As the 2024 season comes to an end and 2025 approaches, I want to address a question I hear often during my guided tours: “Is Dubrovnik really that expensive?”
As a local who loves her hometown, I want to share authentic tips to help you make the most of your stay here. This is the first article in a series where each post will explore a different aspect of your holiday. Let’s start with something essential—food.
Is Dubrovnik expensive or not?
The answer depends on your perspective. If you expect Dubrovnik to be a cheap destination, reminiscent of its communist past, you might be surprised. However, if you see it as one of the world’s most prestigious tourist destinations, the prices will likely align with your expectations.
In Dubrovnik, the cost of dining is comparable to cities like Paris or the French Riviera. In restaurants located within the old town or other popular areas, a meal typically starts at around 25 EUR per person, depending on the location and the type of restaurant.
Local specialties you must try
Dubrovnik’s cuisine is an integral part of its culture and should not be missed. Local specialties include peka (a slow-cooked dish), black risotto, fresh Adriatic fish, and desserts like the famous Ston cake.
You can enjoy these dishes in Dubrovnik itself, but also in nearby villages like Ston, Cavtat, or Konavle. I particularly recommend small family-run restaurants in rural areas. These places often offer a peaceful atmosphere, fresh vegetables and fruit you can pick yourself, and significantly lower prices compared to the old town.
In Ston, known for its oysters and mussels, visit the Sorgo restaurant. In Konavle, Konoba Vinica Monković is a must, especially for enjoying peka and other meat dishes. Be sure to order peka in advance, as it takes several hours to prepare.
Restaurants within the old town
Dubrovnik offers a wide variety of restaurants for every taste and budget. For a high-end experience, I recommend Nautika, Proto, 360, Panorama, and my personal favorite, Posat, located near Pile Gate. These restaurants require reservations, sometimes weeks or even months in advance, especially during the high season.
For a more casual atmosphere, head to Prijeko Street, which runs parallel to the Stradun. My recommendations include Moby Dick, Dalmatino, and Spaghetteria Toni, perfect for pasta lovers. Don’t miss Kamenica on Gundulić Square, famous for its fresh seafood.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, try Pizzeria Castro, while those looking for something unique can enjoy Bosnian cuisine at Taj Mahal. Despite its Indian name, the restaurant is known for dishes like begova čorba (traditional soup), sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), and dolmas. With two locations—one within the old town and one outside—you’ll have no trouble finding a table.
Fast food and bakeries
For a quick bite, Dubrovnik offers many fast food options, including the popular Barba, known for its fish-based dishes. Bakeries are also very popular, especially for burek, a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. It’s the go-to snack for locals on the move.
Restaurants outside the old town
Dubrovnik is more than just its old town. You can find excellent restaurants in other parts of the city. On Lapad’s waterfront, the Blidinje restaurant, near the marina Frappa, is known for its fish, meat, and peka dishes.
In Gruž, the Prova restaurant, located next to the city market, offers a great selection of fish and meat dishes. For vegetarians and vegans, options are limited, but Urban and Veggie, also in Gruž, is worth a visit.
Shopping for groceries in Dubrovnik
If you’re staying in an apartment with a kitchen, you can prepare some of your meals yourself. Supermarkets like Konzum, Studenac, and Tommy are widely available. Studenac tends to be more expensive but is very convenient.
Keep in mind: in Croatia, most stores are closed on Sundays. If you’re arriving late on a Saturday, check with your host to see which stores might be open nearby.
Dubrovnik may not be the cheapest destination in the world. But there are plenty of options to suit every budget. There’s something for everyone, from family-run restaurants to fine dining. Just as important as visiting historical landmarks is exploring the local cuisine.
I hope these tips help you plan and enjoy your stay in this beautiful city.
Bon appétit!
Vesna