Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik with Kids (2024)
Dubrovnik seduces and charms, and with tourists unable to stay away, it is no longer the Mediterranean’s best-kept secret. Don’t let that keep you from visiting, because we are sharing the best things to do in Dubrovnik with kids.
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Along the Adriatic Sea on the Dalmatian Coast sits the beautiful city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. Once a bustling medieval seaport, today the Pearl of the Adriatic is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists from all over the world, boasting amazing coastlines and sparkling sapphire waters.
Well-preserved historic sites stand tall amidst fierce walls and an array of museums and cultural events celebrate tales from centuries past. Friendly residents and over 250 days of sunshine a year invite you to indulge in their fabulous fresh food and savor the warm Mediterranean climate. Croatia with kids doesn’t disappoint!
Is Dubrovnik Good for Kids?
Dubrovnik will not disappoint, offering families a mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty!
This lovely city is famous for its stunning medieval Old Town, encircled by massive stone walls that date to the 16th century. In fact, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its historic architecture, charming streets, and breathtaking views.
The city is walkable and safe, with plenty of kid-friendly attractions. Families can explore the Old Town, visit the Maritime Museum, or take a cable car ride up Mount Srđ to enjoy panoramic views. Dubrovnik has even gained fame in recent years as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones!
For a cultural experience, take a food tour to try the local cuisine. With fresh seafood and tasty treats, you will find something for even your pickiest eater.
If your family craves adventure, there are various outdoor activities to choose from. There are places for kayaking, boat trips, and ferries to nearby islands. Prefer to relax? The crystal-clear sea and pebble beaches are perfect for a beach day.
What to Do in Dubrovnik with Kids
Explore the Dubrovnik Old Town
Surrounded by medieval walls that have withstood the test of time, this pedestrian-only marble-paved town is a living museum. There are treasures of Baroque, Renaissance, and Medieval palaces and churches on every corner.
The main street, known as Stradun, is the favorite walkway for tourists. This beautiful, wide limestone-paved avenue runs through the heart of the Old Town, connecting the Pile Gate in the west to the Ploče Gate in the east.
Lined with historic buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants, the Stradun is the pulse of Dubrovnik. A stroll here offers a vibrant atmosphere and plenty to see and do. If you’re visiting Dubrovnik with kids, be sure to stop in one of the massive candy shops offering all sorts of unique treats.
As you stroll along, you will pass by several of the city’s main historical landmarks. There’s Onofrio’s Fountain, the Church of St. Blaise, the Sponza Palace, Orlando’s Column, and more.
Make sure to rub the nose of the statue of Marin Drzic, the Croatian playwright and poet! The statue sits outside the Rector’s Palace in the Old Town. Touching its gold nose is said to bring good luck.
Walk Along the Dubrovnik City Walls
No trip to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk along the city walls that encircle the Old Town. About 1,940 meters long and a 2-hour journey, they provide a glimpse of Dubrovnik from a completely different angle. As you want along these ancient city walls, you will find some of the best historical landmarks to visit in Dubrovnik with kids.
Pile Gate is one of the main entrances on the western side of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and a significant part of the city walls. Built in the 15th century, it’s a grand stone gateway featuring a bridge and a statue of St. Blaise (Dubrovnik’s patron saint).
If you’re on the eastern side, Ploce Gate is another main entrance to Old Town. It’s similar to Pile Gate but is much less crowded.
Located near Pile Gate is Minčeta Tower, the highest point in the city. Here you can take in views of the Adriatic, the red-tiled roofs of the city, and the maze of medieval streets.
There’s also St. John Fortress on the southeastern side which protected Dubrovnik from naval attacks. It now houses the Maritime Museum and Aquarium. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on Dubrovnik’s seafaring history, including model ships, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts.
Take a self-guided walk or buy tickets for a group tour and hear stories about Dubrovnik’s 1,400-year history.
