Dubrovnik at night

Once the sun sets, Dubrovnik becomes full of a different, evening charm and energy. If you’re wondering what to do in Dubrovnik at night, rest assured you wont be disappointed. For those you are into partying, there are plenty of places they can experience the Dubrovnik nightlife.

Even if you prefer a peaceful evening, you will find something for yourself. The city at night offers breathtaking views, which many would argue are even more stunning than during the day. There are also various beautiful locations perfect for romantic strolls, venues featuring live music and relaxed terraces placed right under ancient stone walls.

What to do in Dubrovnik at night?

This depends on how you want to spend the night at this city. You can kick off your evening with some amazing sunset views from spots high above the city, then grab a relaxed dinner at one of its many cozy restaurants. For a bit more energy, there are cool cliffside bars with incredible views or you can check out the clubs inside old fortresses.

If you’re into culture, Dubrovnik often hosts open-air performances and various cultural events during the summer, with a more laid-back vibe. We’ll go through the most popular options for spending the night in Dubrovnik, so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Evening walks and sights in the Old Town

When the sun sets and the cruise ship crowds disperse, it’s an ideal time for a relaxed walk. Start at Pile Gate, the main western entrance to the Old Town, and make your way down the Stradun.

Many shops stay open until 10 PM in the high season, so you can browse souvenirs, jewelry, or local delicacies without the daytime rush. Pop into War Photo Limited, which sometimes keeps extended hours or simply enjoy passing by Onofrio’s Fountain and St. Blaise’s Church, without the crowds.

Don’t miss the walk around Porporela, the small breakwater near the Old Harbour. It’s a favorite local spot to sit on the rocks, enjoy the breeze or watch the reflection of city lights on the water. You’ll likely spot locals chatting, couples enjoying gelato and photographers trying to catch the perfect night shot.

If you prefer quieter corners, explore side alleys like Ulica od Rupa or climb a few steps up toward Buza Gate.

Sunset views and evening dining

One of the best ways to start your evening is with a view of the sun dipping behind Lokrum Island and the Elaphiti Islands in the distance. For a classic panoramic view, take the cable car to Mount Srđ before sunset. It runs until around 12 PM in peak season. At the top, you can grab a drink or dinner at Panorama Restaurant, though many just go for the view.

If you’re staying in town, walk up to Park Orsula (a 20–30-minute walk from Ploče Gate). It’s free, less crowded and equally scenic, especially if there’s a live music event happening.

When it’s time to eat, you can choose from a wide range of evening dining spots. Inside the Old Town there is a number of restaurants you can try, including:

• Azur (near the Jesuit Steps) offers Mediterranean-Asian fusion, set in a cozy alley with outdoor tables.
• Taj Mahal (Bosnian cuisine, despite the name) is a local go-to for grilled meats and comfort food, best to reserve in advance.
• Konoba Jezuite has a quiet terrace near the top of the baroque steps, which is perfect if you want to slowly enjoy your meal with a view of the bell towers.
• Gundulićeva Poljana Square has a few outdoor restaurants. It’s less polished but lively and good for people-watching.

Outside the Old Town, Lapad Bay has seaside promenades with restaurants like Pantarul and Kantenari Wine & Tapas Bar. Both are great for sunset dining with fewer tourists.

Best bars in Dubrovnik at night

Dubrovnik isn’t packed with big nightlife districts, but it makes up for it with unique, scenic bars.

Buža I and II

Hidden through a nondescript stone doorway in the city wall (look for the “cold drinks” sign near the Jesuit Steps), these bars are set directly on cliffs. There are just stone terraces, plastic chairs, and an unbeatable view of the open sea. Bring cash (they do not take cards), go before sunset and stay as long as the breeze and sound of waves keep you there.

D’Vino Wine Bar

Tucked into a narrow alley just off the Stradun, D’Vino is perfect for relaxing with Croatian wines. The staff is happy to recommend local options like Pošip, Grk or Plavac Mali. It’s small and cozy, so arrive early or expect a short wait.

Malvasija Wine Bar

Near Pile Gate, this spot is ideal for those curious about local production. Try Malvasija Dubrovačka, a white wine historically grown in the region, paired with cheese and olives on the side.

