Dubrovnik, much like the rest of Croatia, is best explored in the warm months, especially in the height of summer. This means comfortable swims in the crystal clear sea, day trips to islands, and generally more pleasant outdoor activities.
Additionally, visiting Dubrovnik in the summer means all restaurants, hotels, and other businesses will open. Outside the season, some do temporarily close.
However, the best time to visit Dubrovnik is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer months, and you can enjoy exploring the city without feeling too overwhelmed.
High season in Dubrovnik
High season in Dubrovnik typically runs from late June to the end of August, but recently, it has extended until the end of September.
The summer weather in Dubrovnik is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s historic sites and enjoying the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Sea.
The benefit of visiting Dubrovnik in the high season is that it offers the best conditions to enjoy all that summer offers, from hot sunny days on the beaches and islands to drinking a cocktail in a bar at sunset.
If you’re planning a visit during the high season, expect the streets and attractions of Dubrovnik to be crowded. Also, booking accommodations and activities at the last minute is not the best idea.
- Don’t know where to stay in Dubrovnik? Read our Dubrovnik Hotel Guide to explore the best areas and hotels for all budgets.
The high season also means higher prices due to increased demand. So, if you’re a budget traveler, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more affordable experience.
Low season in Dubrovnik
The low season in Dubrovnik lasts from November to March when you can enjoy fewer crowds, discounted prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
While some attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours or are closed during this time, it is an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s historic sites without the usual hustle and bustle.
Although the weather may be colder during the low season, the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and charming Old Town are just as picturesque year-round.
Another thing to note is that there are fewer flights to Dubrovnik during the low season, as some routes only operate during the summer months. And if you’re coming to Dubrovnik before April, some tours, like day trips to nearby islands, might not operate just yet.
Additionally, off-peak periods in Dubrovnik mean lower prices for accommodations and activities.
Note: When you visit Dubrovnik outside the season, you will have less time to explore attractions, as they have shorter opening hours, plus the days are much shorter, so you’re limited in what you can do in one day.
Read our One Day in Dubrovnik Itinerary to optimize your time.
What is the cheapest time to visit Dubrovnik?
The cheapest time to visit Dubrovnik is winter – the exact opposite of the best time to visit Dubrovnik.
The second cheapest time to visit Dubrovnik is the shoulder season when the weather is still great.
- Want to spend less on a Dubrovnik trip? Read our Guide to Dubrovnik on a Budget.
Visiting Dubrovnik in the shoulder season
The shoulder seasons in Dubrovnik are March to May during spring and September to November in autumn.
However, in reality, shoulder seasons in Dubrovnik are no longer much of a thing. There is now the season and the time outside the season (winter).
But don’t get us wrong. There is definitely a difference between traveling to Dubrovnik at the height of summer and visiting outside of it.
However, with significantly increased tourism to not only Dubrovnik but also Croatia and the whole of Europe in general, the shoulder season turned into the season.
What does that mean?
This means that months that were previously less busy in Dubrovnik, like autumn from September to November and spring (March to May), are now quite busy.
The pre-season time in Dubrovnik can now be equally busy as the end of high season. Plus, the high season extended from September into October.
Is it worth visiting Dubrovnik in the winter?
If you’re only interested in visiting Dubrovnik for its Old Town, the City Walls, the museums, and similar historical attractions, then winter is a perfect time to visit.
So, if you’re not coming for the beaches, trips to the islands, and water sports, it’s definitely worth visiting Dubrovnik in the winter.
Arijana once visited Dubrovnik at the beginning of January, just after New Year’s, and while it was cold, it was still an okay time to see the main attractions in the Old Town. The City Walls were mostly empty!
Final thoughts
On our last visit, we spent a week in Dubrovnik in October, and we had a great time exploring the city and swimming at the beaches.
Compared to the pre-season (spring), the end of the high season means the weather is still lovely, and the best part is that the water is super warm, as it was heating up the whole summer.
Overall, no matter which time you choose to visit Dubrovnik, we’re sure you will enjoy it!
Continue reading
- Dubrovnik Travel Guide (things to do)
- One Day Dubrovnik Itinerary (24 hours trip)
- Free Things To Do in Dubrovnik
- Travel to Dubrovnik on a Budget
- Guide to Dubrovnik Old Town
- Best Beaches in Dubrovnik
- Best Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik Pass Review (must-have for saving money)
- Where to stay in Dubrovnik (best areas & hotels)
- Best Dubrovnik Bars & Beach Clubs
