Audio Guide of Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik Old Town is a public space and, as such, it is open 24 hours a day. You can enter on foot through several gates, with Pile Gate and Ploče Gate being the most popular and best connected by transport. Once inside, most of the old town is pedestrian-only.

No, entry to Dubrovnik Old Town itself is free. However, there are attractions inside that do charge admission, such as the famous Dubrovnik Walls (dubrovnik-walls.com) and the Dubrovnik Cable Car (dubrovnikcablecar.com). Be prepared to pay for museums and other historic sites.

To get a good first impression and stroll through the main streets, I recommend at least half a day (4–5 hours). If you want to walk the walls, visit museums, and enjoy a relaxed lunch, the ideal plan is to spend a full day. A day and a half would let you immerse yourself even more deeply in its charm.

Dubrovnik, formerly known as Ragusa, was a powerful maritime republic that competed with Venice while maintaining its independence for centuries. Its cultural wealth and impressive Renaissance and Baroque architecture bear witness to its glorious past, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status and making it a center of Mediterranean history. It is also famous as one of the main filming locations for 'Game of Thrones.'

The best time is from April to early June or from September to October, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds than in peak summer. To avoid the daily rush, try to visit early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) or late in the afternoon, after the cruise ships have departed.

Because of its medieval layout, with many steps and uneven cobbled streets, accessibility can be challenging. However, some main areas such as Stradun, the principal street, are flat. It is recommended to plan specific routes and, if possible, ask at the local tourist office for maps of accessible routes.

Very close by, you can take the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for spectacular panoramic views, or explore Lokrum Island, a short boat ride away, known for its monastery and beaches. Nearby coastal towns such as Cavtat also offer a quieter experience (visit.dubrovnik.hr).

Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot on cobbled streets. Start early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Consider buying the Dubrovnik Card (dubrovnikcard.com) if you plan to visit several paid attractions, as it includes public transport and admission tickets. And do not forget to stay hydrated, especially in summer!