For many travelers, Dubrovnik is instantly recognizable as King’s Landing from HBO’s Game of Thrones and its prequel, House of the Dragon. Medieval walls, dramatic staircases, and Adriatic coastline transformed this Croatian city into one of television’s most iconic filming locations. But beyond the fantasy world, Dubrovnik is genuinely one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal cities.
For Filipinos, visiting Croatia has also become easier. Since Croatia joined the Schengen Area in 2023, Philippine passport holders can enter using a valid Schengen visa. Flights from Manila usually connect through Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Vienna, or Amsterdam via airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, or KLM.
Applying for a Schengen visa may seem intimidating, but preparation is key. Travelers should apply through the embassy or visa center of the country where they will spend the most time. Requirements typically include a valid passport, round-trip flights, hotel bookings, travel insurance, proof of funds, employment documents, and a detailed itinerary. Applications are commonly processed through VFS Global.
I visited Dubrovnik expecting a ‘Game of Thrones destination,’ but I left realizing it is much more than that. It is a city of seafood dinners by the sea, island-hopping adventures, and sunsets that make you want to stay longer than planned.
Here are five practical tips to help you enjoy Dubrovnik smarter.
1. The Old Town Has A LOT of Steps – Travel Light or Hire a Luggage Carrier
One thing many first-time visitors do not realize is that Dubrovnik’s Old Town was built long before wheeled luggage existed. The polished limestone streets and endless staircases can quickly become exhausting, especially if your accommodation is inside the Old Town walls.
Travel light if possible, or ask your hotel about luggage assistance. Some guesthouses and local porters offer luggage-carrying services for a fee, and honestly, it can save you from arriving completely drained before your vacation even begins.
Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable here.
2. Get the Dubrovnik Pass
Dubrovnik is expensive during peak season, so the Dubrovnik Pass is absolutely worth it. As of 2026, the pass costs pound 40 for one day, pound 50 for three days, and pound 60 for seven days. It includes access to the famous City Walls, several museums and galleries, plus public transportation around the city.
The best part? The City Walls ticket alone already costs almost the same as the one-day pass, making it one of the smartest purchases for first-time visitors.
One important thing to remember: you can only enter the City Walls once using the pass, so plan your visit properly. Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid both the heat and the cruise ship crowds.
The walls stretch nearly two kilometers around the Old Town and offer incredible panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Dubrovnik’s orange rooftops. You will also recognize several Game of Thrones filming locations along the way.
3. You Cannot Leave Dubrovnik Without Eating Seafood
Croatian coastal cuisine deserves far more attention.
Because of Dubrovnik’s Adriatic location, seafood here is incredibly fresh. Expect oysters, grilled octopus, black risotto, mussels, and sea bass almost everywhere.
One of the city’s most famous restaurants is Lady Pi-Pi, known for grilled seafood, generous portions, and stunning rooftop views overlooking the Old Town. Expect queues during summer, but it is worth the wait.
If you want a more upscale experience, Nautika is known for elegant seafood dining beside the fortress walls. Meanwhile, Proto remains one of Dubrovnik’s classic seafood institutions.
Honestly, one of the best experiences in Dubrovnik is simply sitting down for a long seafood dinner with Croatian wine while watching the city slow down at sunset.
4. Skip the Cable Car and Walk Up Ulica Matije Gupca
The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers beautiful views, but round-trip tickets now cost around pound 30 per adult.
If you are traveling on a budget, there is a free alternative many tourists overlook.
Walk uphill through Ulica Matije Gupca toward the residential areas above the Old Town. The climb is steep, but once you reach the higher viewpoints, you will get postcard-worthy panoramic views completely free.
Personally, I think this route feels more authentic because you also get to experience the quieter side of Dubrovnik away from the crowds.
Go before sunset for the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
5. Don’t Overbook Boat Tours
Boat tours are one of the best experiences in Dubrovnik, especially if you want to visit Lokrum Island, the Blue Cave, or the Elafiti Islands.
But here is a tip many travelers do not know: you do not always need to pre-book online weeks ahead.
If you walk around the Old Port area in the morning or early afternoon, many operators still have available spots and sometimes offer discounted last-minute rates, especially for sunset cruises or shared tours.
Dubrovnik may have become globally famous because of Game of Thrones, but the city’s real magic comes from its atmosphere beyond the screen.
It is in the church bells echoing through the alleys, the seafood dinners by the harbor, the endless staircases, and the Adriatic sparkling below the city walls.
And once you experience Dubrovnik in person, you realize this place never needed Hollywood to become unforgettable.