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The historic charms within the old walled city of Dubrovnik, Croatia are absolutely captivating! Travelers can experience this enchanting destination on a Dubrovnik walking tour. Steep stairs and deep alleys lead to Old Town Dubrovnik sights from the famous Stradun. We created our Free Dubrovnik Self Guided Walking Tour to highlight all the top things to see!
Free Walking Tour of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Our free walking tour for Dubrovnik features 19 of the best places to see in the city. We include a brief introduction to each sight, a pin-drop of the location and step-by-step walking directions.
It could take as little as an hour to complete this Dubrovnik walk, but we suggest allowing at least 2. At the end of the article, we feature an Old Town Dubrovnik Map of sights.
Guided or Self-Guided Walking Tour Dubrovnik?
What we love about completing DIY Dubrovnik walks is that you can discover at your own pace, and on your own schedule. Those who want to avoid the crush of Dubrovnik crowds can set off on a self guided early morning walk. Alternatively, you can wait until the cruise ship passengers have left and enjoy a Dubrovnik self guided evening walking tour.
That said, some travelers prefer a guide lead the way to the top sights of the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. We feature some of the top rated tours (including Dubrovnik free walking tours that are tip based) at the end of the article.
Old Town Dubrovnik, Croatia History
Before you set off on your Dubrovnik city tour, it helps to understand a little bit about the history. Situated along the Dalmatian Coast, the city of Dubrovnik evolved from a maritime past.
The city thrived in the 14th and 15th centuries due to its merchant trade and natural resources. In 1667, a massive earthquake – followed by fires – damaged much of Dubrovnik. Afterwards, it was reconstructed in the architectural style we see today.
Protectors of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik has long had two great protectors: The fortified Old City Walls and it’s patron, St. Blaise.
Walls of Dubrovnik Old City
The preserved walls were built between the 12th and 17th centuries. A total of 1.2 miles of continuous stone walls surround Dubrovnik, with some sections as high as 82 feet.
Although confining the city, they are actually a symbol of freedom. Because of their protection, the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik’s former name) operated as a free state from 1358 until 1808.
Today, these walls – and the area within them – are one of the best preserved Medieval sites in Europe. Additionally, the entirety of Old Town Dubrovnik is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A Dubrovnik Wall Walk allows visitors to peer down into the lanes and out across the Adriatic Sea. Tickets are required to access the top of the Dubrovnik walls and it is best to buy your ticket in advance!
Patron Saint Blaise
St. Blaise is said to protect the Old City of Dubrovnik since the year 971, when he appeared and warned of an impending Venetian attack. That warning resulted in securing – and for a time, saving – Dubrovnik. Statues of St. Blaise, depicted with a long beard and carrying the city in one hand, can be spotted throughout town.
Dubrovnik Rulers
Dubrovnik was likely founded in the 7th century under the rule of the Byzantine Empire. In 1205, however, the Venetian Republic took control. In 1358, Ragusa gained independence and created strategic alliances. This allowed Ragusa many maritime liberties, and the small free state flourished.
However, the 1667 earthquake, coupled with the Age of Discovery, marked the beginning of the republic’s decline. In 1806, Ragusa fell to the French. Then, in 1814, control of Dubrovnik was handed to the Habsburgs and eventually the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
After World War I, Dubrovnik became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, and remained part of Yugoslavia after WW II. In 1991, the Republic of Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia, which resulted in a terrible 4-year war. The Homeland War, as it’s referred to in Croatia, lasted until 1995.
The Siege of Dubrovnik
During the Homeland War, Dubrovnik came under attack. The Yugoslav People’s Army advanced on the city, heavily bombing the Old Town.
The aggressive bombardment gained attention worldwide and prompted international reaction. During the siege, 194 Croatian troops and 88 civilians were killed. More than half of the buildings in Dubrovnik Old Town were destroyed or damaged.
Afterwards, Dubrovnik was quickly rebuilt. The only physical traces left from the war are the shrapnel marks on the buildings and the comparatively-new, bright-orange rooftops. The International Criminal Tribunal charged the aggressors with crimes against the people of Dubrovnik – as well as destruction of a cultural World Heritage Site.
