22 Greatest Issues to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

That includes a historic metropolis heart and startlingly stunning nature, Dubrovnik combines every thing we love about Croatia into one storied metropolis. The Outdated City is a one-way ticket again to the fifteenth century, with adventures and secrets and techniques hovering round every flip. As for the surroundings, properly, the Dalmatian Coast doesn’t disappoint.

In relation to the perfect issues to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia vacationers could have a full slate of choices. Your day can begin early having fun with a espresso in a 600-year-old sq. and finish by watching the solar go down from an ultra-modern beachfront bar.

With no scarcity of sights, it may be tough sifting via the highlights. So maintain our Dubrovnik information useful so you possibly can greatest discover this magical metropolis.

The High Issues to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

In case you are a Recreation of Thrones fan Dubrovnik will look extremely acquainted because it was the town used for “King’s Touchdown” within the sequence. Loads of the locations featured within the in style sequence are right here in Dubrovnik and must be visited as a part of your time within the metropolis. However, even you probably have no concept what Recreation of Thrones is, you’ll fall in love with this stunning seaside metropolis in a heartbeat.

1. The Dubrovnik Cathedral

Draped in beautiful Baroque fashion structure, the Dubrovnik Cathedral is a standout in a metropolis laden with historical buildings. From the surface courtroom space, you would gaze for hours upon the polygonal recess full with a pristine domed roof. However the present doesn’t finish there, with the landmark changing into ever extra intriguing as you enterprise inside.

In any other case referred to as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the unique constructing was accomplished within the sixth century. However an earthquake introduced it to the bottom (a standard theme all through Dubrovnik, Croatia). Its substitute stands earlier than you at present, one whose inside is simply as sensible because the elegant facade.

Harboring three opulent aisles, the cathedral is residence to a sequence of remarkable items of artwork courting way back to the 1500s. However it’s the Cathedral Treasury that’s maybe most memorable with over 100 holy relics, gold, silver, part of the cross that Jesus was crucified upon, and St. Blaise, the town’s patron saint.

2. The Outdated Metropolis Partitions in Outdated City

The fantastic a part of touring via Dubrovnik, Croatia is that you just don’t have to go to a museum to see its wonderful historical past. It’s written all around the metropolis, in its buildings, cobblestone streets, and most notably alongside the Outdated Metropolis Partitions. Initially developed to guard the Pearl of the Adriatic, the partitions had been a serious a part of Dubrovnik’s ascension to a UNESCO World Heritage Web site.

The Dubrovnik metropolis partitions had been first developed within the seventh century however the partitions of mortar and limestone that you just see at present had been constructed 800 years later. The redevelopment was spurred on by the autumn of Constantinople and helped shield the town, with heights reaching as much as 20 toes and the wall typically simply as thick.

Dubrovnik Metropolis Partitions envelopes the Outdated City for 1.2 miles and can take you round an hour to stroll the whole size. An effective way to expertise the Outdated City is to soar on this strolling tour.

3. Loggia Sq.

Within the coronary heart of the pedestrian-only Outdated City, Loggia Sq. is the place you’ll discover among the most historic buildings in Dubrovnik. From the sq., you’ll be capable of see the Church of St. Blaise (Dubrovnik’s patron saint), Orlando’s Column, and the Onofrio Fountain. All have been a fixture in native life for hundreds of years, however none are as famend because the Loggia of the Bells.

That is the chief attraction within the sq. and was in-built 1480. The bells had been used as a warning system throughout instances of unrest. At the moment it gives a focus in a plaza that’s as taking place as ever. When visiting Loggia Sq., discover a good spot to benefit from the in style assembly level the place life goes on because it at all times has.

4. Pile Gate

One of many principal sights alongside Dubrovnik’s Metropolis Partitions is Pile Gate. For a whole lot of years, it was the principle entrance into the Outdated City of Dubrovnik. Actually, it was as soon as surrounded by a moat with the addition of a drawbridge. The bridge was raised at evening, stopping any unwelcomed guests from coming into.

In trendy instances, the drawbridge at Pile Gate stays down and the moat is now a nice backyard. The pedestrian-only bridge exhibits few indicators of age with the medieval partitions rising imposingly to both aspect. As you stroll via the gate’s tunnel, you’ll be capable of envision the numerous others who’ve handed via for the reason that 1500s. On the opposite aspect, you’ll discover the principle avenue of the Outdated City, together with the Statue of St. Blaise.

