A serene sunset over Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls at dusk. Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a fairytale setting for honeymooners. This historic walled city on Croatia’s coast offers Old World charm, crystal-blue seas, and intimate luxury – an alluring mix for U.S.-based couples looking for romance. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand down cobblestone lanes, dining by the Adriatic Sea at sunset, or waking up to panoramic ocean views. In this post, we highlight the best honeymoon hotels in Dubrovnik (all within the city limits) that blend romance, luxury, and a sense of place. Each recommendation below focuses on unique settings, upscale amenities, and the special touches that make Dubrovnik the destination for an unforgettable honeymoon.
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
Just a five-minute stroll from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the iconic Hotel Excelsior has been wooing honeymooners for over a century. Partly housed in a historic 1913 villa, this 5-star seafront hotel exudes timeless elegance and boasts one of the best views in the city – a panorama of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s medieval walls. Many rooms feature private balconies facing the sea and Old Town, so you can toast the sunset from your suite in privacy. Couples love the blend of old and new here: a heritage façade paired with modern luxury and impeccable service.
- Romantic Highlights: The Excelsior has its own private beach terrace just below the hotel and multiple sunbathing terraces, giving you secluded spots to relax by the water. The lavish on-site spa offers an indoor pool, sauna, and couples’ treatments for unwinding together.
- Fine Dining: You’ll find gourmet dining on site – Prora restaurant serves fresh Adriatic seafood and local wines in an atmospheric waterside setting. There’s also a stylish piano bar for evening cocktails.
- Prime Location: Sitting just minutes from Ploče Gate, Excelsior allows you to wander Dubrovnik’s Old Town by day, then retreat to peaceful luxury by night. It’s no surprise kings, queens, and Hollywood royals have chosen this hotel over the years.
Villa Dubrovnik
For an ultra-exclusive honeymoon stay, Villa Dubrovnik is a dream come true. Perched on a cliff in the prestigious St. Jacob’s area, this boutique hotel has just 56 rooms and feels like a private sanctuary. Every suite and room faces the Adriatic Sea with breathtaking views of Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik’s Old City walls – imagine waking up to the sight of red-tiled rooftops and the azure sea from your bed. The hotel’s modern design harmonizes with its natural surroundings, wrapped in gardens of pine and bougainvillea. It’s about a 15-minute walk (or quick boat ride) from the Old Town, offering honeymooners splendid tranquility just outside the bustling center.
- Romance & Luxury: Villa Dubrovnik is renowned for bespoke service and absolute privacy. They even provide a complimentary Venetian-style boat shuttle that ferries guests to and from the Old Town harbor – a delightfully romantic way to arrive for dinner in the city. Many suites feature private terraces or even outdoor Jacuzzis, perfect for couples.
- Amenities: Enjoy the indoor-outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea, a luxurious spa, and the scenic rooftop Prosciutto & Wine Bar, where you can sip Dalmatian wines while gazing at the sunset over Dubrovnik. Fine dining is available at Pjerin restaurant, which offers creative Mediterranean cuisine with a side of stunning sea views.
- Why Honeymooners Love It: Villa Dubrovnik has a “wow” factor for a luxury honeymoon in Dubrovnik – from the moment you’re welcomed with champagne in your room to the romantic dinner-for-two arrangements. Its intimate size ensures every couple feels like VIP guests, and the panoramic views make for envy-inducing photos.
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
If you’re drawn to Old World grandeur, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik delivers historic charm just outside the city walls. Housed in a beautifully restored 1897 building, this hotel fuses period elegance with modern comforts. It’s steps from Pile Gate, the main entrance to Old Town, so you can easily wander the ancient streets and return to relax in minutes. Many rooms offer views of Dubrovnik’s iconic red rooftops or the Lovrijenac Fortress across the way. The Hilton’s location and 5-star service make it a favorite for honeymooners who want to be close to the action while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
- Romantic Highlights: The hotel’s terrace bar is a gem – enjoy a glass of Dalmatian wine with a view of the Adriatic Sea and sunset-painted sky, all framed by medieval fortresses. Inside, the décor combines classic and contemporary, with high ceilings and elegant furnishings that set a romantic atmosphere.
- Amenities: There’s a full-service spa and health club including an indoor pool, sauna, and massage services, so couples can indulge in relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The on-site restaurant, Imperial Terrace, serves Mediterranean dishes which you can enjoy al fresco with a panorama of Old Town’s walls.
- Prime Location: Being less than 500 meters from Pile Gate means you can explore Dubrovnik on foot at your leisure. Walk the Old Town’s cobbled streets by day, then pop back to the Hilton for a cooling dip in the pool or a rest in the Executive Lounge. In the evenings, the gentle glow of city lights and live piano music in the lounge set a wonderfully romantic mood.
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik
For couples who want resort-style luxury with easy city access, Rixos Premium Dubrovnik offers the best of both worlds. This stylish 5-star resort sits along the Adriatic coast just outside the Old Town – about a 15-minute scenic walk or quick taxi ride away. Rixos Premium is known for its modern elegance and extensive amenities that will spoil honeymooners. From its cliffside infinity pool to a top-notch spa, you’ll have plenty of ways to relax and enjoy each other’s company with the Adriatic as your backdrop.
