Dubrovnik; known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ is one of the region’s most dazzling destinations. The compact ancient Venetian-Gothic city is known for its glorious sunshine, spectacular architecture and picturesque cobbled streets, and of course, not forgetting the gorgeous turquoise blue Adriatic Sea that surrounds it.
The UNESCO heritage-listed historical centre simply oozes with tales from the past, all nestled within over 2 kilometres of ancient walls – most of which you can walk along!
This Dubrovnik 2 days itinerary covers everything you’ll need to know to plan your perfect trip, including the best things to see in Dubrovnik, how to get around and loads of insider tips and know-how for visiting Dubrovnik.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend in Dubrovnik, a romantic city break or travelling on a longer trip around the region, this is the perfect Dubrovnik itinerary for you.
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Dubrovnik 2 days itinerary – How to use this guide
This 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary is divided into sections. The first section is a glance that gives an overview of the top things to do in Dubrovnik. The second section breaks down each day in detail.
In the final section, you’ll find FAQs that answer things like when to visit and where to stay in Dubrovnik, getting around and of course useful travel tips.
Related Article: Small Group Tours of Croatia (even for solo travellers!)
2 days in Dubrovnik – At a Glance
No time to read the whole article, but curious about what’s included in this 2 day Dubrovnik itinerary? Then this section is for you, here’s the low-down of what’s included, starting with the must-see Dubrovnik attractions and some of the top landmarks in Dubrovnik. You can also download this quick reference guide with a location map and checklist straight to your inbox.
10 Best Things To See In Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik’s City Walls
- Dubrovnik Old Harbour
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Lokrum Island
- Srd Hill & Dubrovnik Cable Car
- Stradun
- Rector’s Palace
- Jesuit Stairs
- City Gates – The Pile Gate & The Ploce Gate
- Onofrio Fountain
…and of course the resident cats of Dubrovnik (they are everywhere!)
Dubrovnik In Two Days – Day By Day Overview
Day 1 – Visit the most iconic Dubrovnik landmarks in the old town and explore the picturesque cobbled streets early on in the day. Take the short ferry boat from Dubrovnik Old Harbour across to Lokrum Island to escape the peak crowds. In the evening take the cable car up to Srd Hill for panoramic views of the sun setting over the iconic city over a cocktail and meal.
Day 2 – Immerse yourself in even more history as you climb the Old City Wall for an early morning wall walk before heading up to the old Fort of Lovrijenac. Escape the heat of the afternoon and the crowds by visiting some of the intricately decorated buildings and world-class museums. Finish the day off with a sunset kayak tour to see the city from a different perspective and visit a private cove to watch the sun go down over the Adriatic Sea.
Bonus Day or Alternative Suggestion – Escape the bustle of the crowds and head for the adorable fishing village of Cavtat or take a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro.
This two days in Dubrovnik travel guide will cover everything you need to know. You can download the information covered in this Dubrovnik 2 days itinerary, plus a map and checklist here for offline viewing.
What you can expect in this article...
Dubrovnik, Croatia – History in a nutshell
There have been settlements in the area we now know as Dubrovnik which date back to Roman times. However, it wasn’t until the 13th century that Dubrovnik began to take on more of an appearance of what we recognise today. Previously the city was known as the Republic of Ragusa.
Historically, a moat separated Ragusa from the mainland and the walls were used as the City’s main defence. Today, the walls of Dubrovnik run for nearly 2km (1.3miles approx.), and most of this you can walk around.
Although the Walls of Dubrovnik date back to the 13th century, additions, earthquakes and of course the civil war in the ’90s meant that they have changed considerably over the centuries. The defensive walls were initially built for protection from foreign attacks from the Venetians and Ottomans amongst others.
Between 1205 and 1358 Ragusa fell under the reign of the Venetians. Their legacy can still be seen today throughout the city, with plenty of Venetian style architecture still dotted around the historical centre. Then from the 14th to 18th century, it was the turn of the Ottomans to reside over Ragusa.
The city was nearly destroyed during a devastating earthquake in 1667, with the only building surviving the quake being the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace.
Dubrovnik gained the name ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. This comes from looking down on the city from above; you’ll see the gleaming and light coloured, circular-ish shaped city surrounded by the sapphire colour sea making it look like a giant peal. In 1918, Ragusa changed its name to Dubrovnik.
In 1979 the City of Dubrovnik became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then in 1991 was heavily shelled during the breakup of Yugoslavia. This caused detrimental damage to the iconic Old City. During the ’90s and ’00s, Dubrovnik underwent major reconstruction, restoration and repairs to bring the iconic city back to its former glory.
More recently, the city has gained even more popularity with tourists looking for filming locations for the popular series, Game of Thrones. For the die-hard fans, there is a whole side-line industry built on this newfound claim to fame, with dedicated tours and gift shops selling memorabilia for the show.
Don’t forget your travel insurance.
Before you set off on your amazing trip to Dubrovnik, make sure you have booked your travel insurance.
Two companies I recommend are True Traveller (although they only cover EU citizens) or World Nomads (all nationalities).
