Why Dubrovnik should be on your travel list

Dubrovnik should be considered as a must-visit destination when planning a trip. It is such a beautiful place, but sometimes overlooked. I want to tell you that this city still delivers up to the expectations, but the trick is to know when to visit it! Here is your guide for Why Dubrovnik should be on your travel list in 2025.

If you are planning a visit to Dubrovnik anywhere from May to September you should probably reconsider it, especially if your focus is only visiting Dubrovnik in Croatia. I’ve visited the city in April and it was fabulous. Keep in mind that most people take a vacation in the summer from June to August. This is the critical period that you should avoid if you want to enjoy Dubrovnik at its fullest! The narrow streets get pretty busy and the city really crowded, making it impossible to find a good spot for lunch and the higher temperatures in July are not the ideal time to walk the walls of the Old Town. But yet, again, if that is only time you have available I can help you make the most of your time.

A WELL PRESERVED MEDIEVAL TOWN

Dubrovnik is hands down one of the most incredible medieval cities in the world. The Walled Old Town is its crown jewel—and for good reason. Imagine walking along ancient stone walls with the Mediterranean sun warming the terracotta rooftops, and you’ll understand why people call this place the Pearl of Croatia. You can check my Instagram for some amazing photo spots.

The whole scene is so surreal it feels like you’ve stepped into a mythical world where dragons existed—cue the Game of Thrones vibes (yes, King’s Landing fans, you’re in the right place!).

Even the modern parts of Dubrovnik don’t feel out of place. They somehow blend seamlessly into the Old Town, giving the feeling that it’s not there to rob the Walled City of its prestige but to enhance it.

THE WEATHER in DUBROVNIK

Needless to say, its location on the Adriatic coast has its perks and benefits. The Mediterranean climate offers you enough sunny days regarding the season. So you can hit the beach or just soak in the sun. Also, the water is clear, and in contrast with the red roofs, the blueish water stands out even more. The sun shines for a whopping 2555 hours a year making it one of the sunniest cities in Southern Europe!

CONVENIENT ON FOOT

The best way to enjoy Dubrovnik is to walk, and believe me you can do that for hours. Dubrovnik has just the size for it! The Old Town with its mesmerising limestone streets can be explored on foot in just one day. And if you want to be a bit more adventurous you can take the cable car on the top of Sdr Hill and enjoy the scenic view on the Old Town with some of the islands just guarding the city surrounded by crystal waters.

Dubrovnik is a perfect destination to visit regarding the season. It can offer you a trip to a city filled with history and also surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

If you are interested in finding your next travel destination for this summer you can also check out my posts about Lisbon or London.

CAFES AND CUISINE WITH A VIEW

Croatian food deserves more hype. In Dubrovnik, you can savor fresh seafood, truffle pasta, and local wines while overlooking the sea. Try restaurants like Panorama (on Mount Srđ) or 360 (Michelin-starred and stunning) for a culinary experience that’s just as memorable as the scenery.

So these are some of the reasons why Dubrovnik should be on your travel list in 2025.

✨ What You Should Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik (From Someone Who’s Been!)

There’s something magical about walking through Dubrovnik for the first time. The polished limestone streets, the towering stone walls, the scent of the sea hanging in the air—it’s a dream. But let me tell you, as someone who’s been, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I went.
So before you pack your bags and book that dreamy apartment with sea views, here’s what you really need to know about Dubrovnik.

💶 Dubrovnik Isn’t Exactly a Budget Destination

Let’s start with the truth: Dubrovnik is not cheap. Especially if you’re staying in the Old Town, the prices can surprise you. A coffee that costs €2.50 elsewhere in Croatia might cost double here. Same for meals and even entrance fees. (Yes, walking the walls is iconic, but it’s also around €40!).

👟 Bring the Right Shoes (Seriously)

Those pretty limestone streets? Gorgeous. But also… incredibly slippery. I watched more than one tourist do a dramatic, slow-motion slip. Plus, there are so many stairs—especially if your Airbnb is tucked away in one of the hilly backstreets.

Trust me: forget the fashion sandals. Bring sturdy, non-slip shoes, and thank me later.

🏖️ Beaches Are Gorgeous—but Not Sandy

If you’re dreaming of soft sand under your toes, Dubrovnik might surprise you. Most of the beaches here are pebbled or rocky, but what they lack in sand, they more than make up for in views. The water is so crystal-clear, it looks edited.

🚫 No Cars in the Old Town

This one surprised me: Dubrovnik’s Old Town is completely pedestrian. It’s part of its charm, but it also means you’ll be carrying your luggage over cobblestones and up steps if your accommodation is inside the walls.

Pack light if you can—or at least make sure your suitcase has sturdy wheels!

🎟️ Get the Dubrovnik Pass (Your Wallet Will Thank You)

One thing I did right? I bought the Dubrovnik Pass. It got me into the City Walls, several museums, and even covered some local transport. If you’re planning to see the main sights, it’s a great way to save a few euros without sacrificing the experience. If you are visiting season of 2025 the price is going to be 40 euros per day. But considering that only the entrance price for the Walls is that amount, I think that this option might make your trip cost efficient.

Dubrovnik isn’t just beautiful—it’s layered, full of quirks, and incredibly rewarding if you know what to expect. And now that you do, I have a feeling you’ll fall for it just like I did.