Best 20 things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Ah, Dubrovnik, the jewel of Croatia's Dalmatian coast! Brace yourself for an unforgettable adventure in this enchanting city. Whether you fancy strolling along the ancient city walls, where you'll inevitably encounter more selfies sticks than an A-list Hollywood event, or slurping up oysters the size of your face at one of the trendy seafood joints in old town, this article has got you covered with the ultimate guide to the 20 best things to do in Dubrovnik. Just remember, when visiting the iconic Dubrovnik Cathedral, kindly refrain from attempting any divine interventions - we're told the priests don't appreciate the competition.

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1. Go kayaking around the city walls

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Ul. od Tabakarije 1, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Embark on a watery adventure of epic proportions, my dear traveler, as you take to the rivers of Dubrovnik to conquer the city walls by kayak! As you paddle with the grace of a synchronized swimmer on steroids, prepare to be dazzled by the splendid sights that greet you on all sides - from the medieval marvels of the city walls to the majestic mountains that stand tall like a bodybuilder flexing his biceps. But beware, as navigating the currents may require you to summon the skills of a ninja warrior, swerving with dexterity to avoid rogue tourists attempting a brisk breaststroke across your path. So hop in your kayak, don your waterproof armor, and let the waters of Dubrovnik transport you to a world where laughter flows as freely as the waves beneath your paddle!

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2. Visit Lokrum Island

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Ribarnica ul., 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to Lokrum Island, the ultimate getaway in Dubrovnik! Known as the land of peacocks, this place is like a vacation for your eyes and a test for your camera's zoom function. Soak up the stunning views from the Napoleonic Fortress and pretend you're guarding your own kingdom - or at least a brilliantly Instagrammable fortress. If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the Dead Sea... wait, scratch that - I mean the Dead Sea Lake, which is just as refreshing but without all the biblical mystique.

www.lokrumtour.com

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3. Visit the Dominican Monastery

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Ul. Svetog Dominika 4, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Nestled in the heart of Dubrovnik, the Dominican Monastery stands as a haven for those seeking tranquility and a much-needed break from dodging tourist selfies. With its modest entrance and unassuming exterior, it offers a delightful surprise for visitors—no, it’s not a secret passage to a hidden beach bar, but an enchanting complex of Gothic architecture and sacred art. Take a moment to marvel at the serene courtyard, where birds conspire in hushed whispers about who's sitting on top of the bell tower.

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4. Take a boat tour around Dubrovnik

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Dropčeva ul. 10, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Ahoy there, landlubbers! If you're tired of sardine-packed streets and elbowing your way through selfie sticks, why not take a boat tour around Dubrovnik? Hop aboard the floating paradise and let Captain Calamari whisk you away on a swashbuckling adventure! Prepare for breathtaking views, salty tales, and the occasional seagull pirate eyeing your lunch. Don't forget to put on your sailor hat and sunscreen, unless you want a hilarious tan that screams "I'm a tourist!"

www.exploredubrovnik.com

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5. Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral

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Ul. kneza Damjana Jude 1, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to Dubrovnik Cathedral, where you'll find more history than you can shake a selfie stick at. This holy haven boasts stunning Gothic architecture, perfect for those who wish to feel closer to heaven and a little closer to that architectural award they've been dreaming of since grade school. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the resident church cat, who has achieved celebrity status for his "purr-fect" photogenic abilities.

katedraladubrovnik.hr

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6. Explore the Dubrovnik Aquarium

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Ul. kneza Damjana Jude 12, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to the Dubrovnik Aquarium, where even the fish can't resist the charms of this historic city! Dive into a world of underwater wonders as you explore this interactive museum. Marvel at the enchanting marine life, but beware, as even the most confident diver might end up feeling a little fish out of water when faced with the cunning gaze of a suspicious crab. So, whip out your snorkel and prepare for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.

www.imp-du.com

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7. Visit Stradun

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Stradun 24, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Embark on a delightful journey down Stradun, the magnificently preserved limestone street in Dubrovnik that has seen more strolling feet than the Kardashians have selfies! As you wander this pedestrian marvel, keep an eye out for a wild cast of characters - from street performers juggling oranges as if it's a fruity circus extravaganza to local boys trying to conquer the ancient art of wooing ladies with their seductive ice cream purchases. And fear not, dear travelers, toilets are scattered around, but be prepared to unlock the mysteries of a sophisticated coin-operated restroom experience that might leave you feeling like you're playing a Croatian version of Temple Run!

