A Dream Weekend in Dubrovnik? Here’s all tips No One Tells You

Nestled on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a place where time seems to stand still. With its ancient city walls, dramatic coastline, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder this Croatian gem is often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Whether you’re looking for romance, relaxation, or adventure, Dubrovnik offers an unforgettable weekend escape that blends history, cuisine, and breathtaking views.

🌍 Why Choose Dubrovnik for a Weekend Getaway?

Dubrovnik combines the feel of a fairy tale city with the laid-back charm of a coastal resort. It’s compact enough to explore in two to three days, but rich in experiences—from walking centuries-old fortifications to swimming in secluded coves.

If you’re short on time but craving depth, Dubrovnik delivers.

🛏️ Where to Stay: Best Areas in Dubrovnik

Choosing the right neighborhood can shape your entire trip. Here’s a breakdown:

Old Town (Stari Grad)

Best for: First-time visitors, history lovers, romantic stays.
Pros: Walking distance to all main attractions, unbeatable atmosphere.
Cons: More expensive, limited vehicle access.
Tip: Book a boutique hotel or a historic guesthouse inside the walls for a magical experience.

Ploče

Best for: Luxury and sea views.
Pros: Close to Old Town but quieter, home to some of the best high-end hotels and beach clubs.
Cons: Steep streets.
Tip: Perfect if you want views of the walls and quick access to Banje Beach.

Lapad

Best for: Families, beach lovers, budget-conscious travelers.
Pros: Promenade with cafes, access to beaches, more relaxed vibe.
Cons: 10–15 minutes by bus/taxi to Old Town.
Tip: A great area if you want a mix of swimming and sightseeing.

🔑 10 Secret Tips from Dubrovnik Locals

🕳️ 1. Buža Bar isn’t the only “secret” bar on the cliffs

Locals’ tip: Skip the crowds at Buza I and head to Buza II (follow signs that say “cold drinks with the most beautiful view”). It’s less known, has the same cliffside access, and a more relaxed vibe.
Bonus: Locals often come here to cliff jump at sunset. Ask someone to point out the safe spots.

🏖️ 2. Find the “hidden” beach under Hotel Belvedere

Why it’s special: This abandoned hotel (bombed in the war) has a surreal, apocalyptic charm. Below it lies a quiet, rocky beach with crystal-clear water and zero tourists.
How to get there: 20-min walk from Ploče Gate. Ask for directions to “Belvedere ruins” or use Maps.me—it’s not marked on Google Maps.
Local secret: Go in the morning for the clearest water and privacy.

🍽️ 3. **Eat at family-run Konoba Dubrava on Mount Srđ**

Why locals love it: It’s outside tourist zones, with authentic dishes cooked over open fire, especially peka (roasted meat or octopus).
Tip: Call ahead and order peka at least 4 hours in advance—it takes time but is worth every bite.
Bonus: They offer free shuttle rides to/from the city center if you reserve a table.

🍇 4. Try home-made wine & rakija from market stalls

At the Gruž farmers’ market, many stalls offer unlabeled bottles of homemade wine, olive oil, and rakija (fruit brandy).
Secret: Locals say the fig or carob rakija is best. Ask the vendor for a tasting—it’s often free and leads to great stories.

📷 5. The best sunset isn’t from Srđ—it’s from Park Orsula

While Mount Srđ is famous, locals prefer the peaceful, natural beauty of Park Orsula, a viewpoint between Old Town and the airport.
Why it’s a gem: Panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the islands, without cable car crowds.
Pro tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy live music during summer evenings—it’s a secret local tradition.

🎭 6. Watch live drama at Lovrijenac Fortress during summer

Dubrovnik Summer Festival performances inside Fort Lovrijenac are legendary but often overlooked by tourists.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance and bring a cushion. Watching Shakespeare with waves crashing below is goosebump-worthy.

🎨 7. Explore the art scene in forgotten alleyways

Locals love Art Radionica Lazareti, a cultural space in a medieval quarantine complex near Ploče Gate.
Secret: Small concerts, art shows, and workshops happen here with very few tourists around.
You’ll also find street art and mini galleries hidden in side alleys off Stradun—peek inside open doors!

