Dubrovnik & Islands holidays

The beaches in the Dubrovnik region come with some serious scenery. You’ve got coastal vistas featuring wind-whipped cliffs and striking rock formations, plus forest-trimmed beaches on offshore islets that feel like they belong in a glossy travel mag. Closer to town, you can dip into lively bays near the Old Town – or head out by kayaking to secluded Betina Cove if you’re after a quieter, tucked‑away spot.

Banje Beach runs parallel to Dubrovnik’s old town walls, and its central spot means it’s usually on the busy side. With swish beach clubs and a cluster of luxury hotels at its perimeter, a bit of celebrity spotting is very much on the cards. You can splash out on daybeds, or just throw down a towel and settle in for some top-tier people watching.

This small, sand-and-shingle cove – reached via steep stone steps – sits between rugged cliffs with only the pretty Saint Jacob church for company. You’ll find it about a mile from Ploce Gate, and while it takes a bit of prep to reach, it pays off the second you see the views. You’ll be able to snap up panoramic views of Dubrovnik, Lokrum – the nature reserve – and even a glimpse of Lopud island on a clear day.

Swing by Dubrovnik’s old harbour for stalls selling art – you’ll often see local artists trying to flaunt their sketches of the day – exquisite lacework, lavender-scented bags, and carnival masks. On weekday mornings, head to Gundulićeva Poljana’s open‑air market for local cheese and smoked ham. And for more fresh picks, Cavtat Market is another good bet for local produce – it’s right next to the station, and is on every day.

Od Puca street is Dubrovnik’s go‑to shopping stretch, packed with antique dens and quirky jewellery – including the local silver filigree jewellery the city’s known for. And if you fancy a traditional Croatian silk cravat to take home, just pop over to Dubrovnik’s famous main street, the Stradun, where every colour, pattern and style is lined up ready to tempt you.

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, make a beeline for the high‑end boutiques near the Ploce Gate in Dubrovnik’s old town. Over at Maria Store, you’ll spot luxury international labels like Yves Saint Laurent and Givenchy, alongside bespoke Adriatic coral designs that add a proper local touch to your haul.

If you’re chasing seafront evenings, the harbour-front bars in Cavtat for wine and jazz are a guaranteed win. For something a bit more dramatic, head to the cliff-side bars like Buža built into the rock face, where you’ll climb a few steps for a sundowner but get knockout views as your reward. And if you’re splashing out, book a table at upscale dining at Nautika outside Ploce Gate – a celebrity favourite spot where the setting is just as stellar as the menu.

Dubrovnik’s Buniceva Square turns into a buzzing evening hotspot where tables and chairs spill out from the open‑air cocktail lounges, and there’s always a chance to catch tunes from live music sets on the old town cobbles. Once you’ve warmed up, wander over to Bourbon Street, where chic bars sit alongside sophisticated late-night clubs like Culture Club Revelin – the perfect place to keep the night going.

This hearty Dalmatian bean and maize soup is the Dubrovnik region’s answer to Italian minestrone. It’s loaded with fresh Mediterranean veg, and locals usually enjoy it as a starter, using ‘strukle’ – cottage cheese rolls – to scoop up every last bit.

Sporki makaruli is a proper winter warmer in the Dubrovnik region – a traditional beef and tomato pasta dish that’s slow‑cooked until it’s rich, hearty and full of depth. You’ll get those aromatic hints of cinnamon and nutmeg in every bite, and it’s always topped with local dry sheep’s cheese for that final, salty hit.

If you’re craving something quick and seriously satisfying, these grilled minced meat rolls are the local fave. A blend of lamb, beef, garlic and herbs is rolled into bite‑sized sausages and grilled until they’re smoky. They’re then stuffed into a warm pita bread with ajvar – a chilli and aubergine relish – topped with peppers and tomatoes for crunch, then smothered in sour cream.

If you’re a fan of crème brulee, you’ll want to give this local version of caramel custard a try. Made with eggs, milk, cream and sugar, it’s silky, sweet and served with fresh fruit on the side – and it’s even better with a traditional rose liqueur drizzle for that proper Dubrovnik twist.

Looking for something with a proper local punch? This strong local fruit brandy made from plums or grapes is the go‑to choice. The fruit gets infused with aromatic herbs, giving it that warm, fragrant character everyone here loves. And, just like the locals do, it’s best enjoyed as an after-dinner tipple, the perfect way to round off the night.