Bar
Buža Bar
The better known of the bars clinging to the rocks outside Dubrovnik's southern walls, reached through a gap in the walls and famous for sunset views.
A craft brewery and taproom in the harbour district of Gruž, serving its own IPA, lager, pale ale and stout among the brewing vats.
Good to know
Dubrovnik Beer Company brought craft brewing to a city better known for wine and cocktails. Its brewery and taproom occupy a utilitarian industrial space on the waterfront in Gruž, the harbour district north-west of the Old Town where ferries and cruise ships dock. The brewery describes itself as a brewery with a soul, and the setting, with gleaming vats behind the bar, makes it clear that the beer is made right here.
The core range has been built around four beers named with local references: Goa IPA, Maestral lager, Fortunal pale ale and Grego stout, the names of the last three echoing the winds of the Adriatic. Seasonal specials and guest beers have also appeared on tap, so check what is pouring when you arrive. If you are new to Croatian craft beer, trying several styles is a good way to begin.
The atmosphere is informal and unpretentious, and Time Out praised the social mix it attracts. The outdoor seating is simple, little more than barrels and stools by the quay, but it is a pleasant spot on a warm evening. The brewery's website mentions a brewery tour and a taproom, so ask about tours if you want to see how the beer is made. The trip out to Gruž also shows you a working side of the city.
Opening hours have changed over the years, so check the brewery's Facebook or Instagram page before visiting, particularly in winter. Groups should consider contacting the brewery in advance for tours.
Gruž is easy to reach by city bus or taxi from the Pile Gate, and the brewery is a good stop before or after a ferry or catamaran journey, or after a morning visit to the Gruž market. Allow an hour or so. It suits beer lovers, groups of friends and anyone curious about a side of Dubrovnik that has nothing to do with the walls. Combine a visit with a walk along the Gruž waterfront to watch the ferries and catamarans come and go, or use it as a base before taking a boat to the Elaphiti Islands. Visiting in the late afternoon gives you time to try a few beers before heading back to the Old Town for dinner.
At Obala pape Ivana Pavla II 15 in Gruž, the harbour district north-west of the Old Town.
Its range has included Goa IPA, Maestral lager, Fortunal pale ale and Grego stout, plus seasonal specials.
The brewery's website lists a brewery tour; contact it for details.
An industrial brewing space with vats behind the bar and simple outdoor seating.
By city bus or taxi from the Pile Gate to Gruž.
Yes, simple seating by the quay.
Hours have changed over time, so check its social media before you go.
Yes. It is on the Gruž waterfront, convenient before or after a ferry journey.
Attraction
Almost two kilometres of medieval ramparts wrapped around Dubrovnik's Old Town, walkable in a full circuit with views over terracotta roofs and the open Adriatic.
Thing to do
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Tour operator
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Café
Dubrovnik's historic city café, established in 1895 beside Luža Square, with a terrace for coffee and a restaurant overlooking the old harbour.