- Sea & Spa: The resort’s design capitalizes on stunning sea views – whether you’re in your room, at the pool, or dining, you’ll gaze out on endless blue waters. Rooms are sleek and spacious, most with private balconies overlooking the Adriatic. The Rixos Royal Spa is a highlight, featuring a Turkish hammam (bath), indoor pool, and special couples’ treatment packages.
- Culinary Delights: You won’t need to go far for excellent food. The hotel offers multiple on-site restaurants serving everything from Mediterranean specialties to international cuisine. Enjoy a romantic dinner on the terrace, then head to the bar for cocktails with live music.
- Why Couples Choose Rixos: If you seek a luxury honeymoon Dubrovnik experience with a resort vibe, Rixos is ideal. You can lounge by the panoramic outdoor pool or on the sun deck by day, then venture into Old Town for evening strolls. It’s a large hotel but still feels romantic – especially if you book a suite with a private whirlpool or opt for one of their honeymoon packages (which can include perks like in-room champagne and private excursions). Plus, being slightly removed from the center means a bit more tranquility and space to breathe, which many couples appreciate after the crowds of Old Town.
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
Set on the lush Lapad Peninsula, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace is a seafront haven tailor-made for honeymooners who love sun and sea. This award-winning 5-star hotel is built into the cliffs overlooking the Elaphiti Islands, providing a dramatic backdrop of the Adriatic at every turn. Each room comes with a private balcony and sweeping sea view – you’ll wake up to turquoise waters and end each day with a spectacular sunset from your balcony. Though it’s about a 10-minute drive from Old Town, the hotel feels like its own tranquil world, surrounded by pines and crystal-clear coves below.
- Romantic Highlights: Sunset is magical here. The hotel’s outdoor pool and beachfront area face west, offering an unbeatable front-row seat to golden sunsets over the Adriatic. There’s also a seaside walking path if you’d like an evening stroll along the shore. Dubrovnik Palace even arranges special private dining on the beach for couples (think lanterns, sea breeze, and a personal waiter – pure romance!).
- Amenities: Honeymooners can indulge in the on-site spa, which includes a couples’ massage room and an indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling sea views. For active couples, there are tennis courts and nearby nature trails through Velika Petka park. The hotel also offers a free shuttle into Old Town for guests, making it easy to balance serene beach time with historic sightseeing.
- Dining: With multiple restaurants, you can enjoy variety without leaving the property. Maslina Tavern (an award-winning eatery) serves Dalmatian and international dishes on a romantic terrace, while the pool bar is great for light lunches and cocktails. Don’t miss a candlelit dinner at the rooftop restaurant – the panoramic views of moonlit seas will be a highlight of your trip. (Tip: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace’s “Resort Romance” package includes perks like in-room champagne, a romantic seaside dinner, and spa access – perfect for honeymooners.)
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
True to its name, Hotel Bellevue offers a “beautiful view” – and so much more – for couples seeking a boutique luxury escape. This 5-star hotel is dramatically set on a 30-meter cliffside overlooking Miramare Bay, a secluded turquoise cove just outside Dubrovnik’s center. From the moment you arrive, the view takes your breath away: the Adriatic stretches out before you, and the hotel’s glass-wall lobby perfectly frames the scenery. Each chic room has floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can gaze at the sea from bed. And when you’re ready to explore, the Old Town is only a 10–15 minute walk or a quick cab ride away, making Bellevue a convenient yet private love nest.
- Romantic Highlights: Hotel Bellevue has a rare feature in Dubrovnik – its own private pebble beach nestled at the base of the cliff. A lift carries guests down through the rock to this hidden beach, where you can swim in the clear Adriatic or sunbathe on loungers exclusively for hotel guests. It’s an idyllic spot for couples to spend a lazy afternoon by the water, away from the crowds. Afterward, unwind at the luxury spa, which includes an indoor pool with a cave-like design, sauna, and steam room.
- Dining: The hotel’s flagship restaurant, Vapor, is often acclaimed as one of Dubrovnik’s best. It offers creative fine dining with an emphasis on local seafood – all served on a terrace with panoramic sea views. For a more casual bite or cocktails, Nevera Beach Restaurant (seasonal) lets you dine almost at sea level by that private cove. Imagine a candlelit dinner with waves gently lapping nearby – pure honeymoon bliss.
- The Atmosphere: Stylish and intimate, Bellevue feels like a secret retreat carved into the cliff. Honeymooners love the tranquil ambiance and attentive service. You’ll feel worlds away from the hustle, yet the hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Old Town’s gates, so it’s easy to switch between romantic seclusion and urban exploration. For a memorable splurge, book the Presidential suite – it comes with a huge terrace and jacuzzi overlooking the bay!