🍦 8. Skip the big gelato chains—go to Peppino’s

Locals swear by Peppino’s Artisanal Gelato near the cathedral. Flavors like pistachio, lavender-honey, or rosewater will blow your mind.
Insider tip: Ask if they have any “off-menu” or experimental flavors. The staff sometimes offer samples of flavors still in development.

🚶‍♂️ 9. **Walk the city walls in reverse for fewer crowds**

Most tourists walk the walls clockwise, starting from Pile Gate.
Local tip: Start from Ploče Gate and go counterclockwise. It’s shadier in the morning, and you’ll enjoy long stretches alone while everyone else is still at the start.

🧘 10. Early morning swim at Porporela Pier

Where locals start their day: The small pier near the Old Port is a favorite for a quiet dip before the city wakes.
Secret: At sunrise, it’s just you, the sea, and the sound of waves hitting the stone. Some locals do yoga here too—feel free to join in.

🍽️ Local Food You Must Try

Croatian cuisine is a Mediterranean-meets-Balkan delight. Here are dishes to look for:

🐟 Black Risotto (Crni Rižot): Cuttlefish ink gives this dish its rich color and umami flavor.
🐙 Octopus Salad (Hobotnica Salata): Light and refreshing, perfect on a warm day.
🥩 Pasticada: A slow-cooked beef dish with prunes and red wine, served with gnocchi.
🥧 Rozata: A creamy local custard dessert, similar to flan.
🍞 Peka: Lamb or octopus slow-roasted under an iron bell (available with advance order).
🍷 Plavac Mali wine: A robust red from the Dalmatian coast.

📸 Don’t Miss Instagrammable Spots!

The top of Mount Srđ
City walls at golden hour
Jesuit Staircase (featured in Game of Thrones)
Lokrum Island’s monastery ruins
The narrow alleys of Old Town lit at night

🧳 Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip

Currency: Croatian Kuna (HRK), but Euros are now accepted in many places.
Language: Croatian. English widely spoken.
Getting around: Old Town is pedestrian-only; taxis, buses, and walking suffice elsewhere.
Best time to visit: Late May to early October. September is ideal—fewer crowds, perfect weather.
What to pack: Swimwear, walking shoes, sunblock, a reusable water bottle, and layers for cooler evenings.

🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend Plan

Day 1: Arrival + Old Town Wonders

Morning: Arrive and check-in. If staying outside Old Town, take a taxi or shuttle to Pile Gate.
Afternoon: Walk the city walls (give it 1.5–2 hours). You’ll get sweeping views of the rooftops and coastline.
Must-visit sights:
- Stradun (main street)
- Rector’s Palace
- Sponza Palace
- Church of St. Blaise
Evening: Watch the sunset from Buza Bar, a cliffside bar accessed through a hole in the city wall. Then enjoy dinner at Proto or Dubravka 1836 for sea views and Croatian seafood.

Day 2: Islands, Culture & Local Flavors

Morning: Take a boat to Lokrum Island (10 mins). Explore its botanical gardens, swim in the salt lake, and visit the monastery. Game of Thrones fans: this is where the Iron Throne photo op is!
Afternoon: Return and visit Fort Lovrijenac for dramatic cliffside views.
Optional: Try a kayak tour around the city walls or to nearby caves.
Evening: Head to Pantarul in Lapad for a modern Croatian dinner. Or try Taj Mahal (yes, it’s Bosnian cuisine) in Old Town for something different and incredibly flavorful.

Day 3: Cable Cars & Departure

Morning: Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srđ. The view over the city, sea, and islands is unforgettable.
Explore: Visit the Homeland War Museum at the top or hike down for a final scenic adventure.
Late morning: Grab brunch at Gradska Kavana Arsenal near the harbor.
Before departure: Stop by Gruž Market for fresh fruit, lavender products, olive oils, and handmade souvenirs.