21 Things to Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik for the First Time

There are some things to know about Dubrovnik before you visit for the first time. Read on for our tips!

Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With its medieval walls and stunning Adriatic views it’s easy to see why so many travelers add it to their bucket list.

However, there are a few things that might surprise first-time visitors. From local customs to transportation tips, knowing what to expect can make your trip much smoother.

Here’s our list of top things to know about Dubrovnik to help you plan your trip and avoid common mistakes.

Great Hotels in Dubrovnik for First-Time Visitors:

Villa Orabelle – beachfront hotel only a mile from Old Town
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad – located within the city walls and only steps from major landmarks.
Villa Dubrovnik – beautiful luxury hotel only a 15 minute walk from Old Town

Practical Tips For Planning Your Visit

Visiting Dubrovnik takes a bit of planning, especially during the busy summer months. With cruise ships and crowds of tourists arriving daily, it helps to have a clear plan before you get there.

To make the most of your trip and avoid last-minute stress, here are some of our top tips for planning your visit.

1. Make Reservations in Advance

Many boutique hotels in and around Dubrovnik’s Old Town have just a handful of rooms, so availability can be limited.

If you have your heart set on a specific hotel, we recommend booking it as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. They tend to book up months in advance, especially for the peak summer months.

Restaurants, especially those with the best views, fill up quickly, so it’s smart to make reservations early.

Tours are also popular, and booking ahead ensures you get the day and time that works best for your schedule.

2. Some Hotels May Not Be Accessible

Many of the buildings in Old Town Dubrovnik are quite old, and as a result, many hotels don’t have elevators. It’s not uncommon to climb several flights of stairs to reach your room.

This can also apply to restaurants located inside these historic buildings. When we dined at Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant which is located atop the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, we had to walk up several flights of steep, narrow stairs to reach the rooftop.

It wasn’t an issue for us, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with anyone who has mobility concerns.

3. Parking Can Be Tricky If You Stay in Old Town

The Old Town is entirely pedestrian-only, which makes parking a bit of a challenge.

If your hotel is inside the city walls, you’ll likely need to leave your car at a lot outside and carry your luggage through the streets.

Some hotels can help with parking arrangements, but whether you arrange for parking yourself or through the hotel, you’ll need to pay and it can be expensive.

4. Consider Timing Around Cruise Ship Arrivals

Crowds can easily overwhelm Old Town midday. If you’re able to plan your visit to avoid this, we highly recommend you do.

Even if you aren’t normally bothered by crowds, if you throw the intense heat and narrow streets into the mix, it can make for an unpleasant visit.

We recommend checking the cruise schedules when planning your trip and try to avoid the days when ships will be in port. You can check schedules here.

If you can’t do that, try to plan a day trip for midday and then you can enjoy the city in the early morning and evening when the crowds have subsided a bit.

Navigating Dubrovnik: What You Need to Know

Getting around Dubrovnik is surprisingly easy, whether you’re walking through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town or hopping on a bus to explore nearby neighborhoods.

That said, there are a few practical tips and insights that can help your first visit go smoothly and make the most of your time in the city.

5. Cars Aren’t Necessary

If you’re planning to rent a car in Croatia, it’s usually easiest to return it before you reach Dubrovnik or pick one up when you leave the city.

Unless you’re planning to explore areas outside Dubrovnik on your own, a car isn’t really necessary. Most of the city is easy to navigate on foot, and public transportation can get you where you need to go.

6. Dubrovnik Isn’t Very Accessible

Walking through Dubrovnik’s Old Town isn’t always easy, even for those without mobility concerns. The streets are paved with limestone, which can be uneven in spots.

Then there are the stairs, and there are a lot of them. You’ll find them climbing up to the city walls, along the wall pathway itself, and scattered throughout the side streets of Old Town.

In addition to the sheer number of them, they can be steep and narrow in spots so navigating them can be a little tricky.

If you’re visiting with children, older travelers, or anyone with mobility concerns, it’s something to keep in mind when planning your day.

7. Streets Can Be Slippery

While we’re talking about the streets and stairs, it’s worth mentioning that the limestone paving can get a little slippery, especially when wet.

Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s best to skip heels or flip-flops if you want to explore safely and comfortably.

8. There are Two Ports in Dubrovnik

Day trips from Dubrovnik to nearby islands or towns are a favorite activity for many visitors.

If you’re planning to include any excursions, it’s helpful to know that Dubrovnik has two ports: the Old Town port and Gruž Port. Gruž Port is about a 15-minute drive from Old Town.

Ferries to Lokrum and Cavtat depart from the Old Town port, while trips to the Elaphiti Islands, Korčula, and other destinations leave from Gruž Port.