5. The Fountain of Onofrio

After making your method via Pile Gate, you’ll have however a brief stroll to the memorable Fountain of Onofrio. Developed within the 1440s, the fountain is now one of many high Dubrovnik sights. However lengthy earlier than this, it was an necessary supply of water to residents because it introduced water in from the Dubrovacka River to the Outdated City. For over 200 years, the Fountain of Onofrio remained untouched. Nevertheless, a serious earthquake in 1667 diminished its dimension however fortunately not its aura.

Behind the fountain is St. Saviour Church. This opened within the Sixteenth century after a power of divine intervention prevented an earlier earthquake from harming Dubrovnik. Apparently, regardless of its proximity to the fountain, the church escaped any injury within the earthquake of 1667.

6. The Stradun of Dubrovnik

As Dubrovnik’s principal avenue, the Stradun is the centerpiece of the pedestrian-only Dubrovnik Outdated City. For many who like to stroll and wander, that is the place to start out. Strolling down the historic avenue is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Dubrovnik.

Also referred to as the Placa, the Stradun is the place Dubrovnikans collect earlier than making their method round city. Come right here for some pleasant folks watching out of your cozy cafe patio earlier than having fun with a stroll.

The road could also be brief, however you’ll discover a sequence of taking place eateries, boutique outlets, and the well-known clock tower. Between them are rows of residential houses that stand beside one another in good symmetry. The attention-grabbing structure will cease you in your tracks, so make sure that to have your digicam useful.

7. The Franciscan Monastery

One of many highlights of the Stradun is the Franciscan Monastery. The monastery stands quietly across the nook from Pile Gate, providing you with a touch of the relative peace that exists behind its partitions. From inside, you’ll depart the bustling principal avenue behind.

Constructed within the 1300s, the monastery options the third oldest pharmacy on earth. Vacationers can enterprise again via the historical past of native medication and peruse the jars and measuring gadgets that helped residents from the day it opened its doorways in 1317.

After exploring the pharmacy, make your method via the Franciscan Monastery’s unbelievable assortment of historical scripts. Right here, you’ll discover arguably essentially the most useful library within the nation, with over 21,000 uncommon manuscripts. Alongside the library is an equally fascinating museum residence to a nice artwork assortment and artifacts.

8. Fort Lovrijenac

It’s honest to say the wealthy historical past of Dubrovnik can be vastly totally different with out its defenses, such because the Outdated City Partitions. However on the forefront of this was Fort Lovrijenac, offering a protecting eye over the Adriatic Sea and alongside the Dalmatian Coast.

Lovrijenac stands on the western finish of the Outdated City of Dubrovnik and is a veritable fortress standing 120 toes above the coast. It harbors a hanging presence and proved to be impenetrable all through its storied historical past.

Its partitions, that are 40 toes thick, had been developed in underneath 3 months by a motivated populace. They’d caught wind of Venetian forces hoping to construct their very own fort right here, solely to be overwhelmed to the punch.

Guests will rapidly discover the distinctive format of the fort with its triangular designs. Reasonably poignantly, this made it nearly unimaginable for Venetian forces to later make any headway.

St. John Fortress is one other one to discover. The Sixteenth-century fort is now residence to the town’s aquarium and maritime museum.

9. Journey the Cable Automotive

The Dubrovnik cable automotive will take you excessive above the attractive metropolis for some picture-perfect views. The cable automotive journey lasts for round 10 minutes, rapidly sweeping you up the mountainside to the summit of Mount Srd, 1350 toes above Dubrovnik. Starting in 1969, the cable automotive stays as in style as ever and even runs till midnight throughout peak vacationer season.

Out of your spot atop the mountain, you’ll be capable of gaze down upon the turquoise Dalmatian Coast and the terracotta rooftops that dot the Outdated City. From the summit, there’s a path that can take you to the Imperial Fortress, the place you’ll discover the Homeland Battle Museum and the romantic Panorama Restaurant.

Wherever you find yourself, make sure that to discover a view for golden hour for among the best sundown experiences on the town. If you need some assist then this tour takes you to all of the excessive lookouts in Dubrovnik.