Dubrovnik Itinerary - Day 1
Morning
Explore Dubrovnik Old Town – This Dubrovnik in 2 days itinerary starts with getting a feel for the city. One of the best ways to do this is by exploring the pedestrian-only historical Old Town to get your bearings.
To save time during your 48 hours in Dubrovnik, it’s worth either doing a bit of homework beforehand, so you know exactly where to go (or you could download this map here). Another way to ensure you get the most out of the quieter hours is by booking an early morning tour of Dubrovnik.
Apart from the beautiful cobbled streets, these early morning tours will show you all the iconic landmarks in Dubrovnik including The City Gates; The Pile Gate & The Ploce Gate, the Stradun (this is the main street in the Old Town, and also the widest), Jesuit Stairs and the Onofrio Fountain (it’s worth knowing that you can fill up your water bottle here).
Book Now: Early Bird Tour of Dubrovnik
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting Dubrovnik during peak season (July and August), I recommend starting early (6-7 am) before the crowds arrive. Dubrovnik gets insanely busy, and by that, I mean absolutely rammed! If you’re wanting to get those gorgeous photos without anyone in them, then you and your camera NEED to be there early.
Tourists flock to Dubrovnik Old City in their droves and after several cruise ships and coaches have offloaded, the place starts to resemble Disney Land. Two other advantages of starting at this time is that the light is beautiful at this hour of the morning and the temperature is also a lot more comfortable.
Although part of the fun with old cities, is getting lost in the myriad of little lanes, you could also pick up a map at the visitor centre or download this interactive map to navigate your way about. If you don’t mind the crowds or detest early mornings then you could opt for a small group tour of Dubrovnik instead which will also go to all of the must-see in Dubrovnik places. If you’re a keen photographer, then you might be interested in this photo tour of Dubrovnik.
If you’re opting to find your own way around the city, then be sure to add these places to your Dubrovnik bucket-list
- The Pile Gate & The Ploce Gate – these are the two main gates that go into the historical centre. The Pile Gate is to the west and the Ploče Gate in the east side of the wall.
- Stradun – This wide, straight and long street is Dubrovnik’s main drag. It’s made from limestone that gleams in the sun and dates back to the 13th century. It is lined with stunning Venetian architecture with narrow lanes, paths and staircases leading off. Certainly, head down there to explore the area – part of the fun is getting lost in here. Along Stradun you’ll find an abundance of (overpriced) cafes, restaurants and gift shops.
Check Availability: Small Group Tour of Dubrovnik Old Town
- Onofrio’s Fountain – Located at the Pile Gate end of the Stradun you’ll find the gigantic freshwater fountain. The water here is drinkable so you can fill up your water bottle.
- The Jesuit Stairs – The magnificent Baroque style Jesuit Staircase leads up to St. Ignatius Church and the Jesuit College. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you might recognise the stairs as it was used as a filming location.
- Sponza Palace – Sponza Palace dates back to the 16th-century palace and is one of the few buildings that survived the 1667 earthquake that I mentioned earlier. The columned facade of this building is stunning, and historically it served as a customs house, treasury, armoury, and bank. Today it’s a museum (that’s certainly worth going inside).
- Dubrovnik Cathedral – The 17th century ornately decorated Baroque Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The building that stands here today, was rebuilt on the site of an original 12th-century Romanesque-style church. This original church was destroyed in the earthquake.
- Dubrovnik Cathedral – The 17th century ornately decorated Baroque Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. The building that stands here today, was rebuilt on the site of an original 12th-century Romanesque-style church. This original church was destroyed in the earthquake.
- Rector’s Palace – Between the 14th to 19th centuries, this building housed the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa. Today this ornate, columned building houses the city museum where you’ll find a mix of artwork, costumes and artefacts documenting the city’s history. The Rector’s Palace was another filming location in Game of Thrones.
- Rector’s Palace – Between the 14th to 19th centuries, this building housed the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa. Today this ornate, columned building houses the city museum where you’ll find a mix of artwork, costumes and artefacts documenting the city’s history. The Rector’s Palace was another filming location in Game of Thrones.
- Clock Tower – Walking around the old city, you’ll be able to look up at the Clock Tower that stands in Luza Square. You’ll get a much more eye-level view of it when you do the city wall walk. It dates from 1444 and the bells chime each day at noon.
- Dominican Monastery – You’ve guessed it, another filming location for Game of Thrones. I adored this little set of steps leading up to the 14th century Dominican Monastery. You’ll find them between the Sponza Palace and the Ploče Gate. There is a gothic style courtyard inside, as well as an original bell tower. If you’re interested in art, then a small museum houses 15th and 16th-century artwork, painted by Dubrovnik School artists.
- Dubrovnik Old Harbour – The Old Port Dubrovnik is situated on the Eastern side of the City. The harbour is still in use with plenty of sightseeing boat tours, the ferry boat to get to Lokrum Island, as well as the water taxi to nearby Cavtat.
- Dubrovnik Old Harbour – The Old Port Dubrovnik is situated on the Eastern side of the City. The harbour is still in use with plenty of sightseeing boat tours, the ferry boat to get to Lokrum Island, as well as the water taxi to nearby Cavtat.
Book Now: The Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour
If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, be sure to make a bee-line for all the major highlights very early in the day as these get particularly busy. If you’re not sure where to find them, then I recommend joining this ultimate Game of Thrones tour, which will show you all the filming locations.
After doing some early morning exploration, as the crowds start to grow, head to the side streets to chill over a late breakfast or brunch. With such an early start, it’s quite a satisfying feeling to know you’ve got some awesome crowd-free shots and seen loads of Dubrovnik Old Town before the hoards show up.
Also, one for the animal lovers here, keep an eye out for the super cute cats of Dubrovnik, they are EVERYWHERE! Casually lounging about on buildings, poking their heads out of windows and sitting in any warm spot they can find. The cats are mostly feral and just live in the city, however, they are used to tourists so they are quite relaxed if you want to get close to photograph them….which of course meant I took dozens of pictures of the cute felines.
Related Article: 26+ Outstanding Ideas For Your Croatia Bucket List
Day 1 – Afternoon
Lokrum Island – The afternoon of your Dubrovnik 2 days itinerary continues over on Lokrum Island. By the afternoon, the heat in Dubrovnik can get intense, especially in the summer months.
It makes for the perfect sense then to escape the heat of the sun and the crowds by catching the boat over to nearby Lokrum Island. It’s just a 15-minute journey to take a mere 6oo metres from the mainland! Lokrum Island is a Nature Reserve just off the coast of Dubrovnik Old Town and various boats to Lokrum Island depart from just outside the City Walls from The Old Port.
Although there are lots of different island hopping tours from Dubrovnik available, you only need the return ticket to Lokrum Island. The vendors selling tickets will try very hard to sell you tickets that you don’t necessarily need with lots of added stuff. Once on Lokrum Island, you will be ushered into the little cottage, this is where you pay the admission fee.
There’s a lot packed into this Dubrovnik in two days itinerary, so visiting the nature reserve is a welcome opportunity to chill in the shade of the pine, olive and cypress trees – they smell divine. If you have 3 days in Dubrovnik, you could easily spend a whole day, just here.
You Might Like: Island Hopping to the Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik
On the island there is a colony of very tame rabbits, look out for them in the grassy areas, and if you’re patient, they will come and eat out of your hand if you offer them food. There are also peacocks wandering about too – but don’t try to feed these.
Also, it’s good to know. If you’re worried about tan lines, fret not, Lokrum Island also boasts its own nudist beach! It’s slightly off the main walking trail, so if you’re visiting with young children, you’ll be able to avoid this.
Lokrum Island Highlights
- Botanical Gardens
- Fort Royal
- Benedictine Monastery
- If you are a Game of Thrones fan then check out one of the props used in the series. You’ll find a Throne in the museum under the Monastery, you can also do a Game of Thrones tour of Lokrum Island!
After relaxing away in the afternoon, catch the return ferry back to the mainland. It picks up at the little jetty where you paid the entrance fee to the island. Find out more about Lokrum Island, here.
Getting to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik - Scams to Avoid
Beware A LOT of companies will try and sell you some form of ‘Island Hopping Tour’. If you have longer and aren’t doing Dubrovnik in 2 days, then it’s perhaps worthwhile, but a lot of them seemed overpriced.
Some of the ticket touts will also tell you that you can only get to Lokrum Island as part of one of these day tours. This is absolute nonsense. So, ask around for the best price.
Insider Tip: Lokrum Island Alternative - If you don’t want to take a trip over to Lokrum Island, but still want to enjoy the shade of the trees somewhere away from the crowds, you might be wondering what to do in Dubrovnik instead. A great option is to visit Park Gardac. It’s located to the west of the Old City walls. Up a hill and away from the crowds it does offer a break from the heat and the hordes of people. There are some nice vantage points along the cliff face here for great photos looking back over Dubrovnik Old Town and the Fort.
Other beaches near Dubrovnik
If you’re wanting to enjoy a beach, without jumping on a boat, then just south of the Old Town is where you’ll find one of Dubrovnik’s popular spots; Banje Beach. From this beach, you will have a fabulous view of the Harbour and city walls, however, it’s worth noting during the peak summer months, this beach also gets packed, if you’re after a more tranquil beach, stick to the ones on Lokrum island.
Another option is Sveti Jakov Beach. This hidden bay is located to the east of the Old Town of Dubrovnik although it’s about 30-40 minutes from the Old Town. Head out past Banje Beach, and keep following the road, keeping the sea to your right-hand side.
Related Article: Dubrovnik & Lokrum Island In Pictures
Day 1 – Evening
Srd Hill & The Dubrovnik Cable Car – No worthy itinerary for Dubrovnik would be complete without a trip up to Srd Hill. One of the best times to go up the Dubrovnik Cable Car is about an hour before sunset during ‘The Golden Hour’.
At this time of day there is still enough light to see Dubrovnik Old Town, then watch the beautiful golden light hitting the rooftops as the sun begins to set. If you wait even longer and you’ll see The Walls of Dubrovnik illuminated as the Old Town lights come on.
To find the cable car station, head out of Dubrovnik Old Town and up the hill to the well signposted Dubrovnik Cable Car. The cable car takes you right to the top of Srd Hill, which is where you’ll find the best vantage point for a sunset over the undeniably best view of Dubrovnik. The ride up takes less than 5 minutes.
Insider Tip: Best view of Dubrovnik Old Town – The official vs the non-official - One of the most iconic and Instagrammable places in Dubrovnik is the view from above. There are the official viewing platforms (the ones with the fencing around them) and then the unofficial ones (the ones out on the rocky outcrops). To find the unofficial ones, just follow the well-trodden dirt paths, out of the back of the restaurant and then around to the shrubland.
If you’re feeling energetic and have the time, you can walk up. It’s a 412-metre climb. IF you decide to walk, the footpath is a well-defined zig-zag path up the face of Srd Hil. The walk is free to do – but you may be pushed for time on this two days in Dubrovnik itinerary unless you are an exceptionally fast hiker.
You could come to a compromise and walk up and get the cable car down or vice versa. If you don’t want to get the cable car, then you can also get a taxi to the top.
At the top, you’ll find Fort Imperial as well as a museum. You can also do the sunset zipline experience followed by a glass of wine, or go on the 4×4 off-road buggy safari!
This is also where the bar and restaurant are located, although, if you plan on eating here, book in advance, especially at peak times. If not, order a drink and watch the sunset while admiring the view.
The restaurant and bar are attached to the Cable Car station, and offer stunning views of Dubrovnik Old City, Lokrum Island and the surrounding areas; on a clear day, you can see up to 60km (37miles) and see the mountains of Herzegovina.
Restaurant Recommendation: Veggie & Vegan food in Dubrovnik
When you’re finished with the panoramic view, take the cable car ride back down to the Dubrovnik Old City. There’s plenty of choice in Dubrovnik for food, however, being a vegetarian, I’m always on the hunt for great places to eat with delicious veggie and vegan menu options.
I LOVED a place called Nishta, a cute little restaurant with pretty colourful tiles and décor with a tasty and healthy menu that changes daily. The food is freshly prepared and perfect to get a vegetable fix. One thing I found with the cuisine in Dubrovnik is that it’s very carb and seafood-heavy; I’m a fan of neither! Nishta this ticked all my boxes for something fresh and healthy. You’ll find this fabulous restaurant on Prijeko Street.
Great Bar Suggestion in Dubrovnik
To finish the first day of your Dubrovnik 2 day itinerary, it’s certainly worth wandering the streets just after dark to see it lit up. Take a walk around the city both inside and outside of the city walls to see them illuminated. If you’re not comfortable walking around on your own at night, or wondering where to find the best parts of the city illuminated at night, you can join a Dubrovnik at night tour.
If you’re looking for a great place to drink, then head to Buza Bar. This unique bar is built into the rocks and overlooks the sea. Take a jacket as the sea breeze can get chilly, but the views are fantastic. From the outside, it doesn’t look obvious that this is a bar, however, look for the pretty cute doorway along Crijevićeva ul. 9.
Book Tickets: Dubrovnik By Night Guided Tour
Dubrovnik Itinerary - Day 2
Morning
Walk the Old City Walls of Dubrovnik – Your second day starts early again (sorry) with one of the top things to do in Dubrovnik; the city wall walk. This is also a must for your Dubrovnik bucket list. The gates for the Dubrovnik city wall walk open at 8 am but people start queuing to buy tickets and to get onto the walls by 7.30 am! It’s certainly worth getting a skip the line ticket and bypassing the queue.
Another reason to do the city wall walk early in the day is to avoid the heat of the sun (especially if you’re visiting during July and August), aside from the towers, there is very little in the way of shelter – hint; take a cap or hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Insider Tip: You’ll find that most people are queuing at Pile Gate, and this is where they start the wall walk. Instead, start at the Ploce Gate, fewer people start here AND you get to be on the much more interesting side of the City Walls Walk with all the towers and turrets. Do it before the masses get there, and also because of the one-way system, do it thoroughly as you will not be able to come back to it.
The City Wall Walk has a one-way system, it goes in an anti-clockwise direction to keep the flow of people steady. Also, KEEP YOUR TICKET! – I’ll explain why in a minute.
The walls feature five bastions, fourteen square towers and two round towers. You will probably want at least a couple of hours here to see everything. Make sure you climb the tallest of the towers; the Micenta Tower. Being the highest point on the wall walk it has the best views.
To find out more about the walls and their history, as well as information about all the buildings you will see from up here it’s worthwhile booking a Dubrovnik City Walls walking tour which includes your entry fee and an official guide.
Skip the Line Tickets: Dubrovnik City Walls
Visit Fort Lovrijenac – The Dubrovnik City Wall Walk will take about 2 hours, depending on how many times you stop to take photos! As the morning goes on you’ll notice the influx of other tourists and your once clear view of the wall and now shared with a multitude of other people. Time to make a move.
Head back through the Old Town and start the fairly steep climb the hill to the west of the Old Town walls and up to Fort Lovrijenac. The 11th-century fortress, Lovrijenac Fortress is also known as the St. Lawrence Fortress. On the way up, look back to see Dubrovnik from across the water. Take a stroll along the shoreline on the way up to the Fortress for the cute little door in the rock.
You know I mentioned earlier about keeping your Dubrovnik City Wall Walk ticket, here’s why; Fort Lovrijenac is free to enter when you show your Dubrovnik Wall Walk ticket. Bargain! If you lost your ticket, you’ll have to buy another ticket to enter. Before you enter the fortress, look above the door. You’ll see an inscription carved in the stone: “Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro” which translates to ‘Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold of the world’.
To reach the fortress and for the best views of Dubrovnik, climb up the 175 steps. On the upper level, you’ll find canons and a tiny chapel, plus some of the famous Dubrovnik resident cats lounging about.
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If like me, you’re a Ruin Junkie with a bit of a thing for ancient UNESCO walled cities, then you’d adore the walled city of Segovia in Spain. It not only boasts an ancient wall, but also an Aqueduct, Cathedral and Castle. Of course, you won’t do it on this trip, but why not take a look and add it to your Europe bucket list?
Day 2 - Afternoon
Visit Dubrovnik’s fabulous Museums, Palaces and Cathedrals – With this Dubrovnik itinerary, 2 days gives you enough time to see a couple of the better museums. Most of the museums are indoors, so if you’re not a fan of the heat, these can offer a pleasant respite from the heat of the afternoon.
You’ll be spoilt for choice as to which museum or monastery you visit, however, some of the better ones are;
- Rector’s Palace – If you’re only going to visit one museum, then make sure this is it. The Rectors palace is historically one of the most important buildings in Dubrovnik. A new Rector was elected each month, by the Great Council, to represent the republic. During this month in seat, the Rector wasn’t allowed to leave the palace at any point except for government business. Inside the Rector’s Palace today you’ll find the Cultural History Museum.
- Sponza Palace-Historic Archives – I mentioned earlier in this article the array of uses this building had. The old customs house, today houses archives of the city, this is also where you can see the original 16th-century mechanism that controls the town bell and clock. The outside of the building is incredibly pretty, if you look closely, you will find a carving in Latin that translates to ‘Our weights do not permit cheating or being cheated. When I measure the commodities the Lord measures with me’ which dates back to the times when it was a customs house.
- Sponza Palace-Historic Archives – I mentioned earlier in this article the array of uses this building had. The old customs house, today houses archives of the city, this is also where you can see the original 16th-century mechanism that controls the town bell and clock. The outside of the building is incredibly pretty, if you look closely, you will find a carving in Latin that translates to ‘Our weights do not permit cheating or being cheated. When I measure the commodities the Lord measures with me’ which dates back to the times when it was a customs house.
- Franciscan Church and Monastery & The Old Pharmacy – Located opposite the Big Onofrio’s Fountain just off the Stradun. The Franciscan Monastery features an incredibly photogenic cloister. It’s also where you’ll find the third oldest pharmacy in Europe. Shockingly, it’s still in use.
- Franciscan Church and Monastery & The Old Pharmacy – Located opposite the Big Onofrio’s Fountain just off the Stradun. The Franciscan Monastery features an incredibly photogenic cloister. It’s also where you’ll find the third oldest pharmacy in Europe. Shockingly, it’s still in use.
- Dubrovnik Cathedral / Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin – Located just a few metres from the Rector’s Palace is the Dubrovnik Cathedral. If you have an interest in religious treasures and relics, then the treasury inside the Dubrovnik cathedral houses 132 religious artefacts dating from the 11th to the 19th centuries.
- Dominican Monastery – Dominican Monastery is located to the east of the city close to the Ploce gate. This is the one I mentioned earlier with the adorable stars leading up to it. If you didn’t go inside yesterday, then head in here today. It has a stunning cloister as well as artefacts linked to the cultural side of Dubrovnik’s history.
If you’re not interested in visiting museums, then check out the alternative itinerary below for Cavtat. You can jump to the section by clicking here.
Related Article: 16 Fabulous Day Trips From Dubrovnik
Day 2 - Evening
Sunset Kayak Tour – So, you’ve seen Dubrovnik from the inside, from the walls and from above. Now is the perfect time to complete the set and see the Old Town of Dubrovnik viewed from the water! On this 2 days in Dubrovnik itinerary, you’ll be heading out in a kayak to see the sun setting over the iconic city.
The best way to do this and nicely complete your Dubrovnik itinerary is to opt for a sunset tour of Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik City Walls by Kayak. There are few Kayak companies located just outside the Walls of Dubrovnik offering tours that go throughout the day, but one of the best options is the sunset tour.
The route takes you out of a small bay, around the outside of the city, across to Lokrum Island (remember from earlier, it’s only 600m from the mainland), in and out of little caves, around Lokrum Island. Watch out for a spot of ‘sausage spotting’ as you row past the nudist beach before finally ending up at a secluded cave beach, only accessible by sea, before heading back to the Old Town for wine.
Check Availability: Sunset Kayaking with Wine
Because the cave beach, where you have a break, is only accessible via the sea, it’s only you and the small group you’re kayaking with. Here you can opt to chill on the beach or mingle with the group, although you could opt to swim while or try your luck at cliff jumping!
After some time on the secluded cove, you’ll row back to the mainland. As you do this, you’ll get to see the sun setting over the Old City of Dubrovnik. Once you’re back onto the mainland, the wine starts flowing as you chill and chat in the cool dusky air of the harbour, with new friends from the trip. This is a fantastic way to end 2 days in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
I highly recommend this 3-Hour Sunset Kayaking Tour with Snack and Wine (this is the tour I did)
Alternatively, if you don’t want to do the sunset tour by kayak, but still experience the coves around Lokrum and the city walls from the water, then this you might like this alternative option of a sunset cruise with dinner.
More Time in Dubrovnik? Two Day-Trip Options
Visit the Fishing Village of Cavtat
A trip to nearby Cavtat can be a great option if you have three or four days in Dubrovnik, or you didn’t like the suggestion for the afternoon of day 2, where I recommended visiting some of Dubrovnik’s museums and palaces.
As an additional activity on this guide to Dubrovnik, head to one of the nearby fishing villages; Cavtat is the closest. This is also a great option if you have a few hours to kill, such as waiting for a flight (it’s close to the airport), or even if you just find the bustle of Dubrovnik Old City a bit too much.
Being only 18.5km from Dubrovnik, it takes about 20 minutes by car/ taxi to get to the seriously cute fishing village of Cavtat.
There are numerous things to see and do in Cavtat. Historically, Cavtat was a fishing village and in contrast to nearby Dubrovnik, still has some of this laid-back charm. Pretty galleries and a string of water edge restaurants make this a great place to head for a bit of relaxation. Tree-clad promenade skirts around the peninsula and there are plenty of spots to get a sun lounger.
One great little find in Cavtat was the bakery Peco, selling THE biggest vanilla custard doughnuts I have ever seen. They also do loads of other freshly prepared bread-based products, delicious sandwiches and sweet treats to take out or eat in. It’s worth a visit to Cavtat for the bakery alone!
Getting to Cavtat is easy. Naturally, by taxi is the quickest. However, if you need to use public transport to get there, take the Number 10 bus from near the Dubrovnik Cable Car. The bus takes 20-40 minutes (depending on the time of day) and drops you right in the centre of Cavtat. There are 2 buses every hour.
Another way to do the Dubrovnik to Cavtat journey is by boat. This is by far the longest way to do the journey; it takes approximately an hour, BUT the payoff is that it’s the most scenic way. You can buy single or return journeys from the ticket booths at the harbour in Dubrovnik or Cavtat. Boats only run between April to November and arrive/depart from the old port of Dubrovnik to Cavtat harbour.
Dubrovnik to Montenegro Day Trip
One of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik is to Kotor, Montenegro. Being only a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, it’s a great option to explore some other Balkan countries.
The city of Kotor is located in the divinely photogenic Bay of Kotor. It’s been dubbed ‘little Dubrovnik’ and features a similar array of maze-like narrow cobbled passages. Just like Dubrovnik, Kotor is also home to hundreds of cats who you’ll find lounging about in the alleys, on steps, or sprawled out in the sunshine. Again, like the cats in Dubrovnik, they are tame enough to get close to and photograph.
Similarly to Dubrovnik, the walled city of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you can whittle away a few hours exploring the stunning Venetian buildings on foot, taking an energetic hike up the hills, stopping off to admire views, one of the best views is from the Castle of San Giovani.
This is an easy day trip from Dubrovnik, unless you hire a car for the day, or want to try out the public bus service, the most efficient way to visit Montenegro from Dubrovnik is by an organised tour.
Where are the best places to stay in Dubrovnik?
There are so many options for places to stay during your Dubrovnik two day itinerary. There’s so much choice that it can be overwhelming to know where to stay in Dubrovnik. Accommodation in Dubrovnik ranges from budget to luxury.
This Dubrovnik guide has been designed without the use of a car, so each of these recommendations are close to the main things to see. As a general rule, if you stay within the city walls, you’ll pay a premium compared to if you stay just outside of the Old Town.
Here are my top recommendations;
Luxury Accommodation - 5* Royal Blue Hotel
- Adult exclusivity
- Infinity Pool & Spa
- Beachfront Location
Boutique Accommodation - 4* Dominus Little Palace
- Central Location
- Garden or Mountain view
- Stunning Decor
Comfort Accommodation - Room Bruna
- Excellent Location
- Private Balcony
- Top Reviewed
FAQ & Travel Tips for This Dubrovnik itinerary
Where is Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is a city located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It’s one of the most southern cities in Croatia and makes up part of the Balkan States, with great access to neighbouring destinations including Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina in the south, and to the north of Croatia, Slovenia.
How do I get from Dubrovnik Airport to the Old Town?
The cheapest option is to book a shuttle coach to transfer between Dubrovnik airport and Dubrovnik city centre. Coaches leave approximately 30 minutes after each flight arrival and drop off in either the Old Town of Dubrovnik or at the main bus station in Gruž.
