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Dubrovnik City Walls

Dubrovnik, Neretva County  >  Croatia

An unusual but worth recommending place for observing swifts and swallows.

Added* by Krzysztof
Most recent update 24 april 2026

Description

I will not write about Dubrovnik, its history, the series and films that were shot here, and the wave of tourists flooding the city.

Dubrovnik, the stone city and birds? Yes!

If you're ever there, be sure to climb the city walls. Walking around, you'll have the opportunity to observe swifts and swallows chasing insects. The view is incredible, with birds flying at dizzying speed from every direction, singly and in flocks. As the city walls rise far above the city's buildings, you'll see birds above, below, and at eye level.

If observing these "flying lightning bolts" is not enough for you, the city walls and their surroundings will also allow you to observe other species listed below.

It is worth looking at the cliff near Gradec Park, behind the hedge of the parking lot on the hill there is a good chance of encountering a Modrokos.

I visited this place in the spring and it was a truly enjoyable experience (not just for birdwatching). I don't have any experience at other times of the year. However, I get the impression that it can be incredibly crowded and blisteringly hot in the summer.

Details

Access

Walking along the walls is a two km trek. The path leads up and down, and you'll climb a lot of stairs along the way. Dubrovnik is a sunny and often hot place. It's worth bringing a hat and a bottle of water.

Terrain and Habitat

City/village , Sea , Canyon/cliff

Conditions

No shadow , Open landscape , Hilly

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

Spring , Summer , Autumn

Best time to visit

Spring , Spring migration

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

Unfortunately, climbing the walls in Dubrovnik is quite expensive - it's the city's biggest touristic attraction, after all - around € 40 (April 2026). It's worth purchasing the Dubrovnik Pass, which will help you optimize your expenses somewhat.

I don't recommend driving around the city. It's best to park your car outside the city center and get around on foot or by public transportation.

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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