Cave Bar More

Located under Hotel More in Lapad, this bar is literally built into a natural cave. It’s a short taxi or bus ride from the Old Town and a favorite for those wanting to try something special.

Libertina

For something a bit more local, Libertina (formerly Soul Caffe) in a small alley off the main streets offers affordable drinks, live acoustic sets, and a welcoming atmosphere. This might be a good choice for solo travelers or couples looking for something relaxed but not sleepy.

Dubrovnik nightlife

Dubrovnik’s nightlife isn’t wild, but it’s lively in a laid-back, coastal way. Expect a mix of wine bars, beach lounges, cocktail spots and live music venues. The scene is mostly concentrated in and around the Old Town, with a few popular venues in Lapad and Babin Kuk. Bear in mind that the Dubrovnik nightlife starts late, especially in peak season. Most bars don’t fill up until after 10 PM, and clubs get going around midnight.

If you’re after a more upbeat vibe, head to Culture Club Revelin, set inside a 500-year-old fortress near Ploče Gate. It’s the city’s biggest club and regularly hosts international DJs and themed parties during summer. Doors open around midnight, but the best time to go is after 1 AM. Dress smart-casual and check the event calendar online before heading out.

For something more relaxed, Skybar Dubrovnik, just outside the Old Town walls, is a good choice for cocktails with music.

If you prefer live music, check out:

• Lazareti, near Ploče Gate, which hosts live bands, indie acts, and cultural events. It’s popular with locals and often features Croatian artists in a casual open-air setup.
• Troubadour Jazz Café, a long-standing Old Town bar known for its nightly live jazz in the summer months. Grab a table on the square outside, order a cocktail and enjoy the vibe.

Night activities beyond partying

Not into bars or clubs? Dubrovnik still has plenty to offer after dark, especially if you’re more interested in culture, history or exploration.

Open-air performances and cultural events

During summer, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July–August) brings classical music, theatre and dance performances to the city’s historic courtyards, squares and fortresses. Check their schedule at the tourist info points or online for the updated schedule. Performances often take place at Fort Lovrijenac, the Revelin Fortress or even inside Rector’s Palace.

Cinema under the stars

If you’re looking for something casual and local, check out Jadran Open-Air Cinema inside the Old Town (near Buža Gate). It screens international and Croatian films in a stunning setting under the stars. Most movies have English subtitles and tickets are usually available on-site.

Evening sea kayaking or paddleboarding

Several companies offer guided sunset or night kayaking tours, usually starting from Pile Bay. You paddle around Lokrum Island or under the city walls, with LED lights on your kayak if you go after dark. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to experience Dubrovnik from the sea and perfect for travelers who prefer active evenings.

Dubrovnik night tour

If you’re looking for a relaxed and scenic way to experience Dubrovnik after dark, consider joining our Dubrovnik night panoramic drive. This is a quiet, comfortable way to see the city’s most beautiful viewpoints, without the daytime crowds or summer heat.

The tour starts in the evening, usually around sunset, and takes you through Lapad Bay, past Gruž Harbor and up to the Srđ hill viewpoint. There you’ll get a spectacular night-time panorama of Dubrovnik’s Old Town lit up like a postcard. This is one of the best spots in the entire region for night photos, with Lokrum Island, the city walls, and the sea all visible under the stars.

You’ll also pass by Dubrovnik’s key night landmarks and scenic roads that most visitors don’t see, including lesser-known lookout points and the peaceful local neighborhoods above the city.

It’s a great option if you want to enjoy Dubrovnik’s evening atmosphere without walking or navigating the crowds. It’s a great option for couples, small groups or families who want to see the city in a different light, literally.

Enjoy Dubrovnik at night

So, is Dubrovnik at night worth it? Absolutely, even though it’s not all about wild partying. Dubrovnik offers something a bit more chill and charming. Drinks with amazing views from a cliffside bar, cozy candlelit dinners, soft music drifting through old stone streets. These are the kinds of moments that create memories you’ll keep forever.

No matter how you like to travel, this city has a way of slowing things down after sunset. It just makes every evening feel a little bit more magical.

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