Where to stay in Dubrovnik? Best Areas, Hotels, Guesthouses, and Apartments

Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval architecture, city walls, beautiful palaces, and stunning beaches.

Dubrovnik has also been a prominent filming location for “Game of Thrones, ” adding to its popularity.

Finding where to stay in Dubrovnik is an exciting part of trip planning, with distinct areas to choose from. We compiled this list of the best accommodations and locations in Dubrovnik. We have personally stayed in many of these places or inspected on our many visits to this lovely town.

The Old Town is the best place to stay in Dubrovnik because of its medieval charm and proximity to landmarks like Pile Gate and Stradun.

For a relaxed beachfront stay in Dubrovnik, choose Lapad or Babin Kuk, with excellent beach access and various resorts. Pile and Ploce neighborhoods offer the vicinity of the old town, while Gruz is the best for budget travelers.

Dubrovnik is known for its mix of luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and budget accommodations scattered across the city. Each Dubrovnik neighborhood has unique features and caters to different traveler needs, from families to couples or solo explorers.

Let’s break down the best accommodation and areas to stay in Dubrovnik. 

What are the Best Areas to Stay in Dubrovnik?

The best areas to stay in Dubrovnik are the Old Town, Pile, Ploče, Lapad, Babin Kuk, and Gruž.

Old Town Dubrovnik is the best area to stay in Dubrovnik because of its medieval architecture and key landmarks, while Lapad and Babin Kuk are ideal for a quieter, more relaxed beachfront stay. Ploče offers scenic luxury, and Gruž provides budget-friendly options. The Pile area is excellent for travelers who want easy access to the Old Town and a slightly more affordable neighborhood. 

1. Old Town, the Best Area to Stay in Dubrovnik

Old Town is Dubrovnik’s historic core and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charm of staying in the Old Town comes from being surrounded by medieval architecture, with key landmarks such as the Dubrovnik City Walls, Rector’s Palace, and Sponza Palace at your doorstep.

It’s the most crowded area during the peak season because of the concentration of tourist attractions. Still, beautiful boutique hotels like Hotel Pucić Palace offer an intimate, historic atmosphere. Staying here gives you easy access to Stradun, the main promenade, where you can find restaurants and cafes.

Here are the advantages of staying in the Old Town!

1. Walkable access to main sights like Pile Gate and the Dubrovnik City Walls.
2. Historical accommodation options like apartments with centuries-old architecture.
3. Boutique hotels, such as Stari Grad and Hotel Pucic Palace, provide personalized luxury.

Old Town Dubrovnik is the best area for first-time visitors or those on short stays, offering a unique blend of historical charm. The central location allows easy access to iconic sites like Pile Gate and Stradun, making exploration convenient.

However, staying in the Old Town comes with some trade-offs. The prime location often results in higher accommodation costs, occasional street noise, and limited parking options. Many accommodations also require navigating stairs because of the town’s medieval layout.

Despite these minor inconveniences, the charm and convenience of being in the heart of Dubrovnik’s historic center consistently outweigh these factors for most visitors. Staying here immerses you fully in the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

2. Ploče, The Best Location in Dubrovnik for Luxury and Views

Ploče is the best area in Dubrovnik for scenic views and luxury accommodations. This area is home to upscale hotels like Hotel Excelsior and Villa Dubrovnik, offering sweeping views of the Adriatic and Old Town.

Located just a short walk from the city walls, staying in Ploče allows you to balance easy access to historical sites with a quieter, more tranquil setting. It’s a peaceful residential area with top-notch 5-star accommodations and breathtaking vistas of the sea and old town.

The Ploce neighborhood boasts remarkable landmarks like Banje, St. Jakov, and Betina beaches. Orsula Park is ideal for a romantic picnic, while the Lazareti music club offers an authentic taste of Dubrovnik’s nightlife. Additionally, the lower station of the cable car is conveniently situated in the Ploce area!

• The advantages of staying in Ploče are listed below.
  • Close proximity to Old Town, yet quieter and more residential.
  • Luxury hotels with sea views and private beaches.
  • Ideal for couples looking for a romantic retreat.
  • Perfect for those driving in, as many accommodations provide parking.

The Ploce neighborhood in Dubrovnik is ideal for couples, offering stunning views, excellent hotels, beautiful beaches, and Orsula Park for romantic picnics.

