It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Croatian Dubrovnik’s popularity may have risen in recent years but it has been in my heart since 2001 when I visited for the first time. In 2001, the city was still recovering after the Croatian War of Independence. The Old Town had been ravaged by battle but was a relatively peaceful area to explore. As I walked around the Old City Walls (which at the time were free), looking over the mismatched tiles and the gappy roofs that smiled at me like an elderly lady, I was struck at how resilient this city is and by its people’s enduring and imposing walls. Pandemics, fires, earthquakes, war—Dubrovnik has weathered them all. A UNESCO World Heritage Site Since 1979, there are broader forces at work to preserve the many treasures of the city for future generations.
What treasures are there? The Old Town is like an open-air art museum. Add to this some exceptional local restaurants, superb boutique hotels, and a smattering of intimate wine bar—and you’re looking at a winning destination. I’ve been back many times since my first visit, and there are always new things to do in Dubrovnik—culture vultures will love the museums, street festivals, and rich history; beach The area is a paradise for nature lovers, while film buffs are sure to recognize many of the locations used in films. The more adventurous can explore the mountains and trails that wind through the landscape.
How many days are required in Dubrovnik
Many people swear by the three-day approach. They feel that it’s enough time to explore the entire city. For me, that wouldn’t be quite enough because you’d miss out on the many day trips you can take from here—Ston, Konavle, the Elaphiti Islands, even down to Herceg Novi, Kotor, and Perast in Montenegro. It depends, however, on the season that you visit. Summer is a popular time to visit. beach vacationYou can stay in Lapad, or any of the hotels located outside the walls of the city, and visit the Old Town only to enjoy the museums and restaurants. Such a rhythm could easily fill one or two weeks—longer still, if the mood takes you.
Winter The weather is a different story. It can be challenging with downpours, storms and other conditions that are almost apocalyptic. It’s the most peaceful and intimate time of year in the city. Weekends are ideal for exploring the city’s atmospheric bars and restaurants. Christmas marketsThe Old Town is magical and mostly quiet during this time, making it a more comfortable place to stay than outlying areas. The Old Town feels more cozy and magical during this period, with a lot of quiet.
It depends on the season and what you need. You will not be disappointed whether it is in the peak of summer or the most romantic and relaxed months of winter.
What is there to do in Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik has enough to offer to keep you busy for several days. It’s especially the case if your plans include excursions to other towns and villages. The Old Town itself can be seen over a couple of leisurely days—it’s compact enough so everything of note lies within comfortable walking distance. Along with the most important historical landmarks, you’ll also find a wide range of museums and art galleries.
There are many options: you can take a boat to nearby islands, hike around the peninsula or visit Konavle to experience traditional village life and wine tasting, as well as Ston to see medieval walls and oysters.
Dubrovnik: Best Things to Do
1. Old City Walls Walk
Dubrovnik’s old city walls are a must see. The fortifications reach heights of up to 82 feet, a testament to Dubrovnik’s strategic importance throughout the centuries. The 1.25 mile circuit provides a look into the history of the city and offers breathtaking views across the Adriatic Sea to Lokrum, and out to the Elaphiti Islands. Take plenty of water and wear sensible shoes. You can refill your bottles at the fountain near the Pile Gate. If you visit in summer, avoid the heat and crowds by going early in the day (8 am) or late in the afternoon.
After you’ve finished, explore the Old Town and wander the narrow streets (where all the cool cats are, literally). Admire the elegant architecture along the Stradun—the city’s grand main thoroughfare—before stepping inside the cathedral and Franciscan monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest functioning pharmacies. Cap it all off with a well-earned beer at Buža Bar, dramatically perched just beneath the ancient walls themselves. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to enjoy the views.
2. Lokrum Island
The route between the Old Harbor and Lokrum Island is served by regular boats. The scenic ride whisks you from city life to an island nature reserve—perfect for a day’s exploring. Visit the Benedictine monastic ruins, swim at the Dead Sea, see wild peacocks and the Iron Throne replica. Game of Thrones After dinner, head back to the old city.
3. Rector’s palace
Rector’s Palace, which was built in 1808 when Dubrovnik was still the Republic of Ragusa is one of Dubrovnik’s best museums to learn its history. It was here that each elected Rector would take up residence for exactly one month—a tradition of rotating governance that lasted until 1808. This Gothic-Renaissance-Baroque palace served as the nerve centre of the republic: government seat, administrative headquarters, courthouse, prison, and armory all rolled into one. Today, you can meander around its atmospheric rooms, including the Rector’s private quarters and bedchamber, as well as the former prison cells—then, if you’re lucky, catch a classical concert in its Renaissance atrium.
4. Ston and the Pelješac Peninsula
The Pelješac Peninsula is renowned for its wine and oysters, making a visit here a great day out. The oysters here have been eaten since Roman times and are best served raw, with a touch of lemon. You can also visit the city in MarchThe Festival of Oysters celebrates the freshest produce in the area. Visit family-owned vineyards, famous for their Dingač and full-bodied Postup wines, made from Plavac Mali grapes. Ston’s medieval walls, which connect Ston with Mali Ston, are worth a walk. These walls were built to defend the Republic of Ragusa, and protect the salt pans. They are the longest in Europe, at 3.1 miles. This has earned them the nickname, “Europe’s Great Wall of China.” You can also visit the saltworks themselves if you’ve got time. If you are planning on doing wine-tasting, then you may want to take the number 15 bus.
