How to Spend the Best 2 Days in Dubrovnik: Itinerary

If you only have 2 days in Dubrovnik, don’t worry! This is still the perfect amount of time to see many highlights in this beautiful city by the Adriatic Sea. You’ll get to explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spend time by the water, and enjoy great meals with a view.

This guide covers the best things to do on a shorter trip. I’ll also share the best places to eat, swim, and explore so you can make the most of your time here.

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What to Expect When You’re Spending 2 Days in Dubrovnik

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 loved walking through many of its narrow stone streets. I passed lively squares and buildings that have stood there for centuries. There are also cozy cafés, little shops, and quiet corners everywhere. It truly felt like stepping back in time.

You will see many stunning viewpoints and some Game of Thrones filming locations while exploring the city. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan and have a little extra time beyond these 2 days in Dubrovnik, you can join many of the Game of Thrones tours. It’s a fun way to visit 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 might be passing through Dubrovnik for just a day trip before going to another place or arriving on one of the cruise ships. This guide will help you visit the best attractions without feeling rushed.

Ready for the perfect day trip? Here’s how to spend the perfect 2 days in Dubrovnik and make the most out of your visit.

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Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Best 2 days in Dubrovnik: The Perfect Itinerary

To make the most of your 2 days in Dubrovnik and have the best experience, you really have to start early! Focus on a few main attractions in Dubrovnik’s Old Town first.

During the summer months, mornings are ideal. You can visit the main sites before it gets too hot and crowded.

After sightseeing for a few hours, go to the nearby beaches for amazing sea views and great photo opportunities.

This balance lets you see the highlights without feeling rushed and enjoy everything that makes Dubrovnik so special.

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Day 1 of your 2 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary

Morning: Scenic Harbours, Historic Walls, and Iconic Landmarks

If you only have 2 days 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.

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7 AM – Check out Dubrovnik West Harbour (2 Days in Dubrovnik)

Start your morning at Dubrovnik West Harbour to enjoy the beautiful setting before the crowds show up. It’s peaceful early in the day, and the soft morning light makes everything feel even more magical. This is the perfect place to kick off your 2 days in Dubrovnik. Here are a few spots I loved here:

Start at Cement pier right by the harbour

I loved starting here because it’s so calm in the morning. The water is calm, and you can see the Old Town and the forts around you. It’s the perfect time and a great spot for a photo! You’ll have it all to yourself in the early morning!

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Walk to Kolorina Beach

This is a tiny, pebbly beach tucked into the cove. It’s quiet, and especially early in the morning, it feels like your own 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.

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Continue to 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 appreciate the history and power this city once had.

This whole area is extra fun for a Game of Thrones fan since scenes were filmed right here.

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8 AM – Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls

If you’re spending 2 days 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 entry into Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The walls officially open at 8:00 AM. I recommend arriving a few minutes early, especially in the busy summer months, as 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 the 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 AM – Visit Fort Lovrijenac

Next, walk over to Fort Lovrijenac, a dramatic fortress sitting on a cliff just outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town. From here, you can see 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 30 minutes is plenty to explore and enjoy the views before moving on with your day. If you have a Dubrovnik City Walls ticket, entry to Fort Lovrijenac is included.

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Midday: Beaches and a Cliffside Bar (2 days in Dubrovnik)

On a hot day, especially in peak season, taking a break from sightseeing and cooling off by the water is a great way to recharge. A beach break like this works well in any 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary. After visiting Fort Lovrijenac, it’s only a short walk to a few amazing swimming spots.

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11:00 AM – Swim at Beach Sulic 

This small beach is located behind the fort, just a 2-minute walk away. It’s a lovely little inlet where you can swim, sunbathe, or even do some 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 to take 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 hours relaxing. Keep in mind that the beach does get 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 include in your 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary.

2 PM – Relax at Dance Beach

When you’re ready for a change of scenery, walk a little further down the coast to Dance 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 into the rocks that make it easy to jump in for a swim. We visited here midday in the middle of 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 natural beauty and calm vibe. The shore is made up of rocky platforms and large flat rocks where you can lie down, relax, and enjoy the sound of the waves. 

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4:30 PM – Have fun at Buza 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 Buza Bar. It’s one of those spots that will fit perfectly into your 2 days 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 different levels. Some of the upper levels have tables and chairs, while the lower ones are just rocks where you can tan or jump off the cliffs. 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. You can have drinks, swim, cliff jump, or just enjoy the views.

If you get the chance to come back at sunset, it’s even more special. The sunsets here are absolutely beautiful.

Evening: Sunest Dinner with an Epic View (2 days in Dubrovnik)

To wrap up your first day of your 2 days in Dubrovnik, enjoy dinner with the best view. It will be the cherry on top of your Dubrovnik adventure.

6:30 PM – Have Dinner at Panorama Restaurant

For dinner, head up (literally) to Panorama Restaurant.

First, you’ll take a Cable Car ride 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 stunning 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 end your first day on your 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary.

Day 2 of your 2 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary

Morning: Sightseeing on Your 2 Days in Dubrovnik

Make sure to start your day early for sightseeing in the morning.

8 AM – Visit Old Town Iconic Spots 

Start at Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. Take a moment to admire the city walls up close.

Check out Onofrio’s Large Fountain

Just inside, there is Onofrio’s Large Fountain, a 15th-century stone fountain. It’s great for a quick photo and to refill your water bottle! This is a short walk and a perfect stop for your 2 days in Dubrovnik adventure.

Walk along the famous Stradun Street

This is the main street in Old Town. It is always lively with shops, cafés, and street performers.

Go up the Jesuit Stairs

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.

9 AM – Visit Rector’s Palace

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 led the old Republic of Ragusa, which is what Dubrovnik was called 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 lovely open-air courtyard with stone arches and a stunning grand staircase. You can also explore a few old rooms and see artifacts that tell the story of the city’s past. There is a small museum inside that gives an even closer look at Dubrovnik’s history. 

Rector’s Palace is not large, and about 30 minutes is enough to see it. It’s a quick but worthwhile stop on your 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary.

10 AM – Swim at Banje Beach

If you’re staying near Dubrovnik old town, Banje Beach is an absolute must! It is also the main beach in the city and one of the most popular spots in Dubrovnik.

Getting there is just a short walk from the Old Town’s Ploče Gate. It’s easy to get to if you’re staying in Dubrovnik’s old town or close by. The views here are hard to beat. You can see the old town walls and nearby islands such as Lokrum Island, right from the shore.

When you get to Banje Beach, you’ll see that there’s both a public and a private area. In the public section, anyone is free to lay down their towel. But for more comfort, there is also a beach club, which is what I chose. There, I rented loungers, ordered drinks, and spent the day relaxing.

Just a heads up: the beach club only takes cash for chair and umbrella rentals, though the restaurant on site does accept credit cards. Like most beaches in Dubrovnik, this one has pebbles, so bring your water shoes!

Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Lokrum Island (2 Days in Dubrovnik)

Take the ferry to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik’s Old Port. It’s just a 15-minute ride. Boats run regularly throughout the day. Round-trip tickets cost €30 for adults and €5 for kids under 18. This is a great half-day trip that adds a peaceful nature escape to your 2 days in Dubrovnik.

2 PM – Spend the afternoon on Lokrum Island

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.

Inside, there’s also a small museum with exhibits about Lokrum’s history and a replica of the Iron Throne for Game of Thrones fans to take photos with. Even in peak summer, it wasn’t crowded, so I only had a few people in front of me for a photo.

Aside from the monastery, Lokrum is perfect for slow exploring. You can visit the Botanical Garden, 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 really fun to see.

After returning from Lokrum Island, you’ll have enough time in the late afternoon to stroll through Dubrovnik’s Old City and visit a few more iconic spots before dinner.

Evening: Sunest Dinner with a View (2 days in Dubrovnik)

To wrap up your 2 days in Dubrovnik, enjoy dinner with a view of the Adriatic, the old harbor, and the city walls.

6:30 PM – Have Dinner at Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant

Just a 4-minute walk from Ploce Gate, Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant is one of my favorite spots for beautiful harbor views. I recommend making a reservation and requesting a front-row table; it doesn’t cost extra, and the view is worth it. 

I came here for dinner, but they also serve breakfast and lunch. If you want to save money on lunch or dinner but still enjoy the views, come here for breakfast. If you visit later in the day for lunch or dinner, the squid ink black risotto with cuttlefish was one of our favorites.

Travel Tips & Things to Know for 2 Days in Dubrovnik

When is the Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik?

Choosing the right time to visit, especially if you only have 2 days in Dubrovnik, can really shape your 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. During this time, 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 with fewer crowds, 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 during your 2 days in 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 for my 2 days in Dubrovnik?

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. You’ll always find amazing places to swim, even if you are only spending 2 days in Dubrovnik.

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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