Last updated on May 4th, 2025 at 08:56 pm
After spending 2 weeks backpacking around Croatia and spending a lot of time in the city, I found the 4 best things to do in Dubrovnik if you have limited time to explore!
The beautiful gem that sits perfectly along the Adriatic Sea, is becoming a favorite for many travelers looking for cheaper prices and fewer crowds. During peak season (June-August) Croatia does get hit with the usual influx of tourists and cruise shippers, but there are still many under-the-radar gems to be found across the country. Small in size, it’s actually quite doable to visiting a few places in Croatia and find where the locals frequent. From Dubrovnik to Split it’s a little less than a three-hour drive, then to Zagreb it’s four– road trip time!
From food tours along the coast to panoramic views from cliff sides, there’s so much to do in Dubrovnik for every type of traveler and all ages. Here’s some of my favorites.
Take The Cable Car To See Panoramic Views Of Dubrovnik
If you’re an adrenalin junkie looking for the best views of the city, the Dubrovnik Cable Car is for you. The roundtrip cost is only $28, and is very worth it for the views. At the top, there’s a panoramic restaurant shops, an amphitheater, museum, gallery, and other activities for the adventure lovers out there.
Decorated with sprawling tables and umbrellas, the Panorama Restaurant sits atop the 412-meter mountain. If you want to secure an optimal viewing spot and some shade, be sure to make a reservation! Walk-ins are accepted, but you may be in a sunny area.
Dine here for the freshest dishes and prime views of the Adriatic Sea (if you love seafood, order the Dalmatian Trilogy.. you won’t regret it).
Climb The City Walls
Another excellent choice to see Dubrovnik from above, are the city walls. The walls are 1940-meters long, with 6 fortresses scattered throughout. If your plan is to stay close to the center, this is an ideal way to begin or end your day, as you can explore the walls at your own pace!
My tip would be to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the cruise-ship crowds. The cost is about $30. Along the way you’ll see cute souvenir pop-ups, restaurants/cafes with sprawling views of the water, and even get a little peak into the yards of those who live within the walls. This was also one of the filming spots for Game of Thrones, so if you’re a fan, do this.
This tour includes a walking tour of the city and panoramic view!
Go For A Dip At Banje Beach
A buzzing beach club is what you’d expect from Croatia, but Banje Beach has so much more to offer. Located a short walk from the walls, Banje has it all; water sports, bar/restaurant, and cliff jumping.
You can visit the private side, where you’ll have to pay for umbrellas, towels, and a day bed, or you can opt for the public side which fills up quite quickly, and can be somewhat pebbly.
We chose the latter, and spent most of the afternoon swimming and enjoying the sports! The restaurant area has excellent cocktails, and will most likely be playing music all day.
Take Your Time Exploring Old Town Dubrovnik
A favorite past-time is strolling along the winding alleyways of Old Town, Dubrovnik. You’ll feel as though you stepped into a Game of Throne episode (if you’re a fan, you can even do a GOT tour around the city to some of the filming locations), as the stone buildings tower above, and the stones hug your feet.
It’s easy to spend hours in this small city, browsing craft stores, hidden bars, and buzzing eateries.