One downside of staying in the Ploce area is its steep incline, which results in considerable uphill walking and numerous stairs to navigate when accessing certain private apartments. However, most hotels require less climbing.

3. Dubrovnik’s Pile Area For Nightlife and Convenience

Pile is a charming neighborhood just outside the Old Town walls, offering both convenience and slightly more affordable accommodation options. It is home to the famous Pile Gate, the main entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

This area is ideal for visitors who want to be close to the historical center but prefer more affordable accommodation. Pile serves as Dubrovnik’s central transport hub, featuring a bus stop to the old town, the primary coach tour stop, and a taxi stand just outside the Pile Gate.

Pile’s main landmarks include Lovrijenac Fortress, Gradac Park, and Šulić and Dance Beach.

In Pile, you’ll find smaller guesthouses and apartments, many more affordable than those inside Old Town. Hotel Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is also located in the Pile neighborhood.

• The advantages of staying in Pile are listed below!
  • Close proximity to Old Town: Just a short walk to the Stradun and the major attractions, such as the Dubrovnik City Walls.
  • Varied accommodation options: From boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, such as Villa Flores and Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik.
  • Easy access to transport: The area is well-connected by bus lines, and Pile Gate is a major transportation hub.
  • Coastal views: Some accommodations in Pile offer beautiful views of the sea and Fort Lovrijenac, a historic fortress that overlooks the Adriatic.

The Pile neighborhood is the top area for nightlife in Dubrovnik, featuring popular bars and clubs. Visitors often choose to stay in Pile due to its proximity to the old town, making it ideal for those who enjoy late-night drink and slightly more affordable rates than the old town.

Staying in Pile allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—the vibrancy of the Old Town combined with the convenience of a slightly more affordable neighborhood. Additionally, Pile provides easy access to beaches like Šulić Beach, a short walk from the city walls, offering a secluded spot to relax after exploring.

Despite its central location and scenic attractions, staying in the Pile neighborhood has minor inconveniences. Due to its status as a main transport hub, the area experiences chaotic traffic, and a steep incline to some accommodations poses a challenge for those not accustomed to uphill walks. Additionally, street noise from the nearby old town and busy routes can disrupt the tranquility travelers often seek.

4. Babin Kuk and Lapad, the Best Areas in Dubrovnik for Beaches and Relaxation

Lapad and Babin Kuk are the best parts of Dubrovnik for beaches and relaxation. Lapad offers a mix of family-friendly resorts and beachfront hotels like Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, providing a quiet retreat just a short bus ride from the Old Town.

Babin Kuk is perfect for those wanting resort-style accommodations, with large hotels such as Sunny Dubrovnik by Valamar offering all-inclusive packages and easy access to Copacabana Beach.

Bus number 6, which runs every 15 to 20 minutes, conveniently connects Lapad and Babin Kuk to the old town.

• Advantages of Staying in Lapad and Babin Kuk:
  • Ideal for families with children or travelers looking to avoid crowds.
  • Perfect for longer stays of 5 days or more in Dubrovnik.
  • Hotels like Valamar Lacroma and Valamar President are full-service hotels offering half- and full-board services.
  • Close to scenic walking trails along the coastline.

Lapad is a lively peninsula northwest of Dubrovnik’s old town, known for its mix of full-service beachside hotels and vacation rentals, making it family-friendly. Babin Kuk, an upscale suburb on the northern part of Lapad, boasts world-class hotels and popular beaches like Copacabana, with convenient bus access to the old town.

While Lapad and Babin Kuk offer modern accommodations and nice beaches, some travelers find their distance from the old town, which requires a taxi or bus ride, inconvenient. Additionally, these newer neighborhoods lack the historical charm and character that define other Dubrovnik locations.

5. Gruž, The Best Part of Dubrovnik for Budget Travelers

Gruž is the best area to stay for budget travelers and those catching ferries to nearby islands. This is Dubrovnik’s main port and a residential neighborhood, offering guesthouses and budget hotels like Hotel Petka.

Besides the main ferry port, the Gruz area is home to the central bus station, an open-air market, and restaurants like Bistro Glorijet and Orsan Yacht Club. Gruz is Dubrovnik’s primary arrival point for cruise ship passengers and is ideal for exploring Mljet Island or taking day trips to the Elaphiti Islands.

