How Many Days Do You Need in Dubrovnik? (+ Itinerary Ideas!)
How many days do you need in Dubrovnik? Well, this blog post will give you a clear, honest answer to that question!
So whether you’ve already booked your dream trip or you’re still figuring out your Croatia itinerary, this guide will help you decide exactly how long to spend in Dubrovnik – without overplanning or missing out on the good stuff!
I’ve explored Dubrovnik as a solo female traveller, stayed in a few different neighbourhoods, explored the beautiful old town, and spent just the right amount of time (and maybe a day too short once, too).
So I know how easy it is to second-guess yourself: Is one day in Dubrovnik enough? Will I run out of things to do after two days in Dubrovnik? What if I miss something amazing because I don’t have enough time?
This post is here to take the pressure off those questions and help you get it right! I’ll walk you through exactly how many days do you need in Dubrovnik, and what to do with each one, whether you’ve got a quick stop or a few extra days to play with.
Let’s figure out what your perfect Dubrovnik trip looks like, starting with how many days you really need!
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How Many Days in Dubrovnik is Enough?
Let’s start with the big question: how many days do you need in Dubrovnik?
The answer to this very much depends on your travel style, but I’d say most travellers will be happiest with 3 to 4 days in Dubrovnik.
That’s enough time to explore the old town, get out on the water, catch at least one Adriatic sunset, and still have time for a day trip to explore more of Croatia (or even neighbouring Bosnia or Montenegro!)
The city centre may be compact, but there is so much to see and do in Dubrovnik, that one or two days will probably only leave you wishing you had longer.
How to Spend One Day in Dubrovnik
But if you’ve only got one day in Dubrovnik? Don’t worry!
You can still experience the best of Dubrovnik in a single (busy!) day.
You’ll want to start your one day in Dubrovnik early, pace yourself, and be strategic about where you spend your energy (especially if you’re visiting in summer).
So here’s how I’d structure the perfect one day Dubrovnik itinerary:
Morning: Walk the City Walls (8am–12pm)
Start your one day in Dubrovnik as early as you can with the city’s most iconic experience: walking the Dubrovnik Walls!
Gates usually open around 8am (but check exact times on the official website), and trust me – this is the time to complete the walk.
The light is gorgeous at this time of the morning, the cruise ship crowds and day trippers (probably) haven’t arrived yet, and it’s still cool enough to enjoy the views without melting!
The full loop around the walls takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on how often you stop to snap photos or take breaks (and trust me on this, it’s so beautiful you’re going to want to stop often!)
Quick Note: If you want to stop along the walls, for example to visit Lovrijenac Fortress or to enjoy a drink, you’ll need closer to 3 hours. As a result, I’ve dedicated the full morning of your one day in Dubrovnik to the walls, so you can be flexible and take your time without rushing.
The most common starting point for the Dubrovnik Walls is at Pile Gate (although if you want your experience to be even quieter, I’d recommend starting at Ploce Gate), and there’s a clear, one way route to follow, with steps up and down.
There are also a few places to get refreshments along the way, with Cafe Buza being the most popular stop thanks to its breath-taking sea views. (And let’s be real, if you’re starting the walk as early as I recommend, you’re gonna need a coffee or a smoothie to keep you going enroute!)
From the iconic walls, you’ll see everything from Dubrovnik’s famous terracotta rooftops and the quaint old port, to Mount Srd rising behind the city and Lokrum Island in the distance.
The entrance fee is €40 at time of writing (or included with the Dubrovnik Pass).
And despite the (let’s be honest!) crazy cost and the fact that it is seriously touristy, you can’t skip the Dubrovnik Walls walk.
It is iconic for a reason – because the spectacular views alone are well worth the cost!
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring water, suncream, a hat and comfy shoes with good grip. There is no shade on the walls so the heat can get intense (especially in summer), and the polished stone can be slippery, especially going downhill.
Midday: Lunch by the Old Port (12pm-1:30pm)
After your walk, walk through Dubrovnik old town to reach the old port, which is just a few minutes from the eastern exit of the walls.
This area is filled with sunny terraces, stunning sea views, and loads of delicious restaurants to try. And by now I know you’ve worked up an appetite!
A couple of restaurants I would recommend here include:
- Lokanda Peskarija – casual, lots of seafood, right on the harbour.
- Gradska Kavana Arsenal – a bit more formal, more expensive, again lots of seafood, with shaded views over the port.
Early Afternoon: Free Time (1:30pm-4pm)
This mid-afternoon window is the perfect time to slow down and not be rushing around. Especially in summer, the midday heat and crowds get intense, so here are a few options for this time:
Option 1. Cool off at a quiet café
Honestly, this might be the best option if it’s hot and you’re not in the mood to walk anymore. Head to one of Dubrovnik’s shaded cafés or wine bars and just take the time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Just because you only have one day in Dubrovnik, it doesn’t mean you have to spend your whole day rushing from attraction to attraction (unless you want to, of course!)
Option 2. Visit a museum
Dubrovnik’s museums are small, often overlooked, and perfectly manageable to visit in an hour or two. They’re also a great way to learn more about the city!
Some Dubrovnik museum options to consider are:
- The Cultural History Museum (Rectors Palace)
- The Museum of Modern Art
- The Martime Museum
- The Red History Museum
- War Photo Limited
- The Ethnographic Museum
Option 3. Take a walk down to the old port and sit by the sea
Head towards the old port and enjoy a relaxed walk along the waterfront. There are plenty of spots here where you can just sit quietly and relax with a view of Lokrum Island and the boats bobbing in the harbour.
Option 4. Sightsee in the old town
Honestly, Dubrovnik old town will be extremely busy at this time of the afternoon (especially if you’re visiting in peak summer), so old town sightseeing probably won’t be as fun (or quiet!) as your early morning walk on the walls.
But if you want to see as much as possible during your 1 day in Dubrovnik, use these few hours to tick off the highlights of the old town, including some of the best things to do in Dubrovnik:
- Jesuit Stairs + St. Ignatius Church
- Dubrovnik Cathedral
- Rector’s Palace
- Sponza Palace & Luza Square
- St. Blaise Church & the Clock Tower
- Stradun & Onofrio’s Fountain
- Dominican Monastery
Late Afternoon: Join a Walking Tour (4pm-6pm)
Now that you’ve seen Dubrovnik from above and enjoyed a relaxing afternoon, it’s time to go deeper into the old town itself, with a guided walking tour.
It might sound like an overly touristy way to spend your time in Dubrovnik, but I promise it’s well worth it – especially if you only have one day in Dubrovnik!
Because Dubrovnik old town may be relatively small, but don’t let that fool you.
There are so many amazing things to see and do, packed into the confines of its old stone walls. And without the help of a local guide (or the luxury of time to get lost and discover every corner for yourself), it’s so easy to miss the best bits!
Plus, with a local guide you can ask questions and learn more about the fascinating, layered history of Dubrovnik – and, of course, some Game of Thrones insights (if you’re into that!)
Here are some great options for walking tours in Dubrovnik:
1. Group Old Town Walking Tour (budget-friendly & social)
If you’re on a budget or just want to explore as part of a group, a group old town walking tour is a great way to make the most of your one day in Dubrovnik.
On this top-rated, 1.5 hour Dubrovnik walking tour, you’ll follow your local guide around the old town’s top sights and also some hidden gems, while they explain the city’s fascinating history.
2. Private Old Town Walking Tour (customisable & Quieter)
Prefer a little more space or hate the idea of keeping up with a group? In that case, a private Dubrovnik walking tour is definitely worth considering!
This private 1.5 hour Dubrovnik walking tour allows you to tailor the walk around your interests, discover hidden gems with your local guide, and of course learn about Dubrovnik’s fascinating history. Plus, you’ll be able to ask all of the questions your heart desires, without having to share your guide with anyone else!
3. Group Game of Thrones Walking Tour (fun & popular)
Love GoT? Then you probably know that Dubrovnik (aka “King’s Landing”) was used as a major filming location for the series!
(And even if you’re not a superfan, it’s still genuinely cool to see how they transformed the old town for the show).
This 2 hour group GoT walking tour is super popular, more theatrical than a regular walking tour, and includes anecdotes, iconic images and behind the scenes facts from the series.
Plus, you’ll also visit key filming locations like the Walk of Shame stairs (aka the Jesuits Steps) and the Red Keep (aka Lovrijenac Fortress).
4. Private Game of Thrones Tour (for superfans)
If you’re a big GoT superfan (or just want to enjoy the experience without a crowd), this 2 hour, private Game of Thrones walking tour is available, with a passionate local guide.
You’ll cover the same key filming locations as the group tours, but get more insider stories, cool behind the scenes facts about the actors and filming process, and a much more flexible pace. Plus again, you can ask all of the GoT questions your heart desires!
