Fort St. John
A historic fortress guarding Dubrovnik's harbor, now home to a maritime museum and aquarium, offering stunning city and sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Fort St. John
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic fortress guarding Dubrovnik's harbor, now home to a maritime museum and aquarium, offering stunning city and sea views.
"The view of the city from the sea is ... magnificent - like you're in Game of Thrones."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The fortress has uneven surfaces and stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable exploration.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the fortress are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maritime Museum & Aquarium
Interior of St. John's Fortress
Explore centuries of maritime history and discover diverse marine life in this fascinating museum and aquarium.
Fortress Walls & Views
Exterior of St. John's Fortress
Marvel at the imposing architecture and soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and sea.
Game of Thrones Filming Location
Various points within the fortress
Walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters at this iconic filming site for the popular series.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating the Fort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Travel
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The fortress has uneven surfaces and stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable exploration.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the fortress are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget your camera!
How to get around in fort St. John without a car
Going to Fort St. John for the summer, what are some things I must try?
⏳ Check for Construction
Some areas might be under renovation. It's wise to check for any ongoing construction before your visit.
🚢 Explore the Harbor
The Dubrovnik Old Town Port nearby is a vibrant spot with great views and boat trip opportunities.
Sightseeing in Fort St John
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
The fortress has uneven surfaces and stairs, so wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable exploration.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the fortress are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget your camera!
⏳ Check for Construction
Some areas might be under renovation. It's wise to check for any ongoing construction before your visit.
🚢 Explore the Harbor
The Dubrovnik Old Town Port nearby is a vibrant spot with great views and boat trip opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort St. John is praised for its magnificent views and its historical significance, offering a glimpse into Dubrovnik's maritime past with its museum and aquarium. However, some visitors have raised concerns about recent restoration work, feeling it detracts from the original stonework and potentially compromises the structure's long-term integrity.
"The fortress was built in 1346 under the name of the "mule" fortress (Tvrđava od mula). Later, the Gundulić fortress was built nearby. Both fortresses were connected by towers in 1522, and since 1557 they have formed the shape we can see today. The interior of the fortress originally housed a large gunpowder warehouse.
The city harbor was defended on the north side by the smaller St. Luke's fortress, while on the south side this role was played by the St. John's fortress. Initially, a chain was stretched between the two fortresses to prevent unwanted ships from entering the harbor. The chain was there until 1484, when the Kaše breakwater was built.
Today, the premises of the St. John's fortress preserve a significant part of the cultural treasures from the Republic era. It also houses the collections of the Maritime Museum and Aquarium and the Institute for the Sea and Coast.
It looks powerful and strong, and when viewed from the sea it leaves a magnificent impression. The view of the city from the sea is ... magnificent - like you're in Game of Thrones."
Kristina Tina K
"The only words I can use to describe what has happened here are archeological travesty. Basically it is my view that it has been an incorrect decision to jetwash out the many layers of old sealant around the fortresses original stonework. Then to have re-sealed the stonework with plain concrete, worse still it looks over concreted around the stones so some parts of the fortress now look like a flat concrete blob. The situation gets even worse still, as there also seems to be a concrete wash either deliberately or a consequence of the over concreting on some of the original stone work. The likely consequence of this will be that moisture will become trapped in the stonework & damp will be held within the walls & the structure will start to decay from within over time!! I have enclosed some photos to illustrate my findings. As I have mentioned, asthetically the structure now looks like a concrete block, some of the natural colour of the stonework (mainly brown) is gone in places. As is some of the original texture of the old stonework."
dan dare
"It’s on the city walls walk, but it’s under construction when we visited on Friday 29th August 2025. We only can walk pass it."
貝瑞克（Markpigpapa）
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort St. John is located within the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik. You can reach it by walking from the Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. If arriving by car, park in the designated garages outside the Old Town and walk in.
The Old Town itself is pedestrian-only. Buses stop near the Pile Gate and Ploče Gate, from where you can walk to the fortress.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the Old Town walls. You'll need to park outside and walk.
Many visitors arrive by boat or ferry to the Dubrovnik Old Town Port, which offers magnificent views of the fortress from the water.
Yes, there are several paid parking garages located just outside the Old Town walls, such as the Garage Parking near Pile Gate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to the interior of Fort St. John, which houses the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, requires a ticket.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance to the fortress or at the Dubrovnik Tourist Board. It's advisable to check their official website for online booking options.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website of the Maritime Museum and Aquarium for the most up-to-date information.
Often, Dubrovnik offers city walls passes or combined tickets that might include entry to Fort St. John and other historical sites. Inquire about these options.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. Check the ticketing information for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the Maritime Museum, showcasing Dubrovnik's seafaring history, and an Aquarium with local marine species.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum, aquarium, and enjoy the fortress ramparts.
Guided tours may be available, especially for groups. Inquire at the ticket counter or check the museum's website for schedules.
Due to its historic nature, some parts of the fortress have uneven terrain and stairs, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues.
The ramparts offer incredible panoramic views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. The harbor views are also spectacular.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and protected areas. Check local regulations before flying.
You can capture stunning wide-angle shots of the Old Town, the harbor, and the surrounding islands, as well as detailed shots of the fortress architecture.
The highest points of the fortress offer the most expansive and iconic views of Dubrovnik.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views, while a zoom lens can be useful for details. A polarizing filter can enhance the sea and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of walking and uneven surfaces, so ensure children are wearing comfortable shoes. While the historical aspects might be more engaging for older kids, the aquarium provides a universally appealing attraction. Consider a combined ticket if available to make the most of your visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. The harbor views are also exceptional, especially with the boats and ferries adding life to the scene. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the fortress itself from various angles, both from within and from the sea.
🏰 History Buffs
Pay attention to the architectural details and imagine the strategic importance of this site. While some restoration methods have drawn criticism, the historical significance of the fortress remains undeniable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the fortress is a repository of cultural treasures from the Republic era. It houses the collections of the Maritime Museum, detailing Dubrovnik's rich seafaring past, and an Aquarium showcasing local marine life. The integration of these modern attractions within the ancient walls offers a unique visitor experience, blending history with natural science.
However, some visitors have expressed concerns about recent restoration efforts. There are critiques regarding the use of concrete in sealing stonework, with worries that it might trap moisture and lead to long-term decay. The aesthetic impact of these repairs has also been noted, with some feeling it detracts from the original character of the stonework.
The Maritime Museum and Aquarium
Adjacent to the museum is the Aquarium, offering a glimpse into the diverse underwater world of the Adriatic Sea. It houses a variety of local fish, crustaceans, and other marine creatures, providing an educational and engaging experience for all ages. The combination of historical artifacts and live marine exhibits makes Fort St. John a multifaceted destination.
While the collections are significant, it's worth noting that the aquarium is relatively small. However, its integration within the fortress adds a unique charm, and it's a pleasant way to spend an hour learning about the region's marine biodiversity.
Views and Photography Opportunities
Many visitors describe the views as being straight out of a fantasy series, drawing comparisons to popular culture like 'Game of Thrones,' which famously filmed scenes in Dubrovnik. The imposing stone walls and the expansive sea create a dramatic and picturesque setting, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
For the best photographic results, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast landscapes. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and capture the soft morning light, while late afternoon offers the warm glow of the setting sun.
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