9. Be Prepared for Hills

Dubrovnik is a hilly city, so no matter where you go, you’ll likely encounter some steep streets and inclines.

Walking in some of the residential neighborhoods outside Old Town can feel like a mini workout, especially if you’re carrying a backpack.

Comfortable shoes are essential, and it helps to pace yourself and take breaks when needed.

What to Know Before Exploring the City

Exploring Dubrovnik is a so fun even when you’re getting a little lost. Every corner has something new to discover.

That said, there are a few tips worth keeping in mind to make the most of your day and to help you avoid common surprises along the way.

10. The Old Town Is Smaller Than You Think

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is actually pretty small, approximately .095 square miles.

If you’re planning to visit and you’re wondering how much time to spend in Dubrovnik, we recommend 2 days to fully enjoy the Old Town and surrounding area.

If you plan to include some day trips in your itinerary or you want to explore other neighborhoods, you’ll want to add additional days.

We have additional guides about day trips from Dubrovnik you might find helpful:
11 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik Without a Car
17 Free Things to Do in Dubrovnik (That Still Feel Luxurious)
6 Best Islands Near Dubrovnik (Plus Stunning Coastal Spots)
Island Day Trips From Dubrovnik Itinerary: Your 5-Day Guide

11. The City Walls Are Stunning, but Hot

We highly recommend walking the city walls if you’re visiting Dubrovnik. It offers spectacular views that stretch from the city to the Elafiti Islands on a clear day.

One thing to keep in mind when walking the walls is that there’s very little shade. There are a couple of small cafes with high top tables that offer some relief from the unrelenting sun but, beyond that, you’re on your own.

We recommend arming yourself with some items before heading out on your wall walk. Here are some of our suggestions:

Water – There are a couple of small cafes where you can grab something to drink, but they can get crowded so we suggest bringing your own anyway.
Comfortable walking shoes – The stone walkway and stairs can be uneven and slippery in spots.
Sunscreen – The walk is fully exposed to the sun for most of the route so sunscreen is a must.
Hat and/or sunglasses – Helpful for protecting yourself from the intense midday sun.
Cash or card for drinks – There are a few small cafés and drink stands along the route if you want a quick break.
Lightweight clothing – Breathable fabrics will make the walk much more comfortable, especially in summer.
Plan your visit strategically – We recommend visiting earlier or later in the day when the sun isn’t as strong.

Want the full city walls guide?
👉 Walking The Dubrovnik City Walls – A Traveler’s Guide 2026

12. Have a Contingency Plan For the Cable Car

If you have time to include a ride on the cable car to catch the stunning views from the top of Mount Srđ, we highly recommend you do. However, you should have a backup plan.

The cable car only operates when the conditions are optimal so there’s always a chance it may not be operating when you visit.

Here’s a list of alternatives so you won’t miss that amazing view!

Take an Uber or taxi – This is the easiest alternative. Drivers can take you up the winding road to the top in about 15-20 minutes from Old Town.
Drive yourself – If you have a rental car, you can follow the scenic road up the mountain. There’s parking available near the viewpoint and restaurant at the summit.
Hike the Mount Srđ trail – This is a popular option for active travelers. The trail begins just outside Old Town and takes about 45-60 minutes to reach the top. Expect a steep climb but incredible views along the way. Check out the trail info here.
Book a guided tour – Some buggy tours, jeep tours, or small-group excursions include transportation to the summit along with stops at viewpoints and the war museum. You can check out some of the available tours by clicking here.

13. Early Morning and Late Evening Are the Best Times to Be in the City

One of our favorite times to explore Dubrovnik Old Town is early in the morning or later in the evening.

In the early morning, the streets are really quiet and it almost feels like you have the city to yourself.

Later in the evening is just as nice. As the tour groups leave, Old Town starts to feel calmer again and the city looks beautiful when it’s lit up.

People also tend to linger in the squares longer since it’s not as crowded or hot. It’s a great time to stroll through the streets.

We saw a lot of street performers at night as well. Not so much during the day.

Money Tips for Dubrovnik

Some of the most common questions people have about Dubrovnik have to do with money.

Handling money in Dubrovnik is pretty straightforward, but a few things can make your trip smoother and help you avoid surprises.

Outdoor restaurant terrace in Dubrovnik Old Town with diners enjoying meals beneath limestone buildings, terracotta roofs, and hillside backdrop

14. Bring Cash for Small Purchases and Tips

While most stores and restaurants accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you since some smaller stores and restaurants only accept cash.

Also, many restaurants don’t have a spot on the bill to include a tip so you’ll want to leave a cash tip instead.

