The walled city and UNESCO World Heritage site of Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most impressive destinations. The medieval town is encapsulated by ancient walls and home to towering fortresses, rocky cove beaches and unique wines. It’s no wonder the destination — dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ — sees over a million visitors each year. Avoid the crowds by visiting during the shoulder seasons, like April and October. These months see pleasant weather, but less congestion.
Winetraveler Tip: Get updates on the best flight deals into Dubrovnik here, plus take a look at some of the best hotels to stay at in Dubrovnik here. You can also bundle access to walking the Dubrovnik walls and taking the cable car up Srd Hill with this super saver pass.
Croatian wines, especially those cultivated in the Peljesac Peninsula, are rarely exported, so the best way to sample them is within the country. Inside the city’s ancient walls, weave through the cobbled streets up to Malvasija Wine Bar, where you can taste varieties along to jazz music while nibbling on Croatian cheese. Some of the wines offered come from spots that only 300 bottles per year, so make sure to sample some of these special and rare wines.
Another charming wine bar you shouldn’t miss is Razonoda. The staff will explain all about the country’s wine regions on the bar’s wine map if you ask. Various tasting menu options range from budget to splurge.
The vineyards of the Peljesac Peninsula are just a short drive away from the walled city. Plan to explore and taste the nearby seaside region town of Ston. Here, you can admire the steep vineyards built on a 45-degree incline overlooking the sea, stopping to taste at wineries such as Grgic, Milos, and Marlais.
Back in the city, Buza Bar sits on edge of a cliff overlooking the sea, the perfect place to wine taste at sunset.
Also, don’t miss out on Croatia’s Edivo Underwater Winery, where you can combine diving and wine tasting (a one-hour drive from Dubrovnik).
Meandering along Dubrovnik’s walls is probably best done before wine tasting, as some areas are steep, narrow and rise up high above sea level. But that’s what makes the adventure so incredibly enticing, as the views of the sparkling Adriatic and the red rooftops of the historic center don’t get much better. The walk (which you can reserve here), which takes at least an hour or two costs 200 Kuna (about $30). Make sure to bring sunblock, water and arrive early — especially during the high season.
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Your Walls Ticket also includes entrance to the Lovrijenac Fortress, which sits just outside of the historic city walls. Perched high above the sea, be ready to climb more stairs to get there. Exploring the ancient structure that was once defended by its ten cannons may seem familiar — you’ve probably seen it on Game of Thrones. If Game of Thrones is/was your thing, you can also book a tour that takes you through the locations where many scenes were shot.
While many of Dubrovnik’s beaches are rocky, the Adriatic waters seem to sparkle, making the pebbled beaches just as gorgeous as the sandy ones. The nearest beach to the historic city center is Banje Beach, just a short walk. You’ll find both rocks and sand along this beach. A short drive away is Sveti Jakov Beach, a quieter cove with gorgeous views of Dubrovnik in the distance.
An island just a 20-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik is Lokrum. A beautiful hilly island complete with a wooded interior, a salty lake known as the Croatian ‘Dead Sea,’ and hidden, rocky beaches scattered throughout the island. It’s known for its large population of rabbits and peacocks, both of which seem to be unperturbed by the presence of humans. Note that ferry tickets to Lokrum can only be purchased in-person in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and they run about every 30 minutes. Plan to pack a picnic lunch and spend the day there, and consider scheduling a guided walking tour once on the island.
Walking through the tiny medieval alleyways takes you back in time. Don’t worry about losing your way — remember, the city has walls on all four sides. Plan to wander and admire the old buildings, small shops and crumbling churches. Game of Thrones fans should plan to see some of the filming locations like the Spanish Steps.
If you’re into aquatic adventures, make sure to do a kayak trip along the bay. Seeing Dubrovnik from the lapping waves of the Adriatic makes for truly stunning views. Tours often go out around sunset, and the quiet waters are easy to navigate as you follow the group.
Riding Dubrovnik’s cable car up to Srd Hill is best at sunset. Views overlook the historic city walled city center, the expansive Adriatic and many Croatian islands, including Lokrum. You can get roundtrip tickets and more for the experience right here.
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