If you’re looking for a short getaway in Croatia, look no further than the stunning city of Dubrovnik, which offers dreamlike scenery, soothing activities, plenty of sightseeing opportunities, beach time, and a stunning historical centre where you can learn all about the stories and legends of this spectacular European city. How about we have a look at the top three day itineraries for Dubrovnik…
I need directions to Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, in the southern part of Croatia on the Adriatic Sea, is a stunning tourist destination. Ragusa was once a major port and is now a popular tourist resort in Sicily.
The island is connected to the mainland via a bridge, and the town’s stunning walled old town and other mediaeval architecture have earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Planning Your Trip to Dubrovnik
Flying into Dubrovnik international airport is the quickest and most convenient method to reach Dubrovnik from anywhere in the world, since it offers connections to several European countries as well as the capital city of Zagreb and other major locations in Croatia, such as Split and Rijeka. Getting to Dubrovnik by vehicle or bus is an option for those coming from other cities in Croatia.
Relevant Distances
Driving time from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is 6 hours and 32 minutes (608 km).
Travel time by automobile from Split to Dubrovnik is 237 kilometres (3 hours and 25 minutes)
Planning Your Trip
A trip to a major tourist spot like this one requires careful advance preparation. Keep in mind that several scenes from the iconic series Games of Thrones were shot in the ancient town of Dubrovnik, making it a must-see destination for fans of the show.
Since many of the town’s monuments have become pilgrimage sites for die-hard fans of the fantasy series, visiting them in peak season (July/August) may have you fighting crowds and waiting in line.
You may save time and money by planning ahead of time where to stay and what excursions or guided tours to schedule, since doing so will ensure you get the best rates and availability.
Getting Around Dubrovnik
Walking about Dubrovnik, particularly in the historic core, is a breeze. Instead of the stress of driving in the city’s more contemporary areas, consider taking the bus or a cab. Another option is to rent a bicycle.
If your three days in Dubrovnik are part of a longer road trip in Croatia, or if you need to go from Zagreb or Split to Dubrovnik, renting a vehicle is a great way to save costs on transportation, particularly if you’re travelling with a group of friends who also want to split the cost of transportation.
Day excursions from Dubrovnik may be taken on organised tours or on public long-distance buses to places like Herceg Novi, Kotor (in Montenegro), and the beautiful Mostar in neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina. The use of a rented automobile is a viable option here as well.
In what season would you recommend going to Dubrovnik?
The city has become a popular European tourist destination, thus it is expected to remain busy during most of the year. As a terrific place to visit for a weekend, it’s a favourite destination for Europeans year-round.
Dubrovnik is best experienced in the late fall or early spring when temperatures are gentler, accommodations are cheaper, and there are less tourists.
Where to go and what to do in Dubrovnik in only three days
First Full Day in Dubrovnik
Get up early and make your way to the historic area and old town to take in some of the iconic monuments you’ve seen in many photographs before anything else on your itinerary.
Stop by for a midday coffee, a quick bite to eat, or an afternoon cocktail to reward yourself for all the miles you’ve walked today. The best way to explore everything in the historic district is on foot, so make sure to have a sturdy pair of shoes.
As a first impression, you may observe that the Old Town of Dubrovnik is fortified with massive stone walls and towers, replicating one of the most reliable defensive structures in all of Europe at the time.
The Old Port of Dubrovnik is particularly stunning from the walls, as is the city itself with its many limestone buildings and crimson roofs. The historic Pile Gate, constructed in 1537, serves as the main entrance to the city’s old town.
The wooden drawbridge connected by these two massive Gothic stone arches was a crucial part of the city’s formidable defence system in ancient times. The Onofrio Fountain, one of Dubrovnik’s most recognisable features, is located nearby and dates back to the mid-1400s.
The Church of Holy Salvation, another area to stop to enjoy the local architecture and learn about the country’s history, is located just across from the fountain, which conducts water from a nearby aqueduct.
The next stop on your day’s stroll should be Luza Square, where the impressive Dubrovnik Clock Tower can be seen. The tower was built in 1444 and is a popular gathering place for people, particularly at midday when the bell tolls to indicate the time of day.
The Stradum is a pedestrian mall dotted with chic boutiques, cafes, and a few eateries.
In order to get a decent view of the Stradum and the rest of the city, you may climb to the top of the city walls. The old town’s northern side is home to numerous gorgeous stairs that lead up to the city’s outskirts, where you can take in even more breathtaking vistas.
The stone-made baroque cathedral, which houses incredible works of art by several Croatian and Italian artists, including a magnificent painting on the altar by Titian, and the Rector’s Palace are two more interesting places to discover on your first morning of sightseeing in the old town of Dubrovnik.
The gothic Rector’s Palace may be seen just outside the main entrance to the campus, next to the church. Formerly the seat of government, the building currently houses the Cultural History Museum, the best site to begin exploring Dubrovnik’s rich history.