Don’t have enough cash on you? Not a problem! Check out number 12 on our list!

Want to read our full guide about tipping in Croatia?
👉 A Traveler’s Guide To Tipping In Croatia In 2026

15. There are ATMs in Old Town

Don’t worry if you run low on cash, there are ATMs in Old Town. It’s kind of funny to spot one tucked into a medieval street.

There’s a popular ATM on Stradun that usually has a line, so plan a few extra minutes if you need to withdraw money. Just remember that your bank may charge fees for each transaction.

16. Expect Higher Prices Than Other Croatian Cities

Dubrovnik is definitely one of Croatia’s most popular cities.

Its popularity means prices can be higher than in other parts of the country, but honestly, it’s not outrageous, especially when compared to major cities around the world.

People sometimes call it “really expensive,” but we didn’t find that to be the case.

For perspective, we just paid $100 for chicken wings, grilled cheese, and two beers at a Hampton Inn in New York City. Now that’s expensive! Compared to that, Dubrovnik feels like a bargain.

17. Get the Dubrovnik Pass to Save Money

We highly suggest purchasing a Dubrovnik Pass.

For the same price as a single entrance ticket to the city walls, a Dubrovnik Pass allows you entry to not only the city walls but several other attractions throughout the city including museums and art galleries.

The pass also entitles you to free use of public transportation for the length of the ticket as well as discounts for various activities, tours, and restaurants.

You can purchase either a 1-day, 3-day or 7-day pass here.

Etiquette Tips

Since we’re doing a list of practical tips, we’re going to include a few etiquette tips so you don’t find yourself in an uncomfortable situation.

Banje Beach in Dubrovnik with turquoise Adriatic waters, sandy shoreline, beachgoers, and medieval walled Old Town with stone fortifications rising from the sea under blue sky

18. Dress Appropriately Around Town

In many beach towns around the world, it’s totally normal to stroll around town in a swimsuit.

Croatia isn’t one of those places. In fact, some towns, Hvar included, even post signs reminding visitors to cover up.

Keep in mind that you can be fined upwards of 150 euro for ignoring this.

19. No Littering or Leaving Trash Behind

Littering is one of my biggest pet peeves, and something that’s very noticeable about Dubrovnik is that it’s so clean.

Please do your part to keep it that way. Anything you bring to a beach or public area should leave with you. Even small actions make a big difference.

Safety Tips to Consider

Dubrovnik is a very safe city. We never felt uncomfortable when walking around, even at night.

As with any major city around the world, you definitely want to be aware of your surroundings exercise normal precautions at all times.

20. Rock Jumping Isn’t Without Risk

You’ll most likely see locals jumping off the rocks near Old Town and it can look like a lot of fun.

But it can also be very dangerous if you’re not familiar with the area. Every year, visitors get injured from jumping off high spots or landing in shallow, rocky water.

Unless you’re certain about what’s below the surface, it’s safest to skip the jump and enjoy the view from the shore.

21. Think Carefully Before Renting a Kayak

Kayaking near Dubrovnik’s city walls and out toward Lokrum is one of the city’s most popular activities, and it’s easy to see why. It looks like a fun way to spend a few hours on the water.

That said, it can be more physically demanding than you might realize. You’ll be paddling in the open sea which can be more strenuous compared to a lake. Make sure to consider your own fitness level before heading out for a paddle.

Additionally, the waters around Dubrovnik are busy with boats, so staying aware of your surroundings is essential.

FAQs

Hopefully, we’ve answered most of your questions about things to know about Dubrovnik before visiting. Just in case, check out our answers to more common questions about visiting Dubrovnik.

Is Dubrovnik Safe to Visit?

Yes, Dubrovnik is very safe to visit however, you should always be aware of your surroundings and exercise normal precautions as with anywhere you travel.

What are some things to do in Dubrovnik’s Old Town for free?

There are many things to do in Dubrovnik’s Old Town for free including roaming the cobblestone streets, ascending the Jesuit Stairs and seeing Onofrio’s Fountain to name a few.

What can I see in Dubrovnik in One Day?

You can see everything in Old Town Dubrovnik in one day including the city walls. If you plan to visit other areas of Dubrovnik, you will probably need additional days.

Our Final Take: Things To Know About Dubrovnik

So that’s our list of things to know about Dubrovnik before visiting. Hopefully we’ve touched on and answered most of your questions.

Dubrovnik is an amazing city and we have no doubt that you’ll have a great time. Just keep these tips in mind and you’ll have a great time. If you’re like us, you’ll be planning another visit before you leave.

Talk soon!

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