Shopping in Dubrovnik
What to Buy:
- Lavender Products: Croatian lavender (from islands like Hvar) in sachets, essential oils, soaps, and cosmetics. Gundulić Market offers authentic locally-made products. Avoid mass-produced tourist versions.
- Olive Oil: Premium Dalmatian extra virgin olive oil from local producers. Look for protected designation of origin (PDO) labels. Purchase at markets or specialty shops, not souvenir stores.
- Wine: Local varieties including Plavac Mali (red), Pošip, Grk, Malvazija (whites). Wine shops in Old Town offer tastings and expert advice. Pelješac wines highly regarded.
- Truffles: Istrian truffles and truffle products (oils, pastes, spreads) available at gourmet shops. Expensive but authentic Croatian delicacy.
- Rakija: Traditional fruit brandy - grape, plum, herb-infused varieties. Purchase quality brands from liquor shops, not tourist traps.
- Figs: Dried figs, fig jam, and fig liqueur (produced locally). Excellent gift item and regional specialty.
- Jewelry: Konavle traditional jewelry featuring elaborate silver filigree work. Also coral and maritime-inspired pieces.
- Lace: Hand-made Croatian lace, particularly from Konavle region. Authentic pieces are expensive - verify origin.
- Licitar Hearts: Colorful decorated honey cookies, traditional Croatian folk craft (though more associated with northern Croatia).
- Sea Salt: Ston salt from historic salt pans, considered among world's finest. Available in various preparations.
Shopping Areas:
Gundulić Market (Gundulićeva Poljana): Morning market (7am-1pm) for fresh produce, lavender, olive oil, honey, local cheese, handicrafts. Authentic atmosphere with reasonable prices. Best time: early morning for full selection.
Stradun: Main street lined with shops selling jewelry, clothing, souvenirs. Higher prices due to prime location. Luža Boutique and other stores offer quality Croatian products.
Gruž Market: Local market near port selling fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, flowers. More authentic and cheaper than Old Town. Open mornings, best for experiencing daily life.
Od Puča Street: Parallel to Stradun with smaller boutiques, art galleries, craft shops. Less crowded with more unique offerings.
Shopping Centers: Gruž area has Konzum supermarkets for groceries. Avenue Mall (outside city center) offers international brands, though not recommended for souvenir shopping.
Bargaining: Not customary in established shops and markets. Prices generally fixed. However, purchasing multiple items at markets might warrant polite request for small discount. Never aggressive bargaining - Croatians find this disrespectful.
Tips:
- Verify authenticity - many "Croatian" products are imports. Ask about origin.
- Compare prices between shops, especially for expensive items like jewelry, wine, olive oil.
- Shop at markets early for best selection before tourist buses arrive.
- Keep receipts - some items eligible for VAT refund if spending exceeds 740 Kuna.
- Avoid shops immediately at cruise ship docking areas - highest markups.
- Credit cards widely accepted, but markets prefer cash (Kuna or Euro).