Large maps hang at both gated entrances to Old Town Dubrovnik, marking all of the buildings that were damaged.
Free Sightseeing Dubrovnik Walking Tour
Despite the various rulers, numerous conflicts and the most recent siege of cruise ship passengers, the appealing charm of the historic city has remained. It only takes stepping inside the gates of Dubrovnik to feel it.
Whether seeking out specific sights with our Dubrovnik free walking tour or just wandering, you will find beauty at every turn. That said, check the Dubrovnik Cruise Ship Schedule for the days of your visit to prepare for the crowds.
#1 Pile Gate Dubrovnik
(MAP) Start your Dubrovnik Old Town Walking Tour at the western Pile Gate. From the Greek word for door, it is the main entrance and the natural starting place for Dubrovnik sightseeing tours.
The gate has two doors – and a statue of St. Blaise is prominently placed over both of them.The stone bridge that spans the deep trench was once a drawbridge that would be raised each night to keep invaders out.
#2 Dubrovnik Stradun
(MAP) Prior to the 13th century, the Stradun (sometimes called Placa) was marshland that divided Ragusa from the mainland. After it was filled in with white limestone, the street became the main thoroughfare in Dubrovnik Old Town. Most of the sights on our Free Dubrovnik Old Town Tour are found along the Stradun.
The 1667 earthquake and subsequent fire destroyed nearly the entire city – and structures along the Stradun were rebuilt uniformly. Each dwelling was constructed to have a street-level shop with a door and arched window. The living area was one level up and the top-floor was reserved for the kitchen.
Although today the upper floors have been re-purposed as apartments, the ground-level shops, with their matching arched windows and doors, remain.
#3 Big Onofrio’s Fountain
Just inside the Pile Gate is one of the interesting Dubrovnik attractions: Big Onofrio’s Fountain. Named for its designer, Onofrio della Cava, it was built in 1438 as a fresh water source.
The large fountain has 16 spouts that continuously flows from Maskerons. The water is clean, so step up to top off your water bottle!
Maskerons are found throughout Dubrovnik on the sides of buildings. The faces were the original outlets for drain pipes. A legendary one can be found low to the ground at the Franciscan Monastery. According to folklore, if you stand on it and keep your balance while taking off your shirt, you will find true love. You can find another one on the side of the Church of St. Blaise (look higher up), across from the Marin Drzic statue.
#4 Church of Saint Salvation
(MAP) The small chapel opposite the fountain was built in gratitude for sparing the town from severe damage in an earthquake in 1520.
Surprisingly, the Church of St. Salvation survived the devastating 1667 earthquake. Now the building remains as one of the few original structures of Renaissance architecture.
#5 Franciscan Monastery, Dubrovnik
(MAP) Built in the 14th century, the complex includes two cloisters, a historic pharmacy and a library. The lower cloister, designed in the Romanesque-Gothic style, has 120 columns and 12 pilasters.
Dating to 1317, the pharmacy is the 3rd-oldest, working pharmacy in the world. A collection of more than 20,000 books – including valuable manuscripts and other artifacts – is housed in the library.
Visitors enter the monastery via the narrow alleyway next to St. Savior Church. There is an entrance fee to the cloisters and library, but the pharmacy is open to the public.
Top Tip: Shop for lotions made from local herbs according to old Franciscan formulas.
#6 Franciscan Church
(MAP) The original Franciscan Church was almost completely destroyed in the 1667 earthquake. Only the decorative Pieta on the side portal remained (which was sculpted in 1498). When the church was rebuilt, they interior was adorned in the opulent Baroque style.
#7 Orlando’s Column
(MAP) The next stop on our Walking Tour of Old Town Dubrovnik is Orlando’s Column on Luza Square. The statue of the armor-clad, sword-wielding Orlando has stood in Dubrovnik since 1418, making it the oldest publicly displayed sculpture in the city.
According to legend (which has been disputed, but still makes for a nice story), Orlando was a Medieval knight who saved Dubrovnik by defeating pirates – and his statue symbolizes freedom.
