What to Do in Dubrovnik When it Rains (2023 Guide)

Last updated on May 31st, 2023 at 08:21 am

Looking for the best things to do in Dubrovnik when it rains? I’ve got you covered!

You’ve finally made it to the majestic town of Dubrovnik. You’ve been anticipating this trip for weeks, imagining yourself strolling along the city walls in the Mediterranean sun, cliff jumping into the turquoise Adriatic Sea, exploring Lokrum Island, and sipping cocktails at the coolest beach clubs around the city.

But wait…the weather in Dubrovnik isn’t cooperating, and you’re left asking yourself: What to do in Dubrovnik when it rains?

I’ve lived in Croatia for nearly a decade and have visited Dubrovnik many times. In fact, the first time I ever visited the city, it was raining (one of the downsides of traveling in the shoulder season)! It was during that very visit that I discovered all the things to do in Dubrovnik when it rains.

From rejuvenating spa days to indulging in the city’s vibrant art scene, I’ve curated a list of activities that will turn rainy days into unforgettable memories. So don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits in Dubrovnik! This ancient town has lots of indoor activities that will keep you entertained and dry.

So grab your umbrella and let’s dive into a list of exciting things to do when it rains in Dubrovnik.

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What to Do in Dubrovnik When it Rains

Before getting into the best rainy day activities in Dubrovnik, let’s take a quick look at what you can expect from the weather in Dubrovnik.

Weather Dubrovnik Croatia

1. Pamper Yourself With a Spa Day

When the heavens open up, it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to some pampering. Dubrovnik boasts several luxurious spas where you can relax and unwind. Enjoy an ancient Thai massage treatment, rehydrate with a refreshing facial, or indulge in an aromatherapy session.

For a true VIP day, head over to Hotel Excelsior and spend the day indulging in some well-deserved self-care at their wellness center. Here, you can dive into the freshwater pool, soak in one of two jacuzzis (or both), go for a steam bath, destress in the Finnish sauna, listen to a podcast while sinking into a heated deck chair in the Relax Zone, or even get a workout in at the Fitness Center.

Tip: Expect the prices in Dubrovnik for these services to be more expensive than they are in other parts of Croatia.

2. Explore the Red History Museum

Journey through time and immerse yourself in Dubrovnik’s rich past at the Red History Museum. Focused on the history of the region, particularly during the turbulent 20th century, the Red History Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that bring the past to life. Here, visitors can learn about the struggles and triumphs of the city and its inhabitants, from the challenging years of the Yugoslav wars to the subsequent periods of rebuilding and revitalization.

What’s cool about this museum, is that it opens up a discussion about the city’s past that isn’t usually brought up on your typical Dubrovnik tour. The Red Museum invites visitors to learn about a different history, one that had a serious impact on the Croatian people that make up the country today. It sheds light on the effects of a communist regime on everyday life, from design and architecture to music and education. Overall, it’s a really interesting exhibit to check out, and perfect for escaping the Dubrovnik rain.

3. Discover Love Stories at the Museum of Love

Raindrops and romance go hand in hand, and what better place to revel in love than at the Love Stories Museum? Similar to its counterpart, the famed Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, the Love Stories Museum in Dubrovnik embraces the theme of human connections. However, unlike its melancholic sibling, this museum takes a different approach, focusing celebrating the stories of successful relationships.

Visitors are invited to meander through the exhibits, read heartfelt narratives, and witness tangible expressions of love. The museum is kid and family friendly, and is a great reminder to all that love bring joy, healing, and transformation.

4. Appreciate Art at the Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik

A rainy day provides the perfect backdrop to appreciate the creative wonders of the Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of contemporary art as you explore thought-provoking exhibitions and discover local and international artistic talent at the Museum of Modern Art in Dubrovnik. Housed inside the prestigious palace built by ship-owner Božo Banac, the museum spans four floors and boasts nine exhibition rooms.

One of the museum’s shining stars is its permanent collection, featuring works by the talented Vlaho Bukovac, a prominent artist born in the nearby town of Cavtat (his house is still there and has since been transformed into a museum honoring him). This exhibit in Dubrovnik provides an opportunity to connect with the rich artistic heritage of the region and appreciate the unique contributions of local talent.

5. Check out the War Photography Museum

Nestled within the ancient stone walls of Dubrovnik Old Town, the War Photography Museum is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the indelible impact of war. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of photojournalism that vividly captures the harrowing realities faced by individuals caught in the midst of conflicts.

