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Ideas for buying a Dubrovnik souvenir

In our Dubrovnik souvenir guide you can find the best ideas for buying a valuable and memorable item.

Bringing home a souvenir from Dubrovnik is more than just picking up a fridge magnet. For many visitors, it’s a way to carry a piece of the city’s heritage, craftsmanship, and character. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or picking up a gift for someone back home, choosing the right Dubrovnik souvenir can turn into a rewarding part of your trip.

This guide explores the most meaningful, traditional, and practical souvenirs you can find in Dubrovnik, along with tips on where to buy them and how to avoid the mass-produced tourist traps.

Souvenirs are more than objects, they are memories

Dubrovnik is a city with a long and proud tradition of craftsmanship. As a former independent republic with its own navy, trade networks, and diplomacy, the city developed a distinct cultural identity. This is reflected today in the symbols, textiles, jewelry, and other items that locals have passed down through generations.

Not all souvenir shops are equal, though. Some are filled with imported items that have little to do with the region. If you want something authentic, you’ll need to know what to look for.

The most authentic Dubrovnik souvenirs

1. St. Blaise (Sveti Vlaho) motifs

St. Blaise is the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and his image appears all over the city — on churches, city gates, coins, and local crafts. Mini statues, medallions, and artwork featuring St. Blaise make for a meaningful souvenir.

You can find these in small religious stores or art studios in the Old Town, especially near the Church of St. Blaise.

2. Dubrovnik lace (konavoska cipka)

This delicate lace comes from the Konavle region, just south of Dubrovnik. Traditionally handmade by women in rural households, it was once used to decorate clothing and home textiles.

Look for lace that is actually handmade — some shops sell machine-made versions that lack the craftsmanship. The best place to find real Dubrovnik lace is at specialty shops focused on Konavle traditions or local cooperatives.

3. Konavle embroidery

Known for its geometric patterns and earthy colors, Konavle embroidery is most often found on traditional costumes worn by women in the region. Today, you can buy pieces embroidered with the same motifs on handbags, wallets, bookmarks, or framed cloth.

These items are easy to pack and make great gifts.

4. Traditional jewelry (peruzine & konavoske naušnice)

Peruzine are large ornamental earrings that are part of traditional Konavle dress, while other types of jewelry include silver filigree rings, brooches, and pendants made in historic patterns. These are typically handcrafted by local goldsmiths and silversmiths using centuries-old techniques.

You can find them in boutique jewelry shops in the Old Town or at artisan fairs.

5. Licitar hearts

Although more commonly associated with continental Croatia, you can find licitar hearts (decorated gingerbread cookies) in Dubrovnik as well. These are colorful, heart-shaped ornaments often gifted during holidays or festivals.

They are decorative, symbolic, and lightweight — ideal for carrying home.

6. Local spirits and delicacies

Prošek (a sweet dessert wine), rakija (local brandy), and herb-based liqueurs like travarica are all part of Dubrovnik’s culinary identity. Many families still produce small batches of these drinks.

If you want something truly local, avoid the glossy bottles in airport shops and look for family-run stores or farmer’s markets (like the one in Gundulić Square).

Other edible souvenirs include:

  • Candied orange peel

  • Dried figs

  • Lavender sachets

  • Olive oil and fig jam

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Practical souvenir shopping tips

Shop local and avoid mass-produced items

Check the labels. If it says “Made in China” or doesn’t mention Croatia at all, it’s not a real Dubrovnik souvenir. Many stands in busy tourist areas sell bulk goods that look traditional but aren’t made locally.

Visit art galleries and cooperatives

Dubrovnik has a growing community of independent artists and crafters. Small galleries often sell postcards, prints, ceramics, or paintings with local themes. These are more personal than generic souvenirs and help support local creatives.

Check the open-air markets

Gundulić Square in the Old Town has a daily market where you can find local honey, dried fruit, soap, and handcrafted goods in the morning hours. You can talk directly to the sellers and learn more about their products.

Where to shop for Dubrovnik souvenirs

You don’t have to go far to find souvenirs, but some areas are better than others:

  • Old Town (within the city walls): Full of shops, but quality varies. Look for stores that promote local artists or display certification.

  • Ploče and Pile Gate areas: Often have boutique stores with handmade goods.

  • Lazareti: Near the eastern entrance, this creative complex sometimes hosts artisans, exhibitions, and local events.

  • Cavtat: If you’re doing a day trip, Cavtat has several stores selling Konavle embroidery and lace in a more relaxed setting.

Valuable items: Paintings, sculptures, and fine art

If you’re looking for something truly special and willing to spend a bit more, Dubrovnik has several small galleries and artist studios that sell original works:

• Paintings of the city – From watercolour street scenes to abstract interpretations, many local painters capture Dubrovnik in unique ways. Always ask if the piece is original or a print.

• Stone or wood sculptures – Inspired by the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s historical motifs, these are excellent for collectors.

• Photography prints – High-quality, signed prints by local photographers showing unique angles of the city.

• Galleries to explore – Look beyond the souvenir shops. Ask locals for small art spaces where you can meet the artist or see them at work.

6. Market tips and where to buy

You’ll find souvenirs all over Dubrovnik, but a few locations are especially good:

• Gundulićeva poljana (main market) – Great for local food items, simple crafts, and casual browsing.

• Side alleys of the Old Town – That’s where the smaller, family-run shops usually are.

• Art galleries – Scattered around the city, often unassuming from the outside, but full of high-quality works.

• Ferry port and airport – Convenient but more expensive and less unique.

When shopping, check if the item is really made in Croatia. Some mass-produced goods are imported.

Budget-friendly tips

• Shop in the morning – Crowds are smaller, and vendors are often more open to talking.

• Bundle small items – Buy several bookmarks or soaps instead of one expensive gift.

• Buy directly from artisans – Better prices and more meaningful connections.

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Expensive or cheap - souvenir is a piece of your past

A Dubrovnik souvenir doesn’t have to be big or expensive. It should remind you of your time in the city — its views, its stories, and the people you met along the way. Whether it’s a hand-painted bowl, a sketch of the rooftops, or a small sculpture from a local artist, the best souvenirs are the ones that speak to you.

And if you’re still not sure what to choose? Walk the streets with open eyes — the right thing will usually find you.