Dubrovnik is more than just a pretty place; it’s a city with deep stories waiting to be discovered. Each street and building tells a piece of history, offering a journey through time with every step you take.
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, it is a coastal gem in Croatia famous for its beauty and history. With its stunning location by the Adriatic Sea and well-preserved medieval buildings, it attracts travelers from all over the world. Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and beautiful palaces.
Here’s a guide on how to explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town and discover its most famous landmarks, hidden spots, and cultural highlights.
The City Walls: A Walk Through History
Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls are one of its most famous features. These walls stretch almost 2 kilometers around the Old Town and were built between the 12th and 17th centuries to protect the city. Today, walking along them gives you amazing views of the Adriatic Sea, the orange rooftops of the city, and nearby islands.
Key stops on the walls:
Minceta Tower: the highest point on the walls, offering a 360-degree view
Bokar Fortress: overlooks the west side and helped defend the city in the past
St. John Fortress: guards the city harbor and now has maritime and aquarium exhibits
The full walk takes about two hours. It’s best to do it early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Stradun: The Main Street
Stradun, also called Placa, is the main street of Dubrovnik. This wide, limestone-paved street runs through the center of the Old Town and is lined with beautiful buildings, shops, and cafés.
Key spots on Stradun:
Onofrio’s Fountain: a 15th-century fountain near the entrance to the Old Town
The Franciscan Monastery: home to one of the oldest still-operating pharmacies in Europe
The Bell Tower: built in the 15th century, it’s one of the most important landmarks in Dubrovnik
Stradun is the perfect place to take a walk, sit at a café, and watch the city come to life.
The Rector’s Palace: A Glimpse of the Past
The Rector’s Palace is one of the most important buildings in Dubrovnik. It was once the home of the Rector, the leader of the Dubrovnik Republic. Today, it’s a museum where you can learn about the city’s history, culture, and art.
Highlights include:
The Rector’s chambers: see how the ruling class lived
The courtyard: used for concerts, especially during the summer
Exhibits: various artifacts and portraits from Dubrovnik’s golden age
The palace is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, making it a must-see for history lovers.
Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury
In the heart of the Old Town, Dubrovnik Cathedral stands as a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. Inside, you’ll find a treasury filled with gold and silver relics, some dating back to the 11th century.
Must-see features:
Altarpiece by Titian: a painting of the Assumption of the Virgin from the 16th century
Treasury: holds relics like a gold-plated skull of St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint
The cathedral is a fascinating place to explore Dubrovnik’s religious history.
Hidden Gems: Gundulic Square and Lokrum Island
While many people visit the main attractions, there are hidden gems in and around the Old Town.
Gundulic Square: this charming square hosts a morning market where you can buy local products, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great way to experience the local culture
Lokrum Island: just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik, this island is perfect for escaping the crowds. It has botanical gardens, peacocks, a monastery, and even a small saltwater lake where you can swim
Sponza Palace: A Center of Culture and History
Sponza Palace is one of the few buildings that survived the 1667 earthquake. This Gothic-Renaissance building was once a customs house and is now home to the State Archives.
Key features:
Memorial Room of the Defenders of Dubrovnik: dedicated to those who defended the city during the Croatian War of Independence
The courtyard: used for concerts and events during the summer festival
Local Cuisine: Tastes of Dubrovnik
No trip to Dubrovnik is complete without trying the local food. The Old Town has many restaurants offering fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Croatian dishes.
Must-try dishes:
Black risotto: a seafood dish made with cuttlefish ink
Pasticada: slow-cooked beef in red wine, served with gnocchi
Rozata: a creamy dessert similar to crème brûlée
Evening Strolls and Sunset Views
After a day of exploring, an evening walk through the Old Town is a magical experience. As the sun sets, the ancient buildings glow in golden light, and the streets become quieter.
Best sunset spots:
Lovrijenac Fortress: just outside the city walls, offering beautiful views of the Old Town and the sea
Mount Srđ: take the cable car up to the top for a panoramic view, especially stunning at sunset
A journey through Dubrovnik’s Old Town feels like stepping into the past. From walking the ancient city walls to enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, Dubrovnik offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
