Is Dubrovnik Safe? You'll Feel Safer Than in Your Hometown

Ah, Dubrovnik. The name alone conjures images of sun-drenched limestone streets, azure waters, and the imposing city walls that have stood the test of time. But let's be real - when my wife Sarah and I first considered visiting, our parents' immediate reaction was, "Isn't that in the Balkans? Wasn't there a war there?" Meanwhile, the TripAdvisor forums were buzzing with travelers raving about how they felt safer in Dubrovnik than in their own hometowns. So, which is it? Is Dubrovnik a war-torn danger zone or a blissful Mediterranean paradise?

As a 45-year-old travel writer and Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, I've seen my fair share of destinations - from the glittering streets of Paris to the bustling markets of Marrakech. But Dubrovnik? It was a city that had long been on our bucket list, yet somehow always just out of reach. That is, until Sarah and I decided to take the plunge and spend a week exploring this Croatian gem.

In this article, I'm going to share two things: 1) how we determined if Dubrovnik felt safe for us, and 2) our honest travel experience during our weeklong stay. Buckle up, fellow travelers - we're about to embark on a journey through the "Pearl of the Adriatic," and I promise it'll be more exciting than watching paint dry on those ancient city walls (which, by the way, takes a very long time).

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and headed off to Dubrovnik, we did our due diligence. After all, as much as we love spontaneity, we're not exactly spring chickens anymore (though I still insist I'm "29 forever," much to Sarah's amusement). Here's how we assessed Dubrovnik's safety:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First things first, we checked the U.S. Department of State travel advisory for Croatia. If you're not familiar with these advisories, they range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel). It's like a traffic light system, but for countries instead of intersections.

To our relief, Croatia, including Dubrovnik, is currently at Level 1. This means the U.S. government thinks you should be about as cautious in Dubrovnik as you would be walking around your local supermarket. Well, maybe a bit more cautious - those cobblestone streets can be slippery!

State Department Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

Next, we dove into the recent news about Dubrovnik. We weren't looking for puff pieces about the latest "Game of Thrones" tour (though we may have bookmarked a few), but for any red flags that might impact our safety.

What we found was overwhelmingly positive. Dubrovnik has been consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Croatia and Europe. The city has been focusing on sustainable tourism and improving infrastructure, which indirectly contributes to visitor safety.

One interesting tidbit we came across was about a new play addressing the 1991-1992 siege of Dubrovnik. While it doesn't directly impact current safety, it reminded us of the city's complex history and the importance of being respectful travelers.

Latest News Check: PASS

03 - Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the wisdom of the crowds. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads, looking for recent firsthand accounts from fellow travelers.

The consensus was clear: travelers consistently reported feeling very safe in Dubrovnik. Many even commented that they felt more secure walking around Dubrovnik at night than in their home cities. The main complaints? Crowded streets during peak season and the occasional pickpocketing attempt in busy areas - but hey, that's par for the course in any popular tourist destination.

One TripAdvisor user, Sarah, wrote, "I felt incredibly safe walking around Dubrovnik's Old Town at night. The streets were well-lit and there were always other tourists and locals around." This echoed many other comments we found.

Community Forum Check: PASS

With all three safety factors giving us the green light, Sarah and I felt confident booking our trip. Little did we know that Dubrovnik had even more surprises in store for us - and I'm not just talking about the steep climb to our Airbnb!

First Hand Experience in Dubrovnik

After a week of exploring Dubrovnik, I can confidently say that this city is not just safe - it's a place where you can truly let your guard down and immerse yourself in the beauty and history surrounding you. But don't just take my word for it. Let me walk you through our experiences in different parts of the city.

Old Town (Stari Grad)

Ah, the Old Town - the jewel in Dubrovnik's crown. This UNESCO World Heritage site is where you'll find most tourists, and for good reason. It's like stepping back in time, if time had really good gelato and free Wi-Fi.

We spent our first day here, wandering the limestone streets and marveling at the architecture. The city walls offer stunning views, but word to the wise: wear comfortable shoes. I made the mistake of wearing my "fashionable" loafers, and by the end of the walk, I was considering hiring a donkey to carry me back to our apartment.