Pro tip: Visit the walls of Dubrovnik first thing in the morning before it gets too hot, or late in the evening after all of the day trippers have left.
Contemplate Amidst St. Blaise Church
This 18th-century Baroque-style church stands in the center of the Old Town, off Luza Square. It is crowned with a gold dome and a towering statue of Saint Blaise, the patron saint and protector of Dubrovnik.
It’s worth noting that the old church was destroyed during the fire of 1706. The only thing that survived intact was the gold-plated statue of St. Blasius, which adorns the altar to this day.
The wide staircase outside the entrance of the church is a popular spot for visitors to rest and watch the crowds.
Indulge at the Pharmacy of the Franciscan Monastery
Continuously operating since 1317, the Old Pharmacy is one of the oldest in Europe and a must-see for every tourist. It’s located inside the monastery just inside Old Town’s Pile Gate, on the left-hand side.
Founded as an in-house pharmacy for Franciscan friars, it was later introduced to the public beyond the town’s walls.
Inside, glass cases display rare manuscripts, pharmaceutical manuals, secret elixirs, and local wild herb remedies. With the wonderful herbal scents seducing visitors to their doors, it is difficult to leave without purchasing some mementos!
Popular products are the Aqua Lavandulae cream, rose oil, cold pressed almond and olive soap, and of course, the bergamot oil and cocoa butter wrinkle-proof cream.
Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral
The Dubrovnik Cathedral (or the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary) is another essential visit in Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Built in the late 17th century after an earthquake destroyed the original Romanesque church, the cathedral was rebuilt and features stunning Baroque architecture both inside and out.
Visitors can enter the cathedral for free. Inside is some beautiful religious art. For a small fee, you can also tour the cathedral’s treasury, which houses a collection of historic pieces, including gold and silver artifacts and relics of St. Blaise.
Climb the Dubrovnik Bell Tower
Soaring high above the Stradun, the Bell Tower (or Clock Tower) in Dubrovnik is a magnificent landmark you have to see in person! It’s across from the 16th-century Sponza Palace, which itself is worth a visit!
Recently opened to visitors, climb up to see two bronze statues known as Maro and Baro. They strike the bell on the full hour, repeating the strike after 3 minutes and a single clang on the half hour.
Each blow propels hundreds of pigeons into the air which is quite a sight. Dubrovnik’s famous bell strikers have now turned a tint of green from the salt air and are aptly called the green men.
Explore the Old Port
Visiting the Old Port, or Old Harbour, is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik with kids. Once a bustling maritime hub, it’s now a popular tourist attraction with a variety of things to do.
One of the top things to do here is to hop on a ferry to nearby Lokrum Island or join a guided boat tour to explore the coastline and its hidden gems. The Old Port is also home to the Maritime Museum in St. John Fortress.
If you’re hungry, visit one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the waterfront. You can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the stunning sea views. This is the perfect place to grab some ice cream, stroll along the waterfront, admire historic buildings, watch boats, and enjoy the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Take a Boat Ride to Lokrum Island
Lokrum was reportedly a shelter to King Richard the Lionheart while he was shipwrecked during the Third Crusade, but today it is a favorite day trip from Dubrovnik. The island has gorgeous views of Dubrovnik on one side and the open sea on the other.
To reach Lokrum from Dubrovnik, grab a quick taxi-boat ride from the Old Harbor. The island is a nature reserve, home to a botanical garden, olive groves, swimming holes, and an abandoned 12th-century Benedictine monastery. More adventurous souls can visit Lokrum via a kayaking tour.
Take a dip in the Dead Sea, a small salt-filled lake just 10 meters deep and surprisingly easy to swim in. Without hotels or the commotions of a city, this idyllic spot is filled with sunbathers, the scent of pine and sea salt, and peacocks, one of its only inhabitants.
According to legend, the Lokrum curse, which took the lives of those who tried to make Lokrum their home, is still alive today! As soon as dusk falls, visitors should plan to depart the island and head back to the city.
