Planning the best 1 day in Dubrovnik is all about knowing where to go and what to see in the most efficient way. After spending a lot of time exploring this incredible city, I’ve put together my favorite spots to help you see the best places in just a day. I’ll also share the best things to do, step by step.
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What to Expect When Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town
The heart of the city is Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by medieval walls and the gorgeous Adriatic Sea. I absolutely loved walking through the narrow stone streets, passing lively squares and buildings that have stood there for centuries. There are cozy cafés, little shops, and quiet corners everywhere. It really felt like stepping back in time.
You will pass by so many stunning viewpoints and even some Game of Thrones filming locations while exploring the city. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan and have a little extra time in Dubrovnik beyond this one day itinerary, you can join a Game of Thrones tour. It’s a fun way to dive into the show’s filming spots and hear behind-the-scenes stories.
A regular walking tour is also a great option for learning more about the city’s history and hidden corners.
You may be only stopping by Dubrovnik for a day trip before heading to another destination or arriving on a cruise ship. This guide will help you see the top attractions without feeling rushed.
Ready for the perfect day trip? Here’s how to spend 1 day in Dubrovnik and make the most of your visit.
Looking for quick Hotel suggestions? Here are the top picks:
- Affordable Stay: SUNce Palace with free parking
- Ideal for Location: Dominus Rooms
- Best Luxury Hotel: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
- Top View: Hotel Excelsior
- Great for Families: Rixos Premium Belek
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Unique Experiences in Dubrovnik
Where to stay in Dubrovnik?
Best 1 day in Dubrovnik: The Perfect Itinerary
To make the most of your 1 day in Dubrovnik and have the best experience, you really have to start early! The best way to enjoy the city is to focus on a few main attractions in Dubrovnik’s Old Town first.
During the summer months, mornings are ideal—you can see the main sites before it gets too hot and crowded.
After a few hours of sightseeing, head to the beaches in the surrounding areas for fantastic views and great photo spots.
This balance lets you see the highlights without feeling rushed and enjoy everything that makes Dubrovnik so special.
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Morning: Scenic Harbours, Historic Walls, and Iconic Landmarks
If you only have 1 day in Dubrovnik, starting your morning early is the best way to see the city’s top highlights. Begin by exploring quiet harbours, walking the medieval walls, and visiting some of Dubrovnik’s top attractions before the city gets busy.
7:00 AM – Dubrovnik West Harbour
Start your morning at Dubrovnik West Harbour to enjoy the beautiful setting before the crowds arrive. It’s so peaceful early in the day, and the soft morning light makes everything feel even more magical. This spot is a perfect way to kick off your 1 day in Dubrovnik itinerary. Here are a few spots I loved here:
The cement pier right by the harbour – I loved starting here because it’s so calm in the morning. The water is glassy, and you can see the Old Town and the forts all around you. It’s the perfect spot for a photo! Also, you’ll have it all to yourself in the early morning!
Kolorina Beach – This is a tiny, pebbly beach that is tucked into the cove. It’s quiet, and especially early in the day, it feels like your own this little corner of Dubrovnik. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you can even dip your toes in the water here before moving on.
Fort Bokar – The fort sits right at the edge of the harbour and looks especially dramatic from the pier below. I love how it almost feels like it rises right out of the rocks. It’s one of those places that really makes you feel how historic and powerful this city once was.
This whole area is extra fun for a Game of Thrones fan, as several scenes were filmed right here.
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8:00 AM – Dubrovnik City Walls
If you’re spending 1 day in Dubrovnik, walking the city walls in the early morning is a must. Head to the main entrance of the city walls, which is right by Pile Gate, the main gateway into Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The walls officially open at 8:00 AM. I recommend getting there a few minutes early—especially in the busy summer months—because there will be a line before opening.
Walking the medieval walls in the cool morning air is the best way to see the city wake up. From up here, you get stunning views over Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and even the little surrounding areas outside the walls. There are plenty of spots to pause for photos and take your time to enjoy each view.
There are also a few small restaurants to stop for food or coffee and little stands for water or other soft drinks. Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to walk the full loop.
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10:00 AM – Rector’s Palace
After the walls, head to Rector’s Palace, one of Dubrovnik’s most beautiful historic buildings. It was built in the 15th century and served as the seat of the Rector, who was the leader of the old Republic of Ragusa (what Dubrovnik was known as back then). The Rector lived here during his one‑month term and ran the city from this very building. It was used for meeting rooms, a small jail, and even an armory.
Inside, there’s a beautiful open-air courtyard with stone arches and a gorgeous grand staircase. You can also explore a few old rooms and see artifacts that tell the story of the city’s past. There is also a small museum inside that gives an even closer look at Dubrovnik’s history.
Rector’s Palace is not big, and about 30 minutes is enough to see it. It’s a quick but worthwhile stop on a one-day itinerary.
