Dubrovnik, the city that’s been making waves in the maritime world for over a millennium. Imagine yourself as a medieval sailor, navigating the Adriatic Sea and stumbling upon Dubrovnik. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d discovered Atlantis! The Old Town is so well-preserved, you half expect to see a knight in shining armor asking for directions to the nearest tavern. But Dubrovnik isn’t just a pretty face. It’s got tales to tell that would make even the saltiest sea dog blush. Picture yourself as a wealthy merchant, wheeling and dealing in exotic spices and fine silks. Or perhaps you’re a daring explorer, setting sail from the port to discover new lands and battle mythical sea creatures (okay, maybe not that last part).
And let’s not forget the natural beauty that surrounds Dubrovnik. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and you might just find yourself playing hide-and-seek with a mermaid or two. Or simply kick back on a pristine beach and work on your tan while sipping a cocktail that’s as colorful as the local folklore. So, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just a fan of really good seafood, Dubrovnik has something for you. Just remember to bring your sense of humor – because in this city, even the seagulls have a punchline!
A Historic Harbor City Not to Be Missed
Ah, Dubrovnik – the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and the ultimate travel flex. This city is so bucket list-worthy, even your grandma has probably heard of it.
First up, the Old Town. It’s like a giant fortress of cool, with stone walls that could give the Great Wall of China a run for its money. Built between the 12th and 17th century, these bad boys are 2 km of pure medieval awesomeness. Inside, the Stradun is where it’s at. Picture this: you’re strolling down a marble-paved street, sipping coffee at an open-air cafe, and watching street performers do their thing. It’s like being in a real-life version of a medieval-themed Vegas show, minus the slot machines and Elvis impersonators.
But wait, there’s more! Beyond the walls, you’ll find banana tree-lined lanes that lead to beaches so pristine, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to tropical heaven. And the water? Let’s just say the Adriatic is so blue, it makes Eiffel 65’s hit song sound like an understatement. But the real magic of Dubrovnik lies in getting lost in its cobbled lanes and uncovering its past. It’s like a giant history book, but way more fun to explore. From its start as a Byzantine settlement in the 7th century to its days as an independent republic in the Middle Ages, every limestone building has a story to tell.
And if you really want to geek out on history, hit up the Franciscan Monastery & Museum for a crash course in medieval life, or the Maritime Museum to learn how Dubrovnik ruled the Adriatic trade scene like a boss.
How to Get There
Here are some tips for getting to Dubrovnik’s historic old city and harbor:
By Air
The closest airport to Dubrovnik is Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), located about 15-20 minutes from the city center. Many international airlines offer direct flights to DBV. Upon arrival, you can take a bus, taxi or arrange a private transfer into the city center.
By Bus
The best part? The main bus station is right outside the historic city walls, so you don’t have to lug your bags across town. And trust me, after sitting on a bus for a few hours, stretching your legs with a short walk to your hotel is a welcome relief.
By Ferry
Ferries are a popular means of reaching Dubrovnik, especially coming along the Adriatic coast from Split. Passenger ferries dock at Gruž Harbor, about 3 km northwest of Old Town. You can take a local bus, taxi or water taxi directly from Gruž Harbor to the historic port in Old Town.
Navigating the Old City
First things first, forget about driving. Cars are a big no-no within the old city walls. It’s all about embracing your inner pedestrian here. And trust me, with streets this narrow and charming, you won’t miss your four-wheeled friend one bit. Start your adventure at Pile Gate, the main western entrance. From there, let the Stradun, the city’s stunning main thoroughfare, be your guide. It’s like a red carpet lined with top landmarks, and you’re the star of the show.
Now, if you’re in a rush, you could probably walk from one end of the old city to the other in about 30 minutes. But where’s the fun in that? Take your time, wander off the beaten path, and discover the labyrinth of stone-paved backstreets and alleys. Trust me, getting lost never felt so good.
Getting Around
Getting around Dubrovnik’s magical old town area is best done on foot. With pedestrian-only streets lined with medieval buildings and winding alleyways begging to be explored, walking allows you to easily soak in the atmosphere.
If you want to venture outside the city walls, there are some options to make getting around efficient:
- Public buses – An affordable network of buses connects the old town to locations outside the city walls like the port, beaches and neighboring towns and villages. Buses run frequently in summer.
- Shuttle boats – From just outside the old town walls, shuttle boats can whisk you across the harbor to Lokrum island and other coastal spots not reachable on foot.
- Taxis – While pricier, Dubrovnik’s taxis offer a convenient way to reach locations like the main bus terminal, airport and hotels located farther from the old town. Taxis line up at key points like Pile Gate and the harbor.
- Cable car – For amazing aerial views over Dubrovnik’s terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Adriatic, take the cable car to the peak of Mount Srd. A must-do day or sunset activity.
- Bike rentals – Rent a bike for a few hours or a full day to cover more ground at your own pace. Bike along the former medieval city walls or downhill to the coast.
- Day trips/tours – Let an experienced local guide whisk you to nearby islands, villages, wineries and other top attractions. Relax while learning about destinations you’d have difficulty reaching independently.
With just a bit of planning, getting around this magical coastal retreat is almost as enjoyable as the destinations themselves!
Enjoy Both Relaxation and Adventure
With it’s pedestrian-only Old Town, absence of high-rise resorts and just the sound of church bells echoing off ancient walls, Dubrovnik easily tops lists of Europe’s most “romantic” cities. Find a café table on the Stradun protected from the summer heat by white umbrellas for the quintessential Dubrovnik experience. The coastal setting means there are also plenty of opportunities to try ocean-based activities, from stand-up paddleboarding to boat rides to the green island of Lokrum.
But adventure seekers can also head to the mountains just a few miles north of town for even more recreation. Here the landscape opens into rural villages and vineyards producing Croatia’s famous Plavac Mali red wine. Grab a bike and cruise along the former medieval trade route to Ston, known for it’s mountain-facing defensive walls and local oysters. Or strap on hiking boots to summit the region’s highest peak, Srd Mountain. It’s fort offers yet another dramatic perspective of Dubrovnik and the shimmering sea.
Dominican Monastery’s Medieval Cloisters
While Dubrovnik owes much of it’s glory to it’s seafaring history, the Dominican Monastery is a treasure dating back to the founding of the republic. Ground broke on the Gothic and Renaissance complex in 1301, with construction lasting over three centuries. Today visitors can view the authentic 15th century cloisters and inner courtyard largely untouched since the Middle Ages.
Enter the monastery and protocols demand silence—this was once living quarters for monks, after all. But it’s the sublime surroundings that will leave you speechless anyway. The double-arched Gothic cloister opens onto a corridor where no fewer than 15 elegant columns with carved capitals support the inner walkway. Each capital contains unique religious motifs. In the center, an antique water well stands as testament to an engineering feat for that day.
Through another stone archway lies the inner courtyard or garden. Roses and ornamental plants surround a central water fountain, while Dominican friars are still buried below stone markers in the courtyard. On one entire side stands the original living quarters, their wooden doors shut tight since the monks permanently left this monastery.
Dubrovnik’s Defensive City Walls
No visitor should leave Dubrovnik without walking the entire 1940 meter length of these impenetrable city walls. Not when they so brilliantly protected Dubrovnik for centuries and now provide such Instagrammable moments today. UNESCO certainly recognized their importance, naming them a World Heritage Site.
Work first began on fortifying the city from invaders in the 8th century, but today’s impressive walls and towers largely date from the 15th and 16th centuries. Several gates provide access, including the main Pile Gate that serves as grand entry through a stone bridge slot. Above it stands a statue of the city’s patron saint.
Once on the walls, visitors can walk the entire perimeter and gaze out over terracotta rooftops towards the sea and distant Elafiti Islands. Up to 6 meters thick in places, the limestone walls feel indestructible. Yet they also contain stories of successful attacks, like when gunpowder blew through the St. John Fort in 1806.
For the most striking views, take on the steep stairs leading to the rounded Minceta Fort on the city’s northwest corner. Construction on Dubrovnik’s highest point began under rule of the Republic of Ragusa in the late 15th century for added protection. The effort paid off and this largest fort still stands tall in Dubrovnik’s defense.
Find Your Own Private Beach
With Dubrovnik providing so much rich history and culture, don’t forget it also lies adjacent to the stunning Adriatic Sea. You’ll spot it’s intriguing bluish-green hue while gazing over the city walls. But to truly appreciate the crystal clear waters, you need to find one of the beaches tucked below the limestone cliffs.
Many visitors only make it as far as Banje Beach, just outside Pile Gate. Being so close to Old Town makes it popular and often crowded. For more seclusion, take the 30-minute walk to Sveti Jakov Beach near the luxury Excelsior Hotel. Here the pebbled beach comes padded with lounge chairs and umbrellas along with a beach bar.
Or better yet, catch one of the small boats running all day long from Old Harbor to Lokrum Island. A mere 10-minute ride feels like an escape to the tropics, with Lokrum covered in evergreens and palms. Forget crowded beaches here where nudists lay out on flat rocks. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day celebrating nature at this protected reserve. For the clearest waters, head to the aptly named Betina Cave on the western side—accessible only by swimming around the island’s perimeter.
Taste the Flavors of Dalmatia in Old Town
All those stone walkways and alleyways in Old Town don’t just lead to ancient palaces and Baroque churches. Ask a local and they’ll direct you to their favorite konoba —a relaxed tavern-style eatery serving up the delightful flavors of Dalmatian cuisine.
For authentic ambiance, tables spill out onto the Stradun at Lady Pi-Pi. Grilled meat and fish provide savory staples, but save room for sweet ginger crepes called palačinke. Or try Restaurant Dubrovnik’s version of the meat-and-veggie-filled cabbage rolls called sarma.
Indeed, with so much seafood, olive oil and wine, it’s hard to choose where to dine in Dubrovnik. Check every menu for the risotto-like orzo dish called njoki along with squid or octopus salad. And don’t miss out on the delicate orange wine called malvazija that pairs so nicely with the Mediterranean dishes.
Discover the City’s Fascinating History
Called the “Jewel of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik offers immersion into Croatian history and culture as well as natural beauty. Below it’s imposing medieval walls lies a warren of stone palaces, Baroque churches, Renaissance fountains and vibrant piazzas that practically vibrate with history.
Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik flourished into a shipping and merchant powerhouse by the Middle Ages. As the Dubrovnik Republic, it remained an independent state until 1808 and was the only Adriatic city-state to rival Venice. Merchants, diplomats and intellectuals were drawn to the tolerant, sophisticated city-state.
But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing, despite being able to balance Ottoman interests with Western alliances for centuries. Dubrovnik suffered a devastating earthquake in 1667 that destroyed much of it’s Gothic and early Renaissance art and architecture. Most recently in 1991, Serbian forces bombarded Dubrovnik for seven months as panicked residents cowered in basements—just decades after restoring many historic buildings from WWII bombing.
Remarkably, Dubrovnik has bounced back every time. Today it attracts visitors who may be drawn in by it’s beauty but then captivated by it’s rich history just waiting around every corner. Get lost in the backstreets and leave time to visit museums like the 15th century Rector’s Palace and 11th century cathedral and Sponza Palace showcasing medieval to Baroque styles. Probe friendly locals on their favorite cultural sites. Dubrovnik rewards those who take time to scratch beneath it’s undeniably gorgeous surface.
Don’t Miss These Top Attractions
With a compact, walkable Old Town, it’s tempting to merely wander until a stone church, narrow alleyway or leafy piazza catches your eye. But with a little planning, you can see some of Dubrovnik’s iconic sites that best reveal it’s rich history and culture:
Walk the City Walls: No visit is complete without strolling Dubrovnik’s impressive city walls. At nearly 2 km long, the ramparts run almost the full perimeter of the old city. Climb up stone steps to walk along the 15th and 16th century fortifications while enjoying a bird’s eye perspective of orange rooftops and the Adriatic Sea.
See the Dominican Monastery: For a look into medieval monastic life, tour the gothic Dominican Monastery in Dubrovnik’s northeast corner. Visitors especially love the peaceful cloister lined with columns, the interior Dominican museum with Renaissance art and the old pharmacy display.
Explore the Rectors Palace: Once home to Dubrovnik’s most prominent statesmen and aristocrats, the Gothic-Renaissance Rector’s Palace now houses city government offices as well as exhibits on it’s history. See the sculpted busts of famous rectors in the atrium on your way upstairs to the grand salons and rooms decorated with 15th century frescoes.
Walk Down the Stradun: Dubrovnik’s main street serves as the arterial vein filled with cafés, shops and street performers. Grab an outdoor table for the best people watching and views of Baroque buildings and Orlando’s Column. The elegant Onofrio Fountain anchors the western end near Ploče Gate.