Evening: Sunset Dinner or a Boat Cruise (6:00pm–late)
You may not still be in Dubrovnik by evening, but if you are, you’ve definitely earned your relaxing, golden hour moment!
So now you have a choice: do you want to relax with a drink at a local bar or nightlife spot, or get out on the water for a sunset cruise? Both options are magical! So lets break them down:
Option 1: Head to Buza Bar for drinks with a view
This legendary cliff bar is built into the rocks outside the city walls. It’s very touristy and (in my opinion), a little overpriced, but the view is unreal!
So I truly believe that if you only have one day in Dubrovnik and you’re looking for an iconic experience to finish off your day, Buza bar is it (and its worth the splurge on drinks!)
Option 2: Sunset boat cruise
If you’re not keen on sitting alone in a busy bar, just want something a bit more peaceful, or want to fit even more sightseeing into your one day in Dubrovnik (this time from the water!), book a sunset cocktail boat cruise from the old port of Dubrovnik.
The cruise lasts 1.5 hours and you’ll sail along the coast and around Lokrum island, enjoying panoramic views of the city walls and Dubrovnik old town along the way.
I truly believe the best way to experience Dubrovnik is from the water!
And, of course, throughout the cruise you will also get to enjoy signature cocktails and delicious snacks as the sun sets into the Adriatic.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re a solo traveller and feeling a bit shy about heading to the bar alone, a sunset cruise is a perfect way to enjoy drinks and feel sociable, without the pressure of a table for one!
How to Spend Two Days in Dubrovnik
Now that you’ve ticked off the iconic sights and got to know the city with a guided walking tour, your second day in Dubrovnik is all about slowing down.
This is your chance to return to the places that sparked your curiosity, get deliberately lost in the quaint backstreets of the old town, and enjoy the city at your own pace, without rushing.
Here’s exactly how to spend two days in Dubrovnik:
Morning: Old Town Exploring (9am–12:30pm)
Today, skip the tight schedule and instead start your morning with a relaxed stroll through the old town, deliberately letting yourself get a little lost!
Early morning is when Dubrovnik feels most magical: before the midday rush of day trippers and cruise ship passengers arrive, the light is soft, the alleyways are quiet, locals are out and about, and it’s cool enough to enjoy sightseeing.
As you walk, make your way to some of these key things to do in Dubrovnik:
- Jesuit Stairs + St. Ignatius Church – Insta-famous from Game of Thrones, but also genuinely stunning. Climb the baroque staircase and visit inside the beautiful old church.
- Dubrovnik Cathedral – Either admire Dubrovnik’s grand cathedral from the outside or enter inside to visit the fascinating treasury, full of incredible artwork, jewels and artifacts.
- Rector’s Palace – Rector’s Palace is a beautiful Gothic-Renaissance palace with fascinating exhibits if you want to visit the museum inside. But even if museums aren’t your thing, it’s well worth a photo stop!
- Sponza Palace & Luza Square – Another beautiful palace and old town square in the heart of Dubrovnik, again worth a photo stop.
- St. Blaise Church & the Clock Tower – Incredibly photogenic, this beautiful church and clock tower can be found right in the heart of Luza Square.
- Stradun & Onofrio’s Fountain – The main street (and classic meeting point for tours) so you might’ve visited these top sights yesterday, but it’s still worth going back to in the morning when there are fewer people around!
- Dominican Monastery – A peaceful spot just outside the Ploce Gate with a lovely cloister and small museum.
But while you should definitely use this list to guide your morning walk around Dubrovnik, also allow yourself to get lost and wander where your feet take you.
The prettiest spots (and hidden gems) in Dubrovnik aren’t found in any of these tourist attractions. Instead, they’re found in the quieter backstreets!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you took a walking tour yesterday, retrace the route today. It’s crazy how much more you notice when you’re not in a group and it’s also lovely to revisit your highlights, this time in the early morning without the crowds!
Midday: Lunch (1pm–2:30pm)
I would recommend heading a little off the main street (Stradun), to avoid the crowds and higher prices, so you can enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Here are a few options:
- Barba
- Taj Mahal (Old Town)
- Pizzeria Mirakul
Katie’s Top Tip: Avoid restaurants on Stradun. Instead, go one or two side streets over and you’ll find quieter, friendlier spots with better service.
