St. Lawrence Fortress Tickets & Tours & Informataion January 2025

St. Lawrence Fortress

St. Lawrence Fortress, also known as Fort Lovrijenac, is a magnificent stone fortress perched atop a 37-meter-high cliff just outside Dubrovnik’s western city walls. Often referred to as "Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar," the fortress was built in the 11th century to defend the city from Venetian invasions. Over the centuries, it became an important military and strategic stronghold. Today, Fort Lovrijenac is a popular tourist attraction, known for its stunning views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the Adriatic Sea, as well as its use as a filming location for popular movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.

The Basics

Fort Lovrijenac is triangular in shape and has three levels, with thick walls facing the sea and thinner walls facing the city to prevent internal rebellion. Inside, visitors will find a courtyard, a small chapel, and several rooms that once served as barracks. The highlight of a visit is the panoramic view from the top, offering unbeatable vistas of the Old Town, the city walls, and the Adriatic coastline. Entrance is included in the city walls ticket, making it easy to combine both visits.

Things to Know Before You Go

The climb to Fort Lovrijenac involves a series of steep steps, so wear comfortable shoes.

Bring water, especially in the summer, as there are limited facilities inside the fortress.

The fortress often hosts cultural events, including plays and concerts, particularly during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, guided tours are available that highlight the fortress's role as the Red Keep.

How to Get There

Fort Lovrijenac is located just outside Pile Gate. After passing through Pile Gate, turn left and follow the path along the coast for a few minutes. The entrance is at the top of a short but steep staircase. If you’re coming from other parts of Dubrovnik, buses that stop at Pile Gate will get you close to the fortress.

When to Get There

Fort Lovrijenac is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer season. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Visiting around sunset provides spectacular lighting for photos of the Old Town and the sea. If you’re interested in attending an event, check the Dubrovnik Summer Festival schedule in advance.

Day Trips from Dubrovnik

After exploring Fort Lovrijenac, head back to Pile Gate and start a walk along the city walls for more amazing views of the fortress from different angles. You can also relax at Buza Bar, a cliffside spot nearby, or take a short boat ride to Lokrum Island for a swim. For those interested in local history, a guided walking tour of the Old Town starting from Pile Gate is a great way to learn more about Dubrovnik’s fascinating past. Many kayaking tours around the city walls also offer a view of Fort Lovrijenac from the water, adding a unique perspective to your visit.