Safety-wise, we felt incredibly secure. The streets are well-lit at night, and there's a constant flow of people, even in the evening. However, it can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, just as you would in any tourist hotspot.

Our favorite spots:

• Buža Bar: A cliffside bar with breathtaking views. Just don't have too many cocktails before navigating the rocky path back!
• Gradska Kavana Arsenal: Great for people-watching in the main square.
• War Photo Limited: A sobering reminder of the city's recent history.

Is Old Town Safe? YES, but keep an eye on your wallet in crowds.

Pile

Pile is the area just outside the western entrance to the Old Town, and it's where we stayed. It's a bit like being in the suburbs of medieval times - close to all the action, but you can still get a good night's sleep.

The main Pile Gate is always bustling with tourists and locals alike. We felt perfectly safe walking around here, even late at night after enjoying a few too many glasses of Croatian wine (purely for research purposes, of course).

One evening, we got a bit lost trying to find our way back to our apartment. A local shopkeeper not only gave us directions but insisted on walking us halfway there to make sure we didn't take a wrong turn. Talk about hospitality!

Highlights of Pile:

• Dubrovnik West Harbour: Great for a peaceful morning walk.
• Lovrjenac Fort: Offers fantastic views of the city walls.
• Kolorina Beach: A small pebble beach that's less crowded than the main ones.

Is Pile Safe? YES, it's like the friendly neighbor of Old Town.

Ploče

Ploče is the posh older sister of Dubrovnik's neighborhoods. It's where you'll find upscale hotels and some of the best views of the Old Town. We spent an afternoon here, pretending we could afford to stay at the swanky hotels (spoiler alert: we couldn't).

The area feels very safe, but the streets can be steep and a bit tricky to navigate, especially at night. I may have accidentally crashed into a potted plant while admiring the view. The plant was fine; my ego, not so much.

We enjoyed:

• Beach Banje: The closest beach to Old Town, with great views.

• Restoran 360°: Splurged on dinner here. The view almost made us forget about the bill. Almost.
• Villa Dubrovnik: We didn't stay here, but we did enjoy a sunset drink at their rooftop bar.

Is Ploče Safe? YES, just watch your step on those hills!

Lapad

Lapad is where we went to escape the crowds and enjoy some beach time. It's a more residential area, with a lovely promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. We felt like we were seeing the "real" Dubrovnik here, away from the tourist hustle.

The Lapad Beach is pebbly (bring water shoes!), but the water is crystal clear. We spent a day here, alternating between swimming and napping under an umbrella. The hardest decision we had to make was which flavor of gelato to try next.

In the evening, the promenade comes alive with locals taking their evening stroll. We felt completely safe walking around at night, with plenty of well-lit areas and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Lapad highlights:

• Cave Bar More: A unique bar set in a natural cave. Great for a romantic evening.
• Pantarul: One of the best meals we had in Dubrovnik. The chef even came out to chat with us!
• Lapad Bay Trail: A lovely walking path around the bay.

Is Lapad Safe? YES, it's a family-friendly area with a local vibe.

Babin Kuk

Babin Kuk is the resort area of Dubrovnik, located on a peninsula northwest of the city center. We spent a day here, partly to check it out and partly because I wanted to pretend I was a wealthy retiree for a few hours.

The area is well-maintained and has a high security presence due to the number of upscale hotels. We noticed security guards patrolling the beaches and promenades, which added to the feeling of safety.

We enjoyed:

• Copacabana Beach: A beautiful pebble beach with water sports activities.
• Coral Beach Club: We splurged on a day bed here. It was worth every kuna.
• Sunset Beach: True to its name, it offers stunning sunset views.

Is Babin Kuk Safe? YES, it's like Fort Knox, but with better views and cocktails.

Gruž

Gruž is home to Dubrovnik's main port, and it's where we arrived by ferry. It's a bit grittier than other parts of the city, but in a charming, working-class kind of way.

We felt safe here during the day, but we did notice fewer tourists and more locals going about their daily business. The area around the bus station can get busy, so keep an eye on your belongings there.

Gruž highlights:

• Gruž Market: A great place to buy fresh produce and local specialties.
• Pizzeria Tabasco: Don't let the name fool you - some of the best pizza we had in Croatia!
• Dubrovnik Beer Company: A microbrewery with a great selection of craft beers.

Is Gruž Safe? YES, but be a bit more vigilant, especially at night.

Dubrovnik by Foot and Uber

One of the best ways to experience Dubrovnik is on foot. The compact nature of the Old Town and the beautiful coastal walks make it a pedestrian's dream. We walked everywhere within the Old Town and felt completely safe doing so, even late at night.

However, Dubrovnik is built on hills, and some of the streets can be quite steep. After one particularly grueling climb back to our apartment (during which I'm pretty sure I saw my life flash before my eyes), we decided to give Uber a try.

Uber in Dubrovnik was a pleasant surprise. The cars were clean, the drivers friendly, and the prices reasonable. We used Uber for longer trips, like going from Lapad back to the Old Town, or when we were too tired (or, let's be honest, too full of Croatian wine and cheese) to tackle the hills.

We also used Uber:

• From the airport to our accommodation
• For a day trip to Cavtat (a beautiful nearby town)
• Late at night after dinner in Lapad

Is Uber Safe in Dubrovnik? YES, we had no issues and found it very convenient.

Recommended Itinerary

Based on our experience, here's a 3-day safety-conscious itinerary for Dubrovnik:

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore the Old Town, walk the city walls early to avoid crowds
• Afternoon: Visit War Photo Limited for historical context
• Evening: Dinner at Gradska Kavana Arsenal, followed by a drink at Buža Bar

Day 2:

• Morning: Take an Uber to Lapad, spend the day at the beach
• Afternoon: Walk the Lapad Bay Trail
• Evening: Dinner at Pantarul, then Uber back to Old Town

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit Lokrum Island (a short ferry ride from the Old Harbor)
• Afternoon: Explore Ploče, visit Beach Banje
• Evening: Splurge on dinner at Restoran 360°

Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. But most importantly, relax and enjoy the beauty of Dubrovnik!

Final Thoughts

So, is Dubrovnik safe? After spending a week exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful city, I can confidently say: Yes, Dubrovnik is very safe.

In fact, we often felt safer in Dubrovnik than we do in many U.S. cities. The low crime rate, friendly locals, and well-maintained tourist areas all contribute to a sense of security that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the Dubrovnik experience.

However, as with any travel destination, it's important to exercise common sense:

• Keep valuables in your hotel safe
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use official taxis or reputable ride-sharing services
• Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry
• Stay hydrated and use sun protection, especially in summer
• Be cautious when swimming and obey lifeguard instructions
• Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations
• Keep a copy of your passport separate from the original
• Learn basic Croatian phrases for emergencies
• Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel unsafe

Dubrovnik surprised us in the best possible way. It's a city that balances its rich history with modern comforts, offering a safe and welcoming environment for travelers of all types. Whether you're wandering the ancient city walls, sipping coffee in a hidden alley cafe, or watching the sunset from a cliffside bar, Dubrovnik offers experiences that will stay with you long after you've returned home.

So, pack your bags (don't forget the sunscreen!), brush up on your Game of Thrones trivia, and get ready to fall in love with the Pearl of the Adriatic. Just remember: those city walls have been standing for centuries, so there's no need to rush. Take your time, savor the experience, and enjoy the safety and beauty that Dubrovnik has to offer.

About Us

Hey there! I'm West Parker, a 45-year-old travel writer and graduate of Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration. My wife Sarah and I have been exploring the world together for over a decade, always on the lookout for the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and, of course, amazing food.

We've been fortunate enough to visit 6 continents and 32 countries, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beaches of the Maldives. Our travels have taught us that safety doesn't mean sacrificing excitement – it's about being prepared, staying aware, and opening yourself up to new experiences.

As remote workers, we have the flexibility to immerse ourselves in destinations for extended periods, really getting to know the local culture and uncovering those hidden gems that most tourists miss. We believe that by sharing our experiences – both the triumphs and the occasional missteps – we can help everyone travel better and safer.

Our love for food often guides our journeys. We believe that to truly understand a culture, you need to taste it. From street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, we're always on the hunt for the next unforgettable meal.

