Things to Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik had been on our bucket list long before Game of Thrones ever hit the screen. But once we saw those breathtaking scenes of King’s Landing, it shot straight to the top. We kept saying, “One day,” and finally, that day came; we booked the flight, packed our bags, and set off to explore the “Pearl of the Adriatic” for ourselves.

What surprised us most is how much more there is to Dubrovnik than its famous city walls and film sets. This UNESCO World Heritage city dates back to the 7th century, was once a powerful maritime republic, and even built one of the world’s first quarantine stations in the 1300s. Its old town streets are paved with polished limestone, its sunsets glow over the Adriatic, and every corner hides a story.

Read on to learn what makes Dubrovnik so unforgettable and the essential things to know before visiting this stunning Croatian gem.

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Things to Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik

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The Pearl of the Adriatic

Dubrovnik is often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and once you see it, you’ll understand why. The city glimmers along Croatia’s southern coast, where the deep blue Adriatic Sea meets sunlit stone walls and terracotta rooftops. It’s old town, surrounded by imposing medieval walls, looks almost like a jewel resting on the water. The name reflects not just its beauty, but also its long history as a maritime and cultural treasure of the Mediterranean.

Originally known as Ragusa, Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century by refugees from the Roman city of Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat). Over the centuries, it grew into a wealthy, independent republic that thrived on trade and diplomacy. Today, its gleaming streets, sea views, and cinematic charm truly live up to its nickname, a pearl polished by time and history.

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A City of Endless Stairs

Why does nobody talk about all the stairs in Dubrovnik? Not that we’re complaining, but a little warning would’ve been nice; our legs were sore for a week! Apparently, there are over 5,000 steps in Dubrovnik’s old town, and in some alleys, you can’t even see the top from below. If, like us, you stay in one of the charming apartments just outside the city walls, be prepared for a daily climb. We rented an Airbnb on the hillside and had to waddle up more than 356 steps every evening to get back home. It’s a workout, but the views (and gelato rewards) make every step worth it. So be ready for the stairs, cause we weren’t.

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Fresh Drinking Water Is Never a Problem in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik takes great pride in its long history of providing fresh drinking water to everyone, a tradition that dates back centuries. Remarkably, it was one of the first cities in Europe to install public fountains, ensuring that clean water was available not only to the wealthy but to all citizens.

Today, these historic fountains are still scattered throughout the old town, beautifully carved and constantly flowing. You can easily refill your bottle anywhere, whether near Onofrio’s Fountain at Pile Gate or tucked away in a quiet square. The water is perfectly safe to drink; cold, refreshing, and delicious, especially after climbing those famous Dubrovnik stairs.

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Don’t Leave Without Tasting Dubrovnik’s Seafood

Seafood is one of the absolute highlights of visiting Dubrovnik. The old town is filled with restaurants, and nearly all of them serve freshly caught dishes that you simply have to try while you’re here. One morning, as we waddled through the quiet streets, we watched fishermen delivering their fresh catch straight to local restaurants, a reminder that what ends up on your plate was likely swimming in the Adriatic just hours earlier. Oysters, in particular, are a local favorite and a must-try delicacy.

Dubrovnik Was an Independent Republic

For more than 450 years, Dubrovnik, known in the past as Ragusa, stood proudly as a free maritime republic. From the 14th to the 19th century, it managed to remain independent from both the powerful Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire, a remarkable feat considering the politics of the time.

Instead of relying on military strength, Dubrovnik built its success on trade, diplomacy, and seafaring expertise. Its merchants sailed across the Mediterranean and beyond, establishing trade routes that connected the East and West. The city’s skilled diplomats were famous for their ability to maintain peace through negotiation rather than conflict.

Thanks to this clever strategy, Ragusa grew into one of the wealthiest and most influential trading hubs on the Adriatic, known for its prosperity, culture, and tolerance. Even today, you can sense that proud spirit of independence in the city’s motto, “Liberty is not sold for all the gold in the world.” You can still see it inscribed on Lovrijenac Fortress, overlooking the sea.

Things to Know Before Visiting Croatia

The World’s Oldest Quarantine Station

In 1377, Dubrovnik (then Ragusa) became a pioneer in public health by introducing the world’s first official quarantine system. As a bustling trading port, the city faced constant risk of disease brought by merchants and sailors. To protect its citizens, Dubrovnik required anyone arriving from infected areas to spend 40 days in isolation before entering the city, giving birth to the word “quarantine.”

A special complex called the Lazareti, built just outside the eastern walls near Ploče Gate, housed those in isolation. This forward-thinking measure helped save lives and later inspired similar systems across Europe. Today, the restored Lazareti serves as a cultural center, preserving Dubrovnik’s legacy as a city of both beauty and innovation.

The City Walls Have Never Been Breached

The mighty 2-kilometer-long walls that encircle Dubrovnik’s old town are among the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe, and perhaps its most iconic landmark. Built between the 12th and 17th centuries, these massive stone defenses were designed to protect the city from invaders arriving by land or sea.

Rising up to 25 meters high and reinforced with fortresses, towers, and bastions, the walls form an unbroken shield around the city. And here’s the most impressive part: they have never been breached. Despite wars, sieges, and natural disasters, Dubrovnik’s walls stood strong for centuries, symbolizing the city’s resilience and independence.

Today, walking along the ramparts offers not just stunning views of the Adriatic and red rooftops below but also a deep connection to Dubrovnik’s proud and unshakable spirit.

The Streets Are Made of Limestone

One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter Dubrovnik’s old town is how the streets seem to shine. That’s because they’re paved with limestone, worn smooth and glossy by centuries of footsteps, rain, and sea air. It’s not just beautiful, it’s part of what gives Dubrovnik its unmistakable charm.

