The best hotels in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik offers a wide range of hotels, from high-end seaside properties to well-located city hotels, most of them valued for their location, comfort, facilities, and on-site dining.

Hotels in Dubrovnik are mainly concentrated in three areas: Ploče, Lapad, and Gruž. As a general rule, hotels closer to the Old Town are more expensive, while areas slightly further away offer better value. Compared to other types of accommodation such as apartments or guesthouses, hotels are usually priced higher but often include breakfast and additional services.

Ploče is located just east of the Old Town and is considered the most prestigious hotel and residential area in Dubrovnik. It is known for its villas, gardens, nearby beaches, and panoramic views of the Old Town. Many of Dubrovnik’s best-known hotels are located in this area.

Lapad Bay is a popular hotel zone west of the Old Town, known for its pedestrian promenade, Mediterranean greenery, and a mix of sandy and rocky beaches. Hotels in Lapad also offer views towards the Elaphiti Islands, including Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan.

Gruž is the main transport and port area of Dubrovnik, home to the city’s main harbour, ferry connections, the main bus station, and the local market. Hotels in Gruž are generally more affordable and well connected to the Old Town by public transport.

Travellers looking for more affordable accommodation may also want to explore apartments, guesthouses, and rooms in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Hotels - good to know

• Best area for first-time visitors: Ploče or hotels within easy walking distance of the Old Town.
• Best area for beaches and resort hotels: Lapad Bay and Babin Kuk, known for seaside promenades and larger hotel complexes.
• Best area for budget-friendly hotels: Gruž, offering lower prices and good public transport connections to the Old Town.
• Typical hotel prices: Highest during the summer season from June to September, with noticeably lower rates in spring and autumn.
• Best time to book: Book several months in advance for summer stays, while last-minute availability is more common outside peak season.

Best Areas to Stay in Dubrovnik

If you are choosing where to stay in Dubrovnik, the best “hotel zones” are easy to understand: the Old Town and nearby Ploče are best for sightseeing and atmosphere, Lapad and Babin Kuk are best for beaches and resort-style stays, while Gruž is the practical choice for transport links and better-value hotels. Wherever you stay, you can usually reach the Old Town by local bus or taxi, and planning your base around what you want to do most (beaches, walking, day trips, early mornings) makes the biggest difference.

Hotels in Dubrovnik Old Town

Staying in the Old Town puts you right inside Dubrovnik’s historic centre, perfect for early morning walks, late dinners, and sightseeing without transport. This area is ideal if you plan to spend most of your time inside the city walls and want everything on your doorstep.

• Best for: first-time visitors, short stays, sightseeing-focused trips
• Good to know: access can involve stairs and narrow streets; parking is limited; rooms can be smaller due to historic buildings

Hotels in Ploče

Ploče sits just east of the Old Town and is widely considered the most prestigious hotel and residential area. Many of Dubrovnik’s best-known hotels are here, often offering sea views, gardens, and a quieter feel while still being close enough to walk to the Old Town.

• Best for: luxury stays, couples, sea views and walkability
• Good to know: prices are usually higher than other areas; some properties have steep approaches

Hotels in Lapad

Lapad is one of the most popular areas to stay outside the Old Town, known for its promenade, Mediterranean greenery, and a good choice of beaches. It offers a balance between relaxing by the sea and easy access to the Old Town by public transport.

• Best for: families, beach time, longer stays, good hotel choice
• Good to know: in peak summer, buses can be busy; some hotels are uphill from the promenade

Hotels in Gruž

Gruž is Dubrovnik’s main port and transport hub, where you will find the main harbour, the main bus station, and good links for day trips. Hotels here are often better value, and it is a convenient base if you plan to use ferries from Dubrovnik or arrive and depart by bus.

