Are you planning a trip to Dubrovnik and wondering whether visiting the city with kids is a good idea?
Let us tell you: Dubrovnik is a must-see destination for families! Even though it is, understandably, popular and busy, there are many ways to enjoy the city if you decide to travel with your little ones.
From fortresses and the historic City Walls to beautiful beaches, day trips and more, you will find plenty of fun things to do in Dubrovnik with kids.
We decided to help you and provide some suggestions on how you can have a wonderful family-friendly holiday in our city! The following are the top 7 activities to do in Dubrovnik with kids.
#1 Explore Lokrum Island
Lokrum Island is a natural preserve with trails that go along the shore and through the island’s wooded interior. It’s the ideal day excursion from Dubrovnik for families with children. Some of the attractions you’ll see there are a small salt lake (the “Dead Sea”), botanical garden, a fort atop a hill, remnants of a 12th century monastery, and the Iron Throne. Yes, the real one from the Game of Thrones show! It was sold by Game of Thrones creators to the city of Dubrovnik and it is now located on Lokrum.
Your children will love searching for and admiring the island’s wild peacocks. You will find them almost everywhere on the island. Moreover, Lokrum is a wonderful place for a picnic or a swim – either in the ocean or in the “Dead Sea”.
#2 Visit Dubrovnik Sea Aquarium
If you’re visiting Dubrovnik with children, you should include Dubrovnik Aquarium in your agenda. This isn’t your average aquarium, though. It is located in the historic St. John’s fortification close to Dubrovnik’s harbor. It will undoubtedly captivate your children from the moment they enter, since there are several exhibits of flora and wildlife, as well as some underwater mysteries. Eels, starfish, scorpion fish, seahorses, and other sea creatures are among those found.
Furthermore, visiting this aquarium is a pleasant break from the heat and throng, especially if you have children with you. The admission fee is 60 kuna per adult, and tourists often spend 1-1.5 hours there.
#3 Take a Boat Tour or Ferry to Lopud Island
If you will be travelling to Dubrovnik with kids, another activity we recommend is the Elaphiti Island boat tour including Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. Your family will definitely enjoy Lopud island and its broad beaches. One of the most popular and especially great for the families is sandy Šunj Beach. The sea is so shallow which makes it perfect for younger kids.
There you can have lunch at the “Rajski Kutak Bindo” restaurant, which is located on a tiny hilltop concealed in the shadow of trees. You will meet the most courteous personnel in its peaceful ambience, and your senses will be lured by a range of foods. After you’ve finished your meal, take your drink to a hammock and relax for a while in this calm haven.
#4 Relax at the Beaches in Lapad Area
Lapad is easily accessible by bus and is only a 10-minute ride from the Old Town. Sunset beach is located in the heart of Lapad and because of it’s sheltered location in the bay, the shallow blue water is safe for children to paddle in, plus there are umbrellas and sun loungers for parents to relax on. It is surrounded by a plethora of restaurants, ice cream parlours and children friendly bars. Plus, there are many children’s play areas nearby too.
Furthermore, we recommend that you visit Mandrač beach, which is also conveniently accessible by foot and public transportation from everywhere in Dubrovnik. The beach is made of fine gravel and sand, as well as the seabed. The entrance to the sea is convenient to people of all ages. Deck chairs, parasols, public bathrooms, change cabins, and other entertainment amenities are nearby. There are several cafés and beach bars close for refreshments.
#5 Walk the City Walls
A walk around Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls is a one-of-a-kind experience that is a must-do when visiting the city! However, they are also hot and popular in summer, so if you are visiting the city at this time, you should be aware of a few things.
First, avoid the midday heat and go in the morning as soon as they open or 2 hours before they close. Second, enter the Walls at the Ul. Svetog Dominika entrance gate (near Restaurant 360), rather than the main entrance, Pile Gate, which is the busiest.
Plus, you’ll find it easier to climb all of the difficult stairwells straight away (as will your children!). Another thing we advise is to protect your family with lots of sunscreen and bring plenty of water with you. And don’t forget to treat your kids and yourself to some delicious gelato at the end!
If you want to do the Walls with a professional guide, we suggest you book this tour.
#6 Take the Cable Car
If your kids are still little and you find it difficult to hike up Mount Srđ with them, you will want to take the cable car. What’s more, it has floor-to-ceiling windows so your little ones can enjoy the breathtaking views without you having to pick them up. It will, undoubtedly, be an amazing experience for them, as much as for you, especially if this will be their first cable car ride.
The only downside is that it’s a short, only 4-minute ride, which may be expensive for some considering that an adult round-trip ticket costs 200 kuna. However, children up to 4 years of age can travel for free. If you decide to take the cable car, we suggest you go around sunset time so you can take stunning golden hour photos from the top! Besides breathtaking views from every angle, at the top you will find amazing restaurants, historic monuments and a war museum.
#7 Dubrovnik Riviera Panoramic City Tour
Alternatively, you can book a tailored private tour to get a full overview of Dubrovnik from the inside out, especially if you do not have more than one or two days to spend in Dubrovnik. On this tour, you will not only get to the top of Mount Srđ, but you’ll also visit a little charming town called Cavtat and explore the Old Town of Dubrovnik, all while being accompanied by a professional tour guide and driver.
This might be a better choice for a family with kids since you’ll be able to see a couple of amazing places and attractions while hearing interesting stories and facts. Kids will be entertained all the time since you’ll be going to different places – at the pace you choose. The best part is that you can completely customize your family day trip with Du the Tour. Where to go, what to see and do – it can all be planned around your preferences.
If you need any help with itinerary planning, get in touch with us at info@dubrovnikprivate.tours. We’ll be more than happy to lend a hand!
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