Historically accurate, however, is that Orlando’s forearm measures 51.2cm. This was the official length of an ‘elbow,’ the standard measurement for fabric and other goods at the time.
The steps in front of Orlando were also used for proclamations and the punishments. The more important the news, the higher the messenger stood on the steps!
#8 St. Blaise
(MAP) The Baroque St. Blaise Church was built in 1715 on the site of a previous church that was…you guessed, destroyed in the 1667 earthquake. The building is modeled after St. Maurizio Church in Venice, Italy.
Dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint, the steps to the church lead up from Luza, the main square in the Old Town. The structure features stained glass windows and large statue of St. Blaise standing above the entrance. Every year, February 3 marks St. Blaise Day, as well as City of Dubrovnik Day.
#9 Sponza Palace
(MAP) Built in the 16th century, the Sponza Palace is a must-see on Dubrovnik Self Guided Walking Tours.
The palace was the cultural center of the city and one of the most beautiful buildings in Old Town Dubrovnik. The building was home to government affairs, including the Customs Office (which is why it is also referred to as the Divona), the mint, armory and the treasury.
It was the center of commercial trade and business in the city. An inscription in the courtyard loosely translates to: Our weights do not allow for cheating. When I measure the weight of goods, God measures me.
In the 17th century, the palace hall was used by intellectuals and poets. Sponza Palace now houses Dubrovnik’s archives, including ancient documents that date to 1022.
The palace is one of the few buildings in Dubrovnik to withstand the 1667 earthquake. It is thought that most of the Old Town was of the same design prior to the devastation.
#10 Dubrovnik Bell Tower
(MAP) The iconic City Bell Tower was built in the Dubrovnik Old Town in 1444 at the height of 100 feet. The 2-ton bell was cast in 1506 – and can be heard as far as the Port of Gruz.
Two ‘Green Men’ – bronze turned green from sea air – named Maro and Baro strike the bell every half hour with hammers (with a special sequence at noon). The clock face not only tells the time, but also displays the phase of the moon – and below it is a numerical clock.
Unfortunately, the only part of the tower that is original is the actual bell. Due to earthquakes causing it to lean, the entire clock tower had to be completely rebuilt in 1929. The Maro and Baro figures are also replicas; the originals reside in a museum.
#11 Dubrovnik Dominican Monastery
(MAP) Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, the Dominican Monastery is one of the largest Gothic buildings in the region. The impressive staircase leads into the church, where visitors can see a golden Crucifix that dates to the 14th century.
In the cloister gardens there is a stone well, which still functions today and provided clean water to the city during the Siege of Dubrovnik. Additionally, the Dominican Monastery complex has a library and museum, which houses a large collection of paintings, art and jewelry.
#12 Ploce Gate Dubrovnik
(MAP) In a design similar to the Pile Gate, the eastern Ploce Gate has two archways and a bridge (that was originally a wooden drawbridge).
At the far end of the bridge is the Revelin Fortress, which was built as a lookout point over the gate and harbor in the 16th century. Today, the Revelin Tower is used as a popular nightclub.
Top Tip: Pass through the first archway connected to the Revelin Tower and walk onto the elevated square shaded by large evergreen trees. Here, you will find beautiful views of the Old Dubrovnik Port.
Return to the Stradun and walk south, past the Clock Tower. You will pass Small Onofrio’s Fountain and the seated statue of Marin Drzic, a famous Croatian writer. People rub his nose or knees for good luck!
#13 Dubrovnik Rector’s Palace
(MAP) From the 14th century until the dissolution of the Republic of Ragusa in 1808, the Rector’s Palace served as the seat of the Rector of Ragusa. The state administration and council were also housed here, as well as the armory and prison.
Since 1872, the Museum of Dubrovnik has operated here. The Gothic palace was designed by Onofrio della Cava (who also built the city’s two fountains). However, due to earthquakes and a gunpowder explosion, the building endured several renovations. They added Renaissance and Baroque elements into the design.
#14 Old Port and Porporela Lighthouse
(MAP) Designed in the 15th century and further enhanced in the 16th century, the port provided safe harbor for ships and protection from enemies. The large building with the three arches (now a restaurant), was the Arsenal where ships were built.
