A First-Timer's Guide to Dubrovnik's Old Town

Dubrovnik's Old Town is one of the most photographed places on the Adriatic, and for good reason. Honey-coloured limestone streets, baroque churches and a sea-facing city wall make it feel like an open-air museum. The catch is that everyone knows this, so timing and a little planning go a long way.

Walk the city walls first

The 1,940-metre loop around the walls is the single best thing to do in Dubrovnik. Go right at opening time (usually 8am) or in the last two hours before closing, when the light is soft and the cruise crowds have thinned. Bring water and a hat — there is almost no shade up top.

Get lost in the side streets

The main pedestrian artery, the Stradun, is beautiful but busy. The real charm is in the steep alleys that climb north from it. Wander up a few flights of stairs and you'll find quiet cafés, laundry lines and locals going about their day, all within a two-minute walk of the crowds.

Time your visit around the cruise ships

Dubrovnik can receive several large cruise ships in a single morning. Check a cruise schedule before you go and aim to explore the walls and main sights early, then escape to Lokrum island or a swimming spot in the afternoon when the town is busiest.

Where to cool off

Just outside the walls, Buža Bar clings to the cliffs and is the classic spot for a sunset drink above the sea. For an actual swim, take the short boat to Lokrum, a green island nature reserve with rocky beaches and peacocks roaming the old monastery gardens.