Accommodation in Gruz is more affordable, making it a great budget option, while public bus no. 1 connects it to the old town, with frequent departures and a travel time of 15 to 20 minutes.

• Here are the advantages of staying in Gruž!
  • Budget-friendly accommodation close to ferry terminals and bus stations.
  • Easy access to the Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, Korcula, or Split.
  • A quieter, more residential area.

The drawbacks of staying in the Gruz area of Dubrovnik include the distance from the old town, which requires public transportation or longer walks to access main attractions. The area also lacks the polish of other neighborhoods.

What are the Best Accommodations in Dubrovnik?

The best accommodations in Dubrovnik range from luxury to boutique to budget options. Dubrovnik is known for its luxury hotels, especially in areas like Ploče and Lapad, while Old Town, Pile, and Ploce areas offer plenty of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and apartment rentals. Gruž offers plenty of budget-friendly options.

What are the Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik?

The best luxury hotels in Dubrovnik are Hotel Excelsior, Villa Dubrovnik, Hotel Bellevue, and Hotel Dubrovnik Palace. These hotels offer world-class amenities, stunning sea views, and proximity to the city’s best attractions.

• These are the top luxury hotels in Dubrovnik.
  • Hotel Excelsior offers panoramic views of the Old Town and Adriatic Sea.
  • Villa Dubrovnik is a luxurious hotel with private beach access and a serene setting.
  • Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, located in Lapad, offers a secluded beachfront experience.
  • Hotel Bellevue offers private beach access and modern, upscale amenities in a spectacular cliffside location.

What are the Best Boutique Hotels in Dubrovnik?

For a more intimate and personalized experience, boutique hotels like Hotel Pucić Palace in the Old Town or Boutique Hotel Kazbek in Lapad are ideal. These hotels combine luxury with a more intimate atmosphere, often in historic buildings with unique designs and personalized service.

• Top Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses are listed below.
  • Hotel Pucić Palace is a small luxury hotel located in a 17th-century palace in Old Town.
  • Boutique Hotel Kazbek, located in Lapad, offers a blend of historical charm and modern comfort.
  • Bota Palace, set in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace, features 5 modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms and views over Stradun.

What are the Best Budget Hotels in Dubrovnik?

The best budget hotels in Dubrovnik are in areas like Gruž and Lapad, with affordable options such as Hotel Petka and Hotel Lero. These cheap hotels in Dubrovnik’s new town provide clean, comfortable rooms with easy access to public transportation.

• Here are top budget hotels in Dubrovnik.
  • Hotel Perla: A convenient, budget-friendly hotel near the Sunset Beach.
  • Hotel Ivka: Located between Gruž and Lapad, offering good value for money.

What are the Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Dubrovnik?

The best family-friendly hotels in Dubrovnik are in Lapad and Babin Kuk, where resorts offer kid-friendly amenities like pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Sunny Dubrovnik by Valamar is one of the top choices for families, providing a variety of family suites and activities tailored to children.

• Here are the Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Dubrovnik.
  • Sunny Dubrovnik by Valamar: A resort with plenty of activities for kids.
  • Valamar Tirena Hotel: Offers family rooms and beachfront access.

What are the best beach hotels in Dubrovnik?

The best beach hotels in Dubrovnik are in Lapad and Babin Kuk locations. However, some beach hotels in Dubrovnik, like Hotel Excelsior and Hotel Villa Dubrovnik, are also closer to the Old Town. Here are some of the top beach hotels!

• Valamar Collection President Hotel is a beachfront hotel with sun decks, parasols, a towel service, a beach bar, and a panoramic elevator that takes guests from the hotel directly to the beach.
• Villa Dubrovnik has a private beach with comfy loungers, parasols, and beachside cocktails.
• Hotel Bellevue is known for its natural beauty and fine pebble shoreline with cliffs, rocks, a swim-friendly sea cave, and a great restaurant.

What are the Best Airbnb and Apartment Rentals in Dubrovnik?

The best Airbnb and apartments in Dubrovnik are listed below.

• The Byron features three spacious rooms, each with a kitchenette, in a beautifully restored historical building in the Old Town.
• Villa Ragusa Vecchia offers apartments in the Ploce area with a shared rooftop terrace, lots of character, and friendly owners.
• L’Orangerie Dubrovnik Luxury Residence offers modern apartments ranging from 80 to 170 m2 and steps away from Sunset Beach.

