Romantic 2-Day Dubrovnik Escape for Couples
A slow-paced, intimate 48 hours in Dubrovnik focused on golden-hour views, cozy cafés, cliffside cocktails, quiet island time and two romantic dinners — timed for spring warmth and long evenings in May.
Highlights
- Sunset cliffside cocktails at Buža Bar
- Golden-hour walk on the Walls of Dubrovnik
- Private-feel island time on Lokrum
- Spa for two and sunset from Mount Srđ
- Two intimate seaside dinners
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival, unhurried Old Town stroll, golden-hour city walls, cliffside sunset and a refined seaside dinner.
Hotel arrival & unwind — Hotel Excelsior
Check in, freshen up and take a quiet moment on your sea-facing balcony or the hotel terrace to start the romantic weekend.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask reception for a sea-view room and a high floor when you check in — the sunrise/sunset light is lovely from the balcony.
- If you want a couples' spa later, book treatments now with the hotel spa to secure a late-afternoon slot.
- Arrive light and change in the room; the hotel terrace is perfect for a private aperitif before heading into Old Town.
Leisurely stroll through Dubrovnik Old Town (Stradun + alleys)
Wander the pedestrian Stradun and the quiet side alleys hand-in-hand; pop into artisan shops and small galleries en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Aim for the late-afternoon stretch to avoid the busiest midday crowds — light is gorgeous and the city feels intimate.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the limestone streets are pretty but uneven; take breaks on small café terraces.
- Seek out little viewpoints on the narrow alleys (e.g., near Onofrio Fountain) for candid couple photos away from the main crowds.
Walk the Walls of Dubrovnik at golden hour
Walk a romantic stretch of the city walls during golden hour; choose the western sections for sweeping sea views as light softens.
Tips from local experts:
- Buy timed-entry tickets online in advance to skip queues and secure a late-afternoon slot for golden-hour light.
- Head anti-clockwise and linger on the western ramparts for quieter spots and better sunset photo angles.
- Bring a light wrap — the breeze on the walls is refreshing in May, especially near the sea-facing sections.
Sunset cliffside cocktail — Buža Bar
Share a cocktail perched on the cliffs outside the city walls as the sun dips below the Adriatic — an intimate, iconic Dubrovnik moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive a little before sunset to claim one of the limited cliffside seats — they fill early with couples aiming for the view.
- Order a light shared plate and the house cocktail; the experience is more about the setting than an elaborate meal.
- Note the steps down to the bar are uneven; if mobility is an issue, ask staff for the easiest access route or a quieter nearby spot.
Romantic seaside dinner — Restaurant Nautika
Reserve a table with a sea view for a refined Croatian seafood dinner — perfect for a special first night.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve in advance and request a table on the terrace or by the low wall for the best sea-and-fortress ambience.
- Consider the tasting menu for a relaxed multi-course experience; tell them it's a special evening — they often add a small touch.
- Dress smart-casual; it’s a refined setting and a dressier look complements the evening.
Day 2
Island morning on Lokrum, late lunch, couples' spa downtime and a sunset cable car to Mount Srđ with a scenic dinner to close the trip.
Breakfast at Gradska Kavana Arsenal — harbor terrace
Start with a relaxed breakfast overlooking the old port — espresso and a light Croatian pastry before your island trip.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the terrace for fresh sea air and views of the boats — perfect for planning the island morning together.
- Try a local jam or honey with your pastry for a small taste of Dubrovnik’s flavors.
- If you prefer a lighter or quicker start, order takeaway coffee and stroll to the ferry pier together.
Short transfer & boarding — Old Port to Lokrum
Walk down to the Old Port and board the short public ferry to Lokrum Island — frequent departures in spring.
Tips from local experts:
- Ferries are frequent in May but lines form — arrive 15 minutes before departure for priority boarding with luggage or a picnic.
- Bring cash in small denominations for any island kiosks; some smaller vendors are cash-preferred.
- If you prefer privacy, ask about a small private boat shuttle at the pier — pricier but intimate.
Explore Lokrum Island — botanical gardens, fortress & 'Dead Sea' swim
Discover quiet paths, the botanical garden, the small 'Dead Sea' lagoon for a swim and the Fort Royal ruins with panoramic views.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring swimwear and a towel in a light bag — the small lagoon is a lovely, less-crowded spot for a dip and a private float.
- Climb to Fort Royal for sweeping views back to Dubrovnik — it’s a perfect place for a shared quiet moment and a snapshot.
- Pack a picnic or pick up light snacks before boarding; there are limited shaded cafés on the island in spring.
Late lunch back in Old Town — Restaurant Proto
Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch in an intimate Old Town setting — fresh local fish and classic Adriatic dishes.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a quieter table on the side terrace or inside by the wall for a cozy atmosphere away from the main street.
- Share a couple of plates (mezze-style) to taste more local specialties without feeling rushed.
- Ask for wine pairings from local Dubrovnik producers to complement seafood dishes.
Couples' spa session — Hotel Excelsior Spa & Wellness
Return to the hotel for a pre-sunset couples' massage or spa ritual — a soothing, private recharge before evening plans.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples' package in advance and request side-by-side treatment rooms for a completely shared experience.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to use the sauna/steam facilities together; it heightens the post-massage relaxation.
- If the spa is full, ask for a late-afternoon waiting list slot — cancellations often free up prime times on short notice.
Cable car to Mount Srđ — sunset viewpoint
Take the cable car up to Mount Srđ, stroll to the viewpoint for sweeping city-and-sea panoramas and watch the sun lower over the Adriatic.
Tips from local experts:
- Take an early ascent to secure a quiet spot at the main viewpoint; sunset in May is later, so arrive with time to settle.
- Bring a light jacket — it can be noticeably windier and cooler at the top even in spring evenings.
- Buy return cable car tickets or verify the last departure time down the hill; small delays can mean a longer wait for the return car after sunset.
Final romantic dinner — 360° Dubrovnik (or similar fine-dining experience)
End the trip with a memorable multi-course dinner featuring contemporary cuisine and dramatic views — ideal for a celebratory final evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve the tasting menu and request a table with a view; mention it's your romantic dinner so staff can add thoughtful touches.
- Arrive mindful of time after the cable car descent — allow 30–45 minutes to return to the Old Town before dinner reservation.
- Keep the evening unhurried: order dessert and a digestif to linger over conversations and night views of the illuminated walls.