This museum focuses not only on the wars that engulfed the former Yugoslavia region from 1991 to 2001 but also shines a light on subsequent and ongoing wars across the globe. As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll come face to face with striking images that depict the atrocities, the struggles, and the triumphs of those affected by war.

6. Savor Wine Tasting

Rain or shine, wine tasting is always a good idea – and some of the best Croatian wineries just so happen to be found around Dubrovnik! Seek refuge from the Dubrovnik storm in one of the city’s cozy wine bars and embark on a journey through Dalmatia’s exquisite wines. Sip on robust reds, crisp whites, and refreshing rosés as you learn about the intricate flavors and stories behind each glass.

One of my favorite places for a wine tasting in Dubrovnik is D’vino Wine Bar, located right in the heart of the Old Town!

7. Enjoy Local Brews at the Dubrovnik Beer Company

Beer lovers, rejoice! The Dubrovnik Beer Company is a hidden gem housed in the old salt warehouse in Gruž, Dubrovnik’s former industrial center. With a production capacity of 200,000 liters per year, it’s a beer lover’s paradise where you can sip on locally crafted brews from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. So, grab a pint, embrace the cozy ambiance, and let the Dubrovnik Beer Company be your shelter from the rain as you delve into the flavors of Croatia’s thriving beer scene.

If you’re curious to learn more about the process of making beer and want to meet the brewers, join one of their brewery tours. Tours last 45-minutes and include a guided walkthrough of the brewery and a chance to sample all four of their beers straight from the source accompanied by a selection of juicy burgers.

8. Challenge Yourself in an Escape Room

What to do when it rains in Dubrovnik with kids? Get ready for a fun activity for the whole family and put your problem-solving skills to the test at an escape room. Your family (or group of friends) will get the chance to work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape before time runs out. Choose from themes like Game of Thrones (the “King’s Landing Room”) or Treasure of Dubrovnik, and step foot into a world of adventure. An escape room is just the ticket when the weather in Dubrovnik just won’t cooperate!

9. Step into History at the Rector’s Palace

Rainy days offer the perfect opportunity to explore Dubrovnik’s historic treasures, and the Rector’s Palace is absolutely worth visiting. This stunning palace-turned-museum allows you to wander through grand halls, admire exquisite architecture, and delve into city’s fascinating past. Uncover the secrets of the Rector’s Palace and transport yourself back in time in Dubrovnik when it rains.

10. Explore the Dominican Monastery

It can be quite magical to visit the Franciscan monastery in the rain. The beautiful, hallowed walls of the 14th century Franciscan church and monastery create a serene sanctuary that houses religious artifacts as well as an impressive library with ancient manuscripts. If you visit, be sure to check out the old pharmacy, which has been active (uninterruptedly) since 1317 and is believed to be the third-oldest pharmacy in Europe!

11. Embrace the Croatian Coffee Culture

It’s no secret that Croatian’s love getting together for coffee – it’s simply part of the lifestyle in Croatia. “Idemo na kavu” is a common phrase in the Croatian language meaning “let’s get coffee”. This invitation is not so much about drinking coffee as it is sitting in a cozy cafe enjoying a drink for a few hours (this can be coffee, juice, beer, wine, or even a cocktail). However, if you want to experience Croatian coffee culture like a true local, be sure to order “kava s mlijekom” which is essentially a macchiato (a shot of espresso topped with a small amount of foamy milk).

There are many places in Dubrovnik where you can partake in this Croatian pastime, but a few of my favorite locations include: La Bodega, Cave Bar More, and Cogito Coffee.

12. Take a Cooking Class

Rainy days in Dubrovnik can be transformed into culinary adventures, and what better way to do so than by taking a cooking class? Picture yourself donning an apron, immersing your hands in local ingredients, and learning the secrets of Dalmatian cuisine.

With cooking classes offered by Dubrovnik Gourmet Tours, you’ll be guided by experienced chefs as you prepare traditional dishes such like peka, fresh seafood, and mouthwatering pastries. The best part about their cooking classes is that they are offered in various locations throughout the Dubrovnik-Neretva County and take place in traditional homes, local villages, and even wineries.

So, get out of the Dubrovnik rain and embrace the opportunity to master the art of Dalmatian cooking while the rain adds an extra sprinkle of magic to your culinary experience.

13. Take a day trip

What to do in Dubrovnik if it rains? Take a day trip!

Okay, I know what you’re thinking, but hear me out.