Water Sports in Dubrovnik with Kids
Dubrovnik offers a fantastic variety of water sports for adventure lovers The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea provide the perfect setting for activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
For kayaking, head to the area around Pile Gate. From here, you can join a guided sea kayaking tour around the city walls and to nearby Lokrum Island. You will explore hidden caves and secluded beaches for a truly unique perspective of Dubrovnik from the water.
Snorkeling and scuba diving trips are popular around Lokrum Island and the Elafiti Islands. You can book these from the Old Port. If you want to book in advance, this half-day tour to Lokrum Island includes all your gear, snacks, and guidance from experienced instructors, so no experience is necessary.
If you’re interested in sailing, boat rentals and sailing tours are available at the Old Port. These tours offer a relaxing way to explore the Adriatic, with options ranging from half-day trips to full-day excursions.
Relax on the Beach
If you stay outside the walls of Old Town Dubrovnik, odds are you will walk past one of the city’s beaches. One of the most popular is the beautiful Banje Beach. You can rent lounge chairs and there’s a restaurant next to the beach. It has stunning views of the Old Town walls.
One of the best beaches in Dubrovnik for families is Uvala Lapad Beach on Lapad Bay. This charming pebble beach offers calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
It has tons of amenities, like a promenade with cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops. You can rent sun beds and umbrellas for the day. During the summer there is a floating playground with slides, trampolines, and an obstacle course!
If you’re looking for more places away from the crowds, check out these Dubrovnik beaches.
Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car to the Top of Mount Srd
The Dubrovnik cable car takes riders from just above the Old Town to the top of Mount Srd. The mountain within the city walls was once home to Napoleon’s Imperial Fortress and a strategic vantage point for centuries.
The ride to the top takes less than 5 minutes and provides breathtaking panoramic views. You can see Old Town and its massive walls, the beautiful Adriatic, nearby islands, and even a glimpse of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Spend time up on the mount and visit the big cross. Enjoy a drink and incredible food at the Panorama Restaurant and Bar. You could even book a dune buggy tour through the rugged landscape.
While the choices are many, the star attraction is the magnificent view. This is the perfect spot to fully understand the rich history and deep beauty of Dubrovnik.
Check out the Red History Museum
Beyond Old Town, there are a variety of wonderful cultural experiences. One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is visit the Red History Museum, located in a historic factory in Gruz (the Port of Dubrovnik).
This unique museum is a refreshing change to the traditional historical sites, highlighting the more modern history of communism in Croatia and the former Yugoslavia in the 20th century.
It’s designed to be highly interactive, with different hands-on exhibits that the kids can touch, explore, and experience history firsthand.
It’s not specifically for kids, but they’ll love all the cool dioramas, doors to open, and immersive experiences. They can sit in a recreated classroom from the communist era, explore a typical apartment, and even try on vintage clothes!
The Red History Museum also features multimedia displays, including videos, photographs, and audio recordings.
Don’t Miss a Game of Thrones Tour
If you’re a fan of the hit show, Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik doesn’t disappoint. The medieval city was the perfect stand-in for Kings Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms!
Throughout the historic city center, are Game of Thrones locations where some of your favorite scenes took place. The famous walls, fortresses, and churches of Dubrovnik all pose as spectacular backdrops to the mighty battles and brave heroes of the epic TV series.
You could simply walk around the city and find easy-to-recognize film sites (also some of the most popular landmarks in the city), or you could take a walking tour. Whether you’re an avid fan or just a curious spectator, there are many Game of Thrones tours to choose from.
Another option is a cruise on board Karaka, the ship used in filming the series. It’s quite the ultimate experience! During this boat tour, your guide shares interesting facts, exciting stories, and insider tips from the filming in Dubrovnik and introduces the legendary Kings Landing.
Of course, official GOT merchandise is available for purchase throughout the city center. Winter. Is. Coming.
