Planning Your Trip to Dubrovnik

When to go

Dubrovnik attracts thousands of tourists during the peak travel months of June through early October and that is the time when hotel space and private rooms/b&b’s are in short supply.

In my opinion, the best time for a trip to Dubrovnik is from September to May including Easter holidays when mild and sunny days are very common. Although, there were times when even snow was falling in Dubrovnik.

As air fares and hotel prices are lowest in winter this could be another good reason to avoid high tourist season.

How long to visit

If your time is precious you can grasp the essence of Dubrovnik in a single day.

A walk along Dubrovnik mediaeval walls, an afternoon spent exploring the city’s streets, an hour in the Stradun with quick coffee/snack are better than skipping Dubrovnik altogether.

However, it’s much nicer to spend a few days in Dubrovnik or, preferably, a week or even longer if you can as Dubrovnik can be a convenient hub for day trips to islands and villages throughout the Dubrovnik region, such as Sipan, Lopud, Kolocep, Cavtat or Mljet and Ston on Peljesac.

Where to stay

Dubrovnik has hundreds of hotels, apartments and private rooms that are rented to visitors. However, it can still be difficult to find a room during high season or during holidays, so it is advisable to book as early as possible.
For advice on accommodations, see accommodations in Dubrovnik.

How to arrive

First advice is not to drive to Dubrovnik unless you have to. Parking is expensive, and finding a parking spot can be almost impossible task in high season.

Train service to Dubrovnik does not exist. Buses are frequent, ferries bit less frequent..

Major airlines as well as lot of budget airlines connect most of European airports to Dubrovnik. The aerial view of Dubrovnik old town while approaching or leaving Dubrovnik Airport is breathtaking on a clear day, and bus ride into the city is a great way to approach Dubrovnik for the first time as views from bus can be inspirative. (Read more about getting to Dubrovnik)

For getting around town after you’ve arrived, see Dubrovnik local transportation and walking around Dubrovnik articles.

Trip to Dubrovnik Planning resources

Check following links:

• Getting to Dubrovnik
• Be sure to read Top 10 Tourist Mistakes in Dubrovnik (and how to avoid them)
• Also, browsing through my Dubrovnik Travel Blog, which has advice, news, photos, and videos on various topics.