What to See in Dubrovnik: A Guide to the Walled Old Town
Updated: Aug 23
If you're wondering what to see in Dubrovnik, the city's historic Old Town is the perfect place to start. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik combines impressive medieval fortifications, elegant churches, historic squares and narrow limestone streets within a compact area beside the sea.
The city was once the centre of the independent Republic of Ragusa, a maritime republic that became wealthy through trade and diplomacy. Its history can still be felt throughout the Old Town, from the massive city walls to the fountains, palaces and religious buildings that line its streets.
Pile Gate and the City Walls
Pile Gate is one of the main entrances to Dubrovnik Old Town and a natural starting point for exploring the historic centre.
The entrance leads through several defensive gates before reaching Stradun, the main street of the Old Town. From here, the city's impressive fortifications stretch around the historic centre and along the coast.
The walls were essential to Dubrovnik's defence and reflect the importance of the city as a maritime power. Towers and fortresses were positioned strategically to protect the town from attacks approaching from both land and sea.
Bokar Tower and Lovrijenac Fortress
Just outside the western side of the Old Town stands Bokar Tower, an important part of Dubrovnik's defensive system.
Across the sea, on a rocky promontory, is Lovrijenac Fortress. Its position was carefully chosen to protect the western entrance to the city and control access from the sea.
Together, the two fortifications demonstrate how Dubrovnik used the natural landscape around the city as part of its defence.
The Big Onofrio's Fountain
After entering the Old Town, one of the first major landmarks is the Big Onofrio's Fountain.
Today, it is one of Dubrovnik's best-known monuments, but its original purpose was much more practical. Built in the 15th century, it formed part of a sophisticated water system that brought fresh water into the city from a spring several kilometres away.
For a medieval city, a reliable water supply was essential. The fountain therefore tells an important story about the engineering and organisation that allowed Dubrovnik to prosper.
Stradun: The Heart of Dubrovnik
Stradun is the main street running through the heart of Dubrovnik's Old Town.
Its polished limestone surface, historic buildings and elegant proportions make it one of the city's most recognisable sights. Yet the street also reflects Dubrovnik's turbulent history.
The great earthquake of 1667 destroyed or severely damaged many buildings throughout the city. Much of Dubrovnik was subsequently rebuilt, which explains the mixture of medieval remains and later Baroque architecture visible today.
Walking along Stradun is therefore not just a stroll through the centre of town; it is a journey through the city's reconstruction and renewal.
Gundulić Square
South of Stradun lies Gundulić Square, named after the Dubrovnik poet Ivan Gundulić.
The square has traditionally been associated with the local market and offers a quieter atmosphere than the main street. Its steps and surrounding buildings create one of the most picturesque corners of the Old Town.
Gundulić was an important literary figure during the time of the Republic of Ragusa, and his statue stands at the centre of the square.
The Jesuit Stairs and Saint Ignatius Church
From Gundulić Square, the impressive Jesuit Stairs lead uphill towards the Church of Saint Ignatius.
The Baroque staircase is one of Dubrovnik's most distinctive architectural features. At the top, the church stands on a small square with views towards Mount Srđ.
The church itself adds another layer to Dubrovnik's religious heritage and demonstrates the influence of Baroque architecture on the city after the great earthquake.
Religious Diversity in Dubrovnik
Although Dubrovnik is strongly associated with its Catholic heritage, the Old Town also preserves evidence of other religious communities.
The Orthodox church, historic mosque and former Jewish quarter are reminders of the international character of the Republic of Ragusa and the diverse communities that once lived and traded within Dubrovnik. As a trading centre, Dubrovnik maintained connections with different cultures and communities across the Mediterranean.
These buildings provide an interesting perspective on the city's past and its role as a meeting point between different worlds.
Dubrovnik's Medieval Streets
Some of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Dubrovnik Old Town are found away from the major landmarks.
Narrow streets climb away from Stradun, leading through historic neighbourhoods filled with stone houses, small squares and stairways.
The layout of the Old Town reflects its medieval origins, while the buildings reveal centuries of adaptation and rebuilding. Taking time to explore these smaller streets gives you a different perspective on Dubrovnik beyond its most photographed sights.
The Republic of Ragusa
To understand Dubrovnik, it helps to know something about the Republic of Ragusa.
For centuries, Dubrovnik operated as an independent maritime republic. Its prosperity depended on trade, shipping and diplomacy, and the city became remarkably skilled at maintaining its independence despite being surrounded by more powerful states.
The republic's political tradition is closely associated with the idea of Libertas, or freedom. The word remains an important symbol of Dubrovnik and reflects the pride the city has in its independent past.
The Great Earthquake of 1667
One of the defining moments in Dubrovnik's history came on 6 April 1667, when a devastating earthquake struck the city.
Large parts of Dubrovnik were destroyed or badly damaged, and many residents lost their lives. The disaster changed the appearance of the Old Town and led to extensive rebuilding.
As you walk through Dubrovnik today, this history is visible in the architecture. Medieval structures stand alongside Baroque buildings created during the city's recovery.
Dubrovnik as a Maritime City
The sea has always been at the centre of Dubrovnik's identity.
The city's location on the Adriatic made it an important trading port, while its ships connected the Republic of Ragusa with destinations throughout the Mediterranean.
The impressive fortifications, harbour and historic buildings all reflect this maritime history. Even today, the relationship between the Old Town and the sea remains one of the defining features of Dubrovnik.
Discover Dubrovnik with my Audio Tour in English
If you want to explore Dubrovnik Old Town independently while learning the stories behind the places you visit, my audio tour in English, “Dubrovnik's Old Town: A Walking Tour of the Walled City,” can accompany you along the way.
The tour works through the VoiceMap app, using your phone's GPS to play each story automatically when you reach the relevant location. You can walk at your own pace, stop for photos, coffee or sightseeing, and continue whenever you're ready. There's no group to follow and no fixed schedule.
Enjoy discovering Dubrovnik and the fascinating stories behind its walled city!
Sanja - Tour Guide in Split
