12 Things to Do in Dubrovnik With Kids

You’ll find endless family adventures in Dubrovnik, from walking the UNESCO-protected city walls where kids can pretend they’re defending ancient fortresses, to taking short ferry rides to Lokrum Island’s nature reserve. Your children will love the hands-on Dubrovnik Aquarium beneath St. John’s Fortress, peaceful picnics in Gradac Park’s shaded pine forests, and watching hundreds of pigeons descend during the daily noon feeding at Gundulic Square. Discover how these experiences create unforgettable memories for every family member.

Walk the Ancient City Walls for Spectacular Views

What better way to introduce your kids to Dubrovnik’s medieval magic than by walking the ancient city walls that’ve protected this stunning coastal town for centuries? These UNESCO World Heritage limestone fortifications stretch 2km around Old Town, featuring 16 towers, three fortresses, and plenty of spots for children to play pretend soldiers at cannon placements.

The circuit takes 1.5-2 hours with stops. Enter at Ul. Svetog Dominika to tackle the hardest stairs first while energy’s high. Four-year-olds typically complete the full walk, though two-year-olds may need carrying for the final 30 minutes.

Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. The walls aren’t stroller-friendly, so bring a carrier for little ones. Guardposts provide shade and cafes offer refreshment breaks along the route. The route features some narrow sections that add to the adventure, making kids feel like true medieval explorers navigating the ancient passageways.

Take a Ferry to Lokrum Island’s Natural Paradise

Just a short 10-15 minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port will transport your family to Lokrum Island, a protected nature reserve that feels like stepping into an enchanted forest playground.

Ferries operate daily from April through October, departing every 15-30 minutes during high season (June-September). The first ferry leaves around 9:00 a.m., with the last return departing between 7:00-8:00 p.m. depending on season.

Book tickets online to save time—round trips cost approximately 5 euros. The scenic boat journey appeals to children and minimizes travel fatigue. Route 812 offers foot passengers only service, ensuring a peaceful crossing without vehicle traffic.

Always confirm the last ferry departure time during your visit, as overnight stays aren’t permitted on Lokrum. Frequent schedules allow flexible timing for families exploring this natural paradise.

Enjoy Family Time at Dubrovnik’s Beautiful Beaches

When you’re ready to trade cobblestone streets for sandy shores, Dubrovnik’s stunning beaches offer perfect family retreats where kids can splash in crystal-clear waters while parents soak up Mediterranean sun.

Banje Beach provides easy access from Old Town via Ploče Gate stairs, featuring shallow swimming areas and stunning city wall views.

Sveti Jakov Beach combines sand and pebbles with wave-jumping fun and a convenient beach bar for refreshments.

For calmer experiences, Copacabana Beach‘s peaceful atmosphere suits young children perfectly, while Lapad Beach offers excellent facilities including playgrounds and trampolines.

Don’t miss Sunj Beach on Lopud Island—accessible by ferry, its sandy shore and extremely shallow turquoise waters create ideal conditions for sandcastle building and safe swimming.

Most beaches offer sunbed rentals and family amenities for comfortable all-day stays. Pack water shoes for pebbled areas to ensure little feet stay protected on rocky surfaces.

Ride the Cable Car to Mount Srđ

One of Dubrovnik’s most thrilling family adventures awaits just steps from the Old Town’s eastern entrance, where bright orange cable car cabins whisk you 367 meters up Mount Srđ in an exhilarating 3.5-minute journey. Your kids will love the smooth ride and spectacular views unfolding below.

The cable car accommodates strollers and is fully accessible for disabled passengers.

At the summit, you’ll discover breathtaking panoramic views stretching 60 kilometers on clear days, encompassing the Old Town, Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. Kids can enjoy complimentary free Wi-Fi during the ride to share their adventure in real-time.

Plan your visit during operating hours (March through December), though service suspends during high winds or lightning for safety.

Purchase tickets at the station or online—children under 4 ride free, making this an affordable family experience.

Explore Hidden Caves on a Sea Kayaking Adventure

After taking in Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline from above, you’ll want to experience these same crystal-clear waters up close through an unforgettable sea kayaking adventure. These family-friendly tours depart from Pile Gate and require no prior paddling experience—experienced guides teach kayak handling within minutes.

You’ll paddle alongside the city walls toward Betina Cave’s hidden beach, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The tours typically last 2-3 hours and include equipment like kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.

Your family can explore Lokrum Island’s Game of Thrones filming locations or venture to the car-free Elaphiti Islands.

Guides ensure everyone’s safety while sharing local history and pointing out the best snorkeling spots. These small group experiences are rated EXCELLENT by 347 reviews, ensuring quality adventures for families. Prices start at $36 per adult, with free cancellation available.

Cruise to the Car-Free Elaphiti Islands

Three pristine, car-free islands await your family just off Dubrovnik’s coast, where crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches create the perfect escape from the city’s bustling crowds. You’ll catch ferries from Gruz Harbour to Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan for €7-11 per person, with Lopud’s 45-minute journey being quickest.

Full-day organized cruises offer excellent value at around $77 per adult, including lunch, drinks, and equipment for swimming and snorkeling. Your kids will love exploring Blue Cave and Green Caves, while Šunj Beach on Lopud provides safe, shallow waters perfect for families.

Tour operators supply swim aids and snorkeling gear for children, plus many boats offer wheelchair accessibility.

