Travel Tips

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Introduction to Staying in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik isn’t just a city—it’s a living postcard. Stone walls, red rooftops, shimmering Adriatic waters, and history echoing from every corner. But here’s the big question most travelers ask before booking their flight: where to stay in Dubrovnik?

Choosing the right area can completely shape your experience. Want to wake up inside medieval walls? Prefer beachside calm? Traveling with family or chasing nightlife? Dubrovnik has an answer for everyone—you just need to know where to look.

Let’s break it down in plain English, neighborhood by neighborhood, so you can book smart and enjoy Dubrovnik like a pro.

Understanding Dubrovnik’s Neighborhoods

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik isn’t huge, but its areas feel very different. Think of it like a menu: Old Town is the rich main course, Lapad and Babin Kuk are the relaxing desserts, and Gruž is the budget-friendly special of the day.

Each neighborhood has its own vibe, price range, and perks.

Old Town (Stari Grad)

Why Stay in Dubrovnik Old Town

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: If Dubrovnik were a movie, Old Town would be the star actor. Staying here means stepping outside your door straight into history. Cafés, landmarks, museums, and famous streets like Stradun are literally at your feet.

Perfect if:

• It’s your first time in Dubrovnik
• You want to walk everywhere
• You love atmosphere and history

Best Hotels in Old Town

• Hotel Stari Grad – Boutique charm with rooftop views
• The Pucic Palace – Historic luxury in a 17th-century palace
• Boutique Hotel Porto – Stylish and central

Budget & Boutique Options

Old Town has limited space, so budget options are mostly:

• Guesthouses
• Private apartments
• Small boutique hotels

Pros and Cons of Staying Inside the Walls

Pros

• Unbeatable location
• Magical mornings and nights
• No transport needed

Cons

• Expensive
• Crowded during the day
• Lots of stairs (no cars allowed)

Ploče

Luxury Stays with Iconic Views

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Just east of Old Town, Ploče offers postcard views without the chaos. You’re close enough to walk to the Old Town but far enough to breathe.

Best Hotels in Ploče

• Hotel Excelsior – Celebrity-level luxury
• Villa Dubrovnik – Romantic and exclusive
• Hotel Bellevue – Dramatic cliffside setting

Who Should Stay in Ploče

• Couples
• Luxury travelers
• Honeymooners

If Old Town is a bustling theater, Ploče is the VIP balcony.

Pile

Close to Old Town Without the Crowds

Pile sits just outside the western gate of Old Town. You get easy access without paying Old Town prices.

Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik – Elegant and historic
• Hotel Uvala (nearby) – Spa-focused comfort

Transport & Accessibility

• Main bus stops nearby
• Airport shuttle drops here
• Easy walking access

Pile is a sweet spot for convenience lovers.

Lapad

Best Area for Families

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Lapad feels like a seaside town within a city. Wide promenades, beaches, parks, and plenty of space to relax.

Beaches, Promenade & Resorts

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Lapad Bay is one of the best swimming spots in Dubrovnik. Cafés line the promenade, making evenings relaxed and lively without being loud.

Best Hotels and Apartments in Lapad

• Hotel Lapad – Classic and affordable
• Hotel Kompas – Modern with sea views
• Apartments Dubrovnik Lapad – Great for families

Perfect balance of comfort, price, and atmosphere.

Babin Kuk

Peaceful & Resort-Style Living

Located further northwest, Babin Kuk is calm, green, and upscale. This is where you go to switch off.

Best Luxury Resorts in Babin Kuk

• Valamar Collection Dubrovnik President
• Royal Palm Hotel
• Valamar Argosy

Ideal for Relaxation Seekers

• Couples
• Families
• Resort lovers

Old Town is just a short bus or taxi ride away.

Gruž

Best Budget Area in Dubrovnik

Gruž is where locals live, shop, and work. It’s less touristy and much cheaper.

Local Markets & Ferry Port

• Main ferry terminal to islands
• Fresh food markets
• Authentic local vibe

Affordable Hotels & Guesthouses

• Hotel Petka
• Guest House Tomasi
• Private apartments

Ideal if you’re traveling on a budget but still want good connections.

Best Areas in Dubrovnik by Travel Style

Where to Stay for First-Time Visitors

• Old Town
• Pile

Where to Stay for Couples

• Ploče
• Babin Kuk

Where to Stay for Nightlife

• Old Town
• Lapad (summer bars)

Where to Stay on a Budget

• Gruž
• Lapad apartments

Hotels vs Apartments in Dubrovnik

Hotels

• Services and amenities
• Higher prices
• Great for short stays

Apartments

• More space
• Budget-friendly
• Ideal for families and longer stays

Dubrovnik is famous for its high-quality private apartments—don’t overlook them.

How Many Nights to Stay in Dubrovnik

• 2–3 nights: Highlights only
• 4–5 nights: Perfect balance
• 7+ nights: Explore islands, beaches, and relax

Best Time to Book Accommodation

• High season (June–August): Book 3–6 months ahead
• Shoulder season (May, September): Best value
• Low season (Winter): Cheapest but quieter

Final Tips Before Booking

• Check stairs and accessibility
• Confirm air-conditioning (summers are hot)
• Read reviews carefully
• Consider sea-view upgrades—it’s worth it

Conclusion

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: So, where should you stay in Dubrovnik? The answer depends on your travel style. Old Town for history lovers, Ploče for luxury seekers, Lapad for families, Babin Kuk for peace, and Gruž for budget travelers.

Dubrovnik isn’t just about where you go—it’s about where you wake up. Choose wisely, and this city will reward you with unforgettable memories.