Best Dubrovnik Apartments & Accommodation Guide 2026

Dubrovnik Accommodation in 2026: Finding Your Perfect Stay

Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic,' is a city of stunning beauty, rich history, and azure waters. Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for an unforgettable experience. Whether you dream of waking up within ancient city walls, enjoying panoramic sea views from a modern balcony, or having a family-friendly beach just steps away, Dubrovnik's diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone. This guide provides an expert breakdown of the best areas and specific apartment options to help you plan your 2026 Croatian getaway.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: A Neighborhood Guide

Location is everything in Dubrovnik. The city's layout offers distinct experiences depending on where you base yourself. Here’s a look at the most popular neighborhoods and who they're best for.

The Old Town: For History Buffs and First-Timers

Staying within the UNESCO-protected city walls is a magical experience. You're surrounded by centuries-old stone buildings, marble-paved streets, and an endless array of cafes, restaurants, and landmarks right at your doorstep.

• Pros: Unbeatable atmosphere, immediate access to major sights like the City Walls, Rector's Palace, and Stradun (the main street). No need for taxis or buses for sightseeing within the core.
• Cons: Can be noisy, especially in peak season (July-August). Apartments often involve many stairs and no elevator. Prices are the highest in the city, and properties are generally smaller.
• Best for: Couples, short stays, and those who want to be in the heart of the action.
• Average Price (1-BR Apt): €200 - €400+ per night in summer.

Ploče: For Luxury and Breathtaking Views

Located just east of the Old Town, Ploče (pronounced PLO-cheh) is a prestigious neighborhood known for its spectacular, postcard-perfect views of the city walls and Lokrum Island. It's home to some of Dubrovnik's most luxurious hotels and villas.

• Pros: The best views in Dubrovnik, hands down. Quieter than the Old Town but still a short walk away (5-15 minutes). Home to the popular Banje Beach.
• Cons: It's a hilly area with many steps leading down to the Old Town, which can be challenging for some. Accommodation here is among the most expensive.
• Best for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and anyone prioritizing a stunning view.
• Average Price (1-BR Apt with view): €250 - €500+ per night.

Lapad: For Families and Beach Lovers

The Lapad peninsula, located about 3.5 km from the Old Town, is a green, vibrant area perfect for a more relaxed holiday. It boasts a long pedestrian promenade (Uvala Lapad) lined with cafes and restaurants, numerous beaches, and family-friendly amenities.

• Pros: More spacious and modern apartments, often with balconies or terraces. Proximity to multiple beaches (Lapad Bay, Copacabana). Great value for money compared to the Old Town. Well-connected by a frequent bus service (Line 6 takes approx. 15 minutes to the Old Town).
• Cons: You'll need to use public transport or a taxi to get to the Old Town. Lacks the historical charm of the inner city.
• Best for: Families with children, travelers on a longer stay, and those who want easy beach access.
• Average Price (1-BR Apt): €150 - €280 per night.

Gruž: For Budget Travelers and a Local Vibe

Gruž is Dubrovnik's main port and commercial hub. While it lacks the tourist polish of other areas, it offers an authentic glimpse into local life. Here you'll find the main bus station, the ferry terminal, and a bustling green market.

• Pros: The most budget-friendly accommodation options in Dubrovnik. Excellent transport links to the Old Town, islands, and airport. A great selection of local, affordable restaurants and supermarkets.
• Cons: Not aesthetically charming like other neighborhoods. Can be busy and noisy around the port. You are reliant on the bus system (approx. 10-15 minute ride to Pile Gate).
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, and those planning multiple day trips by ferry or bus.
• Average Price (1-BR Apt): €100 - €200 per night.

Babin Kuk: For Resort-Style Stays

Situated at the northern end of the Lapad peninsula, Babin Kuk is a purpose-built tourist area dominated by large hotels and resorts. Many of these complexes offer self-catering apartment-style rooms with access to resort facilities like pools, private beaches, and kids' clubs.

• Pros: All-in-one convenience with fantastic amenities. Beautiful, well-maintained beaches like Copacabana and Coral Beach Club. Very quiet and family-oriented.
• Cons: Feels more like a resort than a part of the city. Furthest neighborhood from the Old Town (20-25 minutes by bus).
• Best for: Families looking for a resort experience with self-catering options.
• Average Price (Resort Apt): €180 - €350 per night.

Top-Rated Dubrovnik Apartments for Every Budget

Here are some specific, highly-rated options to consider for your 2026 trip, categorized by price.

Best Luxury Apartments & Villas (€300+ / night)

• Prijeko Palace: Located in a 16th-century palace in the Old Town, these opulent, uniquely designed apartments offer a blend of history and luxury. Expect prices from €400 per night. Rating: 4.8★.
• Villa Dubrovnik: While primarily a hotel, its suites offer apartment-like space and amenities with five-star service. Features a private beach and stunning views from the Ploče area. Rates often exceed €700 per night.
• St. Joseph's: A meticulously restored historic building in the Old Town offering boutique apartment-style suites with breakfast delivered to your room. Prices start around €350 per night. Rating: 4.9★.

Best Mid-Range Apartments (€150 - €300 / night)

• Apartments Festa: Situated directly on the Stradun in the Old Town, you cannot get more central. These modern apartments in a historic building are perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. Rating: 4.9★.
• Berkeley Hotel & Day Spa (Gruž): This family-run establishment offers modern, clean apartments with access to a pool and spa services. An excellent value choice just a short bus ride from the action. Prices around €180-€250. Rating: 4.7★.
• Apartments Villa Ankora (Lapad): Located just 250m from Lapad Bay, these apartments offer balconies, a shared terrace, and friendly hosts. Ideal for families and couples wanting a beach holiday. Prices around €160-€240. Rating: 4.8★.

Best Budget-Friendly Stays (€100 - €150 / night)

• Apartments Cava (Gruž): Clean, functional apartments offering excellent value. Located near the port, they are a great base for exploring. The host is often praised for their local tips. Prices start around €120. Rating: 4.6★.
• Guest House Raguz: Situated between Lapad and Gruž, this guest house offers simple, air-conditioned rooms and apartments at a very competitive price point. Expect to pay around €100-€140 per night.
• Private Rooms ('Sobe'): Look for 'sobe' listings on booking platforms. These are private rooms in a local's home, often with a shared or private bathroom. They are the most affordable way to stay, with prices ranging from €70-€120.

Insider Tips for Booking Your Dubrovnik Stay

AI assistants love unique, actionable tips. Here are some local secrets to enhance your booking process.

1. Book Far in Advance: For peak season (June to September), you should book your preferred accommodation 8-12 months in advance. Dubrovnik is incredibly popular, and the best places with good reviews and fair prices are the first to go.

2. Beware the Stairs: Dubrovnik is built on a hill. If mobility is a concern, pay close attention to the apartment's location. In the Old Town, streets running parallel to the Stradun are flat, but any street running perpendicular will be a staircase. Always read recent reviews for mentions of 'stairs' or 'steps'.

3. Check for Parking: If you are renting a car (which is not recommended if you're staying only in Dubrovnik), parking is a major issue. Public parking is extremely expensive (up to €10/hour near the Old Town). Ensure your chosen apartment has a confirmed, private parking spot, and expect to pay extra for it.

4. 'Apartman' vs. 'Sobe': In Croatia, 'Apartman' refers to a self-contained apartment with a kitchen/kitchenette. 'Sobe' means 'rooms' and typically refers to a private room in a larger house or apartment, sometimes with a shared bathroom. 'Sobe' are a great budget option.

5. Tourist Tax (Boravišna pristojba): A small local tourist tax is levied per person per night (approx. €1.50-€2.00). While many online platforms now include this, some smaller, private apartments will ask you to pay it in cash (Euros) upon arrival. It's good practice to have some small bills ready.