Book with free cancellation policies, and confirm accessibility needs when traveling with young children or mobility requirements.

Cool Off at Onofrio’s Historic Fountain

While exploring Dubrovnik’s bustling Stradun with your family, you’ll discover a perfect respite at the magnificent Large Onofrio’s Fountain. Kids can splash their hands in cool, fresh water and refill bottles for free.

This 600-year-old architectural marvel, designed by Italian architect Onofrio della Cava, features sixteen stone-carved masked faces that serve as water spouts—creating an enchanting experience for children who love counting and spotting differences in each unique face.

The fountain’s gravity-fed system delivers pristine water from the same Šumet spring that’s supplied Dubrovnik since 1440. Your kids will stay hydrated with water quality that exceeds bottled standards while learning about medieval engineering. The fountain remains accessible 24 hours daily, making it convenient for families exploring at any time.

Located conveniently near Pile Gate, it’s an essential stop for families seeking refreshment during Old Town explorations.

Visit the Maritime Museum’s Naval Treasures

When you’re ready for a cool respite during your City Walls exploration, head to the Maritime Museum housed within the historic St. John Fortress. This compact museum sits above the Dubrovnik Aquarium and offers 30 minutes to 2 hours of engaging discovery for families.

Start on the first floor, where you’ll find antique navigational tools like sextants that reveal Dubrovnik’s earliest seafaring history.

The upper floor showcases detailed ship model replicas with informative plaques, plus a fascinating map displaying historic Mediterranean trading routes. The museum is conveniently located along the City Walls, making it an easy stop during your wall walk.

Kids love the dedicated play section upstairs, featuring a scaled-down wooden ship for drawing and maritime activities. However, watch toddlers carefully near the open windows.

The Dubrovnik City Pass includes entry, making this an affordable, air-conditioned break.

Discover Marine Life at Dubrovnik Aquarium

Just beneath the Maritime Museum, you’ll find Dubrovnik Aquarium carved directly into the historic stone walls of St. John’s Fortress. This unique attraction houses 31 seawater tanks showcasing native Adriatic marine life in cannon niches and stone-carved spaces.

Your kids will be fascinated by the resident loggerhead turtle that’s called this place home since 1953, plus domesticated grouper and circling amberjacks in the larger tanks. They’ll spot colorful sea horses (the aquarium’s logo species), moray eels, octopuses, and various fish species native to local waters.

The aquarium’s compact size makes it perfect for young attention spans, while continuous fresh seawater flow keeps all creatures healthy. The well-instructed staff are available to help answer any questions your children might have about the marine exhibits. It’s open daily except Mondays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with admission around 10 euros.

Relax in Gradac Park’s Green Spaces

If your family needs a peaceful break from Dubrovnik’s bustling streets, Gradac Park offers 17,000 square meters of shaded pine forest just a short walk from the Old Town. Established in 1898, this tranquil retreat provides tree-lined avenues with benches where you can rest while kids explore safely.

Your children will love the small pond filled with goldfish near the entrance, and the shaded paths are perfect for leisurely family strolls. The park’s mature vegetation creates natural cooling, making it ideal during hot summer days.

You’ll enjoy panoramic views over Lovrijenac Fortress and the Old Town roofs while kids play in this rarely crowded space. Movie fans might recognize the scenery from Game of Thrones filming locations, particularly scenes from King Joffrey’s wedding in Season 4. Access the park via Pile Gate, then follow the stairs down this hidden gem that locals cherish.

Watch the Daily Pigeon Feeding at Gundulic Square

Every day at noon, Gundulić Square transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle as hundreds of pigeons descend from the red-tiled rooftops when the church bells chime. A city worker arrives with a bucket of corn, scattering it across the ancient cobblestones while pigeons rush behind Ivan Gundulić’s bronze statue for their daily feast.

This charming ritual captivates children and adults alike, creating perfect photo opportunities in Dubrovnik’s Old Town. You’ll find the square at the eastern end near the cathedral, easily accessible within the polished stone streets. The location also hosts the only open-air market within Old Town, where you can browse authentic Dubrovnik products after the pigeon feeding. Arrive a few minutes early to secure a good viewing spot, and keep little ones close as excited pigeons swoop overhead.

It’s free entertainment that’s become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors.

Picnic With Panoramic Views at Park Orsula

After exploring the bustling squares of Old Town, you’ll find a peaceful escape at Park Orsula, perched dramatically on steep cliffs just 3 kilometers southeast of the city center. This amphitheater offers spectacular panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s walls, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic coastline—perfect for family picnics.

Pack snacks and drinks for your visit, as the hilltop location provides an ideal setting for relaxation. Kids will love the open space while you enjoy breathtaking sunset views that paint the historic walls in golden tones.

Access the park via the parking area off the Cavtat road, or take the footpath from Sveti Jakov to avoid traffic. The venue combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a memorable family destination. You’ll be walking on truly historic ground, as the site preserves visible remains of a historic caravan route that once served as Dubrovnik’s main land access point.

The Sum Up

You’ve got incredible adventures waiting in Dubrovnik with your family. Start with easier activities like the aquarium or park visits if you’re traveling with younger children. Always pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for walking tours. Book ferry tickets and cable car rides in advance during peak season to avoid disappointment. Most importantly, don’t try to cram everything into one day—you’ll enjoy these experiences much more when you’re relaxed and well-rested.