How to Spend 72 Hours in Dubrovnik: A Realistic Travel Guide
Dubrovnik, Croatia, is often treated as a quick “tick-box” destination: walk the walls, take a photo on Stradun, and leave. The reality is that three days is enough to experience the city properly if you approach it at a slower pace. This guide focuses on local insights, quiet spots, and authentic experiences, helping you explore without rushing, overplanning, or falling into tourist traps.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Location makes a big difference for a short stay. We stayed in a self-catering apartment inside the Old Town, which completely changed our experience. Being able to step out early in the morning or late at night, when the streets were quiet, gave the city a calm, authentic feel.
If staying inside the walls isn’t possible, Lapad or Ploče are excellent alternatives. Both areas are well-connected by bus, quieter than Stradun, and perfect for morning walks, swimming, or enjoying sunset views. Staying near a bus stop also makes it easy to explore hidden spots without paying for taxis or tours.
How to Get Around Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is compact and walkable, but public transport makes slow travel easy and affordable:
Airport to city: The #10 bus runs frequently from Dubrovnik Airport to Pile Gate (Old Town). It’s cheap, reliable, and avoids the expense of taxis.
Local buses: Buses connect the Old Town with Lapad, Ploče, and nearby beaches, allowing you to see more without spending on tours.
Walking: Many quiet streets, swimming spots, and viewpoints are only accessible on foot.
Using buses and walking allows you to experience Dubrovnik like a local, keeping costs low and travel stress-free.
Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik
Morning: Walk the City Walls
Start your day early to enjoy the walls before the crowds arrive. Grab a coffee at Cogito Coffee Shop, then walk the nearly two-kilometer historic walls. The early morning light and quiet streets let you take in:
Terracotta rooftops and medieval architecture
Panoramic views of the Adriatic and surrounding cliffs
Fortifications and marks from Dubrovnik’s history
Afterwards, explore the Old Town streets, quiet squares, and tucked-away churches. Slow down to notice the details often missed by hurried visitors.
Afternoon: Local Food and Quiet Streets
The best meals are tucked away from the main tourist routes. Small restaurants and side streets offer fresh seafood, local produce, and authentic Croatian flavors. We loved Portun, with its octopus salad and squid ink risotto. Take your time to enjoy both the food and the atmosphere, relaxed meals are part of the Dubrovnik experience.
Evening: Sunset and Scenic Views
The Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srđ provides panoramic views of the city and coastline. The Panorama Restaurant at the top is perfect for a relaxed drink. Whenever possible, reserve an outside table to enjoy the sunset comfortably.
Off the beaten path experiences
Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka: Take the #4 bus toward Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, then walk through the forest for peaceful coastal views. This route leads to Lapad, where you can swim from the rocks and stroll along the promenade.
Cave Bar More and Restaurant Zoe: Visiting off-season (September–October) makes these spots quieter. Enjoy drinks on the rocks or even a swim in the sea.
Optional Day Trip to Cavtat
If you have extra time, take a day trip to Cavtat by bus or scenic boat. Its calm streets, palm-lined harbour, and small-town charm provide a peaceful contrast to the Old Town. Enjoy lunch by the quayside and take a slow stroll before returning to Dubrovnik.
Where to Eat and Drink
Portun: Fresh seafood and Croatian classics, including squid ink risotto and octopus salad
Cave Bar More: Drinks on the rocks with ocean views, ideal for a relaxed afternoon
Restaurant Zoe: Casual cocktails, swimming, and a seaside atmosphere
Panorama Restaurant: Sunset drinks with panoramic views from Mount Srđ
Local bakeries and coffee spots: Perfect for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up
Sharing dishes is a good way to sample multiple flavors without rushing, and focusing on small, tucked-away spots keeps your meals authentic and affordable.
Top Tips for 72 Hours in Dubrovnik
Start early to enjoy quiet streets and beat cruise ship crowds.
Stay central — inside the walls if possible, otherwise Lapad or Ploče.
Focus on one or two highlight experiences per day. Quality over quantity works best.
Avoid tourist-trap restaurants on Stradun; look for side streets and small local eateries.
Visit off-season (late September–October or May–June) for lighter crowds and better weather.
Walk whenever possible — many hidden beaches, viewpoints, and streets are pedestrian-only.
Final Thoughts
Dubrovnik can be fully enjoyed in three days if you focus on the right experiences, slow travel, and local insights. Spend mornings in the Old Town, choose one or two highlights per day, and leave time to wander, swim, or simply relax.
You don’t need a packed itinerary or a tour guide, just a clear sense of what’s worth your time and the confidence to skip the rest. Slow travel is the key to experiencing Dubrovnik authentically.
