Best places to go in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia is a crescent-shaped country that borders central and southeastern Europe, offering an abundance of diverse landscapes and lifestyles. Dubrovnik is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic and it truly is a Balkan treasure. It’s a coastal city in southern Croatia which boasts buzzing culture, rich history, beautiful beaches and picturesque vistas. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most visually breathtaking destinations in the Mediterranean. Here are my recommendations on the best places to go on your first trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia…

Disclosure: The Lokrum Island trip was hosted by the Dubrovnik Tourist Board. All views, opinions and photos are my own and remain a trademark of Roam with Rakhee. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on a link and proceed with booking an activity, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Walls of Dubrovnik

Strolling the length of the old city walls is a must-do when visiting Dubrovnik. Built in the 10th century, the walls are around 2km long and are the perfect way to see this picturesque city from different perspectives.

Lokrum Island

Lokrum is a stunning island located off the coast of Dubrovnik, which is easily reachable by ferry and makes for the perfect day trip. Lokrum Island is home to lush vegetation, rocky beaches, historic landmarks and hundreds of peacocks. A nature reserve with a rich history, it’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Pile Gate

Pile Gate is the magnificent entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This area is filled with centuries-old buildings, cobbled streets, beautiful squares and historic towers and palaces.

When entering Pile Gate through the western side, people are greeted to the famous view of Onofrio’s Fountain.

Stradun

Stradun is Dubrovnik’s main street and is the beating heart of the Old Town, which begins at the Onofrio Fountain. It was constructed in the 12th century and crosses the city from east to west. This is a great place for a stroll, shopping and taking in the city’s vibes.

Luza Square

Luza Square marks the end of the Stradun, located at the opposite end of Pile Gate, and is another popular spot for sightseeing in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Old Port

Dubrovnik Old Port is located in the eastern part of the city. My favourite spot to photograph this scenic area is at the breakwater Porporela, in front of St.John fortress.

Rector’s Palace

The former seat of the Croatian government is at the Rector’s Palace, which was built in the 15th century and is filled with gothic and renaissance design.

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

This cathedral is built within the city walls and it has the most beautiful architectural structure. This is the most iconic and monumental structure in Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

Jesuit Stairs

The Stairs are one of the most popular Games of Thrones locations in Dubrovnik, known for the famous ‘walk of shame’ scene.

Dubrovnik streets

This is the perfect city for street photography, thanks to the city’s narrow cobbled stone streets and alleys, baroque architecture, rich history and picturesque symmetrical structures.

Lapad

Lapad is one of my favourite places in Dubrovnik – it’s the southern trip of the peninsula that lies in the Adriatic Sea. It is away from the tourist centre and has a mix of different things to see and do, including beaches, restaurants, hill walking and strolls along the port.