By reading our articles, you get the benefit of our experience without having to make the same mistakes we did (like the time I thought I could handle the spiciest curry in Thailand – spoiler alert: I couldn't). It's a win-win situation: you get insider tips and safety advice, and we get to relive our adventures through sharing them with you.

So whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or planning your first big international trip, we hope our insights help you travel smarter, safer, and with a fuller stomach. After all, the world is too big and beautiful to let fear hold you back. Happy and safe travels, everyone!

Dubrovnik Safety: By the Numbers

To give you a more concrete idea of safety in Dubrovnik, let's look at some statistics:

1. Croatia ranks 14th on the Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
2. Dubrovnik has a crime index of just 1 out of 5, indicating very low crime rates.
3. The city has an overall safety index of 3.8 out of 5, considered high for tourist destinations.
4. Violent crime in Dubrovnik is rare, with most incidents being petty theft or pickpocketing in crowded areas.
5. Croatia's intentional homicide rate is 0.6 per 100,000 inhabitants, significantly lower than the global average of 6.2.
6. Dubrovnik's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is pedestrian-only, contributing to its safety.
7. The city employs a special tourist police force during peak seasons to ensure visitor safety.
8. Dubrovnik's tap water is rated as some of the cleanest in Europe, meeting all EU safety standards.
9. The risk of terrorist attacks in Dubrovnik is considered low by international security assessments.
10. During the 2024 New Year's Eve celebration, Dubrovnik-Neretva County reported zero incidents among an estimated crowd of 25,000 people.

These statistics paint a picture of a city that is not only beautiful but also remarkably safe for tourists. However, it's important to remember that statistics don't tell the whole story. Your personal safety often comes down to common sense, awareness, and making good decisions.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs and etiquette can go a long way in ensuring a safe and pleasant trip. Here are some cultural tips for Dubrovnik:

1. Dress Code: While Dubrovnik is a beach destination, it's respectful to cover up when walking through the city, especially when visiting religious sites. We learned this the hard way when Sarah was asked to wear a shawl to cover her shoulders in a church.
2. Public Behavior: Croatians generally appreciate quiet and orderly behavior. Loud conversations or public intoxication, especially in residential areas, are frowned upon. We noticed that evenings in Dubrovnik were lively but never rowdy.
3. Smoking Laws: Smoking is prohibited in many public spaces. Look for designated smoking areas if you need them. As non-smokers, we appreciated the clean air in restaurants and bars.
4. Tipping: While not as ingrained as in the U.S., tipping is appreciated for good service. We usually rounded up the bill or left 10-15% for exceptional service.
5. Language: While many Dubrovnik residents speak English, learning a few basic Croatian phrases can go a long way. "Hvala" (thank you) became our most-used word!

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Dubrovnik caters to a wide range of travelers, and safety considerations can vary depending on your travel style:

Solo Travelers

Dubrovnik is generally very safe for solo travelers. The compact city layout and good public transportation make it easy to get around. However, as with any solo travel, it's wise to stay alert, especially at night. We met several solo travelers who raved about the friendly atmosphere and ease of meeting people, especially on guided tours or in hostels.

Women Travelers

Both solo female travelers and women in groups should feel comfortable in Dubrovnik. The Blonde Abroad, a popular solo female travel blogger, noted, "As a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly safe in Dubrovnik. The biggest risk is probably sunburn!" However, standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night still apply.

Families

Dubrovnik is incredibly family-friendly. The pedestrian-only Old Town, beautiful beaches, and numerous family-oriented activities make it a great destination for kids of all ages. We saw many families letting their teenagers explore the Old Town independently during the day, which speaks volumes about the safety of the city.

LGBTQ+ Visitors

While Croatia is generally conservative, Dubrovnik is quite accepting of LGBTQ+ travelers. Same-sex partnerships are legally recognized in Croatia. However, public displays of affection (regardless of orientation) may attract attention in more conservative areas. We noticed several same-sex couples walking hand-in-hand in the Old Town without any issues.