10. Banje Seashore

From Mount Srd, eager eyes will be capable of look down on Banje Seashore, the highest spot for a day on the sand. Banje Seashore is the proper different to exploring the Outdated City. For as stunning because the historic district is, generally you simply want some R&R.

Banje Seashore has a enjoyable character. Its vivid white sand mixes completely with the electrical blue water, making a sight that’s effortlessly beautiful. After a number of days of busy explorations, relax and watch the world go by.

The refreshing waters of the Adriatic Coast will provide help to cool off in the course of the heat summer season months. Its calm water additionally makes for excellent sea kayaking and adventures on a SUP. For food and drinks, you received’t must go far to search out the waterfront bars and eating places that line the Seashore.

11. Rector’s Palace

As each an astonishing piece of structure and residential to one of many metropolis’s greatest museums, visiting Rector’s Palace is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The palace was in-built 1435 and has misplaced none of its grandeur, regardless of many makes an attempt by man and nature.

That includes a mixture of Renaissance and Gothic types, Rector’s Palace was broken by explosions, fireplace, and earthquakes, solely to be rebuilt every time. Now, as secure as ever, the palace is residence to the Cultural Historic Museum. Right here, you’ll uncover Dubrovnik’s Medieval period in incredible element, together with many distinguished works from the Renaissance.

Afterward, enterprise into the attractive courtyard that stands within the coronary heart of Rector’s Palace. In case you’re fortunate, you’ll arrive in time for a dwell music efficiency.

12. Go Sea Kayaking

Alongside the storied Dalmatian Coast are hints of eras previous. From the Metropolis Partitions to historical forts, a lot has occurred. Add within the glowing blue water of the Adriatic Sea and glistening white seashores, and you’ll see why Dubrovnik is a good place to go sea kayaking.

From the water, you’ll have a special perspective of the town, one that’s much more pronounced with the assistance of an skilled information on a kayaking tour. On this guided tour, embark from Banje Seashore and study extra in regards to the unbelievable shoreline that has modified native and worldwide historical past.

As you paddle, you’ll be capable of see into the translucent water the place fish swim by. Touring its zenith with a paddle over to Lokrum Island, the place you’ll swim into Betina Cave.

13. Go to Lokrum Island

Whereas there are sea kayaking excursions that can take you over to the serene Lokrum Island, it’s not the one approach to discover the particular place. Actually, you received’t even have to lift a sweat. From the Outdated Port, embark on a brief ferry journey to the island.

Having wandered down the Stradun and visited historical church buildings and museums, Lokrum Island would be the good complement to your travels. The island is devoid of residents when you ignore the colony of peacocks. As you discover the island, you’ll come throughout inland saltwater lakes enveloped by dense forests, a botanical backyard, and even a nudist seaside.

However even in paradise, Dubrovnik’s historical past continues to be current. Away from the lakes and seashores is an Eleventh-century Benedictine monastery and Fort Royal Citadel. The latter was constructed by the French underneath Napoleon.

14. Recreation of Thrones Tour

As you go to Dubrovnik and certainly the remainder of Croatia, chances are you’ll discover among the websites eerily acquainted. As we talked about above, the town and nation are residence to among the most memorable Recreation of Thrones filming areas. These helped kind the premise of what made the present such successful because it was ready to make use of actual historic landmarks from world wide.

The fantastic information for vacationers is how accessible these websites are, with or with out a tour. Among the aforementioned sights had been filming areas, most notably King’s Touchdown, which was filmed in Dubrovnik Outdated City. One other spotlight is Blackwater Bay, the place the notorious battle for the fictional metropolis passed off.

Though you possibly can see these by yourself, this Recreation of Thrones tour will additional peel again the curtain on the present, together with the place Cersei did her stroll of disgrace.

15. Museum of Fashionable Artwork

The Museum of Fashionable Artwork first opened its doorways in 1945. Since then, its assortment has grown whereas changing into the foremost gallery in Dubrovnik. Those that love their artwork ought to add the museum to their itinerary with sufficient time to peruse their in depth assortment of over 3,000 items.

