Are you planning a trip to Dubrovnik and are unsure where to stay? You’ve come to the right travel guide.
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.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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