Afternoon: West Harbour, Kayaking or Culture (3pm–6pm)
Now’s your chance to enjoy a different side of Dubrovnik, whether that’s by the water or in one of the city’s museums! Here are a few options:
Option 1: Kayaking from West Harbour
If you’re feeling adventurous, join a sea kayaking tour from the little cove of West Harbour, just outside Pile Gate (right beneath Fort Lovrijenac).
This 2 hour guided kayaking trip takes you around the iconic city walls (for some seriously insane views), to a cave beach called Betina (where there is time for swimming and snorkelling), before paddling over to Lokrum Island, where your local guide will tell stories and you can enjoy the spectacular views back to Dubrovnik.
It’s safe, active, fun and also a great way to meet other travellers (if that’s your thing!)
Option 2: Dubrovnik’s Museums
If kayaking’s not your thing, still walk down to West Harbour first anyway. It’s a great spot with plenty of places to sit and fantastic views of the sea and Dubrovnik’s majestic walls.
And then for the rest of the afternoon, you might choose to visit a museum you missed yesterday (especially if you’re visiting in summer when the temperatures are hot and the crowds are at their peak during this time).
Top museums in Dubrovnik are:
- The Cultural History Museum (Rectors Palace)
- The Museum of Modern Art
- The Martime Museum
- The Red History Museum
- War Photo Limited
- The Ethnographic Museum
Option 3: Relax at West Harbour
If neither of those options appeal, use this free time to relax at Dubrovnik West Harbour and enjoy some people watching and sunbathing.
It’s the perfect place to sit (or walk around the surrounding, quieter backstreets!)
Evening: Sunset From Mount Srd (4pm-7pm, depending on season)
End your second day in Dubrovnik with a sunset like no other, from the summit of Mount Srd!
Mount Srd is the mountain behind Dubrovnik, and the view from the top is one of the most iconic in all of Croatia. From the top you’ll get a breath-taking view of the old town sprawling beneath your feet, tiny Lokrum Island, and of course the glittering Adriatic sea beyond.
The Dubrovnik Cable Car base station can be found just a short walk from the old town’s Buza Gate. Tickets currently cost €30 return and the cable cars run every 15–30 minutes, depending on the season. The ride to the top takes 3–4 minutes.
At the top of Mount Srd, you’ll find:
- A panoramic viewing terrace (make sure to arrive here with plenty of time before sunset, to get a front row spot!)
- The Homeland War Museum
- The Panorama Restaurant and Bar
- Off-road buggy adventures
- A thrilling zipline experience
Katie’s Top Tip: Be sure to get to the cable car base station at least 45 minutes before sunset to secure a good front row spot on the terrace. The panoramic viewing platform fills up fast and there are often queues for the cable car itself (especially in summer). Plus, once sunset hits, you’ll want an uninterrupted view!
How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
By day three in Dubrovnik, you’ve likely explored every corner of the famous old town, wandered the city walls, and maybe even watched the sunset from Mount Srd.
So today is all about getting out onto the water, slowing down and seeing a different side of the city. Whether you’re in the mood for a low-effort beach day or an island adventure, you’ve got a few brilliant options. Let’s break them down:
Option 1: Full-Day Elaphiti Islands Boat Trip
If you want to completely unplug, let someone else handle the planning, and feel like you’ve seen a part of Croatia that’s a bit off the main tourist track, a full-day boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands is a great option!
Most tours depart between 9–10am from Dubrovnik’s main port (Gruz), and visit three stunning islands: Kolocep, Sipan and Lopud.
- Kolocep is small and green, with a cliffside church and little beach for swimming.
- Sipan is a charming fishing village, with old summer villas and beautiful olive groves.
- Lopud is the main island on the tour, with a popular sandy beach (Sunj), a quaint waterfront, and lush botanical gardens to explore.
This top-rated, full day boat tour to the Elaphiti Islands includes:
- Plenty of free time to explore the highlights of Kolocep, Sipan and Lopud islands (with 3 hours on Lopud island – perfect for a beach morning or slow exploring!)
- Unlimited drinks on board, including wine, water and soft drinks
- A delicious lunch included
- WIFI and music on the boat
- The option to be picked up from your accommodation, so you don’t have to worry about getting to Gruz port on your own by public transport or taxi
Option 2: Relaxing Beach Day
If you’re tired after two days of city sightseeing, a beach day is a great way to recharge!