Oftentimes, due to Dubrovnik’s coastal location, the rain will be localized to the city. Check the weather to see if it’s better inland, and if it is, take a day trip! Here are a few places you can go to escape the rain in Dubrovnik:

Peljesac
Situated just an hour north of the city, the Peljesac Peninsula is brimming with wineries and offers a delightful wine tasting experience, perfect for a rainy day excursion from Dubrovnik. Hop in your rental car and embark on a scenic journey through countryside, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore the renowned wineries of Peljesac, savoring exquisite wines crafted from local grape varieties like Plavac Mali.

Konavle
Many people travel to the Dubrovnik region to experience the traditional architecture and scenic villages of old Croatia. However, one of the area’s best-hidden gems is the beautiful river Ljuta, which flows between the weathered remains of mills and viaducts, adding to the charm of the region’s quaint coastal towns. Start your visit in the village of Gruda and stroll beneath the ancient bridge. Enjoy a drink at a riverside cafe or stroll through the village markets. Stop at Konavoski Dvori for lunch, a gorgeous restaurant situated on the grounds of an ancient mill alongside the Ljuta River.

Mostar
One of the most popular activities is a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip, and for good reason! Just a stone’s throw from the Dubrovnik city walls, lies the enchanting destination of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. With its medieval history, picturesque surroundings, and charming cobbled alleys, Mostar beckons visitors to step into a world frozen in time. This town is most famous for its Old Stone Bridge (Stari Most), where an annual bridge jumping competition is held every year.

Mostar is small and pedestrian-friendly. I recommend strolling through one of the oldest parts of Mostar, Bazaar Kujundziluk, to be transported back in time to the Ottoman Empire. This traditional-style market is one of my favorite parts of the city where you can browse the shops selling Turkish rugs, scarves, copper cezve, and other trinkets. Complete your visit with a Turkish coffee!

Montenegro
Just a short journey away from Dubrovnik lie the breathtaking towns of Kotor and Budva, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Montenegro. It is generally recommended to take a tour for ease of exploration. This private tour is a great option as it includes a guide, hotel pickup, a ferry ride across Kotor Bay, a boat ride in Perast, and plenty of leisure time to explore Budva. See all the details and and prices here.

14. Attend a traditional folklore concert

If you’re up for a cultural experience, it’s worth going to a Linđo performance! The Linđo Ensemble is one of the oldest and prestigious Croatian folklore dance groups in the country. The word Linđo is not only the name of the group, but also the name of the most popular dance of Dubrovnik. Today, Linđo is a symbol of the city, and it is well worth seeking out a concert.

Concerts are held every Tuesday and Friday at 9:30 PM in Lazareti. You can learn more about the concert and purchase tickets online here.

15. Go to the Movies

Of course, when you’re traveling to new places, the last thing on your mind is going to the movie theater, which is something you can do at home. For this reason, I suggest going to the movies as a last resort option if you’ve already exhausted all of the ones above!

This could be a great activity option to do with kids though, and Dubrovnik does have a modern movie theater in the Lapad area just outside the Old Town. Plus, the majority of movies are played in their original language (English) with Croatian subtitles. Although if you plan to watch an animated film, double check to make sure it is not synchronized before purchasing your ticket.

Final Thoughts: What to Do When it Rains in Dubrovnik

Rain or shine, Dubrovnik continues to charm visitors with its impressive architecture, enchanting stone streets, and stunning coastline. While the city mostly enjoys sunny weather, occasional rain showers do occur. However, when it does rain in Dubrovnik, there are plenty of indoor adventures to discover.

Whether you choose to indulge in a pampering spa day, uncover the intriguing stories at the Red History Museum, or immerse yourself in the art scene at the Museum of Modern Art, Dubrovnik offers plenty of exciting activities to keep you entertained.

Before you go, be sure to check out this post on Pasjaca Beach and save it for a sunny day in Dubrovnik!

Frequently Asked Questions

Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia?
As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia).

🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia?
Croatian is the official language of Croatia.

🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance?
10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it. You never know what can happen on the road (like that time I had to go to urgent care in Thailand for a severe case of dehydration). Luckily I had SafetyWing insurance that covered my bill. Their average plan is $42 for 28 days – that’s $1.50 a day to enjoy peace of mind…just get it. Plus you can adjust your length of coverage to your specific dates of travel, so you could be paying even less than that!

📱 Will my phone work in Croatia?
Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo. Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia!

🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations?
For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site.

🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights?
I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.

🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia?
Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here)

💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia?
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! (Read more)

🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia?
Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.