Dubrovnik Travel Guide: Old Town Walls and Coastal Escapes

Dubrovnik’s iconic stone ramparts, polished limestone streets (Stradun), and sparkling Adriatic vistas make it a standout destination on the Mediterranean coast.

Exploring the Old Town

1. The City Walls Walk

The uninterrupted 1.94-kilometer walk along the top of Dubrovnik’s medieval fortifications offers stunning views of terracotta rooftops on one side and the deep blue sea on the other.

• Best Timing: Begin right when the walls open at 8:00 AM or two hours before closing to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid tour groups.

2. The Stradun (Placa)

The central pedestrian artery paved in lustrous white limestone, lined with Baroque palaces rebuilt after the catastrophic earthquake of 1667.

3. Fort Lovrijenac

Perched on a 37-meter-high cliff outside the western wall, this historic fortress bears the famous inscription: “Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro” (Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world).

Coastal Escapes & Swimming Spots

• Buža Bar: Accessed via a small hole in the southern city wall, where you can sip cold drinks perched directly on seaside cliffs with swimming access.
• Lokrum Island: A 15-minute passenger ferry from the Old Port takes you to a nature reserve inhabited by peacocks, botanical gardens, and the saltwater “Dead Sea” swimming lake.
• Sveti Jakov Beach: A peaceful pebble beach located 20 minutes’ walk south of the Old Town, offering dramatic sunset views back toward the fortified city.