Hotels in Dubrovnik

Find out why you might struggle to stay in the Old Town and discover the hotel hotspots in and around Dubrovnik...

Hotels in the delightful Old Town, the walled section of the metropolis, are in extremely short supply. In fact, there are only two hotels actually within the walls - a five-star hotel named the Pucic Palace and a three-star hotel, the Stari Grad - and there's no car parking. These two hotels are in huge demand, so book early if you wish to stay within the Old Town itself.

Don't despair; there are many fine Dubrovnik hotels to be found outside of the Old Town walls. Hotels that command higher room rates often offer tremendous views from the city out to the Adriatic Sea, where the azure blues are peppered with emerald green islands. 

If you're splashing the cash on your holiday hotel, be sure to get that sea-view room. Some of the international brands can be found in the city area such as Iberostar, Radisson and Hilton. However, the majority of hotels are locally run and managed.

Other areas to consider when staying in Dubrovnik are Lapad, Ploce and Gruz. The Lapad peninsula is dotted with woodland, great beaches and excellent mid-range accommodation. Some parts of the district are mere minutes from the Old Town, while the outer reaches are well served by public transport.

Ploce is on the doorstep of Old Town, and is home to a good range of accommodation, including some very exclusive five-star hotels. Gruz, located to the north of Lapad, is another neighbourhood with a choice of hotels. Here you'll find the port, where huge cruise liners dock, plus bustling markets and the main bus station.

Take a journey through time in the city or escape the summer heat and see another side of Croatia...

Top five attractions

Placa (Stradun)

Dubrovnik's best known street is a must see during a trip to the city. The limestone paving glitters in the sunshine and a cool drink in summer is essential, even if you are surrounded by fellow tourists. The Placa connects the Pile Gate to the Ploce Gate.

City Walls

Another essential stop on your journey through history in Dubrovnik, the ancient wall is the jewel in this city's crown and the views from the top are spectacular. Be sure to stroll at least a small section.

Franciscan Monastery

A beautiful landmark of Dubrovnik, near Pile Gate, there is much to see in this sprawling complex, including an ancient pharmacy.

Boat trips

Escape the heat of the streets in summer and take a trip to one of Croatia's incredible and virtually untouched islands. Mljet is one of the closest and a real holidaymaker favourite.

Beaches

Another way to beat the heat of summer is to hit the beach (Dubrovnik is typically Mediterranean, with temperatures in July and August pushing past 30C). Those in Lapad have white sand and clear waters.

Whatever time of year you plan to visit, Dubrovnik is likely to be planning some sort of party...

Dubrovnik Carnival; February: A typically Mediterranean carnival to help ward off the blues at the start of the year, this event has a whimsical edge, with people in elaborate costumes forming parades around the city's most stunning spots.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival; July and August: The culture of Croatia is celebrated in fine style during this summer-long event that draws crowds to a variety of indoor and outdoor venues. The finale fireworks are extra special.

New Year; December: Be in the Placa (Stradun) to see in the New Year with the locals. It is the place to celebrate and the festivities are unforgettable.