Dubrovnik has some great beaches, but these are my two favourites:
Banje Beach: The closest beach to Dubrovnik old town, just 10 minutes’ walk from Dubrovnik old port. Banje beach is small but perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with sun loungers for rent in summer and beautiful views of the old town and Lokrum island.
Sveti Jakov Beach: This beach is further out and a bit of a hidden gem. You can reach it by bus route 8 from Pile Gate or by walking 30 minutes from the old town. Just keep in mind that there are ~150 steps down to the beach (that you will also need to walk back up after your day of relaxing!) Sveti Jakov beach is beautiful for sunbathing and swimming (and quieter too), and there are also sun loungers to rent and stunning views.
Option 3: Half-Day Boat Trip to Lokrum Island
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, green escape from the city and spectacular swimming spots, but don’t want to join a full day boat tour to the Elaphiti Islands, nearby Lokrum Island is the perfect middle ground.
It’s just a short boat ride from the old port, but it feels like a whole other world to the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik old town!
On this 4-5 hour boat tour from Dubrovnik old port, you’ll get to admire Dubrovnik’s majestic walls from the water, spend 2 hours of free time swimming, sunbathing or exploring on Lokrum Island, and also enjoy swimming or snorkelling at Plaza Sveti Jakov and Betina Cave. You can also upgrade your trip, and then unlimited drinks are included too!
How to Spend Four Days in Dubrovnik
By day four, you’ve explored the old town, watched the sunset from Mount Srd and got out on the water to explore a more natural and peaceful side to Croatia. So what now?
Well, this is the perfect moment to take a day trip!
Dubrovnik’s location makes it ideal if you want to experience more of the Balkans (without having to repack your suitcase every time!)
From beautiful Montenegro to Bosnia’s historic Mostar to picturesque Croatian islands, you’ve got a few incredible options for day trips, just a few hours away from Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik Day Trip 1: Korcula, Ston & the Peljesac Peninsula
Korcula town is often described as “Dubrovnik’s little sister,” and honestly? It’s my favourite hidden gem in Croatia (and one of the best day trips I’ve ever done solo, anywhere in Europe!)
Korcula old town is compact and oh so charming, surrounded by crystal-clear water, “secret” beaches and relaxed, waterfront restaurants, perfect for enjoying good food with a view!
If you’re into slow travel, island getaways and a day trip that feels like a mini holiday inside your holiday, this is the Dubrovnik day trip for you.
And the route to get to Korcula is also part of the fun!
Most tours (or even if you’re driving yourself), take you via Ston. This tiny town is famous for its salt pans, locally grown oysters and the “Great Wall of Croatia” – the second longest defensive wall in the world after the Great Wall of China!
From Ston, you’ll then drive through the lush, vineyard-covered hills of the Peljesac Peninsula, often stopping for a local wine tasting on the way back.
Here’s how to get to Korcula from Dubrovnik:
By high-speed catamaran: In high season, Kapetan Luka and Jadrolinija operate fast ferries from Dubrovnik’s Gruz Port directly to Korcula town. The journey takes around 2–2.5 hours each way, and you’ll dock just steps from the old town gate. Just make sure to book your tickets online in advance, especially in summer, as they do sell out!
By car: If you’re renting a car, you’ll drive up the scenic Peljesac Peninsula (seriously, this drive is stunning!) to the port town of Orebic, then take the short car ferry across to Korcula. From there it’s a quick 5-minute drive to the old town.
By guided tour: This is the most relaxed and social way to explore this region of Croatia. This full day guided tour from Dubrovnik to Korcula includes free time in Ston, a good few hours of free time in Korcula old town, and even a wine tasting stop in Peljesac on the way back!
By private tour: A private, full day tour to Korcula includes all of the same stops as the group tour, but gives you maximum freedom and a totally stress-free experience. This is the ideal option if you want to customise your day with the help of your own local guide!
You can read more in my full guide to the best things to do in Korcula, but trust me, this beautiful island is very deserving of a full day of your Dubrovnik itinerary!
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re travelling solo, the ferry or a full day guided tour are your best bets to explore the best of this region of Croatia. And if you’re taking the ferry, aim for the earliest one out and a late sailing back, so you can make the most of your day in Korcula!
Dubrovnik Day Trip 2: Montenegro
There’s something so magical about waking up in Croatia and having lunch in an entirely different country, right?!
So if you’re looking for a Dubrovnik day trip that delivers spectacular mountain views, charming, UNESCO listed medieval towns, and a slower pace of exploring, Kotor and Perast in neighbouring Montenegro are a perfect combo!
