I’ve visited Dubrovnik many times, first as a tour guide during my student years, and recently for my photography workshops. This small Adriatic town in Croatia is a gem for photography! However, in recent years, popular TV series, films, and cruise ships have brought a surge in tourism. As a result, photography has become more challenging due to the crowds, as well as the difficulty of finding accommodation and dining options. I grew frustrated running workshops during tourist season, so when family and friends wanted to visit, I suggested we travel in the offseason, during the New Year holidays. Read on for my thoughts, photography advice, and photos.
We drove directly from Slovenia to Dubrovnik, enjoying a pleasant and relaxing journey filled with scenic views. We crossed the newly built Pelješac Bridge for the first time. The timing was perfect—the last rays of the sun illuminated the bridge beautifully, so we stopped to take photos. An incredible architectural sight on the stunning Adriatic coast!
Upon arrival, we parked in the garage of a hotel that was closed for the offseason—for free! This was the first benefit of traveling in the offseason. We then walked to the old town and to the apartments where I usually accommodate my groups. It was a pleasant stroll, and the city was decorated with Christmas lights.
We spent the next three days leisurely exploring the city.
Photographing Dubrovnik in Offseason
Photographing in Dubrovnik during the offseason offers some significant benefits. The most obvious is the reduction in crowds. Dubrovnik has become so popular in recent years that photography in the old town has become increasingly frustrating due to hordes of tour groups, cruise ships, fully booked restaurants and accommodations, gridlocked roads, and stressed locals.
In the offseason, these crowds disappear. It’s easy to find a restaurant table and a nice apartment within the city walls. Getting in and out of the city by car or finding a parking spot also becomes much simpler. Although many hotels and apartments are closed, it’s still easier to find a place to stay, often at a much better price! All this makes visiting the city a much more pleasant experience.
From a photography perspective, visiting in winter has additional benefits. Fewer crowds are advantageous, but the best aspect is the angle of the rising and setting sun. Most of the year, the sun rises and sets behind the mountain, leaving the city in shade during the best light. In winter, however, the sun rises and sets over the sea. This makes a significant difference for photography!
There are some drawbacks as well. The first thing I noticed was the scaffolding. Many of the landmarks, historic streets, and buildings were undergoing renovations. Additionally, Stradun, the main street of the old town, was filled with Christmas stalls and a concert stage. I had to focus on other parts of the city that were not overly “decorated,” but these were plentiful and easy to find.
We also encountered some difficulty finding open restaurants, as many close in the offseason, including some of my favorites. However, these are minor inconveniences compared to the benefits of fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience!
Photos of Dubrovnik Offseason
Conclusion
Our four-day trip to Dubrovnik during the New Year holidays went by quickly, and everyone had a great time. I enjoyed the city much more than during the tourist season, and my family and friends loved their first experience too.
If you plan on visiting Croatia, the offseason is an excellent time to go. Places like Dubrovnik can be experienced in a much nicer, more relaxed way. And if you are a photographer, here’s a little secret: I’ve created a Photographer’s Guide to Dubrovnik over the years. It contains most of the best photo locations in the city and across Croatia (and around the world).
Thanks for reading and see you around soon!
