Fresh off a trip to Dubrovnik, a traveler is sharing one crucial piece of advice that could transform your Croatia experience: don't drive there.The Old Town is undeniably stunning - "feels like walking inside a movie set," they wrote - but it's packed during the day and requires navigating lots of stairs. The best moments come early mornings and late evenings when crowds thin and you can wander the tiny side streets, find random cliff bars, and watch sunsets from the ancient walls.But here's the game-changer: Instead of dealing with Dubrovnik's problematic parking situation, stay in Cavtat (a lovely nearby town) and take a boat trip to Dubrovnik.Cavtat is a picturesque coastal town about 20 kilometers south of Dubrovnik, sitting on a small peninsula. It offers the same Adriatic beauty without the overwhelming cruise ship crowds. Accommodations are generally cheaper, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and parking is far less stressful.Regular boat services connect Cavtat to Dubrovnik's Old Town, turning your commute into a scenic journey rather than a parking nightmare. The boat ride itself becomes part of the experience - views of the coastline, sea breeze, and you arrive directly at the Old Town harbor.This strategy addresses one of Dubrovnik's biggest overtourism problems: cars. The UNESCO World Heritage Site's Old Town is pedestrian-only, and parking in the surrounding areas fills up quickly during peak season. Prices are high, spaces are limited, and you'll waste valuable sightseeing time circling for spots.The Broader Overtourism Context:Dubrovnik has become a cautionary tale of tourism success gone wrong. The city's appearance in Game of Thrones (King's Landing) triggered an explosion of visitors that has strained infrastructure and frustrated locals. Daily visitor caps have been discussed, and the city has implemented measures like limiting cruise ship arrivals, but crowds remain intense during summer months.Staying outside the main tourist zone and boat-commuting is exactly the kind of strategy sustainable tourism advocates recommend: you still visit and spend money in Dubrovnik, but you reduce pressure on the old city's accommodation and parking, while supporting nearby communities like Cavtat.Practical Tips:Visit early morning (before 9 AM) or late evening (after 5 PM) when cruise ship passengers have left. Walk the city walls first thing in the morning for the best light and smallest crowds. Book boat tickets from Cavtat in advance during peak season (June-August). Budget extra for entrance fees - walls, museums, and attractions add up quickly.The traveler's final verdict? Dubrovnik "delights every time," but preparation is key. And that preparation starts with leaving your car in Cavtat.