Create Guide
Picture of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Travel Guide for
Dubrovnik

Croatia

Mediterranean, hot dry summers, mild winters

Introduction

Dubrovnik, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Adriatic," sits on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast. With its magnificent medieval walls and centuries-old stone streets, the city is rich in history and UNESCO-listed heritage.

From May 15 to May 22, expect pleasant weather with sunshine and temperatures around 22-25°C—ideal for sightseeing and lounging. For a high-budget trip with friends, indulge in luxury yacht charters, dine at gourmet seaside restaurants, and explore the vibrant nightlife. Dubrovnik offers an unbeatable mix of history, culture, and exclusive experiences.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates15-22 May 2026

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel, resort, villa

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and toursgastronomyfestivals and events

Not what you're looking for? Create Your Own Guide!

Picture of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Itinerary

Begin your journey with a focus on soaking up the charm and history of Dubrovnik’s famous walled old city, blending culture, art, and local flavors.

Guided Tour of Rector’s Palace and Cultural Museum

Discover centuries of local history and art at the Rector’s Palace, a masterpiece of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. Join a curated group tour to learn about Dubrovnik's political and artistic heritage.

Dubrovnik City Walls Admission Ticket

Dubrovnik City Walls Admission Ticket

INSTANT

No visit to Dubrovnik would be complete without a walk around city’s main claim to fame – spectacular city walls. Built in the 10th century these enormous walls, as high as six meters and up to six meters thick, provided a solid defence against invaders. With nearly 2 kilometres in length, these city walls offer a perfect spot for a casual stroll and mesmerizing views of Old Town and shimmering Adriatic. Other highlights include its two towers, the Minčeta Tower and the Bokar Tower, along with two forts, the Fort Lawrence and the Revelin Fortress. There are three access points to the walls:  one close to the Dominican Monastery, one close to the Maritime Museum at Fort St. John and one at Pile Gate.

3.6 (242 reviews)

From $52 USD

View Details

Key Facts

Location

Dalmatia, Croatia

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

42,000

Language

Croatian, English, Italian

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Types C/F

Time zone

UTCCET (UTC+1)

Country code

+385

Internet access

Widespread 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, affordable

Climate

Mediterranean, hot dry summers, mild winters

See More Croatia Facts

Language:

Croatian

  • hello

    dobar dan (do-bar dahn)
  • goodbye

    doviđenja (do-vee-jen-ya)
  • yes

    da (dah)
  • no

    ne (neh)
  • how much

    koliko ovo košta? (koh-lee-koh oh-voh koh-shta)
  • please

    molim (moh-leem)
  • thank you

    hvala (hvah-lah)
  • excuse me

    oprosti (oh-pro-stee)

Map

Logistics

Dubrovnik is best accessed by air, with direct flights from major European cities arriving at Dubrovnik Airport, just 20 minutes from the Old Town. Private airport transfers, luxury car hires, or arranged shuttle services are recommended for comfort and convenience, especially when traveling with friends.

Train service does not reach Dubrovnik, but high-end buses connect the city with Split and Zagreb. For a more scenic and exclusive journey, consider chartering a private yacht or speedboat from nearby coastal areas—perfect in May, when the weather is pleasantly warm and skies are usually clear.

Keep in mind that Dubrovnik can get busy in late May due to increasing tourist arrivals; booking transport and accommodations ahead is highly recommended for a seamless experience.

Weather

Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average summer highs reach 28°C (82°F), while winters are cooler but rarely freezing. Spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant, with blooming landscapes and fewer crowds, making it a great time for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and tours.

Between May 15 and May 22, you can expect warm temperatures around 21–25°C (70–77°F), lots of sunshine, and occasional short showers. Extreme weather is rare during this time, so it’s ideal for exploring the Old Town, enjoying nightlife, attending spring festivals, and indulging in Dubrovnik’s vibrant gastronomy on outdoor terraces.

Food & Drink

Dubrovnik’s cuisine features fresh Adriatic seafood, black risotto, octopus salad, and locally cured prosciutto. Traditional dishes like peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood under a bell-like lid) and local wines or rakija (fruit brandy) are must-tries. Summer brings a bounty of seasonal vegetables and fresh catches.

