Dubrovnik Attractions – Amazing Self Guided Walking Tour & Map

Croatia, Croatia Day Trips, Croatia Travel Guide, Dubrovnik

Over 40 Dubrovnik Attractions

The historic city of Dubrovnik is a pedestrian only tourist friendly town. It is a fortified town with a strong defense system comprising of towers, walls and gates. These were very effective in protecting the city from domination for centuries. A visit to Old Town Dubrovnik should include Dubrovnik’s many attractions. In addition, a self guided walking tours and a tourist map are available below to assist.

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Things to do including Dubrovnik Attractions

  1. Take the Cable Car to Mount Srd or book a 1/2 days combo walking and cable car tour
  2. Visit the cliffside Buže Bar
  3. Take the Self guided Walking Tour detailed below with the Top Dubrovnik attractions highlighted
  4. Go on the Games of Thrones Self Guided Tour
  5. Take one of 8 Day trips around Dubrovnik, all in Croatia, and visit the Attractions in the nearby villages
  6. Explore over 23 Day trips in Croatia, Montenegro or Bosnia Herzegovnia
  7. Take the Boat from the Old Port to Lokrum Island
  8. Spend some time at the various beaches around Dubrovnik
  9. Walk the top of the Dubrovnik Walls
  10. Take a boat trip from the Old Port to visit islands around Dubrovnik
  11. Attend popular events in the Events Calendar
  12. Check the Travel Guide to Croatia
  13. Explore Croatia using this itinerary that we followed on our trip to Croatia
  14. Book additional Dubrovnik tours with a local guide, these are the most popular:

Dubrovnik Attractions Video

Over 40 Dubrovnik Attractions in the Self Guided Walking Tour
Download the Interactive map or the PDF map

Dubrovnik Attractions
Dubrovnik Attractions – click on map for download options: the Interactive map or the PDF map

1. Scenic Dubrovnik Attractions: Fort Lovrijenac

The 1,000 year old Fort is a breathtaking Dubrovnik attractions in that overlooks the Adriatic Sea from the cliff top. Today, the fort is better known as the Game of Thrones filming location. The Fort can also be hired out for private functions such as weddings. Unlike the other fortresses in Dubrovnik Old Town, the Fort is detached from the City Walls. It provided protection from attacks both by land and/or sea. According to legend, the Venetians planned to build a Fort near Dubrovnik Old Town in order to attack the city.

The Citizens of Dubrovnik Old Town got wind of the Venetian plan. To counter the Venetian plan, they built their own fort in the very same location that the Venetians had planned to build on. When the Venetians landed with supplies to build the Fort, to their surprise they found a fort in “their” spot. The citizens of Dubrovnik Old Town had already built Fort Lovrijenac in that very same spot foiling the Venetian plans.

The plans for the Fort includes a triangular shape that contours the rock that the fort sits on. The narrowest is the highest point and the longest wall looks out towards the Bokar Tower. The Fort overlooks and protects the harbor below and the Kolorina Port.

The walls of the fort were exposed to the sea could have resulted in a potential for a breach by the enemy. As such, the exposed walls are about 12 meters thick (40 ft) as a defense against the enemy’s fire power.

As you enter the fort, note the inscription:
Inscription: NON BENE PRO TOTO LIBERTAS VENDITUR AURO.
Means: Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world.

2. Historic Dubrovnik Attractions: Pile Gate

The Old Town used to have four gates leading to the interior. These were the Pile Gate, the Ploče Gate, the Peskarija Gate and the Ponta Gate. However, two of the gates remained closed due to fears that the cities defenses would be compromised.  During the Austrian rule of Old Town Dubrovnik a gate was opened in the northern section, the Buža Gate. This gate allowed the Austrian soldiers quick access from Dubrovnik Old Town to the tennis courts. These were built in the trenches of the Dubrovnik City Walls.

Interestingly, the Pile Gate comprises of an inner and an outer gate. The outer gate leads to a wooden drawbridge over the City trench. The draw bridge was pulled up each night closing of access to visitors after hours. This provided additional protection to the inhabitants of Old Town Dubrovnik. The key for the draw bridge was in the possession of the Rector. The wooden bridge was eventually replaced by a stone bridge. The Pile gate was the main entrance and led visitors to the main city street, the Stradun. It is one of the Dubrovnik attractions used by almost all the tourist who visit the Old Town.

