with shuttle and taxi transfers. The Old Town is pedestrian-only; buses and taxis reach Lapad and outlying neighborhoods.
Getting Around Dubrovnik