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10:45 AM – Fort Lovrijenac
Next, walk over to Fort Lovrijenac, a dramatic fortress perched on a cliff just outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town. From here, you get some of the best views of the city walls and the beautiful Adriatic Sea. It’s also famous as a Game of Thrones filming location, which makes it a fun stop if you’re a fan.
The fort itself is small, and about 20–30 minutes is plenty to explore and enjoy the views before moving on with your day. If you’ve bought a Dubrovnik City Walls ticket, entry to Fort Lovrijenac is included.
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Midday (Option 1): Beaches and a Cliffside Bar
On a hot day, especially during peak season, taking a break from sightseeing and cooling off by the water is the perfect way to recharge. A beach break like this fits perfectly into any 1 day in Dubrovnik itinerary. After visiting Fort Lovrijenac, it’s just a short walk to a few amazing swimming spots.
12:00 PM – Beach Šulić
This small beach is tucked behind the fort, only about a 2-minute short walk away. It’s a beautiful little inlet where you can swim, sunbathe, or even do a bit of rock jumping. The beach has calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. It is also one of the easiest beaches to swim near the Old Town if you’re short on time but still want a dip.
The beach itself is small and pebbly, with some flat rocks where you can lay out and sunbathe. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are smaller rocks to jump from into the clear water. It’s a fun spot for a casual swim, some rock jumping, or just relaxing by the sea.
Sulic Beach also has a beach bar nearby where you can grab drinks or snacks, so you can eat, drink, sunbathe, and then cool off in the clear water. It’s super chill and a perfect place to spend a few relaxed hours. Keep in mind that the beach does get a bit busier around midday, but there always seems to be a spot to lay out.
It’s a great place to relax for a couple of hours and an easy beach stop to add into your 1 day in Dubrovnik itinerary.
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2:30 PM – Danče Beach
When you’re ready for a change of scenery, walk a little further down the coast to Danče Beach.
This is one of those perfect beach spots if you’re looking to escape the crowds. It’s also a local favorite, with sea ladders built right into the rocks, making it easy to hop in for a swim. We went here midday in the busy summer and were surprised by how peaceful and empty it was!
This local beach is one of the oldest swimming spots in Dubrovnik, it has a raw natural beauty and calm vibe. The shore is made up of rocky platforms and large flat rocks where you can lay out, relax, and enjoy the sound of the waves.
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4:30 PM – Buža Bar
After a busy day of sightseeing and beach stops, make sure you leave enough time to head back into Dubrovnik’s Old Town and check out the iconic Buža Bar. It’s one of those spots that will fit perfectly into your 1 day in Dubrovnik and is an absolute must-visit, even for a little bit. The fun factor here is a solid 10!
Buža Bar is a cliff bar built right into the city walls, with incredible views over the Adriatic Sea. It’s a bit hidden, so you’ll need to walk down some stairs to find it.
Since the bar is built into the cliffs, it has few different levels. Some of the upper levels have tables and chairs, while the lower ones are just rocks where you can tan or cliff jump. There’s also a second bar, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up a high rock for an even bigger jump.
They don’t take reservations—it’s all first come, first served. During the day, most people hang out in their bathing suits, having drinks, swimming, cliff jumping, or just enjoying the views.
If you get the chance to come back at sunset, it’s even more special. The sunsets here are absolutely beautiful.
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Midday (Option 2): Lokrum Island & Exploring Old Town
Another option for your 1 Day in Dubrovnik: If you want a relaxing break from the busy Old Town, taking a short boat ride to Lokrum Island is a perfect midday escape.
12:00 PM – Lokrum Island
You can take the ferry to Lokrum Island, from Dubrovnik’s Old Port and it’s only a 15-minute ride. Boats run regularly all day, and round-trip tickets were €30 for adults and €5 for kids under 18. It’s a great half-day trip that adds a peaceful nature escape to your 1 day in Dubrovnik.
One of the highlights here is the Benedictine Monastery, a beautifully preserved 11th-century building with a peaceful cloister and gardens. I loved walking through the quiet courtyard—it feels like a hidden oasis.
There’s also a small museum inside with exhibits about Lokrum’s history and even a Game of Thrones throne replica for fans to take photos with.
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Aside from the monastery, Lokrum is perfect for slow exploring. You can visit the Botanical Gardens, take a dip in the Dead Sea (a small saltwater lake), or just relax by the rocky shores.
There are also peacocks and bunnies roaming freely around the island, which is super fun to see.
After returning from Lokrum Island, you’ll have enough time in the late afternoon to stroll through Dubrovnik’s Old Town and visit a few more iconic spots before dinner.
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5:00 PM – Old Town Iconic Spots
Start at Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town, and take a moment to admire the city walls up close.
Just inside, there is Onofrio’s Large Fountain, a 15th-century stone fountain that’s perfect for a quick photo (and to refill your water bottle!). This is a quick walk and perfect for your 1 day in Dubrovnik adventure.
Walk along the main street (Stradun), which is always lively with shops, cafés, and street performers.
Don’t forget to stop by the famous Game of Thrones filming location at the Jesuit Stairs—these are the stairs used in Cersei’s “Walk of Shame” scene.
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Evening: Sunest Dinner with an Epic View
To finish off your 1 day in Dubrovnik, head to dinner with a view that’s going to be the cherry on top of your Dubrovnik adventure.
6:30 PM – Dinner at Panorama Restaurant
For dinner, head up (literally) to Panorama Restaurant.
First, you’ll take the Dubrovnik Cable Car to the top of Mount Srđ, which is an experience in itself. The ride is quick, but the views as you go up are incredible.
This is one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik! When we got seated, the place truly felt so special. The food was delicious, but what made it unforgettable were the breathtaking views overlooking the ancient city walls and Old Town Dubrovnik.
Reservations are a must, especially during peak season. We requested a front-row table for the best view, and I definitely recommend booking ahead to get one.
This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a relaxing dinner. It’s the best way to finish your Best 1 day in Dubrovnik.
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Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik
When is the Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik?
Choosing the right time to visit can really shape your Dubrovnik experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
April, May, September and October: Shoulder Season
The shoulder season is a great time to visit. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. You’ll have enough time to enjoy the city without feeling rushed, and it’s easier to find tables at restaurants and explore popular sites like the City Walls and Lokrum Island without the peak season hustle.
June – August: Peak Season
The summer months are the busiest in Dubrovnik, with long days, hot weather, and lots of tourists. This is when the city is at its liveliest, but also the most crowded and expensive. If you visit during this time, plan to start your sightseeing early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and big crowds. You’ll want to book hotels, restaurants, and cable car tickets well in advance.
November – March: Off-season
The off-season is much quieter, and some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or have limited hours. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds and don’t mind cooler weather, this can be a quiet time to explore the Old Town. Just keep in mind that swimming spots and boat trips like might not be available during these months.
How to get around Dubrovnik?
The best way to get around Dubrovnik, especially the old town, is on foot. The Old Town is compact, and most of the main sights are within walking distance. You really don’t need public transport to explore the city center. The stone streets, narrow alleyways, and scenic viewpoints are best enjoyed by walking.
You’ll likely enter through Pile Gate, but there’s also Ploče Gate on the opposite side, which leads you to the eastern entrance of Old Town and the outer walls. Both gates are easy walking routes that connect you to the city’s main attractions.
Public buses are available if you’re staying further out, but once you’re inside the Old Town, walking is the easiest and most enjoyable way to see Dubrovnik.
Is Dubrovnik safe to visit?
In my experience, Dubrovnik felt like one of the safest places I’ve ever visited. It’s the kind of city where people leave their bags and belongings on the beach without worrying. I didn’t see or hear of any pickpockets, which is very different from places like Rome and Paris, where you always have to be cautious.
Everyone we met in Dubrovnik was so friendly and welcoming. The city is also extremely clean—the streets almost sparkle! There’s no trash or litter lying around, and the whole place feels very well cared for.
If you’re worried about safety, Dubrovnik is a destination where you can relax and truly enjoy without constantly being on guard.
Language, do I need to speak Croatian?
You don’t need to worry about speaking Croatian when visiting Dubrovnik. Most people speak English very well, and we never had any language barrier during our trip. In restaurants, shops, and even small local places, communication was always easy.
That said, it’s always respectful to learn a few basic Croatian phrases like “hello” (bok), “thank you” (hvala), and “goodbye” (doviđenja). Locals really appreciate when visitors make a small effort to use their language.
Are there Good Beaches in Dubrovnik?
Absolutely! Dubrovnik is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, so you’ll always find amazing places to swim.
There are so many beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. Some are right next to the city walls, little coves tucked under cliffs, and scenic spots just steps from the Old Town. Others are a bit further out along the coast if you’re up for exploring beyond the city center. Even with just 1 day in Dubrovnik, you can still enjoy time at the beach.
One thing to note is that most beaches here are pebbly, not sandy, so I highly recommend bringing water shoes. But the crystal-clear water makes it impossible to stay away, especially on a hot day!
I wrote a full guide on the 16 Best Beaches in Dubrovnik. It covers my favorite swimming spots, from popular beaches to hidden gems.
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Wrapping Up Your 1 Day in Dubrovnik Itinerary
There’s truly no place like Old Town Dubrovnik. From ancient city walls and hidden beaches to cliff bars and stunning viewpoints, every corner feels special. Even if you only have 1 day in Dubrovnik, you can still experience so much of what makes this city unforgettable.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time. Save this guide for your trip and enjoy every minute exploring this beautiful city!
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Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.