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8. Walk the walls of Dubrovnik

Welcome to Dubrovnik, where you can channel your inner Spider-Man and gracefully stroll along the medieval city walls like a true wall-walker! Discover the ultimate game of "I spy" as you navigate this jigsaw puzzle of stone, peeking through every nook and cranny. Think of it as a high-stakes tightrope walk, but without the acrobatics – take in the breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops, azure Adriatic Sea, and those brave souls indulging in gelato below, as you stride purposefully like a seasoned traveler.

9. Visit the Maritime Museum

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Dubrovačke Gradske Zidine, Ul. kneza Damjana Jude 12, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome, fellow wanderer, to the maritime marvel that will tickle your fancy and set your heart a-sail in the captivating city of Dubrovnik. Venture forth to the Maritime Museum, a treasure trove that will send you on a voyage through time, accompanied by a hearty crew of ship-shaped artifacts to keep you company. Discover tales of fearless seafarers and mischievous mermaids, leaving you with a tale to regale your mates back home.

www.dumus.hr

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10. Enjoy the beaches of Dubrovnik

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Plaža Banje, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the city that boasts glorious beaches that will make you want to scream "beach please!" Get ready to have sand between your toes and saltwater hair, as you embark on a beach adventure that will leave you feeling like a true mermaid or merman. With Dubrovnik's beaches, you can walk the shoreline like a beach boss, soak up the sun like a boss that actually enjoys their job, and swim in the crystal-clear waters like a fish who just won the lottery.

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11. Visit Rector's Palace

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Ul. Pred Dvorom 3, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to the Rector's Palace in Dubrovnik, a place so grand that even the pigeons prefer to visit here than any other park in town. Prepare to be amazed by its stunning Gothic architecture, which has the uncanny ability to make you question your prior life choices like never before. As you roam the majestic halls, keep an eye out for any sneaky historical ghosts - they love making hilarious cameo appearances when you least expect it!

www.dumus.hr

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12. Take a Game of Thrones tour

Welcome to Dubrovnik, where the sun-kissed shores meet dragons and the city walls echo with tales of power struggles! Take a Game of Thrones tour and experience the fantasy world intertwine with reality. As you navigate the cobblestone streets, you'll find yourself whispering, "Winter is coming," while discreetly avoiding any chance encounters with fire-breathing beasts or overzealous power-hungry rulers.

13. Visit the Franciscan Monastery

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Poljana Paska Miličevića 4, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Embark on a journey to the Franciscan Monastery in Dubrovnik, where you can find heavenly tranquility amidst the chaos of tourist selfie sticks. Marvel at the ancient architecture as you dodge enthusiastic pigeons who have clearly embraced their role as unofficial tour guides. Don't forget to savour the aromatic scents wafting from the monastery's pharmacy, where potent potions are brewed – perfect for that unexpected mishap during your adventures!

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14. Explore the Dubrovnik Synagogue

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Žudioska ul. 5, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to the Dubrovnik Synagogue, the pint-sized powerhouse of Jewish heritage in the heart of medieval Dubrovnik! Step into this historic gem, which is so cozy you might mistake it for a Jewish grandmother's cherished living room. Marvel at the Synagogue's elegant Moroccan-inspired decor and try to spot the hidden treasures that make it more than just your average place of worship.

www.godubrovnik.guide

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15. Take a cable car ride to Mount Srd

Welcome aboard the cable car ride to Mount Srd in Dubrovnik, where you'll soar higher than a seagull on a strict diet of gelato! Hop in, hold on to your sunhat, and get ready for this vertigo-inducing spectacle. As the cable car ascends, you'll be able to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik's Old Town, inspiring enough to make even the most unenthusiastic selfie-taker reconsider their career choices.

