Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a must-see for history lovers and beachgoers alike. With its medieval walls, glistening blue waters, and stunning coastal views, this Croatian gem offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure

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Itineraries

• 1 Day: Spend the day exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town, walk the city walls, visit the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace, and relax at the popular Banje Beach with views of the city.
• 2 Days: Take time to explore the Old Town at a more relaxed pace. Visit the Franciscan Monastery and its pharmacy museum, the Dubrovnik Cathedral, and ride the cable car for sweeping views of the city and surrounding islands. Day two can be reserved for a boat trip to Lokrum Island or a day at one of the nearby beaches like Sveti Jakov.
• 3+ Days: Perfect for delving deeper into the city’s surroundings, take a day trip to Cavtat or the Elaphiti Islands for a mix of nature, villages, and beaches. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, consider joining a guided tour of filming locations throughout the city.

The Old Town from above

Natural Attractions

• Lokrum Island: Just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum is a peaceful, lush island with botanical gardens, a saltwater lake, and medieval ruins. It’s perfect for hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing.
• Mount Srd: Take the cable car or hike up Mount Srd for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding coast. It’s a fantastic spot to take in the beauty of the city, especially at sunset.

• Sveti Jakov Beach: Known for its quieter, less crowded atmosphere, this beach offers a peaceful escape with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the Old Town.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

• City Walls: Dubrovnik’s most iconic feature, the city walls date back to the 13th century and stretch for over 2 kilometers. Walking the walls gives visitors a unique view of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. Along the way, you’ll see forts, towers, and spectacular vistas of the coastline.
• Rector’s Palace: A magnificent Gothic-Renaissance building, once the seat of government in the Republic of Ragusa. Today, it houses the Cultural History Museum, showcasing art, artifacts, and exhibitions on Dubrovnik’s past.
• Sponza Palace: This 16th-century palace now serves as the State Archives, home to documents and artworks from Dubrovnik’s golden age.
• Dubrovnik Cathedral: Built over the site of an earlier church, this baroque cathedral is home to relics, including the remains of St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint. The cathedral’s stunning interior is a must-see.

A view of the Dubrovnik Cathedral

Visit Next

• Cavtat: A small town just 20 kilometers south of Dubrovnik, Cavtat is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient Roman ruins, and charming old town. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
• Mljet National Park: Located about an hour away by ferry, this stunning island offers lush forests, saltwater lakes, and the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on the island of St. Mary. Ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
• Korčula: Known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, this beautiful island is filled with medieval charm, stunning beaches, and vineyards. Korčula’s Old Town is a mini version of Dubrovnik, making it a great day trip.
• Elaphiti Islands: A group of small islands just northwest of Dubrovnik, known for their tranquil beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful nature. A perfect escape from the city crowds. You can visit these islands on a boat tour or ferry from Dubrovnik.

What to Do

Activities

• Explore the City Walls: No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk along the iconic city walls. Offering panoramic views of the Old Town, the Adriatic, and surrounding islands, it’s one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the city.
• Cable Car to Mount Srd: For stunning vistas of Dubrovnik and the coastline, take the cable car up to Mount Srd. There’s a restaurant at the top, perfect for a drink while enjoying the view.
• Island Hopping: Dubrovnik is surrounded by beautiful islands like Lokrum, Mljet, and the Elaphiti Islands. Take a boat tour or ferry to explore these serene spots, swim in crystal-clear waters, or hike through lush nature reserves.
• Game of Thrones Tour: For fans of the show, Dubrovnik is a must-visit location. Many of the scenes were filmed in the city, and you can take a guided walking tour to see iconic spots like the Red Keep, the Walk of Shame, and other memorable locations.
• Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Dubrovnik’s coastline is perfect for water sports. Kayaking along the city’s walls or paddling around the nearby islands offers a unique perspective of the area.
• Sea Kayak Tour to Lokrum Island: Paddle over to Lokrum Island for a fun and active day trip. It’s a peaceful, car-free island with plenty of space for hiking, relaxing by the saltwater lake, or exploring medieval ruins.

