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Over 1.9 million tourists visited Dubrovnik in 2019 alone, making it one of the common locations within the Mediterranean.

And but as somebody who has lived right here for over 4 years, and initially got here right here seven years in the past to check overseas, I nonetheless see a number of vacationers making widespread errors. Some neglect to learn up on entry restrictions, keep out within the solar too lengthy, and neglect important gadgets when packing. 

That is why as a Croatia travel advisor based mostly in Dubrovnik, I assist vacationers navigate these logistics to make sure a clean trip. To keep away from any complications upon arrival, observe my listing of issues it’s good to know earlier than coming to Dubrovnik.

COVID-19 restrictions in Dubrovnik 

Dubrovnik follows all of the required COVID-19 regulations set by Croatia. To enter, you will want one of many following: 

  • A destructive PCR take a look at (taken 72 hours earlier than arrival on the border) or an Antigen take a look at (taken 24 hours earlier than arrival on the border). 
  • A vaccination certificates or booster dose certificates 
  • Proof of restoration 
  • Proof of restoration and the primary dose of vaccine 

Alternatively, you possibly can pay for a take a look at upon arrival and stay in self-isolation till you obtain a destructive end result. 

You must also fill out this Enter Croatia form here.

Presently, as of publishing, Croatia eliminated masks mandates. Nevertheless, you do need to put on masks in medical establishments. 

A view of Dubrovnik after sunset.

Dubrovnik has skilled overtourism.

Dario Garofalo for Insider


Overtourism in Dubrovnik

Overtourism in Dubrovnik has been on the rise over the previous decade. Whereas Dubrovnik’s native authorities is attempting to fight this downside by proscribing the variety of cruise ships per day, vacationer crowds in peak summer time season are nonetheless an issue. 

I usually keep away from the Outdated City in July and August throughout the day because of this. I additionally strive to not drive into city throughout the summer time, as there’s often a scarcity of parking and frequent visitors jams. 

One of the simplest ways to fight overtourism is to contemplate visiting outdoors of the height season. Could, June, September, or October are all nice various months when the climate continues to be sunny and heat and the crowds are far fewer.  

When you’re set on a first-rate July or August go to, I like to recommend staying outdoors of town heart in areas like Župa or Cavtat, the place you will not solely lower your expenses on lodging, however you will additionally be capable of escape the crowds for a extra relaxed keep. 

Money in Dubrovnik 

I at all times make sure that to hold money in Dubrovnik. Whereas playing cards are extensively accepted, some bars or outlets are sometimes money solely. Plus, in case you are searching for souvenirs, some locations will supply a money low cost. For instance, I purchased good jewellery in Dubrovnik and acquired a 15% low cost for paying in money. 

Though Croatia is a part of the European Union, they’re nonetheless utilizing Croatian Kuna till the top of 2022. To get one of the best alternate price, alternate Euros or US {dollars} inside any financial institution, or take out money from a financial institution ATM. 

A view of tightly packed buildings in Croata

Dubrovnik has a heat, sunny local weather for a lot of the yr.

Dario Garofalo for Insider


Climate in Dubrovnik 

Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean local weather with gentle winters and scorching summers. The temperature can rise up to 40 Celsius in the summertime and the solar itself is extraordinarily sturdy. I’ve seen vacationers get sunstroke by spending an excessive amount of time within the solar and never ingesting sufficient water or sporting enough sunscreen. 

Apply warning when outdoors in the summertime, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the solar is the strongest. Put on sunscreen and a hat, drink a number of water, and attempt to discover shade when you possibly can. 

When you plan on visiting Dubrovnik within the spring, fall, or winter, be ready for rain. The climate can change from clear skies to downpours in a matter of hours. If I am going out throughout this time, I at all times make sure that to throw a rain jacket or umbrella in my automotive. In lots of circumstances, I’ve wanted it.

Packing ideas for Dubrovnik

Not solely is Dubrovnik full of cobble-stoned streets, however there are additionally a number of stairs, so packing comfy footwear is crucial. Sneakers or sandals which might be sturdy are ideally suited, however in case you do need to pack heels for an evening out, I might go for a block-heel or wedge over skinny stilettos. 

Most seashores in Dubrovnik are rocky, which may make it tough to get out and in of the water. That is why I at all times pack water footwear in my seaside bag. You will additionally keep away from stepping on any sea urchins that you just see alongside the rocks. 

I additionally at all times make sure that to put on a correct shirt and shorts or costume over my swimsuit. It isn’t socially acceptable to stroll round city in your swimwear, particularly within the Outdated City. It is also legally required that you just put on footwear. 

A view of rocky cliffs and the sea in Dubrovnik

Be careful for sea urchins whereas swimming.

Dario Garofalo for Insider


Security within the sea in Dubrovnik

I’ve traveled everywhere in the world and Dubrovnik continues to be by far the place the place I’ve felt the most secure. In my expertise, in contrast to different locations in Europe, petty theft and crime are very uncommon. Nevertheless, there are precautions to take as a traveler.

To begin, Dubrovnik’s rocky terrain makes it ideally suited for cliff leaping. Nevertheless, we locals know which you could’t simply do that wherever. Some rocks are unstable, and generally you possibly can’t see rocks below the floor of the ocean. Ask locals for secure locations to leap.

Relating to swimming, I am by no means anxious about harmful fish, and there aren’t sharks close to the coast. The ocean can be extraordinarily clear, so I by no means fear concerning the high quality of the water both. Nevertheless, you must be careful for sea urchins on the rocks whereas getting out and in of the water. These “sea porcupines,” as they’re referred to as in Croatian, can get caught in your foot and are a literal ache to take away. 

Driving in Dubrovnik 

Having a automotive whereas in Dubrovnik is a superb choice in case you plan to take day journeys all through Southern Dalmatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nevertheless, it is taken me years to get used to driving in Dubrovnik. Site visitors indicators might be complicated, the roads are slender, and parking is commonly restricted, inflicting visitors. 

When you do lease a automotive, ensure you are okay with all of the above. Additionally ensure you are comfy with heights, as the principle highway connecting Dubrovnik to the airport goes alongside a steep cliff.

In any other case, concentrate, go sluggish, and you will probably discover that driving in Dubrovnik is doable and provides you with the liberty to discover your entire area.

View Insider’s comprehensive guide to visiting Dubrovnik.

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