How to Spend 24 Hours in Dubrovnik: The Perfect Itinerary

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a captivating city nestled along the stunning coastline of Croatia. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and charming Old Town, Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for any traveler. If you find yourself with just a day to explore this enchanting city, fear not! I’ve crafted the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Dubrovnik. So here is How to spend 24 hours in Dubrovnik.

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Getting to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is located in the southern region of Croatia, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The city is served by Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), which is well-connected to major European cities through regular flights. From the airport, you can easily reach the city center by taxi, shuttle bus, or rental car.

Getting Around Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. The city’s Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, with narrow cobblestone streets and historic landmarks waiting to be discovered around every corner. For longer journeys, you can use the city’s efficient public bus system or opt for taxis and ride-sharing services. Parking is a little tricky around the city, so definitely walking is the best option to explore the city.

Weather in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. In summer, temperatures can soar, making it the perfect time to enjoy the city’s beaches and outdoor activities. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the city’s historic sites.

Morning: Explore the Old Town

Start your day with a stroll through Dubrovnik’s iconic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Begin at Pile Gate, one of the main entrances to the Old Town, and make your way towards the historic city walls. Before entering you can admire Fort Lovrijenac, the well known place recognizable from the TV series Game of Thrones.

Activity: Walk the City Walls

Climb to the top of the city walls for panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s red-roofed buildings and sparkling blue sea. The walls, which date back to the 13th century, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and provide excellent photo opportunities at every turn. There are many ways to explore this area, but I recommend taking a walking tour. Here are a few options that I liked.

Access:

You can access the city walls from several points around the Old Town, including Pile Gate and Ploče Gate, two of the main entrances to Dubrovnik’s historic center. Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll ascend a staircase to reach the top of the walls, where your adventure begins.

Price:

Tickets to walk the city walls can be purchased at the entrance gates or online in advance. The cost varies depending on the time of year, with higher prices during peak tourist season. However, the experience is well worth the investment. In May 2024 the price was 35 euros for the Walls Walk and the Fortress.

As you make your way along the walls, be sure to stop at strategic points to soak in the best views of Dubrovnik and its surroundings. Highlights include: Minceta Tower or Old Port. Climb to the top of Minceta Tower for panoramic views of the Old Town and Lokrum Island. Look down upon Dubrovnik’s bustling Old Port, where colorful boats bob in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic.

Lunch: Dine at a Lucin Kantun

For lunch, head to Lucin Kantun, a charming eatery nestled in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This hidden gem is renowned for its mouthwatering selection of traditional Croatian dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Here’s what to savor at Lucin Kantun:

1. Black Risotto (Crni Rižot): Indulge in a savory serving of black risotto, a classic Croatian dish made with Arborio rice, cuttlefish ink, garlic, onion, and white wine. This flavorful delicacy is a staple of Dalmatian cuisine and offers a rich, seafood-infused taste that will tantalize your taste buds.

2. Grilled Seafood Platter (Plata Mista): Treat yourself to a delectable platter of grilled seafood, featuring a variety of fresh-caught delights from the Adriatic Sea. From succulent shrimp and tender calamari to buttery fish fillets, this mouthwatering dish showcases the best of Dubrovnik’s coastal flavors.

3. Pasticada: Sink your teeth into a hearty serving of pasticada, a traditional Croatian beef stew slow-cooked in a rich, wine-infused sauce. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or homemade pasta, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

Afternoon: Discover Lokrum Island

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to Lokrum Island. Located just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port. This lush, green island is a nature lover’s paradise, home to botanical gardens, hidden coves, and peacocks roaming freely. To get there take the Ferry from the port. The journey time is around 15 minutes. The price of a foot passenger ticket is 7.00 Euro.

Activity: Relax on Banje Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Banje Beach, one of Dubrovnik’s most popular seaside destinations. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic or unwind with a refreshing cocktail at one of the beachfront bars.

Evening: Sunset at Mount Srđ

End your day with a breathtaking sunset experience at Mount Srđ, which offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding coastline. You can reach the summit by hiking, taking the cable car, or driving up the winding mountain road.

Dinner: Indulge in Seafood Delights

For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at one of Dubrovnik’s waterfront restaurants. Sample fresh-caught fish, grilled squid, or lobster prepared in traditional Dalmatian style, accompanied by local side dishes such as Swiss chard and potatoes.

Dubrovnik is an interesting and captivating destination and you could benefit of staying overnight, if your itinerary allows you. So if you decide to do that I recommend staying at the Hilton Imperial, a hotel with a Mediterranean vibe built in a historic building from 1897. The best part about it- it has direct views over the Fortress. If you are looking to stay in a budget-friendly accommodation you can choose the Old Town Apartments. But you should keep in mind that most hotels situated in the central part of Dubrovnik are not really cheap.

Conclusion

With its picturesque scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Dubrovnik offers a wealth of experiences to satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust. Whether you’re exploring the city’s ancient streets, lounging on its sun-kissed beaches, or admiring its panoramic vistas, Dubrovnik is sure to leave you spellbound. So pack your bags, follow this itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Adriatic!

RELATED POSTS: If you plan to also visit Montenegro or other parts of Croatia check my other blog posts. Best Montenegro Itinerary or Best cities to visit in Croatia on a road trip.