• Best for: value-focused travellers, day trips, arrivals by bus or ferry
• Good to know: it is not a beach area; you will rely more on buses or taxis for sightseeing and swimming spots

Hotels in Babin Kuk

Babin Kuk is a quieter, greener peninsula at the end of the Lapad area, best known for larger resort-style hotels and easy access to several popular beaches. It is a strong choice if your ideal Dubrovnik trip includes pools, spa facilities, and a more relaxed base away from the crowds.

• Best for: resort hotels, beach lovers, families, a quieter stay
• Good to know: you are further from the Old Town than Ploče or the centre, so transport planning matters

If you plan to use public transport regularly, it helps to review Dubrovnik bus routes and practical tips before you book. If you are arriving with a car, read our guide to driving and access in Dubrovnik, as parking and Old Town access rules can influence which area is most convenient.

Hotels in Dubrovnik by Budget

Hotel prices in Dubrovnik vary widely depending on location, season, and hotel category. Grouping hotels by budget makes it easier to set realistic expectations and choose accommodation that fits your travel style, especially during the busy summer months.

Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik

Luxury hotels in Dubrovnik are mainly located in Ploče, Babin Kuk, and along the coast near Lapad. These hotels typically offer sea views, private beach access, swimming pools, spa facilities, and on-site restaurants.

• What to expect: premium locations, high service standards, full hotel facilities
• Typical locations: Ploče and Babin Kuk
• Price note: highest rates during peak summer season, especially July and August

Mid-Range Hotels in Dubrovnik

Mid-range hotels offer the best balance between comfort and price for many travellers. They are commonly found in Lapad and Gruž, with good public transport connections to the Old Town and services such as breakfast included.

• What to expect: comfortable rooms, reliable services, good value for money
• Typical locations: Lapad and Gruž
• Best for: couples, families, and longer stays

Budget Hotels in Dubrovnik

Budget hotels in Dubrovnik are fewer than apartments or guesthouses, but they can be a practical option if you prefer hotel-style accommodation at a lower price. These hotels are usually located in Gruž or further from the Old Town and rely on local buses or taxis for access.

Travellers looking for cheaper hotel options can explore budget hotels in Dubrovnik, while those travelling on a very tight budget may want to consider hostels in Dubrovnik as an alternative.

• What to expect: basic rooms, limited facilities, lower prices
• Typical locations: Gruž and outer residential areas
• Good to know: apartments and private rooms often offer better value at similar prices

When to Book Hotels in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is one of the most visited destinations on the Croatian coast, and hotel availability changes quickly depending on the season. If you are travelling in summer, it is smart to book early to secure the best location and room type. In spring and autumn you will usually find better value and more choice, while winter stays are easiest to arrange last minute (with fewer hotels operating at full capacity).

• June to September (peak season): book as early as possible, especially if you want a hotel close to the Old Town, a sea view, or family rooms.
• April, May and October (shoulder season): a good balance of weather, prices, and availability, with more flexibility for shorter stays.
• November to March (off season): best for lower prices and quiet sightseeing, but check in advance which facilities are open and whether a hotel has reduced services.

If your dates are flexible, it can help to plan around local events and weather. Use our events calendar and the Dubrovnik weather guide when deciding when to visit and how far in advance to book.

How Much Do Hotels in Dubrovnik Cost?

Hotel prices in Dubrovnik vary significantly depending on the season, location, and hotel category. Hotels close to the Old Town or with sea views are generally the most expensive, while areas such as Lapad and Gruž offer a wider range of prices.

• Peak season (June to September): budget and mid-range hotels typically start at around €150–250 per night, while luxury hotels often range from €400 upwards, especially in July and August.
• Shoulder season (April, May and October): prices are noticeably lower, with mid-range hotels commonly available from €100–180 per night and better availability across all categories.
• Off season (November to March): the lowest prices overall, with some hotels offering rooms from around €80–120 per night, although fewer hotels operate at full capacity.

As a general rule, hotels in Ploče and the Old Town sit at the top end of the price range, while Lapad and Gruž usually offer better value for money, particularly for longer stays.

