Dubrovnik itinerary: How to spend 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is one of those places where a bad itinerary can ruin the experience fast. The Old Town is stunning, the sea views are ridiculous, and the history is genuinely fascinating, but between cruise ship crowds, summer heat, expensive parking, timed tickets, and day trips that need a bit of planning, you need a Dubrovnik itinerary that works in real life, not just on paper.

I’ve been coming to Croatia since childhood and have visited Dubrovnik multiple times over the years, from family trips to off-season detours while kitesurfing nearby. I love the city, especially outside peak summer, but I’ll be honest: Dubrovnik is busier, pricier, and more controlled than it used to be. That doesn’t mean you should skip it. It means you should plan it properly.

This guide is designed to help you decide how many days in Dubrovnik you actually need, then plan the right route for your trip.

Whether you have 2 days in Dubrovnik, want a classic 3 day Dubrovnik itinerary, or a slower 4 or 5 day Dubrovnik itinerary, you’ll find a realistic plan below covering the Old Town, Dubrovnik City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Lokrum, beaches, islands, wine, and the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Itinerary overview – 2 to 5 Days in Dubrovnik

This article is split into separate 2, 3, 4, and 5 day Dubrovnik itineraries because the best plan changes depending on how much time you have.

If you only have 2 days in Dubrovnik, the itinerary needs to be compact and efficient, with 3 days, the trip becomes much more balanced. If you have 4 days or 5 days, Dubrovnik works better as a base for the region. That’s when it makes sense to slow down and add a proper day trip, island day, wine experience, or slower time outside the Old Town.

The itineraries below are structured separately because the pace changes with each trip length. So don’t just follow the first two days of the five-day plan if you only have two days. Jump to the version that matches your actual trip.

I’ll include more detail the first time each activity appears in the 5-day itinerary. For the shorter Dubrovnik itineraries, I’ll keep things tighter to avoid the same City Walls paragraph four times.

Only have one day? Use my one day in Dubrovnik itinerary instead. This guide is for a longer stay where you can actually slow down, see more than the obvious sights, and use Dubrovnik as a base for nearby islands, coastal towns, and cross-border day trips.

How many days in Dubrovnik

Two or three days is the perfect amount of time for Dubrovnik. You’ll be able to explore the Old Town at a leisurely pace, and also have enough time to see it from the water and explore the immediate surroundings.

You can easily explore Dubrovnik Old Town in just one jam-packed day. However, I’d recommend spending at least one night in town in order to enjoy it at sunset and make the most of the morning, before the crowds hit the streets.

With three days or more you’ll be able to venture out on day trips and indulge in the beautiful nature and beaches around Dubrovnik.

Time	Best for	My recommendation
1 day	Cruise / day trip	Follow my separate one day in Dubrovnik itinerary
2 days	Short first visit	Old Town, City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Lokrum or kayaking
3 days	Best first visit	Add beach time or a day trip of choice
4 days	Best for day trips	Add Kotor, Mostar, Elafiti or Pelješac
5 days	Slow Travel	Add a second day trip or wine/island day

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik 5 day itinerary

With 5 days in Dubrovnik, you have enough time to see the Old Town properly, walk the City Walls, explore beyond the historic center, and add a few beaches, islands, viewpoints, or day trips without rushing.

This is the slowest version of the itinerary. You’ll still cover the main sights, but you won’t have to cram everything into one or two exhausting days. That matters in Dubrovnik, especially in summer when the heat, crowds, and stairs can humble you fast.

Day 1 – Dubrovnik Old Town

Day 1 of this Dubrovnik 5 day itinerary focuses on Dubrovnik Old Town, the historic walled center where most first-time visitors should start.

This is a full but manageable first day in Dubrovnik. If you’re visiting in summer, start early, take a proper lunch break, and save Mount Srđ for late afternoon or sunset when the views over the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic are at their best.

Start with a Dubrovnik Walking Tour

The best way to start your Dubrovnik itinerary is with a walking tour of the Old Town. Dubrovnik is beautiful on its own, but it makes a lot more sense once you understand the city’s history, the Republic of Ragusa, the defensive walls, the 1990s war damage, and why this tiny walled city became such a big deal.

I recommend doing this walking tour early in your trip, ideally on your first morning. That way, the rest of the itinerary feels less like ticking off pretty stone streets and more like exploring a place with context.

Book this walking tour

Stroll down Stradun

Stradun is the main street of Dubrovnik Old Town. This wide limestone street runs between Pile Gate and the Old Port, and it is one of the easiest places to get your bearings.

It’s also one of the busiest parts of the city, so don’t judge Dubrovnik only by your first walk down Stradun at midday in July. Come back early in the morning or later in the evening and it feels completely different.

See Onofrio’s Fountain

Just inside Pile gate, you’ll find Onofrio’s Fountain, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The large circular fountain was built in the 15th century as part of Dubrovnik’s old water supply system, and it’s still a useful meeting point today.

Find your balance on the Maskeron

Near Pile Gate, by the Franciscan Monastery, look for the small stone gargoyle head sticking out of the wall. This is the Maskeron, one of Dubrovnik’s quirky little Old Town stops.

