St. John’s Fortress (Fort St. Ivana) Tours

Begun in the 14th century and completed in the 1500s, St. John’s Fortress (Tvrđava sv. Ivana) defended Dubrovnik’s Old Port from seaborne assaults for hundreds of years. Today, the fortified tower is known for its Adriatic views and Ragusan history, and is home to the city’s aquarium and maritime museum.

The Basics
Explore the medieval St. John’s Fortress independently or with a guide, keeping an eye out for familiar sights at the former Game of Thrones filming location. City Walls tickets include access to the fortress as well as Fort Lovrijenac, Fort Bokar, and the Minčeta Tower. To combine your visit with other Dubrovnik must-dos, such as the Dubrovnik Cable Car, opt for a package deal at a discounted price.

Things to Know Before You Go

• History buffs and Game of Thrones fans shouldn’t miss St. John’s Fortress.
• The fortress isn’t wheelchair-accessible.
• Although they’re located inside the fortress, the Maritime Museum and Dubrovnik Aquarium carry their own admission fees.
• Be prepared to climb some challenging steps to the battlement.

How to Get There
It’s easy to find St. John’s Fortress while doing a lap of the city walls. Within walking distance of most Old Town attractions, the fortress sits on the old harbor. You can get to Old Town by public transit or private vehicle, though parking is limited.

When to Get There
Go at night to marvel at the fortress’s atmospheric after-dark illuminations, or visit during the day for the clearest views of the open Adriatic and beyond.

Dubrovnik’s Maritime Museum
Learn about Dubrovnik’s naval history at the Maritime Museum, located on the upper floors of the fortress. Gain insight into the success of the Republic of Ragusa, study sailing and navigational techniques, or find out how World War II affected the region. Your admission ticket grants you access to other city institutions as well, such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Cultural History Museum in the Rector’s Palace.