If you’re a bigger group and don’t want to wait for the shuttle or after the more convenient option, then book a private transfer to get from Dubrovnik Airport direct to your hotel door.
When is the best time to visit Dubrovnik?
The city is located next to the gorgeous blue waters of the Adriatic, blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate during the summer and mild, yet bright-skied winters. Because of this, you can visit Dubrovnik all year round.
If you’re wondering what is the weather in Dubrovnik like, then you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s warm summer and mild winters. If you’re purely after the hottest weather, then the best time to visit Dubrovnik is from late April through to October, with the warmest months being June through to August. However, the hottest months also coincide with the height of tourist season, with the peak time for crowds as well as inflated prices.
If you want to take advantage of good weather, fewer crowds and shoulder season prices then plan to go to Dubrovnik between May and June, and then between September and October.
How many days should I spend in Dubrovnik?
If you’re asking yourself how many days to spend in Dubrovnik? It all depends on your travel style. This 48 hour Dubrovnik itinerary packs in a lot of things in a short space of time. If you prefer to travel slower, then complete this itinerary over several days instead. This will give you a more leisurely Dubrovnik city break. Even if you had a full week in Dubrovnik you’d be hard pushed to run out of things to do, especially as there are a whole load of great day trips from Dubrovnik too.
If you’re in the planning stages of your trip and not sure how many days in Dubrovnik you should allocate, then you could easily spend a lot longer than just two days in Dubrovnik. This will give you the chance to get under the skin of the city, however, it is possible to see all of the major landmarks in Dubrovnik in two days.
What are the best day trips from Dubrovnik?
There are numerous great day trips from Dubrovnik, both inside Croatia as well as in neighbouring countries. Here are some great options for day tours from Dubrovnik.
What are the most famous landmarks in Dubrovnik?
If you’re just interested in finding out what to do in Dubrovnik in 2 days, then jump to this section here where I write a list of the top things to see, or you could download this checklist.
So, what is Dubrovnik known for? Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the stunning city walls and then, of course, Game of Thrones.
You’ll also find an abundance of grand and ornate buildings which ooze history and the famous city wall walk which encapsulates the UNESCO listed Historical Centre. If you’re still not sure what to do in Dubrovnik in two days, then there’s an abundance of places near to Dubrovnik to explore.
I'm visiting Croatia as an extended trip, for Dubrovnik how many days should I allow?
If you’re wondering how many days do you need in Dubrovnik, well, the answer is that you can see the highlights of Dubrovnik in one day. However, you’ll be rushed. As a minimum, I would recommend two days, however, you could easily spend longer. If you can spend 72 hours in Dubrovnik, then there are numerous day trips to take from the city.
One great thing with this 2-day itinerary, Dubrovnik is a fairly compact city, so you can easily see the best of the city within a small amount of time. If you were only able to do a Dubrovnik one day trip, then the walls and the historical centre are the must-see things. There’s are so many things to see in Dubrovnik, outside Old Town and further away so you could plan to spend a week here and still have lots to do.
What language do they speak in Dubrovnik?
The official language for the Croatians is Serbo-Croatian. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and attractions, and even in the slightly less visited places, the locals knew a little English.
Is Dubrovnik safe?
On the whole, Croatia, like most of Europe, is an incredibly safe destination. However, as with all major cities, be careful of pickpockets in busy areas. In this 2 days in Croatia guide, all the locations are central, so will have the most police presence. However, it’s also worth investing in an anti-theft bag to keep your belongings safe. Locking valuables in your room and being aware of where high-value items, such as mobiles and cameras are. These two here are great options to go for.
Check Amazon for PU Leather Anti Theft Bag
Check Amazon for USB Charging Anti Theft Backpack
What’s the best way to explore Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is best explored on foot. The historical centre of Dubrovnik, within the Old City Walls, it’s compact and pedestrianised. There are a lot of steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
Outside of the centre, everywhere else is easily accessed by public transport such as bus and boat. You will not need a car for this 2-day itinerary Dubrovnik is very easy to get around.
Where can I find a map of Dubrovnik?
Not sure where to find everything I’ve mentioned in this article? then check out this Dubrovnik, Croatia map. Click here to download it.
What currency do they use in Dubrovnik?
Currently, the currency in Croatia is the Kuna. The country joined the EU in 2013 but as yet has not adopted the Euro. There is talk of the country joining the Eurozone. However, some hotels and tourist attractions will accept the Euro.
Top Tips for visiting Dubrovnik - Visiting Dubrovnik in 48 Hours
- Make sure you’re wearing a comfortable pair of shoes with grippy soles. Although you’re in the city, the floor is often smooth and polished (it gleams in the sunlight). Some parts of the city are uneven with gravel or stone floors. Dubrovnik also has plenty of steps, so be prepared for some serious leg work at times.
- If you want the easy option to see the main highlights while getting some data and insights into the history of Dubrovnik, then book one of the Dubrovnik Old Town guided walking tours.
