Dubrovnik is a beautiful city by the sea, known for its old buildings, lovely views, and rich history. Many people think it is an expensive place, but there are lots of free things to do in Dubrovnik. You can walk through the Old Town and see its historic streets, visit churches, or enjoy the fresh sea air at the harbour. There are also peaceful beaches where you can relax and watch the waves. Nature lovers can hike up Mount Srđ for a great view of the city. Dubrovnik has many free places to explore, making it a great place for everyone.
Top 10 Free Things To Do In Dubrovnik
Here are the top 10 best free things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia, all without spending a dime.
1. Walk The Dubrovnik City Walls

Photo: Miroslav.vajdic / Wikimedia Commons
Dubrovnik’s old city walls are very famous and offer beautiful views of the sea and the town. You need a ticket to walk on them, but you can still enjoy them from outside. Walk around the streets near the walls and see the old buildings. There are many small alleys and great places to take photos. It is a nice way to explore the city without spending money. If you like quiet places, this is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, as you can see the history and beauty without big crowds.
Must-Have Experience: Watching the sunset behind the city walls
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
2. Explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town

Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a special place with old streets, small alleys, and beautiful old buildings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is very important. You can walk along the main street, Stradun, and see lively squares with many people. There are also famous places like Onofrio’s Fountain and the Rector’s Palace, which you can admire from the outside. Walking around is a great way to enjoy the city without spending money.
Must-Have Experience: Strolling along Stradun and spotting historic buildings
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
3. Visit Fort Lovrijenac

Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Lovrijenac is a large, old fortress on a high cliff in Dubrovnik. People call it Dubrovnik’s “Gibraltar” because it stands strong by the sea. It is a great place to take photos and enjoy the beautiful view of the water. If you like history and nature, this is a perfect place to visit. Watching the sunset from here is also a wonderful experience. The best part is that you do not have to pay to visit.
Must-Have Experience: Watching the waves crash against the fortress walls
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 60 minutes
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
4. Relax At Banje Beach

Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Banje Beach is a beautiful beach in Dubrovnik with clear water and a great view of the Old Town. You can swim, sunbathe, or just sit and enjoy the peaceful scenery without spending money. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The beach is easy to reach and perfect for a quiet day by the sea. Many people visit because it is one of the most famous beaches in the city.
Must-Have Experience: Watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
5. Stroll Along The Jesuits Staircase

Photo: Reis Quarteu / Wikimedia Commons
The Jesuits Staircase, also called the “Game of Thrones Steps,” is a famous place in Dubrovnik. It is near Gundulić Square and leads to St. Ignatius Church. These grand steps have a beautiful Baroque design and are great for taking photos. Many people visit because the steps were used in a famous TV show. They are also an important part of the city’s history. If you want to explore the city in a different way, this is a great place to visit.
Must-Have Experience: Recreating the famous “Shame” scene from Game of Thrones
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
6. Visit Dubrovnik’s Open-Air Markets

Photo: Ardfern / Wikimedia Commons
One of the free things to do in Dubrovnik is to visit the open-air markets. The Gundulić Square Market is a great place to see local life. It is full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts. Even if you do not buy anything, walking around and looking at the colourful stalls is fun. You can also talk to the friendly sellers and learn more about the local food and culture. The market is lively in the morning, so it is a good time to visit. It is a simple way to enjoy the city without spending any money.
Must-Have Experience: Sampling free tasters of local produce
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
7. Enjoy Free Live Music At Luža Square

Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
Luža Square is a busy and fun place in Dubrovnik where people often gather to enjoy live music. You can listen to local bands street musicians, or watch cultural events for free. It is a great place to relax, enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere, and experience the local culture. The square is in the old town, making it easy to visit while exploring nearby sights. Whether you stop for a short time or stay longer, it is a simple way to enjoy the city without spending money.
Must-Have Experience: Watching traditional Dalmatian performances
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
8. Walk Around Gradac Park

Photo: Kigsz / Wikimedia Commons
Gradac Park is a quiet and beautiful place just outside the Old Town. It is a great spot to relax away from the busy streets. The park has lovely views of the Adriatic Sea and Fort Lovrijenac. You can take a peaceful walk, sit under the trees, or have a small picnic. The fresh air and green space make it a perfect place to rest. It is also a good spot to watch the sunset.
Must-Have Experience: Watching the sunset over the sea
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
9. Discover Hidden Alleyways In Old Town

Photo: Vito Giaccari / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dubrovnik’s Old Town has many small streets and quiet paths that most tourists do not visit. Walking through these hidden alleys is a great way to see the local life. You can find small cafés, old doors, and colourful clothes hanging between buildings. These peaceful streets show a different side of the city, away from the busy areas. It is a nice way to explore and enjoy Dubrovnik in a relaxed way.
Must-Have Experience: Finding unique street art and hidden gems
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
10. Visit The Old Port And Watch The Boats

Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dubrovnik’s Old Port is a lovely place to sit and enjoy the fresh sea air. You can watch boats moving in and out while taking in the peaceful view. It is a good spot to take photos and see local fishermen as they work. The port also has beautiful views of Lokrum Island and the coastline. It is a quiet and relaxing place away from crowds.
Must-Have Experience: Watching the sunrise over the Adriatic
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport
Free things to do in Dubrovnik go beyond its famous walls and Game of Thrones spots. Visit hidden beaches, explore local markets, and enjoy cultural shows for a truly local experience. There’s something for history lovers, adventure seekers, and those who enjoy quiet places. Step away from the crowds and see a different side of the city. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore Dubrovnik’s real charm!
Cover Photo: gari.baldi / Wikimedia Commons