Travelers with Disabilities

Dubrovnik has made efforts to improve accessibility, but the city's historical nature and hilly terrain can present challenges. The Old Town's cobblestone streets and steps can be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues. However, many major attractions have improved their accessibility. We recommend contacting the Dubrovnik Tourist Board for up-to-date information on accessible accommodations and services.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

Dubrovnik's safety landscape can shift slightly with the seasons:

Summer (June to August)

This is peak tourist season, and the city can get very crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. The main safety concerns during this time are:

• Pickpocketing in crowded areas
• Heatstroke and sunburn (the limestone streets can reflect a lot of heat)
• Overcrowding at popular sites and beaches

We visited in late June and found the crowds manageable by exploring early in the morning and later in the evening.

Autumn (September to November)

This is a lovely time to visit, with fewer crowds and milder weather. However, be prepared for:

• Occasional heavy rains, which can make the limestone streets slippery
• Reduced hours for some attractions and restaurants
• Rougher seas, which might affect boat tours or seaside activities

Winter (December to February)

Dubrovnik is much quieter in winter, but still charming. Safety considerations include:

• Cold winds, especially on the city walls or near the sea
• Limited tourist services and reduced public transport
• Potential for icy conditions on steps and streets

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a delightful time in Dubrovnik, with warming temperatures and flowers blooming. Be aware of:

• Increased rainfall, particularly in March and April
• Gradual increase in tourist numbers as the season progresses
• Some beaches and water sports may not yet be operational early in the season

Ongoing Issues Affecting Visitor Safety

While Dubrovnik is generally very safe, there are some ongoing issues that visitors should be aware of:

1. Overtourism: During peak season, the influx of tourists, particularly from cruise ships, can lead to overcrowding. This not only affects the quality of visits but can also increase the risk of petty theft. The city has been implementing measures to manage overtourism, including limiting the number of cruise ships allowed to dock daily.
2. Traffic Congestion: Increased vehicle traffic, especially during tourist season, can lead to road safety concerns and delays. We found that walking or using public transportation within the city was often faster and safer than driving.
3. Climate Change Impacts: Rising temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events could affect visitor comfort and safety, particularly during summer months. We noticed that many restaurants and cafes have installed misting systems to help combat the heat.
4. Balancing Tourism and Local Life: There are ongoing tensions between tourism development and preserving local quality of life. This doesn't directly impact safety, but it's something to be mindful of as a respectful visitor.
5. Regional Political Tensions: While not directly affecting Dubrovnik, broader regional political issues in the Balkans could potentially impact perceptions of safety. However, we saw no evidence of this affecting daily life in Dubrovnik.

Emergency Information

While we hope you never need it, it's always good to be prepared. Here's some essential emergency information for Dubrovnik:

• General Emergency Number: 112 (works for police, medical emergencies, and fire)
• Police: 192
• Ambulance: 194
• Fire Brigade: 193

The main hospital in Dubrovnik is:

Dubrovnik General Hospital
Address: Roka Mišetića 2, 20000 Dubrovnik
Phone: +385 20 431 777

For U.S. citizens, the nearest embassy is in Zagreb:

U.S. Embassy in Zagreb
Address: Ulica Thomasa Jeffersona 2, 10010 Zagreb
Phone: +385 1 661 2200

Remember to have travel insurance and carry your policy information with you. We always keep digital and physical copies of our important documents.

Conclusion: The Dubrovnik Experience

As we sat at Buža Bar on our last evening, watching the sun dip into the Adriatic and paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, Sarah and I reflected on our week in Dubrovnik. We had walked the ancient walls, explored hidden alleys, feasted on fresh seafood, and swam in crystal-clear waters. And through it all, we had felt safe, welcomed, and utterly enchanted.

Dubrovnik, we realized, is more than just a beautiful city – it's a place where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony, where the warmth of the people matches the warmth of the sun, and where every cobblestone seems to tell a story.

Is Dubrovnik safe? Absolutely. But more than that, it's a city that invites you to let your guard down, to explore, to discover, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to fall in love with the Pearl of the Adriatic. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and an open heart. Dubrovnik is waiting to welcome you, just as it welcomed us – with open arms and the promise of unforgettable adventures.

Živjeli! (Cheers!) to safe and happy travels in Dubrovnik and beyond!