Sveti Jacov beach, Dubrovnik, Croatia. Photo: Shutterstock Dubrovnik is frequently called one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful cities, but if you've never been, it's easy to think it's just another marketing pitch. Once you land at the small and modern Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport and set foot in the city, your doubts will evaporate.
Less than half an hour after landing in Dubrovnik, you can already be swimming in the Adriatic, and you have two alternatives here.
Option 1: Take a taxi to the beautiful seaside town of Cavtat (6 km from the airport) and you will get there in under 10 minutes (Є17). You can also opt for the cheaper bus alternative (line 11 will take you there in under 10 minutes for Є1.75-Є2.60). Unwind after your flight and grab something to eat by the waterfront. A pizza costs €10–15, sandwiches and salads are sold at €8–14, while grilled fish, pasta, or local meat dishes typically cost €15–25. Beer is €3.50–5, and you can find coffee for €2.
Next, you can go for a relaxing swim for your first contact with the crystal clear Adriatic Sea water, then continue to Dubrovnik in the afternoon (about 25–30 minutes from Cavtat to the city).
Cavtat. Photo: Zigres / Shutterstock.comOption 2: If you want to head straight into Dubrovnik, Banje Beach is the quickest option. The airport is about 20 km from the city, and a taxi ride to Banje Beach takes roughly 19–20 minutes in light traffic (Є45-Є55). Using rideshare services or a pre-booked private transfer often provides a slightly more budget-friendly option, with rates starting closer to €30–€35.
If you're eager to start your adventure in King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms from the iconic Games of Thrones series, you need to get to the UNESCO-listed Old Town. To do that, all you need to do is walk for roughly 3 minutes, as the beach sits right outside the eastern entrance to the historic center.
Old Town, Dubrovnik. Photo: Francesco Bonino / Shutterstock.comOnce you are there, walk along Stradun, the city's famous limestone boulevard, and spend the morning exploring historic landmarks, squares, churches, and the picturesque Old Port. The best way to experience Dubrovnik is often by simply wandering through its maze of narrow alleyways and staircases.
If you're traveling on a budget or you simply do not feel like choosing restaurants on the busiest sections of Stradun, where prices also tend to be highest, look for traditional konobas (Croatian taverns) located on side streets, or check out family-run restaurants serving local specialties.
Traditional food in Dubrovnik. Photo: ShutterstockFor a quick bite, look for bakeries selling fresh burek and pastries. Prices there range from €2–4 for coffee, €3–5 for burek or pastry breakfast, €12–18 for lunch at a local tavern, and €18–30 for seafood dinner (always fresh out of the sea).
No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without walking the city walls (€40). The route offers spectacular views over the Old Town's terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. Start early to avoid both crowds and midday heat.
Dubrovnik city walls. Photo: ShutterstockAllow two to three hours for the experience, including plenty of photo stops, as the area is 100% Instagrammable. After walking at least 10,000 steps up and down the area, you can reward yourself with fresh grilled fish, black risotto, octopus salad, or Croatian cheeses and cured meats (€15–20 at lunch or €15–25 for dinner).
After two days of sightseeing, it's time to dedicate a full day (or three) to the sea.
Sveti Jacov beach. Photo: ShutterstockSveti Jakov Beach is one of Dubrovnik's most beautiful beaches and remains quieter than the more famous Banje Beach. The reward for descending the staircase to the beach is stunning water and one of the best views of Dubrovnik's skyline.
Instead of eating at beach bars, you can save money by buying tasty sandwiches from a bakery for €4–6, picking up fruit and drinks from a supermarket (€8–12), and bringing your own water bottle. Beach chair rental (optional) runs for €15–20.
Lapad offers a more relaxed, but equally breathtaking side of Dubrovnik.
Lapad Peninsula. Photo: ShutterstockYou can spend the day walking the seaside promenade, swimming in secluded coves, and enjoying the gorgeous views across the Adriatic. The area is generally less crowded than the Old Town and often offers better value for food and accommodation. In terms of food, you must try their grilled squid, seafood pasta, fresh mussels, and local Croatian wines. Typical prices here range from €12–18 for lunch, €18–25 for dinner, and €2–4 for gelato (ice cream).
Gelato in Dubrovnik. Photo: ShutterstockJust a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik lies Lokrum Island, one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips.
Lokrum Island. Photo: ShutterstockWhat can you do here? Plenty! For example, you can spend the day exploring beautiful pine forests and botanical gardens, go swimming in a rocky area with some of the clearest waters you have ever seen, and go on a scenic walking trail. The island's peacocks and peaceful atmosphere make it feel far removed from the busy city.
Peackock at Lokrum Island. Photo: ShutterstockMake sure you bring water, snacks, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes. Budget-wise, expect to pay around €30 for a return ferry ticket and €10–20 for lunch and snacks.
Accommodation prices vary significantly depending on the season. Guesthouses and apartments run for €50–90 per night, while three- and four-star hotels cost between €100–180 per night. Premium hotels and resorts start at €250+ per night.
If you're looking to save on accommodation, you will find better value by staying in Lapad or Babin Kuk rather than inside the Old Town walls.
A week should give you enough time to appreciate both sides of Dubrovnik: the historic city that draws visitors from around the world and the stunning Adriatic coastline that makes the region such a rewarding beach destination, without breaking the bank.