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Old Town (Stari Grad)
Dubrovnik, Croatia · Neighborhood Guide
Inside the medieval walls — marble streets, Baroque churches, the Stradun promenade, rooftop terraces with sea views. Magical but touristy.
Last updated March 2026
Old Town (Stari Grad) at a Glance
Luxury
Cost Level
€800–€1,800/month for 1-BR (off-season; summer €2,000–€4,000+)
Rent Range
Very safe — walled city with limited entry points, CCTV, and tourist police. Virtually no crime inside the walls.
Safety
40–80 Mbps — medieval stone walls limit signal. Check apartment specifically. Newer renovations have T-Com fibre. Cafés provide backup.
Internet
Who Lives in Old Town (Stari Grad)?
A shrinking number of Croatian residents (most apartments are now Airbnb), boutique hotel owners, restaurant operators, and wealthy seasonal expats. Average age 40–65.
Living in Old Town (Stari Grad) — Practical Details
Walkability
Excellent — car-free walled city. The Stradun (main street) is marble-polished and beautiful. Entirely pedestrian but steep stairs throughout.
Grocery & Food Access
One small convenience store inside the walls. Nearest supermarkets in Gruž (15 min by bus). Most Old Town residents shop in Gruž market.
Getting Around
- Walking: the only option inside the walls
- Bus (Libertas): stops at Pile Gate (west) and Ploče Gate (east)
- Water taxi: to Lokrum Island from the Old Port
- Car: impossible inside; nearest parking at Pile Gate (€3–€5/hour)
Nearby Coworking
- Lazareti Coworking (€180/mo, just outside the walls)
- Café culture: Cogito Coffee, Festival Café inside the walls
Insider Tips for Old Town (Stari Grad)
- 1Walk the city walls (2 km loop, €35) at 8am opening to avoid the heat and cruise-ship crowds
- 2The Stradun at 6am is empty and magical — the only time you'll have it to yourself
- 3Old Town living is extraordinary but impractical for daily life — no cars, no supermarket, narrow stone stairs with groceries
- 4Off-season (October–April) is when Dubrovnik becomes a real city again — prices drop 60%, locals reclaim the streets
FAQ — Old Town (Stari Grad), Dubrovnik
What is Old Town (Stari Grad) like for expats?
Old Town (Stari Grad) is a luxury neighborhood in Dubrovnik. Inside the medieval walls — marble streets, Baroque churches, the Stradun promenade, rooftop terraces with sea views. Magical but touristy. Best for: Those who want the iconic Dubrovnik experience — prepare for summer crowds and premium prices.
How much does it cost to live in Old Town (Stari Grad), Dubrovnik?
Old Town (Stari Grad) is classified as "Luxury" in Dubrovnik. Typical rent: €800–€1,800/month for 1-BR (off-season; summer €2,000–€4,000+). Total monthly budget in Dubrovnik: €1,600–€2,500.
Is Old Town (Stari Grad) safe for expats?
Very safe — walled city with limited entry points, CCTV, and tourist police. Virtually no crime inside the walls.
Who lives in Old Town (Stari Grad)?
A shrinking number of Croatian residents (most apartments are now Airbnb), boutique hotel owners, restaurant operators, and wealthy seasonal expats. Average age 40–65.
Other Neighborhoods in Dubrovnik
Lapad
Mid-RangePeaceful residential peninsula 3 km from Old Town. Tree-lined promenades, Lapad Beach, local restaurants, and a relaxed pace.
Gruž
Budget-FriendlyDubrovnik's port and commercial center. The main market, ferry terminal, and shopping district. Less scenic but very practical.
Ploče
LuxuryUpscale neighborhood east of Old Town walls. Banje Beach, luxury hotels, and stunning views of the city walls and Lokrum Island.
Babin Kuk
Mid-RangeResort-style peninsula near Lapad. Large hotel complexes, Copacabana Beach, and a quieter, more spacious feel.
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