What are the best hostels in Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik’s best hostels are Hostel Angelina Old Town, for its central location and communal vibe, and Hostel Sol, for its affordable rates and friendly staff.

What are the best campsites in Dubrovnik?

Camping Solitudo, in the Babin Kuk area, is the only campsite in Dubrovnik. Open from April to October, it offers 400 pitches for up to 1,200 guests and comfortable mobile home accommodations. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, children’s entertainment, a grocery store, a bar, and a grill restaurant.

Where to Stay for the Best Views in Dubrovnik?

For the best views in Dubrovnik, stay in Ploče or Babin Kuk. Ploče provides stunning panoramic views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea, while Babin Kuk offers picturesque seaside views with more privacy.

• Best View Hotels:
  • Hotel Excelsior overlooks the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.
  • Villa Dubrovnik offers private balconies with Old Town and sea views.
  • Valamar Collection President Hotel offers large balconies with endless sea views.

Map of the best hotels in Dubrovnik

How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Dubrovnik?

Accommodation prices in Dubrovnik vary significantly depending on location, type, and season.

During peak season, luxury hotels and upscale boutique hotels in Dubrovnik range from €400 to €700 per night. These include 5-star properties such as Hotel Excelsior and Villa Dubrovnik, but also boutique hotels and guesthouses in Old Town such as Prijeko Palace and Guesthouse Forty-Four, which offer premium services, sea views, and proximity to key attractions.

Mid-range 4* hotels are more affordable, costing between €250 and €400 per night. These hotels are typical in areas like Lapad, Babin Kuk, and Pile, offering a good balance of comfort and accessibility. The 3* hotels are even more affordable, priced from €170 to €250 for a double room with breakfast.

For budget travelers, accommodation options such as hostels and apartments are widely available in neighborhoods like Gruž and Lapad. Apartment rentals typically range from €130 to €250 per night, depending on the area.

Hostels in Dubrovnik, such as Hostel Sol, cost around €50 to €70 per night per person.

Seasonal Variations in Accommodation Costs

Accommodation prices in Dubrovnik fluctuate based on the time of year. Peak season (June to September) generally sees prices rise by 50%-100% compared to the shoulder seasons (April-May and October), while off-season (November to March) prices drop significantly, making it a more affordable time to visit. Luxury properties are costly year-round, but budget and mid-range options are often more accessible outside peak season.

What are the tips to help you save on accommodation in Dubrovnik?

Below are some tips to help you save on accommodation in Dubrovnik!

• Some hotel chains in Dubrovnik, particularly Valamar Hotels and Resorts, offer exceptional value by including meals like breakfast and dinner in their pricing.
• Booking early with a flexible cancellation policy often results in a great price. This flexibility allows you to rebook your accommodation at no extra cost if a better deal arises at the last minute.
• Choosing accommodation farther away from the Old Town, such as Lapad or Babin Kuk, often saves you significant money without sacrificing quality.
• Consider staying in an apartment or hostel instead of a hotel. This way, you save on eating out by cooking your meals.
• Look for deals and discounts offered by hotels in case of slow demand. Many properties offer discounted rates or extras like complimentary breakfast during this time.
• Consider visiting Dubrovnik during shoulder season, where you’ll find lower rates without compromising on the weather. The city is still pleasant but not as crowded, making exploring easier.
• Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices directly with accommodation providers. Sometimes they offer discounts if you book directly with them.
• Lastly, staying in towns and villages close to Dubrovnik, such as Cavtat, Mlini, or Slano, costs less than staying in Dubrovnik.

What are the Best Places to Stay Near Dubrovnik?

The best places to stay near Dubrovnik are Cavtat, Mlini, and Zaton. These three offer quieter, more affordable alternatives with easy access to the city.

Cavtat is a picturesque town 20 km south of Dubrovnik, known for its serene harbor and historical charm. It’s ideal for those seeking peace while still being close to Dubrovnik. Top accommodations include Hotel Croatia Cavtat and Hotel Supetar, offering luxury and sea views.

Mlini, just 10 km southeast, is a tranquil seaside village with calm beaches. The nearby Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel provides modern luxury and is great for families or couples.

