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The medieval city of Dubrovnik has become a very trendy holiday destination for tourists from all over the world. Perched along the angelic Dalmatian Coast, the city is a fantastic place to visit all year round.
The medieval city of Dubrovnik has become a very trendy holiday destination for tourists from all over the world. Perched along the angelic Dalmatian Coast, the city is a fantastic place to visit all year round.
Yet, the weather at certain times of the year may better align with your interests than others. So, you may be left wondering, when is the best time to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia?
Whether you’re seeking a sun-soaked cityscape or mild temperatures with a refreshing breeze, there is certainly a month for you at this ancient paradise. We’ve gathered together all the key information you might need to help you decide when the best time to visit Dubrovnik is for you.
Those wanting to steer clear of Dubrovnik’s famously scorching temperatures can consider visiting during January, the coolest month. During this period, temperatures tend to hover around 11°C and 5 degrees °C.
These are perfect conditions for exploring all of the marvellous things the city has to offer beyond its sought-after shoreline. January is also the month that tends to see the highest level of rainfall. As a result, it is usually the slowest and quietest month in Croatia.
However, this allows you to catch the city at a unique time when it is free of the usual bustling tourists. You will be blessed with the opportunity to have the most jaw-droppingly beautiful and famous spots, such as the Old City Walls, all to yourself.
Temperatures are just a smidge hotter in February than in January, with figures averaging at 9.5°C. While the town remains a little sleepy during this time, more festivals also begin to crop up here and there, bringing a little buzz to the area.
The 3rd of February marks the day when Dubrovnik celebrates St Blaise, the town’s patron saint. Plenty of cultural and entertainment events pop up during the first week of the month, filling the city with excitement.
Don’t worry if you’re visiting towards the latter end of February as the much-anticipated Carnival comes to town. The precise date of the celebration varies from year to year depending on when Easter falls so be sure to do some research before arriving.
The sun starts to shine a little brighter by March, particularly towards the end of the month. Expect temperatures of around 11.5°C – so not scorching heat but a pleasant warmth.
It’s good news on the tourist facility front too as hotels, bars and restaurants begin to come alive again after the winter holidays. The tourism sector also begins to build up again around this time, bringing a peaceful, yet vibrant ambience to the medieval surroundings.
Visiting the annual Festival of Oysters is definitely one of the most exciting to do in Dubrovnik in March. This celebration takes place just outside of the town in the seaside village of Mali Ston. Renowned for its sensational shellfish, this place is in its element during the festival. March is when these salty aphrodisiacs are said to reach their juiciest.
Known as the shoulder season for tourism in Croatia, April is one of the best months to visit Dubrovnik as the temperatures creep up with highs of around 20°C and the flowers come into blossom.
Along with the Dubrovnik weather, hotels, restaurants and nightlife pick up more during this month so you can make the most of all the town has to offer – from fine dining restaurants to trendy nightclubs. On the bar front, d’Vino Wine Bar in the heart of the Old Town is a favourite amongst tourists and locals alike.
With grape juice available by the glass, bottle and tasting serving, you can opt for a low-key night, sample all of the fruits of the area or go all out and commit to a boozer.
Key Events
Keep an eye out for the Easter festivals that tend to fall around this month. Holy week, or Semana Santa, is the peak of the celebrations, with parades and special church services taking place across the seven, special days.
Often seen as the best time of year to visit Dubrovnik, May is when the heat begins to pick up and all of the attractions and tourist facilities are open and restored to their full glory. Averaging at a pleasant 19°C with highs of 23 and lows of 16, you will be able to take in all the sights of the town in a comfortable heat.
As the seawater tends to remain a little chilly for most people (unless of course, you’ve got your wetsuit!), this is prime time to make the most of the town’s land attractions. Wander around the enchanting medieval streets of the old town – one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.
While exploring, feel free to pop into the excellent cafes, restaurants and bars in the area – they are some of the best in town! You can also make the most of the pleasant temperatures by hiking up the hill by the town to catch the sunset. Alternatively, jump on the cable car and take in the ethereal blend of colours filling the sky from there.
In June, prepare to feel the heat as temperatures begin to rise in June with highs of 25°C and there is much less chance of rain. It’s arguably the best time to visit Dubrovnik, you will now be able to make the most of the town’s coastal location in much more comfort.
The average temperature sits at 21°C. So, if you’re not feeling quite ready to brave the waters for a swim, you can try your hand at kayaking or jet skiing. What makes June an especially magical time to visit Dubrovnik is the sheer amount of festivals that take the town by storm.
Key Events
The annual festival of Ana in The City takes place in June. A famed local cellist, Ana Rucner blesses the early morning in Mount Srd with the sweet sounds of her music. This takes place just above Dubrovnik and if you happen to be visiting the area, do try to make it as it is such an enchanting experience.
