With a wealth of hotels, guesthouses and apartments to suit every traveller, choosing the best place to stay in Dubrovnik can be a struggle. In this article we'll go over the best Dubrovnik neighbourhoods to stay in and highlight our favourite Dubrovnik accommodation options whether you're looking for luxury or travelling with the whole family.
Overview
Most visitors choose to stay in Dubrovnik's charming red-roofed Old Town.
1. Dubrovnik Accommodation Tips from our Local Experts
Seek Accommodation with Secluded Gardens: While many tourists focus on the city's coastal views, consider accommodations with hidden gardens. These green oases offer serene spots for morning coffee or peaceful relaxation, away from the bustling Old Town. Look for guesthouses and boutique hotels that provide a secret garden escape like Hotel Lapad, Palace Natali, or Hotel Splendid with its gorgeous terrace.
Opt for Traditional Stone Houses: For a truly authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional Dalmatian stone house. These charming and historic accommodations offer an intimate ambiance that connects you with Dubrovnik's rich heritage. You'll often find them tucked away in quieter corners of the Old Town, such as St. Joseph's Boutique Hotel, Pucić Palace, and Hotel Kazbek.
Experience Island Retreats: Dubrovnik boasts a series of captivating islands, each with its own unique character. To explore beyond the mainland, consider booking accommodations on islands like Šipan, Lopud, or Mljet. These tranquil retreats offer a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in unspoiled beauty.
Book in Advance: Dubrovnik is a highly sought-after tourist destination, especially during the summer. To secure the best accommodations and avoid disappointment, it's advisable to book your stay well in advance, particularly if you plan to visit during the peak season.
Consider the Time of Year: Dubrovnik experiences variations in prices and crowds throughout the year. For a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring and fall.
Plan for Parking: If you're traveling by car, be aware that parking within the Old Town can be challenging. Check with your accommodation about parking options, or consider staying in neighborhoods like Lapad or Gruž, which offer easier parking access.
Be Mindful of Noise: The Old Town can get lively, especially during the summer. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, inquire about the noise level at your chosen accommodation and consider options in quieter neighborhoods like Ploče or Babin Kuk.
Dubrovnik's quaint Old Town streets are packed with attractive guesthouses and hotels.
2. Which Dubrovnik neighbourhood should you to stay in?
Most visitors to Dubrovnik prefer to stay near the Old Town, which is centered around the iconic Dubrovnik city walls and the bustling Stradun street. But its worth considering Dubrovnik's other neighbourhoods, especially if you're looking for a more authentic experience or calmer, relaxing stay by the beach.
Ploče - For the Luxury Seeker
Ploče is the epitome of luxury in Dubrovnik, located on the eastern side of the Old Town. It offers the most breathtaking views of the city walls and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. If you're a traveler with a penchant for upscale accommodations and a desire for easy access to the historic attractions of the Old Town, Ploče is the neighborhood for you. Here, you'll find high-end hotels and luxurious apartment rentals, ensuring a pampered stay with every comfort.
Lapad - For Families and Beach Lovers
For those traveling with families or simply seeking sun and sand, Lapad is the ideal neighborhood. Situated on the Lapad Peninsula, this family-friendly area boasts a beautiful promenade, lush parks, and a collection of inviting beaches. Lapad provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and fun in the sun. You can choose from a variety of family-friendly hotels and beachfront resorts, many of which offer amenities tailored to the needs of children.
Babin Kuk - For Peace and Relaxation
Nestled in lush greenery with serene beaches on Lapad peninsula, Babin Kuk is an upscale residential area known for its tranquility. It's the perfect choice for travelers who yearn for peace and relaxation while staying within easy reach of Dubrovnik's attractions. If you're seeking a calm escape with an air of luxury, Babin Kuk offers a range of upscale resorts with private beaches, and wellness and spa hotels that cater to your need for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Gruž - For Budget Travelers and Authentic Experiences
Gruž, a vibrant port neighborhood, is a haven for budget-conscious travelers. It immerses you in the local way of life, offering a bustling market, authentic eateries, and convenient access to public transportation. If you're a traveler seeking genuine experiences on a budget, Gruž is the place to be. Accommodations here include hostels, budget-friendly guesthouses, and the unique option of staying with local families for a truly authentic Dubrovnik experience.
Šipan - For Island Escapes
For those seeking a getaway from the mainland, Šipan is one of the enchanting Elaphiti Islands, offering a serene and tranquil experience. Travelers looking for untouched natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful escape will find Šipan to be an ideal destination. Accommodations on the island range from charming guesthouses to beachfront cottages, all providing the perfect setting for a serene island experience, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Reminiscent of an Italian Riviera villa, Villa Orsula effortlessly combines elegance and comfort.
3. Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik
For those who seek opulence and indulgence, Dubrovnik's best five-star hotels that world-class amenities with breathtaking Adriatic views.
- Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik: Perched on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, the Excelsior is a historic five-star gem located a short 5-minute stroll from the Old Town. With a private beach, exquisite dining a three in-house restaurants, and a lavish spa, it provides an unparalleled retreat just a short stroll from the Old Town.