Visit the Maritime Museum: Given Dubrovnik’s extensive maritime history, don’t miss this museum within Fort Saint John. Models of ships and nautical equipment explain the importance of seafaring to the rise and prosperity of the Dubrovnik Republic. Displays also highlight the traditional shipbuilding process.
Best Places to Eat
Dubrovnik offers many delicious dining options to fuel up during your old city explorations. Here are some top picks for where to eat:
- Nishta – This cozy vegetarian haven serves up fresh, creative dishes in a tiny stone building. Come at lunch to try the buffet featuring local specialties like zucchini fritters.
- Lady Pi-Pi – Grab an outdoor table on the bustling Stradun pedestrian avenue for great people watching. Traditional cooking techniques shine through in grilled meats and fish. Don’t miss the sweet ginger crepes!
- Restaurant 360 – For stunning sunset views overlooking the old harbor and Lokrum island, this rooftop restaurant takes the prize. The contemporary menu also impresses.
- Taj Mahal – One of the best spots for authentic Bosnian cuisine, family-run Taj Mahal offers courtyard or alley seating. Sample cured meats, fried squid or the baked onion and meat dish called plata. Cash only.
- Restaurant Dubrovnik – Tucked away on a quieter alley, this favorite eatery excels at seafood and meat entrees served with veggies from their garden outside the city walls.
- Bota Šare Oyster & Sushi Bar – In warm months, the place for fresh local oysters and sushi is this harbor spot with al fresco tables by the water.
- Shizuku – For exquisite Japanese fare, Shizuku masters the classics but also surprises with items like tuna tartare with mango.
- Barba – Grab a table on the jetty overlooking vibrant fishing boats in Gruž harbor. Fresh seafood glistening on beds of ice awaits! Cash only.
Best Hotels and Motels to Stay
Inside Old Town:
- Villa Dubrovnik – This high-end, boutique hotel offers fine dining, an outdoor pool and sleek rooms with gorgeous Adriatic Sea views.
- Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – Luxurious 5-star hotel from 1913 boasting three restaurants, a beach club and elaborate rooms and suites.
- Villa Argentina – Intimate, historic 4-star boutique hotel featuring stylish rooms, a quiet old town location and wonderful breakfast.
Near Old Town:
- Grand Villa Argentina – Sophisticated 5-star hotel located on the scenic coastal walk to Old Town, with a pool, spa center and mosaic-tiled rooms.
- Berkeley Hotel & Day Spa – Contemporary 4-star hotel near Old Town offering an outdoor pool, spa treatments, courtyard dining and sleek decor.
- Motel Mikulić – Affordable, family-run motel just a 5 minute walk from Pile Gate. Spotless rooms have mini-fridges and Balkonies. Outstanding value.
Lapad Area:
- Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik – Luxe 4-star hotel with extensive spa facilities, multiple dining options, pools and perfect sunset viewing from it’s Lapad location.
- Hotel More – Ultra modern, eco-friendly hotel along the Lapad waterfront housing a spa, gym, cocktail bar and peaceful garden for relaxation.
With rooms getting booked quickly during peak season, reserve your Dubrovnik stay well in advance for the best rates and availability!
Experience the Spectacle of Song and Dance
From June through August each year, Dubrovnik adds even more cultural cachet by hosting the Summer Festival. Sunsets provide a dramatic backdrop for ballet, classical concerts and theatrical drama performed outside on the streets or inside various stunning venues. Illyrian folk dances bring tradition alive while audiences sip wine at intermission. Musicians arrive from European cities to show off their virtuosity during orchestra concerts held in most of the stone palaces and fortresses.
The annual Summer Festival first launched back in 1950. But the concept of music, dances and stories celebrating Dubrovnik’s proud past really extends back six centuries. On summer nights in the Middle Ages, folk dancers and bands processed through lit-up streets. This passion for keeping heritage alive continues today, when locals don traditional costumes and recreate ritual circle dances. It embodies Croatia’s yearning to honor it’s history through emotional artistic expression.
And those fortunate to visit Dubrovnik during the festival bask in this cultural extravaganza. Truly experiencing the heritage woven into the streets requires more than just touring sites. Visitors need to sit amongst locals in stone theatres built during the Renaissance to witness how song, theater and music still convey Croatian identity today just as centuries ago.
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