Free Things to Do in Dubrovnik With Kids

When you’re traveling with kids on a budget in Europe, Dubrovnik may not be the first name on your mind.

However, today, you’ll learn why it’s an excellent choice for you and your family.

With a pedestrianized Old Town, gorgeous Game of Thrones filming locations, and a beautiful, balmy climate from March to November, it’s one of Europe’s best locations for varied family activities.

But what about the cost? Yes, traveling with kids in Croatia can be pricey. That’s why we’ve compiled the best free things to do in Dubrovnik with kids to make your travel planning easier.

Related read: Your Guide for Visiting Dubrovnik, Croatia!

Here is an overview:

Top Free Attractions in Dubrovnik for Families

Here are the top free family-friendly attractions in Dubrovnik that all ages will love!

Stroll through the Old Town

The UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik is the first place we’d recommend exploring with your little ones. Not only do the streets tell a story of Croatian history, but they are also completely car-free. That means your family is safe to wander without the stress of traffic.

Kids can pretend to be knights, princesses, and warriors among the stone walls. Plus, the web of narrow alleyways, hidden stairways, and stately fountains (like Onofrio’s Fountain) provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Tip: Book a free walking tour to get the local perspective of the city’s history.

Visit Lokrum Island

While parts of Lokrum Island have an entry fee of €27 per adult, the ferry is often free and an experience in itself. Sail over the crystal blue waters as you set out onto a wonderland of flora and fauna.

Imagine a place where peacocks and rabbits roam freely. Nature is manicured into lush botanical gardens and shaded oaths. You can also enjoy exploring the ruins of a Benedictine monastery as a unique adventure, as entry is not free.

If your kids love animals and exploring the outdoors, this should be a high priority on your list!

Explore the Game of Thrones filming locations

Is your teenager a Game of Thrones buff? Dubrovnik will feel like a unique Easter egg hunt of locations.

Skip the paid tour and use a mobile guide or free walking map to scout the familiar backgrounds.

Some have entry fees, but the following are family-friendly Game of Thrones locations you can visit for free:

• Dubrovnik West Harbour AKA Backwater Bay
• Fort Lovrijenac AKA The Red Keep
• Pile Gate
• The Jesuit Staircase (below Saint Ignatius Church)

Bask in the views on Srđ Hill

Want a free alternative to the cable car up to the famous Srđ Hill? You can drive or walk!

Walking is quite the hike, taking around 50 minutes at a moderate pace, but the views when you get there are spectacular.

Start your walk in the morning with low heat and wear plenty of sun protection during the summer months. We also caution against doing this walk with small children, but tweens and teens with a thirst for a good hike will love it!

See boats and local fishermen at Dubrovnik Port

If your kid is mad about boats, they’ll love walking along Dubrovnik Port or any of the many marinas dotted around the coastline.

See real boats and local fishermen at work against the scenic landscape of aquamarine waters. Plenty of opportunities to take family photos and eat fresh fish at the local restaurants.

Fun Outdoor Activities in Dubrovnik That Won’t Cost a Dime

Want to explore the outdoors in Dubrovnik with your kids? Here are our recommendations for things to do in Dubrovnik with kids outdoors:

Hit the beach

Is there anything more glorious than chilling with your family at the beach in Dubrovnik? 

Our favorite spots (with free entry) are:

• Lapad Bay Beach: Family-friendly beach with calm waters and shade. However, the ground is pebbly, so wear appropriate footwear
• Banje Beach: Popular pebble beach a stone’s throw away from the Old Town. Fills up quickly, so get there early.
• Copacabana Beach (Babin Kuk): Located 7 minutes’ drive from Dubrovnik. Great for families as it has shallow waters and plenty of space for sand play.

Get a free off-season walking tour

The local tourism board offers free walking tours in the off-season (from November to March) on Saturday mornings. This is a great free activity to do in Dubrovnik with your kids as they’ll learn about Croatian history and culture while exploring the city through a new lens.

