Old Town Stari Grad - people walking on street during daytime
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Old Town Stari Grad

4.8
·405 reviews·Dubrovnik, Croatia

Step back in time in Old Town Stari Grad, a beautifully preserved medieval city with ancient walls and charming alleys.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
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Old Town Stari Grad - people walking on street during daytime

Old Town Stari Grad

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Old Town Stari Grad, a beautifully preserved medieval city with ancient walls and charming alleys.

4.8
(405 reviews)

"The old town of Dubrovnik is really special. It is very big and beautiful, it has access to the sea."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient City Walls

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

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

Winding Medieval Streets

Throughout the Old Town

Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and charming cafes.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Old Town Stari Grad can get packed, especially when cruise ships dock. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to explore its charming streets with fewer people. Consider visiting off-season for a more relaxed experience.

Getting Around

Parking is extremely limited within the Old Town. If arriving by car, research parking options beforehand. Many visitors arrive by boat, which offers a unique perspective. Walking is the best way to explore the narrow, winding alleys.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-season (Spring/Fall)
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Old Town. Reddit

reddit.com

Hvar and where to stay

reddit.com

Itinerary Recommendations - Hvar Croatia

🚗 Parking challenges

Parking is scarce. Research options in advance or consider arriving by boat for a unique entrance. Reddit

💰 Beware of tourist traps

Some restaurants and shops can be overpriced. Look for local recommendations or venture slightly off the main paths. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are common. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Old Town. Reddit

🚗 Parking challenges

Parking is scarce. Research options in advance or consider arriving by boat for a unique entrance. Reddit

💰 Beware of tourist traps

Some restaurants and shops can be overpriced. Look for local recommendations or venture slightly off the main paths. Reddit

📸 Capture the magic

The Old Town is incredibly photogenic. Explore at different times of day for varied lighting and fewer people. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(405 reviews)

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

Beautiful ancient architecture
Unique arrival by boat
Charming atmosphere

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
High prices
Limited parking

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, there are bus services that connect various parts of the island to Stari Grad. Check local bus schedules for routes and timings. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

While the Old Town itself is free to enter, individual attractions like museums or specific historical sites may have their own admission fees. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, you can book guided tours of Old Town Stari Grad in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and a knowledgeable guide. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

Absolutely! Walking is the best way to experience the Old Town. Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the rich history and hidden gems of the Old Town. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The golden hour light during these times also makes for beautiful photography. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Prices can vary, with restaurants in prime locations being more expensive. Expect to pay more for seafood and multi-course meals. Reddit

Yes, numerous charming cafes are scattered throughout the Old Town, perfect for a coffee break and people-watching. Reddit

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables and pasta. Vegan options might require specific requests, but are increasingly available. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in historic city centers to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Check local regulations before flying. Reddit

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. Reddit

Be respectful when photographing people. It's always best to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Town Stari Grad offers a fascinating historical playground for families. The ancient city walls provide an exciting area to explore, sparking imagination about knights and castles. Reddit Wandering through the narrow, winding streets feels like an adventure, with plenty of nooks and crannies to discover. Reddit While the cobblestone paths require comfortable shoes for everyone, the compact nature of the Old Town makes it manageable for little legs. Reddit Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as some cafes can be pricey, and plan for breaks in the shaded squares. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Exploring Old Town Stari Grad can be done on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. The entire Old Town is free to wander, offering incredible historical ambiance without an entrance fee. Reddit Pack your own picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy by the waterfront, saving on restaurant costs. Reddit Look for local bakeries for affordable pastries and coffee. Reddit While some shops and restaurants are expensive, you can still find charming cafes for a reasonably priced drink. Reddit Visiting during the off-season can also lead to lower accommodation prices if you plan to stay overnight. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Old Town Stari Grad is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots. The ancient city walls provide panoramic views, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. Reddit Capture the intricate details of the medieval architecture in the narrow, winding alleys, where light and shadow play beautifully. Reddit Don't forget to photograph the harbor views and the boats docked along the waterfront. Reddit Be mindful of the crowds; visiting during off-peak hours will give you more freedom to compose your shots without obstructions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Crowds: Insider Tips

Old Town Stari Grad is a gem, but its popularity means it can get incredibly crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. Visitors often mention the overwhelming number of tourists, describing them as 'toddlers, dazed and confused and slow as hell.' Reddit To truly enjoy the ancient city, timing is everything. Aim to visit early in the morning (before 9 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 4 PM) when the day-trippers have departed. This allows for a more peaceful exploration of the narrow streets and a better chance to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Reddit Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for a significantly less crowded experience and more pleasant weather. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

The Charm of Arrival: Experiencing Stari Grad by Sea

Arriving in Old Town Stari Grad by boat is frequently highlighted as a unique and memorable experience. One reviewer specifically mentioned, 'We arrived by boat so that was unique.' Reddit This perspective offers a different vantage point of the ancient walls and the picturesque harbor, setting a magical tone for your visit. Whether you arrive on a large ferry, a smaller catamaran, or even a private vessel, the approach to the Old Town from the water is undeniably special. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Navigating Dining and Shopping: Tips from Travelers

When it comes to dining and shopping in Old Town Stari Grad, traveler experiences are mixed. While the town boasts 'nice shops and cafes,' some visitors warn of 'greedy restaurant and shop owners' and suggest that prices can be high, especially in prime locations. Reddit To find more authentic and potentially better-value experiences, it's often recommended to venture a little off the main tourist paths. Reddit Look for restaurants that seem popular with locals, as this is usually a good indicator of quality and fair pricing. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Reddit