When I think about my favorite travel moments, it’s always the views that stay with me. And let me tell you, the viewpoints in Dubrovnik are some of the best I’ve ever seen!
The beautiful city of Dubrovnik is known for its red rooftops, medieval walls, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea stretching as far as you can see. It’s one of those places where every corner feels like a movie set (and honestly, it has been—hello, Game of Thrones!). But to truly experience Dubrovnik’s magic, you need to know where to find the best viewpoints. And that’s exactly what I’m going to share with you in this guide.
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What to Expect from this Blog
I’ll take you through the best places to see the city from above, hidden spots inside the Old Town of Dubrovnik, and scenic overlooks along the Croatian coast. You’ll find perfect photo opportunities for your Instagram, and quiet spots where you can just take in the view and enjoy the moment. These are the best views of the city that you’ll want to pin on your map.
We’ll cover famous locations like Dubrovnik’s Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and lesser-known vantage points that are just as breathtaking. Plus, I’ll share tips on the best time to visit so you can enjoy these views without the crowds.
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
15 Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Old Town is one of the most beautiful places I’ve walked through. There are so many historic buildings, charming streets, and of course the famous Dubrovnik walls. It’s no surprise this area is packed with some of the best photo spots in the city.
For Game of Thrones fans, many scenes were filmed right here, making it even more special.
The best way to explore is on foot; that way, you can stop at all the Instagrammable spots and enjoy every detail up close.
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1. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik City Walls
Walking the Dubrovnik City Walls is hands down the most popular thing to do in the city—and for good reason. This is the ultimate Dubrovnik viewpoint, giving you spectacular views of the Old Town, the endless Adriatic Sea, and even the hills beyond the walls of Dubrovnik.
The entrance fee is €40, which also gives you free access to Fort Lovrijenac. If you want a bit more history and context as you walk, you can also join a guided tour to learn the stories behind the walls.
Walking the entire loop takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how often you stop (and believe me, you’ll stop a lot). There are plenty of photo-worthy corners, little cafés for a coffee break, and spots where you can pause and really enjoy spectacular views. It’s one of the best photo spots in Dubrovnik.
Top tip: Go early morning. The walls officially open at 8:00 AM, but it’s smart to arrive a few minutes before—especially during summer. You’ll beat the crowds, enjoy cooler temps, and get those perfect shots without anyone in the background.
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2. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Minčeta Tower
The iconic Minceta Tower is the highest point on the Dubrovnik City Walls and offers some of the most breathtaking views over the Old City of Dubrovnik. This spot is a favorite for Game of Thrones fans, as it was featured as the House of the Undying in Qarth. If you’re doing a guided tour, your guide will often stop here to share stories and let you enjoy the panoramic views. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from Minčeta Tower are absolutely worth it.
3. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Fort Lovrijenac
Fort Lovrijenac is a dramatic 11th-century fortress located on a cliff just outside Old Town Dubrovnik. It’s only a short walk from Pile Gate and is a great spot to admire the city from a different angle. From this lookout point, you’ll get incredible views of the Dubrovnik City Walls, the red rooftops of the old town, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
You get free access if you’ve already purchased a Dubrovnik City Walls ticket, so it’s an easy add-on to your visit. The fort itself is small, and about 20–30 minutes is plenty to explore, take photos, and enjoy the views before moving on with your day.
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4. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Pile Gate
Pile Gate is the main entrance into Old Town Dubrovnik, and this is where I entered the city for the very first time. It’s not a high viewpoint, but you still get a great view of the stone walls, the old bridge, and the little square right inside.
I stopped here for a quick photo before walking in. I also passed through this spot multiple times during my trip, going in and out of the old town. Pile Gate is especially beautiful at sunset. Taking a photo here is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik—it’s an iconic spot that everyone passes through!
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5. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Ploče Gate
Ploče Gate is the entrance on the east side of Old Town Dubrovnik, opposite from Pile Gate. I used this gate a few times when I was heading toward Banje Beach or walking along the coast. It’s not as busy as the main gate, and you still get a great view of the stone bridge, the city walls, and the Adriatic Sea behind you. If you’re looking for a quieter photo spot, this is a good place to stop for a few pictures before heading into town.
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6. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Banje Beach
Banje Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Old Town Dubrovnik, and it also has an amazing view of the city walls. From the beach, you get a beautiful backdrop of the old town with the sea in front of you. It’s a great spot to relax, swim, and take photos with the city right behind you.
I came here in the morning and again in the afternoon, and the views were beautiful at both times. The light hits the city walls differently throughout the day, so you really can’t go wrong.
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7. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Lokrum Island
Just a quick 15-minute boat ride from Old Town Dubrovnik is one of my favorite places—Lokrum Island. I loved visiting because it’s such a peaceful escape from the city. From the island’s shore, you get a really nice view of the old town and the city walls from the water. It’s also a fun place to explore, with rocky beaches, shaded walking paths, and wild peacocks roaming around.
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8. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Franciscan Monastery
The Franciscan Monastery is located right inside Pile Gate, and while it’s not a high viewpoint, it’s one of the prettiest spots inside Old Town Dubrovnik. The courtyard is peaceful and has beautiful old arches, stone columns, and a little garden in the middle. It’s a great place to take a quick break from the crowds and snap a few photos in a quiet, historic setting.
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9. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: West Harbour
West Harbour is a quiet spot just outside Pile Gate, and it’s one of my favorite places for a great view of Old Town Dubrovnik and the city walls. I came here early in the morning when it was still empty—it was quiet and peaceful.
There’s a small cement pier where you can take beautiful photos with the old town and forts all around you. Kolorina Beach is also nearby, tucked into a little cove. It’s a calm spot to relax or dip your toes in the water.
This whole area is extra fun, especially for Game of Thrones fans, as several scenes were filmed right here
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10. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Fort Bokar
Next is Fort Bokar, which sits right at the edge of West Harbour and has one of the best views of Old Town Dubrovnik and the sea. From the pier below, it looks like the fort is rising straight out of the rocks. It’s one of those places that really makes you feel how historic and powerful the city once was.
It’s a quick stop, but a great spot for photos and a must-see for Game of Thrones fans, since scenes were filmed right here.
11. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Panorama Restaurant
One of the prettiest places I loved for sunset and dinner is Panorama Restaurant. And let me tell you—it’s no joke, the place really does have a panoramic view! It felt so special from the moment we arrived and quickly became one of my favorite spots in Dubrovnik.
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. Once you reach the cable car station, the restaurant is right there.
We came for dinner in the late afternoon, which I highly recommend. 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 views of Dubrovnik, and I definitely suggest booking ahead to get one.
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12. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Buza Bar
The fun factor here is a solid 10! I loved Buza Bar because it’s literally built right into the cliffs, and the breathtaking views over the Adriatic Sea are hard to beat. This is the ideal spot to grab a drink and sit by the edge while looking out over the Sea.
Since we stayed close by, we came here a few times—during the day for a quick break and again at sunset, which was my favorite time. The vibe is super chill, and it honestly felt like I was sitting on the edge of the world.
13. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Jesuit Stairs
The Jesuit Stairs are one of the most famous spots in Old Town Dubrovnik, especially for Game of Thrones fans—these are the stairs used in Cersei’s “Walk of Shame” scene. They lead up to the Jesuit Church and give you a really nice view looking down into the old town. It’s a quick stop, but a fun photo spot with the historic streets all around you.
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14. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Mirador Viewpoint (Bokar Bastion Overlook)
This Mirador viewpoint is a huge stone balcony and observation deck overlooking Bokar Bastion. If you want to enjoy it without the crowds, come early. I came here in the morning and had the whole place to myself, which made it even better. The views of the fort, the city walls, and the sea are incredible from up here. It’s a quiet spot that’s perfect for photos or just taking a little break from the busy streets.
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15. Best Viewpoints in Dubrovnik: Rector’s Palace
The Rector’s Palace is a beautiful historic building in the middle of Old Town Dubrovnik. Inside, there’s an open-air courtyard with stone arches and a grand staircase that I thought was really pretty. You can also walk through a few old rooms and see artifacts that tell the story of Dubrovnik’s past, including exhibits about the Croatian War of Independence. There’s even a small museum inside for a closer look at the city’s history.
It’s not a high viewpoint, but I still wanted to include it. The courtyard is such a peaceful and beautiful spot where you can see a different side of Dubrovnik—away from the crowds. Rector’s Palace is not big, and about 30 minutes is enough to see it.
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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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.