Price disclaimer: these figures are indicative and based on typical market patterns. Prices change frequently due to demand, events, and availability, so always check the official hotel website or booking platform for current rates.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel in Dubrovnik

Choosing the right hotel in Dubrovnik depends on more than just price. Location, access, and your daily plans can have a big impact on how convenient and comfortable your stay will be, especially during the busy summer months.

• Location vs price: hotels closer to the Old Town are more expensive but save time on transport, while Lapad and Gruž usually offer better value with easy bus connections.
• Parking and access: if you are arriving by car, check whether the hotel offers parking and how accessible it is, as Old Town areas have traffic restrictions and limited parking.
• Stairs and terrain: Dubrovnik is hilly, and some hotels involve steep walks or stairs, which may be important if you are travelling with luggage, children, or mobility concerns.
• Sea view vs convenience: sea-view rooms often come at a premium, while inland or city-facing rooms can be significantly cheaper without affecting comfort.
• Length of stay: for longer stays, areas like Lapad or Babin Kuk are often more comfortable, while short city breaks work well in or near the Old Town.

Before booking, it also helps to check public transport options and walking distances to the places you plan to visit most often. Small practical details often make a bigger difference than hotel category alone.

Hotels vs Apartments in Dubrovnik

When planning a stay in Dubrovnik, many travellers choose between hotels and private apartments. Both options are widely available, but they suit different travel styles and expectations.

Hotels are a good choice if you prefer on-site services such as reception, daily cleaning, breakfast, and organised facilities like pools or restaurants. They are also convenient for shorter stays, first-time visits, or travellers who value location and simplicity.

Apartments and private rooms are often more affordable, especially for longer stays or families, and usually offer more space and kitchen facilities. They are common across residential areas of Dubrovnik and can provide good value during peak season.

If you are comparing hotel prices with other accommodation types, it may help to also check apartments, guesthouses, and rooms in Dubrovnik, and for more space and privacy see villas in Dubrovnik.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dubrovnik Hotels

Is it better to stay inside the Old Town?

Staying inside the Old Town is ideal if you want to be close to major sights, restaurants, and evening activities. However, hotels there are usually more expensive, rooms can be smaller, and access often involves stairs. Areas just outside the Old Town, such as Ploče, offer a good balance between location and comfort.

Are hotels in Dubrovnik expensive?

Hotels in Dubrovnik are generally more expensive than in many other Croatian destinations, especially during the summer season. Prices are highest in July and August, while spring and autumn offer better value. Choosing areas like Lapad or Gruž instead of the Old Town can significantly reduce costs.

Do Dubrovnik hotels offer parking?

Some hotels offer private parking, but it is limited and often comes at an extra cost. Parking is especially restricted near the Old Town due to traffic regulations. If you are arriving by car, it is important to check parking availability in advance and consider hotels outside the historic centre.

How far are hotels from Dubrovnik Old Town?

The distance depends on the area. Hotels in the Old Town and Ploče are within walking distance, while Lapad and Babin Kuk are typically 10–20 minutes away by bus or taxi. Gruž is also well connected by public transport, making it a practical option for reaching the Old Town.

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Where to Stay and What to Do in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik offers a wide range of accommodation options depending on your budget, travel style, and whether you plan to stay inside the city or explore the surrounding area.

If you are looking for full-service accommodation, browse the best hotels in Dubrovnik. Travellers who prefer more flexibility or better value often choose apartments, guesthouses, and rooms in Dubrovnik, while those staying outside the city may want to consider apartments and guesthouses along the Dubrovnik Riviera.

Planning your arrival is an important part of organising your stay. Depending on how you travel, you can check Dubrovnik ferry routes and timetables, flights to Dubrovnik Airport and airport transfer options, travelling to Dubrovnik by bus, or travelling to Dubrovnik by car.

Once you are in Dubrovnik, there is plenty to see and do. Start with the best things to do in Dubrovnik, plan day trips from Dubrovnik, or explore guided tours, water sports, and outdoor options in our activities guide.