A Guide to Dubrovnik in October: Best Things to Do
Thinking about visiting Dubrovnik in October? Keep reading to find out what it’s like and our curated guide to visiting Dubrovnik in the fall.
Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and one you should definitely see at some point in your life. The enchanting city has a timeless beauty and a story that spans centuries even though the filming of the recent series, Game of Thrones put it on many people’s bucket list.
For those seeking an exquisite blend of history, culture, and coastal allure, this Croatian gem is a must on any trip to Croatia or even a stand-alone city break. With direct flights from many European hubs, this is also possible.
Due to its recent fame, Dubrovnik is sadly also synonymous with crowds and overcrowding and a visit outside of the high season is becoming much more popular.
If you’re thinking about visiting Dubrovnik in October or any time outside of the high summer months, this guide is for you. Find out everything you need to know in this curated guide from what the weather’s like to what to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Need the perfect place to stay in Dubrovnik? Read: 17 Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia to Book Now
*This ‘Dubrovnik in October’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.
What is the Weather Like in Dubrovnik in October?
In October, the weather in Dubrovnik is pleasant and generally warm. Gone are the scorching summer temperatures yet the cold temperatures of winter are still to arrive.
As Dubrovnik starts to transition from summer to fall you can expect mixed conditions in October. That means there are still many sunny days and good hours of sunshine but it could be cloudy and a little rainy too.
Having said that, in October you can enjoy many different outdoor activities like hiking Mt Srd, kayaking and boat trips to the surrounding islands.
Generally, the average temperature is in the low 20s, it could be a little cloudy, windy and it could rain.
As someone who lives in the Mediterranean year-round (just over the Adriatic from Dubrovnik), I can say that October is one of those months that could be unseasonably warm or much cooler than you’d hope for.
Given climate change and unstable seasons these days it’s difficult to predict Dubrovnik weather. It’s hard to say just how warm or how many rainy days Dubrovnik will have in October- it just depends on the year.
What’s Dubrovnik in October like?
October is one of the best times to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia. It’s the shoulder season, tourist numbers are dwindling, it’s still warm and pleasant and you can potentially still swim at the beaches.
All the major landmarks in Dubrovnik are still open and all the restaurants too (towards the start of the month).
When I visited towards the beginning of the month, I still found it to be quite crowded, yet doable, everything was open, and the weather was great-warm enough to go to the beach and swim. There were a couple of very windy days.
Top Tip: To get the most out of Dubrovnik in October, visit at the beginning of the month. There’s a considerable difference between Dubrovnik at the beginning of October compared to the end.
Many businesses- think tour agencies and restaurants- start to close mid-month so you could miss out on the very best of what the city can offer.
Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik in October
Explore Old Town Dubrovnik
One of the best things to do in Dubrovnik is to explore the UNESCO Heritage Site Old Town. The Old Town is very compact and is characterised by narrow stone streets flanked by light-stone-coloured buildings, staircases, churches and palaces. It’s absolutely gorgeous.
I highly suggest waking up early and going for a stroll to fully experience the Old Town’s magic.
Start on Stradun, the main thoroughfare where you’ll notice all the old shopfronts and their unique design. You’ll also soon encounter all the other historical points of interest and those make famous by Game of Thrones such as Luza Square, Sponza Palace and Tvrdava Svetog Ivana- the medieval fortress that’s now a museum.
Make sure not to miss the Jesuit Stairs, another famous GoT filming location. Even if, like me, you’re not a fan of GoT (yes, I know..), these spots are still very picturesque.
While exploring the old town make sure to also seek out the rather impressive city gates. These openings in the Dubrovnik city walls were the only ways in and out of the city hundreds of years ago. Two of the most impressive city gates are Ploče Gate and Buza Gate.
Also while walking around Dubrovnik Old Town, make sure to also see the old port and it’s fortress as well as Porporela, a 19th Century stone pier jutting out to sea.
Walk the Dubrovnik Walls
The Dubrovnik City Walls are one of the top attractions in the Old Town. Getting up onto the walls and walking around the entire city is one of the top things to do in Dubrovnik.
The city walls of Dubrovnik are like a journey through time, offering jaw-dropping views of the Old Town on one side and the sparkling Adriatic Coast on the other. It’s easily one of the best places for photos in the entire town too.
From the top of the walls you’ll be able to see the town’s main throughfare, all the major sights like Svetog Ivana Fortress, the Cathedral of the Assumption and Dubrovnik’s Old Port.
There are a few different entrances to get up onto the wall, the main two being at Pile Gate and Buza Gate. You walk the walls in an anti-clockwise direction as in parts they are very narrow.
Top Tip: The walls get extremely busy very quickly. To make the most of the experience (and the photo opportunities) get onto the walls when they open, at 8am.
Do a Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour
One of the most popular tours in Dubrovnik, this one speaks for itself. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this is a must-do.
You could technically visit all the filming locations yourself, but by going around with a knowledgeable guide you’ll also learn more about the history and the significance of each location.
Check out this superb Game of Thrones Tour here.
This is an alternative which is also very highly rated.
Visit Dubrovnik’s Beaches
Without needing to go too far you’ll find some excellent beaches in Dubrovnik. One of the best things to do, even in October, is to hit the beach.
If you’re lucky with the weather, Dubrovnik’s beautiful beaches are perfect for relaxing, having a picnic and a drink or just going for a stroll in the sunshine. Even if it’s too cold for a beach day, I highly recommend these spots because they are just beautiful in themselves.
Here are the best beaches in town to add to your Dubrovnik itinerary:
- Banje Beach – One of the best sandy beaches in town with loungers and services
- Sveti Jakov– A little further from town, another larger, sandy beach
- Šulić Beach– Very close to the West Harbour, this is a small beach with many little rocky outcrops to sit on. It’s gorgeous and one of my favourite swimming spots in Dubrovnik.
- Danče beach– A little further from Šulic beach, there’s little sand here, many just lots of rocks to find a spot to relax on.
- Divovici Beach– a hidden gem I found when exploring the coastline. Descend down here from the road and you’ll get a private rocky bay that’s the perfect swim spot. It’s quiet and stunning. Find it on Google Maps here.
Hike to Mt. Srd
Towering high above Dubrovnik is Mt Srd. This mountain makes for one of the best vantage points and views over the city of Dubrovnik and is an absolute must when visiting.
Hiking is the best way to reach the top, especially in October when you don’t have to worry about the scorching summer sun. The hike is an easy one, a gentle and steady up all the way to the top. You can start the hike from the beginning of the trail here.
To get to the trailhead you can either walk or take an Uber.
Try to time your hike for sunset. You’ll want to start hiking about 2.5-2 hours before the sunset time. This gives you plenty of time to get to the top and enjoy a beautiful sunset over Dubrovnik.
Alternatively, if you’re pushed for time or you don’t want to hike up you can also take the Mt Srd Cable Car from here.
Visit Lokrum Island
From Dubrovnik’s Old port, it’s a short boat ride to Lokrum Island, a superb rocky island paradise just off the coast.
On Lokrum Island you’ll find many things to do and you can easily spend the day exploring the island. Make sure not to miss the Botanical Garden with the splendid Olive Grove, the Benedictine Monastery as well as lots of hidden coves, forests and beaches.
A tour to Lokrum island isn’t necessary but if you’d like to do some kayaking, this Dubrovnik and Lokrum Sea Kayak Tour is a must.
See the Views from Fort Lovrijenac
Fort Lovrijenac is one of the most famous GoT filming locations. It’s a historic, 16th Century fortress built on top of a 30+ metre rock facing out onto the Adriatic Sea just outside the Walled City.
It’s a fabulous place to visit that’ll give you a beautiful view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area.
Today there’s not much there itself but it does host theatrical performances and events during the summer months.
Visit the Palaces
When it comes to immersing yourself in the rich history and architectural marvels of Dubrovnik, a visit to its palaces is an absolute must.
Start at the Rector’s Palace, an iconic Gothic-Renaissance palace that once housed the seat of power during the Republic of Ragusa. It has an ornate facade and inside you’ll find intricately decorated rooms, complete with portraits and artefacts that transport you back in time.
Another palace to visit is Sponza Palace, an elegant blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, which currently houses the Dubrovnik State Archives.
If you have time make sure to also pop into the stunning St. Saviour Church and Franciscan Monastery complex, where the peaceful cloisters and the oldest pharmacy in Europe await your exploration.
Have a Drink at Buza Bar
There are two Buza bars located on the rocks between the sea and the walls of Dubrovnik. It’s a perfect spot for grabbing drinks as well as a swim in the Old Town. It’s the place to go in the afternoon for some drinks, a dip and a few hours of relaxation.
In October the bars might be starting to close but it does depend on the weather conditions.
Visit the West Harbour
The West Harbour, another famous GoT filming location is a lovely spot to relax and watch the sunset. There are a couple of small beaches, rocky cliff faces and a stone pier jutting out into the water.
Come here for sunset, bring a drink and some snacks and just relax and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.
Take a Day Trip to Kotor, Montenegro
The best day trip from Dubrovnik is over to neighbouring Montenegro. This small, Adriatic nation is full of hidden gems, gorgeous coastlines and picturesque, historical towns waiting to be explored.
I’d highly encourage you to visit Montenegro on its own trip but if you only have a day or two you can rent a car or hop on a tour to Kotor. (I recommend a private tour for this trip so you have full control over how long you spend in each spot.)