Follow the walkway around Fort St. Ivana (which houses an aquarium and maritime museum) to the Porporela Lighthouse. From here, take in the sweeping vistas of the Adriatic Sea and Lokrum Island.
Continue walking along the outside of the walls. Here you can dip your toes in the clear water at one of Dubrovnik’s Best Beaches!
#15 Dubrovnik Cathedral
(MAP) Officially the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, several churches have occupied this site since the 7th century.
The cathedral prior is said to have been funded by English King Richard the Lionheart. When the king was saved from shipwreck on Lokrum Island in 1192, he promised to build a grand church to thank God and the citizens of Dubrovnik for his survival.
That cathedral, however, was demolished in the 1667 earthquake. It took 50 years – and many architects – to complete the new domed cathedral that stands today.
Although the interior is rather stark, it is worth stepping inside during your tour of Old Town Dubrovnik. There are numerous altars adorned with paintings and an unusual Stations of the Cross. The highlight, however, is the treasury which houses an abundance of ornate holy relics.
#16 Gundulic Square and Dubrovnik Green Market
(MAP) The statue that stands at the center of this square is of famous Croatia writer and Dubrovnik statesman, Ivan Gundulic.
In the mornings, the space hosts a market where visitors can purchase souvenirs, buy Croatian lavender, taste honey and pick up fresh fruit and veg. At noon, when the Bell Tower rings out scarring all the pigeons, they flock to Gundulic Square.
#17 Orthodox Church of the Holy Annunciation
(MAP) There are few religious buildings other than Catholic Churches in the Dubrovnik Old Town. In fact, in the 13th century, Muslims and people who were Orthodox were not permitted to live inside the walls.
The Orthodox Church was not built until the late 1800s and is snugly fit into a small space. Visitors are invited to step inside and view the colorful mosaics. There is also an on-sight museum that displays Orthodox icons and art pieces.
Retrace your steps back to the market and turn right (south) on Ulica uz Jezuite. Walk to the end of the street and up the grandiose staircase – known to Game of Thrones fans as the Walk of Shame Staircase.
#18 St. Ignatius
(MAP) Baroque statues and colorful frescoes decorate St. Ignatius, which is – without a doubt – the most beautiful church in Old City Dubrovnik. The structure was built in the early 1700s and completed in 1725.
Inside, there is a cave dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes and the bell dates to 1355. Standing nextdoor is the Jesuit College, subtly designed to emphasize the beauty of the façade.
Exit the church and walk to the opposite end of the square. Now look for the sign that says, “Cold Drinks with the Most Beautiful View”.
#19 Dubrovnik Buza Bar
(MAP) “Buza” means “Hole in the Wall” – and Buza Bar is literally a bar through a hole in the Dubrovnik City Walls. The small entrance (watch your head) leads to a makeshift outdoor terrace that clings to the walls like a barnacle to a boat.
Although the drinks are over-priced, the tables are crammed together and there is no running water, the views over the Adriatic Sea are absolutely amazing! Walking around Dubrovnik can be tiring, so relax and order a refreshing beverage. This is the last stop on our Free Dubrovnik Walking Tour!
Dubrovnik Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Walking Tour Dubrovnik Sightseeing Map below.
Dubrovnik City Walk: What You Will Need
In addition to a map of Old Town Dubrovnik, there are a few more items you will want to have for your tour.
Patience for Dubrovnik Summer Visits
If you are traveling to Dubrovnik in the peak summer season, it will be hot and crowded. Therefore, you will need some patience walking in Dubrovnik. Your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik will be much more enjoyable if you simply go with the flow
Of course, it always helps to have an ice cream in hand and there are plenty of shops on the Stradun!
Walking Shoes
I personally prefer flip flops, but the slick stone streets and numerous steps can make them problematic. Instead, be sure to pack a pair of comfortable travel walking shoes, like these by Columbia (for women) or these by Merrell (for men).
Travel Camera
Dubrovnik Scenic Viewpoints are amazing! Upgrade to a real travel camera for high quality photos. We use a Canon Rebel, which takes amazing pictures and comes at a reasonable price.