The Midsummer Scene Festival also takes place during this month. This is a fantastic theatre event during which the works of William Shakespeare are remastered. With so much going on, it is no wonder that June is one of the best times to visit Dubrovnik.
If you’re looking for the best time to visit Dubrovnik for sunny weather, July is the month for you. Come prepared for the weather to be hot and dry with averages of 30°C – more than warranting a good dollop of sun cream.
July is peak season so it is likely to be a fair bit busier than the other months of the year. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t have the most amazing time! Cool off and explore the town’s crystal clear coastline by swimming and snorkelling its gorgeous waters.
Key Events
Excitement fills the medieval town in July as the Dubrovnik Summer Festival begins. Prepare to see a wild array of concerts and plays in the most stunning areas of the town, including Fort Lovrijenac where you can enjoy outdoor entertainment in the most magical of surroundings.
With similar temperatures to July, August is also commonly seen as the best time to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia. As you would expect, all of the tourist facilities are open and buzzing with guests during this time, so you will have your pick of charming eateries and trendy bars.
As well as being prime time for sunning along the shoreline, August is also an ideal time to go island hopping in Dubrovnik. While there are so many stunning islands a stone’s throw away from the enchanting town, Lokrum is one of the most breathtaking.
A small island-come-nature-reserve, all you need to do to get over to this beautiful landmass is jump on a ferry at the port. Prepare to be surrounded by cypress, olive and pine trees with bunnies hopping around you in a tranquil oasis a world away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre.
For those wondering what is the best time to visit Dubrovnik to bag the weather without the crowds of July and August, September might be the time for you. Temperatures lie a little lower than in the peak months with temperatures around 24°C.
Peaceful with an energetic buzz, the tourist season certainly hasn’t come to an end at this stage but just calmed down a little. Thus, all of the tourist facilities remain open.
Being slightly quieter, it is a good idea to book onto Game Thrones Tour around the city as they are usually extremely busy and popular. You will be taken around the stunning architecture that formed many of the backdrops for scenes of the legendary HBO series.
Key Events
Attend The International Late Summer Music Festival to hear the dulcet tones of talented artists and musicians from around the world. First launched in 2013, the concerts are held in front of the Rector’s Palace or in its atrium in Dubrovnik, offering a wodnerfully varied program of music.
Want to know when to visit Dubrovnik for peace and tranquillity? Aim for October. Just outside of the summer buzz, many of the seaside facilities shut up shop for a rest and the town relaxes to recover from the hubbub of the summer months.
That is not to say that you’ll find yourself short of things to do or see, most of the restaurants, bars, clubs and cafes remain open and ready for business. You’ll be able to enjoy temperatures between 22°C and 15°C, so don’t be digging out your winter coat just yet!
You should make the most of being able to explore the magnificent 15th-century city walls in the comfort of gentle sunshine and a refreshing breeze. Then, make your way towards the breathtaking 14th-century architecture of Rector’s Palace where you are sure to be impressed by its Renaissance come Baroque-style architecture.
Not at all doom and gloom, November is a great time of year to visit Dubrovnik. Perfect for the bargain hunters, flight and hotel prices tend to be lower and you will be able to enjoy free guided tours around the town.
The tours are provided in English by a knowledgeable guide who will be able to share all the most fascinating nooks and crannies of the city. On the downside, a lot of the hotels tend to have closed for the winter by this time.
Yet, all that is needed is a bit of organisation and you are sure to avoid any of the potential issues of visiting during off-peak season. You will still be able to explore the enchanting city walls, and investigate all of the wonderful museums. The Red History Museum is a particularly interesting place to visit in Dubrovnik, as it will get you all up to speed on Croatian history.
If you are looking to visit Dubrovnik in December, you truly will be able to enjoy the medieval town all to yourself. Not even the cruise ships stop by the town during this period so it is extremely tranquil and peaceful, a far cry from the busy peak season.
Temperatures remain around 10°C with an early sunset of around 4.15 pm. You will be seeing the town in a completely different light than most other tourists, making December an incredibly special time to visit Dubrovnik. As the time nears Christmas you will be able to enjoy a fantastic festive market that dishes up some tasty traditional food.
Key Events
Dubrovnik Winter Festival lasts for the whole of December, during which you can enjoy fantastic local live music and craft sessions all the while the town is lit up with festive lights and colours.
Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the captivating medieval city of Dubrovnik is a truly magical place to visit. This unique destination offers something special during every month of the year.
For more information about planning a holiday to Dubrovnik, why not read our guides on the best places to visit and the best things to do in the city?
If you’re planning a visit to Dubrovnik and are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, Vida Villas has a fantastic selection of accommodation. Browse our range of holiday villas in Dubrovnik here, or get in touch and talk to our team about what you’re looking for.
