Dubrovnik Weather Guide & Best Time to Visit (2026)

Dubrovnik Weather: Your Ultimate 2026 Guide

Dubrovnik, the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', boasts a classic Mediterranean climate defined by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Choosing the right time to visit can transform your trip from a crowded, expensive ordeal into a blissful coastal escape. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of Dubrovnik's weather patterns, crowd levels, and pricing to help you plan the perfect vacation.

When is the Absolute Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik?

For the ideal combination of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices, plan your visit for the shoulder seasons.

• Early Summer (May and June): This is arguably the best period. The weather is consistently warm and sunny, with average high temperatures between 22°C and 26°C. The sea has warmed up enough for comfortable swimming, especially by June when water temperatures reach 22°C. You'll find the city vibrant but not yet overwhelmed by the peak season crowds.
• Early Autumn (September): September is another prime month. The intense summer heat subsides to a comfortable 25°C average, but the Adriatic Sea remains at its warmest, around 23-24°C. Most of the summer crowds have dispersed, but the city's restaurants, bars, and attractions are still fully operational.

A Breakdown by Travel Style

For Perfect Weather & Swimming: June to September

If your primary goal is sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic, this four-month window is your best bet. July and August offer the hottest air (averaging 28-30°C) and sea temperatures (25°C). However, this comes with the highest prices and largest crowds, especially when multiple cruise ships dock.

Insider Tip: To enjoy a swim without the crowds in peak summer, visit Sveti Jakov Beach, located a 25-minute walk (around 1.7 km) east of the Old Town. It requires descending over 160 steps, which deters many, but rewards you with stunning views of the city and a more relaxed atmosphere.

For Budget Travelers: April & October

Traveling on a budget? April and October offer significant savings. Accommodation prices can be 30-50% lower than in July and August. Flights are also cheaper. The weather is more unpredictable but often pleasant. April sees spring in full bloom with average highs of 17°C, while October remains mild at 20°C, and the sea is often still warm enough for a brave swim (around 20°C).

To Avoid Crowds: November to March

If you want to experience Dubrovnik like a local and have the historic streets almost to yourself, visit in the winter. Be prepared for cooler temperatures (8-14°C) and a higher chance of rain, particularly in November and December. Many tourist-focused restaurants and tours will be closed, but you can explore the city's museums and architecture in peace. A major highlight is the Feast of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik's patron saint, on February 3rd, which offers a unique cultural experience.

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Dubrovnik Weather by Month: A Detailed Breakdown

Here’s what you can expect from the climate throughout the year.

Spring in Dubrovnik (March, April, May)

Spring sees Dubrovnik awaken from its winter slumber. The days grow longer, the sun feels warmer, and the landscape turns green.

• March: Still cool with an average high of 14°C and a significant chance of rain. The sea is a chilly 14°C. It's a quiet month for sightseeing without crowds.
• April: A beautiful month where the weather becomes more reliable. Average highs reach 17°C. Pack layers, as evenings are cool. Wildflowers are abundant on Lokrum Island.
• May: The tourist season officially kicks off. The weather is fantastic, with average highs of 22°C and around 9 hours of daily sunshine. The sea temperature climbs to about 18°C, making the first swims of the year possible.

Summer in Dubrovnik (June, July, August)

This is peak season. Expect heat, sun, crowds, and the highest prices. The city is buzzing with energy and events.

• June: The perfect balance of summer heat and manageable crowds. Average highs are a pleasant 26°C. The sea is a comfortable 22°C. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival often begins in late June.
• July: The hottest month begins. Average highs are around 29°C, but heatwaves can push temperatures well into the 30s. There's very little rain. The City Walls, which cost €35 per adult, are best visited at their 8:00 AM opening time to avoid the midday sun.
• August: Similar to July, with average highs of 29°C and the warmest sea temperatures of the year at 25°C. This is the busiest and most expensive month. Book accommodation and popular tours at least 6 months in advance.

Autumn in Dubrovnik (September, October, November)

Autumn offers a welcome respite from the summer intensity. The weather remains warm, and the sea is perfect for swimming.

• September: A fantastic month to visit. The heat is less intense (average high 25°C), the sea is warm (23°C), and the crowds begin to thin, especially in the latter half of the month.
• October: The weather becomes more mixed. The first half is often sunny with highs around 20°C, but the chance of rainy days increases. The sea is still swimmable for many at 20°C.
• November: The start of the rainy season. Average highs drop to 16°C. Many hotels and restaurants close for the winter. It's a very quiet month, ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind the rain.

Winter in Dubrovnik (December, January, February)

Winter is the off-season. It's characterized by mild but damp weather and a peaceful atmosphere.

• December: The rainiest month of the year. Temperatures average 9-13°C. The city is decorated for Christmas, and the Dubrovnik Winter Festival provides a festive atmosphere.
• January: The coldest month, with average highs of 12°C. It’s quiet and perfect for exploring museums like the Rector's Palace (entry fee: approx. €15).
• February: Still cool and quiet, but the city comes alive for the multi-day Feast of St. Blaise, a major cultural event with processions and ceremonies dating back to the year 972.

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Key Planning Factors

City Walls & Attraction Hours

Be aware that opening hours for major attractions change with the season. The iconic City Walls have the longest hours in summer (e.g., 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM) and the shortest in winter (e.g., 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM). Always check the official website before your visit.

Prices: Flights and Accommodation

You can expect prices to fluctuate dramatically based on the season.

• Peak Season (July-August): A mid-range hotel room can cost €250-€400+ per night.
• Shoulder Season (May, June, Sept): The same room might cost €150-€250 per night.
• Off-Season (Nov-March): Prices can drop to €70-€120 per night, offering exceptional value.

Insider Tip: For cheaper food options, avoid the main street of Stradun. Walk just a few meters down the side alleys to find restaurants like Buffet Kamenice, famous for its fresh oysters at a reasonable price (around €3 per oyster).

Sea Temperature and Swimming

The Adriatic Sea is generally swimmable from late May to early October.

• May: 18°C (brisk)
• June: 22°C (comfortable)
• July/August: 25°C (very warm)
• September: 23°C (perfect)
• October: 20°C (refreshing)

Lapad Beach, about 3.5 km from the Old Town, is a great family-friendly option with calmer waters and numerous amenities.