48 Hours in Dubrovnik: A Chic Getaway in the Jewel of the Adriatic

With its ancient stone walls, shimmering sea views, and a cityscape straight out of a postcard, Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most captivating coastal escape. Direct flights from both Dublin and Cork make it a perfect sun-drenched getaway that feels worlds away but is only a few hours from home.

Where to Stay For full immersion in Dubrovnik’s history and charm, stay inside the Old Town at elegant boutique hotels like The Pucic Palace or St. Joseph’s. If you’d prefer a quieter, more spacious base, opt for a hotel just outside the city walls such as Hotel Lero or the cliffside Villa Orabelle, where sea views and sleek interiors await.

Day 1: Walls, Waves and Wine, Begin your Dubrovnik adventure by walking the iconic city walls. This two-kilometre loop offers stunning views over the red-tiled rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby Lokrum Island. Afterward, venture to Fort Lovrijenac, a striking 11th-century fortress perched above the cliffs, perfect for panoramic photos and a break from the crowds.

Cool off with a swim at Šulić Beach, a tucked-away cove just a short walk from Pile Gate, or head to Banje Beach, where you can rent a lounger and order cocktails just steps from the surf.

For lunch, grab a table at Pizzeria Oliva, known for its airy courtyard and fresh, wood-fired pizzas. In the afternoon, seek out Buža Bar, this cliffside watering hole is hidden through a small hole in the city wall and delivers unbeatable sea views with every sip.

End your day at Gradac Park, a peaceful lookout over Old Town that’s often missed by tourists. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset in serene surroundings. For dinner, choose Azur for Mediterranean-Asian fusion tucked into a quiet Old Town alley, or Proto for a classic seafood experience.

Day 2: Islands and Instagram Moments Start your morning with a relaxed stroll through Old Town’s highlights, including the Franciscan Monastery and Rector’s Palace. Then hop on a short ferry to Lokrum Island, where you’ll find rocky swimming spots, botanical gardens, and even the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones.

After returning to the city, have lunch at Barba, a trendy street food eatery serving octopus burgers and gourmet sardine sandwiches. Spend your final afternoon sampling Croatian wine at D’Vino Wine Bar, a cozy spot perfect for winding down.

For an unforgettable finale, take the Dubrovnik Cable Car or hike up Mount Srđ to take in the sweeping sunset view over the city and coastline.

Istagram-Worthy Highlights Buža Bar’s cliffside setting, the rooftops from the city walls, Lokrum Island’s wild peacocks, the throne room replica, and the golden hour from Gradac Park all make for standout snaps.

Options to Extend Your Trip If you’ve got more time, consider a boat tour to the nearby Elafiti Islands, a day trip to the charming seaside town of Cavtat, or a wine tasting adventure along the Pelješac Peninsula.

With direct flights from Dublin and Cork, booking a package through Loveholidays makes this Croatian escape both seamless and surprisingly affordable. and a perfect blend of history, glamour and sea air, Dubrovnik makes an effortlessly chic 48-hour escape.