Dubrovnik City Break: Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip
By Aislinn O’Neill on 13th February, 2020
I tend to have some key considerations when I design the perfect Croatia tailor-made holiday for my clients. Here are some of my thoughts to help you plan your Dubrovnik city break.
Weather
The weather is often top of our list when planning a holiday and it’s no surprise that the peak summer months of July and August are the hottest in Croatia. While this is bliss for some of us, it can be far too much for others. Climbing the old town city walls, cycling in the countryside or kayaking may seem less appealing in the intense heat.
If 30+ degrees is too hot for you but you still love to swim in the sea, the shoulder season months of May, June, September and October are great for you. Warm weather can still be enjoyed in April, with temperatures averaging 20+ it can be unpredictable, however, temperatures may drop in the evening, so pack a few layers.
Winter is still enjoyable in Dubrovnik, temperatures are relatively mild, no lower than 5 degrees and the sun often makes an appearance, bear in mind it sets at about 4.30 in December. It is not unheard of to venture out without a coat in November/December. I have even heard of locals swimming in the sea during the winter.
Experience
The popularity of Dubrovnik’s old town means it can become incredibly busy in the peak summer months of July and August. Tourist numbers are at their highest and daily cruise ships also arrive. The authorities have limited the numbers of cruise ships allowed to dock but you’ll find thousands of extra people flood the old town’s sights and cafes. It is best to book the best restaurants in advance of your trip and you may have to queue up for tables at cafes and at the main sights. If you are visiting during the peak of the season plan sightseeing around cruise times and I recommend staying outside the centre of the old town.
Tourist numbers tend to pick up from Easter but April has a comfortable number of visitors and the old town is far less congested, prices are substantially lower than the mid-high season. Read this blog post for further insights on Easter in Dubrovnik.
There are still tourists in the winter, especially since BA extended its schedule of direct flights from the UK to Dubrovnik in the winter months. However, tourists are far fewer and you can enjoy the old town at its most serene. Read this blog post: Here’s why you should visit Dubrovnik in the winter.
If you are visiting before the season fully begins in May, do bear in mind that some services may be reduced or not operating at all. If your hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, it is wise to check that it is operating if this is a key requirement for your stay as many swimming pools are unheated.
Budgets
Simple supply and demand dictate that the higher the number of tourists, the higher the prices but you might be surprised by how much they increase. Smaller Boutique properties and luxury hotels double or triple their prices in July and August and eating out can also be more expensive.
If you are hoping to get more for your money and want to explore the city with few tourists, the winter months are for you. March and April are great value and days are warmer but bear in mind the season doesn’t officially start until May and while the restaurants and sights will be open some services may be on a reduced service or not operating at all, for example the ferry services to nearby islands. If you love the buzz and hotter weather and are not restricted to school holidays, the shoulder months of May, June and September are for you.
Where to stay
When considering where to stay in Dubrovnik you will likely choose between the Old Town or the Lapad Peninsula, both offer different experiences. Staying within the walls of the old town you get a full appreciation for the history of the city. Dubrovnik’s old town has some beautiful boutique properties, such as The Pucic Palace overlooking the market square. You don’t have to miss out on the beach as the Banje beach is located just outside the city walls.
Alternatively, choose to enjoy your time relaxing at one of the larger modern hotels with a swimming pool overlooking the azures of the Adriatic, such as the Hotel Kompas. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the doorstep along with Sunset Beach, tennis courts and a children’s play park. The old town is just a short bus ride away.
On the other side of the Lapad Peninsula is Hotel Kazbek, a former villa residence for aristocratic families, overlooking the new marina and Gruz. Here, you are away from it all but a short walk to Lapad bay and the bus to the old town.
Events
There are numerous events throughout the year. The most popular are the Summer Festivals, The Festival of St. Blaise and Christmas Advent. Click here for a round-up of the key festivals in Dubrovnik for 2023
Rather leave the planning to someone else? Email us at croatia@fleewinter.com or call +44 (0)20 7112 0019 and we will design a tailor-made Dubrovnik city break or a wider Croatia holiday for you. All holidays are ABTA and/or ATOL protected.
Written by Aislinn O’Neill
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“Coffee drinking is the biggest social past-time in Croatia, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a takeaway cup. Croatia’s quality espresso should be enjoyed with friends while watching the world go by. No matter how busy you are there is always time to stop for a cup.” – Ash O’Neill, Croatia Specialist