Kotor is a fortified town nestled at the end of the Bay of Kotor, which is often called Europe’s southernmost fjord (even though it isn’t a fjord at all!) You could climb the steep fortress steps for panoramic views across the bay or just get lost in the stunning alleyways of the old town. Either way, there is loads to do in Kotor during your day trip from Dubrovnik!
Nearby Perast is smaller and sleepier, but famously beautiful and still packed with incredible things to do in one day. Plus, it’s where you’ll find the postcard-perfect island church, Our Lady of the Rocks, which is well worth a visit!
I’ve written a full blog post about how to get from Dubrovnik to Montenegro on a day trip, so if you want the full low-down on how to get there, where to visit and what are the must-see things to do in Montenegro when you get there, it’s well worth a read!
Here are your options for getting to Montenegro from Dubrovnik:
By guided group tour: This is the most stress-free and easiest option. Tours usually leave Dubrovnik around 7am and return between 6–7pm, stopping in both Perast and Kotor (and some include Budva too). Plus your guide will help you through the border, give you local insights and give you plenty of free time to explore too.
This full day guided tour from Dubrovnik to Montenegro includes plenty of free time to explore both Kotor and Perast (with a short guided walking tour in each destination first, to help you get your bearings). Plus, it includes a boat trip!
By private tour: If you’d prefer a slower pace or more flexibility, a private driver-guide is a great option for this Dubrovnik day trip to Montenegro. As part of this full day private tour from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, you’ll get door-to-door service, control over the schedule (and where you want to visit), and personalised recommendations to make the most of your day in Montenegro!
By car: You can also drive from Dubrovnik to Montenegro yourself (it takes about 2–2.5 hours one way). This option does mean you have total flexibility over your schedule, but it also means you’ll need to drive yourself and navigate the border crossing alone – so make sure you’re a confident driver.
By bus: There are also regular buses from Dubrovnik to Kotor, but they’re less reliable for a same-day round trip so I wouldn’t recommend this option for a day trip.
Dubrovnik Day Trip 3: Bosnia & Herzegovina
If you’re curious about the history of the Balkans or want to experience a totally different side of the region, Mostar is a beautiful day trip from Dubrovnik.
Mostar’s star attraction is the iconic Stari Most (old bridge), which was destroyed during the war in the 90s and carefully rebuilt as a symbol of resilience.
But there’s so much more to Mostar than just the famous bridge: colourful houses, a busy bazaar, striking mosques and real, raw reminders of recent history.
A lot of guided tours to Bosnia also include stops at Pocitelj, a postcard-worthy hillside village, or Kravica Waterfalls.
Here’s how to get to Bosnia from Dubrovnik:
By guided group tour: This is the best way to see Mostar. Guided tours to Bosnia, like this top rated small group one, are a long full day. But throughout the tour you’ll get to enjoy a mix of guided walking and free time, so it’s not too full on. You’ll also visit Kravika Waterfall enroute too, which is stunning! Plus, your guide will help you through the border crossing.
By private tour: If you’re a history lover or just want more flexibility, a private tour like this one is a great choice. You can spend longer in Mostar, skip the extra stops if you want, and ask all the questions you want to ask of your dedicated local guide! It’s more expensive, but totally worth it if this region and its history really interests you.
By car: Driving to Mostar is also doable, but I wouldn’t recommend this option for a day trip unless you’re confident with driving in a foreign country and navigating the border crossing alone. The drive takes around 2.5 hours.
What If I Have Longer in Dubrovnik? (5+ Days)
Lucky you! More days in Dubrovnik means more flexibility, whether that’s for exploring beyond the city or just slowing your trip right down.
Here are some great ways to make the most of 5+ days:
- Take more day trips (visit Montenegro, Bosnia, or Korcula, depending on what you missed on day four of your Dubrovnik itinerary!)
- Enjoy a full, relaxing beach day on Banje Beach or Sveti Jakov Beach
- Channel your inner foodie with a food walking tour
- Enjoy a unique, crafty day by joining a local paint and wine class
Dubrovnik FAQs
Is One Day Enough in Dubrovnik?
Honestly? No, not really. But it is doable.
And if one day is all you’ve got, you can still see a surprising amount with a smart plan (like the one day in Dubrovnik itinerary in this guide!)