Places to Stay close to the Pile gate and the Old Town Dubrovnik Walls

  • Old Town Dubrovnik dates back to the 7th century when it was known as Ragusa. It is one of the finest and most preserved medieval city and rivaled Venice, Italy as a trading center. It is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic and a wonderful place to explore. You may want to stay within the Old Town walls of this historic city during your trip. The accommodations in this UNESCO World Heritage Site are in lovely old refurbished buildings with exquisite architectural detailing, however they usually have steps to climb. Accommodations just outside of Old Town Dubrovnik walls are more modern and some are on the beach.
  • Old Town Dubrovnik is a wonderful place to explore, you may want to stay within the Old Town walls during your trip. The accommodations in Old Town are in lovely old refurbished buildings with exquisite architectural detailing, however they usually have steps to climb. Accommodations just outside of Old Town Dubrovnik walls are more modern and some are on the beach.
  • Hotels / apartments in Dubrovnik include:
  • Check here for availability, pricing and booking of recommended hotels, apartments and guesthouses with varying price points in and just outside Old Town Dubrovnik.

The Old Town is traffic free so no cars are allowed. If your accommodations are within Old Town Dubrovnik walls the taxi or private car service will drop you at one of the gates, usually Pile Gate and you will walk into the Old Town. Pile Gate area is very busy hub as the public buses also stop here.

Transportation: Airport and City bus stop

  • The bus stops right outside Pile gate. Most public and private transportation use this area as the drop off and pick up points for Old Town Dubrovnik. Additional information can be found HERE on Dubrovnik airport transfer. General information related to transportation in Croatia is HERE and information related to local buses and stations is HERE.
  • Book here for Airport transfer with shared shuttle bus to/from Dubrovnik airport

3. Old Town Dubrovnik Wall System: “Walking the Walls“

The Old Town Dubrovnik map and self guided tour includes the opportunity to walk on top of the fortified walls. The legend behind building of the walls is related to the builders running out of stones, the basic building material. To solve this problem, each new visitor coming from the Gruž or Pile gate was obligated to bring a stone with them. The stone would be in proportion to their body weight. These stones were then used to complete the City Walls. The City Walls grandeur and preservation has earned Dubrovnik the “Pearl of the Adriatic” title. The walls are 2 km long and between 6-24 meters in height. The Old Town’s many preserved buildings and Dubrovnik’s historic attractions has earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

This was one of my favorite Dubrovnik attractions. You are able to purchase tickets and walk on the walls. It will take about 2 hours to complete the circuit. Walking the walls will showcase many of Dubrovnik attractions from a scenic height. Tickets and entrance for the walls are located at Pile Gate and Ploče Gate entrance. Depending on how long you are in Dubrovnik, you can spend anywhere from 1 day to 3 days visiting Dubrovnik’s Attractions. This includes completing Walking the Walls, completing this self-guided tour and the Games of Thrones self guided tour.

Many of the Forts and Towers below can be accessed as part of the Dubrovnik Walls Walk. The Wall system consists of the Minčeta tower, Revelin Fortress, St Johns Tower and Fort Bokar. You should be able to see these on the Walls Walk. If you skip the Walk, you will still be able to observe these Dubrovnik attractions from street level. From street level, you may be able to climb up a short ways to some of these attractions. However, many of the attractions are gated with chains. 

A Video Tour of the City Walls: Iconic Dubrovnik Attractions

Download a copy of the PDF Dubrovnik Attractions map and the City Wall Walk

4. Minčeta Tower – Tvrđava Minčeta

The Minčeta tower can be accessed as part of the Dubrovnik Wall Walk. Minčeta tower is the one at the far end of the north wall, facing the land. It was completed in 1464 with 750 steep steps to the top of the tower. When we visited, we were able to climb these steep steps, the tower dominates the NW section of Old Town and is the highest Dubrovnik attractions. It is also the most prominent tower protecting the Old Town.  A museum is located in the basement of the tower.

The tower gets is name from the Minčeta family who owned the land on which the tower was built. Originally constructed in 1319 by a local resident Nicifor Ranjina. The tower was damaged in the Bosian war and was fortified after that war in 1461 by Italian architect Michelozzo di Bartolomeo Michelozzi. The fortification was completed by an architect from Zadar, Juraj of Dalmatia. Juraj took over the rebuild as Michelozzo quit because he was not awarded the reconstruction of the Rectors Palace.

5. Upper Corner Tower Foundry Museum (Minčeta Tower)

The Museum can be accessed as part of the Dubrovnik Wall Walk. To access, you will need to descend from Minčeta Tower to this hidden gem. Dubrovnik’s medieval foundry showcases the industrial nature of the citizens of Old Town Dubrovnik.  The production process area was about 600 square metres. It was found largely intact during the excavation process that took place between 2005 to 2008. The foundry (museum) is located at the corner of a playground.