The MOMAD showcases among the greatest native and nationwide abilities. These are proven alongside some famend worldwide luminaries. The strongest part of the museum is the trendy artwork interval that started within the late nineteenth century and lasted till the Second World Battle.

For these unaware of nice Croatian artists, as you discover the Museum of Fashionable Artwork, maintain your eyes out for the names Marko Murat, Niko Miljan, and Marko Rasica.

16. The Dominican Monastery

The Dominican Monastery was first dreamed up within the 14th century. Authentic plans had been so grand and in depth that Dubrovnik needed to take away and re-establish elements of Metropolis Partitions. Upon completion, it stood till the tragic earthquake that shocked the town in 1667. From there, it was faithfully rebuilt from the underside up.

These visiting Dubrovnik could have the possibility to admire the monastery’s well-known Gothic cloisters and the in depth artwork assortment with items courting again to the fifteenth century.

Most guests will make a beeline for the Franciscan Monastery, typically leaving this attraction with few crowds. Take your time to take pleasure in a extra peaceable expertise as you gaze upon artwork and golden relics earlier than kicking again within the ornate courtyard as birds flutter above.

17. Montenegro Day Journey

The most effective day journeys you possibly can take from Dubrovnik is the one to Montenegro. The small nation is a brief and scenic two-hour drive away and gives a special but equally magical expertise for vacationers.

Montenegro has charming surroundings in spades together with charming old-time villages. Due to its diminutive dimension, it’s simple to discover all of it in a brief interval. This guided day journey actually allows you to see all of it.

When you’ve arrived in Montenegro, head to Budva. This coastal city has all of the makings of a medieval village, together with its personal walled metropolis and terracotta rooftops. After embarking on a self-guided strolling tour, head to the Bay of Kotor to find an epic fjord.

In your method again to Dubrovnik, cease by the Dumitor Nationwide Park for a hike into the hills.

18. Sponza Palace

Identical to the Church of St. Blaise, Sponza Palace managed to flee the wrath of the 1667 earthquake. This makes the palace, which was developed within the early Sixteenth century, one of many oldest buildings within the metropolis.

For the reason that starting, the palace has been a distinguished secular constructing with its exterior plaza taking part in host to retailers and merchants for over 400 years. At the moment, you possibly can even see markings on the palace wall reminding marketgoers to not swindle different members of the neighborhood.

Structure aficionados may admire the facade of Sponza Palace for an extended whereas. However those that enterprise inside will discover a constructing that’s now residence to the town’s archives. Come uncover over 100,000 paperwork, a few of that are from the tenth century.

19. The Pink Historical past Museum

A lot of your time inside Dubrovnik’s Outdated City will probably be spent discovering and admiring an historical tradition. However a lot has occurred in Croatia since then, particularly in the course of the twentieth century. For a contemporary tackle native historical past, you’ll want to go to the Pink Historical past Museum.

The museum explores the communist reign of the Yugoslav Federation from 1945 to 1991. The museum spans from humble beginnings, having been began by a bunch of buddies who needed to inform this story and that of the Homeland Battle.

Guests can get to know life underneath the regime and the conflict that ended it whereas testing artifacts equivalent to interval furnishings, outdated magazines, and comb books.

20. Elafiti Islands

North alongside the Dalmatian Coast is the Elafiti Islands. This small archipelago will completely complement your time at Lokrum Island and enhance your love for Croatia’s epic surroundings.

The Elafiti Islands are made up of six intriguing specks of land, with two of them being fully devoid of site visitors. Having hung out within the boisterous Outdated City and seeing the cruise ships hand around in the West Harbour, this will probably be an considerable change of tempo.

Excessive on the agenda must be the attractive village of Lopud. Right here, you’ll spot an historical fort wanting over a city the place slender streets carry collectively outdated monasteries, houses, and vibrant gardens. Different locations to go to embrace the fruit groves on Sipan and the forests on Kolocep. This day journey to the Islands is the proper approach to get pleasure from all they’ve to supply.

21. Go on a Wine Tour

The gorgeous world that surrounds Dubrovnik isn’t only for wanting. The local weather has led to Croatia being a famend wine-growing nation. Just like the native buildings, wine-growing has lengthy been part of the nation’s historical past, with Croatia residence to 300 wine districts.

From the Croatian Uplands to Slavonia and Danube, there isn’t a scarcity of remarkable wines and distinct grapes. Dubrovnik falls throughout the Dalmatia area and there are a lot of wineries which are price visiting.

A automotive rental might turn out to be useful, however when you simply wish to benefit from the wine and the surroundings, then embark on this tour. Get pleasure from quite a lot of wine tastings whereas additionally exploring the birthplace of Marco Polo.

22. The Cliff Bars

Talking of boozy enjoyable, the easiest way to have a good time your time in Dubrovnik is by visiting one of many metropolis’s well-known cliff bars. These bars are set upon out of doors terraces, providing panoramic views as vibrant because the cocktail in your hand.

With the bars dealing with west, you possibly can sit again and sip as golden hour takes over the horizon, portray the sky in shades of heat colours. Beneath you, the Metropolis Partitions take in the day’s final mild and the waves crash down on the seaside.

Journey Ideas for Dubrovnik, Croatia

Wake Up Early

Day trippers to Dubrovnik will rapidly fill the busy Outdated City streets come noon. Get up early to discover earlier than they arrive.

Keep away from the Cruise Ships

In an analogous vein, when you see a cruise ship within the port, it could be time to embark on a day journey to the encircling islands or into the mountains.

Preserve Your Passport Useful

Dubrovnik is basically surrounded by Montenegro and Bosnia. Even for brief day journeys, maintain your passport useful in case it’s important to cross a border.

How you can Get to Dubrovnik?

The only approach to get to Dubrovnik, Croatia, is by airplane. Dubrovnik Airport has a number of direct flights from worldwide locations together with common flights from Zagreb and Break up.

Driving via Croatia is as scenic as it’s simple. The nation has an incredible freeway system that makes it a breeze to get from A to B. Nevertheless, if touring by automotive, you’ll must move via Bosnia and Herzegovina for only a few miles.

Public transport is your third choice with busses departing from Zagreb. Boats additionally depart from Break up.

Getting Round Dubrovnik

Most of your time in Dubrovnik will revolve across the Outdated City. The historic district may be very small, solely taking round 10 minutes to stroll from one finish to the opposite.

This implies all sights are inside strolling distance, after you have made it via the gates. In case you’re staying on the sting or throughout the Outdated City, you received’t have a lot to fret about.

Nevertheless, that a part of city may be fairly costly, particularly in the course of the summer season. In case you keep additional out, the native bus community covers a lot of the metropolis.

In case you’re taking the native bus, think about getting a Dubrovnik Card. This may cowl your price of transport whereas offering free entry to many high sights.

The Greatest Time to Go to Dubrovnik

The nice and cozy temperatures make visiting Dubrovnik in the summertime the most well-liked. However vacationers must put together themselves to courageous the crowds, particularly within the small and cramped Outdated City.

For that reason, you possibly can’t beat touring right here within the shoulder seasons. Late spring and early fall will nonetheless have beach-worthy temperatures and resort room charges may also drop.

Funds vacationers ought to think about April and October. Though it may be a bit colder, sights and lodges received’t be as costly and you’ll expertise the historic metropolis with decrease crowds.

The place to Keep in Dubrovnik?

As we talked about above, lodging costs fluctuate based mostly on the time of 12 months. That is normal in lots of vacationer cities however is arguably extra pronounced in Dubrovnik.

Take into account that Dubrovnik isn’t a budget-friendly vacation spot. There are methods round this, however what could also be a decently priced resort in April may very well be double the worth come June. For a extra in-depth look, try our article on the place to remain in Dubrovnik.

Flats Lora gives the comforts of your individual residing house with out the hefty price ticket. You’re only some minutes from the seaside and underneath 2,000 toes from the Outdated City and also you’ll have entry to a non-public kitchen and communal terrace with sea views.

Keep contained in the Metropolis Partitions at La Vita e Bella. The absolutely furnished items are steps from the Stradun and the Franciscan Monastery and some minutes from the seaside. Friends may also have entry to the airport shuttle.

The Pucic Palace places you within the coronary heart of the Outdated City whereas staying in your individual baroque palace from the 1700s. Get pleasure from elegant furnishings, an on-site restaurant and wine bar plus easy accessibility to the Stradun and the seaside.