The best museums in Dubrovnik

Beyond the famous walls, Dubrovnik's museums tell the story of a small seafaring republic that punched far above its weight — and of the much more recent siege the city survived. Here are the ones worth visiting.

The Rector's Palace

The Gothic-Renaissance Rector's Palace (Knežev dvor) was the seat of the Republic of Ragusa's elected rector, who lived locked inside for his one-month term. Now the Cultural History Museum, it's the best place to understand how this independent city-state governed itself for 450 years.

War Photo Limited

A powerful, unflinching gallery of conflict photojournalism, with a permanent exhibition on the 1990s war in the region alongside changing shows. War Photo Limited is the most affecting museum in the city — not always easy, always worth it.

The Maritime Museum & the war on Srđ

Inside the St John Fortress, the Maritime Museum charts Ragusa's trading fleet and seafaring power. High above the city on Mount Srđ, the Homeland War Museum in Fort Imperial documents the 1991–92 siege — and rewards you with the finest view over the old town.

The old pharmacy & the Red History Museum

The Franciscan Monastery houses one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe, operating since 1317. For a complete change of era, the Red History Museum out in Gruž explores everyday life in socialist Yugoslavia — engaging and refreshingly un-touristy.

See our boutique stays in Dubrovnik for a base, and our Dubrovnik on a budget guide for keeping costs down.