Kotor is a beautiful little Medieval town that sits in the Bay of Kotor. It’s old town is full of narrow, labyrinth streets and heritage stone architecture. You can spend you day exploring the Old Town, relaxing on Kotor Beach and Walking the Kotor City Walls.
If you have time hiking to St. John’s Fortress is a must too.
If you can extend your trip, I’d also recommend visiting Perast, another fairytale town on the Bay of Kotor. I personally think that it’s even more beautiful than Kotor, especially at sunset.
Read more: 20+ Wonderful Things to Do in Kotor for an Idyllic Stay
Take a Day Trip to Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Another brilliant day trip from Dubrovnik is to Bosnia. It’s just a 2.5 hour drive from Dubrovnik to Mostar a gorgeous, Ottoman city famed for it’s iconic Old Bridge.
It’s the perfect contrast to Dubrovnik, a city where Eastern and Western influences collide and one with a rich cultural heritage. You can spend your day exploring the historic bazaar, walking over the Old Bridge, taking in the vantage points and visiting the most famous mosques in town.
Mostar is very small and it’s easy to see on a day trip. October is also a great time for a day trip from Dubrovnik as the border should be clear compared to summer when it’s common to wait a few hours just to get over the border.
Read the full guide here: A Rundown of the Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar
Take a Day Trip to Korcula Island
Another fabulous day trip is to the island of Korcula. There’s a direct ferry from Dubrovnik to Korcula that’ll get you to the stunning island in just 2 hours.
When there, you can spend your day exploring Korçula town, a wonderful, old, historic town on the island. You can also visit some vineyards- Korcula is famous for its wine- as well as dine at some of the island’s most extraordinary restaurants.
If you don’t want to plan the day trip yourself you can sign up for this tour which also includes a wine tasting at Pelješac wine cellars.
FAQs
What’s the Temperature like in Dubrovnik in October?
Generally the temperature in October is somewhere between 15-28°C (59-83°F).
If it’s a warm month, at the beginning of October you could see temperatures in their high 20s. At the end of October, it could be as cold as 15 degrees.
Expect evenings in Dubrovnik in October to be much cooler than in the summer.
What’s the weather like in late October?
In late October the weather can be quite cool. There’s often quite a difference between visiting at the beginning of the month versus the end of the month.
At the end of October you can expect lower temperatures, between 15-22°C (59-70°F), a few more cloudy days and a much higher chance of rain.
Is it still hot in Dubrovnik in October?
It can still be hot in Dubrovnik in October. However the weather in October varies a lot each year so keep this in mind. One year the weather can be unseasonably warm and the next, unseasonably cool. You just never know.
The general, pattern, however, is still warm, rather than hot weather even though in the sun it might feel it.
It’s best to check the weather forecast before your trip but when I went to Dubrovnik at the beginning of last October, it was still sunbathing weather.
Is Everything still Open in Dubrovnik in October?
It’s important to remember that Croatia is a very seasonal destination.
On my last visit to Croatia in the month of October, I found that some restaurants especially started closing for the season in mid-October. That’s not to say that they all close, just some of them do.
If dining out is important to you, make sure to schedule your trip for the beginning of October.
Generally attractions, museums and sights will be open in October.
Can you swim in October in Dubrovnik?
Yes, you can technically still swim in Dubrovnik in October but the sea will be on the chilly side compared to summer.
The average sea temperature is around 20°C (68°F). For some, swimming in the sea in October won’t be a big deal but if you’re someone who gets cold easily it might not be for you.
If you’re set on swimming, make sure to visit Dubrovnik in early October as there can be a big difference in the average sea water temperature in the early days of October compared to the end of the month.
Is Dubrovnik worth visiting in October?
Yes, definitely. Early autumn is a very good time to visit Dubrovnik.
There are much fewer crowds, the cruise ships have stopped running for the season, the weather is pleasant, the landscapes start turning golden and everything is still open. I’d highly recommend it.
What to pack for a trip to Dubrovnik in October?
For a trip to Dubrovnik in October you’ll want to pack a good selection of everything.
I’d take a handful of summer outfits and swimwear but also a couple of sweaters and a jacket for the cooler evenings. I’d also take closed shoes or sneakers as well as a pair of sandals.
You might also want to pack a rain jacket and umbrella just in case.
When to Avoid visiting Dubrovnik?
I’d avoid visiting Dubrovnik during the winter months as the city center shuts down. During November-March Croatia is cold, damp and very windy and not much stays open for the winter months.
I’d also personally avoid visiting Dubrovnik in July and August. Even in October it was really busy in terms of crowds so I can’t imagine just how busy the town gets in July and August.
The weather can also be extremely hot during the summer making exploring and outdoor activities difficult.
The best months to visit Dubrovnik are May and June as well as September and October.
Have I convinced you to visit Dubrovnik in October? Do you have any questions or comments? Leave them below, I’d love to hear from you.
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