Legend says that if you can hop onto it, keep your balance, and remove your shirt while facing the wall, you’ll be lucky in love. I’m not saying it’s reliable relationship advice, but it is a fun quick stop while exploring the Old Town.

Visit the Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery is one of the easiest worthwhile stops near Pile Gate. Inside, you’ll find a peaceful cloister and one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe.

It’s a good place to slow down for a bit, especially if Stradun is packed. The monastery also gives you a quieter look at Dubrovnik’s history beyond the big views and Game of Thrones locations.

Walk through the many gates of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is entered through several gates, with Pile Gate and Ploče Gate being the most important for most visitors.

Pile Gate is the main western entrance and the one you’ll probably use most often. Ploče Gate sits on the eastern side of the Old Town and has beautiful views toward the harbor and Revelin Fortress. Buža Gate is smaller and leads toward the upper part of town, close to the cliffside bars.

You don’t need to hunt down every gate on your first day. Just pay attention as you move through the Old Town because these entrances are part of what makes Dubrovnik feel like a real fortified city.

Lunch at Barba

For a casual lunch in the Old Town, head to Barba. It’s tucked along a narrow street and has a relaxed, no-frills feel, but the seafood is excellent.

Their octopus burger and shrimp burger are the classics, and it’s a good option when you want something quick and tasty without committing to a long sit-down lunch in the middle of a sightseeing day.

Climb the Jesuit Staircase

The Jesuit Staircase is one of Dubrovnik’s most photogenic Old Town landmarks. Built in Baroque style, the staircase leads up to the Church of St. Ignatius and has become especially famous as the Walk of Shame filming location from Game of Thrones.

Even if you don’t care about the show, it’s worth seeing. The baroque staircase is dramatic, the surrounding square is beautiful, and the area feels slightly removed from the busiest part of Stradun.

Visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral

Dubrovnik Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is another easy Old Town stop. The current Baroque cathedral was built after the 1667 earthquake and houses a treasury with religious relics and artwork.

See the views from Mount Srd

For big views over Dubrovnik, head up Mount Srđ by cable car, hiking trail, taxi, or tour. From the top, you get that classic postcard view over the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic.

If you want to make it more adventurous, you can also add the Mount Srđ zipline, which sends you flying down two zip lines above Dubrovnik with views of the Old Town and coastline below. It’s not essential, but it’s a fun way to turn the viewpoint into more of an experience.

For a slower evening, skip the zipline and stay for sunset instead. You can book dinner at Panorama Restaurant at the top of the cable car, but reserve ahead because it gets busy. Otherwise, pack a drink or snack and enjoy the view without turning dinner into a military reservation operation.

Book your zipline adventure

Day 2 – Walls and Westeros

Day 2 of this Dubrovnik 5 day itinerary focuses on the city’s most iconic views: the Dubrovnik City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, and Lokrum Island.

This is also the best day to lean into Dubrovnik’s Game of Thrones side, with filming locations around the Old Town, the walls, Fort Lovrijenac, and Lokrum.

Explore the Dubrovnik City Walls

Start the day bright and early with a walk along the ancient Dubrovnik City Walls that surround Dubrovnik Old Town. Enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, red-tiled roofs, narrow alleys, Fort Lovrijenac, and the old harbor. The walls stretch for almost 2 km / 1.2 miles and offer one of the best perspectives of the city.

I highly recommend doing this first thing in the morning or just before sunset to avoid burning to death, as there really isn’t much shade and the walls heat up considerably in the scorching summer sun.

Best Dubrovnik City Walls Tickets and Tours:

• Pre-book your City Walls ticket if you want to walk the walls on your own.
• Grab the Dubrovnik Pass if you’re spending 1–3 days in Dubrovnik. It includes also museums and public transport.
• Book this City Walls walking tour if you want a focused guide to the walls.
• Purchase this City Walls audio guide if you want context without joining a group.
• Book this Old Town & City Walls tour if this is your first time in Dubrovnik and you want the full context.
• Book this private City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac tour if you want a more personal experience.
• Book this Game of Thrones tour if King’s Landing is a big reason you’re visiting (ticket included)

Keep in mind that apart from the GoT tour, none of the above tours include admission. You need to purchase your entrance ticket separately!

Coffee at Cogito Coffee

Cogito Coffee, a boutique coffee roaster tucked away beneath charming archways, is the perfect spot for a post-walk pick-me-up. Enjoy expertly crafted coffee and artisan ice cream.

Fort Lovrijenac

Fort Lovrijenac, also known as the “Dubrovnik Gibraltar,” is a fortress located just outside the western walls of Dubrovnik Old Town. It served as a defensive structure protecting the city from invasion and has also been used as a venue for events and performances throughout history.

It’s also one of the best places to look back at the City Walls from the outside, so don’t skip it after walking the walls. Entrance to Fort Lovrijenac is included with your City Walls ticket and Dubrovnik Pass.

Book your City Walls & Fort Lovrijenac Ticket

Book your Dubrovnik Pass

Explore the Rector’s Palace

The Rector’s Palace is a Gothic-Renaissance palace that served as the seat of government during the Dubrovnik Republic. Wander through the palace’s halls and chambers, and visit the Cultural History Museum to learn more about Dubrovnik’s history.

