Dubrovnik is simply magical with its medieval city walls and turquoise blue waters, but also incredibly busy.

In this guide, I will tell you about the best areas to stay in, whether you are looking for historical experiences within the city walls, luxurious beach hotels or an authentic Croatian atmosphere.

Let’s get started: where to stay in Dubrovnik?

Best Areas in Dubrovnik

Here’s a quick overview of the top areas to stay:

• Old Town – Best Area for First-Time Visitors
• Ploče – A luxurious beachside area with stunning views
• Pile – A perfect mix of history and peace and quiet

Click the neighbourhood name to see the best hotels in each area.

1. Old Town – Best Area for First-Time Visitors

Old Town is the very heart of Dubrovnik – a living medieval city surrounded by UNESCO-protected walls, where Game of Thrones meets authentic Croatian history.

Picture yourself staying inside a perfectly preserved medieval town, where every cobbled lane tells stories going back centuries. That’s exactly what you get in Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

When you wake up here, you’re literally surrounded by 15th-century architecture – but with modern comforts like WiFi and air con, naturally.

See the top hotels in the Old Town here.

Stradun, the main street, is like a living postcard. You’ll find everything from charming cafés tucked into historic buildings to fine dining restaurants with Michelin recognition.

Restaurant 360 is a must for foodies, while Buzz Bar is perfect for post-sightseeing drinks.

And of course, there are all the Game of Thrones locations – it’s pretty surreal walking the same steps as Cersei Lannister.

Check out these Game of Thrones tours and attractions in Dubrovnik.

Getting around is a breeze – you can walk to all the top sights.

The city walls are right outside, the harbour’s a five-minute stroll away, and buses to other parts of town stop just by Pile Gate. Banje Beach is only a 10-minute walk.

It really is the best place to stay if you want to be close to it all.

The one big drawback? The crowds. Especially when cruise ships dock, it can feel a bit much.

And yes, prices are higher than elsewhere in the city. But believe me – the evening atmosphere, once the day-trippers have left, is nothing short of magical.

Hotels in the Old Town

Let’s take a look at three brilliant places to stay inside Dubrovnik’s Old Town:

Boutique Hotel Stari Grad

A lovingly restored 16th-century aristocratic residence with just nine unique rooms in the heart of Old Town. The hotel’s Above 5 rooftop restaurant – the only one in the Old Town – offers jaw-dropping views over the Adriatic and those iconic red rooftops.

Past guests rave: “Modern design blended perfectly with the building’s age, breakfast on the roof was exceptional!”

See more photos and book here.

Scalini Palace Heritage Hotel

An exclusive boutique hotel in a fully renovated 16th-century palace that once belonged to famed Croatian scientist and diplomat Ruđer Bošković.

The hotel blends authentic baroque architecture with modern luxury. The eight elegant suites feature exposed stone walls, wooden floors and lofty ceilings that whisper of centuries past.

Each suite has a well-equipped kitchenette with hob, microwave and dining area. Some also boast a furnished balcony overlooking the Stradun promenade.

Highlights from guests: “Brilliant location right in the Old Town, room was clean and comfy with a stunning original stone wall” and “Super central, spacious room cleaned daily!”

This is Dubrovnik’s most authentic boutique hotel – ideal if you want to treat yourself to a mix of history, luxury and unforgettable charm.

See more photos and book here.

City Walls Hostel

A clean and modern hostel in the heart of the Old Town, perfect for younger travellers looking to enjoy the nightlife.

Close to all the bars and restaurants, and the staff are happy to help organise tours and excursions.

Guests love: “Fantastic location for exploring the Old Town and great for meeting other travellers!”

See more photos and book here.

Are you planning to travel around Croatia? Also, read my big guide to where to stay in Split.

2. Ploče – Perfect for Luxury Travellers and Beach Lovers

Ploče is Dubrovnik’s most exclusive neighbourhood. Situated just east of the Old Town, it has luxury hotels, direct access to Banje Beach and spectacular views over Lokrum Island.

If you’re dreaming of waking up to panoramic views of the turquoise Adriatic with Lokrum in the background, Ploče is the place to stay.

It’s Dubrovnik’s answer to the French Riviera – posh, picturesque and home to the best hotels in the city.

See the top hotels in Ploče here.

Ploče is just east of Ploče Gate, a mere five-minute walk from the Old Town, yet blissfully removed from the crowds and noise.

• It reminds me a bit of Nice, but with unmistakable Croatian charm.

Prices are the steepest in Dubrovnik, but you absolutely get what you pay for.

If you’re looking to splash out and have the budget for it, Ploče is spot on.

