Dubrovnik, Croatia

The primary attraction is the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most iconic activity is walking the magnificent Walls of Dubrovnik, which offer stunning views of the city's red rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. The full circuit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

Inside the walls, the main thoroughfare is the limestone-paved Stradun, lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes. For the best panoramic photos, take the Dubrovnik Cable Car up to Mount Srđ. From the cruise port, the Old Town is a 10-15 minute bus or taxi ride away.

Be sure to also visit Lovrijenac, a formidable fortress located just outside the western city walls, often called "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar" for its strategic location on a high cliff.

A popular and very close destination is the island of Lokrum, a lush nature reserve located just a 15-minute ferry ride from the Old Town port. The island features a botanical garden, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, and a small saltwater lake known as the "Dead Sea." Ferries depart regularly, making it an easy half-day excursion.

Another excellent option is the charming coastal town of Cavtat, situated about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Dubrovnik. Reachable in about 30-45 minutes by bus or water taxi, Cavtat offers a beautiful waterfront promenade, historical churches, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Old Town.

Most cruise ships dock at the Port of Gruž, which is located in a protected bay about 3 kilometers (approximately 2 miles) northwest of the historic Old Town. Due to the distance, it is not considered easily walkable, and passengers will need to use transportation like a bus, shuttle, or taxi to reach the main attractions.

The Gruž port area has modern facilities including a passenger terminal with tourist information, ATMs, and souvenir shops. Just outside the port, you'll find an open-air market, cafes, and restaurants. During peak season, some of the largest cruise ships may anchor in the bay and use tender boats to bring passengers ashore, often dropping them closer to the Old Town's Pile Gate.

As of January 2023, the official currency in Croatia is the Euro (EUR). While some vendors in highly touristed areas might have accepted other currencies in the past, it is now essential to use Euros for all transactions.

Credit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels. For cash, ATMs are readily available at the cruise terminal, near the Old Town entrances, and throughout the city. Currency exchange offices (Mjenjačnica) are also common, but ATMs usually offer a more favorable exchange rate.

Dubrovnik is considered a very safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main areas, including the Old Town and the port vicinity, independently during the day and evening.

The primary safety concern is petty crime, such as pickpocketing, which can occur in very crowded places like the Pile Gate entrance or along the busy Stradun. It is wise to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, the Old Town's cobblestone streets can be slippery and uneven, so wearing comfortable, sturdy walking shoes is highly recommended, especially when walking the city walls.

Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making for pleasant weather during the main cruise season from spring through autumn. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and sunny, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and very little rainfall.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are milder and very comfortable for sightseeing, with temperatures between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F), though there is a greater chance of rain showers. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. A light jacket or sweater is advisable for cooler evenings, especially in the shoulder seasons.

The main cruise port in Gruž is located about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Old Town, so transportation is generally required. The most efficient and economical way to reach the main attractions is by public bus.

The local bus company, Libertas, operates frequent services. Look for bus lines 1A, 1B, or 3, which run directly from the bus stop near the port to the Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. Tickets can be purchased at nearby kiosks (tisak) or from the driver. Taxis are also readily available at a designated stand at the port, though they are a more expensive option. You can find more information at the official Libertas Dubrovnik website.

The best shopping is found within the walled Old Town, particularly along the main street, Stradun, and the labyrinth of narrow side streets branching off it. Here you will find a mix of souvenir shops, artisan boutiques, and international brands.

Look for local specialties such as handmade filigree jewelry, products made from lavender, local olive oil, and regional wines. A unique and traditional Croatian souvenir is the cravat (necktie), which originated here. While prices in boutiques are fixed, you may find some room for light bargaining at the open-air market in the Gruž port area. Non-EU residents may be eligible for a VAT refund on larger purchases, so ask for the necessary forms when shopping.