The museum displays a fabulous collection of tools, pincers, keys, and cannonball molds. These items depict the story of the Republic of Ragusa’s firepower capability. The foundry was operating until as late as the 17th century. It was at this time that the 1667 earthquake buried it under the Minčeta Tower. The foundry is difficult to locate. It is in the space between this 1346 tower and Fort Minčeta. While not the most well known of Dubrovnik’s attractions, it is certainly an interesting one displaying the industrious nature of the citizens. The museum entrance is located directly under Fort Minčeta.

6. Authentic Dubrovnik attractions – Church of Holy Savior –Crkva sv. Spas, Church Svet Spaso

The building is located between the Franciscan Monastery and the Pile Gate, next to the City Walls. The original Church was built in 1520 to thank and please the Gods for a non-destructive earthquake. The Church of Holy Savior was completed 8 years after construction began in 1528. Fortuitously the Church was not damaged in the 1667 earthquake. As a result, it stands in its original location and is one of the very few Dubrovnik attractions with its original characteristic and form intact today.

7. Large Onofrio’s Fountain – Fresh Water Supply

Originally, the town’s fresh water supply came from cisterns that collected rainwater from rooftops. A decision by the council was made in 1304 to build a massive cistern. This was built near the Sponga Palace; this cistern was called Spongia and eventually became known as Sponza. However, during low rainfalls and droughts, the cisterns was not able to supply enough fresh water to the city. To solve this issue, it was decided in 1436 that an aqueduct system should be built to ensure a consistent supply of fresh water. Once the aquaduct system was completed, two fountains were built.

The large Onofrio fountain was built in 1438 as part of the water supply system. It connected fresh water from 12km away to the Old Town Dubrovnik. The fountain is the endpoint of the City’s aqueduct system and a great place to fill up your water bottles. Its smaller cousin, the Little Onofrio Fountain is located at the opposite end of the Stradun in Luža Square.

8. Franciscan friary and church

The Franciscans arrived in Dubrovnik around 1234. At that time, they built their monastery outside the Dubrovnik Old Town City Walls. This location is where the current Hilton hotel is located today. When the city was threatened, the Franciscans moved inside Dubrovnik Old Town. They built a monastery inside the walls in 1317 to protect them from being used by their enemies. The new monastery is a huge complex that includes a church, a friary, a library, and the oldest operating pharmacy. The pharamacy is well known and is a popular attractions in Dubrovnik to visit. It is situated on the main street, Stradun, in Old town Dubrovnik.

Construction of the friary took centuries due to the various changes and additions. Unfortunately it was destroyed in the 1667 earthquake. Over the years it has undergone some restoration and rebuild. The 177th century library contains about 200,000 books and 1200 hundred manuscripts. The pharmacy is a famous Dubrovnik attraction as it has been operating since 1317 and is the 3rd oldest in the world. You can find additional information on the architecture and history of the historical center of Dubrovnik, including a visit of the Old Pharmacy at the Franciscan Monastery Museum by booking a 2.5 hour guided tour here.

9. Tourist Office – Information on other Dubrovnik attractions

Close to Pile gate for additional information related to Dubrovnik attractions. There is an official tourist information Office at Brsalje 5, outside the Pile gate. It’s open daily from 8AM to 9PM.

10. Most popular Dubrovnik attractions – Stradun or Placa Street

Dubrovnik’s main throughfare is a marble street stretching 300 meters from Pile gate in the west to Ploče gate in the east and surrounded by renaissance buildings. Originally a marshy channel, it was filled in at the end of the 11th century and then it was paved over in 1468 with limestone and polished to a smooth finish. It is also the location of the Large Onofrio’s fountain to the west and small Onofrio’s fountain to the east. Today it functions as the venue and starting place for parades, festivals and processions. It divides Old Town Dubrovnik between northern and southern halves and was originally created as a trading route. Commonly referred to by two names: Placa or Stradun. Placa is derived from the Greek/Latin word “Platea” meaning “Street” and Stradun is a Venetian term meaning ”big street”.

11. Dubrovnik Synagogue

Historical records, such as a physician’s notes, show that the Jewish population was present in Old Town Dubrovnik as far back as 1326. Interestingly, this document was a job offer by the government to a Jewish physician, who did not accept the position. Most notable is that the religious affiliation of a candidate, is in the form of a job offer and is currently stored in the archives. The archives also contained a ruling from 1407 welcoming the Jewish population in Dubrovnik and offering settlement rights. When the Jewish population was expelled from Spain in 1492, many came to Dubrovnik to seek safety and settle in the Old Town. To continue to practice their faith, they built a Synagogue. 

