Dubrovnik Guide For Non Game of Thrones Fans
Last Updated on March 5, 2023
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Dubrovnik is a marvellous city drenched in culture, history and beauty.
But these days, when you mention Dubrovnik, a lot of people will say “isn’t that one of those cities in Game of Thrones?”
Well, yes, it was used for filming that show, but fortunately, Dubrovnik is so much more than that, and this Dubrovnik guide will help you to see that too.
Not having watched Game of Thrones, I feared that I may not enjoy the city as much as a true fan of the show but, instead, I really did fall in love with Dubrovnik for other reasons.
If you are a Game of Thrones avid fan then maybe you should read another Dubrovnik guide instead as I don’t recommend any of the film locations here.
Honestly, I wouldn’t know any of them even if I tripped over them!
Visiting Dubrovnik is a richly rewarding experience for anyone interested in history, architecture or Croatian culture. Let’s look at some of the best activities to do in Dubrovnik!
🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. My #1 recommendation is SafetyWing!
Here’s your Dubrovnik Guide!
1. Get the Best View of the City
If there are two things I love it’s sunsets and viewpoints – and man, does Dubrovnik have both of those!
So it made sense to start off this Dubrovnik guide with a sightseeing recommendation!
If you’re wondering what to see in Dubrovnik first, I highly recommend you either walk up or catch the cable car to Srd Hill. A round-trip cable car ride will set you back €17 whereas the walk is free.
Due to time constraints, I decided to catch the cable car up and down, and it turned out to be one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik on its own!
There is a viewing platform but to get away from the crowds and the generic photos I suggest you walk either side of the platform – it’s a great spot for photographers!
2. Stay at the Celenga Studio Apartment
During my stay in Dubrovnik, I got the opportunity to stay at the most marvellous (5-star) apartment complete with a big double bed, kitchenette and bathroom.
The best thing about this was the location. Located right in the heart of Dubrovnik, in the Old Town is a great place to stay for the weekend while exploring the old town and its surroundings!
I would stay here again in a heartbeat, especially during the fall months – it’s one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik in November!
🛌🏼 Check the latest prices and availability here!
3. Spend the Day at Lokrum Island
Thinking about what to do near Dubrovnik? Catch the ferry over to Lokrum island. You can spend a few hours or simply a few days here walking around and exploring.
There’s a really good view from the fort at the top of the island. It’s totally worth the wee hike uphill!
Here’s a Dubrovnik guide top tip: make sure you bring a picnic, because there is only one café and it’s expensive.
It only takes an hour or two to walk around the whole island but in my opinion, it’s worth it.
They even have their own Dead Sea and have some great little swimming spots, one of the more unique things to do in Dubrovnik!
The cost of a return ticket is €16, which includes entry to the island.
4. Wander the Old City
My favourite thing about Dubrovnik was the charm of the old city. There’s plenty of stuff to do in Dubrovnik in the more modern areas, but strolling along these streets is its own reward.
Take an hour or two just to get your bearings and wander through the city enjoying the charm and scenery.
I loved walking around and people watching at what life would be like in this old city for the locals.
There are unlimited cute streets and if you’re a keen Instagrammer you will probably want to spend your whole life taking pictures.
If you’re wondering what to do in Dubrovnik first, then this should be it!
🧳 Joining a Contiki tour was one of the best things I did when I took my first solo trip. Check out their latest deals here.
5. Visit the City Beach Banje
No Dubrovnik guide is complete without at least one trip to the shore!
Located just outside of the old city is Banje beach, and spending time here is one of the most relaxing things to do in Dubrovnik!
I suggest you grab a bite to eat at one of the bakeries just outside the gates and come and relax with a good book for a couple of hours.
💡 PACKING TIP: Make sure you bring a good snorkel, water shoes and a fast-drying towel for all of the beach-going you’re about to do!
The water is beautiful and it’s a nice space for a breath of fresh air if the old town is getting too crowded for you.
To be here when the temperature is just right, make sure you visit in the Spring; enjoying Banje beach is perfect for those wondering what to do in Dubrovnik in April!
6. See St Blasius Church
Sure, there are non touristy things to do in Dubrovnik, but you shouldn’t miss out on this architectural jewel.
This Baroque styled church was built in 1715 and sits in the old city. St Blasius was a prominent figure in Dubrovnik and you can find sculptures of him scattered the city.
According to legend, in the year 971 a priest was warned by an old man by the name of Blasius that the Venetians were planning an attack on Dubrovnik and to warn the council.
When the council was warned they closed the door and the walls were heavily armed and then the Venetians abandoned their plans to attack the city.
Blasius was named a hero and the church was erected in honour of him!
📸 PRO TIP: My go-to camera for all my travels is the Sony A7iii – I highly recommend it!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re visiting for a quick trip, 2 days can be enough to see the main sights and the Old Town. If you want to see all the sights on this Dubrovnik guide, 4-5 days will give you plenty of time to breathe between sights.
Yes! Dubrovnik is very easy to traverse on foot, with many activities and sights of note located in a small enough area for strolling.
Dubrovnik gets very busy during the summer, and hotter as well. Visiting in April-May or September-November will mean you get the best weather and fewer tourists.
There’s your Dubrovnik guide for non Game of Thrones fans!
If you can avoid coming in the busiest months (July-September) then I would highly recommend it as this city is a stopover for being cruise ships that brings in thousands of people.
It’s better to be enjoyed with no schedule, no rushing and without crowds of people. I visited here in April, which seemed like a great time of year to visit!
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The Comments
Ryan Biddulph
Really Anita this was me 2 short years ago. Never watched GOT. Then when I returned to the US my friends got me hooked. Waiting for the season opener this Sunday. Whenever I see the buildings on the water front in Dubrovnik I instantly think Game of Thrones. Awesome pictures here. I cannot wait to see the place.
Agness of eTramping
This is probably the most detailed guide for Dubrovnik I’ve seen in a while, Anita! Do you have to pay to enter the Old Town?
Anita Hendrieka
> Agness of eTrampingNope, you don’t have to pay to get into the old town at all. It’s only the old town walls that you have to pay for! 🙂
Emma
Dear Anita, enjoyed very much your blog. Hope next year to go to Croatia, Greece (Athens) and Egypt. I am in Mexico and have to save Money yo make a trip each year. Certainly your comments and recomendations help. Regards…
Anita Hendrieka
> EmmaThanks for reading Emma. Looks like you have some exciting plans coming up!