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Where to go to skip crowds in Dubrovnik?

Want to skip crowds in Dubrovnik? Discover peaceful alternatives, quiet beaches, and lesser-known viewpoints just minutes from the Old Town.

Dubrovnik is one of the most visited cities in the Mediterranean, welcoming over 1.5 million tourists annually. During peak season — typically from mid-June to early September — the city can host up to 20,000 visitors per day, with numbers even higher on cruise ship days. The most visited spots include the Old Town, the City Walls, and Banje Beach, which often get congested by mid-morning.

While the city’s beauty is undeniable, the large crowds often take away from the experience — especially in the Old Town. The good news? You don’t have to go far to find peace and quiet.

Here’s how to enjoy Dubrovnik without getting stuck in the crowds.

Start your day early or wait for sunset

Timing matters. If you want to walk the city walls, visit them right when they open — usually around 8:00 AM. By 9:30, the first cruise groups arrive. The same applies to the Old Town streets. Early morning is not only quieter, but also cooler and better for photography.

Evenings are another good option. After 7:00 PM, the day visitors start to leave, and you can enjoy a slower pace with better restaurant availability and more space to move.

We also recommend doing what locals do — enjoy natural spots in the early morning or plan your group activities well in advance to avoid delays. A little preparation makes a big difference, especially during high season.

Author: DU The Wire

Idea: hike to Mount Srđ instead of taking the cable car

The Dubrovnik Cable Car is a popular attraction, and the lines can be long — especially midday. If you’re up for it, hiking to Mount Srđ gives you the same views without the wait. The trail starts just outside the Old Town and takes about 45 minutes uphill.

It’s a moderate hike, not overly steep, and offers fantastic photo spots along the way. Once at the top, you’ll find a café, a small museum, and views over the Elafiti Islands.

Bonus reading tip: The best viewpoints in Dubrovnik

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Visit Lokrum Island before 10 AM

Lokrum is a green escape just 10 minutes from Dubrovnik by boat. Most people head there between 11 AM and 1 PM, so if you go early, you’ll enjoy the shaded paths, botanical gardens, and rocky beaches in peace.

There are no cars or hotels on Lokrum — just peacocks, pine trees, and sea views. It’s a great place for families or couples looking for a relaxed day out.

Bonus reading tip: What’s that island across from Dubrovnik? It’s Lokrum

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Skip Banje Beach — find a smaller cove

Banje is Dubrovnik’s most famous beach, but it’s also the most crowded and pricey. If you prefer something quieter, try the Šulići Beach near Pile Gate or the rocky areas under Park Gradac.

There’s also Bellevue Beach, which is popular with locals. These spots offer clean water, fewer people, and more space to stretch out a towel.

Bonus reading tip: Top 5 less crowded beaches in Dubrovnik

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Take the west wall walk

Most visitors start walking the city walls from the Ploče Gate entrance, heading east and following the typical loop. The western sections are often less busy — and they offer different views, including the open sea, Lovrijenac Fortress, and hidden corners of the Old Town.

If you time it right (early morning or late afternoon), you’ll have more room to enjoy the views without bumping into tour groups.

Explore Dubrovnik’s lesser-known nature paths

You don’t have to leave the city to find quiet walking trails. The area around Nuncijata and the outer parts of Lapad have forest paths, benches, and shaded walks ideal for short escapes.

Park Gradac, just above the Old Town, is another peaceful area. It’s often overlooked but offers sea views and a green break from stone and steps.

Bonus reading tip: Dubrovnik best kept secrets

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Try the DU the Wire zipline for views without the crowds

Instead of waiting in line at the cable car, you can hike or drive up to the DU the Wire zipline station above Dubrovnik. It’s located in a quiet natural setting with wide views over the coast, Lokrum, and the Adriatic.

The zipline ride lasts about a minute and is designed for all ages. You can relax before or after your ride, enjoy the forest shade, and feel far from the city noise — even though you’re only 15 minutes away.

Get your zipline tickets

DU The Wire zipline in Dubrovnik is the best option for both - a great holiday and a thrilling experience you will never forget.

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Visit nearby towns like Cavtat or Trsteno

If you want a full day away from the city, head to Cavtat — a small coastal town south of Dubrovnik with a lovely promenade and fewer crowds. Boats and buses connect it easily.

Trsteno is another quiet destination. Known for its arboretum and sea views, it’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a half-day trip.

Bonus reading tip: Is Cavtat worth visiting?

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It all depends on your preferences

Dubrovnik doesn’t have to be a crowded experience. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the best of the city while still finding moments of quiet. Whether it’s an early walk, a hidden beach, or a zipline adventure in nature — there are plenty of ways to skip the crowds and see a different side of Dubrovnik. B

ooking in advance is smart, especially for activities like the city walls or zipline, where capacity is limited. A little preparation goes a long way.