Old Town Stari Grad
Step back in time in Old Town Stari Grad, a beautifully preserved medieval city with ancient walls and charming alleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Old Town Stari Grad
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Old Town Stari Grad, a beautifully preserved medieval city with ancient walls and charming alleys.
"The old town of Dubrovnik is really special. It is very big and beautiful, it has access to the sea."
🎯 Arrive early or late
Beat the cruise ship crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful exploration.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Old Town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient City Walls
Circumference of the Old Town
Walk atop these historic fortifications for breathtaking views of the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea.

St. Stephen's Cathedral
Main Square
Admire the stunning architecture and climb the bell tower for panoramic vistas of the old town.

Winding Medieval Streets
Throughout the Old Town
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and charming cafes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
A back alley somewhere in Stari Grad, Croatia
🎯 Arrive early or late
Beat the cruise ship crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful exploration.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Old Town.
Hvar and where to stay
Itinerary Recommendations - Hvar Croatia
🚗 Parking challenges
Parking is scarce. Research options in advance or consider arriving by boat for a unique entrance.
💰 Beware of tourist traps
Some restaurants and shops can be overpriced. Look for local recommendations or venture slightly off the main paths.
Getting from Hvar town to Stari Grad or vice versa, also few guides for first time visitors
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early or late
Beat the cruise ship crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful exploration.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Old Town.
🚗 Parking challenges
Parking is scarce. Research options in advance or consider arriving by boat for a unique entrance.
💰 Beware of tourist traps
Some restaurants and shops can be overpriced. Look for local recommendations or venture slightly off the main paths.
📸 Capture the magic
The Old Town is incredibly photogenic. Explore at different times of day for varied lighting and fewer people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Old Town Stari Grad is lauded for its beautiful, ancient architecture and charming atmosphere, offering a unique experience, especially when arriving by boat. However, many visitors find the experience marred by overwhelming crowds, particularly from cruise ships, and some note high prices in restaurants and shops.
"Beautiful walled old city with nice shops and cafes.
It rained when we went so we only saw some of it before leaving.
We arrived by boat so that was unique."
Roy Cleeves
"The problem is too many tourists, poor transport infrastructure, lack of parking space and greedy restaurant and shop owners."
Marko Ćaleta
"The old town of Dubrovnik is really special. It is very big and beautiful, it has access to the sea. You should come here during the day and at night and experience it in several ways!"
Katarina Nakit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Town Stari Grad is accessible by ferry or catamaran from mainland Croatia (like Split) or other islands. If arriving by car, be aware that parking within the Old Town is extremely limited. Many visitors find arriving by boat offers a unique and convenient experience.
Parking is a significant challenge within the Old Town itself. It's best to research designated parking areas outside the walls or consider using public transport or taxis if you're driving.
If you are staying nearby, walking is a pleasant way to reach the Old Town. However, if you are coming from further afield on the island, you will likely need to use a car, bus, or taxi.
For day-trippers, arriving by ferry or catamaran is highly recommended. This allows you to disembark close to the Old Town and avoid parking hassles.
Yes, there are bus services that connect various parts of the island to Stari Grad. Check local bus schedules for routes and timings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required to walk around the Old Town of Stari Grad. You can freely explore its streets and public spaces.
While the Old Town itself is free to enter, individual attractions like museums or specific historical sites may have their own admission fees.
The Old Town is always accessible, as it's a living city. However, individual shops, cafes, and restaurants will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.
Yes, you can book guided tours of Old Town Stari Grad in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and a knowledgeable guide.
Currently, there are no comprehensive passes for all attractions within Old Town Stari Grad. It's best to check individual sites for their ticketing options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss walking along the ancient city walls for stunning views, visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral, and simply getting lost in the charming, narrow medieval streets.
Absolutely! Walking is the best way to experience the Old Town. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
For a good overview, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore museums and enjoy the atmosphere, a full day or even an overnight stay is recommended.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the rich history and hidden gems of the Old Town.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The golden hour light during these times also makes for beautiful photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find traditional Dalmatian cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, local olive oil, and regional wines. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating in picturesque squares.
While many restaurants cater to tourists, venturing slightly off the main squares can lead to more authentic and reasonably priced options. Look for places with local patrons.
Prices can vary, with restaurants in prime locations being more expensive. Expect to pay more for seafood and multi-course meals.
Yes, numerous charming cafes are scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break and people-watching.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables and pasta. Vegan options might require specific requests, but are increasingly available.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient city walls, the bell tower of St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the narrow, winding alleys with their stone buildings offer endless photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic city centers to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the narrow streets.
Be respectful when photographing people. It's always best to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Crowds: Insider Tips
If you do find yourself amidst the crowds, try to venture down the smaller, less-traveled side streets. These often lead to quiet courtyards and offer a more authentic glimpse into the town's charm. Remember that the Old Town is a living, breathing entity, so even during busy times, you can find moments of tranquility if you look for them.
The Charm of Arrival: Experiencing Stari Grad by Sea
For those planning their journey, arriving by sea often means disembarking directly near the heart of the Old Town, bypassing some of the parking and traffic challenges faced by those arriving by land. It's an excellent option for day-trippers and those staying on the island who want to avoid the hassle of finding parking within or near the historic center. The sight of the ancient stone buildings rising from the water's edge is a classic postcard view that truly captures the essence of this historic Dalmatian town.
Navigating Dining and Shopping: Tips from Travelers
When exploring the shops, you'll find a variety of souvenirs, local crafts, and boutiques. It's worth browsing to find unique items, but be mindful of pricing. For a more relaxed dining experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or exploring the smaller side streets where you might discover hidden culinary gems. Enjoying a coffee or a meal at an outdoor cafe in one of the charming squares is a quintessential part of the Old Town experience, so be sure to factor in time for that.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit