Dubrovnik: The Perfect Event Destination

Earlier this month we were lucky enough to attend a familiarisation trip to Dubrovnik hosted by Hosmark Hotels on behalf of Valamar Hotels and Resorts.

Nestled on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is more than just a postcard-perfect medieval city. With its iconic limestone streets, baroque architecture, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik has become a world-renowned tourist hotspot with the Game of Thrones fanbase to thank for it’s contribution – but it’s also building a reputation as a premier location for hosting events of all kinds.

Travel

Dubrovnik International Airport connects the city with major European hubs, and the port welcomes cruise ships and private yachts alike. Yet, the city retains a sense of exclusivity that makes every visitor feel like they’ve discovered something truly special.

There has been a significant investment in sustainable infrastructure, such as electric buses and charging stations for electric vehicles. The ‘Dubrovnik Card’ integrates public transportation with attraction admissions, promoting car-free exploration and reducing emissions.

Event venues

Though rich in history, Dubrovnik is fully equipped with modern amenities. The city features a range of contemporary conference facilities, luxury hotels with dedicated event services, and an efficient transport network. The Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, President Hotel and Argosy Hotel provide state-of-the-art spaces for conferences, corporate retreats, banquets and incentives.

These three hotels are conveniently located within walking distance of each other and can be used in tandem to accommodate larger groups and the use of different facilities and event space options. The President Hotel is located right on the water and features an exclusive beach club with breathtaking views.

From high-profile corporate gatherings to intimate weddings and cultural festivals, Dubrovnik offers versatile spaces to suit any vision. Key venues include:

Revelin Fortress – a striking 15th-century fort turned event venue, perfect for concerts, fashion shows, or exclusive parties
Lazareti – the only fully preserved quarantine complex on the European side of the Mediterranean, under the protection of UNESCO since 1994 with a range of event spaces both indoors and outdoors
Franciscan monastery – the Franciscan Church and Monastery is a large complex belonging to the Order of the Friars Minor. It consists of a monastery, a church, a library and a pharmacy
Modern Art Gallery – the museum offers a terrace with perfect sea views for special dinners and events

Group activities and incentive ideas

Croatia’s rich culinary traditions are on full display in Dubrovnik. From seaside seafood feasts to Michelin-recognized dining experiences, the local cuisine can be tailored to any event. Paired with excellent Croatian wines and professional hospitality services, your guests are sure to leave with lasting memories. Some special venues include:

Šapro Olive Oil Mill – a family run mill set in the Konavle valley offering dining experiences
Villa Banac in Cavtat – a stunning location with a very special art collection
Banje Beach Club – Dubrovnik’s most iconic beachfront destination, located just steps from the Old Town
Višnjica – this impressive outdoor complex can easily transform and it is suitable for organizing all kinds of events

The landscape lends itself perfectly to a vast array of activities. Such options include:

Renault 4 driving – run by the same family who own the Šapro Mill, there is no better way to explore the Konavle valley!
Cable cars – take to the skies for the best view of this stunning landscape with dining options at the top
Kayaking – navigate the waters beneath the city walls in a friendly kayaking competition
Jet skis – engage in thrilling jet ski rides along Dubrovnik’s coastline
Boat trips – embark on full-day private sailing tours to nearby islands like Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep. These trips offer secluded beaches, team-building activities, and opportunities for swimming and volleyball
For those wanting to make a night of it, there are plenty of late night venues including the renowned Club Revelin

Sustainability

Dubrovnik is actively pursuing sustainability across various sectors, aiming to balance its rich cultural heritage with responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. For example:

Plastic reduction and circular economy

Dubrovnik has adopted a comprehensive action plan to reduce plastic pollution, targeting a 55% reduction in plastic waste by 2025. This includes eliminating single-use plastics in public institutions and events, enhancing waste collection systems, and promoting compostable alternatives. The city is also developing a Reuse Center to facilitate recycling and reuse practices.

Source: City of Dubrovnik adopts first plan of action to reduction of plastic pollution

Sustainable tourism management

To mitigate the impacts of mass tourism, Dubrovnik has implemented measures such as limiting the number of cruise ship visitors to 5,000 per day and reducing restaurant seating in the Old Town. These actions aim to alleviate overcrowding and preserve the city’s historical sites.

Source: Dubrovnik Is Clamping Down Harder on Tourist Overcrowding

Carbon-neutral tourism strategy

The city is working towards becoming the Mediterranean’s first carbon-neutral destination by 2030. Initiatives include transitioning municipal buildings to renewable energy, expanding electric public transportation, and promoting eco-friendly accommodations. The “Respect the City” campaign encourages responsible visitor behavior and supports local communities.

Source: Dubrovnik: balancing ancient splendour with sustainable tourism in the pearl of the Adriatic