The baroque style three story Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Europe, second is the one found in Prague. However, it is the oldest one currently in use. There are two tours that explore the Jewish history:

12. Dubrovnik Attractions to take that much needed break -Luža (Loggia) Square

A central meeting place where you can stop at the Onofrio Little Fountain, and visit the Sponza Palace, listen out for the bell tower at noon, take a relaxing break on the steps of St. Blaise Church or do some people-watch at Orlando’s Column. Many of the city’s administration buildings are located here including the Mayors Office and City Administration buildings. Luža Square is also the location of the opening of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival while the adjoining Rectors Palace is used as one of the performance venues.

13. Orlando’s Column

Orlando was a knight who was rumored to be Charlemagne’s nephew. According to tradition, Orlando and his navy saved Dubrovnik from a 15-month Saracen siege in the 9th century. The thankful citizens created this gorgeous column in Orlando’s honor to convey their gratitude. However, we know that this narrative is not genuine and was invented to explain the construction of the knight-column to the general public.

The truth is that Orlando, or Roland as he is known throughout Europe. He was actually used as a symbol of a city which was under the protection of the Hungarian-Croatian King. It was the practice of the time for Hanseatic League cities to create stone monuments to symbolize an alliance. This solidified their allegiance and brought protection from the Hungarian-Croatian kingdom. The column was the location of the public pronouncements, a sort of speaker’s corner with a pulpit. In addition, the column was the location of the public punishments.

14. The Church of St. Blaise– Dubrovnik attractions of religious significance

The church is built in baroque style and is a major tourist attract. St. Blaise (Sveti Vlho), the patron saint of Dubrovnik and previously the guardian of the autonomous Republic of Ragusa. The legend of St. Blaise goes as far back as 971 when the Venetians arrived in Dubrovnik. They arrived on the pretense of resting and getting supplies before heading further east. A citizen of Dubrovnik, Stojko, went to the St Stephen Church and found an old grey haired man named Vlaho (Blaise).

Vlaho (Blaise) asked Stojko to warn the council that the Venetians were about to strike and conquer the city. As a result the city protected itself by closing its gates and manning the defensive walls. The Venetians realized that the people were aware of their plans and continued on without attacking the city. Hence the legend and the citizens honoured Vlaho with the title St Blaise, Patron St of Dubrovnik.

In his honor, the Church of St. Blaise was built in 1715. However, the festival of St. Blaise goes as far back as 972. The Church was damaged in the 1667 earthquake and destroyed in the 1706 fire. The new church was built by a Venetian architect in 1715 on the foundations of a previously damaged Roman medieval church. Today it is one of the most popular venues for a church wedding given its history and unbelievably ornate interior. As such it is a great attraction to visit in Dubrovnik.

15. Rectors Palace

The Rector’s palace is located between the Dubrovnik Cathedral and St Blaise Church. The Palace currently houses the Kulturno-povijesni / Cultural-Historical Museum containing paintings, coats of arms and the original key to the city gates. This Gothic-Renaissance style building was the Seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa from the 14th century to about 1808. It has functioned as the administration building of the Dubrovnik Republic, the Rectors private Chamber and public office, an amoury, a gun powder storage facility, a watch house as well as a prison. Don’t forget to visit the dungeons in the basement and view the inscriptions carved by some of its occupants.  This is a great attraction in Dubrovnik for history and art enthusiasts.

16. Marin Drzic Statue

This Dubrovnik attractions is often overlooked. It is a bronze statue near the Rectors Palace. Marin was a famous playwright specializing in tragic comedies and he was often referred to as the Shakespeare of Dubrovnik. Remember to rub his nose to bring you good luck and a return trip to Old Town Dubrovnik.

17. Small Ornofrio Fountain

The purpose of the Small fountain was to supply the market on the Luža square with water. In addition, an extension was added to supply water to the Rectors place and water from this system can be found in the atrium of the Rectors Palace. This is not only a Dubrovnik attraction, but it also provides fresh water where tourists can fill up their water bottles.

18. Clock Tower

The 102 feet tower is located at the end in Luža Square, at the end of Stradun and right next to the Sponza palace. In this vicinity you will also find Orlando’s Column and Sveti Vlaho Church.

The two bronze statues of the bell strikers, are referred to as zelenci. These are affectionately known as the green twins, Maro and Baro, because of their green patina. They strike the bell tower at noon every day.