If you’re planning to visit the Rector’s Palace, City Walls, and several museums, check whether the Dubrovnik Pass makes better value than buying everything separately.

Book your Dubrovnik Pass

Black risotto at Buffet Kamenice

Buffet Kamenice is a beloved lunch spot in Dubrovnik which has stood the test of time. The restaurant is modest and the decor has been unchanged for decades, but it offers excellent and reasonably priced food. Try the black risotto which is made with squid ink for a unique flavor and look.

Discover Westeros on a GOT tour

Dubrovnik was one of the main filming locations for King’s Landing, the capital city of Westeros in the show. You can visit locations such as Fort Lovrijenac (Red Keep), the Jesuit Staircase (Cersei’s Walk of Shame), and the city walls (Battle of Blackwater).

If you’re a fan of the TV series Game of Thrones (GOT), I recommend you join this GOT tour which allows you to explore the iconic settings and landmarks that were featured in the series. Or opt for this Dubrovnik & Lokrum GOT tour which includes filming locations in town as well as on Lokrum Island.

My pick for this itinerary is the Game of Thrones tour with Lokrum Island, because it combines the Old Town filming locations with an easy island escape instead of making you book both separately.

Book this Old Town GOT tour

Book this Lokrum Island GOT tour

Hop over to Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is a short ferry ride away from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It is a nature reserve with lush greenery, peacocks, botanical gardens, and rocky beaches, as well as GOT filming locations. Lokrum also has a medieval monastery, a small saltwater lake, and hiking trails.

You can explore it on your own, do the already mentioned GOT tour which includes filming locations in town as well as on the island or join this kayaking tour and paddle around Dubrovnik and onto Lokrum island.

Book this Lokrum Island GOT tour

Book this Lokrum island kayaking tour

Dine in style at Nautika

Nautika Restaurant is located near the Old Town entrance and offers stunning views of Lovrijenac and Bokar forts. Once a maritime school, it now boasts a spectacular terrace and a team of talented chefs. While not budget-friendly, dining here is an unforgettable experience.

The food and service here are top-notch and Nautika is the perfect place for ending the day in style. I highly recommend you try the St. Jacob’s scallops, lobster tail freshly caught near the island of Vis, or veal fillet in Dubrovnik Malvasia sauce.

Reserve ahead, especially if you want a terrace table around sunset. Note that the restaurant is usually closed during winter.

Day 3 – Island hopping and cocktail sipping

Day 3 of this Dubrovnik 5 day itinerary is your slower island day. After two days in Dubrovnik Old Town, this is the point where I’d get out on the water and see the coast from a different angle.

Explore the Elafiti Islands

The Elafiti Islands are a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik and are one of the easiest and best day trips from Dubrovnik, especially if you want clear water, swimming stops, small island villages, and a proper break from the crowds in the Old Town.

The three main islands are Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, and each has a slightly different feel. Koločep is small and peaceful, Lopud is best known for sandy Šunj Beach, and Šipan feels the most traditional and lived-in.

Technically, you can visit the islands near Dubrovnik by public ferry, but honestly, I wouldn’t make that my first choice unless you’re very budget-focused. The ferry schedule can be limiting and logistics can get hard.

For this itinerary, I’d book this Elafiti Islands cruise instead. It’s much easier, more scenic, and better suited to a relaxed island-hopping day from Dubrovnik. You get to see multiple islands, swim, enjoy the coastline, and actually feel like you’re on holiday instead of figuring out ferry and bus timetables.

Book this Elafiti island cruise

Enjoy sunset drinks

After a day on the Elafiti Islands, keep the evening easy. This is not the night I’d plan another big sightseeing mission. Find a bar with a view, order something cold, and enjoy Dubrovnik doing what Dubrovnik does best: looking annoyingly beautiful at sunset.

These are my top pics for the night:

• Buža Bar: Built into the cliffs just outside the city walls, Buža Bar is one of Dubrovnik’s classic sunset drink spots. It’s casual, scenic, and more about the setting than polished service.
• Revelin Terrace: Set by Revelin Fortress, this is a better option if you want something livelier near the Old Town with cocktails, music, and views of the city walls.
• Cave Bar More: If you’re staying in Lapad or want to get out of the Old Town, Cave Bar More is a great choice. It’s set inside a natural cave by the sea, with a small waterfront area below the walking path. I finally made it here on my most recent Dubrovnik trip, and it’s absolutely worth the detour if you want a more unusual cocktail spot.

Day 4 – Beach and wine

Day 4 of this Dubrovnik 5 day itinerary is deliberately slower. This is the day to indulge in what Dalmatia does best; beaches and food. Spend the morning by the sea, take a proper break, and then head into the Dalmatian countryside for a local cooking class or wine tasting.

Kick back at the best Dubrovnik Beaches

Start Day 4 with a slow beach morning. Dubrovnik is famous for its Old Town, but one of the best parts of staying longer is having time to enjoy the coast without squeezing it between museums, walls, and walking tours.