16. Explore the Old Town

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old port, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Get ready to embark on an adventure through Dubrovnik's Old Town, the kind of place where history is so ancient and confusing that even locals give up trying to understand it! Stroll along the cobbled streets that have witnessed more drama than a daytime soap opera, and make sure to keep an eye out for the Game of Thrones fans who are convinced they'll stumble upon a lost dragon. Don't forget to visit the city walls, where you can pretend to be a medieval guard and let your imagination run wild - but fair warning, chainmail and swords are not advised.

www.dubrovnikexplore.com

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17. Explore the City Walls

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Ul. Svetog Dominika, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to Dubrovnik, where you're about to embark on a journey that will bring out your inner wallflower! Prepare to channel your inner medieval knight as you explore the City Walls, the Game of Thrones dream destination without the dragons (unfortunately). Take your time strolling along these stone marvels that have seen more action than a salsa dance class, and be rewarded with breathtaking views that will make you feel like you've hit the jackpot - not the ATM, but the eye-candy jackpot!

www.dubrovniklocalguides.com

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18. Visit the Museum of Modern Art

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Ul. Frana Supila 23, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Welcome to the eccentric Museum of Modern Art in Dubrovnik! Here, contemporary art exhibits are presented with a touch of quirkiness to leave visitors scratching their heads and chuckling. Wander through the labyrinthine corridors adorned with enigmatic paintings and sculptures, guaranteed to bring out your inner philosopher or make you question your artistic inclination. Don't miss the pièce de résistance – a striking display of abstract paintings that will make even the bravest art critic utter, "I could have done that... but I didn't."

www.momad.hr

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19. Enjoy a sunset cruise

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Old Port, Mali Mul, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

As the sun dips below the horizon, hop aboard a boat and embark on a sunset cruise in Dubrovnik, where the colors of the sky will make you question whether you've stumbled into an artist's vivid dream. Feel the wind gently tousling your hair as you join fellow tourists in competing to capture the most breathtaking Instagram-worthy shot, because if a sunset happens and nobody captures it, did it even happen? Finally, toast to the day's end with a glass of local wine, or as they say in Dubrovnik, "tilting back a glass of fermented grape juice that'll make you feel like you're floating on cloud nine."

www.seaheartofdubrovnik.com

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20. Visit Fort Lovrijenac

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Ul. od Tabakarije 29, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Nestled dramatically atop a steep cliff, Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik is the Godzilla of fortress walls. With its solid stone walls that could withstand a nuclear attack (just kidding, but not entirely), this fort makes taking selfies a courageous endeavor. But fear not! Once you conquer the heart-stopping climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views that will make your jaw drop faster than a toddler eating ice cream.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Dubrovnik, Croatia by plane is to fly into Dubrovnik Airport, which is located about 20km from the city center. There are many international airlines that operate flights to Dubrovnik, including Croatia Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines.

Car

If you're driving to Dubrovnik, Croatia, the best route is to take the A1 highway from Split and then continue on the D8 coastal road towards Dubrovnik. Keep in mind that there are some border crossings with Bosnia and Herzegovina along the way, so be sure to have your passport and documents in order.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Dubrovnik, Croatia. However, you can take a train to Split or Ploče and then take a bus or ferry to Dubrovnik.

Boat

Dubrovnik is a popular port of call for many Mediterranean and Adriatic cruises. If you're traveling by boat, you can take a ferry or catamaran from nearby cities such as Split, Hvar, Korčula, and Mljet. The main ferry port in Dubrovnik is located in Gruž, about 2km from the Old Town.

Bus

The best way to get to Dubrovnik, Croatia by bus is to take a direct bus from major cities in Croatia or neighboring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Serbia. The main bus station in Dubrovnik is located in Gruž, about 2km from the Old Town.

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