Deciding where to stay in Dubrovnik can feel like a daunting task when you consider that the city is one of Europe’s most picturesque and sought-after destinations.
With its rich history, stunning coastline and UNESCO World Heritage status, this city offers a variety of accommodation options, each with its own charm and appeal.
Whether you’re visiting Dubrovnik for the first time and want to experience the fairytale atmosphere of the Old Town or are a family looking for the quiet beaches of Lapad, Dubrovnik offers something for every type of traveler with its diverse accommodation options.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best places to stay in Dubrovnik and highlight the unique features of each neighborhood to help you find the perfect place for your visit. We also introduce you to our best hotels in each location to make your stay as memorable as possible.
The best places to stay in Dubrovnik
- 👉 Old Town: The heart of Dubrovnik, ideal for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of the historical action. Offers a range of accommodation, but can be a little more expensive.
- 👉 Pile: A family-friendly area with easy access to the old town and beautiful beaches, offering a quieter stay.
- 👉 Ploče: The most luxurious area, known for its opulent hotels and breathtaking views, perfect for a special occasion.
- 👉 Lapad: Ideal for beach lovers, with a mix of hotels and local amenities in a lively environment.
- 👉 Babin Kuk: Ideal for families and couples looking for an inexpensive retreat on the beach.
- 👉 Gruz: The most affordable area that offers a local experience with convenient transportation.
- 👉 Cavtat: A charming coastal village, ideal for anyone looking for a quiet retreat with good connections to Dubrovnik.
More detailed descriptions and specific recommendations for accommodation can be found below.
1. Old Town, the best area in Dubrovnik for first-time visitors
The beating heart of Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the Old Town, a delightful hotspot for travelers and arguably the crown jewel among the many enchanting areas to stay. Admittedly, it is a little more expensive, but who can put a price on experiencing a fairytale?
The narrow, cobbled streets and winding alleyways are lined with old terraced houses and picturesque stores that nestle together like lifelong neighbors. As you enter the old town through the large Pile Gate, the pedestrian-friendly Stradun spreads out before you, a 300-metre stretch of vibrant city life. Chic boutiques, lively cafés, cozy taverns and dreamy hotels are lined up to welcome you to the heart of Dubrovnik.
The vibrant boulevard is lined with relics of a bygone era – the impressive Onofrio fountain, the venerable Franciscan monastery with its charming “pharmacy of the little brothers”, a piece of history that has been in operation since 1317.
The Stradun ends at the Orlando Column, a popular meeting place for locals, and the beautiful church of St. Blaise. Just around the corner is the Rector’s Palace, a Gothic masterpiece resurrected from the ruins of a devastating fire in the 15th century. Today it is a museum housing a treasure trove of historical treasures from the time of the Republic of Ragusa.
Not far away is the lively Gunduliceva Poljana Square with its bustling morning market and the tranquil 18th century Jesuit monastery.
Century. After the caffeine kick, a tour of the old town’s robust fortifications is essential, albeit a little strenuous, especially under the Mediterranean sun. So pack your thirst quenchers! The entrances to these mighty walls are at the Pile Gate, the Maritime Museum and the Ploče Gate. With a thickness of up to 6 m and a height of 25 m, the views from the top are simply out of this world.
It’s impossible to miss the gleaming terracotta roofs, which look as good as new and bear witness to the enormous restoration work carried out after the destruction of the war.
If your feet need a break, hop on the cable car, which is located directly in front of the Old Town wall. As you glide to the top of Mount Srd, you can look forward to breathtaking panoramas of the city, the perfect setting for your best snapshots. Reward your ride with a refreshing drink in a café on the mountain.
When dusk falls, Dubrovnik puts on its party clothes. Feast in fantastic restaurants, sip cocktails in swanky bars or dance to the beats in lively clubs. One of the most popular meeting places is the Buza Bar, which is perched on the city wall and offers a breathtaking view with every order.
The more adventurous can descend into the ‘Cave Bar More‘, an atmospheric underground cave (but don’t worry, there is also an open-air area!). Wine lovers will enjoy the Malvasija Wine Bar with its impressive selection of over 60 wines, while jazz fans will love the Troubadour Jazz Café.
Despite the lack of space, the Old Town offers excellent accommodation for travelers with a variety of hotels, guesthouses, hostels and private apartments. If nightlife is your thing, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is the place where you’ll want to rest your head.