- Villa Orsula: Reminiscent of the finest villas of the Italian Riviera, this five-star boutique hotel ups the exclusivity and elegance stakes with a stunning setting on a cliff overlooking the sea. Orsula pampers guests with stunning vistas, a private beach, and highly personalized service, all while being just 5-minutes away from the Old Town on foot.
St Joseph's Boutique Hotel oozes elegance and charm.
4. Boutique Hotels in Dubrovnik
For those who appreciate a more intimate and unique experience, Dubrovnik's boutique hotels radiate character and historic charm.
- St. Joseph's: Housed in a 16th-century Renaissance palace in the heart of the Old Town, this charming hotel offers 6 individually designed rooms and a captivating courtyard, all wrapped in personalized service. Best of all, the property is just a 2-minute walk from the Walls of Dubrovnik.
- Kazbek Hotel: Meticulously restored from a 16th-century villa, this special 5 star property in Lapad boasts just 13 rooms, marrying history and luxury in perfect harmony. Enjoy lounging by the pool or luxuriating in the spa after a busy day walking the streets of Dubrovnik's Old Town.
- The Pucić Palace: Nestled in an 17th century palace built by the aristocratic Pucić family,
this 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town is the place for a truly unique taste of Dubrovnik's history. Guests also get complimentary access to Banje Beach, some 600 metres away, including the use of a beach towel, parasol and sun lounger.
Miracle Apartments offers a stunning private terrace for watching the sunset.
5. Top Dubrovnik Apartments and Vacation Rentals
If your preference is a more independent experience, Dubrovnik's apartment rentals provide flexibility and a taste of local life.
- Apartments Festa: Located in the heart of the Old Town, these modern and charming apartments have easy access to all of the city's treasures.
- Miracle Apartments: This comfortable and affordable option offers free parking, a well-equipped kitchen, and fantastic views from the extensive private terrace in a quiet neighbourhood 1.5km away from the Old Town.
Hostel Sol is a great budget option in Dubrovnik.
6. Dubrovnik's Best Hostels & Budget Accommodation
Traveling on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing comfort in Dubrovnik.
- Hostel Sol provides affordable dorms and private rooms in a sociable atmosphere. Situated in Gruž close to Dubrovnik's ferry port, it caters to budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable stay that won't break the bank.
- Anna Guesthouse is another budget-friendly gem in Lapad offering clean and comfortable rooms. Some units come with a small kitchenette, and guests can even take fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden.
Valamar Collection Dubrovnik President Hotel offers superb beaches and a dedicated kids' programme.
7. Family-Friendly Accommodation in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is an ideal family destination, and several accommodations cater to the needs of both parents and children.
- Valamar Collection Dubrovnik President Hotel: Located on the Babin Kuk peninsula, this luxurious beachfront property boasts spacious family rooms, a private beach, and an array of activities for kids. A popular recent addition is the Maro World, the largest family entertainment centre on the Adriatic with numerous edutainment attractions over an area of 1800 m2 for children of all ages.
- Apartments Lotos: Located in Lapad, these self-catering apartments offer space and convenience for small families. With free parking, an extra bed for children, and decent kitchen facilities, they provide flexibility for dining in and are just a short walk from the beach.
- Villa Radovic: For families looking to stay in a smaller town, this family-run guesthouse in offers comfortable rooms and apartments with kitchenettes. It's located in Cavtat, some 11km from Dubrovnik, which is connected to Dubrovnik in the summer months via an hourly ferry service.
Watch the sunset while you dine at a beachfront resort like Royal Hotels & Resort Dubrovnik.
8. Dubrovnik's Top Beachfront Resorts
If your dream vacation involves beachfront serenity, Dubrovnik offers a selection of beautiful beachfront resorts.
- Royal Hotels & Resort Dubrovnik: This collection of five luxurious hotels is located in Babin Kuk on the Lapad peninsula. Guests have the run of the place, with numerous seaside terraces for dining, lounging, and sipping cocktails while you watch the sun go down.
- Sun Gardens Dubrovnik: This sprawling 5-star resort and member of The Leading Hotels of the World is set 11km from Dubrovnik on an especially gorgeous stretch of Adriatic coastline. You can enjoy direct access to the sea, a well-equipped sports center, and an exquisite spa. It's perfect for those who dream of a chilled out beachfront vacation with a wide range of activities and amenities.
Dubrovnik's Royal Princess Hotel offers beachside stays and eco-friendly credentials.
9. Eco-Friendly Accommodation in Dubrovnik
For environmentally-conscious travelers, Dubrovnik's eco-friendly accommodation options are an increasingly popular choice.
- Villa Dubrovnik: This elegant 5-star hotel set on a cliff above the sea a little south-east of Dubrovnik is certified by Green Globe, the premier global certification for sustainable travel and tourism. The hotel focuses on reducing its carbon footprint wherever possible and raising environmental awareness amongst staff, guests, and locals. Expect gorgeous views over the island of Lokrum and Dubrovnik's Old Town, top notch amenities, and plenty of opportunities to take in the glittering Adriatic from the comfort of your sunlounger or private terrace.
- Royal Princess Hotel: Surrounded by a fragrant pine forest on the seafront at Lapad, this dreamy property offers direct beach access and lavish sea views. The owners have recently begun a number of eco-friendly initiatives, and they have been ranked as "Advanced Category" for sustainability by the Association of Employers in Croatian Hospitality.