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Where to eat in Dubrovnik on a budget?

Dubrovnik is known for its high prices, so we’re bringing you some tips on where to eat in Dubrovnik on a budget.

It’s no secret that Dubrovnik can be expensive, especially when it comes to food. Sit down anywhere in the Old Town without checking the menu, and you might find yourself paying €25 for a salad and a soft drink. But eating well in Dubrovnik doesn’t have to mean draining your travel budget.

 

If you know where to look, you can have proper meals, snacks and even the occasional sunset picnic — all without stepping into overpriced tourist traps. Here’s how to eat smart, spend less, and still enjoy every bite.

Understand how pricing works in the city

Prices change fast once you step outside the city walls. A bottle of water that costs €4 on Stradun might be €1.20 just a five-minute walk away. The same goes for meals. Restaurants inside the Old Town are priced for tourists. Some are worth it, but many are not.

You don’t need to avoid the centre altogether, but budget travellers should explore beyond the obvious. Pile, Boninovo, Gruž and Lapad all offer more options at much fairer prices — and most are still within walking distance or a short bus ride away.

Do a bit of research before sitting down

Before choosing any restaurant, it’s worth taking five minutes to check it online — even if you’re already standing outside. Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews can be helpful, but don’t just look at the star rating. Pay attention to:

  • The number of reviews — a 4.8 rating from 10 people doesn’t say much

  • Comments about price vs portion — these are often more useful than food photos

  • Mentions of “tourist trap” or “hidden cost” — usually a red flag

  • Recent reviews — menus and service can change quickly in high season

If you’re staying in a guesthouse or apartment hosted by locals, don’t hesitate to ask where they eat. Most hosts are happy to recommend places that are both good and affordable, and you’ll get more honest advice than from most travel forums.

Locals typically avoid the busiest parts of Old Town during mealtimes, knowing where to find reliable food at reasonable prices. It’s the kind of tip you won’t find on a top-10 list — and it might lead you to your favourite meal of the trip.

Stick to bakeries and market stalls for breakfast

Bakeries are your best friend when it comes to budget-friendly breakfasts and snacks. You’ll find them on nearly every corner, usually with fresh pastries, filled rolls, and burek (a warm, savoury pie often made with cheese or meat).

A reasonable price for a pastry is around €1.50–2.00. Burek with a small carton of yoghurt shouldn’t set you back more than €3–4. This is a filling, quick breakfast that locals eat too — no fuss, no reservation, and no hidden costs.

If you prefer something lighter, fruit stands near the main market in Gruž sell fresh seasonal fruit at fair prices. Pick up a handful of cherries or figs for a couple of euros and head to the harbour.

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Create your own picnic with supermarket finds

Supermarkets in Dubrovnik — like the ones you’ll find in Lapad or near Gruž — are perfect for assembling an affordable meal. Pack your own lunch and enjoy it somewhere scenic.

Some easy picnic-friendly ideas:

  • Fresh bread (around €1)

  • Local cheese (soft or aged varieties, often €3–5 for a small piece)

  • Cured meats or olives (available at deli counters or pre-packed)

  • Fruit and vegetables from local markets

  • A bottle of water, juice or even a small local beer

With around €8–10, you can build a full lunch that tastes better than many overhyped restaurant plates — and enjoy it with a sea view, no service charge.

Tip: Bring your own cutlery and a cloth napkin or towel. There are plenty of stone benches and shaded viewpoints where you can sit, eat, and recharge.

Time your meals wisely

Restaurants in tourist-heavy areas often have two menu styles: one for lunch (cheaper) and one for dinner (marked up). If you want to eat out, aim for a late lunch between 2 and 4pm. Many places offer fixed menus or daily specials at lower prices during that window.

If you do sit down for a full meal, watch out for signs of tourist pricing:

  • No menu displayed outside

  • “Traditional Croatian plate” with a long list of items and no price

  • Staff trying to usher you in from the street

  • Locations directly facing major attractions or main squares

Even if the meal seems affordable, check for extra fees — service, bread, table cover — which sometimes appear on the final bill.

Shop like a local and snack on the go

You don’t always need to sit down for a full meal. Many locals snack throughout the day — and you can do the same. Grab a sandwich or wrap from a bakery, a slice of cold pizza, or even a boiled corn cob from a market vendor.

Water fountains are located throughout the city, and tap water is drinkable — no need to buy bottled water every time.

Also, don’t underestimate small shops (mini markets) for simple things like bananas, yogurt, crisps, or crackers to carry in your day bag. These small costs add up to big savings over the course of a few days.

Bonus tip: plan one “splurge” meal and keep the rest casual

If you’re in Dubrovnik for several days, set aside a bit of your budget for one special meal — maybe with a sea view or a dish you’ve been wanting to try. Then keep the rest of your meals low-key. You’ll enjoy the “splurge” more if you haven’t been overspending the whole time.

Keep in mind that not every good meal needs a white tablecloth. Some of the best food here comes wrapped in paper or eaten on a bench.

Good things to know

  • Look for accommodation with a kitchen or shared grill.
    Apartments with basic cooking facilities can save you money — especially if you shop at local markets. Some even have outdoor grills where you can prepare fresh fish or vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxed meal with a view, without paying restaurant prices.

  • Plan your meals the same way you plan your activities.
    Don’t leave eating to chance. Make time for a bakery stop in the morning, a light lunch between tours, and a picnic or casual dinner in the evening. Dubrovnik rewards those who prepare — especially when prices rise with the sun.

  • Dubrovnik isn’t just for luxury travellers.
    While the city is known for its upscale hotels and fine dining, it’s also a great destination for families, students, and anyone travelling with a conscious budget. You can swim, walk, explore and eat well — all without overspending — if you know where to look.

  • Self-catering doesn’t mean missing out.
    Buying your own ingredients, preparing a picnic, or cooking a simple dinner isn’t a downgrade. It’s often the smartest way to enjoy real local food, avoid crowds, and eat at your own pace.

Final thoughts

Dubrovnik doesn’t have to break the bank. The key is knowing how to balance location, timing, and expectations. Skip the main square, seek out local bakeries, shop smart, and plan a picnic every now and then. You’ll eat well, spend less, and probably end up with better stories (and views) than those who stuck to the most expensive tables in town.