Last summer, we wanted a sunny getaway, so we chose a short break: 3 days in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Dubrovnik, a top Mediterranean destination, sits on Croatia’s southern Adriatic coast. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its iconic Old Town, encircled by ancient city walls, is the main attraction. If you’ve seen Game of Thrones, you’ll recognize Dubrovnik’s Old Town as “King’s Landing.”
We spent 3 days in Dubrovnik exploring its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture. Now, we’re excited to share our experience and help inspire your next trip to this stunning city!
Dubrovnik Old Town
The Old Town of Dubrovnik is one of the world’s finest and best-preserved medieval towns—a must-see for any visitor. For centuries, it rivaled Venice as a major trading port, protected by its massive defensive walls. You can walk along these walls to take in breathtaking views of the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
Strolling through Dubrovnik’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. To truly appreciate its rich history, we recommend joining the Guided Walking Tour. Popular highlights include Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace, the cathedral, Saint Blaise Church, Onofrio’s Square, and the Market Square.
For Game of Thrones fans, the Game of Thrones Tour is a must-do. A local guide takes you on a unique walking tour through the key locations in Dubrovnik used to film iconic scenes from King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.
Visiting the Dubrovnik City Walls
Visiting the Dubrovnik city walls is a must during your 3 days in Dubrovnik. Our tour took about 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops for photos. Be prepared for numerous steps along the way, but the effort is well worth it.
To avoid the intense summer heat, we recommend walking the walls in the early morning or late afternoon. The views are absolutely breathtaking, offering panoramic sights of the city and the nearby Lokrum Island.
Admission to Dubrovnik’s city walls also includes access to Lovrijenac Fortress, a key part of the city’s historic defenses. Perched on a 37-meter-high rock just outside the western wall, the fortress boasts breathtaking views of the sea.
Accessible via roughly 200 steps, Lovrijenac has become famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones. It also serves as a stage for Shakespeare’s Hamlet during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. The fortress’s three terraces provide ideal vantage points for capturing stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
Whare to stay in Dubrovnik
Tourism in Dubrovnik centers around two main areas: the Lapad Peninsula and the Old Town. The Lapad Peninsula, known for its residential neighborhoods, is especially popular with families. With attractions like Copacabana Beach and a natural park, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the lively Old Town.
In contrast, the Old Town is the heart of Dubrovnik’s tourism, bustling with energy day and night. It’s home to numerous historical sites and cultural landmarks but can be noisy in the evenings.
During our 3 days in Dubrovnik, we stayed at Tango & Mango Apartments, tucked away in a quiet lane within the Old Town. Despite its central location, the lane was peaceful. The apartment, though compact, was cozy and equipped with all the essentials. For charm and convenience, we highly recommend staying in the Old Town.
Dining in Dubrovnik
Beyond its ancient architecture and stunning panoramas, Dubrovnik offers a rich dining scene. The Old Town is brimming with charming restaurants, many hidden in picturesque narrow lanes. A night out here is the perfect chance to savor traditional Croatian cuisine, including:
- Crni rižot: Black risotto with squid ink and cuttlefish.
- Buzara: Stewed seafood with white wine, garlic, and parsley.
- Brudet: Fish stew served with polenta.
- Pasticada: Stewed beef marinated in wine and herbs with a plum sauce.
On our first night, we dined at Lokanda Peskarija by the small port. Sharing a delicious fish grill for two with local white wine, we enjoyed stunning views of the port and city walls—a highly recommended spot for quality seafood and scenic dining.
Keep in mind, portions can be generous; some starters may work as mains. When in doubt, ask your server.
At night, Dubrovnik’s Old Town buzzes with energy. Outdoor bars serve refreshing cocktails, while gelato shops offer high-quality treats—a perfect way to end your evening stroll.
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Relax at Dubrovnik's Best Beaches
As beach lovers, we couldn’t resist exploring Dubrovnik’s stunning coastal spots. During our 3 days in Dubrovnik, we visited two beautiful beaches: Banje Beach and Sveti Jakov Beach.
Banje Beach
Banje Beach, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, is a mix of pebbles and sand—water shoes are recommended. You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds starting at 6€, making it easy to relax by the clear blue waters. The beach also features a bar and restaurant serving main courses, snacks, and refreshments. While it can get crowded, the stunning views of the Adriatic and the Old Town’s picturesque backdrop make Banje Beach a must-visit.
Sveti Jacov Beach
Sveti Jakov Beach, about a 30-minute walk from the Old Town, provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds. Popular with locals, this beach features a mix of pebbles and sand, so water shoes are recommended. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available to rent, starting at 8€.
A single bar and restaurant on-site offer refreshments and a shaded spot to escape the summer heat. However, accessibility can be challenging due to the nearly 200 steps leading down to the beach, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues. Despite this, Sveti Jakov Beach’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning Adriatic views make it a worthwhile visit during your 3 days in Dubrovnik.
Must-Know Tips for Visiting Dubrovnik
Local Currency
As of January 2023, Croatia is part of the Eurozone, and the Euro is now the official currency. Cards are widely accepted across Croatia, especially in Dubrovnik. For a short visit, there’s no need to convert cash beforehand.
The best way to pay in Croatia is with a card that offers low or no currency conversion fees. During our 3 days in Dubrovnik, we used Revolut for its convenience and competitive exchange rates. It’s a user-friendly app that’s handy for all travels. If you’d like to try it, you can download it easily via our referral link.
Drinkable Water
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, and the Dalmatian region boasts some of the cleanest water in the world. Simply bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at fountains throughout the city, such as the famous Onofrio’s Fountain. Enjoy fresh, cool water while staying hydrated during your 3 days in Dubrovnik.
Quick Tip: Take advantage of Dubrovnik’s drinkable tap water and skip buying plastic bottles. At Departure Gate 1 in Dubrovnik Airport, you’ll find a tap with free water to refill your bottle before you leave.
How to Reach Dubrovnik
To reach Dubrovnik’s Old Town from the airport, the most convenient option is the Platanus Bus. Tickets can be purchased HERE or at the kiosk inside the airport. The bus stop is just outside the arrivals exit on the right-hand side. Simply get off at the first stop to reach the Old Town.
For your return to the airport, the bus stop is located near the Dubrovnik cable car.
If you prefer more convenience, you can also book a private transfer via the link below.
What to pack for a 3-day trip to Dubrovnik
3 days in Dubrovnik offers a perfect glimpse into the city, and in our opinion, it’s enough time to fully enjoy what it has to offer. Packing smart and light is key—there’s no need to carry heavy luggage for a short trip.
For packing tips, check out our blog post on “What to Pack for a Summer Trip“, where we share our best advice for efficient packing.
Final Thoughts on Our 3 Days in Dubrovnik
In this blog post, we’ve shared our experience of 3 days in Dubrovnik. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a road trip through Croatia, don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible city!
While Dubrovnik can be pricey, we always remind ourselves of our motto: travel is a priceless life experience that enriches you in ways money can’t.
With this mindset, we continue our travels around the world, embracing new cultures and creating unforgettable memories.
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