The former power base of the old Dubrovnik Republic has survived a turbulent past to emerge as one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.

During its long history, the Rector’s Palace has been blown up, devastated by fires and damaged by earthquakes. But the building has survived, although its appearance has changed over the years as it has been remodeled, restored and expanded. There were major reconstructions in 1435 and 1463 following gunpowder explosions, and again after the earthquake of 1667.

The Rector’s Palace used to be the seat of government in the old Dubrovnik Republic and housed the offices of state, dungeons and a gunpowder store. The rector was the elected leader of the government. During his one-month term he wasn’t allowed to leave the palace except on official business.

Today, the building houses the Cultural Historical Museum with thousands of objects from the late 16th to the 19th centuries.

When you walk through the front entrance, look up to see the well-preserved inscription above the door. The words are in Latin and were intended to remind the rector’s of their purpose. They read “obliti privatorum publica curate,” which translates as “forgetting your private business, concern yourselves with public affairs.”

Visit the exhibition halls on the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor to see furniture, textiles, paintings, medals, weapons, coats of arms and coins from the Dubrovnik Republic. Walk into rooms decorated in period style with furniture from the 18th century.

As you make your way around the palace, soak up its architectural details. Among the many standout features are the Baroque staircase in the atrium and the Gothic-style 15th-century fountain, also in the atrium. Admire the capitals, the elaborate crowning features at the top of the building’s many columns.

The palace’s atrium has superb acoustics. If you visit Dubrovnik in the summer months, book a seat at one of the concerts held here. Find details of performances on the official websites of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival and the Dubrovnik Tourist Board.

The Rector’s Palace is in the Old Town, which is a pedestrian-only area, but you can get to this part of the city on a public bus from the airport, outer suburbs or harbor. The palace and museum are open daily and there is an entry fee.

Plan a trip to see Rector's Palace

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Soleil Palace

Dubrovnik Old Town

￥385,437

per person

Dec 24 - Dec 31

found 3 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Dubrovnik (DBV)

10/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)

San Rocco Palace

Dubrovnik Old Town

￥488,959

per person

Dec 24 - Dec 31

found 3 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Dubrovnik (DBV)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (83 reviews)

Location was perfect! Right in the center of town, yet still quiet and tucked away from the heavy foot traffic. There were plenty of restaurants, shops, and sightseeing literally steps away. The check-in process was smooth and easy. We only stayed for one night and traveled with an overnight bag. I imagine the stairs could be a little challenging with a large checked suitcase, but honestly, that’s pretty common when traveling throughout Europe. I’ve learned to travel light whenever possible! A carry-on would be very manageable on the stairs if you’re in decent shape. The property had the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern décor. Breakfast was great and delivered directly to our room at the time we requested, which was such a nice touch. They also stored our bags for us after checkout so we could continue exploring without having to carry them around. The concierge was very responsive and helpful throughout our stay. Everything was great—we had no complaints at all. I would absolutely stay here again and would happily recommend it to friends and family visiting Dubrovnik!

Reviewed on Oct 5, 2026

Cap rooms

Dubrovnik Old Town

￥503,489

per person

Dec 24 - Dec 31

found 3 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Dubrovnik (DBV)

9.4/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)

The location is outstanding, right outside the rector's palace. The host responded promptly to issues. The room is reasonable size, the bed comfortable. The lighting in the room is atrocious, the overhead fixture gives very little light.

Reviewed on Oct 1, 2026