For this itinerary, I’d choose your beach based on where you’re staying and how much effort you want to make:

• Banje Beach: Located just outside the city walls, Banje Beach is one of the most popular and easily accessible beaches in Dubrovnik. It offers a combination of pebbles and sand, stunning views of the Old Town, and various amenities like beach bars, loungers, and water sports activities.
• Sveti Jakov Beach: Situated a bit further from the city center, Sveti Jakov Beach is known for its pristine waters and scenic surroundings. It features a mix of pebbles and concrete areas, and its elevated position offers fantastic panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s coastline.
• Lapad Bay Beaches: Lapad Bay is a lovely area with several beaches to choose from. The most popular are Copacabana Beach, which offers a range of water sports and beach facilities, and Lapad Beach, a family-friendly pebble beach with calm waters and shaded areas.
• Cava Beach: Located near the Babin Kuk area, Cava Beach is a hidden gem tucked away from the crowds. It features rocky cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, and there’s a beach bar for refreshments.

Beach	Best for
Banje Beach	Easiest if staying near Old Town. Scenic, but busy.
Sveti Jakov Beach	Best views of Dubrovnik. More effort, but better for a proper beach morning.
Lapad / Uvala Lapad	Easiest relaxed beach area, with cafes and more space.
Bellevue Beach	Pretty tucked-away cove, but can be shaded depending on the time of day.

Take a cooking class or go on a wine tasting

After the beach, keep lunch light and head back to your hotel with enough time to shower and get ready. For the afternoon, choose between a hands-on cooking class, an easy Konavle wine tasting, or a more wine-focused trip to the Pelješac Peninsula.

Option A: Dalmatian cooking class

If you want the most immersive food experience, book this Dalmatian cooking class. It starts at 4 PM, includes round-trip transfer from your Dubrovnik hotel, and ends with a full 4-course meal, made by you.

You’ll learn traditional recipes with a local chef, then sit down to homemade cured meats, local cheeses, garden vegetables, a meat or fish main, and a local cake.

Option B: Konavle Valley wine tasting

If you prefer something lighter and more relaxed, book this Konavle Valley wine tasting instead. It starts around 3 PM, includes round-trip transport from Dubrovnik, and takes you to a family winery in the Konavle Valley for local wines, homemade liqueur, and a traditional Konavle plate with ham, cheese, olives, salad, and olive oil.

It also includes a visit to Cavtat Old Town, which makes it a nice low-effort countryside-and-coast afternoon without needing a car.

Option C: Pelješac Peninsula wine tour

If wine is the main priority, book this Pelješac Peninsula wine tour instead. Pelješac is one of Croatia’s best wine regions, and this tour takes you out of Dubrovnik to visit rural wineries and the historic town of Ston, with round-trip hotel transfer included.

It’s a better fit if you want a proper wine-focused afternoon rather than a light tasting close to the city. It’s a bit longer and it usually starts around 1 PM.

Book your Dalmatian cooking class

Book this wine tasting tour in Peljesac

Book this wine tasting tour in Konavle Valley

Day 5 – Day trip of Choice

Day 5 is the day to get out of the city properly. By now, you’ve seen Dubrovnik Old Town, walked the City Walls, visited the islands, and had some slower beach time and great food, so now it’s time for a proper day trip from Dubrovnik.

For your final day, choose between Mljet Island, Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls, or Kotor in Montenegro. Mljet is best for nature and swimming, Mostar is best for history and a completely different cultural feel, and Kotor is best for dramatic coastal scenery.

Option A: Mljet Island

Mljet is a larger island located a bit further from Dubrovnik, but it’s well worth the trip if you want nature, swimming, and a proper island escape. It’s best known for Mljet National Park, where you’ll find two saltwater lakes: Malo Jezero and Veliko Jezero.

On this fantastic boat tour, you can hike or rent bikes to explore the national park, visit Odysseus Cave, stop at beautiful beaches, and also visit Lopud and Koločep Islands.

For more island options closer to Dubrovnik, see my guide to the best islands near Dubrovnik.

This is the best Day 5 option if you want your final day to feel active but still relaxed, with more nature than sightseeing.

Book your Miljet island boat tour

Option B: Mostar and Kravice waterfalls in Bosnia

Mostar, located just across the border in Bosnia & Herzegovina, has a fascinating Ottoman history. It boasts charming old Turkish homes, elegant minarets, and cobbled streets.

During the turbulent Yugoslav wars of the 1990s, Mostar suffered significant damage, including the destruction of its iconic Stari Most Bridge which has been faithfully reconstructed, mirroring the original that met its demise.

On one side of the Neretva river, you can explore churches, while mosques await on the other side. Don’t miss the Old Bazaar, where you can enjoy a strong Turkish-style coffee and savor a plate of cevapcici.

There are quite a few tour options from Dubrovnik to Mostar but I highly recommend this tour which also stops at the gorgeous Kravice waterfalls.

Book your Mostar & Kravice waterfalls tour

Option C: Kotor in Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro is often described as Europe’s southernmost fjord, although technically it’s a submerged river canyon. Either way, the scenery is ridiculous: steep mountains, blue water, fortified towns, and one of the most dramatic coastal drives you can do from Dubrovnik.