For high-end dining, try Restaurant 360° with stunning city views, or Nautika for elegant seafood fare. Bota Šare offers inventive oysters, while Buza Bar is famous for cliffside drinks at sunset. Revelin and Culture Club are top choices for nightlife vibes with friends. Most restaurants appreciate a 10% tip, while high-end establishments may include a service charge.

Vegetarians will find more options in recent years, but meat and seafood dominate. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak tourist season for the best spots, especially for groups. Dress smartly for upscale places; Dubrovnik’s vibrant culinary scene makes for unforgettable group dining experiences.

A picture of Black Risotto

Black Risotto

Black Risotto is a rich and flavorful dish made with cuttlefish or squid, rice, onions, garlic, and red...

A picture of Pasticada

Pasticada

Pasticada is a traditional Dalmatian dish featuring slow-cooked beef marinated in vinegar and spices, then braised with prosciutto...

A picture of Cevapi

Cevapi

Cevapi are delicious grilled sausages made from a mixture of ground meats, usually beef, pork, and lamb. They...

A picture of Sarma

Sarma

Sarma is a beloved dish made of fermented cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of minced meat,...

A picture of Fritule

Fritule

Fritule are delightful bite-sized fritters, often referred to as Croatian donuts. They are made with a dough of...

Accommodation

For a luxurious stay in Dubrovnik, book your accommodation on Hotels.com, which offers top-rated hotels and seaside resorts like Hotel Excelsior, Villa Dubrovnik, and Sun Gardens Dubrovnik. The Old Town and Ploče neighborhoods are best for easy access to sights, nightlife, and the Adriatic views.

Stylish villas in the Lapad peninsula or along the coast are ideal for a traveling-with-friends group, offering privacy and upscale amenities. From May 15 to May 22, demand is high—reserve well ahead, as boutique and resort options fill quickly during this popular spring period.

Attractions

5.0 (207 reviews)
Full-Day Private Boat Tour of Elafiti Island from Dubrovnik

Full-Day Private Boat Tour of Elafiti Island from Dubrovnik

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us on this unique trip of discovering the amazing Elafiti Islands. Situated near Dubrovnik, with its gorgeous beaches, amazing crystal-clear sea and lots of sun, this beautiful archipelago is not something you would want to miss. This whole-day boat tour of the Elafiti islands is unique for its flexible itinerary that allows you to get the most out of this trip. If you have special wishes, talk to your skipper and make an agreement on how will your itinerary look. Our job is to show you the best of the archipelago so sit back and enjoy the ride in your private boat to your amazing destinations. Skipper and guide in one, fuel, underwater camera, soft drinks, beer, bottled water, snorkeling masks and dry bags included. All our three speedboats are avalible to choose for all kind of boat tours. Pls. visit our website before booking and take a look in our boat section, where you can see a video of every boat and make a choice :)!.

From $582 USD

View Details
5.0 (193 reviews)
Private Boat Tour to the Elafiti Islands with Atlantic Marine

Private Boat Tour to the Elafiti Islands with Atlantic Marine

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Visit the stunning Elaphiti Islands and witness their natural beauty. Explore magnificent caves (Blue&Green Caves) pristine beaches, picturesque harbors, local restaurants, and much more. This tour is fun and highly recommended for younger adventurers, families with children, friends, and anyone who loves nature, excitement, and the sea. The tour is conducted aboard a new luxury 26-foot Atlantic Marine speedboat, built in 2025, and equipped with a 300 hp Yamaha engine, allowing for fast and efficient travel between destinations. The speedboat also features a bimini top providing shade and protection from the sun, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the day. It is a private tour with a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, this tour offers the perfect way to explore the beautiful Elaphiti Islands surrounding Dubrovnik.

From $612 USD

View Details
5.0 (174 reviews)
Full-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675

Full-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour is ideal for families or groups of friends that wish to explore 3 islands and all of their best spots. Since the tour is fully private, the itinerary is not fixed and can be agreed upon with your skipper before you start the tour. The Elafiti islands are an archipelago situated close to and slightly northwest of Dubrovnik. There’s actually six islands in the archipelago, not including any small islets, although the three main ones to visit and stay on are Koločep, Lopud and Sipan. Two of the three islands, Kolocep and Lopud, are entirely car-free, which means they’re an excellent place to base yourself on if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With this option you will spend a full day on the sea, relax in nice private bays, go for a swim, snorkel, sunbathe on the boat and take your pick from several amazing restaurants on the islands. At the end of the day, get your camera ready for a breathtaking Adriatic sunset on the boat ride back into town.

