Studio Banovac

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Studio Banovac? The address – Za Rupama 2 – which literally means “behind the holes” in Croatian, referring to the ancient stone arches you’ll walk through to get there. I mean, how perfectly Dubrovnik is that? The place is tucked away in Old Town, and I’m talking properly tucked away, not just marketing-speak hidden. You’ll actually have to navigate those smooth limestone streets (watch your step when it’s been raining, they get slippery) to find it, but that’s half the charm. The building itself has that weathered stone look that makes you wonder if your room was once someone’s medieval storage space – in the best possible way.

What really gets me about this place is how it manages to feel authentically local while still being, well, actually comfortable. The 9.3 rating isn’t just numbers on a screen – you can feel it in the details. The rooms are what I’d call “thoughtfully compact,” which is perfect because honestly, who spends time in their hotel room when you’re literally steps from Stradun? But when you do crash at the end of the day (after climbing those city walls or dodging the cruise ship crowds), everything just works. The owners clearly know their stuff – they’ve got that Croatian hospitality thing down where they’re genuinely helpful without being overbearing. They’ll tell you which konoba to hit for dinner and actually mean it, not just point you toward the tourist traps.

The location is pretty much unbeatable if you want to experience Dubrovnik like a temporary local rather than a day-tripper. You’re close enough to hear the morning setup of the market vendors but far enough from the main drag that you won’t have groups of tourists rolling suitcases past your window at 6 AM. I loved being able to grab coffee and pastries from that little bakery on Prijeko Street before the Old Town really wakes up – there’s something magical about having those ancient streets mostly to yourself. Sure, it’s a 3-star place, so don’t expect a spa or concierge service, but honestly? The charm factor makes up for any fancy amenities. Plus, you’re saving money you can spend on those incredible seafood dinners and maybe a sunset drink at Buža Bar. The whole experience feels less like staying at a hotel and more like crashing at a friend’s place – if your friend happened to live in one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $95. Studio with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Wonderful quiet location in the old town – Kathryn from United Kingdom – 10 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very quiet area of the old town – a nice spacious apartment with a lovely little courtyard to sit in outside. The air conditioning was good and they were helpful and let us keep our luggage there for another hour.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs weren’t an issue for us- but would be for some. However Dubrovnik is full of stairs so you’d need to stay outside of the old town if you wanted direct access to a property.

• Charming apartment that sets up a perfect Dubrovnik holiday. – George from Australia – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

  Good location and very private. The apartment suited the area perfectly. Very close to Pile Gates. Fantastic value for money.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to really mention. Just be prepared for the walk up to it as there are quite a few steps. Probably 2/3rds of the way up.

• Gorgeous apartment, great location. – Patsy from Australia – 15 May 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely little apartment in the heart of Dubrovnik with its own little courtyard. Had everything we needed, bed was super comfortable, very quiet.
  
  What could be improved: Lots of stairs to get to the apartment but this is Dubrovnic so to be expected and it is probably why it was so quiet, just need to be aware if you have heavy luggage or bad knees!

• Quiet. Cute. Comfortable. Spacious. Very clean. – Silvia from Australia – 14 May 2025 (9/10)

  So cute! Open plan, spacious and very clean. I had a very comfortable stay.
  
  What could be improved: It didn’t really bother me, but the 100 steps to the studio were a bit of a challenge with luggage.

• Perfect little hideaway so close to central old town area, such character!! – Richard from Ireland – 30 April 2025 (9/10)

  Everything!! It was so quaint, clean, quiet, central, comfortable bed, lots of hot water, great shower, little garden with clothes line! It was absolutely perfect!!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Perfect apartment, well equipped, spotless and in a great location – Caroline from United Kingdom – 19 April 2025 (10/10)

  The studio apartment was perfect for myself and my son. It was in a lovely quiet location.
  It was spotless when we arrived, exactly like the photos, and there was everything we needed in the kitchen for a self-catered stay!
  The bed was really comfortable, my son slept well on the sofa bed, and there were plenty of towels in the bathroom. The shower was lovely and hot too!
  The courtyard was really nice to sit in, and I loved sitting in it with a glass of wine, seeing all the huge lemons on the tree and listening to the clock tower bells!
  Nino was very responsive to messages and he also let me know that the studio was ready and we were able to check in a little early, as well as allowed us to check out a bit later on our last day too, which was really helpful and much appreciated!
  
  What could be improved: We loved everything about it, it was perfect for us!

• Excellent location and great value for money – Emma from United Kingdom – 7 April 2025 (10/10)

  Location, facilities, cleanliness. Nino, the host, answered all my questions and helped when needed. He even gave us a late check out which was so kind of him. Very comfy bed. Very peaceful. Everything you would need for a short stay is in the apartment including a decent hair dryer.
  The apartment is located in the old Town and probably a 3 min walk to the nearest restaurant. Be warned – if you struggle with steps and going uphill, Dubrovnik probably isn't for you. But it's a beautiful place, the people are great and there are so many bars and restaurants. Would also recommend the City Wall Walk and the Cable Car.
  Would definitely stay in this apartment again.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing,

• Exceptional – Avni from United Kingdom – 10 October 2024 (10/10)

  Good location and host

• Cute getaway in Dubrovnik – Luke from United States – 1 October 2024 (8/10)

  Cute little studio that had everything we needed. It was in a quiet area and had a private garden to have meals in.
  
  What could be improved: The communication could have been better about how the water heater works and how to turn it on.
  The tv was impossible to figure out because it was in a different language.

• Beautiful apartment in Old Town – Theresa from United States – 23 September 2024 (10/10)

  The host was accommodating and let us store our luggage before check in. Being in the Old Town, you have to climb 40-50 steps to get there, but it’s close to Pile Gate (where a bus or taxi/uber can drop you off). The place is spacious, charming, clean, comfortable, quiet, modern/new. Also, bring in the Old Town, restaurants, shops, and bars are within walking distance.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities