Dubrovnik Clock Tower - a tall clock tower towering over a city
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Dubrovnik Clock Tower

4.8
·288 reviews·Dubrovnik, Croatia

An elegant 15th-century timepiece marking the end of Stradun, this historic tower is a charming landmark of Dubrovnik's Old Town.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Dubrovnik Clock Tower - a tall clock tower towering over a city

Dubrovnik Clock Tower

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An elegant 15th-century timepiece marking the end of Stradun, this historic tower is a charming landmark of Dubrovnik's Old Town.

4.8
(288 reviews)

"A beautiful clock tower, quite different than other buildings around the inner city walls."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the tower at the end of Stradun for that iconic Dubrovnik shot. Early morning is best!

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The Old Town has cobblestones. Wear comfy shoes for exploring around the tower and beyond.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Bronze Bell

The Grand Bronze Bell

Top of the tower

Marvel at the impressive 15th-century bronze bell that has chimed through centuries of Dubrovnik's history.

Stradun's Eastern End

Stradun's Eastern End

Luža Square

This elegant timepiece marks the eastern end of the iconic Stradun, a perfect photo opportunity.

Architectural Elegance

Architectural Elegance

Luža Square

Admire the tower's unique design, a blend of historical styles that stands out from surrounding buildings.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Clock Tower is a central landmark in Dubrovnik's Old Town. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds that descend during midday, especially during the summer months. Consider the heat and sun exposure when planning your walk through the Old Town.

Navigating the Old Town

The Clock Tower is situated at the end of Stradun, the main street. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. Dubrovnik's Old Town is best explored on foot, and the tower is a great orientation point.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

First time in Croatia!

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the tower at the end of Stradun for that iconic Dubrovnik shot. Early morning is best! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The Old Town has cobblestones. Wear comfy shoes for exploring around the tower and beyond. Reddit

reddit.com

Dubrovnik: things to do and things to avoid

reddit.com

Any travel tips for Dubrovnik

📍 Central Landmark

Use the Clock Tower as a meeting point or orientation in the bustling Old Town. Reddit

reddit.com

Tips for Croatia

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Capture the tower at the end of Stradun for that iconic Dubrovnik shot. Early morning is best! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The Old Town has cobblestones. Wear comfy shoes for exploring around the tower and beyond. Reddit

📍 Central Landmark

Use the Clock Tower as a meeting point or orientation in the bustling Old Town. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(288 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Dubrovnik Clock Tower to be a beautiful and elegant historic landmark, perfectly situated at the end of the iconic Stradun. Its architectural charm and historical significance are frequently praised, making it a key visual element of the Old Town's skyline. While it's an external monument, its presence is considered essential to the Dubrovnik experience.

"Dubrovnik’s Clock Tower, an elegant 31m high timepiece, dating from the 15th century is a magnificent landmark of the Old Town.
It is located at the very end of Stradun, next to Sponza Palace in Luža Square."

Mat Bienczyk

"The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is a beautiful historic landmark at the end of Stradun, adding charm to the Old Town’s skyline."

Toni Krasnic

"A striking structure often found in churches or monasteries, the Bell Tower is an architectural focal point.
It houses large bells used to mark time or call to prayer and often offers panoramic views from its top."

lee on miin

What People Like

Beautiful historic landmark
Elegant architecture
Prime location on Stradun

What People Dislike

Cannot enter the tower

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is located in the heart of the Old Town, at the eastern end of Stradun (Placa). If you're arriving from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), the most recommended way to reach the Old Town is by airport shuttle bus, which drops you off near the Pile Gate. From there, it's a short walk along Stradun to the Clock Tower. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Reddit

Yes, the Clock Tower is very easy to find. It's a prominent landmark situated at the end of Stradun, the main pedestrian street in Dubrovnik's Old Town. You'll likely pass it multiple times as you explore the historic center. Reddit

No, private vehicles are not allowed inside Dubrovnik's Old Town, where the Clock Tower is located. You'll need to park outside the city walls and walk in. The nearest parking garages are a short walk away. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Dubrovnik Clock Tower is an external landmark and is freely visible from Luža Square and Stradun. There is no admission fee to view it from the outside. Reddit

As an outdoor monument, the Clock Tower is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding area and shops will have typical daytime operating hours. Reddit

The Clock Tower is primarily an architectural feature and a landmark. Visitors cannot typically go inside the tower itself, but its exterior is a significant part of the Old Town's charm. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Clock Tower is located in Luža Square, adjacent to the Sponza Palace and the Church of St. Blaise. You can explore these historic sites, enjoy street performers, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the Old Town. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a beautiful historic landmark that adds to the charm of Dubrovnik's Old Town. It's a key part of the iconic views and a testament to the city's rich history. Reddit

The tower dates back to the 15th century and has been damaged and rebuilt over time. It features a large bronze bell and an elegant dome, serving as a significant timepiece for the city. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light can make the tower and surrounding architecture look stunning. Reddit

Try capturing it from the end of Stradun for a classic perspective. You can also get interesting shots from different points in Luža Square, incorporating the adjacent buildings. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is a great visual landmark for families exploring the Old Town. Its prominent position at the end of Stradun makes it an easy point of reference for kids. While you can't go inside, pointing out the large bell and discussing its historical role can be an engaging way to introduce children to Dubrovnik's past. The surrounding Luža Square often has street performers, which can add to the fun for younger visitors. Remember to keep an eye on little ones, as the area can get crowded. Reddit

Tip: Combine a visit to the Clock Tower with exploring the nearby Sponza Palace and the Church of St. Blaise, which offer more interactive historical elements. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be challenging for small feet. The open space of the square allows for some freedom to move around, but always supervise children closely. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Dubrovnik Clock Tower offers classic postcard views. The most iconic shot is capturing the tower at the end of Stradun, especially during the 'golden hour' of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. Experiment with different focal lengths to include the surrounding architecture or focus solely on the tower's details. The contrast between the tower's elegant design and the bustling activity in Luža Square can create dynamic compositions. Reddit

Consider: Shooting from slightly elevated positions within the Old Town walls can offer unique perspectives. Be mindful of the crowds, particularly during peak season, and try to find moments of relative quiet for clearer shots. The tower's distinct silhouette against a blue sky or a sunset is a highly sought-after image. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower, standing at an elegant 31 meters, is a testament to the city's enduring spirit. Originally constructed in the 15th century, it has witnessed centuries of Dubrovnik's vibrant history, including periods of damage and subsequent reconstruction. Its presence at the end of Stradun, the city's main thoroughfare, makes it an unmissable landmark. The tower's design, with its distinctive dome and the prominent bronze bell, reflects the architectural styles prevalent during its construction and later renovations. It served not only as a timepiece but also as a symbol of the Republic of Ragusa's prosperity and resilience. Reddit

While the tower itself is an architectural marvel, its historical significance is amplified by its location. Situated in Luža Square, it stands beside other crucial historical buildings like the Sponza Palace and the Church of St. Blaise. This central position meant the tower was a focal point for civic life and public gatherings. The large bronze bell housed within was crucial for marking time and signaling important events, deeply embedding the tower into the daily rhythm of Dubrovnik's past. Its survival through various historical events underscores its importance to the city's identity. Reddit

Architectural Features and Significance

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is characterized by its slender, elegant form and a striking dome that crowns its structure. Unlike many bell towers that are part of a larger church complex, this tower stands as a distinct, secular monument. Its construction and subsequent modifications showcase a blend of historical architectural influences, making it a unique sight within the Old Town. The prominent bronze bell, a key feature, was not just for announcing the hours but also played a role in the city's public life, a common practice in medieval and Renaissance urban centers. Reddit

The tower's aesthetic appeal is undeniable, offering a visual counterpoint to the surrounding Renaissance and Baroque architecture. It's often described as being quite different from other buildings in the inner city walls, highlighting its distinct architectural character. This uniqueness makes it a popular subject for photographers and a point of interest for visitors keen on appreciating the diverse architectural tapestry of Dubrovnik. Its enduring presence is a reminder of the craftsmanship and artistic vision of its builders. Reddit

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