The best hotels in the Old Town of Dubrovnik
- (€€€) 👉 The Pucic Palace: The hotel offers historic charm with spacious, characterful rooms and excellent cuisine. Guests rave about the friendly staff, delicious breakfast and prime location, just steps away from cafes, restaurants and historic sights.
- (€€) 👉 Boutique Hotel Stari Grad: Stylish, comfortable rooms and exceptional breakfast on the roof terrace. Guests praise the friendly staff, the wonderful view and the quiet atmosphere, but criticize the lack of an elevator.
- (€) 👉 Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments: Excellent location, attentive and hospitable hosts and the opportunity to easily explore Dubrovnik’s sights.
- (Hostel) 👉 Hostel Angelina Old Town: Excellent location, clean, comfortable accommodation and a unique social experience through a guest WhatsApp group. Best for solo travelers.
2. Pile, best area for a stay in Dubrovnik with the family
Imagine: a picturesque suburb on the western flank of Dubrovnik’s old town, with the historic Pile Gate as the entrance to the vibrant heart of the city – welcome to Pile!
And that’s not all: the picturesque Pile Bay, a tiny alcove with a sandy beach, nestles at the foot of the majestic wall facing the sea.
The bus stop in the old town and the cab rank right outside the door make getting around a breeze, but beware: there are often bottlenecks at peak times.
Two jewels of Pile are located on the cliffs above Danče beach: Gradac Park, an idyllic garden paradise, and Lovrijenac Tower, also known as St. Lawrence’s Fortress. During the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, the fortress is transformed into an atmospheric venue for music and theater performances.
Around Pile there is an enticing selection of eateries, bars, cafés and stores. Accommodation options are a little sparse, but there are charming options around the small harbor, Sulic beach and a little further north in Brsalje.
Even if you’re not staying in Pile, you should take a day to stroll through the alleyways, window shop, have a coffee and discover the countless sights.
Best Hotels in Pile
- (€€€) 👉 Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik: Beautiful building, just a short walk from the old town. Friendly, courteous staff and great breakfast.
- (€€) 👉 Heritage Villa Nobile: Beautifully appointed boutique hotel with a phenomenal location close to the old town and kayaking spots. My favorite place in Pile, I felt right at home.
- (€) 👉 Apartments Cava Dubrovnik: Spacious accommodation with great views of the old town and the sea, all within a short walk of the main sights. The welcoming host Marko provided helpful tips for the surrounding area.
- (Hostel) 👉 Old Town Hostel: Convenient top location. It should be avoided in the hot summer months due to the lack of air conditioning.
3. Ploče, the most luxurious area to stay in Dubrovik
If you’re planning a dream stay in Dubrovnik for a special occasion and exclusivity is your middle name, Ploče should be at the top of your list.
This attractive neighborhood on the east side of the Old Town is a magnet for luxury lovers and is home to some of the city’s most opulent beach hotels.
Ploče got its touch of glamor in the early 1900s, when wealthy merchants began building lavish villas and hotels, mesmerized by the picturesque beaches and rugged cliffs. Due to the steep terrain, modern development is limited, allowing Ploče to retain its sophisticated charm.
As you stroll through the alleyways, don’t miss the unique stores and market stalls teeming with exclusive souvenirs. A must-see is the Tower of St. Dominic, a medieval gem near the Ploče Gate, where you can admire unique works of art and ceramics by famous local artists on three floors.
And you know what? The old town is just a five to ten minute walk from your hotel.
Although Ploče is famous for its luxury hotels, there are also a few private apartments. Regardless of your budget, Ploče offers a peaceful stay just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant center of Dubrovnik.
Best Hotels in Ploče
- (€€€) 👉 Hotel Excelsior: Lavishly furnished rooms that combine dark wood and modern technology. This 5-star hotel offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, an indoor pool, glamorous spa and fitness center and has hosted celebrity guests such as Elizabeth Taylor and Queen Elizabeth II.
- (€€) 👉 Villa Casa Bianca: Spacious, modern and minimalist apartment with breathtaking sea views from a large terrace, just 800 meters from the old town.
- (€) 👉 Apartments Sv. Jakov: Clean, comfortable and cozy accommodations with large balconies with stunning sea views and views of the old town. (Bonus: optional garage parking).
4. Lapad, the best place to stay in Dubrovnik for beach lovers
Imagine a quiet peninsula stretching into the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, just 3 km from the old town. That’s Lapad for you! This lively suburb, which is still relatively young with its 1960s/70s construction, offers a charming cocktail of local houses, guesthouses, apartments and hotels.
