Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Best Neighborhoods to Avoid Crowds

If you’re wondering where to stay in Dubrovnik and want to experience the city without the crowds, staying in a central location is key. Dubrovnik is packed with history, beautiful views, and amazing spots to explore. But it is also packed with tourists during the day, so picking the perfect location is essential to having easy access to iconic sites like the Old Town to beat the crowds. I’ve picked out the best neighborhoods that put you just steps away from the city’s top attractions, but are still quiet enough for a good night’s sleep. Plus, I’ve handpicked the most charming stays that combine great locations with comfort and character.

There aren’t many hotels in Croatia. Renovated apartments are your best picks for accommodations, but the number of rooms are limited. Accommodations book up pretty quickly and prices can go up fast, especially in the summer. I recommend reserving a refundable booking a couple months in advance to secure your top pick. Ready to book your perfect home base? Keep reading to discover the best places to stay in Dubrovnik!

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Best Neighborhoods

When deciding where to stay in Dubrovnik, the three best neighborhoods for sightseeing are:

• Inside the city walls
• The Pile district outside Pile gate
• The Ploce district outside the Ploce gate

The Ploce district is located just east of the Old Town, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Because of this, the views from Ploce are magnificent. Some accommodations even have balconies that give a truly stunning view of the Adriatic Sea, the Old Town, and the surrounding coastline. However, those stunning views come at a price – there are some steep climbs to get up there! We did not consider Ploce for this very reason. If you also don’t fancy walking up and down steep hills and steps multiple times every day, then consider accommodations inside the city walls or in Pile.

Accommodations in the city walls are usually more expensive and can get booked up quickly. The Pile area is a good compromise because it is easily accessible to the city center, but away from the hustle and bustle. During our visit to Dubrovnik, we stayed in Pile and loved the location. It is close enough to the Old Town to get there easily, but far enough to provide a peaceful escape at the end of the day. The walk back was hilly, but not super steep. If traveling with a larger group or family, you will be able to find larger accommodations in Pile than within the city walls.

Where to Stay in Pile

Agape Suite Old Town Luxury Two Bedroom Apartment

If traveling in a group, the Agape Suite Old Town Luxury Two Bedroom Apartment is a great choice located just steps from the Pile gate. Everyone will have some space to relax after spending all day together, and it’s beautifully renovated. It’s located a little further up the hill from the main entrance of the gate. While there is a climb to get back to the apartment, you’ll have more peace and quiet at night.

Apartments Regjo

For better views (but a bigger workout), stay further up the hill at Apartments Regjo. This more affordable one bedroom apartment has a balcony and rooftop with amazing views of the sea.

Dubrovnik Finest Apartments

To be closer to the water with amazing views of the fort, stay at Dubrovnik Finest Apartments. It is located just outside Pile gate, so there is easy access to the old town. But it is on a quieter side street so it is away from the noise. The exposed beams on the ceiling and the exposed brick in the decor are charming and remind you that you’re staying in an old town with history!

Those apartments already snatched up? Check out more highly rated apartments and suites in Pile.

Where to Stay Inside the City Walls

San Pietro Apartment

The San Pietro Apartment is located within the city walls in the northern part of the old town. It will be a climb to get up to this apartment, but you will be rewarded with amazing views. The apartment is in a beautiful stone house that has been recently renovated, but retains its rustic charm.

La Vita e Bella VI

To be a little closer to the center of the old town (read: less stairs), check out La Vita e Bella VI. These renovated suites are in the center of the old town but tucked away on a quiet side street. The decor is definitely modern, and there are some interesting design choices when it comes to the bathroom. (Make sure you are traveling with someone close because there is a standalone tub in the middle of the room and the shower is right next to the bed.) These suites are run by a management company. The management company La Vita e Bella has 5 other properties in the center of old town if this one isn’t just right.

Those apartments already booked? Check out more highly rated apartments and suites within the city walls in the old town!

Don’t forget to check out our complete One Week Croatia Itinerary for all the tips on what to do in Dubrovnik and more to make the most of your Croatian vacation!