Join this Montenegro tour to explore the villages of Perast and UNESCO-listed Kotor, enjoy scenic drives along the Adriatic, and take a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks island.

If you’re leaning toward Montenegro, I also have a full guide to planning a Dubrovnik to Kotor day trip.

Book your Montenegro tour to Kotor and Perast

Dubrovnik 4 day itinerary

With 4 days in Dubrovnik, you can cover the main sights without cramming everything into a frantic city break. You’ll have time for Dubrovnik Old Town, the City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Lokrum, one proper day trip, and a slower beach or wine day.

This version is ideal if you want the full Dubrovnik experience but don’t have enough time for multiple day trips. The first two days follow the same route as the 5-day itinerary, then Day 3 gives you a choice between Mljet, Mostar, Kotor, or the Elafiti Islands.

Day	Plan
Day 1	Dubrovnik Old Town, walking tour, Stradun, historic sights, Mount Srđ
Day 2	Dubrovnik City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Rector’s Palace, Game of Thrones tour, Lokrum
Day 3	Day trip of choice: Mljet, Mostar, Kotor, or Elafiti Islands, then sunset drinks
Day 4	Beach morning, then cooking class or wine tasting

Day 1 – Dubrovnik Old Town

Follow Day 1 of the 5-day Dubrovnik itinerary. This is your Old Town day, with a walking tour, Pile Gate, Onofrio’s Fountain, Stradun, the Franciscan Monastery, the Jesuit Staircase, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Mount Srđ.

If you only book one thing for your first day, book this Dubrovnik walking tour. It gives the Old Town proper context and makes the rest of the itinerary more meaningful.

Stop	What to do
Dubrovnik Walking Tour	Start with a guided Old Town walking tour so the city’s history, walls, Republic of Ragusa, and war damage make more sense. Book this walking tour
Stradun	Walk Dubrovnik’s main limestone street between Pile Gate and the Old Port. Go early or later in the evening if you want it without peak crowds.
Onofrio’s Fountain	See the large 15th-century fountain just inside Pile Gate, once part of Dubrovnik’s water supply system and still a popular meeting point.
Maskeron	Look for the small stone gargoyle head near the Franciscan Monastery and try the local balance challenge if you’re feeling brave.
Franciscan Monastery	Visit the peaceful cloister and one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe, right near Pile Gate.
Dubrovnik’s Gates	Notice Pile Gate, Ploče Gate, and Buža Gate as you move through the Old Town. You don’t need to hunt down every gate.
Lunch at Barba	Stop for a casual seafood lunch in the Old Town. The octopus burger and shrimp burger are the classics.
Jesuit Staircase	Climb the dramatic Baroque staircase leading to the Church of St. Ignatius, also known as the Game of Thrones Walk of Shame filming location.
Dubrovnik Cathedral	Visit the Baroque Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and its treasury of religious relics and artwork.
Mount Srđ	Head up by cable car, hiking trail, taxi, or tour for the classic view over Dubrovnik Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic. Add the zipline if you want a more adventurous end to the day.

Day 2 – Walls and Westeros

Follow Day 2 of the 5-day itinerary. Start early with the Dubrovnik City Walls, then visit Fort Lovrijenac, the Rector’s Palace, and either explore Dubrovnik’s Game of Thrones filming locations or head over to Lokrum Island.

Stop	What to do
Dubrovnik City Walls	Book your City Walls ticket if you want to walk independently. Choose the Dubrovnik Pass if you’ll also visit museums and use public transport. Book a City Walls walking tour, audio guide, Old Town & City Walls tour, private City Walls + Fort Lovrijenac tour, or Game of Thrones tour if you want more context. Apart from the GOT tour, check carefully because most tours do not include admission. Read my full Dubrovnik City Walls guide before you go.
Coffee at Cogito Coffee	Stop at Cogito Coffee after the walls for a proper post-walk caffeine fix. It’s a boutique coffee roaster tucked under charming Old Town archways.
Fort Lovrijenac	Visit Fort Lovrijenac, the “Dubrovnik Gibraltar,” just outside the western walls. It’s one of the best places to look back at the City Walls from the outside. Entrance is included with the City Walls ticket and Dubrovnik Pass. Book your City Walls & Fort Lovrijenac ticket or book your Dubrovnik Pass.
Rector’s Palace	Visit the Gothic-Renaissance palace that once served as the seat of government during the Dubrovnik Republic. If you’re visiting the Rector’s Palace, City Walls, and several museums, the Dubrovnik Pass may be better value. Book your Dubrovnik Pass.
Lunch at Buffet Kamenice	Stop for black risotto at Buffet Kamenice, a long-standing Dubrovnik lunch spot with modest decor, fair prices, and classic seafood dishes.
Game of Thrones tour	If King’s Landing is a big reason you’re visiting, book a GOT tour instead of trying to find every filming location yourself. My pick is the Game of Thrones tour with Lokrum Island because it combines Old Town locations with the island escape. Book the Old Town GOT tour or book the Lokrum Island GOT tour.
Lokrum Island	Hop over to Lokrum Island for greenery, peacocks, rocky beaches, the monastery, the small saltwater lake, hiking trails, and GOT filming locations. Go independently by ferry, book the Lokrum Island GOT tour, or choose the Lokrum kayaking tour if you’d rather see Dubrovnik and Lokrum from the water.
Dinner at Nautika	End the day at Nautika for views of Fort Lovrijenac and Bokar Fortress. It’s expensive, but memorable. Reserve ahead, especially for a sunset terrace table, and note that it’s usually closed in winter.