Hotel More
Tucked in the greenery of the Lapad Bay area, Hotel More is a boutique 5-star property that offers a unique blend of romance and character. This hotel is actually adults-only (14+), ensuring a peaceful environment perfect for honeymooners. Though smaller in scale, Hotel More packs in luxurious amenities – and even a bit of whimsy – most famously with its Cave Bar More, a natural cave turned into a quirky-chic bar beneath the hotel. Sipping a cocktail in a dimly lit sea cave while waves echo softly is an experience you won’t find elsewhere, and it sets a magical tone for your stay.
- Romantic Highlights: The hotel’s standout feature is indeed the Cave Bar, which has been named one of the world’s coolest bars by international media. It’s a must for sunset happy hour or a nightcap – the atmosphere is cozy and enchanting. Above ground, Hotel More has a small private beach area and outdoor pool overlooking the bay. With far fewer guests than the big resorts, you’ll often have these spaces nearly to yourselves. Many rooms come with whirlpool bathtubs and balconies with sea views, adding to the romance.
- Dining: There are two on-site restaurants: Restaurant More (fine dining with Mediterranean cuisine) and Restaurant Tramuntana (a lovely spot for breakfast or lunch by the sea). The food is excellent – fresh Croatian ingredients and seafood take center stage. Don’t miss trying their homemade pastries or the extensive wine list featuring Croatian vintages.
- Location & Vibe: Located in the Lapad peninsula about 3 km from Old Town, Hotel More offers a quiet, upscale neighborhood feel. A scenic coastal walking path connects you to other parts of Lapad, including Sunset Beach and various cafés, which is great for evening walks. You can easily catch a taxi or the hotel can arrange a shuttle to Old Town when you want to sightsee. Overall, if you’re a couple who enjoys boutique hotels with character, Hotel More provides a romantic, tranquil base and a flavor of local charm – all with that gorgeous sea view backdrop.
Honeymoon Tips for Dubrovnik Couples
Planning a honeymoon in Dubrovnik is exciting – here are some tips to make it truly unforgettable:
- Time Your Trip: Consider visiting in late spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). The weather is warm and pleasant, and you’ll avoid the peak-season tourist crush. These shoulder seasons offer a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples. (July and August have beautiful beach weather but expect big crowds and higher prices, while winter is quiet and cozy but many resort facilities may be limited.)
- Mix City and Seaside: Dubrovnik’s Old Town is enchanting, but can be busy. For the best experience, mix a stay near Old Town (for example, a couple of nights at Hilton Imperial or Excelsior for convenience) with a few nights at a seaside resort like Dubrovnik Palace or Rixos. This way, you enjoy both the historic city vibe and a resort relaxation vibe. Many couples split their stay to get the best of both worlds.
- Romantic Activities: Take advantage of the many couples’ experiences Dubrovnik offers. For instance, book a private sunset cruise around the city walls – watching the sun dip while you’re on a boat is pure romance. Ride the cable car up Mount Srđ for a panoramic view of Dubrovnik and share a toast at the top. Wander the ancient city walls early in the morning or near sunset when they’re less crowded, for stunning views without the rush. And consider a day trip to Lokrum Island – a short 15-minute ferry away – where you can picnic in botanical gardens or find a hidden cove for just the two of you.
- Dine with a View: Dubrovnik has no shortage of romantic restaurants. Waterfront dining is a must for honeymooners – make a reservation at a seaside restaurant (many hotels have great options, or try popular spots like Proto or Nautika in Old Town). Plan at least one special sunset dinner overlooking the Adriatic. Pro tip: ask your hotel concierge for help securing the best table; they often can arrange prime seating or added touches (like flowers or a celebratory dessert).
- Capture the Memories: The city is incredibly photogenic. If you want professional photos, consider hiring a local photographer for a short honeymoon photoshoot around Old Town’s most scenic spots (the fortress walls, quaint alleys, and panoramic terraces make gorgeous backdrops). It can be a fun experience and you’ll go home with frame-worthy shots. If that’s not your style, at least wake up early one day to catch the soft morning light for your own photos – you’ll have the normally crowded streets to yourselves.
- Relax and Enjoy: Above all, build in downtime. It’s easy to fill your days with tours and activities, but a honeymoon should be about enjoying each other’s company. Take a leisurely siesta at your hotel, enjoy the spa, or simply sit on your balcony with local wine and watch the sunset. Dubrovnik’s beauty will do the rest. And don’t hesitate to let your hotel know you’re on a honeymoon – many of these hotels love to pamper newlyweds with little surprises like room upgrades, champagne, or flower petal turn-downs when available.
Dubrovnik truly has all the ingredients for a storybook honeymoon: centuries-old architecture, romantic sea vistas, and world-class hospitality. Whether you choose a historic boutique hotel within the city or a lavish resort by the coast, you’ll find that romantic places to stay in Dubrovnik are in abundance. Each of these hotels will cocoon you in comfort and beauty, setting the stage for cherished newlywed memories. Here’s to love and adventure on the Adriatic – sretan put (happy travels)!