Better yet, occasionally there are folk singing and dance performances in Old Town to delight your family.

Find a hiking or walking trail

If you have older children who love a scenic walk, here are the hiking trails we’d recommend in Dubrovnik:

• Velika Petka Hill (Lapad Peninsula): This relatively easy two-hour trail is child—and pet-friendly and available year-round.
• Srđ Hill trail: Moderate uphill hike taking around 50 minutes with stunning panoramic views.

Tip: Be mindful of the weather. The temperatures can climb to 30C/86F in the summer.

Watch street performers in the Old Town

On a summer evening, Dubrovnik comes alive with musicians, dancers, and human statues. Your children will love the colorful costumes and joyful beat of Čilipi Folklore music and dance. Performances are out in the open and free to all.

Free Historical Sites in Dubrovnik Kids Will Love

These Dubrovnik historical attractions are a must-see if your kid is a history buff.

Pile Gate & Old Town Walls (Outer Viewpoints)

Pretend you’re in a medieval fortress saving the city from dragons beyond the wall! The Old Town walls have their own stories, but are also the perfect place to imagine new ones. You can engage your children for hours, imagining their enchanted castle and taking incredible photos.

Rector’s Palace & Luža Square

Not only is the architecture sublime, but there is often live music outside to add to the atmosphere.

It’s a great photo opportunity for you and your family. The palace now houses the Cultural History Museum, which has a small entry fee if you want to explore inside.

Churches in the Old Town

The Old Town of Dubrovnik has stunning churches with intricate architecture and free entry. We like:

• Dubrovnik Cathedral
• St. Blaise Church
• Saint Ignatius Church
• Franciscan Monastery*

*The museum section has an entry fee.

Clock Tower & Bell Chime (Stradun)

Located in Luža Square, the Clock Tower and Bell Chime is a unique place. It stands 31 meters high and was built in the 14th Century.

Kids love watching the mechanical figures and hourly bells!

Forts

Dubrovnik is home to several forts, that give the city a magical, historical quality. Your kids will adore peaking over the walls at the amazing views below and pretending they are fearsome knights

Here are some family-friendly forts to visit in Dubrovnik:

• Fort Lovrijenac: Stunning from afar, especially at sunset.
• Fort Revelin near Ploče Gate: Large open space outside to roam.
• Fort St. John: Entrance to the old port with cannons to pose with.

Best Free Parks and Playgrounds in Dubrovnik for Family Days Out

Discover the best free parks and playgrounds in Dubrovnik where your kids can explore during your vacation.

Pile Gate (Boninovo area)

This playground is popular with tourists and locals alike. It has swings, slides, and plenty of shade. It is a great rest stop as you explore the Old Town.

Park Gradac (above Dance Beach)

If you want a less touristy place, local families bring their children to Park Gradac. It’s pine-shaded and has peaceful ocean views.

Uvala Lapad Playground

This playground is near the cafés and beach at Lapad, so you can relax with a coffee as your kids play. There are plenty of playground facilities here, such as slides, swings, and bouncers.

Gruž Market

Want a nice family picnic in Dubrovnik? The public green spaces near Gruž Market are serene in the mornings and picnic-friendly in the afternoons.

And there you have it! The best free things to do in Dubrovnik with kids. To make your vacation the best it can possibly be, we have a few extra tips for you:

• Choose the right season: If you can, avoid the summer rush. Coming in late fall or early spring means fewer crowds and more local culture. Plus, the weather is still great!
• Bring snacks & water bottles: Food and drink can be pricey in Dubrovnik. Bringing your own snacks as you explore will ensure your vacation doesn’t break the bank.
• Use public fountains: Free drinking water is available at Onofrio’s Fountain.
• Ask your hotel about local events: Your Airbnb host or hotel reception can let you know about the any free concerts, puppet shows, or open museum days during your stay.

Related read: Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik: Hidden Gems Beyond the City Walls