Day 3 – Day trip of Choice and Drinks

Day 3 is your bigger day out of Dubrovnik. Choose your daytrip between Mljet Island, Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls, Kotor in Montenegro, or the Elafiti Islands, depending on what kind of day you want.

Day trip	Best for	Recommended tour
Mljet Island	Nature, swimming, national park scenery, and a more active island day	Mljet Island boat tour
Mostar + Kravice Waterfalls	History, culture, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a completely different feel from the coast	Mostar & Kravice Waterfalls tour
Kotor, Montenegro	Dramatic scenery, another walled town, and the most impressive coastal views	Montenegro tour to Kotor and Perast
Elafiti Islands	The easiest relaxed island-hopping day from Dubrovnik	Elafiti Islands cruise

If you’re choosing between islands, my islands near Dubrovnik guide will help you compare the options. If you’re leaning toward Montenegro, read my full Dubrovnik to Kotor day trip guide before booking. Or check my Dubrovnik day trips guide for the full list of options.

End the day with sunset drinks once you’re back in Dubrovnik. Keep it easy. This is not the night to squeeze in more sightseeing. Go for

• Buža Bar if you want the classic cliffside Old Town setting,
• Revelin Terrace if you want something livelier near the walls, or
• Cave Bar More if you’re staying in Lapad and want something more unusual by the sea.

Day 4 – Beach, dine, and wine

Use your final day for a slower beach morning and a countryside food or wine experience. After three active days, this gives the itinerary some breathing room.

Start with one of Dubrovnik’s beaches:

Beach	Best for
Banje Beach	Easiest if staying near Old Town. Scenic, but busy.
Sveti Jakov Beach	Best views of Dubrovnik. More effort, but better for a proper beach morning.
Lapad / Uvala Lapad	Easiest relaxed beach area, with cafes and more space.
Bellevue Beach	Pretty tucked-away cove, but can be shaded depending on the time of day.

After the beach, keep lunch light and head back to your hotel with enough time to shower and get ready. For the afternoon, choose between a Dalmatian cooking class, Konavle wine tasting, or a Pelješac wine tour.

Pick your gourmet experience:

Experience	Best for	Recommended tour
Dalmatian countryside cooking class	The most immersive food experience, with a hands-on class and full dinner included	Book this Dalmatian countryside cooking class
Konavle Valley wine tasting	An easier wine afternoon close to Dubrovnik, with local wine, snacks, and Cavtat	Book this Konavle Valley wine tasting
Pelješac Peninsula wine tour	Serious wine lovers who want to visit one of Croatia’s best wine regions	Book this Pelješac Peninsula wine tour

Dubrovnik 3 day itinerary

With 3 days in Dubrovnik, you can see the Old Town, walk the City Walls, add a short beach or island break, enjoy a food or wine experience, and still fit in one proper day trip. This is a faster-paced itinerary than the 4 or 5 day versions, so you’ll need to be more decisive and book key tours ahead.

Day	Plan
Day 1	Dubrovnik Old Town, walking tour, historic sights, then cooking class or wine tasting
Day 2	City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, short beach or Lokrum break, Mount Srđ, dinner with a view
Day 3	Day trip of choice: Mljet, Mostar, Kotor, or Elafiti Islands

Day 1 – Dubrovnik Old Town and Food Experience

Day 1 is your Old Town orientation day, but because this is a 3 day Dubrovnik itinerary, it needs to move faster than the 4 or 5 day versions. Start with the main historic sights in Dubrovnik Old Town, then use the afternoon for a local food or wine experience outside the city.

This works best if you begin early and join this Dubrovnik walking tour.

For the afternoon, choose one of these experiences: Dalmatian countryside cooking class or the Konavle Valley wine tasting.

Stop	What to do
Dubrovnik Walking Tour	Start with an Old Town walking tour so the city’s history, walls, Republic of Ragusa, and war damage make more sense. Book this walking tour
Stradun + Onofrio’s Fountain	Walk the main limestone street through Dubrovnik Old Town and stop by the 15th-century fountain just inside Pile Gate.
Franciscan Monastery	Visit the cloister and one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe.
Jesuit Staircase + Dubrovnik Cathedral	See two easy Old Town highlights, including the Baroque staircase famous from Game of Thrones.
Rector’s Palace	Add this if you’re using the Dubrovnik Pass or want more Dubrovnik Republic history.
Cooking class or wine tasting	Choose this Dalmatian cooking class or opt for Konavle wine tasting.

Day 2 – Walls, Westeros, Beach and Views

Day 2 is the big Dubrovnik views day. Start with the Dubrovnik City Walls before the heat and crowds build, then visit Fort Lovrijenac for the classic view back toward the walled city.

