Named the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik has easily topped the list as one of travellers favourite cities. The walls in the Old City area are in such fantastic condition that it is hard to believe this place is real.
If you’re thinking of stopping by Dubrovnik for day or two, please do – this beautiful city deserves even just a few hours’ stops.
Explore the Old City
Explore each corner, each alley, and each gate within the stone walls. Stop by Onofrio’s Fountain to refill your water bottle when you get thirsty. It’s clean- you can drink it right from the tap.
Did I mention it’s also leg day every day in Dubrovnik? Seriously, it was like we were constantly using the StairMaster. (which was great, because we didn’t need to work out!)
Walk the City Walls
This is a must-do thing. The entrance fee is 35 Euros, but you get a discount if you keep your ticket stub from Fort Lovrijenac.
The view of the orange rooftops against the deep blue sea will take your breath away. Allow at least 2 hrs to complete the whole circuit and wear comfortable shoes.
Beautiful sights, yes, but in the middle of the summer, it can be hot and humid. Try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, otherwise, you’ll be roasted. Make sure you stay hydrated and load up on sunscreen because there’s no shade up there. Prepare yourself if you’re doing this in the summer.
Take a Game of Thrones Tour
GoT has brought in millions of dollars to Croatia’s tourism revenue. If you’re not a fan of this HBO series, this half-day of nerdgasm may not be for you. But if you’re a fan don’t miss out. Having been one of the extras in GoT, our guide was extremely knowledgeable and kept the whole tour upbeat and fun. It was awesome seeing where all the different scenes were filmed.
Wine Tasting
For a great night out, check out D’vino Wine Bar. It’s a cosy little bar right in the heart of the Old City. They offer an impressive selection of wines, both domestic and imported, at a surprisingly affordable price.
The place is quite small and it can get really busy. It’d be wise to make reservations in advance. Order wine tasting flight, red or white and a cheese platter and enjoy your evening.
Cable Car to Mount Srdj
Go on a 5-minute ride by cable car that will take you to the top of Mount Srdj for an extraordinary view of the coast.
You can also hike up and down the plateau if you’re up for the challenge and if you wear appropriate shoes. There is a lovely restaurant and cafe at the top where you can enjoy a drink or two with breathtaking views.
The cost of the cable car is about 23 Euro.
Trip to Lokrum Island
To escape from the crowds and blistering sun, take a short 15-minute ferry ride over to the Island of Lokrum.
The paths on the island are shaded with clear signs showing you the different points of interest.
Bring a swimsuit to swim in the sea. Enjoy swimming in the lovely clean Adriatic sea and get a pebble as a souvenir from one of Lokrum beaches.
You might even see some peacocks strolling around. This is also where the iron throne replica is if you’re a fan.
Visit Fort Lovrijenac
Just a few minutes from Pile Gate on foot, this is the ‘Red Keep’ from Game of Thrones where several scenes were filmed here.
Hike up the lush green landscape to get a good view of the Old City. There isn’t too much to see within the fort, but the view from the top is phenomenal. Make sure you experience this both in the day and at night.
Sunset Dinner with Views
Don’t just ride the cable car for the view – stay for dinner too. The amazing Restaurant Panorama offers the most fantastic views over the Old City.
To ensure you’d be seated at the best table in the house, make a table reservation well in advance. The open-air concept offers a magnificent sight as the sun sets over the Adriatic Sea as you enjoy your meal.
The prices are quite fair, too- it’s actually not any more expensive than the restaurants within the walls. If you’re looking for a romantic night out in Dubrovnik, this is it!
Stay Outside of City Walls
It may be tempting to stay in the centre of the action, but you’re actually much better off finding accommodation outside the gates. Not only are there more options, but you’ll also wake up with a beautiful view of the Old City from your bedroom window.
You can choose to stay in any Airbnb just a 5 to 10-minute walk from the Ploce Gate, local supermarket and Banje Beach. Waking up to this every morning was such a blessing and you will not want to leave.
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