Dubrovnik is more than a destination — it’s a canvas of light, color, and history. From the medieval city walls to Adriatic blues, the city invites photographers to capture its essence in every corner. In this guide, I share my favorite places to explore and photograph in Dubrovnik, plus insider tips to help you make the most of your shoot.
Top Photography Spots in Dubrovnik
1. City Walls
- Why shoot here: Elevated, 360° views of rooftops, the sea, and historic towers.
- Best time: Early morning (8 AM) or golden hour (just before sunset) to avoid crowds and harsh light.
- Photo tip: Bring a polarizer to enhance sky and sea contrast.
2. Stradun (Main Street)
- Why shoot here: Symmetry, Baroque architecture, polished stone that reflects light.
- Best time: Early morning or late at night for moody, quiet shots.
- Photo tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture full facades.
3. Fort Lovrijenac
- Why shoot here: Offers a panoramic view of the city from above and dramatic cliffs.
- Best time: Late afternoon for directional light on the city walls.
- Bonus: Great place for cinematic portraits.
4. Buža Bar (Cliff Bar)
- Why shoot here: Sunset over the sea, cliff silhouettes, boats passing by.
- Best time: Sunset.
- Photo tip: Use silhouettes of people against the orange horizon.
5. Old Town Alleys
- Why shoot here: Intimate, atmospheric street scenes; laundry lines; cats; locals.
- Best time: Mid-morning or late afternoon.
- Photo tip: A 35mm or 50mm lens is ideal for street photography here.
6. Mount Srđ
- Why shoot here: Aerial city view, sunset panorama, cable car.
- Best time: Sunset.
- Tip: Bring a tripod for long exposures or time-lapses.
Walking Route for Photographers
Start: Pile Gate
➡️ Walk the City Walls (1.5 hrs)
➡️ Descend into Stradun
➡️ Explore hidden alleys & grab a coffee
➡️ Head to Fort Lovrijenac (entry included with wall ticket)
➡️ Sunset drink + photos at Buža Bar
➡️ End the day with twilight shots at Porporela pier
Photography Gear Recommendations for Dubrovnik
- Camera: Lightweight mirrorless or DSLR
- Lenses: Wide-angle (16–35mm), standard (35mm or 50mm), and zoom (70–200mm for compressed cityscapes)
- Tripod: For night and sunset shots (optional but useful)
- Polarizing filter: For shooting near the sea
- Extra batteries & SD cards: Limited charging spots during the day
- Lightweight camera bag: Dubrovnik has lots of stairs!
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik for Photography
- April to June – Great weather, fewer crowds
- September to mid-October – Warm colors, softer light, still pleasant weather
- Avoid: July & August (high heat, harsh light, heavy tourist traffic)
Travel Tips for Photographers
- Wear comfy shoes – The city is built on steps!
- Hydrate – Summer heat can be draining, especially while carrying gear.
- Most places only accept euros, and water bottles can be pricey — bring your own.
- Be respectful when photographing locals, especially in residential alleys.
- Drone use is restricted — you’ll need a permit to fly legally within the Old Town area.
Dubrovnik is a dream for photographers who love contrast: light vs shadow, sea vs stone, stillness vs movement. Whether you’re capturing travel memories or building your portfolio, this city will give you timeless frames to treasure.
If you’d like to see my gallery from Dubrovnik or book a private photo session while you’re visiting, head to my Contact or Portfolio page!
