Solo City Breaks - Dubrovnik

Nestled along the stunning Dalmatian Coast of Southern Croatia, Dubrovnik is often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic."

The city's allure lies in its incredibly preserved Old Town and stunning turquoise beaches, offering a myriad of experiences for every solo woman traveller. So, whether you're drawn to sun-soaked shores or historical wonders, Dubrovnik promises an unforgettable journey.

When planning your visit to Dubrovnik, it's essential to consider the time of year. For those seeking seaside bliss, the months between May and September offer prime beach weather. However, be prepared for bustling crowds, particularly during peak tourist season in July. Alternatively, consider exploring Dubrovnik during the low season if your focus lies beyond the beach. Winter presents a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, with the added bonus of reduced prices and fewer visitors. While some eateries may close their doors outside of the summer months, the city's charm never changes.

A valuable tip for savvy travellers looking to avoid the crowds of visitors is to consult Dubrovnik's cruise ship schedule online. By planning day trips outside Dubrovnik on days with more cruise ship arrivals, you can maximise your enjoyment of the city's sights and attractions. I'll be visiting on a cruise ship in July, so I know it will be busy, but thankfully, the ship will be docked until very late at night, which means I get to enjoy the city during the evening when most of the other cruisers will be long gone.

Popular things to do:

Walk the ancient city walls: Dubrovnik's crown jewel is its impressive city walls, offering stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. The 1.9-KM (1.2-mile) walk takes about two hours, but you can easily spend longer soaking up the scenery and snapping photos.
Discover the Rector's Palace: This impressive Gothic-Renaissance palace was once the seat of the Republic of Ragusa. Today, it houses a museum with exhibits on the city's history and art. Don't miss the Onofrio Fountain in the courtyard.

Ride the cable car to Mount Srd: For breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area, take a ride on the cable car to the top of Mount Srd. There's a restaurant and a small museum at the top, as well as hiking trails if you're feeling adventurous.

Explore the Franciscan Monastery: This beautiful 14th-century monastery houses a pharmacy museum, a library with ancient manuscripts, and a peaceful cloister garden. Be sure to check out the stunning Baroque altarpiece in the church

Wander through the Dominican Monastery: This 14th-century monastery is home to a beautiful Romanesque cloister and a museum with art and artefacts from the monastery's collection. The views from the monastery's bell tower are also worth the climb.

Solo city break in the streets of Dubrovnik

Some Hidden (and not so hidden) gems:

Get lost in the narrow streets: The best way to discover Dubrovnik's hidden gems is to wander aimlessly through the narrow streets of the Old Town. You'll find cute cafes, charming shops, and hidden squares along the way.

Stroll through the Pile Gate: This 15th-century gate is the main entrance to the Old Town and is worth checking out for its impressive architecture. There's a small bridge over the moat that leads to the gate, and the views from the top are great.

Amazing views on a solo city break in Dubrovnik

Take a walk along the Lapad Peninsula: This peninsula is home to several beaches, parks, and gardens, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There's also a Franciscan monastery on the peninsula that is worth visiting.
Visit the Maritime Museum: This small museum is located in a restored fort and houses exhibits on Dubrovnik's maritime history. It's a great place to learn about the city's seafaring past and the role it played in the Mediterranean trade.
Relax at Buža Beach: This small beach is located just outside the city walls and is a great place to escape the crowds. There are no changing facilities or showers, so come prepared.

Tiny islands of Dubrovnik with Going Solo

Day trips:

Lokrum Island: This island is located just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik and is a great place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. There's a Benedictine monastery on the island, as well as botanical gardens and walking trails.
Mljet National Park: This national park is located on the island of Mljet and is home to two large saltwater lakes, forests, and hiking trails. You can rent a bike or kayak to explore the park, or take a boat tour to see the caves and cliffs.
Korčula: This island is known as the "birthplace of Marco Polo" and is a charming town with a beautiful historic centre. There are beaches, vineyards, and olive groves to explore on the island, as well as a number of historical sites.
Montenegro: The neighbouring country of Montenegro is just a short drive from Dubrovnik and is a great place to experience a different culture. The town of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is worth visiting for its medieval old town and stunning views of the Bay of Kotor.

Transportation:

Public transportation: Dubrovnik has a reliable bus system with routes covering the city and nearby areas. Purchase tickets before boarding and validate them upon entering. Trams connect the Old Town with Lapad Peninsula.
Walking: Most attractions within the Old Town are easily walkable. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some steep climbs.
Taxis: Negotiate fares beforehand and ensure they use the meter. Download reputable ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt for convenience.
Ferry: Explore nearby islands like Lokrum or Mljet by taking a ferry from the Old Town harbor. Purchase tickets in advance during peak season.

Eating out on a solo city break in Dubrovnik

Nightlife:

Lively bars and restaurants: The Old Town offers vibrant options like Dvino Wine Bar, Buža Bar, or The Globe for drinks and socializing. Lapad Peninsula has trendy spots like Troubadour Jazz Cafe or Kavkaz for a relaxed atmosphere.
Solo-friendly dining: Restaurants like Konoba Jezuite, Taj Mahal, or Pizzeria Amfora offer comfortable seating and friendly service, perfect for enjoying a solo meal.
Live music and performances: Check local event listings for concerts, open mic nights, or theatrical performances happening during your visit.
Safe return: Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less frequented areas. Opt for taxis or pre-arrange transportation back to your accommodation.