After that, you have to choose: keep the afternoon light with a short beach break, or spend more time on Lokrum Island. Don’t try to do every beach and Lokrum and a full museum day if you only have limited days.

Stop	What to do
Dubrovnik City Walls	Start early with the Dubrovnik City Walls for the best views over the Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac, the old harbor, and the Adriatic. Book your City Walls ticket or book a guided City Walls tour
Fort Lovrijenac	Visit the fortress just outside the western walls for one of the best views back toward Dubrovnik Old Town. Entrance is included with the City Walls ticket and Dubrovnik Pass.
Coffee at Cogito Coffee	Stop for a proper post-walls coffee before continuing.
Rector’s Palace or GOT tour	Choose Rector’s Palace if you want more history, or a Game of Thrones tour if King’s Landing is a big reason you’re here. Book the Old Town GOT tour or Lokrum Island GOT tour
Short beach break or Lokrum	Choose a quick swim at Banje, Sveti Jakov, Bellevue, or Lapad, or kayak to Lokrum if you want more of an island escape.
Mount Srđ	Head up by cable car, taxi, hike, or tour for the classic sunset view over Dubrovnik, Lokrum, and the Adriatic. Add the zipline if you want a more adventurous finish. Book your zipline adventure
Dinner with a view	Choose Panorama Restaurant at the top of Mount Srđ or Nautika near Pile Gate and Fort Lovrijenac. Reserve both ahead.

Day 3 – Day trip of Choice and Drinks

Day 3 is your bigger day out of Dubrovnik. Since this itinerary only gives you three days, pick one day trip and make it count. Don’t try to combine Montenegro, Bosnia, islands, and wine unless your idea of a holiday is border-crossing bingo with dehydration.

Day trip	Best for	Recommended tour
Mljet Island	Nature, swimming, national park scenery, and a more active island day	Mljet Island boat tour
Mostar + Kravice Waterfalls	History, culture, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a completely different feel from the coast	Mostar & Kravice Waterfalls tour
Kotor, Montenegro	Dramatic scenery, another walled town, and the most impressive coastal views	Montenegro tour to Kotor and Perast
Elafiti Islands	Easiest relaxed island-hopping day from Dubrovnik	Elafiti Islands cruise

Once you’re back in Dubrovnik, end the trip with drinks with a view. Keep it simple:

• Buža Bar for the classic cliffside Old Town setting,
• Revelin Terrace if you want something livelier near the walls, or
• Cave Bar More if you’re staying in Lapad and want a more unusual sea-level spot inside a natural cave.

Dubrovnik 2 day itinerary

With two days in Dubrovnik you’ll be able to experience the Old Town and its immediate surroundings like Lokrum Island, but you’ll be short-pressed for time when it comes to day trips and wine tastings.

Day 1 – City Walls, Old Town + Mount Srđ

Day 1 is the big Dubrovnik highlights day. Start with the Dubrovnik City Walls before the heat and crowds build, then explore the Old Town at street level, visit Fort Lovrijenac, and end with the classic sunset view from Mount Srđ.

Stop	What to do
Dubrovnik City Walls	Start early with the Dubrovnik City Walls for the best views over the Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac, the old harbor, and the Adriatic. Book your City Walls ticket or book a guided City Walls tour.
Old Town walking route	Walk through Pile Gate, Onofrio’s Fountain, Stradun, Luža Square, Rector’s Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Jesuit Staircase, Old Port, and Ploče Gate. Book this Dubrovnik walking tour if you want proper context.
Lunch at Barba	Keep lunch casual and central. Barba is ideal for a quick seafood lunch without losing half the day.
Fort Lovrijenac + West Harbour	Visit Fort Lovrijenac for one of the best views back toward the City Walls. Entrance is included with the City Walls ticket and Dubrovnik Pass.
Short swim or Buža Bar	Choose Banje Beach, Šulić Beach, or Buža Bar if you want a quick sea break close to the Old Town. Don’t turn this into a full beach day.
Mount Srđ	Head up by cable car, taxi, hiking trail, or tour for sunset views over Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic. Add the zipline if you want a more adventurous finish. Book your zipline adventure.
Dinner with a view	Choose Panorama Restaurant at the top of Mount Srđ or head back down for dinner near the Old Town. Reserve ahead.

Day 2 – Choose Your Dubrovnik Experience

Day 2 of this 2 day Dubrovnik itinerary is your flexible experience day. You’ve already covered the City Walls, Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac, and Mount Srđ on Day 1, so today is about choosing the Dubrovnik experience that fits your travel style: Game of Thrones filming locations, Lokrum Island, sea kayaking, or a local food and wine experience.

You can comfortably combine one morning activity with one afternoon or evening experience, but don’t try to do everything. Pick the version that sounds most like you.

In the morning pick between Game of Thrones tour, Lokrum Island, or sea kayaking, use your afternoon for a beach break, or extra Old Town time if you’re planing on joining a Dalmatian cooking class or Konavle wine tasting, Or hop on this Dubrovnik Boat Tour in the afternoon and spend the evening in the Old Town.

