Many people love rain and find some kind of comfort in such weather. But not during vacation. Nobody loves rain during their vacation. You almost feel stripped of the experiences you might have had if it was a sunny day. Dubrovnik is known for its Mediterranean climate and a lot of sunny days, but it sometimes rains in Dubrovnik, too. These rainy days can feel dull, but there you have many options and don’t have to spend your day sitting in your accommodation. We bring you some ideas on what to do in Dubrovnik when it rains.
Look at the rain in Dubrovnik as an opportunity since it really is that. Imagine a crowded summer day, and the rain starts. Suddenly, the streets of Dubrovnik become empty, and rain brings that extra medieval vibe to the whole experience of the Old Town. You can still enjoy exploring it if you have the proper equipment. Or, for example, rain can make you try something you never thought you’d try. Just look at the positive sides of the rain in Dubrovnik and accept the opportunities it gives you.
Let’s continue in this positive tone before we explore what to do in Dubrovnik when it rains.
Embracing the Rain in Dubrovnik: A Unique Experience Just like most travelers, you probably dream of enjoying Dubrovnik under clear blue skies, but as we already mentioned, a rainy day in Dubrovnik can be an opportunity rather than a disappointment. When the rain falls, the city’s narrow stone streets glisten, the crowds disappear , and you get to experience Dubrovnik in a way most visitors never do.
The Old Town takes on a moody, cinematic atmosphere , making it a perfect time for slow exploration, photography, and discovering hidden spots without the usual crowds. This sounds so good that it’s kind of a shame it doesn’t rain in Dubrovnik more often.
Instead of letting the rain ruin your plans, embrace it with the Stoic mindset and proper gear . You can’t change the weather, but you can change how you perceive it. Here’s what you need to stay comfortable and make the most of a rainy day in Dubrovnik .
Essential Rain Gear for Exploring During Rainy Day in Dubrovnik To enjoy Dubrovnik in rainy weather , a few simple rain accessories can make all the difference:
1. Waterproof Rain Poncho or Travel Umbrella
We always bring it if there’s a chance of rain. A lightweight rain poncho is better than an umbrella in Dubrovnik because of the narrow streets and strong coastal winds . Also, it covers your whole body and takes up little space in your luggage.
If you prefer an umbrella , that’s perfectly fine, but choose a windproof one since the rain in Dubrovnik is often accompanied by the Jugo wind.
2. Waterproof Shoes or Non-Slip Footwear
The limestone-paved streets of Dubrovnik become incredibly slippery when wet. Proper footwear and careful walking are essential to avoid slipping. No rush on a rainy day in Dubrovnik.
Go for waterproof hiking shoes, sneakers with good grip, or non-slip sandals if it’s warm enough, despite the rain.
3. Quick-Dry Clothing and Layers
Dubrovnik’s weather can shift quickly , so layering is key .
Choose quick-dry materials like polyester or merino wool instead of cotton and enjoy the comfort of these materials.
4. Waterproof Backpack or Dry Bag
If you’re carrying a camera, phone, or travel essentials, a waterproof backpack or dry bag will keep your belongings safe from unexpected rain showers in Dubrovnik.
5. Microfiber Towel & Extra Socks
A small, quick-dry microfiber towel can help if you get caught in the rain.
Pack an extra pair of socks to keep your feet dry in case you step into a puddle.
6. Camera or Phone with Waterproof Protection
Rainy days create a unique atmosphere for photography —reflections on the wet stone streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and misty views over the city walls .
Waterproof phone cases or ziplock bags will protect your devices while still allowing you to capture some amazing shots.
As you can see, by coming prepared with the right rain gear , you won’t just survive a rainy day in Dubrovnik—you’ll enjoy it! Now, let’s dive into the best things to do in Dubrovnik when it rains .
What to Do in Dubrovnik when it Rains Uncover the Museums of Dubrovnik Dubrovnik has captivating museums that offer a perfect opportunity for you to immerse in the city’s vibrant history and culture without getting wet. Here are a few of them.
Rector’s Palace Museum : Located in the center of the Old Town, this museum once served as the home of Dubrovnik’s leaders. Today, you can explore a collection of artifacts, art pieces, and furniture from different eras, offering a gaze into Dubrovnik’s history and culture.War Photo Limited : Something a bit different. This museum is an exhibition that features striking photographs from recent conflicts, such as the Croatian War of Independence—a display that shows Dubrovnik’s strength and endurance.Maritime Museum : This museum is located within St. John Fortress and highlights Dubrovnik’s rich seafaring history with displays of ship models, nautical charts, and tales of maritime triumphs.Dubrovnik Aquarium: It features large tanks filled with local fish, sea turtles, and marine species, making it a great indoor activity, especially for families visiting Dubrovnik.
Visiting these museums is a great way to enjoy a rainy day in Dubrovnik while discovering its cultural and historical significance.
Embark on a Guided Tour Inspired by Game of Thrones Even if it’s raining outside, a Game of Thrones walking tour is a must for fans of this widely popular HBO series! As you already know, Dubrovnik served as the backdrop for King’s Landing, and many of the series scenes were filmed here. A bit of rain in Dubrovnik can even enhance the vibe of these filming spots and make the experience feel even better.
