Dubrovnik, Croatia-travel-tips

Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Respect the City Walls and Old Town

  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep noise levels down, especially at night.
  • Refrain from littering and respect the city’s historic architecture.

Dress Modestly

  • Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting churches or monasteries.
  • Avoid revealing clothing, especially in rural areas.

Greet Locals with a Smile

  • Say “Bok” (hello) or “Hvala” (thank you) to show appreciation for the local culture.
  • Be prepared for locals to be reserved at first, but warm up quickly once you show respect and interest in their culture.

Table Manners

  • Keep your hands visible on the table, not in your lap.
  • Try a little of everything offered, even if you’re not sure what it is.
  • Finish your meal, as leaving food uneaten can be considered impolite.

Beach Etiquette

  • Respect private property and avoid trespassing on beachfront areas marked as private.
  • Keep the beaches clean and take your trash with you when you leave.

Tipping Culture

  • Round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants and cafes.
  • Tip tour guides and drivers around 10-15%.

Learn a Few Key Phrases

  • “Hvala” (HA-vlah) - thank you
  • “Molim” (MO-leem) - please
  • “Izvinite” (IZ-vee-neh-teh) - excuse me
  • “Koliko košta?” (KOH-lee-koh KOH-sh-tah) - how much does it cost?

Be Prepared for Crowds

  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak tourist season crowds.
  • Book tickets and tours in advance to save time.

Respect the Local Environment

  • Bring a refillable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Be mindful of your impact on the city’s infrastructure and natural resources.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Dubrovnik like a pro, show respect for the local culture, and have an unforgettable experience in this stunning Croatian city!