Old Town: Tours and Guided Visits

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is famed for a multitude of reasons, from its picturesque setting along the Dalmatian Coast to its association with the HBO award-winning series “Game of Thrones.”

Dotted with medieval buildings along limestone streets and surrounded by a fortress, this corner of the city is captivating to explore. Old Town tours in Dubrovnik are a must for anyone in the Croatian capital, whether you’re a history buff, culture lover or television enthusiast.

Here's all you need to know about Old Town, one of the most exhilarating opportunities for sightseeing in Dubrovnik.

Where is Old Town located?

Old Town is located inside Dubrovnik’s ancient City Walls, along the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It is the main hub of Dubrovnik and is easily accessible from other parts of the city. Most accommodation options are located outside the Old Town, however, you can make use of a wide range of transportation to reach the area.

Those who are staying in Gruž, as well as cruise passengers, can take bus Lines 1A, 1B or 3, to Pile, just a stone’s throw from the Old Town.

Alternatively, if you’re heading to the Old Town directly from the airport, you can board an airport shuttle bus, which travels directly to this corner of the city.

What are the best things to do in Old Town?

Rector’s Palace

Rector’s Palace was built using a medley of architectural styles in the 14th century. It features design elements from the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods, and was originally created by the Italian sculptor, Onofrio di Giordano della Cava, who also constructed a pair of fountains in the city. Around 100 years after its erection, Rector’s Palace was badly damaged by an explosion and rebuilt in its current style.

The building has had many uses over the centuries, however, its main purpose was as the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa between the 14th and 19th centuries. It also served as an armory, as well as a prison, and is now home to a museum.

Sponza Palace

Sponza Palace — also known as Divona — is best known for its spectacular Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including its intricately carved windows. It was constructed in the 16th century and was used for a plethora of purposes, including a bank, and a school. However, today it is used to house the Dubrovnik State Archives, which amass to over 100,000 manuscripts, some of which date back to the 11th century.

What are the best tours to visit Old Town?

Old Town walking tour in Dubrovnik

Explore the traditions and culture of the Dalmatian Coast on a walking tour in Dubrovnik's Old Town. After meeting your guide, you’ll head into the Old Town to explore its historic streets. You’ll see the Franciscan church and monastery, which were originally built in the 13th century.

Moving on, you’ll make your way to Orlando’s Column, which legend tells was built in honor of a hero who saved the city from being sieged in the Middle Ages. You'll also see Rector's Palace, which was the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa for five centuries.

Wander the Gothic and Renaissance arches of Sponza Palace, learn about the earthquake that floored the city’s original cathedral, and admire the mass of architectural delights that surround you with a lively local.

Old Town food tour in Dubrovnik

Skip the tourist hangouts and instead, discover a myriad of local gastronomic outlets on a mouthwatering food tour in Old Town. On this food tour, you’ll hop between restaurants, bars and cafés to sample a variety of treats that have helped to shape the culinary scene in the country over the centuries.

As well as authentic Croatian dishes, you’ll also try foods that are local to the Dubrovnik area, such as crni rižot, which is a black risotto, flavored with fresh seafood. Feast on salty cured meats paired with buttery local cheeses, as well as wines bottled straight from the Dalmatian Coast.

No food tour in Dubrovnik is complete without slurping on a scoop of gelato in the sun or sinking your teeth into a sugary cake from a local bakery as you stroll through the city.

Cable car ride and Old Town tour in Dubrovnik

Save yourself money and time by opting for a combination Old Town tour in Dubrovnik. You’ll begin your day trip in the city by ascending to heights of more than 770 meters above sea level on Dubrovnik’s cable car. From the top, you’ll be blessed with panoramic views that stretch across the endless indigo waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Alongside the mesmerizing ocean, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the white walls and medieval buildings that form the Old Town from above. Once you make your way back to the ground, you’ll explore the Gothic architecture of the most historic corner of Dubrovnik, including its Dominican monastery, as well as its picturesque squares and boutique-lined streets.

As you listen to your guide’s fascinating commentary, you’ll pass by many points of interest, including the Revelin Fortress, which once protected the city’s inhabitants from attack by the Venetians.

Dark tales of the Old Town tour in Dubrovnik

Discover a creepier side to the “Pearl of the Adriatic” on this tour, which features tragedy, ghosts, ghouls and everything in between. Unlike many other tours in Old Town, this excursion heads to the backstreets and alleyways of the district to explore the city’s dark past.

Instead of admiring the Franciscan monastery, you’ll discover the nearby site that once served as a former convent and was known to be a spot of paranormal activity. You’ll wander into the Pustijerna District, where you’ll hear how thieves were punished in medieval times and learn about the old occupants of Rector's Palace from the past 700 years.

Game of Thrones and Old Town tour in Dubrovnik

Dive into the fictional land of Westeros as you explore the backdrop of the most notorious scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Starting early in the day, you’ll experience an air of tranquility rarely seen by other tourists as you amble through the Old Town.

You’ll discover the most iconic sites, including Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace, as well as the Baroque 18th-century St. Blaise’s Church, built by the Venetians, and dedicated to the Christian martyr, Blaise of Sebaste.

Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik will take you to historical sites, where many important scenes of the epic series were shot. Among others, you will wander Littlefinger's Brothel and the Walk of Shame Stairs, where Cersei was punished for her incestuous relationship with her cousin.

What are the prices of Old Town tours?

Basic walking tours in Old Town cost approximately €20 per adult, while children under the age of 12 can participate for free. This includes the rental of an audio headset, as well as the services of an enthusiastic guide. You’ll be part of a large group that is capped at 99 guests.

Excursions that explore the dark history of the city cost between €20 and €30 per adult, and between €10 and €20 per child aged 5 to 15.

You’ll pay between €50 and €60 per adult for a combination tour that includes a cable car ride. Children between the ages of 4 and 11 pay half the adult rate while those aged 3, and under travel free.

Old Town food tours in Dubrovnik cost between €120 and €130 per adult while children between the ages of 12, and 17 cost between €80 and €90 each. Those under 12 can join in for free and there is a minimum party booking of two people. You’ll be part of a small group limited to eight participants, which creates a personal experience, and the price includes all food, and drink tastings.

Where do Old Town tours start?

The majority of tours in Old Town begin around Pile Square, usually in front of a renowned landmark, such as the Pile Gate or Amerling Fountain. You’ll always be able to see the starting location of each excursion before booking so that you can plan your route accordingly and arrange any necessary transportation.

Are Old Town tours in Dubrovnik wheelchair friendly?

Because this corner of the city is littered with ancient steps, tours in Dubrovnik's Old Town are generally not accessible for wheelchair users. However, there are exceptions, so be sure to check the booking page of your desired excursion to see if it’s suitable for your party.

When is the best time to visit Old Town?

The best time to visit Dubrovnik's Old Town is during the shoulder seasons - spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the town less crowded, compared to the peak summer season.

These months also offer a balance between good weather and manageable tourist volumes, providing a more relaxed atmosphere to explore the ancient city walls, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.

Travel tips

• The Old Town in Dubrovnik has many cobblestone streets and steps, so wearing comfortable and sturdy shoes is a must.
• Bring a reusable water bottle, especially during summer months, when temperatures can be quite high. Don't forget to use sunscreen and wear a hat during the sunny hours.
• Keep in mind that people still live in the Old Town, so be respectful of noise levels, especially at night.
• While most places accept credit cards, having some local currency (Croatian kuna) can be helpful for small shops or stalls.