Explore the city with a guided tour that includes must-visit locations such as the Jesuit Steps (Walk of Shame), Fort Lovrijenac (Red Keep), and the Pile Gate. Local guides will share intriguing behind-the-scenes tales and fun facts, and even offer props for memorable photos to capture your experience in Westeros.
Of course, check online whether the tour is available, but we believe that there are many guides willing to embark on a such tour during rainy day in Dubrovnik.
Explore the Attractions on Lokrum Island Lokrum Island, located just 15 minutes of a boat ride away from Dubrovnik, is famous for its natural scenery and also offers various indoor locations that are perfect for rainy days. If the weather allows, hop aboard a short boat ride and check out these attractions:
Lokrum Monastery : Built in the medieval era by Benedictine monks, this stunning monastery houses a small but charming museum. It’s a peaceful place to explore while staying dry.Game of Thrones Throne Room : Inside the monastery, you’ll find a replica of the Iron Throne where you can capture photos as if you are the ruler of Westeros.
Lokrum’s indoor attractions and unique atmosphere make it a destination worth exploring, even on a rainy day.
Unwind at a Café or a Charming Wine Bar Now something easygoing where you don’t have to walk at all. Dubrovnik offers plenty of cozy cafés and wine bars where you can retreat from the rain and relax in a warm setting. This is a perfect option if the rain is just a quick passing shower that will pass over Dubrovnik in an hour or so.
Cafés in Old Town : Grab a cup of coffee, tea, or a pastry while watching the rain falling down on the stone streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Cafés like Gradska Kavana offer great views of Stradun.Wine Bars : The Dalmatia region is famous for its exceptional wines. Visit spots like D’Vino Wine Bar or Malvasija Wine Bar to taste local wines, including Plavac Mali, paired with cheese and local products.
Having a cup of coffee when it rains in Dubrovnik is one of our favorite activities and it can be quite mesmerizing experience.
Join a Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Now here’s something fun. Consider joining a cooking class in Dubrovnik ! You heard it well. These classes offer you the chance to learn how to prepare traditional Croatian dishes while staying warm and dry indoors.
Classes typically start with an introduction to local ingredients, followed by step-by-step guidance on creating classic dishes such as peka (meat and vegetables baked under a dome), fresh seafood recipes, and štrukli (a delicious pastry). After cooking, you’ll enjoy a meal of your own creation. Now this has to be one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik when it rains.
Explore the Churches and Cathedrals of Dubrovnik Rainy days in Dubrovnik are perfect for exploring Dubrovnik’s churches and cathedrals, which are rich in history and architectural beauty.
Dubrovnik Cathedral : Known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, the cathedral also houses a treasury filled with relics dating back to the previous centuries and the times of the Dubrovnik Republic.Church of St. Blaise : Located in the heart of Old Town, this Baroque church is dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint and features intricate details.Franciscan Monastery : This historic site houses one of Europe’s oldest operational pharmacies, a peaceful cloister, and a small museum with historical artifacts. We spend a lot of time in this monastery when in Dubrovnik and it’s the perfect way to escape the crowds in Dubrovnik.
These sacred sites offer a reflective and culturally enriching escape from the rain.
Try an Escape Room Challenge One of our favorite things to do when it rains in Dubrovnik – an escape room challenge in Dubrovnik. These are interactive games where teams solve puzzles and uncover clues to escape a themed room within a time limit which is usually 60 minutes. Many escape rooms in Dubrovnik feature historical or pirate-inspired themes, adding a local twist to the adventure.
It’s an engaging way to bond with friends or family while staying dry and it’s a great activity to try during your stay, not only when it rains in Dubrovnik.
Shop for Local Goods and Souvenirs Rainy days are perfect for exploring Dubrovnik’s artisan shops and markets.
Gundulićeva Poljana Market : Even when the market slows due to rain, nearby shops offer handmade crafts, lavender products, olive oils, and regional wines.Local Artisan Shops : Roam through the Old Town to find unique items like handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and art.Traditional Souvenirs : Pick up embroidered linens, Konavle jewelry, or a bottle of Croatian rakija (fruit brandy) to take home a piece of Dubrovnik. Beware of the liquid limits if you have arrived in Dubrovnik by airplane.
Shopping on a rainy day in Dubrovnik not only keeps you entertained but also supports local businesses. Win-win situation.
Explore the Red History Museum The Red History Museum offers a fascinating look at life in Croatia during the Yugoslav era. Through interactive displays, authentic artifacts, and multimedia exhibits, the museum presents you with a vivid picture of daily life under socialism.
This museum is perfect for those curious about Dubrovnik’s modern history and provides an engaging, educational indoor activity on a rainy day.
Before you venture to explore Dubrovnik on a Rainy Day As you can see from this article, when it rains in Dubrovnik , it doesn’t have to spoil your all of your plans and there is no need to get nervous about the weather. Instead, take the opportunity to explore the city’s fascinating indoor attractions, from museums and cooking classes to cozy cafés and escape rooms. There are plenty of things to do in Dubrovnik when it rains that will keep you entertained. We hope this article proved helpful for you and showed you what to do in Dubrovnik when it rains.
Finally, you can have the great experience of exploring the Old Town in the rain. Enjoy the moody weather in Dubrovnik.
