Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls

The ancient walls surrounding Dubrovnik are the city’s claim to fame, and a walk around the walls of Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the best place to get incredible views from up high. As one of the city's main attractions they can get busy, so we suggest getting up early for a peaceful stroll.

The Dubrovnik walls have surrounded the city since the 9th century, but were reconstructed between the 14th and 17th centuries. You can begin your tour at one of the three entrances. Pile Gate is the busiest and most popular but, to avoid the crowds, Ploce Gate is a great place to start, or you can enter near the Maritime Museum.

The city walls of Dubrovnik stretch for 1,940 metres and they’re pretty high, reaching up to 25 metres in some places. If you’re afraid of heights, this isn’t the place to put your fear to the test. Some parts can get quite narrow too, with walls on the sea-facing side only 1.5 to 3 metres thick in places. If you’re walking around this stretch, it’s single file only. 

The best thing about the city walls is the view, but you’ll also take in some incredible ancient monuments on your tour. Book a private, or group guided, tour or explore alone to pass ancient towers such as Upper Tower and Minceta Fortress, the highest point. From here, the view over the red roofs of Dubrovnik’s Old Town is simply breathtaking. On your walk, you’ll pass through St Ivan Fort, built in the 14th century and now home to a museum, and the historic Fort Bokar, which once served as an Austrian prison.

On the eastern side of the walls, look out for the imposing Fort Revelin. As you continue your exploration, keep your eyes peeled for Fort Lovrijenac, perched above the city on a 37-metre high cliff. From your vantage point on top of the Dubrovnik walls, you’ll be able to see the city’s bustling markets, tree-lined courtyards, and local people going about their day. Stroll along its southern stretch and look out for Buza Beach, a hidden cove where you’ll spot locals sunbathing and swimming. 

A  lap of the walls of Dubrovnik takes around two hours, so make sure you take plenty of water, a hat some and sun cream. There are vendors selling water along the walls, but they’re few and far between and you’ll find their prices expensive, so bringing your own is the best bet.

Pack your camera too, as there are fantastic photo opportunities everywhere you turn. When your walk is finished, it’s a great time to head for the Old Town. On sunny afternoons, you can wander through the narrow streets, shop at one of the markets or find a café with alfresco seating to enjoy refreshments.

Things To Do ideas

Find more Things To Do in Dubrovnik: Bars Buža | Copacabana Dubrovnik | Dalmatian Wine | Dubrovnik Cable Car | Dubrovnik Old Town | Game of Thrones Tour | Lokrum Island | Medieval Pharmacy | Relax On Banje Beach | Stroll Along Stradun