Dubrovnik is a city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. Its well-preserved buildings range from baroque St. Blaise Church to Renaissance Sponza Palace and Gothic Rector’s Palace, now a history museum. Paved with limestone, the pedestrianized Stradun (or Placa) is lined with shops and restaurants.
Dubrovnik is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich history and stunning architecture. The city experienced a surge in tourism thanks to its prominent use as a filming location in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones,” in which it stood in for the fictional city of King’s Landing.
Dubrovnik Travel Guide
Where to Stay:
- Old Town: If you want to be in the center of it all, there’s no better place than the Old Town. Here, you’ll find historic buildings, museums, and the city walls. Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
- Lapad: A residential area with many hotels and beaches, perfect for families or those looking for a quieter stay. It’s well connected to the Old Town via bus.
- Ploce: Overlooking the Old Town and Adriatic Sea, Ploce offers some of the best views in the city. It’s home to luxury hotels, but be prepared for steep streets.
What to Do:
- Walk the City Walls: The best way to get your bearings in Dubrovnik. The views are breathtaking.
- Explore the Old Town: Wander around the UNESCO-listed Old Town and explore its many sights, including the Rector’s Palace and the Dubrovnik Cathedral.
- Visit Fort Lovrijenac: Just outside the city walls, this fort offers incredible views of the Old Town and the Adriatic.
- Take a Cable Car Ride: For a fantastic view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, take a ride on the cable car up Mount Srd.
- Day Trips: Consider a day trip to nearby islands like Lokrum or the Elaphiti Islands, or to the beautiful town of Cavtat.
How to Go:
- By Air: Dubrovnik Airport is the nearest, with numerous European airlines offering direct flights.
- By Sea: You can arrive by ferry from various Italian and Croatian ports.
- By Bus: There are regular buses from many cities in Croatia and from Montenegro.
What to Eat:
- Seafood: The Adriatic Sea offers an array of fresh seafood. Try dishes like black risotto (made with cuttlefish) and buzara (a seafood stew).
- Dubrovnik Rozata: A local custard pudding similar to crème brûlée.
- Peka: A traditional Croatian dish usually made with veal or octopus, potatoes, and other vegetables, cooked under a bell-like dome, or ‘peka’.
- Wine Tasting: Croatia has a rich wine culture. Visit a local wine bar or take a day trip to Pelješac peninsula for wine tasting.
- Try local cheeses and olive oil: Both are staples in Croatian cuisine and you can find high quality products in local markets.