Water Bottle and Day Pack
Make sure to bring a refillable water bottle – remember, you can top up at the fountains. You’ll also want a great day bag to organize all of your everyday travel essentials!
Sunscreen, Hat and Umbrella
Slather on the sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat on your city walking tour of Dubrovnik. The Croatia sun is intense all year long, but especially so in the summer months. It’s a good idea to carry a travel umbrella, too – for downpours or to provide a little bit of shade!
Travel Insurance for Croatia
Need trip insurance? Check the affordable rates and robust coverage on World Nomads for your trip to Dubrovnik.
More Tours in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Our Old Town Dubrovnik Self-Guided Walking Tour is a great introduction to the city. However, there are many Dubrovnik guided tours as well. We are highlighting just a few of the most popular options that are led by a professional Dubrovnik tour guide.
Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Locations Tour
Calling all GOT fans! Many iconic scenes from the show were filmed in Croatia. In fact, Dubrovnik is King’s Landing and Fort Lovrijenac, which is just outside the Pile Gate, is the Red Keep.
Visitors can join a Game of Thrones tour that follows in the footsteps of the characters and get the inside scoop and filming stories from your guide. Read the reviews on this highly rated GOT Dubrovnik tour!
Dubrovnik Private Tours
Want a guide to lead you on a private tour of the city? On this 2-hour city tour in Dubrovnik, a guide will share local info while showing you the top sights in the city. Get the Details!
Dubrovnik City Walls Tour
The historical Walls of Dubrovnik are a highlight of any visit to Croatia. Let a guide lead the way on an elevated tour over the city. Find out more!
Super Saver Combo Tour
Visitors short on time can pack all of the top sights of Dubrovnik into one streamlined tour. This Super Saver tour includes taking the Cable Car to Mount Srd, walking the city walls and taking a guided tour of Dubrovnik. Book it!
Walking Dubrovnik Food Tour
Follow a local guide to family-run restaurants for a taste of local food and wine. Sample traditional Croatian cuisine and wines produced in the area. The price is all-inclusive – and the reviews are fabulous. Find out what’s included!
Free Tours Dubrovnik
Visitors looking for free tours in Dubrovnik can join the Old City and Game of Thrones Free Tour. Booking in advance is still recommended. Also keep in mind that the guide will expect to be tipped. If you want an absolutely free tour in Dubrovnik, use our outlined walking route!
Dubrovnik Kayak Tour
Set off on the Adriatic Sea in a kayak and get a superb vantage point, then paddle to a secluded beach. This affordable tour gets rave reviews. Check the price!
Dubrovnik Bike Tour and Kayaking
Enjoy an active day trip from Dubrovnik that includes kayaking, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking in the Elaphite Islands. Get the specifics!
Wine Tour from Dubrovnik
Visit the fishing village of Ston, where they once produced salt, then ride along the vine-covered coastline on the Peljesac Peninsula, stopping for tastings at Croatian wineries. Reserve You Spot!
Travel Tips for Dubrovnik, Croatia
With our travel advice for Croatia, you can plan your absolute best vacation to Dubrovnik!
Planning a Trip to Dubrovnik
Planning a Dubrovnik trip is a big task – as there are so many Things To Do! Get started with our Guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation. You can also read our Croatia Itineraries for 1 Week or 2 Weeks for ideas on how to plan an extended trip in the country. Also check out our tips for Dubrovnik on a Budget and a rundown of the Top Day Trips!
Staying organized during your preparation is key. Don’t miss a single detail with our Printable Travel Planner. It’s ready to be downloaded, so you can get started right away!
More Tips for Traveling to Croatia
We have shared our best tips for Dubrovnik, but have loads more for visiting Croatia!
Walking Tours in other Top Croatia Destinations
We love discovering locations on foot – especially Best Cities in Croatia!
Croatia Travel Guides
Find all of our articles on the dedicated Croatia Travel Page, but here’s a few to get you started!
- Things To Do in Hvar
- What To See in Korcula
- Visiting Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls
- Top Attractions in Rovinj
- Go on a Croatia Island Hopping Cruise
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