You get the best of both worlds – five-star comfort and easy access to the city’s historic sights.

Hotels in Ploče

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

An iconic luxury hotel dating back to 1913, housed in a former royal villa with a modern wing. Right on the waterfront, with views across to the Old Town and Lokrum Island.

Features include a spa, indoor pool, private beaches and three restaurants, including the renowned Prora.

Guests love: “Brilliant location by the sea and city walls, close to town but far from the noise!”

See more photos and book here.

Villa Dubrovnik

A sleek modern luxury hotel built into the cliffside with tiered terraces, infinity pool and a top-class spa. Rooms are styled in soft whites and creams with floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces.

The hotel restaurant has a Michelin recommendation.

A recent guest said: “Zen-like atmosphere with beautifully styled rooms and the most incredible view!”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel More

A charming boutique hotel with sea views and modern facilities. Perched above Banje Beach, offering easy access to both the beach and Old Town. Rooms come with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea or city.

Guest favourites include: “Perfect location, amazing breakfast and super helpful staff!”

See more photos and book here.

3. Pile – Best Place to Stay for Families

Pile is the ideal middle ground – just to the left of Pile Gate when looking at a map, with easy access to the Old Town, but much quieter, with parking and family-friendly options.

It’s my top pick for families or those wanting the best of both worlds. You’re only two minutes from the Old Town, but without the endless stream of tourists and the noise.

One big perk: many hotels in Pile have parking – something nearly impossible inside the city walls.

See the top hotels in Pile here.

The area sits just outside the western entrance to the city and overlooks majestic Fort Lovrijenac – one of my absolute favourite Game of Thrones spots.

There are a few small beaches dotted along the coast, and the seaside promenade is ideal for evening strolls. Prices are lower than in the Old Town or Ploče, but you still get an authentic Dubrovnik experience.

For families, it’s spot on – the terrain is flatter than other areas, and there are bus links to the rest of the city if your legs need a break.

The locals actually live here too, so you get a more genuine feel of everyday Dubrovnik.

The only downside? Upper Pile can be quite steep. So if you’ve got mobility issues or you’re travelling with a pram, book a hotel closer to the main road.

Otherwise, it’s honestly just a brilliant place to stay in Dubrovnik.

Hotels in Pile

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

A large resort-style hotel with pools, spa and direct beach access. Great for families with kids – it has a kids’ club, family rooms and lots of activities. The location gives easy access to both the beach and Old Town.

Guests say: “Fantastic for families, big pool and beach bar, easy access to Old Town!”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Bellevue

A stylish cliffside hotel with jaw-dropping sea views and its own private beach. Modern design with Croatian touches, spa facilities and a gourmet restaurant. Built dramatically into the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic.

One guest noted: “Gorgeous design hotel with stunning views and an amazing restaurant!”

See more photos and book here.

Villa Klaic

A family-run guest house with personal service and homemade breakfast. Simple but spotless rooms with air con and WiFi. In a quiet part of town with easy access to Old Town and a local vibe.

Guests love: “Wonderfully friendly hosts who treat you like family, lovely breakfast!”

See more photos and book here.

Where Not to Stay in Dubrovnik

While Dubrovnik is generally safe and lovely, there are a few areas I’d steer clear of if you want the full experience.

Gruž, near the harbour, may seem appealing thanks to the lower prices and local feel, but you’ll spend a lot of time on transport – it’s a 30-minute walk or a bus ride to the Old Town.

Unless you’re keen to stay far from the action and dodge Old Town prices, you’re better off staying closer in.

Babin Kuk, out on the Lapad peninsula, has some nice resort hotels, but it feels more like a purpose-built tourist zone than the real Dubrovnik.

A bit like staying on a cruise ship – pleasant enough, but you miss the connection to the city.

Kupari might tempt you with its abandoned hotels and haunting ruins, but there are no tourist facilities and the vibe can be a bit grim.

If you’re after a peaceful alternative, consider Cavtat instead – it has beaches and tranquillity without the eerie atmosphere.

In general: if a hotel price seems too good to be true compared to the Old Town, there’s probably a reason. It’s usually either distance or a lack of atmosphere.

Still Not Sure Where to Stay in Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik is one of those cities where your choice of area can really make or break your experience, so choose wisely.

Go for:

Old Town if it’s your first visit and you value history and atmosphere over peace and quiet.

Ploče if you want luxury and beach life without sacrificing access to the city’s sights.

Pile for a well-balanced option that suits families and practical travellers.

Keep in mind that June to August is peak season – expect huge crowds and sky-high prices. Book at least six months in advance.

April to May and September to October offer lovely weather, fewer crowds and much better prices.

Getting between areas is easy with buses (just a few quid per ride), taxis or water taxis. Dubrovnik is compact enough that you can easily explore different neighbourhoods during your stay.

One last practical tip: Dubrovnik is steep, with loads of stairs. Pack light and consider your physical fitness when picking a location. The Old Town is particularly stair-heavy.

Whatever you choose, be ready to be completely blown away by this incredible city.

Dubrovnik has that rare mix of authentic history and jaw-dropping beauty – it’s a place you’ll never forget.

The post Where to stay in Dubrovnik? 3 Best Areas & Places to Stay (+ Where to Avoid!) appeared first on Destination Well Known.

In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the best areas to stay in, whether you’re interested in historical experiences, beach life, or authentic Croatian culture.

Let’s get started with the guide: where to stay in Split?

Best areas in Split

Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Split:

• Old Town – Historic heart with UNESCO charm
• Bačvice – Popular beach area with nightlife
• Meje/Marjan Hill – Quiet and exclusive with sea views

Click on the area’s name to see the best hotels in the area.

1. Old Town – best area for first-time visitors

The Old Town is the perfect base for your first Split experience, where 1,700-year-old Roman architecture meets modern Croatian life in a unique blend.

Imagine waking up inside living ruins from the Roman Empire! Split’s Old Town isn’t just a museum – it’s a buzzing quarter where people live, work and go about their daily lives between walls that have stood since 305 AD.

Diocletian’s Palace, which forms the heart of the area, is simply magical. You can walk from your hotel lobby straight onto Peristyle Square, where Emperor Diocletian once held court.

See the best hotels in the Old Town here.

The area is completely car-free, so you can wander about the narrow cobbled streets without worrying about traffic. Here you’ll find everything from trendy wine bars tucked away in vaulted cellars to exclusive shops in ancient Roman buildings.

The restaurant scene is phenomenal – I’m particularly fond of the small family restaurants hidden away within the palace complex, where you can get authentic Dalmatian food.

Transport-wise, it couldn’t be better. You’re only a 5-minute walk from the main railway station and bus station, and the ferry terminal to the islands is right next door.

Bačvice beach is a 10-minute walk away, and Marjan Hill is just outside the northern gate. The area reminds me a bit of Gamla Stan in Stockholm, the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona or Edinburgh’s Old Town – just with much better weather and Roman history!

• The only downside? It can get rather busy in high season, especially when cruise ships are in port. But there are so many hidden corners and smaller streets that you can always find a quiet spot.

Places to stay in the Old Town

Judita Palace Heritage Hotel

This is Split at its absolute finest – a renovated Renaissance palace from the 1500s with only 8 unique rooms on the main square. You’re literally staying inside history with original stone walls and views of the lively square. Breakfast is served in the charming courtyard or on the terrace.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “The staff are wonderfully friendly and helpful, the location is perfect and breakfast is excellent!”

See more photos and book here.

Cornaro Hotel

A modern boutique hotel just outside the palace walls with a roof terrace and rooftop pool. The rooms are spacious and elegant with flat-screen TVs and minibars. The hotel’s restaurant and rooftop bar are popular with both guests and locals.

If you’re looking for a hotel in central Split with a rooftop pool, this is the place to stay.

One guest recently wrote: “Fantastic service, clean and peaceful atmosphere, and the rooms are comfortable and spacious.”

See more photos and book here.

Heritage Hotel Fermai

A charming smaller property in the heart of the Old Town with personal service and authentic atmosphere. The rooms have retained their historic charm whilst offering modern facilities.

Perfect place to stay if you want to experience Split like the locals do.

Guests particularly love: “The personal service and the feeling of staying in a genuine Croatian home right in the midst of history.”

See more photos and book here.

2. Bačvice – best place to stay for beach lovers and party-goers

Bačvice is Split at its most lively – here the city’s beautiful sandy beach meets some of Croatia‘s best beach bars and nightlife.

Bačvice is simply the place to stay in Split if you want to combine city experiences with proper beach life.

The beach here is Croatia’s most famous – a gorgeous, golden-sandy beach where both locals and tourists gather to play the traditional game of Picigin in the shallow waters.

But the brilliant thing about staying in Bačvice is that it’s not just a beach – it’s an entire quarter dedicated to having a good time.

See the best hotels in Bačvice here.

During the day you’re lounging on the beach with views of Split’s old town on one side and open sea on the other.

The beach bars serve cold beer and fresh cocktails right down to the water’s edge. In the evening the area transforms into Split’s absolute party headquarters with everything from chilled beach bars to pulsing nightclubs.

You’re only a 15-minute walk from the Old Town, so you can easily hop between historic sightseeing and beach life.

The area also has good bus connections to the rest of the city. Price-wise it’s a bit higher than other parts of Split, but you’re paying for that unique combination of beach and city life.

If you love being where the action is, and aren’t afraid of a bit of noise and music until late in the evening, then Bačvice is perfect.

It reminds me a bit of South Beach in Miami – just with Croatian charm and better food!

Places to stay in Bačvice

Hotel Park Split

Split’s most prestigious beach hotel since 1921.

This traditional luxury hotel sits right by Bačvice beach with an outdoor pool, elegant restaurant and spa facilities. The rooms are classically furnished with modern amenities and some with sea views.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “Fantastic location by the beach, exceptional service and the most beautiful pool in Split!”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Villa Harmony

An intimate boutique beach hotel just steps from Bačvice beach. Modern rooms with elegant details, some with balconies and outdoor jacuzzis. The hotel’s spa and wellness area is perfect after a day on the beach.

One guest recently wrote: “Luxurious beachfront hotel with beautiful rooms and fantastic breakfast.”

See more photos and book here.

3. Meje – perfect for luxury travellers, families and nature lovers

Meje is Split at its most sophisticated – a quiet quarter between Marjan Hill and the sea with spectacular views and some of the city’s best beaches.

If you dream of waking up to panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea whilst being close to Split’s best cultural experiences, then Meje is your place to stay.

This quarter sits like a pearl between the green Marjan Hill and the blue sea, and here you get the feeling of being on holiday at an exclusive resort – even though you’re only a 20-minute walk from Split’s centre.

See the best hotels in Meje here.

Meje is home to the Meštrović Gallery, where you can see masterpieces by Croatia’s most famous sculptor.

The area also has some of Split’s best beaches – Jezinac and Kasjuni – which are less crowded than Bačvice but equally beautiful.

• Kasjuni beach is particularly popular amongst young Croatians, and the atmosphere is relaxed and authentic.

For families, the area is also a good place to book a hotel – quiet, safe and with plenty of green spaces on Marjan Hill for picnics and walks.

Places to stay in Meje/Marjan Hill

Hotel Ambasador

A stylish boutique hotel on Split’s western promenade with fantastic sea views and chic atmosphere. The hotel’s restaurant serves Dalmatian food with international touches, and the wellness area has dry floatation beds for total relaxation.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “Spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea, modern design and incredibly peaceful location!”

See more photos and book here.

Marjan apartment & rooms

A family-run accommodation with personal service and authentic atmosphere. Simple but clean rooms with air conditioning and WiFi. The location at the foot of Marjan Hill makes it perfect for nature lovers on a budget.

See more photos and book here.

Where not to stay in Split?

Although Split is generally a safe city, there are some areas where I’d recommend you choose somewhere else to stay to get the best experience.

The Poljud area north of the centre might seem attractive because of lower prices, but you’ll end up spending loads of time and money on transport into the centre and beaches.

Unless you’re specifically coming to see a Hajduk Split football match at Poljud Stadium, you’d be better off booking somewhere closer to the centre.

The area around Split airport might tempt you with quick transit, but there are virtually no tourist facilities, restaurants or attractions.

You’ll get a better experience staying in the centre and taking a taxi or bus to the airport.

The Kaštela area between Split and Trogir has some decent hotels, but you end up in no-man’s land between two destinations without getting the best from either of them.

If you’re considering this area, you’d be better off booking in either Split centre or Trogir town.

Generally speaking, if the price seems too good to be true compared to centre hotels, ask yourself why. It’s almost always transport distance or lack of facilities that’s the reason.

Still unsure where to stay in Split?

Split is one of the few cities where you really can’t go wrong, whatever area you choose from my recommendations!

The Old Town is the perfect area to stay if it’s your first time in Split and you want everything right on your doorstep – history, restaurants, nightlife and easy transport.

Bačvice is the place to stay if the beach and lively nightlife are just as important as sightseeing.

Meje/Marjan Hill is what you choose if you want luxury, peace and beautiful natural surroundings without sacrificing the connection to the city.

Remember that June to September is high season, so book your hotel well in advance and expect higher prices. April and May, as well as September and October, offer the best weather without the crowds, and much better hotel prices.

Split is compact, so you can easily explore several areas during your trip to this Croatian holiday city.

Whatever you choose, look forward to a fantastic experience in Split. The city has that rare ability to feel both cosmopolitan and authentic at the same time.

Enjoy the planning – and especially the trip to Split itself.

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