From $588 USD

View Details
5.0 (128 reviews)
Private Speedboat Tour: Blue Cave, Elaphite Islands & Hidden Gems

Private Speedboat Tour: Blue Cave, Elaphite Islands & Hidden Gems

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Avoid crowded group tours and explore the Elaphite Islands with skipper on a private speedboat designed for comfort, flexibility, and local insight. With knowledge, experience and tradition taught to us by our grandfather (Nono). We strive to offer the most authentic local experience available. We tailor every tour to your specific needs in hopes to give you some beautiful stories and unforgettable memories. You will get to know first-hand beautiful nature of the Elaphite Islands, sandy beaches and magnicifent blue caves with a local skipper. This is 100% private tour and you can make your own schedule, with a bit of advice from you skipper so you can get the most out of your boat tour. This trip is intended for people of all age groups.

From $416 USD

View Details
5.0 (106 reviews)
Private Boat Tour from Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands

Private Boat Tour from Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us for a beautiful day at Elaphiti islands at our private boat tours from Dubrovnik! Visit Koločep, Lopud and Šipan islands, caves, sandy beach Šunj. Relax on our sundeck provided with music, Wi-Fi and drinks or make it adventurous and use provided snorkeling equipment to explore the sea caves.

From $428 USD

View Details
5.0 (105 reviews)
Speedboat Atlantic Marine 750, 4 or 8 hours

Speedboat Atlantic Marine 750, 4 or 8 hours

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Boat fits up to 12 people, and it is an ideal boat for those who like adrenaline and fun, quick ride to any destination. Makes enough time to visit and explore all the Adriatic wonders. Atlantic Marine is a perfect choice for small groups ready to go for and adventure exploring Elaphiti islands. Boat is perfectly sized, so you can enter inside the caves with it, and that's an amazing experience, when all shades of blue colors are mixing with sun rays passing through azure blue sea. Imagine! :)

From $832 USD

View Details
5.0 (97 reviews)
Explore Blue & Green Caves With Speedboat - Private Tour

Explore Blue & Green Caves With Speedboat - Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Due to the geomorphology of the Adriatic coast, caves located on the sea surface are easily accessible to visitors with a boat, and therefore world-famous. On this tour, we will take you to the exploration of the seven Dubrovnik caves. Being born and raised here, on the sea, our skippers know them like the back of their hand. And yet, they never cease to admire their magnificence and the feeling of serenity you get once you enter that surreal natural empire.

From $357 USD

View Details
5.0 (97 reviews)
Full Day Sailing Tour To Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik

Full Day Sailing Tour To Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Embark on an 8-hour sailboat tour from Dubrovnik to Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. Discover the serene beauty of Koločep with its clear waters and charming village. Dive into the azure sea at Lopud's Sunj Beach. Lastly, wander through Šipan, visit the Skočibuha Castle, and savor the island's vineyards and olive groves. Visit one of the local restaurants for amazing food and refreshing drinks. This tour offers a perfect blend of tranquility, stunning beaches, rich history, and natural wonders. A day filled with unforgettable experiences awaits you as you sail through the breathtaking Dubrovnik archipelago.

From $139 USD

View Details
5.0 (88 reviews)
Half-Day Best Beaches & Bays Private Speed Boat Tour

Half-Day Best Beaches & Bays Private Speed Boat Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour takes you to 4 best beaches in Elafiti Islands surroundings. A half hour stop on each beach, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkelling and beautiful nature and clear turquoise sea.

From $333 USD

View Details
5.0 (85 reviews)
Private Speedboat Tour in Dubrovnik

Private Speedboat Tour in Dubrovnik

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Travelers should book this boat tour for an unforgettable experience of breathtaking sights and immersive adventure. With expert guides and a well-maintained vessel, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore stunning coastlines, hidden coves, and pristine waters. Whether it's witnessing majestic marine life, discovering secluded islands, or simply enjoying the tranquility of being on the water, this boat tour guarantees an exceptional and memorable journey that will leave travelers with lifelong memories.

From $416 USD

View Details

FAQ

Find quick answers to your Dubrovnik travel questions with our travel guide chatbot. Your questions will be added to this section to help other travellers.

Primary hero image

Ready to plan your trip?

Share your travel insights or create a new guide for fellow adventurers!