Dubrovnik City Walls: Visitor Guide

Dubrovnik’s city walls are the city’s #1 attraction and one of the best-preserved medieval fortification systems in the world. The circuit runs 1,940 metres around the entire old town, with towers, fortresses, and views that justify every cent of the €35 ticket.

What to expect

The walk is a one-way loop — you go counterclockwise and can’t turn back. The full circuit takes 60–90 minutes depending on how often you stop for photos (a lot). The walls vary from 4 to 6 metres wide, with the seaward side being the most dramatic section. There are some steep staircases, especially near Minčeta Tower at the highest point.

When to go

8am sharp. Gates open at 8am in summer and the first 30 minutes are blissfully quiet. By 9:30–10am, cruise ship passengers flood in and it becomes a slow shuffle. If you can’t do morning, try after 5pm when the light is beautiful and crowds thin out. Avoid midday entirely — there’s zero shade on the walls and temperatures can exceed 35°C in July-August.

Entrance and tickets

The main entrance is at Pile Gate (west side), with a second entrance near the Maritime Museum (east side). Tickets are €35 for adults, free for children under 7. You can buy online to skip the queue, but the queue usually moves quickly. The ticket also includes entry to Fort Lovrijenac.

Best photo spots

The stretch above the old harbour gives you the classic rooftop shot. Minčeta Tower (the large round tower at the highest point) has 360° views. The seaward section between Bokar and St. John’s fortress frames Lokrum island perfectly.

Tips

Bring at least 500ml of water per person — there are no water fountains on the walls. Wear decent shoes — the stone is uneven. There’s one café/bar partway around (Buža-style, on the rocks) where you can stop for a cold drink at inflated prices. The walk is not wheelchair accessible.

Nearby

Fort Lovrijenac — the “Dubrovnik Gibraltar” just outside Pile Gate. Included in your walls ticket. Small but the views back towards the walls are excellent.

Stradun — Dubrovnik’s main street runs directly below the walls. Stop for ice cream after your walk.

Lokrum Island — visible from the walls, a 15-minute ferry from the old port.

Getting there

Dubrovnik is 3.5 hours from Split and 2 hours from Kotor by private transfer. The walls are in the centre of the old town, accessible through Pile Gate.