Nightlife

Dubrovnik is known for its more laid-back and elegant nightlife, with plenty of options for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing:

• Banje Beach Club: This beach club is famous for its stylish ambiance and stunning views of the Old Town and city walls. It’s a great spot for a sunset cocktail or a relaxed evening with friends.
• D’Vino Wine Bar: For wine lovers, D’Vino offers a selection of local Croatian wines paired with small plates. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening.
• The Gaffe: This lively pub, popular among both locals and tourists, offers live music, cocktails, and a relaxed vibe, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
• Buza Bar: A hidden gem carved into the city walls, Buza Bar is an outdoor bar with spectacular views of the Adriatic. It’s the perfect spot for an evening drink, offering a chill atmosphere and a chance to watch the sunset over the sea.

Eat

Typical Cuisine Dubrovnik is a paradise for food lovers, with a rich blend of Mediterranean flavors and Croatian culinary traditions. Here are a few dishes to try:

• Pasticada: A slow-cooked beef stew served with gnocchi. It’s a Dalmatian specialty and perfect for those seeking hearty, traditional flavors.
• Buzara: A delicious seafood dish, typically made with shellfish like mussels or shrimp, cooked in a rich tomato and wine sauce.
• Grilled Fish and Seafood: As a coastal city, Dubrovnik offers an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. A meal of grilled fish, octopus salad, or shrimp risotto is a must.
• Rožata: A traditional Dalmatian dessert, similar to flan, flavored with rose liqueur and often served chilled.
• Black Risotto: A classic seafood risotto made with cuttlefish or squid, the distinctive black color comes from the ink of the seafood.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Restaurant 360°: Located atop the city walls, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers exceptional fine dining with a view. The menu is a modern take on Croatian cuisine, using locally-sourced ingredients and prepared with skill and flair.
• Lokanda Peskarija: A wonderful seafood restaurant near the Old Town’s port. Known for its fresh seafood, you can enjoy a variety of grilled fish and shellfish while overlooking the harbor.
• Nautika: For a more upscale experience, Nautika offers stunning views of the Adriatic and the city walls, paired with a fine selection of Croatian wines and seafood dishes.
• Konoba Dubrava: Located a little outside the city center, this family-run eatery offers an authentic taste of Croatian home cooking. The roasted lamb is a local favorite.
• Cafe Buza: Not only is this a great spot for drinks, but it also offers small plates of delicious seafood. A hidden gem with an excellent view and a more relaxed vibe.

Buy

Dubrovnik is full of charming shops offering local products and souvenirs, perfect for picking up a memento of your visit. Here are some ideas on where to shop:

• Croatian Olive Oil: Croatia is known for its high-quality olive oil, and you can find it in many small shops throughout the Old Town. Try buying from the local markets or specialized stores like Oliva Dubrovačka, where you can taste a variety of oils and learn about the production process.
• Linen and Silk Products: Dubrovnik has several shops specializing in handmade linen clothing, scarves, and other accessories, perfect for keeping cool in the summer. Look for local artisan boutiques like Dubrovačka trgovina for high-quality, traditional textiles.
• Local Crafts: For a unique souvenir, look for locally crafted jewelry, ceramics, or paintings. The Dubrovnik Art Gallery is an excellent place to buy original artworks by local artists, and you can find many small shops selling hand-painted ceramics.
• Game of Thrones Merchandise: If you’re a fan of the series, there are several stores around Dubrovnik that sell Game of Thrones-related memorabilia, from replica swords to costumes and postcards.
• Lokalna Tržnica (Market): The local market near the Old Town is a great place to buy fresh produce, homemade jams, cheeses, and traditional Croatian spices to bring home a taste of the region.

Visit

Best Time to Visit

Dubrovnik is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for:

• Avoiding the Crowds: The summer months, particularly June to August, are the peak tourist season in Dubrovnik. While the weather is perfect for beach days, the city can be very crowded. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (May, September, and early October). The weather is still warm, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the sights without the large tourist crowds.
• For Activities: If you’re into water sports like kayaking, sailing, or exploring the islands, the best time is May to October, when the sea is warm and perfect for these activities. However, for hiking and outdoor activities like visiting Mount Srd or taking a walking tour of the city, spring and early autumn are ideal as the temperatures are pleasant.
• Unique Festivals: Dubrovnik hosts several festivals throughout the year. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July-August) is the most famous, offering a rich program of classical music, theater, and dance performances. The St. Blaise Festival (February 3), dedicated to the city’s patron saint, is another unique cultural experience. If you enjoy festivities, plan your trip around one of these celebrations for a truly local experience.
• Best Photography Motifs: The best time for photography is at dawn or dusk, when the soft lighting adds a magical glow to the city’s ancient walls, streets, and seascapes. Early morning offers beautiful shots without the crowds, and the golden hour in the evening creates breathtaking scenes of Dubrovnik’s architecture and coast.