The town is full of stores, stores, mini-markets and an ever-growing number of cafés, bars and restaurants. Are you traveling by car? Don’t worry! You can easily park your car or simply leave it at the hotel for the duration of your stay.
A 15-minute bus ride will take you right to the doorstep of the old town. If you prefer, cabs and Uber services are also available.
The biggest crowd pullers are undoubtedly Dubrovnik’s popular beaches, which are spread across the entire peninsula. The Solitudo area is home to the popular Copacabana Beach, while Cava Beach and Uvala Bay are at home in Lapad Bay.
The beaches, surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery and soaring pine forests, offer pebble beaches, sun loungers and refreshment stands. For the little ones, playgrounds and sports facilities abound.
Want to escape the crowds? Stroll along the waterfront to discover quieter, rockier bathing spots – ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet spot by the sea.
Looking for the perfect balance between a beach vacation and a cultural exploration? Make Lapad your home in Dubrovnik.
Best hotels in Lapad
- (€€€) 👉 Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
- (€€) 👉 Villa Peragro
- (€) 👉 Apartments Martha
5. Babin Kuk, the best area in Dubrovnik for families and couples
Babin Kuk is more of a tourist magnet than a residential area and nestles comfortably on Lapad at the northern tip of the peninsula. The neighborhood has a lively personality and offers everything from cozy hostels and mid-range hotels to luxurious spa hotels and villas.
Babin Kuk is a shopper’s paradise with a wide selection of stores, bars and restaurants.
But let’s be honest, the real stars of Babin Kuk are the beaches, namely the big trio: Copacabana, Cava and Uvala. These sandy paradises, equipped with amenities such as showers and changing cabins, slope gently into the sea and are therefore ideal for families. However, beach shoes are recommended for little feet.
Feel the adrenaline rush with the numerous water sports on offer, or could a sailing expedition pique your interest? Jet skis, rowing boats and kayaks await your thirst for adventure.
Away from the beach, land and water tours beckon, and Dubrovnik’s Old Town is just 20 minutes away by bus. If you’re looking for a beachside retreat that’s just a stone’s throw away from the city’s rich history, Babin Kuk is your answer.
Best hotels in Babin Kuk
6. Gruz, the cheapest area for a stay in Dubrovnik
Gruz juts out from the west coast wing of Dubrovnik’s old town and lies at the heart of the city’s transportation network. Whether you are arriving from the airport or from other Croatian hotspots, buses roll into the city via the central Gruz terminal.
Gruz is also the stage for the bustling Dubrovnik docks, a hub for ferries departing various Adriatic routes and a welcome place for countless cruise ships throughout the year. For travelers who would like to explore more than Dubrovnik, Gruz offers a strategic starting point.
From comfortable hotels to private rooms, studios, apartment complexes and even villas, Gruz offers a variety of accommodation options. Stores for daily needs such as grocery stores and bakeries, car rentals, exchange offices, tourist information centers, pharmacies and department stores make your stay effortless.
Gruz also has a lively open-air market selling local produce, charming souvenirs and delightful handicrafts.
A stroll along the bay, a refreshing beer or coffee in hand, watching the ballet of ferries, yachts and sailboats is a real pastime when the harbor is buzzing with life.
When the stars come out, Gruz turns into a center of cafés/bars, various restaurants and wine bars. Imagine a candlelit dinner under the stars, right on the quay – an ambience like no other!
Given its proximity to the old town, good transport links and affordable accommodation options, Gruz is an ideal place to experience Dubrovnik in an affordable yet exciting way.
Best Hotels in Gruz
- (€€) 👉 Berkeley Hotel & Day Spa
- (€€) 👉 Boutique Hotel Kazbek
- (€€) 👉 Hotel Adria
- (Hostel) 👉 Hostel EuroAdria
7. Cavtat – Dubrovnik’s charming sibling on the coast
Cavtat is located on a small peninsula on the Dubrovnik Riviera, 20 km outside the city. Cavtat is a village steeped in history and in no way inferior to its big sister. Roman refugees laid the first stones of the Dubrovnik fortifications as early as 614 AD.
The village with its two cozy harbors and picturesque pebble beaches is a labyrinth of narrow streets, full of houses, local stores and a tempting selection of bars and restaurants.
Feel the charm of the city as you stroll past walls covered in bougainvillea, pots of bright flowers adorning the doorways and watch the cats basking in the summer warmth.