19. Sponza Palace (Palača Sponza)

This is one of the few buildings in Old Dubrovnik that survived the 1667 earthquake. The16th century palace currently functions as a state archine holding over 100,000 documents, some of which have been in storage since 1022. It gets its name from the “spongia”, which is the “spot where rainwater was collected” and flowed into a cistern. As with other buildings and attractions in Old Town Dubrovnik, it has served as various different functions over the millennia. This includes a customs office, a bonded warehouse, an armoury, a mint, the treasury, a bank, and a school. At one time it was also a cultural center for the Republic of Ragusa and the location of the literary academy.  One of its functions was that of a meeting place and trading center attested by the inscription on the arch:

  • Fallere nostra vetant et falli pondera. Meque pondero cum merces ponderat ipse deus.
  • “Our weights do not permit cheating. When I measure goods, God measures with me.” (Referring to the measuring scales used by traders involved in commerce)

Sponza palace plays an important role at the opening ceremony of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Actors impersonating various historical figures like the Rector and the members of the Council greet and entertain the public from the upper porch of the Sponza palace.

20. Buže gate – Dubrovnik Attractions, one of several gates

The gate is the northern entrance to the old town from Iza Garda street and it will lead you to the Stradun. The gate was a short route from the officer’s quarters in the city to a tennis court. The tennis court was built in a covered moat. Because of its purely utilitarian purpose, the gate lacks ornate distinctions and is very simple in character. It is the simplest of the Dubrovnik attractions. Because of its simplicity, this gate is called Buže; Buže meaning “Hole”. Interestingly, it seems it’s most useful purpose was the heavy usage by the Austrians in 1908 to get to the tennis court.

21. Revelin Fortress

The Revelin Fort strengthened Old Town Dubrovnik defense system from the east and was built outside of the Dubrovnik City Walls. The entire eastern defense system also included the Ploče Gate. The original lower half of the Revelin Fort was constructed in 1463. It was enlarged and fortified in 1253. The Fortress itself consists of three entrances surrounded by a moat and with the sea on the three sides as seen from the top of the fortress. Today, this Dubrovnik attractions has a very modern purpose; it functions as: a venue for performances, a night club and the main floor of the Fort is the location of the Archeological Museum.

22. Ploča Gate, Vrata od Ploča – Dubrovnik Attractions, one of several gates

The Ploče  gate was built at the end of the 14th centaury and was the main entrance to the Old Town from the eastern end. The gate consists of an inner and outer gate. The inner Ploče gate was once named after the nearby church and called Gate of St Luka. The entrance leads to the main Luža Square on the Stradun. The gate is easily identified as it is adorned with the statute of Dubrovnik’s Patron Saint, Sveti Vlaho, St. Blaise. As with the Pile gate, the Stone bridge of today was originally a wooden drawbridge.  The bridge was pulled up every night. When it was pulled up it closed off access to Dubrovnik Old Town. This action protected the city from unwanted night time visitors or a surprise attack.

Adjoining and behind the outer gate is another one of Dubrovnik’s attractions, the Revelin Fortress. The Revelin fortress is built into the gates outer section and was a lookout point. Today the stone bridge leads visitors to Luža Square and Stradun.

23. Dominican Monastery – Dominikanski samostan – Crkva Sv. Dominika

The gothic-renaissance style monastery can be found at the northeastern side of the Dubrovnik Old Town. It looks adjacent to the Fortress Wall and along the City walls. As such it is in contrast to the Franciscan monastery as the Dominican Monastery looks like a fortress. The monastery was constructed in the 14th century however, the high bell tower was built in the 18th century. As with other Dubvronik attractions, its purpose has changed over the decades. It has also functioned as an army warehouse during the French occupation. Today the monastery also has a museum that houses the art collection of the Dominican friars including paintings by Titian and other masters.

24. and 25. Old Port and Porat Dubrovnik Attractions

The pier was built in the 15th century and is still in use today. Dubrovnik’s Old Port comprises of two breakwaters, the Porporela found in from St. John’s Fortress and Kaše breakwater built in the 15th century which is perpendicular across the bay. In the area was the Arsenal where ships were built. The citizens from Dubrovnik were known for their ship building expertise. During the building process, the building was bricked off to protect the ship building process from spies. Once the ship was built, the brick wall was demolished, and the ship was launched.

The Old Port is still in use with fishing boats as well as private yachts accessing the old harbor. You can also catch the boat here to Lokrum and other islands in the surrounding area. The area is a popular promenade teeming with tourists. In addition, the Arsenal has been transformed into a restaurant with great views of the Adriatic Sea. It has a nautical and ship building theme that pays tribute to its history.