How Long to Visit (Ideal Trip Duration)

The length of your stay depends on your travel style and what you want to do, but generally, 3–4 days is perfect for Dubrovnik.

• 3 Days: This is ideal for a short getaway. You can visit the major attractions, like the Old Town, the City Walls, and a boat tour to nearby islands. You’ll have time to relax and enjoy a leisurely pace.
• 5 Days: If you’re looking for a more relaxed visit with some activities like island hopping, water sports, and hiking up Mount Srd, 5 days is a great option. It gives you enough time to enjoy the city and its surroundings at a more leisurely pace, with plenty of downtime.
• 7+ Days: A week or more would allow for even deeper exploration, including more day trips to nearby towns like Cavtat or Korčula, plus enjoying the nightlife and dining scene in the evenings. This is ideal if you’re looking to combine sightseeing with a relaxing vacation.

Arrival & Transport

Get There

Dubrovnik is well-connected, so getting there is easy whether you’re flying, driving, or traveling by ship.

• By Plane: Dubrovnik has an international airport (Dubrovnik Airport, DBV) located about 20 kilometers from the city center. It has direct flights from many European cities, as well as seasonal flights from further destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center.
• By Train: Dubrovnik does not have a train station. However, you can take a train to Split or Ploče and then continue by bus or car. Train travel in Croatia is reliable but not as direct for reaching Dubrovnik.
• By Ship: Dubrovnik is a popular cruise destination. If you’re arriving by cruise, you’ll dock at the Port of Dubrovnik, just a short distance from the Old Town. Ferries also operate between Dubrovnik and nearby islands like Korčula and Mljet.
• By Car: Dubrovnik is easily reachable by car from the rest of Croatia. If you’re coming from Split, the drive takes about 3-4 hours along a scenic coastal route. You’ll also find rental car options at the airport if you want to explore the area more freely.
• By Bus: Buses from cities like Split, Zadar, and Zagreb run frequently to Dubrovnik. While it’s a longer journey compared to flying, it can be a cost-effective option for getting to Dubrovnik.

Get Around

Dubrovnik is a compact city, and most of the sights are within walking distance in the Old Town. However, there are several transportation options for getting around the area.

• Walking: The best way to explore Dubrovnik is on foot, especially within the Old Town. The narrow streets are pedestrian-only, and walking allows you to truly experience the charm of the city.
• Public Transport: Dubrovnik has a reliable public bus system, ideal for traveling between the Old Town and other areas of the city, like the beaches or the airport. The buses run regularly and are affordable.
• Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis are available in Dubrovnik, but they can be a bit pricey. Ridesharing apps like Uber operate in the city as well, providing an alternative to traditional taxis.
• Boat: Dubrovnik’s coastline is beautiful, and taking a boat is one of the best ways to explore nearby islands. You can rent a private boat or take a public ferry to nearby destinations like Lokrum or the Elaphiti Islands.

Stay

Dubrovnik offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with sea views to charming guesthouses in the heart of the Old Town. Here are some recommendations for different budgets:

Luxury

• Villa Dubrovnik: This 5-star hotel is perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic. With a private beach, top-notch service, and a serene atmosphere, it’s perfect for a luxurious getaway.
• Hotel Excelsior: Located just outside the Old Town, Hotel Excelsior is another fantastic luxury option. It boasts stunning views, a private beach, and several fine dining options.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Kompas: Located near Lapad Bay, Hotel Kompas offers a great mix of modern amenities and sea views. It’s not far from the Old Town and offers a more affordable option for travelers looking for comfort.
• The Pucic Palace: Situated in a prime location in the Old Town, this charming boutique hotel combines classic elegance with modern amenities, perfect for those who want to stay close to the action.

Budget:

• Hostel Angelina: For budget travelers, Hostel Angelina offers clean and basic accommodations, and it’s a short walk to the Old Town. It’s a great option for those looking to save money while still being close to the attractions.

For those looking for a unique experience, Dubrovnik also offers a variety of charming Airbnb properties, from apartments with sea views to houses nestled in the hills, giving you the opportunity to stay like a local.

The typical orange roofs