10 Things to Do in Dubrovnik with Kids

Embark on an off-road adventure with all the family, seeing the sights surrounding Dubrovnik on a fantastic Buggy Safari. This fun-filled thrill ride will see you exploring ancient fortresses, former minefields and rolling countryside, teeming with wildlife. Best of all, you get the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline, making for an unforgettable experience.

The 2-hour tours take place on 4-seater buggies, driven by professional, English-speaking guides. You can join a group tour or book a premium, private tour that picks you up from a place of your choosing in Dubrovnik.

The Elaphiti Islands is an archipelago that lies off the coast of Dubrovnik. You can embrace the beautiful Croatian weather and head out to sea for a full day of island-hopping around the Adriatic Sea. 3 of the most popular islands to visit include Šipan (the largest), charming Koločep, and Lopud – the most beautiful of them all.

Many operators running cruises to the Elaphiti Islands include lunch and often the option to snorkel, too. The island-hopping cruise takes around 8 hours, so be sure to pack sunscreen, water, swimwear, comfy shoes and, of course, a camera. Book online, at your hotel, or with one of the vendors in town.

The Walls of Dubrovnik are among the city’s most iconic attractions, offering an adventure that's as educational as it is fun. The oldest parts of the limestone structure date back to the 7th century – you can climb the many towers and forts that are connected by these walls.

Take great family photos on the Walls of Dubrovnik, with the incredible backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, the picturesque Old Port and the Old Town’s blanket of terracotta rooftops. You can take the anticlockwise route at either Pile Gate, Ploče Gate or the Maritime Museum. Be sure to take plenty of water with you, as it gets pretty hot up there.

Lapad Beach's protected location in the bay means that the shallow turquoise water is suitable for kids to paddle in, plus there are lifeguards on duty and umbrellas and sun loungers to relax on.

The beach is right in the centre of Lapad, so it’s backed by plenty of restaurants, ice cream parlours and bars for when you’ve all worked up an appetite or thirst. You’ll also find tennis courts and children’s play areas nearby. Lapad Beach is easily reached by bus, just a 10-minute trip from the Old Town.

Dubrovnik Cable Car, located just outside the Old Town, is a 4-minute ride that takes you on a journey to the peak of the city, Mount Srđ. Watch the excited look on your kids’ faces as they enjoy unrivalled panoramic views on the way up. At the top, take your time soaking up the sights and visiting the souvenir shop and restaurant.

It’s rare for a city so ancient to have an attraction so modern, but for little legs that find it harder to climb Dubrovnik’s steep hills, it’s a welcoming way to see the sights.

Cadmos Village Adventure Park is an eco-friendly adventure park within the picturesque Konavle region. Get your adrenaline pumping on 4 different ziplines and ride a giant swing, as well as try your hand at archery and paintballing. 

Cadmos Village Adventure Park has a restaurant and a treehouse hotel, too. With a special focus on sustainable tourism and respecting nature, it’s a great place for kids to learn and play. It's within a 30-minute drive from Dubrovnik.

The Zarkovica Animal Shelter is home to more than 300 dogs and is run purely by passionate and dedicated volunteers. They welcome visitors of all ages who want to take a look around, see the work that they do, and meet the resident dogs and cats. 

As a way of giving back during your family holiday, you can play with the rescued animals and volunteer by taking the dogs for a walk or by donating.  Perched on a hilltop overlooking Dubrovnik, the Zarkovica Animal Shelter is within a 15-minute drive from the Old Town. You can also get there by catching bus 17 from Pile Gate.

Sea kayaking is a hugely popular activity around Dubrovnik and even children can enjoy the unique opportunity. You can enjoy an unforgettable Croatian sunset over Dubrovnik’s stunning coast from the prime position of the surrounding waters. 

If you're with older kids, there are plenty of places from which you can hire the equipment and head off on your own adventure. For a kayaking experience that’s suitable for the whole family, book a guided sea-kayaking tour to explore hidden spots along the coast. Paddle beneath the city walls, discover impressive caves, and take a dip in the water as you watch the sun go down.

Watch a family favourite under the stars at the only open-air cinema within the ancient city walls. Kino Jadran brings a unique attraction to Dubrovnik, with kids and adults alike enjoying the novelty of an outdoor movie experience. Predominantly visited by those on holiday in the city, you can watch classics such as Disney’s The Lion King on a mild Croatian evening. With a large projector screen and seating for up to 300 cinemagoers, it makes for a truly magical atmosphere.

The cinema is only open during the summer months and its evening shows are weather dependent. Ticket prices are incredibly reasonable, and you can find out what shows are on by visiting Kino Jadran’s website.