Even though Dubrovnik became one of the World’s most luxorios IT places, there are still plenty of cheap (or free) things you can do while here. You don’t need to own a yacht or spend a fortune to have a good time in Dubrovnik. Thanks to amazing weather, a clean blue sea, rich culture and our historical heritage we have so much to offer even if you’re on the budget.
1. Dubrovnik city walls. Ask anyone what should be the first thing to do while here and this will definitely be the first thing they say. Yep, it can get pretty crowded but it’s popular for a good reason. You will need at least an hour to walk almost 2 KM loop. Charge your cameras because the view is absolutely breathtaking. Some local’s advice? Go early to avoid the crowds and hot temperatures. Also, don’t forget your water bottles! Admission for individuals is 120 kn.
2. Walk, walk, walk! This one is 100% free. Explore the old city, its numerous little streets and secret places. What’s a better way to get to know a new place than to get lost in it? Ditch your tour group for a day and explore Dubrovnik by yourself. You will be surprised what you can find without a tour guide and a busy activities schedule. When you get tired, sit down on the warm stone, relax and enjoy the view. We are sure you will find something interesting to watch no matter where you find yourself.
3. Explore the local beaches. For example – beach Banje. This divine beach is located not more than an eye wink of the old city and it’s offering a heavenly view. Take a plunge in Dubrovnik’s warm crystal clear sea and relax your body & soul.
4. Get a bergain ice-cream! In Rome you would pay a fortune for it, but here shops on the main street, Stradun, provide up to 50 flavours for around 2 euros! As an ice-cream addict, I can guarantee; Dubrovnik’s ice-cream is probably the best one you’ll ever have.
5. Visit the open-air market in the Old Town. This is a great way to start your day in Dubrovnik. Here, you can pick up the fresh stuff and then settle in the corner of the square in small coffee shop for your morning coffee and newspapers. Gundulić Square offers organic seasonal fruit and vegetables mostly grown in the fileds just outside the town, mostly Konavle region. Beside that, you can find localy produced goods like dried lavender, aromatic oils, home-made brandies, beautiful embroidery and many other authentic stuff. You should get up pretty early bacause the market opens every morning and it closes in the afternoon.
6. Visit Elafiti islands. A day trip to one of the islands in this archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik makes a perfect getaway from the summer crowds. The most popular islands are Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. The islands name originates from the Greek word elafos, meaning deer – in ancient times the islands were populated by the deer. The islands were extremely important due to their location in front of Dubrovnik ;some of the most skilful mariners come from this region.
7. Sit in a caffé. When in Dubrovnik do like Dubrovnik’s people do. And this one is an absolute classic. Croatia’s favorite activity is definitely having a coffee and people watching (we mean- gossiping). We can do this for hours. The little caffés on the main street are perfect for this, but if you’re looking for a cheaper solution check out the smaller streets – you will get equally good service for much less money.
8. Island of Lokrum is a must see. It takes only 10 minutes to get there from the port of Old town. This beautiful island is rich with sea side cliffs, amazing nature (botanical garden & interesting animal species) hidden rocky beaches and many other attractions like The dead sea, old monastery etc . So there are many ways to spend a couple of hours in this beautiful island just opposite of Dubrovnik.
9. The Srđ Hill. Experiencing beautiful Dubrovnik by strolling the streets is one thing. Seeing it in all of its glory from high is another thing. We suggest you to take the short cable car ride up to The Srđ Hill to see Dubrovnik from the above. The views from up there are absolutely breathtaking. If you do it independently, an adult round-trip ticket will cost you 100 kuna. If you want to experience the views from atop Srd. Hill both in the morning and the evening, the Night and Day Package would suit you best at 150 kuna.
10. Go kayaking. Another interesting, yet adventorous way to explore Dubrovnik’s coast. As you cruise along the clear blue sea you circle the Island of Lokrum, explore the small caves, and make a quick stop into a private cave beach along the Dubrovnik coast line called Betina špilja.
Find out more things to do in our Go Dubrovnik Travel Guide.
Photo and story by : Lena Šutić
