Top 9 Activities to Enjoy in Dubrovnik

Like many travelers, you dream of embarking on a European holiday, but there’s a challenge: how to fit all the sights you wish to see into a single trip. Or is it possible? Dinogo^® has the solution with its array of European cruises. A cruise to Dubrovnik, Croatia, lets you immerse yourself in this unique city and its vibrant history. To help you kick off your vacation planning, here are nine unforgettable activities to experience in Dubrovnik.

1. Discover Old Town and Other Famous Attractions

If you’re pondering what to do in Dubrovnik, keep in mind that it has secured a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage List due to landmarks like its historic Old Town. This pedestrian-friendly area is encircled by ancient stone walls that date back centuries.

It boasts delightful cobblestone pathways and red-tiled roofs, complemented by numerous churches, museums, and town squares.

You can wander along Stradun, a broad avenue that runs through the heart of Old Town, where you'll experience the old-world ambiance alongside shops, galleries, outdoor cafés, and coffee bars.

2. Stroll Along the City Walls

The walls encircling Old Town were constructed in the 13th century and originally provided defense against invaders. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction.

You can traverse the entire perimeter, which typically takes around two hours. Along the route, you’ll encounter historic forts positioned at strategic points, along with towers, gates, and breathtaking views of the city and the sea.

3. Explore the Franciscan Monastery

History enthusiasts searching for things to do in Dubrovnik will always find a visit to the Franciscan Monastery rewarding.

Constructed along the northwest edge of the Dubrovnik wall system in the 14th century, many sections were later reconstructed in the 17th century after a catastrophic earthquake.

While visiting, you can admire the stunning triple arches and intricate columns adorned with carvings of faces and other embellishments. The interior courtyard boasts a serene garden featuring a well-maintained lawn, neatly trimmed hedges, trees, and seasonal flowers. Currently, the monastery functions as both a museum and an active pharmacy.

4. Ride the Cable Car to Srdj Hill

For breathtaking views of Dubrovnik and its surroundings, hop on a cable car to ascend Srdj Hill. During the journey, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas of Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and the beautiful islands scattered along the southern Dalmatian coast.

Once you reach the summit, enjoy a snack and a drink on one of the two viewing terraces. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, consider taking the cable car up and then trekking back down Mount Srdj. In about 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself just outside the city walls.

5. Enjoy a Refreshing Drink at Onofrio’s Fountain

Upon entering Old Town Dubrovnik through the grand Pile Gate, one of the first landmarks you’ll encounter is Onofrio’s Fountain. Constructed in the 15th century, this fountain was designed to supply drinking water to the local population through an aqueduct system, showcasing a domed structure topped with 16 intricately carved heads.

Today, both tourists and locals flock to this spot to relax, socialize, or observe the hustle and bustle, utilizing the fountain as a refreshing water source. You can refill your water bottle, sit on the surrounding steps, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the square. Occasionally, you might even be treated to a live music performance.

6. Visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral

During your panoramic tour of Dubrovnik, make sure to include a stop at the Dubrovnik Cathedral, also known as the Church of the Assumption. Constructed in 1713 on the remnants of two earlier churches, this cathedral is a popular landmark in Old Town. It showcases stunning baroque architecture and remarkable artwork.

Notable features include a violet marble altar, a paneled painting of The Assumption of Mary on the main altar, and a treasury housing intricate gold and silver reliquaries (ornate containers for sacred remains).

These reliquaries are believed to contain the skull, arms, and legs of St. Blaise, who served as a bishop and physician in ancient Armenia.

7. Discover Lokrum Island

When the weather heats up, many locals skip the small beaches near Dubrovnik and instead choose to visit Lokrum Island for a refreshing escape.

Located just about half a mile from the mainland, this charming island features rocky beaches and cliffs, ideal for sunbathing and swimming on a warm day.

Exploring Lokrum Island reveals a serene saltwater lake surrounded by lush forests of oak, ash, pine, and olive trees. You’ll also find a Benedictine monastery along with some shopping and dining options.

During July and August, ferries run every 30 minutes, providing a quick 10-minute journey to Lokrum Island.

8. Shop at Gundulićeva Poljana

In the southeastern part of Old Town, you’ll discover an outdoor market that occupies Gundulićeva Poljana (one of the main squares) during the summer, open six days a week.

Here, you can browse for delightful items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, honey, lavender, herbs, spices, and grappa, a locally produced brandy.

9. Visit the Rector’s Palace

Located at the end of Stradun, the Rector’s Palace (also known as the Dubrovnik Museum) is a historic landmark you won't want to miss.

The palace boasts a stunning atrium and a museum space on the second floor, showcasing treasures such as antique furniture, artworks from the 15th to 19th centuries, a rare collection of clocks, and an assortment of medieval weapons.

When planning your trip, a European cruise is a fantastic choice! For a getaway that combines history, culture, and unique experiences, set sail for Dubrovnik, Croatia. Explore these nine attractions at your leisure, or join one of the many exciting shore excursions for an unforgettable vacation.