Framing the old port is the Rectors Palace, the Revelin Fortress as well as he Old Tower of St. Luke. The St Luke Tower is in the oldest part of the city.

26. Fort St. Ivana, Fort St John

An imposing fortress that protected the eastern edge of the Old Town and defended the city from invaders from the south. It is sometimes to referred to as the Mulo Tower. The Fort can also be accessed as part of the Dubrovnik Wall Walk.  It was linked to the St Luke Fort which protected the city from invaders from the north. Original construction began around 1346 with modifications continuing until the 16th century.

This was a strong defense system that was further fortified with the integration of the old Fort Gundulić, the Dock Port/Fort and their respective bastions. The newly merged complex was completed in 1557 and was renamed Fort St. John. It was an unrivalled defense complex, with many cannons. Today only a few canons remain as may were taken to Vienna by the Austrians during the Austrian occupation. Today Fort St John is the home of the Aquarium and the Maritime Museum. It used to house the gun powder and is a Dubrovnik attractions that can be accessed as part of the City Walls Walk.

  • 27. Dubrovnik Maritime Museum includes atlases, maps, navigational instruments, paintings and documents related to maritime trade and tradition.
  • 28. Dubrovnik Aquarium is located on the ground floor of the fortress and displays the fauna and fish specimens found in the 27 basins in the area.

29. The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary – (The Cathedral)

Legend has it that Richard the Lionheart was shipwrecked on Lokrum Island on his way back from the crusades in 1192. To express his gratitude to the people, he wanted to build a church on the very same spot where his life saved. He was convinced by the local council to build the church in Old Town Dubrovnik instead. The church was built in the 13th centaury and severely damaged in the earthquake of 1667. It has undergone repairs, restorations and rebuilds over the decades.

The restoration of 1981 unearthed an older 7th centaury church beneath the current church. This discovery suggested that Dubrovnik is much older than suggested and that an urban city existed as far back as the 7th century. The Treasury of the Cathedral houses relics and antiquities from the 13th to the 18th century including priceless paintings including the head and arm of the patron St of Dubrovnik, St Blaise.

30. Gunduliceva Poljana Market Square and van Gundulić Statue
Dubrovnik Market Attractions

The narrow street opposite the Rector’s Palace opens into the Gundulić market square. The market is popular with the locals, where you can find locally grown fruit and vegetable market. The market closes at noon and sometimes Grain is thrown out for the local birds. In the square is the location of the sculptor Ivan Gundulić ‘s statue, a famous 17th century local poet from the local Gundulić family. Stroll the stalls of the market on your way to visit one of the most well know Dubrovnik attractions, the Jesuit Stairs. The starting point for the “Walk of Shame” in the Game of Thrones.

31. Jesuit Staircase
Dubrovnik GoT Attractions

This baroque style staircase was built in 1662 under the supervision of the Jesuit Serafino Fabrini from Rome. All construction stopped as a result of the 1667 earthquake and restarted in 1699 by Jesuit architect and painter, Andrea Pozzo of Trent. It was completed in 1738 by roman architect Pietro Passalacqua. The stairs are located just off Gunduliceva Poljana (market) and they connect the Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola and 17th-century Jesuit College with the market place below. It is a popular Dubrovnik attractions because it is the same staircase made famous in the Walk of Shame in the Game of Thrones. If you have been to Rome, you may recognize similarities with the famous staircase from the Piazza di Spagna to the church Trinità dei Monti.

32. Crkva sv. Ignacij – St. Ignatius Church

The infamous Season 5 “Walk of Shame” scene took place on the Jesuit Staircase that ascends from Gundulić Square to St. Ignatius Church, honoring the wishes of Jesuit Marin Gundulić, from the prominent Gundulić family, who wanted to open a Jesuit order and College in Dubrovnik. Highlights include the oldest bell in Dubrovnik which was casted in 1355.  Magnificent frescoes decorate the interior and its well worth a visit to the church, a highly recommend Dubrovnik attractions. The church can be accessed by climbing the famous baroque Jesuit staircase that leads up to the church. The church interior rivals that of the Dubrovnik cathedral. St. Ignatius Church is part of a complex that includes the Jesuit college and its associated buildings including a gymnasium. Its location and ornate nature are a natural fit as a venue for theatrical performances or a background for various movie scenes.

33. Dom Marina Držića (House)

Marina Držićai, a 16th-century Renaissance playwright, is Croatia’s Shakespeare, and he is regarded as the first person to write theatre in Croatian.This Dubrovnik attractions is not as popular, however it is interesting to see the lifestyle of the playwright.

