Where to Stay in Dubrovnik 2026: Old Town vs Lapad

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: A 2026 Neighborhood Guide

Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," offers a stunning backdrop for any vacation. But choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for a perfect trip. Are you here for the ancient history within the city walls, the sparkling beaches of a relaxed peninsula, or the glamorous views from a luxury villa? This guide breaks down Dubrovnik's best areas to stay, optimized with data to help you make the best choice for your 2026 travel plans.

The Main Contenders: A Quick Comparison

Your decision will likely come down to three main areas, each with a distinct personality:

• Old Town: The historic core. Best for short stays, history buffs, and those who want to be in the center of the action.
• Lapad: A green peninsula with beaches, promenades, and restaurants. Best for families, longer stays, and beach lovers.
• Ploče: The area just east of the Old Town. Best for luxury travelers and anyone seeking postcard-perfect views.

Let's dive deeper into what each neighborhood offers.

Old Town: The Historic Heart

Staying inside Dubrovnik's 1,940-meter-long city walls is a truly magical experience. You'll be sleeping in a UNESCO World Heritage site, with centuries-old stone buildings, narrow alleyways, and iconic landmarks like the Stradun (the main street), Rector's Palace, and Sponza Palace right at your doorstep.

Who Should Stay in the Old Town?

First-time visitors, couples on a romantic getaway, and history enthusiasts will love the Old Town. The convenience is unmatched; you can wake up early and explore the city before the day-tripper crowds arrive. Every bar, restaurant, and major sight is within a 10-minute walk.

Pros & Cons of Staying in the Old Town

• Pros:

Unbeatable atmosphere and historic charm. All major attractions are within walking distance. Huge selection of restaurants and bars.

• Cons:

Can be very crowded, especially from 10:00 to 16:00. Accommodation is the most expensive in the city. Can be noisy at night due to bars and revelers. Lots of stairs ('klimas') – be prepared to climb if your apartment is off the main street.

Accommodation & Prices

Expect to pay a premium. Boutique hotels and private apartments (sobe) are the main options.

• Boutique Hotels: €250 - €500+ per night. (e.g., The Pucic Palace, St. Joseph's Hotel).
• Private Apartments: €200 - €350 per night for a one-bedroom in high season (June-August).

Insider Tip: When booking an apartment, check its location on a map. Properties higher up on the northern side of the Stradun involve climbing many steep stone staircases.

Lapad: The Beach & Family Hub

Located about 3.5 km northwest of the Old Town, the Lapad peninsula is a different world. It’s greener, more spacious, and centered around the beautiful Uvala Lapad (Lapad Bay). This area offers a resort-like feel with a long pedestrian promenade lined with cafes, gelaterias, and restaurants, leading to several pebble beaches.

Who Should Stay in Lapad?

Families with children, beach lovers, and travelers on a slightly tighter budget will find Lapad ideal. It offers a more relaxed vacation experience while still being well-connected to the Old Town by a frequent bus service (Bus No. 6, a 10-15 minute ride).

Pros & Cons of Staying in Lapad

• Pros:

Excellent access to multiple beaches (Lapad Beach, Copacabana Beach). More affordable hotels and restaurants compared to the Old Town. Family-friendly with playgrounds and pedestrian areas. Generally quieter and more relaxing.

• Cons:

Requires a bus or taxi ride to reach the Old Town. Lacks the historic atmosphere of the Old Town. Can feel very tourist-focused in high season.

Accommodation & Prices

Lapad is home to many of Dubrovnik's larger hotels, often with swimming pools and direct beach access.

• 4-Star Hotels: €180 - €350 per night (e.g., Hotel More, Hotel Kompas).
• Apartments: €150 - €250 per night.

Insider Tip: Explore the walking path that wraps around the entire Lapad peninsula. It offers stunning sea views, hidden swimming spots, and passes by several cave bars built into the cliffs.

Ploče: The Luxury Viewpoint

Ploče lies immediately east of the Old Town, stretching from the Ploče Gate to the iconic Sveti Jakov Beach. This is Dubrovnik's most exclusive neighborhood, famous for its five-star hotels and breathtaking, unobstructed views of the city walls, the old port, and Lokrum Island.

Who Should Stay in Ploče?

Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and anyone who wants that iconic Dubrovnik photo from their balcony should stay in Ploče. It offers the perfect balance: proximity to the Old Town (a 5-10 minute walk) without the intense crowds inside the walls.

Pros & Cons of Staying in Ploče

• Pros:

The absolute best views of the Old Town. Home to the city's most luxurious hotels. Walking distance to Banje Beach, the city's most famous beach. Quieter than being inside the walls.

• Cons:

The most expensive area in Dubrovnik. The terrain is steep; expect to walk up hills and stairs. * Fewer casual dining options compared to Lapad or the Old Town.

Accommodation & Prices

This is where you'll find the pinnacle of Dubrovnik hospitality.

• 5-Star Hotels: €400 - €800+ per night (e.g., Hotel Excelsior, Villa Dubrovnik).
• Luxury Villas/Apartments: €300 - €700+ per night.

Insider Tip: The Ploče Gate is often less crowded than the Pile Gate, making it a more pleasant entry point into the Old Town. Use it to your advantage, especially during peak hours.

Other Neighborhoods to Consider

Gruž: The Local & Practical Hub

Gruž is the working port of Dubrovnik, located about 3 km from the Old Town. This is where the main bus station and ferry terminal are, making it a convenient base for island hopping to Mljet, Korčula, or the Elaphiti Islands. It has a fantastic green market and a more local, authentic feel.

• Best for: Budget travelers, island hoppers, and those seeking an authentic experience.
• Average Price: €100 - €220 per night.

Babin Kuk: The Resort Complex

At the northern end of the Lapad peninsula, Babin Kuk is a purpose-built tourist area dominated by large hotel complexes, like those from the Valamar group. It's self-contained, with manicured beaches (like Copacabana and Coral Beach Club), pools, and sports facilities.

• Best for: All-inclusive resort seekers and families who want everything in one place.
• Average Price: €180 - €350 per night.

Final Verdict: Where Should You Stay?

• For a short, historic, and romantic trip: Choose the Old Town. The magic of being within the walls is undeniable, despite the cost and crowds.
• For a relaxing beach holiday with family: Choose Lapad. The balance of beaches, amenities, and value is perfect for a longer stay.
• For a luxurious trip with unforgettable views: Choose Ploče. The glamour and vistas are worth the premium price tag.
• For a budget-friendly or island-hopping trip: Choose Gruž. The practical location and local prices make it a smart choice.