Restaurants and bars in Dubrovnik’s historic district that come highly recommended
If you’re looking to take a break from your sightseeing in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, here are a few suggestions, whether you’re in the mood for a cup of coffee or just need a few minutes to catch your breath.
Cafe Festival, located in a typically stone structure on the Stradum, is widely regarded as the most traditional spot for a cup of coffee and some atmosphere (address: Stradun 28).
Soul Caffe (Uska ul. 5) is a great alternative for an afternoon drink or coffee, since it often has live music and a more celebratory environment.
The old town and the city limits both include locations of the popular coffee shop Cogito (Ul. od Pustijerne 1). The historic setting is cosy, making it ideal for a short refreshment break. However, word on the street has it that their coffee is among the finest in town.
Finally, Dubravka 1836 is where you should go for the greatest views of the shore, a relaxing rest, and to people-watch. Sit at a seat on their patio and take in the stunning sunset views, only a short walk from the Pilar Gate.
This is our second day in Dubrovnik..
If you’re feeling worn out after a day of seeing the old town, taking a break to relax on the beach for a few hours before returning to Dubrovnik’s many historic attractions is a great idea.
If you need to unwind for a while, you may do it at any of the beaches in close proximity to the city. Banje Beach, on the other hand, is a great place to go if you’re seeking for peace and quiet, smooth sand, and a pleasant swimming area, all while still being relatively close to the Old Town. Spend a few hours here unwinding, snacking, or lunching by the water, and then make your way back into town for additional sightseeing.
There are still impressive structures from Dubrovnik’s past to be discovered in the city’s old centre, so it’s worth while to return.
The Franciscan Monastery Complex is the first stop. Its completion took centuries, and the many diverse forms of architecture that went into it are plain to see. This provides an eclectic aesthetic and offers the structures some dramatic flair.
Gorgeous cloisters, a church, an apothecary (widely regarded as the oldest pharmacy in the world, dating back to 1317), and a library can all be found in this structure, which combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Romanesque design elements. More than 20,000 volumes and several exceptional original manuscripts that have moulded Dubrovnik’s history are housed in this last structure.
From the city walls, you may go down to the West Port and check out Fort Lovrijenac, another lookout point with breathtaking panoramas of the historic quarter and an architectural gem in its own right. The stronghold is perched on top of breathtaking cliffs, making it one of Dubrovnik’s top tourist attractions.
It may be the perfect time for a stroll across the city after a brief lunch break. I find that walking tours, particularly those led by locals, are the best way to learn about the history, mysteries, and mythology of a place like Dubrovnik.
Nonetheless, you needn’t fear; a stroll around the Old Town like this is anything from boring. This walking tour will take you to all the places you may have missed on your first day in Dubrovnik, and it will also introduce you to fascinating details about the city’s dramatic past that you have probably never heard before.
Last but not least, a walking tour based on the hit HBO drama Game of Thrones would be a better choice like this, particularly for die-hard fans of the show.
Dubrovnik, Third Day
Spend the third day getting out in beautiful environment and reconnecting with Mother Earth. The countryside outside the city provides several options for getting away from it all and taking in sweeping views of the coast while relaxing.
As a matter of fact, sea kayaking in Dubrovnik is one of the city’s most well-liked activities. If you want to rent a kayak and explore the city from the water, the best spot to do it is the West Harbor area, since this is where most trips depart from.
You may either stay within sight of the city walls and have a more relaxed kayaking experience, or you can challenge yourself by paddling to Lokrum Island and exploring the stunning sea caves that are located just a few minutes from Dubrovnik’s shores.
Visiting Lokrum Island is a relaxing and inexpensive way to spend a half or full day away from the bustle of the city, whether you want to travel there by kayak or on an organised boat trip.
You may go hiking through the thick woods, swimming at one of the island’s beautiful beaches, or admiring the island’s many stunning waterfalls on Lokrum. The Benedictine Monastery of Saint Mary and the historic Fort Royal are two must-see attractions. The island also has a botanical garden where you can get up up and personal with the native vegetation.
Mount Srd is another great outdoor destination; at little over 400 metres above sea level, it is readily accessible by cable car or bus, but it can also be climbed on foot for a really remarkable trekking experience with stunning views of the Croatian coast and the Adriatic. Some of the best bird’s-eye views of the historic district will also be available throughout the trip.
Three days in Dubrovnik: a summary
It is clear that this plan includes visits to both cultural and natural sites as well as short day excursions within the region. There should be plenty of time spent strolling about the city to really appreciate its mediaeval architecture. The greatest piece of advice I can offer you for making the most of your three days in Dubrovnik is to take it easy and explore at your own speed.
How many days do you need in Dubrovnik Croatia?
SHORT AND SWEET – TWO DAYS IN DUBROVNIK IS ENOUGH TIME TO EXPLORE OLD TOWN AND SEE THE TOP SIGHTS. FOUR DAYS IS IDEAL IF YOU WANT TIME TO RELAX BY THE BEACH/POOL AND ADD ONE OR TWO DAY TRIPS. Two days in Dubrovnik is just enough time to explore Old Town and the surrounding areas.