Walk the city walls early, explore the highlights of the old town and, if you can, choose one stop for sunset (for example Mount Srd, Buza Bar or a sunset cocktail cruise around Lokrum island).
Oh, and while it’s very tempting, don’t overpack your itinerary. Less really is more in Dubrovnik, even if you just have one day to explore!
Is Two Days Enough in Dubrovnik?
For a lot of travellers, yes, two days in Dubrovnik can be enough.
With two full days, you can comfortably explore the entire old town, take a walking tour, enjoy the sunset from Mount Srd, and maybe even add in a bit of beach time or a boat trip (although I’m gonna be honest, this is easier if you have three days in Dubrovnik).
Just make sure you use your early mornings and late evenings wisely, to beat the cruise ship crowds, day trippers and the peak of the midday/early afternoon heat.
Is Three Days Enough in Dubrovnik?
Yes! And, in my experience, it’s actually the sweet spot.
Three days in Dubrovnik gives you the best of everything: a full day of old town and walls sightseeing, a more relaxed second day to revisit favourite spots and explore the side streets and museums, and a third day for a beach afternoon, a local island escape to Lokrum, or a full day boat trip to the nearby Elaphiti islands!
Plus, with 3 days in Dubrovnik, you can keep your third day flexible depending on your mood and energy levels.
- Want to swim? Head to one of the beautiful beaches.
- Prefer history? Explore more of Dubrovnik’s museums.
- Craving quiet relaxation? Lokrum island is a dream!
Is Four Days Enough in Dubrovnik?
4 days in Dubrovnik is more than enough, which makes it the perfect length of time for slower travel!
With four days in Dubrovnik, you can walk the famous city walls, see all of the old town highlights and hidden gems, enjoy some time at the beach, get out on the water around Dubrovnik, and do a day trip to neighbouring regions of Croatia or even visit nearby countries like Montenegro and Bosnia!
How to Get to Dubrovnik
Fly: Most travellers arrive via Dubrovnik Airport, which has direct flights from all over Europe in high season.
Bus: You can take a scenic long-distance bus from Split or even Kotor, Montenegro. The bus routes take you along the coastline and have incredible sea views!
Ferry: In summer, ferries run from Bari, Italy to Dubrovnik, which is a fun, quirky option if you’re combining Italy and Croatia.
How to Get Around Dubrovnik
I’m gonna be honest, you’ll walk a lot on this trip. Dubrovnik’s old town is compact, car-free and famously steep in parts (seriously, those polished limestone steps are no joke!)
But getting around outside the famous old town walls is easy too:
- Public buses are affordable and run regularly to Lapad, Gruz Port and the suburbs
- Taxis are generally reliable and efficient (although you might face some issues with lateness or cancellations in peak season, when Dubrovnik is overwhelmed with tourists)
- Boats and ferries are the go-to for island trips and depart from Gruz port
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Choosing the right base makes a huge difference when travelling to Dubrovnik. So here’s a breakdown of the best areas for different travel styes/vibes:
Dubrovnik old town: Perfect if you want to be in the heart of it all, with history, restaurants and all of the top sights on your doorstep! It’s the most atmospheric location, but also the busiest and priciest.
Ploce: Ideal for incredible sea views, proximity to Banje Beach and quieter stays. Plus, you’re still within easy walking distance to old town but the vibe is way more peaceful.
Lapad: A great option if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly and local.
So, How Many Days Do You Need in Dubrovnik?
There’s no one answer to how many days you need in Dubrovnik, but hopefully by now you’ve got a much better idea of how many days in Dubrovnik works for your unique travel style (and what you want to see/do in Dubrovnik during your trip!)
But regardless of whether you’ve only got 24 hours or a whole week, Dubrovnik is a city that has so many magical things to see and do (both within its famous walls and outside of them), from history and spectacular sea views, to slow mornings and easy day trips to other Balkan countries.
And what matters just as much as how many days you spend in Dubrovnik is how you spend them. So hopefully, this blog post has helped you figure out what makes sense for you and made the planning part feel a little less overwhelming!
I’m curious: how long are you planning to stay in Dubrovnik? Or if you’ve been before, how many days felt just right for you? Let me know in the comments!
Read More About Travel in Croatia:
- How Many Days Do You Need in Dubrovnik? (+ Itinerary Ideas!)
- Is Dubrovnik Safe For Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
- 11 Fun Things To Do in Dubrovnik Alone (For First-Timers)
- 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Korcula, Croatia
- Is Croatia Safe for Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
