Dubrovnik Old Town: History, Highlights and What Not to Miss

Dubrovnik's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Walking through its marble streets, you're stepping into a living museum with over 1,400 years of history.

A Brief History

The city of Ragusa, as Dubrovnik was historically known, was founded in the 7th century. For centuries, it was an independent republic and major maritime power, rivaling Venice for dominance in the Adriatic.

The city's famous walls were built between the 13th and 17th centuries and have never been breached. After a devastating earthquake in 1667, much of the city was rebuilt in baroque style, giving us the uniform stone facades we see today.

Must-See Attractions

The City Walls

No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without walking the walls. This 2km circuit offers:

**Stunning views**: Of terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic

**Historical insights**: Towers, fortresses, and defensive features

**Photo opportunities**: Around every corner

**2 hours**: Allow plenty of time to complete the circuit

**Tip**: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

Stradun (Placa)

The main street of Old Town, Stradun is the heart of Dubrovnik. Its polished limestone surface reflects centuries of footsteps. Key features include:

Large Onofrio's Fountain at the western entrance

Small Onofrio's Fountain at the eastern end

The Bell Tower clock

Numerous cafes and shops

Rector's Palace

This Gothic-Renaissance palace served as the seat of government for the Republic of Ragusa. Today it houses the Cultural History Museum with:

Original state rooms

Period furniture and paintings

Historical artifacts

Special exhibitions

Franciscan Monastery

Home to Europe's third-oldest pharmacy (still operating since 1391), this monastery features:

A beautiful 14th-century cloister

A pharmacy museum

Religious art collection

A peaceful garden retreat

The Cathedral

Dubrovnik's baroque cathedral, built after the 1667 earthquake, houses:

Treasury with gold and silver relics

Paintings by Italian masters

The relics of St. Blaise, the city's patron

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, discover these lesser-known spots:

Buza Bars

"Hole in the wall" bars literally cut into the city walls, offering:

Clifftop seating

Swimming access to the sea

Spectacular sunset views

Cash only, no frills service

War Photo Limited

A powerful photography museum documenting armed conflicts around the world. Not a light experience, but deeply moving and important.

Dominican Monastery

Often overlooked in favor of the Franciscan monastery, this 14th-century complex has beautiful cloisters and an impressive art collection.

The Synagogue

One of Europe's oldest Sephardic synagogues, still active and featuring a small museum.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Best Time to Visit

**Early morning (8-9 AM)**: Before cruise ship passengers arrive

**Late afternoon (5-7 PM)**: After day-trippers leave

**Shoulder season**: April-May and September-October for fewer crowds

Getting Around

Everything in Old Town is accessible on foot

No vehicles allowed within the walls

Wear comfortable walking shoes - lots of stairs and uneven surfaces

Avoiding Crowds

Enter through less-used gates (Ploce or Buza)

Explore side streets and stairways

Visit during lunch hours when many tourists are eating

Beyond the Walls

While the Old Town walls encircle the historic core, don't miss:

**Lovrijenac Fortress**: The "Gibraltar of Dubrovnik"

**Mount Srd**: Take the cable car for panoramic views

**Lokrum Island**: A quick ferry ride to a nature paradise

Explore with a Guide

Consider a walking tour to truly understand the history and secrets of the Old Town. Our local guides bring the city's stories to life and know all the hidden corners.

Walking tours are operated by our trusted local partners.