- If you are planning on staying a bit longer, then it might be worthwhile taking advantage of the Dubrovnik City Pass which gives you unlimited use of public transport and entry to loads of the city’s top attractions.
- Dubrovnik tourist information Offices – a great place to pick up local information and will give the low-down on all the must-do in Dubrovnik. You’ll find the main office is at Brsalje 5, which is close to Pile Gate as well as a smaller one close to the ferry port.
- Money-Saving and Eco Tip – The tap water in Dubrovnik is perfectly fine to drink, so save your money and do your bit for the planet and refill at the quirky Onofrio fountains dotted about the city. There is a huge one near the main Wall Walk ticket office.
Final Notes on 2 days in Dubrovnik Croatia
Hopefully, this Dubrovnik itinerary 2 days guide has answered everything you need to know, from what to see in Dubrovnik in 2 days, getting around, where to stay and some insider tips to help you plan your best trip ever. What are you most looking forward to seeing on your 2 days in Dubrovnik trip? You can download a quick reference guide to this article to keep for offline viewing.
If there is anything I didn’t mention, then comment in the section below and I’ll try to answer it.
Staying in the country for a bit longer? Then why not check out these other useful articles.
- Read more inspirational articles about travel in Croatia here.
- Interested in doing a day trip from Dubrovnik, or small group tours in Croatia.
- Planning your trip? then take a look at these travel tips and resources here.
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If you found this article useful, or know someone who’s wondering how to spend 2 Days in Dubrovnik, Croatia, then please like and share or pin it for future reference.
Amber
14 Jul 2018I love this post so much. There’s so much to pack in while in Dubrovnik. Thanks for sharing
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
14 Jul 2018You’re welcome, I’m glad you enjoyed the post 🙂
Claire
14 Jul 2018This is so useful thanks! I am heading to Dubrovnik in August and this is just what I needed! Great post 🙂
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
14 Jul 2018Awww, thank you, talk about perfect timing then! I’m glad this post was useful for you 🙂
Sherrie Fabrizi-Allbritten
14 Jul 2018Loved your post! Could not stop myself from pinning several of your photos- so beautiful. One day I hope to have a holiday there myself! Will keep your itinerary book marked 🙂
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
14 Jul 2018Awww that’s awesome thank you. I’m so glad you liked the pictures, I have loads more that I took which I didn’t put into this post (I was a little bit trigger happy!). I’m doing a separate post, just pure pictures, in a photo album soon to link to this itinerary based post, so do please come back soon to see it 🙂
Dubrovnik boat charter
12 Apr 2019Cool pictures and amazing shots taken. I like the angles where you put the efforts to take paranormal shots. Also the site is rather medieval and the well preserved as well.
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
24 Apr 2019Hi 🙂 thanks for reading and the comment regarding my photos. I’m certainly an experiemntal photographer and don’t claim to be a professional on any level. I just enjoy taking photos. Becki x
connie
1 Aug 2019Very useful post…we are going to Croatia in september and our time is limited, so this is very helpful.
Beautiful pictures!!! What kind of camera did you use?
Thanks!
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
1 Aug 2019Hi Connie, thanks for your message, I’m glad you found the article useful 🙂 With regards to the pictures, they are either from a Samsung S7, a GoPro
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
1 Aug 2019…grrre, accidentally hit reply before finishing.
…so a GoPro Hero 4, or a compact camera which is a Panasonic LUMIX, TZ80. Nothing professional in terms of set up either, just a selfie stick, or a makeshift tri-pod from whatever I can see around me, sometimes I ask someone to take a picture for me, but often the picture they take isn’t so good ??? solo traveller problems.
Hope you have a great time in Dubrovnik, it’s a beautiful city.x
amannoug
17 Sep 2019Among all the other posts, while planning a trip to Paris, Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar and Prage, this is the best one that I have found! Thanks a tonne! It’s very informative and a nice read.
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
17 Sep 2019Thank you for the lovely comment, I’m so glad you found it useful. When are you planning your trip?
Matija - Dubrovnik Boat
29 Apr 2021Hello Becki, I am happy that you got the chance to visit Dubrovnik and enjoyed everything that our city has to offer.
When you visit Dubrovnik again, let us know and we’ll show you beautiful Elaphiti islands near Dubrovnik with stunning scenery, beaches, sea caves, coves, restaurants and lounge bars.
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
1 Jun 2021Thank you for your great comment. I certainly want to come back to Dubrovnik one day, and in particular to sail around the Dalmatian Coast. I’ll keep you updated when I’m back in the area and we can talk about a tour.
Lerato
3 Jul 2021Dubrovnik seems like such an amazing place. I love how detailed this guide is, it will in come in handy for someone whose never been to the city like me.
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
3 Jul 2021Thanks for the great comment. I hope you make it to Dubrovnik one day, it’s a stunning city.
Elena Pappalardo
3 Jul 2021I will be going to Dubrovnik in the near future, so this was super helpful! Lokrum island looks incredible as well – thanks for also including an alternative!
Becki from Meet Me In Departures
3 Jul 2021I’m glad this is useful for you, I hope you have a great time in Dubrovnik 🙂
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