What to do in Dubrovnik Before or After Your MedSailors Holiday

Dubrovnik is a city with a sprawling and unique history, fantastical vibe encompassing every inch, a hotspot for TV and movie locations, and so much more. So we’ve put together a handy guide on what to do in Dubrovnik before or after your sailing holiday to help you maximize your time in the Pearl of the Adriatic!

Whether you’ve just finished an epic week sailing around the Croatian Islands with MedSailors, or you’re staying in Dubrovnik before your trip, there are a myriad of activities and sights to see that it can fast become overwhelming. No need to worry, we have the scoop on the best sights and activities in Dubrovnik that you can pull off in just a couple of days! Let’s dive in.

Escape the Crowds By Wandering Early

Given the huge popularity of Dubrovnik as a holiday destination, during peak summer the city can become quite busy. But there are plenty of ways to see this amazing place unspoiled by crowds — exploring early. And when we say early, we mean sunrise early.

If you hit the cobbled streets at sunrise, you’ll find yourself mostly alone wandering the streets in golden hour light truly absorbing the dreamlike surroundings. Another amazing idea is to escape the city walls and find a perch on the surrounding coastal cliffs overlooking Dubrovnik to watch the sun climb over the mountains and illuminate the ancient city.

Get Lost In The Winding Alleyways

One of the most fascinating parts of Dubrovnik is the winding ancient alleyways to get lost in. Wandering just two streets over from the main square will lead you snaking through the awe-inspiring walled city under stone archways to secret cafes and restaurants built into the fortifications themselves.

Don’t forget to find your way through the hole in the wall that leads to a cliffside cocktail bar, perfect for sunset. The best part, this is a great way to cool off in the high-walled shaded alleys and escape the crowds.

Kayak Around the Ancient Walls

If you fancy exploring Dubrovnik in a unique way and don’t mind getting a bit wet, rent a kayak and see the fortifications from the sea while paddling along the rugged coastline. Marvel at the high walls that seem to grow right from the rocks themselves and discover hidden caves dotting the bay.

Our recommendation would be to either head out on a kayak tour to learn a bit of the history or rent your own and explore on your own either early morning or before sunset to escape the intense summer heat.

Hunt Down TV and Movie Locations

When many think of Dubrovnik, they think King’s Landing and GoT. Though it is much more than film locations, that doesn’t mean it’s not fun to track down your favourite film scenes around the city. From Star Wars to Game of Thrones and more, you’ll find yourself stopping every so often to say, “Hey, this is where ______ was filmed!”

Feast Until You Burst

Dubrovnik’s food scene will be some of the best you can find around the Croatian islands with traditional Croatian and Dalmatian dishes to fusion restaurants and international eats.

Hit the bakeries and cafes for unique Croatian snacks during the day. Discover a hidden shaded lunch spot in the alleyways for a mid-day bite. Dine in the ancient squares beneath towering cathedrals and fortifications at night. Listen out for the music ringing through alleyways to find a good live band at dinner time!

Our budget tip: Head off the main square to find a cheaper and tastier local fare.

Walk the Walls for Unparalleled Views

One of the most captivating aspects of Dubrovnik is the massive fortifications surrounding the entire Old Town and a must for history lovers and anyone wanting a unique view of the city. This is one activity that will make your jaw drop and give you an idea of the vast expanse of Dubrovnik Old Town within the walls.

To beat the crowds, head in for the first entry to the walls at 8 am, or go after the cruise ship crowds have retreated for lunch. The walls are even a great way to spend sunset at one of the fortification bars lining the walls that have unbeatable views of the Elaphiti islands.

Hitch a ride on the Cable Car for a Breathtaking Sunset

Without a doubt, the best sunset views of Dubrovnik and the stunning Elaphiti islands dotting the sea around it is from above. Hop on the cable car and head to the mountaintop fort for unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding Mediterranean.

If you’re up for the challenge, you can even hike up Mount Srd 1,352 feet along a winding 1.5 mile trek…but not recommended in the peak summer heat!

Our tip: Pack a picnic, a blanket, and some drinks and find a good viewpoint to soak in the sunset in style.

Ready to explore the unforgettable fortified city of Dubrovnik for yourself? Book your MedSailors Croatia Discovery or Voyager sailing holiday today!