34. Fort Bokar – Tvrđava Bokar

The fort was built an Italian Architect in 1460 and after much debate was finally completed in 1570. It’s purpose along with the Minčeta tower was to defend the Pile gate western entrance to Old Town Dubrovnik. The For Bokar Dubrovnik attractions can be accessed as part of the City Walls Walk. It is found on the PDF map. Today it is the location of various performances of the Dubrovnik Summer Festivals. This may be accessed as part of the City Walls Walk.

35. Ethnografic Museum Rupe – Ethnographic Museum

The museum is in a 16th century building, that survived the 1667 earthquake. Its original purpose was a granary storing the national grain supply of the Republic of Dubrovnik. In the museum are collections from Dubrovnik’s history including ceremonial robes, traditional clothing, weaving, artwork, and agriculture items like farm tools and equipment. The items displayed speak to the agricultural nature of the area. It is an interesting Dubrovnik attraction given its importance as a food storage facility.

Additional Dubrovnik tours with paid local guides

Dubrovnik Cable Cars

From the eastern gates of Old Town Dubrovnik, it’s a short walk to the cable cars. The cable car purchase booth is located at the base of Mount Srd.  The cable car system was constructed 1969 and heavily damaged during the war in 1990. It has since been repaired an operating since 2010. 

Most tourists visit Mount Srd only for the beautiful pictures and stunning view of Old Town Dubrovnik and its surrounding areas. But there is also a dark history behind the place.

During the siege of Dubrovnik, the Old Town was shelled from this location and caused a lot of damage and pain to the city and its inhabitants. The fort Imperial that is located on the Mount Srd was the only place that withstood the attack of the enemy forces.

Dubrovnik Beach Attractions:

Banje Beach

A rocky beach, close to town and can be access from the Ploče gate. It is a very popular white sand and pebble beach with crystal clear water. It has a vibrant night life when the bars in the area come alive.

There are a variety of water activities and tours available, tickets can be booked in advance.

Danče Beach

One of the oldest beaches and very popular with locals. You can easily access it from Old Town by walking 200 m on the main road from Pile gate and heading towards Hotel Hilton. The beach is located just below Gradac park in Danče bay. There are areas for sunbathing. There are ladders to go down into the sea and there are amenities such as a small café and showers.

Betina Cave Beach

This beach is a real gem and that can be accessed by water taxi from the harbor. Since the pebble beach is inside the cave, it is shaded and does get cool so you may want to visit it at the height of the afternoon heat.

Sveti Jakov Beach (St. James)

This beach is located about 1.5km from the Dubrovnik Old town eastern Pile gate. There are a number of sport activities including volleyball, canoeing, kayaking or jet skiing at the beach.  Snacks are offered at the beach bar.

Getting to Sveti Jakov:

  • walk 1.5 km from the eastern gate along the coastline or
  • drive and park in front of the abbey or
  • take bus #5 and get off at the last stop; its 200m from the last stop

Booking your Accommodations in Dubrovnik

For Additional Croatia Travel Guides, Tourist Maps and Airport Transfer:

  • Dubrovnik
    • Dubrovnik Game of Thrones and Old Town Self Guided Tour – Follow the Map and Guide to visit the film locations for Game of Thrones, beaches and churches. The self guided tour will take you a full day if you also visit the beaches. Use the map and attractions guide to visit the attractions of Old Town Dubrovnik and the locations of the Games of Thrones Scenes. The map has picture of the sites and how they looked for the film scenes.  The walking tour will take you ½ a day. If you visit Lokrum island and spend time at the beach/monastery/fort on the island, this will take you another ½ day to full day. Lokrum Island is the location of the City of Qarth in GoT and is a 10 min water taxi ride from the Dubrovnik Port
    • Dubrovnik Day Trips. Spend a day at each of the villages of Ston and Cavtat a short distance from Dubrovnik. Cavtat is a charming village that was invaded by the Slavs. The inhabitants fled and were the original settlers of Dubrovnik. Visit the historical beaches and spend time on the beach or hike the Ronald Brown Pathway.  Ston is a small village on a hill surrounded by a 7 km wall that is second in size to the Great Wall of China. It is famous for its defensive walls, its salt “mines” and its oyster bays. The oysters from Ston are well renowned
  • Zagreb
    • Upper Town, Old Town Zagreb – 15 must see attractions of Old Town Zagreb. Walk the attractions of Upper Town Zagreb, the self-guided walking tour will take you to the various attractions in ½ a day. You may want to explore some of these attractions in greater depth such as the Museum of Broken Relationships or climb the Lotrščak Tower. In that case the self guided tour will take more than half a day
    • Zagreb Lower Town, Lenuci Horseshoe – Visit the 7 Squares and Botanical gardens in the shape of a horseshoe, including the under ground 31,000 sq meter shopping mall. A ½ day tour of the U-shaped system of 7 parks and Zagreb botanical gardens. The Lenuci horseshoe in Lower Town Zagreb is a short walking distance from Zagreb’s main Ban Jelačić Square and facing the main train station Glavni Kolodvor. The Square include pavilions, theater, museums, state archives and an underground mall amongst its many historical buildings dotted throughout the horseshoe
    • Walking tour Zagreb Lower town and Grič Tunnels – A 2 hour tour of the tunnels under Zagreb old town; they were built as shelter during the war and are now used by the locals to cross Old Town or to go between upper town and lower town. Not only are they a short cut, they are cool in the summer and a welcome relief from the searing sun. Explore the old world war tunnels and visit the sights of lower town
    • Unique and Fun things to do in Zagreb – Explore activities and places to visit such as Jarun Lake, the Antiques Fair or discover current events in Zagreb
  • Split
    • Old Town Split and Marjan Hill – Explore the Old Town Square, then head over to Marjan Hill. This self guided tour can take a whole day as the walking portion of the tour will guide you to attractions in the Old Town and then on to Marjan Hill. This part of the tour will take ½ a day. The tour will end at the beach where you can spend the rest of the day, take the local bus back or walk along the promenade back to Old Town
    • Split, Salona ancient Roman Ruins – On the outskirts of Split, don’t miss the roman ruins of Salona, the birthplace of Emperor Diocletian. Step outside of the Old Town of Split and visit the nearby city of Solin (which is the ancient city of Salona, Diocletian’s birthplace). Then continue onto the town of Trogir. This self guided tour has instructions for local buses to take you on a route for a full day trip from Split to Salona (stop in Salona, then continue onto Trojir. Then catch the local bus back to Split
    • Trogir, UNESCO World Heritage Site – This attraction is often overlooked. It is a charming, authentic village, a heritage city where the Old Town is on an Island. It is an easy bus ride from Split to Trogir, with a stopover in Salona (Solin)
    • Split, Diocletian’s Palace – Not to be missed, the10 must see attractions in the palace to stop and take pictures. The Palace tour is a ½ day self-guided tour through the palace that will end at the market which you can explore
  • Zadar
    • Zadar Western Half – The old town is located on an island; explore the attractions on the westerns side of the island in this  ½ day self guided walking tour.  Attractions include popular attractions such as the Sea Organ, Greetings to the Sun and the Roman Forum / Ruins
    • Zadar Eastern Half – Take a ½ day to visit the churches, parks and other attractions on the eastern side of Zadar Island. Visit the fish markets and green markets for fresh food and explore the cobblestone alleyways for a touch of ambiance and potential souvenir shopping
    • Zadar islands – The Zadar Archipelago has around a 100 islands off its coast, many of them uninhabited. Visit all or any of the 9 popular islands in this map and use the attractions guide to the islands. You can rent a boat rent a boat with or without a captain, get a water taxi, take the ferry/ to visit the islands and swim in the Adriatic or anchor at hidden beach/cove
  • Island Visit
  • Croatia Islands – Rent or hire a boat to visit the 9 popular islands off the mainland. Visit 1 or 2 or all 9 islands for a fabulous day out to sea
  • Hvar Island
    • Hvar old town attractions and Španjola fortress (Fortica) – Use the self guided tour map and attractions to visit the popular sites in Hvar Old Town. The tour will take ½ a day to the major attractions in Hvar Town, including climbing to the Spanjola fortress that has been protecting Hvar for hundreds of years. However it could be longer if you want to spend time visiting the museums or spending an afternoon enjoying the magnificent views from the Fortress
    • Hvar Island driving tour – Take the local bus, rent a car / scooter for the day to visit the numerous attractions on the island.  This can take two days as there is a lot to see and do. It includes: wine tasting, visiting a cave monastery high on the hills, quaint fishing villages, popular beaches, hidden coves and harbours A great tour that will take you across the island
    • Hvar Islands and Lavendar Fields Tour – You can rent a boat (with or without a captain) and visit the islands off Hvar Island. The Pakleni Islands are an archipelago of 20 islands off the coat of Hvar. They are known for beautiful beaches, charming village towns and secluded coves.  You can take the bus to visit the abandoned villages of Velo Grabjle and Malo Grabjle,. It is a short bus ride or scooter/car trip from Hvar Town. Explore the fields of lavender and Olive Grove farms
  • Getting around Croatia – Information on Croatian buses and ferries

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