Dubrovnik, Croatia cruises
The pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik provides the perfect mix of culture-rich experiences, delicious dining, and breathtaking scenery. Not forgetting the opportunity to explore the iconic Old City Walls, which were heavily featured in HBO’s multi-award-winning fantasy series, Game of Thrones.
Drift into a land of Baroque charm, making memories that will stay with you long after you depart.
Dubrovnik port guide.
With Italy to the west and Montenegro to the east, the historic town of Dubrovnik lies close to Croatia’s southern tip.
Looking out onto the warm blue of the Adriatic Sea, you’ll be taken aback by the overwhelming beauty of the ancient architecture as you first glance at the famous Old City Walls. But this attraction is just one of many in this unique European capital.
Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about exploring this beautiful and intriguing port city.
Top landmarks and sights in Dubrovnik.
It wouldn’t be a cruise to Dubrovnik without experiencing the wonders of the Old City fortifications, rising gracefully out of the sea.
Retrace the steps of those who’ve walked the walls steeped in history, dating all the way back to the 9th century. There are three entrances to the city walls, the Pile Gate, Fort St John’s, and the Custom’s House Gate.
Views from the walls are spectacular, and a real treat for any Game of Thrones enthusiasts looking to step into an iconic part of television history.
At each of its four corners stand four magnificent fortresses: Minceta Tower, Revelin Fortress, St John’s Fortress, and Bokar Bastion. The views from each of the fortresses are reason enough to pay them a visit, or you can take a walking tour around them all, to learn more about their fascinating history.
The towering Gothic Franciscan Church and Monastery are among the oldest buildings in Dubrovnik town. Built in 1225, the monastery is now home to the oldest pharmacy in Europe, as well as a museum library. Climb the steps of the old bell tower to take in the incredible views over the city harbour and the vast Adriatic.
Other sights include The Rector’s Palace and Cultural History Museum, Onofrio’s Great Fountain, Sponza Palace, and the Pile Gate.
Things to do in Dubrovnik.
The limestone pavement that runs through the centre of the Old Town, known as Stradun, plays host to a selection of events and festivals throughout the year. Here you’ll also find Onofrio’s Fountain, which brought fresh spring water to the town as part of a water supply system built in the 15th century. An ideal spot to stop, rest, and watch the world go by.
Stradun is also lined with a multitude of shopping and dining experiences, with a wealth of local cuisine to sample and trinkets and souvenirs to serve as a memento of your visit.
If you’re looking for a break from the bustle of the town centre, one option is to take the nearby cable car to the top of Srđ Hill. At 412 metres tall, the peak of this low mountain provides you with some of the most expansive, panoramic views across both the town and the southern Dalmatian coast.
At the top, you’ll find the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence, a fairly new addition, housed in the historic Fort Imperial.
Local ferries depart regularly from Dubrovnik Old Town Port, transporting tourists to Lokrum – a quiet, unpopulated island that makes an ideal spot for a lazy afternoon spent lounging on the beach. Fowl enthusiasts are in for an additional treat, as the island is home to an extensive population of majestic peacocks.
Dubrovnik culture and history.
Dubrovnik is alive with ancient wonder, proudly displaying its rich and varied history, just waiting to be discovered.
The Old Town was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, and in recent years has attracted culture seekers from around the globe to sample its delights.
First established in the 7th century as “Ragusa”, the town’s heavy fortifications became a beacon of refuge from invaders.
Becoming part of the Byzantine empire in the 12th century, the town underwent several occupations in the coming years, including that of the Venetians, whose influence can still be found in the town today.
Nowadays, Dubrovnik is a hub of cultural significance, home to a multitude of festivals, prestigious art events, and architectural treasures.
Eating and drinking near Dubrovnik cruise port.
After a busy day of exploring the city streets, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to culinary experiences in Dubrovnik.
The more traditional fare in Dubrovnik could be described as simple, rustic yet timeless, and mouth-wateringly delicious. Find a superb blend of this cuisine and contemporary dishes, on menus across the city.
Fresh fish pulled daily from the Adriatic is a popular choice amongst locals and visitors alike, simply brushed with olive oil and lemon juice and gently grilled. Fish is often served with a side of hearty vegetables or Blitva – a dish featuring chunks of boiled, then pan-fried potatoes, Swiss chard, and sliced garlic. Some of the world’s best oysters are pulled from the sea just up the coast from Dubrovnik, in the Bay of Mali Ston, and are served in abundance throughout the town.
For meat lovers there are plenty of choices on offer. One of these is Pašticada, a comforting dish made of slowly braised beef, combined with vegetables and spices to create a rich, savoury sauce, served with homemade pasta or gnocchi.
Cheese lovers may want to sample Paški Sir, an award-winning yellow cheese made of sheep’s milk, perfectly paired with a cool glass of wine and pršut, a traditional Croatian smoked ham.
Wander through The Old Town Market, open Monday to Saturday from 7am to 5pm, and take in the abundant smells and visual delights of fresh fruits, vegetables, sweets, and baked goods.
Shopping in Dubrovnik.
For the most varied and vibrant shopping experiences in the town, take a stroll along Stradun. You’ll find everything from quaint trinket shops laden with local, handmade souvenirs, to designer clothing stores and independent boutiques.
The Gruž Market is the most popular open-air market in Dubrovnik and sits close to the main port. Here you’ll find the finest fruits, vegetables, and seafood brought over daily from the Elafiti Islands. If you’re looking to get a taste of a quieter, more traditional market than that of the Old Town market, Gruž Market offers a more authentic glimpse into the Croatian way of life.
Getting around, Dubrovnik transport.
The Port of Gruž is around a 25–30 minute bus ride from the centre of Dubrovnik. Local shuttle buses run frequently between the two points, and are widely considered to be one of the most convenient ways to get around. Taxis are also easily accessible at the port entrance.
Tickets for local buses can be purchased from newspaper kiosks and Libertas stalls (Libertas is the public transport provider). Alternatively, some travel shops and hotels may be able to supply tickets, or you can simply purchase one from the bus driver when you board.
Dubrovnik port facilities.
The Port of Gruž sits just under 2 miles away from the Old Town of Dubrovnik. The vast majority of cruise ships dock at the port, but some may dock in front of the Old Town Port from which visitors are ferried by tender, to shore.
Within the Port of Gruž, you can find a visitor information centre where you can pick up a map of the town and a selection of brochures and leaflets. There is also a bag drop office where you can safely store luggage for a few hours, a car rental service, and a travel agency, as well as a foreign exchange office and ATM machines.
Dubrovnik quick tips.
Currency.
The official currency of Croatia is the Kuna (HRK). You’ll find plenty of ATMs available at the port and in the Old Town, and it’s advisable to keep a little cash on you while you shop or dine, particularly at smaller, independent establishments.
Tipping isn’t expected or required in Dubrovnik, but you can choose to tip up to 10% for excellent service, or round up your bill to the nearest Kuna.
Weather.
The best time to visit Dubrovnik is during September and October when temperatures aren’t too high, but the sea remains warm and welcoming. Average temperatures at this time of year reach about 26°C, and with only 4 or 5 days of rain throughout the month, it’s the perfect time to explore without having to worry about packing for wet weather.
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