Note: All costs were converted from Euro to USD.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Your Insider Guide to the Best Views, Experiences, and Eats

Dubrovnik is as magical in person as it looks in photos—maybe even more. This walled coastal city on the Adriatic Sea offers stunning views, rich history, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. Whether you have one day or several, here are the must-do experiences that will leave you planning your next visit before you even leave.

1. Start With a Free Walking Tour

Kick off your visit with a Free Walking Tour from Free Spirit Tours. It’s tip-based, which makes it accessible to everyone, and it’s a fantastic way to get oriented while learning about the city’s rich history from a local guide. You'll walk the main street Stradun, explore hidden alleys, and hear stories that bring the Old City to life.

2. Walk the Walls for Iconic Views

For the best panoramic views, walk the city walls. It costs about $45 per person, but you can get the Dubrovnik Pass for the same price, which also gives you access to several museums and landmarks like the Franciscan Monastery—home to the world’s oldest apothecary.

3. Ride the Cable Car to Mount Srd

For postcard-perfect views of Dubrovnik’s rooftops and the Adriatic Sea, take the Mount Srd Cable Car. It’s around $30 per person round trip, and ideal for sunset or golden hour.

4. Savor Local Food and Wine

Dubrovnik’s dining scene is full of gems:

• Ginger Caffe: Cuttlefish risotto and Dubrovnik-style dirty macaroni with wine for around $68.
• Cele Lounge Bar: Lasagna, wine, and live music for about $46.
• Lajk Restaurant: Octopus and local beef one block off Stradun for $50.
• Dundo Maroje: Octopus stew, local pasta, and Croatian red wine for $97.
• Cafe Festival: Two beers and live piano music for $18.

Don’t forget Mostro Gelato—we couldn’t resist going back for more. A small cup is around $4.50.

5. Shop Local at Gundulic Square in the Old City

Stroll through Gundulic Square’s market for locally crafted treasures. We picked up handmade earrings made from local plants for $22 from a botanist-turned-jeweler. It’s also a great spot to grab a beer for about $10 for two.

6. Explore the Elaphiti Islands

An Elaphiti Islands tour with Marinero Excursions is a must. For $68 per person, you’ll visit three picturesque islands with drinks and lunch included (we highly recommend the fresh fish option!).

Island highlights include:

• Beach Day on Lopud: A forest trail leads to a quiet beach where you can rent chairs for $11 and take a fun golf cart taxi back for $3.50 per person.
• Jewelry & Wine on Sipan: We found a charming wine and jewelry shop where we bought handmade earrings and a necklace for $120 and enjoyed free wine tastings.
• Bars & Restaurants: Each island offers relaxing spots to eat, drink, and soak up the views.

Final Tip: Go Slow, Go Deep

Dubrovnik isn’t just a sightseeing destination—it’s a place to slow down, taste fully, and live deeply. Whether you're exploring hidden alleyways, sipping wine by the sea, or watching the sunset from a mountaintop, this city leaves a lasting imprint.

How to Spend 2 Perfect Days in Korčula, Croatia

Island Views, Hidden Wineries, and Old Town Charm

While Dubrovnik and Split often steal the spotlight, Korčula quietly wins hearts with its medieval Old Town, island-hopping adventures, and unforgettable food and wine. Whether you stay a day or two, here are the top things to do to experience the best of Korčula.

Explore the Old Town of Korčula

Start your visit by getting lost in Korčula’s medieval Old Town. This walled gem feels like a mini Dubrovnik—without the crowds. Wander the narrow alleys, browse small shops, and soak in the breathtaking water views.

Don’t miss watching the sunset from the western side of the Old Town—it’s absolutely magical.

Dinner Along the Water at Konoba Biankura

We enjoyed a memorable dinner along the waterfront at Konoba Biankura Korčula. The daily specials included homemade pasta with cuttlefish and another with prosciutto and mushrooms. Paired with a glass of local wine, the meal was perfection—and all for about $45 total. Highly recommend!

Island Hop by Water Taxi

One of the easiest ways to explore the nearby islands is by water taxi, which costs around $22 per person for a day of hopping between three destinations:

🦌 Badija Island

An uninhabited island known for its Franciscan Monastery, wild deer, and a 5K walking trail along the water. A peaceful spot to reconnect with nature.

🏖️ Vrnik Island

A car-free island with quiet pebble beaches and crystal-clear water. Perfect for a relaxing swim or a scenic walk.

🍇 Lumbarda’s Wineries

Lumbarda is known for its local wineries and beaches. We visited two incredible family-run spots:

• Bire Winery: A small family-owned winery where we tasted two local wines with a snack plate of meats, cheeses, olives, and dried fruit for $17 per person.
• Popić Winery: Set among vineyards with coastal views, this winery served a generous platter of meats, fish, cheese, bread, olives, and fruit for $28, plus three wine tastings for $17 per person. The views alone are worth the visit.

Final Thoughts: Why Korčula Is Worth Visiting

If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, nature, and authentic local experiences, Korčula is a perfect choice. With its relaxed pace and stunning landscapes, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this Croatian island.

Stay tuned for upcoming posts from Hvar and Split!