When the sun hits the stone in the late afternoon, the entire old town glows with a golden sheen, making every photo look like a postcard. Locals say the streets have been “polished by history,” and it truly feels that way. Just be careful when it rains, those same smooth stones can get a bit slippery, so good shoes are essential for your waddle through the city.

Other Interesting Facts About Dubrovnik

• • • Dubrovnik Was a Pioneer in Diplomacy. The Republic of Ragusa established one of the first consulates in the world and maintained peaceful relations with empires through trade and negotiation rather than force, a rare thing for its time.
    • Dubrovnik Was One of the First Cities to Ban Slavery. In 1416, long before most of Europe, Dubrovnik officially abolished slavery, showcasing its progressive mindset and humanitarian approach to trade and society.
    • Game of Thrones Made It Even More Famous. Dubrovnik became the real-life King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, with iconic scenes filmed at Fort Lovrijenac, Pile Gate, and the Jesuit Staircase. This boosted tourism massively: some locals joke it was the “second golden age” of Dubrovnik.
    • You Can Visit the Island of Lokrum in Just 15 Minutes. Just across the water, Lokrum Island is a lush, green escape full of peacocks, botanical gardens, and cliff swimming spots. Locals love it for a quiet break from the crowds.
    • Dubrovnik’s Sea Is Crystal Clear. The Adriatic Sea around Dubrovnik is known for its unusually clear turquoise water, thanks to the lack of rivers or industrial pollution nearby. Even from the city walls, you can see straight to the sea floor.
    • It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dubrovnik’s entire old town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 for its remarkable architecture, history, and preservation efforts.
    • Dubrovnik Was Damaged During the 1990s War. In 1991–1992, during the Croatian War of Independence, Dubrovnik was bombed, and parts of the old town were damaged. Today, it has been beautifully restored, but you can still spot newer roof tiles that replaced those destroyed in the attacks.
    • Dubrovnik Has a Cable Car with a View. The Dubrovnik Cable Car takes you up Mount Srđ in just four minutes for a panoramic view of the old town and surrounding islands, perfect for sunrise or sunset photos.

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Essential Facts About Dubrovnik for First-Time Visitors

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Expect Crowds in Dubrovnik’s Old Town

Dubrovnik’s beauty comes with a price: crowds. The city welcomes over 50,000 tourists each year, and during its Game of Thrones fame, those numbers were even higher. At one point, the crowds became so overwhelming that authorities had to limit the number of daily visitors entering the old town.

The best time to visit is before the end of May or after mid-September, when the weather is still warm but the streets are quieter. Try to avoid June to August if you can; that’s when the cruise ships and summer holidaymakers arrive. If you do visit in summer, don’t worry, you can still enjoy Dubrovnik’s charm. Just wake up early, explore before the crowds roll in, and you’ll get to experience the city’s magic in peace.

The Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik

The best time to visit Dubrovnik depends on what kind of experience you’re after. April and May bring pleasant weather, blooming scenery, and far fewer tourists, perfect for sightseeing and photography. June to August marks the peak summer season, ideal for swimming and beach days, but it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit. If you prefer warm seas with fewer people, plan your trip for September or October, when the weather is still beautiful, but the cruise ships and crowds start to fade. During winter, Dubrovnik becomes peaceful and budget-friendly, though some restaurants and attractions may close for the off-season.

What to see in Dubrovnik 🐧

It Can Get Expensive

Depending on your budget and where you’re traveling from, Dubrovnik can feel quite pricey. Prices rise noticeably between June and September, when the city hits peak tourist season. During this time, accommodation and dining costs are at their highest.

Outside the summer rush, things are more reasonable — a nice dinner or lunch for two with wine will set you back around €100. Still, it’s worth noting that you can easily find more affordable local spots and casual eateries where the food is just as delicious, especially if you wander a bit away from the main tourist streets.

Currency and Payments

Since 2023, Croatia has officially adopted the Euro (€) as its national currency, replacing the Croatian kuna. This makes things much easier for travelers coming from other parts of Europe, no more currency exchange worries. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially within Dubrovnik’s old town.

However, it’s still smart to carry a bit of cash, as smaller cafés, market stalls, and local bakeries sometimes prefer it or have minimum card amounts. You’ll find ATMs all around the city, but try to use those attached to banks to avoid high withdrawal fees from private machines. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is more than enough.

Respect the Locals

Dubrovnik is a small city with a big heart, and its residents work hard to keep it that way. In recent years, locals have voiced concerns about over-tourism, especially during the busy summer months when cruise ships bring thousands of visitors at once. To help preserve the city’s charm, try to travel responsibly: avoid loud behavior, skip the midday cruise crowds, and support locally owned restaurants, cafés, and shops instead of big chains.

Simple gestures, like being polite, not blocking narrow alleys for photos, and respecting quiet hours, go a long way. The people of Dubrovnik are proud of their home, and when visitors treat it with care, everyone enjoys a more authentic experience.

Walk the City Walls Early (or Late)

The city walls are Dubrovnik’s biggest attraction, but they get very crowded and hot by midday. Walk them right after opening (8 AM) or before closing for cooler temperatures and softer light.

Bring Sunscreen and Water

It sounds obvious, but Dubrovnik’s stone streets reflect the sunlight, making it even hotter. Remind readers that hydration and sunscreen are essential, especially for those city-wall walks.

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Dubrovnik is one of those rare places that truly feels magical, a city where history, sea, and sunlight blend into something unforgettable. From walking its ancient limestone streets to watching the sunset from the city walls, every moment feels like stepping into a storybook. Whether you come for the culture, the views, or simply to soak in its timeless charm, Dubrovnik will leave a mark on your heart long after you’ve left.

So pack your bags, bring your curiosity (and maybe good waddling shoes), and waddle your way through the enchanting streets of Dubrovnik.

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