Our guide on the most common Mistakes To Avoid In Dubrovnik for your next trip.
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning Croatian city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful coastline, and vibrant culture.
Dubrovnik, Croatia’s shimmering jewel on the Adriatic, is a destination that captures the imagination of travelers with its medieval walls, terracotta rooftops, and crystal-clear sea. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” it draws millions each year eager to walk its historic streets, swim in hidden coves, and indulge in fresh seafood feasts. However, behind its postcard-perfect façade are logistical and cultural nuances that can frustrate unprepared visitors, leaving them with avoidable regrets.
From arriving at the wrong time of day to underestimating costs and ignoring local etiquette, small missteps can quickly turn your dream trip into an overpriced or crowded ordeal. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more deeply, knowing what not to do in Dubrovnik will help you save money, avoid crowds, and experience its authentic rhythms beyond the typical tourist traps.
This guide highlights 10 common mistakes tourists make in Dubrovnik and how to avoid them, ensuring your visit is filled with awe-inspiring views, memorable meals, and cultural understanding rather than disappointment or logistical stress.
What is The Best Way From Dubrovnik Airport to City Center?
The best way from Dubrovnik airport is by shuttle bus for €8 that you can book online and 30 minutes travel time.
Read here How to get from Dubrovnik Airport to city center
Read here best Croatia sim card for tourist and a comparison Split vs Dubrovnik
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Quick & Easy Tips
Visit early morning or late evening to avoid peak cruise ship crowds that fill the Old Town during midday.
Carry cash in Croatian kuna. Some small shops and local buses don’t accept cards, despite Dubrovnik being a major tourist hub.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. The marble streets of the Old Town can be slippery, especially when wet.
One controversial reality is the impact of overtourism on Dubrovnik’s residents. While tourism fuels the local economy, it also inflates housing prices and crowds daily life for locals. Critics argue that the city has become more of an open-air museum catering to tourists than a functional town for its citizens. Visitors who treat Dubrovnik merely as a theme park, without respect for local routines or businesses beyond the main streets, contribute to this imbalance.
Another issue is the influx of cruise ships. While they bring thousands of visitors daily, boosting short-term spending, many locals argue that cruise tourists spend little money compared to overnight guests and strain public infrastructure without contributing to long-term economic sustainability. This dynamic fuels resentment among residents, especially when streets become impassable during peak hours.
Finally, there’s a cultural critique about “Game of Thrones tourism.” While the show boosted Dubrovnik’s profile globally, many travelers visit solely for filming locations, ignoring the city’s deep history as a maritime republic and its rich cultural heritage. Locals argue that while fandom tourism is welcome, respecting the city’s real history and culture is essential for meaningful travel.
Mistakes To Avoid In Dubrovnik
1. Visiting Only During Peak Season
Mistake:
Crowds and High Prices: Dubrovnik is extremely popular in the summer months (June to August), leading to crowded streets, long lines, and high prices.
How to Avoid:
Travel Off-Season: Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to October) when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds and prices are more manageable.
Early or Late in the Day: If you must visit during peak season, explore early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds.
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2. Not Exploring Beyond the Old Town
Mistake:
Missing Out on Diverse Experiences: Many tourists spend all their time in Dubrovnik’s Old Town and miss out on other beautiful and interesting parts of the city.
How to Avoid:
Explore Other Areas: Take time to visit places like Lapad Bay, Gruž Harbor, and the surrounding islands (e.g., Lokrum Island and the Elafiti Islands).
Day Trips: Consider day trips to nearby attractions such as Cavtat, Mljet National Park, or the Pelješac Peninsula.
3. Overlooking Local Cuisine
Mistake:
Sticking to Tourist Restaurants: Eating only at restaurants within the Old Town that cater primarily to tourists, missing out on authentic Croatian cuisine.
How to Avoid:
Eat Where Locals Eat: Look for restaurants outside the main tourist areas or ask locals for recommendations.
Try Local Dishes: Sample traditional Croatian dishes like peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables), black risotto, and fresh seafood.
Read here best traditional breakfast in Croatia and best Croatian food
4. Ignoring the Dress Code for Religious Sites
Mistake:
Inappropriate Attire: Visiting religious sites without adhering to the dress code, which can be seen as disrespectful.
How to Avoid:
Dress Modestly: When visiting churches and monasteries, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Bring a light scarf or shawl to cover up if needed.
5. Neglecting to Bring Cash
Mistake:
Relying Solely on Cards: Assuming that all places accept credit cards, which can be problematic in smaller shops, markets, and local eateries.
How to Avoid:
Carry Cash: Always have some euros, since 2023 the Croatian Kuna was replaces, on hand for small purchases and tips. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash.
6. Skipping the City Walls Walk
Mistake:
Missing Iconic Views: Not walking the city walls, which offer some of the best views of Dubrovnik and its surrounding area.
How to Avoid:
Prioritize the Walk: Make sure to allocate time to walk the city walls. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
7. Underestimating the Heat and Sun
Mistake:
Sunburn and Dehydration: Not preparing for the intense Mediterranean sun, leading to sunburn and dehydration.
How to Avoid:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Use Sun Protection: Apply high-SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and use sunglasses.
Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade and avoid the midday sun when it’s strongest.
8. Forgetting Comfortable Footwear
Mistake:
Sore Feet: Wearing inappropriate footwear for walking on Dubrovnik’s cobblestone streets and steep stairs.
How to Avoid:
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
9. Not Booking Activities in Advance
Mistake:
Missing Out on Popular Activities: Arriving without pre-booking popular tours and activities, leading to sold-out experiences.
How to Avoid:
Book Ahead: Reserve tours, excursions, and tickets to major attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
Click here to book online Dubrovnik Day Tours and activities
10. Overlooking Public Transport and Walking
Mistake:
Unnecessary Expenses: Using taxis for short distances or not considering public transportation, which can be expensive and unnecessary.
How to Avoid:
Walk When Possible: Dubrovnik is a walkable city, especially within the Old Town.
Use Public Transport: Utilize the local bus system for longer distances. Purchase a Dubrovnik Card for access to public transport and discounts on attractions.
Final Thoughts
Dubrovnik is a destination that rewards those who travel mindfully. Beyond its famous walls lie quiet alleyways, family-run konobas serving fresh seafood, and hidden beaches with breathtaking views—all of which are missed by travelers rushing from one Instagram spot to another. By avoiding these common mistakes, you open yourself up to a more authentic, relaxed, and memorable Croatian experience.
Respect the city’s rhythm, engage with locals beyond transactional tourism, and take time to understand its proud and complex history. Learn a few Croatian phrases, visit in shoulder seasons, and seek experiences that support local businesses rather than just global tour operators. These small choices enrich your travel and make you a more welcome guest.
Ultimately, Dubrovnik isn’t just a beautiful stop on your European itinerary—it’s a living city with resilience, culture, and community woven into every stone. Approach your visit with humility, curiosity, and gratitude, and you’ll leave with more than photos: you’ll carry the warmth and wisdom of a city that has stood strong for centuries.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.