Top 7 Things to Do in Dubrovnik

 
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As a travel enthusiast, I’ve come to realize that having high hopes for a destination can lead to serious disappointment. It’s for that reason that I often try to keep my expectations low for cities that are as popular and praised as Dubrovnik. Luckily for my husband Alex and I, Dubrovnik exceeded our expectations twofold. 

Perched right on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik’s old town is one of the oldest medieval walled cities in the world. The city’s terracotta-roofed buildings protected by limestone walls sit in sharp contrast to the surrounding turquoise water. It’s no wonder that the area has served as the backdrop to many famous movies and shows including, of course, Game of Thrones. Whether you’re searching for history, architectural wonders, or natural beauty, Dubrovnik has it all. 

Planning Your Trip

Planning Your Trip

During our 11 day trip to Croatia, we spent three nights in Dubrovnik. One day we took an excursion to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro (see post here) so we really only had two days to enjoy the city. That was more than enough time to see all of the major attractions, but our schedule was packed. For a more relaxed visit, I would recommend giving yourself three full days for exploration.

Croatia
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If you plan to go during peak season (May through September), I would strongly recommend checking the cruise ship schedule for the duration of your stay. If there are going to be multiple cruise ships in the area one day, consider getting out of town or going to less popular sites. Another option is to explore in the early morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the crowds.


Where to Stay

Old Town

If you can find an affordable option, try to stay within the city walls. You’ll love the atmosphere as well as the proximity to all of the major attractions. Alternatively, there are a lot of AirBnB and hotel options on the side of Mount Syd. Alex and I were in Dubrovnik in peak season, so that’s where we stayed. The location has its positives and negatives. The views of old town are amazing due to the elevation, but the walk to and from town is not for the faint of heart.

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Walk the City Walls

Dubrovnik Cathedral

If you do nothing else in Dubrovnik other than walk the city walls, your trip will have been worth it. Once you climb to the top, you’ll be greeted with view after amazing view of the old town and the shimmering Adriatic. The original walls were built in the 9th century, but the walls you see today were constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries. If you walk the total distance of the walls, it’s roughly 1.25 miles around and you’ll pass through five fort towers.

Dubrovnik
Clock Tower & Orlando’s Column

Besides the views, the walls also offer an interesting glimpse into Dubrovnik’s past. While the city has been around for centuries, some of its history is more recent. In 1991, after the break-up of Yugoslavia, Dubrovnik was besieged by the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) for seven months and suffered significant damage from shelling. While walking the walls, if you look hard enough, you’ll be able to spot which of the roofs were replaced in the aftermath. 

Fort Lawrence

Important Note: Try to get to the walls as early as possible to avoid the crowds (especially if it’s peak season). Another great piece of advice I received from a local is to enter the walls at the Ploče Gate. It’s on the eastern side of the old town, opposite from Pile Gate, and is a much quieter entry point.

Check out the Views from Fort Lawrence

Fort Lawrence

Fort Lawrence (also known as Fort Lovrijenac) is an impressive free-standing fortress, constructed atop a rocky promontory adjacent to the old town. It was originally built to guard the city's western approach from invasion by land or sea. The inside is fairly bare, but the battlements offer amazing views of the old town and surrounding sea. For those of you who are Game of Thrones fans, you may recognize Fort Lawrence as the setting of the Red Keep. 

Fort Lawrence

Important Note: Your ticket to the city walls also includes admission to Fort Lawrence! Make sure you visit both on the same day. 

Go on a Walking Tour

Dubrovnik

When traveling, I usually try to steer clear of huge group tours, but I do love to take small or private tours in cities like Dubrovnik that have rich histories. We took a two hour tour at the beginning of our stay in Dubrovnik in order to get familiar with the layout of the city. It was an incredible way to learn the city’s history and interesting tidbits of information straight from a local. Knowing the backstory of the different sites and buildings made us appreciate what we were seeing that much more. 

Clock Tower & Orlando’s Column
Sponza Palace

Alex and I booked our tour through Dubrovnik Walking Tours and had a great guide who kept us engaged for the entire two hours. There are dozens of tour options in Dubrovnik that I’m sure offer similar experiences.

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A few of the attractions you might visit on a tour include: 

  • Pile Gate

  • Jesuit Stairs

  • Rector’s Palace

  • Luza Square

  • Sponza Palace

  • Clock Tower & Orlando’s Column

  • Dubrovnik Cathedral

  • Onofrio Fountain

  • St. Blaise Church

  • Fort Lawrence

Take the Cable Car to Mount Srd

Mount Srd

No matter where you are in Dubrovnik, it’s likely that if you look up, you’ll notice Mount Srd in the background. The top of the mountain offers the best bird’s-eye view of Dubrovnik’s old town as well as the most picturesque sunsets. If you’re looking to work on your cardio, you can hike to the top which takes 60-90 minutes. Alternatively, the cable car is an excellent option.

Dubrovnik

Once to the top, avoid the crowds by exiting the cable car building. There is a footpath that will take you to several viewpoints along the top of the mountain. Each one is sure to take your breath away.

Explore Old Town 

Dubrovnik Cathedral

The best way to appreciate the beauty of Dubrovnik is by getting lost in the winding streets of the old town. Start your exploration by taking a stroll down the Stradun promenade which runs through the heart of the historic district. In the connecting streets, peruse through tiny shops that sell everything from leather goods to lavender soap.

Fort Lawrence

When you need a break, grab a coffee or bite to eat and people watch in Luža Square. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The ambiance can’t be beaten!

VISIT Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island

In contrast to Dubrovnik’s bustling old town, Lokrum is a nature lover’s dream. Depending on the amount of time you have, there are several ways to enjoy the island. If you have a free day, consider taking the ten minute ferry ride to the island to swim, relax, and see the many peacocks and rabbits that inhabit the area. Alternatively, consider going on a kayaking tour. Starting from Banje Beach, you will paddle along the exterior of the city walls and then make your way to the island to explore the coastline. 

Lokrum Island

If you’re short on time, consider going on a sailboat cruise instead. Many companies offer short trips around the island for a small fee. It’s a great way to relax, enjoy the salty breeze, and take in the gorgeous views. 

Enjoy a Drink with a View

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There are two bars in Dubrovnik that give the phrase “hole in the wall” a whole new meaning. Buža Bar and Café Bar Bard are literally built into the outermost part of the city wall, offering spectacular views of the sea and Lokrum island. The bars can get a bit crowded, but if you go in off-peak hours, you’ll enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll likely pay a bit more for drinks than you typically would, but the views make the price worth it.

Important Note: These bars are sometimes referred to as Buža 1 and Buža 2. Both offer entrances to swimming areas so bring your swimsuit if you fancy a quick dip! 

If you’re considering making a trip to Dubrovnik or already have plans to do so, you will not be disappointed. It’s a beautiful city with so much to offer. Still have questions? Let me know in the comments!

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Kolby Tallentire

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My name is Kolby Tallentire and I’m the creator of Tallentire Travels. This site formed out of my unending love of travel. My goal is to bring you the most unique and affordable travel recommendations for every destination. Learn More

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EuropeKolby TallentireDubrovnik, Croatia, EuropeComment