The harbor promenade, lined with palm trees and cypresses, invites you to linger in the street cafés and bars on the quay.
Cavtat also offers a wealth of visitor attractions and summer festivals. Explore the house of Vlaho Bukovac, a famous Croatian artist, which is now a museum.
Marvel at the Racic Mausoleum, a masterpiece by an important Croatian sculptor, built with stones from the island of Brac.
Other gems include the Monastery of Our Lady of the Snows, located by the harbor, and the Konavle County Museum, which exhibits traditional costumes, jewelry and handicrafts through the ages.
Just a stone’s throw away is the village of Cilipi, where the locals sing and dance in traditional costumes on the main square every Sunday morning from spring to fall.
The Cavtat Summer Festival, which takes place from June to September, offers a cultural treat with traditional music, dancing and street performers.
For foodies, Cavtat offers a wide selection of local and international restaurants and cozy cafes/bars serving tapas, beers, local quality wines and cocktails.
Accommodation options range from family-run guesthouses to opulent luxury villas.
If you prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still want easy access to Dubrovnik, Cavtat is an excellent choice.
Best Hotels in Cavtat
- (€€€) 👉 Casa Antika Suites
- (€€) 👉 Hotel Croatia
- (€) 👉 Apartments Mara & Petrunjela
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Questions about where to stay in Dubrovnik
what can you do in dubrovnik?
In this article, the author provides a comprehensive guide to the best areas to visit in Dubrovnik, highlighting the unique characteristics of each neighborhood. The Old Town is recommended for first-time visitors who want to experience the historic heart of the city, while Pile offers a family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to the Old Town and beautiful beaches. Ploče is known for its luxurious hotels and breathtaking views, making it perfect for a special occasion. Lapad is ideal for beach lovers, with a mix of hotels and local amenities in a lively setting. Babin Kuk is ideal for families and couples looking for a budget beach retreat, while Gruz is the most affordable area, offering a local experience with convenient transport links. Finally, Cavtat is a charming coastal village that is perfect for those looking for a quiet retreat that is easily connected to Dubrovnik.
where can you stay overnight in the old town of dubrovnik?
In this article, the author recommends several hotels in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, including the Pucic Palace, the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, the Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments and the Hostel Angelina Old Town. The Pucic Palace offers historic charm with spacious rooms and excellent cuisine, while the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad offers stylish accommodation and an exceptional breakfast on the rooftop terrace. Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments are praised for their excellent location and attentive hosts, and Hostel Angelina Old Town is recommended for solo travelers seeking a prime location and comfortable accommodation with a unique social experience.
where can you stay in dubrovnik with the family?
According to the article, the best area to stay in Dubrovnik with the family is Pile. This picturesque suburb is located on the west side of the Old Town, with the historic Pile Gate serving as the entrance to the heart of the city. Pile offers easy access to the old town by bus or cab and has a picturesque bay with a sandy beach. The area is also home to attractions such as Gradac Park and Lovrijenac Tower, as well as a selection of restaurants, bars, cafés and stores. The article recommends several family-friendly hotels in Pile, such as the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik and Heritage Villa Nobile.
where to stay in dubrovnik for couples?
The article suggests that Babin Kuk is a great area to stay in Dubrovnik for couples. Located on the northern tip of the Lapad peninsula, Babin Kuk offers a variety of accommodation, from cozy hostels to luxurious spa hotels and villas. The area is known for its lively atmosphere with a variety of stores, bars and restaurants. The main attractions are the beaches, particularly Copacabana, Cava and Uvala, which are equipped with amenities and slope gently into the sea, making them ideal for couples. The article also mentions that Babin Kuk is only a 20-minute bus ride from the Old Town, allowing easy access to Dubrovnik’s rich history.
where can you stay cheaply in dubrovnik?
According to the article, the most convenient area to stay in Dubrovnik is Gruz. This neighborhood is located on the west coast of the old town and serves as the city’s main transportation hub with a central bus station and ferry docks. Gruz offers a variety of accommodation options, from comfortable hotels to private rooms, studios, apartment complexes and villas. The area is also well equipped with everyday necessities, such as grocery stores, bakeries, car rental agencies, currency exchange offices and tourist information centers. The article recommends several budget hotels in Gruz, including Berkeley Hotel & Day Spa, Boutique Hotel Kazbek, Hotel Adria and Hostel EuroAdria.
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