Zaton, 10 km northwest of Dubrovnik, is a scenic bay area perfect for a peaceful retreat. The resort Sun Gardens Dubrovnik offers a variety of accommodation options, including apartments and villas, with access to pools and beaches.

These towns provide relaxing alternatives to Dubrovnik while offering quick access to the city’s main attractions.

Know Before You Go!

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik is exciting and overwhelming, given its various choices. This concise Dubrovnik travel guide provides essential tips on accommodation options, helping you find the best places to stay while balancing your budget and proximity to the city. Discover how nearby towns like Cavtat, Mlini, and Slano can offer unique experiences without straying too far from the heart of Dubrovnik.

How Close Should You Stay to Dubrovnik’s Main Attractions?

Proximity is key if you prioritize easy access to the city’s main attractions. Staying in or near Old Town gives you immediate access to Dubrovnik City Walls, Pile Gate, and Stradun. For a balance between convenience and a more tranquil stay, consider Pile or Ploče.

• Old Town: Walking distance to historical landmarks.
• Pile: Just outside the Old Town walls but quieter.
• Ploče: Scenic views and short walks to the Old Town.

Should You Stay in the Old Town or Outside?

You should stay in the Old Town if you visit Dubrovnik for the first time or if your stay is short, typically up to three days. The Old Town offers easy access to historical landmarks such as Stradun, Pile Gate, and the Dubrovnik City Walls, allowing you to maximize your time exploring the city’s most famous sights. The charm of staying inside the Old Town also immerses you in Dubrovnik’s history and culture.

However, staying outside the Old Town is more comfortable and practical if you’re staying longer. Areas like Lapad, Babin Kuk, and Ploce offer larger accommodation options, such as rooms or apartments with terraces, where you can enjoy more space and modern amenities.

These areas also provide easier access to beaches, like Lapad Bay and Copacabana Beach, making them ideal for a more leisurely stay. Staying outside the Old Town is also better if you have budget restraints, as you’ll find more affordable accommodation options compared to the higher prices within the city walls.

How long should you stay in Dubrovnik?

The ideal length of stay in Dubrovnik is 3 to 4 days. This provides enough time to explore the Old Town and visit key landmarks like the Dubrovnik City Walls, Rector’s Palace, and Lokrum Island while allowing for some relaxation at the nearby beaches.

Staying 5 to 7 days is ideal if you’re interested in day trips to surrounding areas like Konavli, Elaphiti Islands, or even Montenegro and Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina or prefer a more leisurely pace. This time frame gives you a fuller experience of the city and the surrounding region.

What are the must-do Dubrovnik tours?

There are many things to do in Dubrovnik that are for everybody’s taste and budget. You won’t get bored if you stay in Dubrovnik for a few days or an entire week. Below, you will find some Dubrovnik tours and activities that we recommend:

• Sunset Sea Kayaking Tour with Snack
• 2-Hour Game of Thrones Tour
• 1.5-Hour Old Town Guided Walking Tour
• Mostar Full-Day Trip 
• Montenegro Day Trip
• Elafiti Islands Day Cruise Onboard Karaka Ship

Do you need a car in Dubrovnik?

You don’t need a car in Dubrovnik if you only plan to stay there. Having a car in Dubrovnik is more trouble than it’s worth. Parking is both limited and expensive, and the narrow, congested streets often make navigating a challenge.

On the bright side, Dubrovnik offers reliable public transport and an abundance of taxis, and walking is always a viable option. So, renting a car is unnecessary if your plans are centered around Dubrovnik.

However, renting a car is a good idea if you intend to spend a few days in Dubrovnik before exploring the coast—whether heading to Split, Pelješac, or taking day trips to Mostar or Montenegro. A car provides greater freedom and significantly reduces travel time compared to buses.

We recommend checking out Rentalcars.com for great deals if you decide to rent a car in Dubrovnik.

Further reading

• A Complete Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Best Restaurants In Dubrovnik
• Things To Do In Dubrovnik
• Top 14 Day Trips From Dubrovnik
• How To Get From Dubrovnik To Split
• Split or Dubrovnik: Where to go first?
• Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik Beaches
• Bars & Nightlife
• Things To Do Beyond The City Walls
• Sea Kayaking, the most popular activity in the town
• Visiting Elafiti Islands
• Karaman Wine Tour
• A Visit To Sokol Grad
• D’Vino Wine Bar
• Bota, The Oyster & Sushi Bar