Experience	Best for	Recommended tour
Lokrum Island	Easy island escape with peacocks, gardens, swimming, and GOT locations	Book this Lokrum Island GOT tour
Sea kayaking	Seeing the City Walls and Lokrum from the water	Book this Lokrum kayaking tour
Dalmatian cooking class	Hands-on local food experience with dinner included	Book this Dalmatian countryside cooking class
Konavle Valley wine tasting	Easy wine afternoon close to Dubrovnik	Book this Konavle Valley wine tasting
Dubrovnik Boat Tour	Time out on sea, views and a short visit to Lokrum + Elafiti Islands	Book this Dubrovnik Boat Tour

Getting to Dubrovnik, Croatia

By Air: Dubrovnik is serviced by Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) which is well-connected with flights from major cities worldwide. Book a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation for a seamless start to your Dubrovnik adventure.

By Sea: Dubrovnik can be reached by ferry from nearby islands. This is a scenic and convenient way to experience the stunning coastline.

By Car: Driving to Dubrovnik offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, but be prepared for potential border crossings—consider taking the bridge to Pelješac or planning your route to avoid passing through Bosnia. Keep in mind the limited parking availability in the city center, so it’s wise to plan ahead or book accommodations with parking options.

By Bus: Dubrovnik is easy to reach by bus, with direct connections from major Croatian cities like Split and Zagreb. The bus station is located in Gruž, a short bus or taxi ride from the Old Town.

Getting around Dubrovnik

Getting around Dubrovnik is easy. The Old Town is a pedestrian zone and where everything is within walking distance. If you’re staying outside the Old Town there are taxis and public buses that will get you to the city walls. For a different view, consider boat or kayak trips along the coast to experience the city from the water.

Best time to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is in April and October, when the weather is warm but the tourist crowds are thinner and you can score some good deals.

The high season in Dubrovnik runs from May to September and this is when things really heat up—literally! If visiting in the summer months be ready for crowds, higher prices, and the scorching sun.

The winter in Dubrovnik is mild and pleasant. While you won’t be able to enjoy the beach as much, you’ll be able to score some good deals. The city is still lively, but without the insane crowds it sees in high season.

Dubrovnik Itinerary FAQ

Is 2 days enough in Dubrovnik?

Yes, 2 days in Dubrovnik is enough for the main highlights, especially if you stay near the Old Town and plan your route well. I’d spend one day exploring the Old Town, then one day walking the Dubrovnik City Walls, visiting Fort Lovrijenac, and adding Lokrum Island, sea kayaking, or sunset drinks.

Two days is not ideal if you want to add a proper day trip. For that, stay at least 3 or 4 days and use this itinerary together with my guide to the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Is 5 days in Dubrovnik too long?

Five days in Dubrovnik is too long if you only want to see the Old Town. But it works really well if you want a slower trip with beaches, islands, wine, and use Dubrovnik as your base for day trips.

I wouldn’t spend five full days just walking around the historic center. By day three, you’ll probably want to get out to Lokrum, Lapad, Gruž, Cavtat, the Elafiti Islands, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, or Pelješac or some of the amazing islands near Dubrovnik.

What should you not miss in Dubrovnik?

For a first visit, don’t miss the Dubrovnik City Walls, Fort Lovrijenac, Stradun, the Old Port, and at least one view from above or from the sea. My personal favorites are the City Walls early or late in the day, Fort Lovrijenac for the view back toward the walls, and the coastline around Lapad when you need a break from the crowds.

For a fuller breakdown of sights, beaches, viewpoints, tours, and local areas beyond the Old Town, read my guide to the best things to do in Dubrovnik

What is the best area to stay in Dubrovnik for this itinerary?

For this itinerary, I’d stay in Pile, Ploče, Old Town, or Lapad.

Pile and Ploče are the most practical if you want easy Old Town access without sleeping inside the walls. Old Town is atmospheric but annoying with luggage, stairs, and crowds. Lapad is better if you want beaches, more space, and usually better value.

For the full breakdown, read my where to stay in Dubrovnik guide. If you already know you want a hotel, my best hotels in Dubrovnik guide is the more useful one.

Do you need a car in Dubrovnik?

No, you don’t need a car in Dubrovnik itself. The Old Town is pedestrian-only, parking is expensive, and vehicle access around the historic core is restricted during much of the main visitor season.

A car only makes sense if Dubrovnik is part of a wider Croatia road trip. If you’re flying in and staying mostly around Dubrovnik, use airport transfers, buses, taxis, boats, and day tours instead. You’ll also have a much easier time if you stay somewhere practical, which is why I’d sort your accommodation using my Dubrovnik area guide before deciding whether to rent a car.

Where do cruise ships dock in Dubrovnik?

Most cruise ships dock at Gruž Port, not directly by the Old Town. From Gruž, you’ll need to take a bus, taxi, shuttle, or transfer to Pile Gate, which is the main entrance area for Dubrovnik Old Town.

If you’re visiting from a cruise and only have a few hours, don’t use this full multi-day itinerary. Use my one day in Dubrovnik itinerary instead, then adapt it to your port times.

Planning a trip to Croatia?

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).