Try an Escape Room
When your crew needs a break from historical sites for some casual fun, it’s time to head to Puzzle Punks, an escape room in Dubrovnik’s Lapa area.
The site features two different escape rooms. One is Game of Thrones-themed, and the other is based on the legends and history of Dubrovnik itself.
Attend the Dubrovnik Summer Festival
For theater lovers or families with theater kids, this one’s for you. If you’re visiting Dubrovnik during the summer, consider attending the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.
This historic cultural event is held annually from early July to late August, transforming the city into a stage for performing arts. Established in 1950, it’s Croatia’s oldest cultural festival and features an array of performances and events, surrounding theater, music, dance, and opera.
But that’s not all! The festival offers attendees the opportunity to sign up for workshops and demonstrations, from talks with artists to masterclasses in vocal training. Art lovers can also enjoy special art installations and presentations.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Dubrovnik’s historic sites, like the Rector’s Palace, Lovrijenac Fortress, and open-air venues throughout the Old Town, the festival showcases both local and international artists. You can attend classical music concerts, Shakespearean plays, and contemporary dance performances.
The festival features a diverse program and unique locations, making it an unforgettable cultural experience for visitors of all ages. Each day’s line-up of events includes both ticketed and free events. Do your research, because some performances require formal attire.
Tip: We recommend purchasing tickets in advance because this is a very popular festival.
Eat Dubrovnik Specialties
One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik with kids is to sample the region’s delicious and diverse cuisine. Heavily influenced by Mediterranean flavors and fresh local ingredients, here are some must-try foods:
Seafood
Being a coastal city, Dubrovnik has a wealth of fresh seafood dishes. Grilled fish, calamari, and octopus salad are local favorites. The seafood risotto is amazing, and the black risotto made with squid ink is famous!
Peka
One of the most popular meals in Croatia (and the most tourist-friendly) is Peka. In this traditional Croatian dish, meat (usually lamb or veal) and vegetables are slow-cooked under a bell-like dome covered with hot coals, giving it a rich, smoky flavor.
Dirty Macaroni
Yes, that’s what it’s called! Dubrovnik’s Dirty Macaroni, or “Makaruli Šporki,” is a traditional dish featuring pasta cooked with a rich meat sauce of beef or veal, tomatoes, and red wine.
Rozata
For dessert, try Rozata, a Dubrovnik specialty very similar to flan or crème brûlée. Made with eggs, milk, sugar, and flavored with rose liqueur, it’s a creamy, delightful treat.
Bitter Oranges
Dubrovnik is probably best known for its bitter oranges, and you can find the colorful fruit trees throughout the city courtyards. While you can’t eat them raw, you can sample the fruit in the form of marmalade or candied peels.
Ice Cream and Gelato
Ice cream is a thing in Dubrovnik, and the city is famous for its top-notch ice cream and gelato cafes! Stop at Peppino’s Gelato in Old Town to try all their delicious flavors.
Dubrovnik Food Tour
If you prefer to leave things up to the experts, consider booking a Dubrovnik food tour. Enjoy the city’s delicacies while also taking in the city’s most famous historical landmarks.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Many people like to stay inside the city walls, but there are many properties that are easy walking distance to town.
We stayed at Grand Villa Argentina, which was right on the water with gorgeous views of Old Town and Lokrum Island. Other properties to consider include the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik and Rixos Premium Dubrovnik. There are also plenty of vacation rentals available in Dubrovnik.
About the author: This post was written by Kavi Mirchandani Larson. She is a mom to four. Wife to one. Collector of experiences in her everyday journey through motherhood, wellness, travel, food, and living abundantly.
About the editor: This post was updated by Elizabeth Ramos. She’s a former preschool teacher in Brooklyn, New York who now spends her time writing about early childhood education, travel with kids, and mom life in general. You will usually find her exploring NYC with her partner and daughter or hiking upstate.