Exploring Dubrovnik

Our road trip concluded in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The city’s stunning medieval walls and terracotta rooftops were a sight to behold as we approached from the winding coastal road.

Arriving in Dubrovnik felt like moving across time. Located halfway between the sea and the mountains, the city boldly exhibits its old stone walls! Ascending from the gorgeous hilltop, our excitement rose as we were ready to see one of the best-preserved medieval cities on Earth.

We arrived at our Airbnb, perched at the very top of Dubrovnik’s hillside. From the balcony, we could see Lokrum Island and the beautiful Adriatic Sea unhindered in a panoramic fashion.

We dropped off our bags, then returned the rental vehicle and started around the Old Town.

Approaching Dubrovnik’s renowned gates and walking through its cobblestone alleys was like entering another age. Lunch was at the seafood restaurant Lokanda Peskarija on the harbor. A distinctive start to Dubrovnik’s gourmet scene, the fresh seafood and regional cuisine paired with the marina’s vista produced lifelong memories.

The day carried on as we drifted through Old Town’s complex network of little lanes. Every turn revealed additional secret gems—quaint cafés, little shops, and old buildings that suggested the rich history of the city. Dubrovnik’s historic attractiveness and unique atmosphere proved its title as “Pearl of the Adriatic” was justified.

We were happy to be back at our flat at the tranquil top of the city after a busy day of wandering. From the balcony, with the sun sinking over Lokrum Island, our first day in Dubrovnik had the perfect finish—a blend of natural beauty and historical awe. From this vantage point, which would become our daily refuge, Dubrovnik’s charm throughout our three-day trip would be visible.

Every moment in this city, whether we were meandering around the Old Town, savoring regional food, or seeing the sunset over the Adriatic, was unforgettable and a perfect end to our road journey throughout Croatia.

What to do in Dubrovnik:

 

Visit Dubrovnik’s City Walls.

One of the most iconic activities in Dubrovnik is walking the 1.2-mile-long city walls. It offered spectacular views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. The ancient fortifications provided amazing views of the city enriched with history, showcasing its blend of medieval and Mediterranean charm.

The city walls of Dubrovnik encircled the Old Town like a protective embrace, standing as a testament to the city’s strength and resilience through centuries of change. Strolling along these ancient stone fortifications rewarded us with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik on the other.

The walls, punctuated by formidable towers and gates, told stories of the city’s rich history. A local had explained to us that although these walls have stood for centuries, they had never experienced a true conflict until the war in the 1990s. Throughout history, Dubrovnik avoided many conflicts. They say that when Napoleon arrived, they opened their gates to his army rather than fight and be under siege!

Each step along the walls brought us closer to Dubrovnik’s past, offering a unique perspective on a city that has preserved its heritage with pride.

You can visit the City Walls year-round. During the high season, visit the walls in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Get lost in the side streets of the Stari Grad. 

Getting lost in the side streets of Stari Grad, “Dubrovnik’s Old Town,” feels like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a captivating maze of cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and striking fortresses overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Every area of Dubrovnik’s Old Town offers a little history and charm. The towering stone walls, polished from centuries of footsteps, guided us through winding streets lined with rustic homes, quaint shops, and inviting cafes. The sound of bells ringing from ancient churches echoed through the alleys while you heard locals chatting in lively squares under the warm Adriatic sun.

The blend of past and present in Dubrovnik’s Old Town captivates, inviting you to immerse yourself in its enchanting ambiance.

Go through Pile Gate, and people watch along Stradun.

When in Dubrovnik, do what the locals do. Have coffee, and people watch along the famed Stradun Street, which goes through the Old Town. You’ll spot locals dressed like they’re coming off a runway and some unique tourists from all over the world.

Pile Gate is located at the western entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town and is one of the main points of entry into the historic city. It was built in the 16th century; this grand gate was part of Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls and led directly onto Stradun, the Old Town’s main street. The gate consisted of both an outer and inner gate, with a stone bridge and a moat that once served as part of the city’s defense system. Just outside Pile Gate, you’ll find a bustling area with access to buses, taxis, and scenic coastal views, making it a popular starting point for exploring Dubrovnik’s historic heart.

Visit the local beaches

Dubrovnik has too many beaches to list them all, and some are busier with tourists than others. There are several additional beaches that many visitors may not even be aware of, even if Banje Beach is the most well-known. There are no harmful species or sharks in the water.

When cliff jumping, use caution. Although many places seem secure, visitors often hurt themselves on subterranean rocks (particularly at Buza Bar).

Kayak or snorkel in the Adriatic

Stroll through Uvala in Lapad

Uvala, the heart of Lapad in Dubrovnik, is a picturesque bay that blends the serenity of nature with the lively energy of seaside life. Uvala’s pedestrian promenade is lined with charming cafes, inviting beach bars, and family-friendly restaurants, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed day or evening out. It is about a 20-minute walk outside the Old Town. As the sun sets, Uvala transforms, with locals and travelers gathering to enjoy the soft, golden light that makes this beautiful bay feel even more enchanting.

Hike to the top of Mount Srd.

Seeing Dubrovnik from the top of Srd is a must. A short hike or cable car ride takes you to its summit, where a panoramic view unfolds, capturing the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the lush green of Lokrum Island, and the distant sparkle of the open sea. At the top, the Fort Imperial stands as a reminder of Dubrovnik’s resilience, bearing witness to historic battles and the region’s enduring spirit. Watching the sunset from Mount Srđ, as the sky turns shades of orange and pink, you feel connected to the ancient landscape and the timeless beauty of Dubrovnik below.

Take a boat ride over to Cavtat

Taking the boat from Dubrovnik to Cavtat is like setting off on a gentle adventure along the Adriatic coast. The relaxed pace of Cavtat greets you as soon as you step off the boat, making it an ideal getaway for a day of exploring picturesque streets, savoring fresh seafood, and soaking in the beauty of the Adriatic. It is about a 30-minute bus ride from the Old Town. You can also take a boat from the Old Town or many other ports in the Zupa region, like Srebeno, Mlini, and Plat.

The Best Dubrovnik Day Trips

Dubrovnik is an ideal location for taking multiple-day trips to neighboring islands and countries.

Lokrum island

Lokrum is the island directly across from the Old Town and is full of gorgeous gardens, exotic animals, and nude beaches. We devoted our day to exploring the botanical gardens, swimming in secluded coves, and unwinding by the pristine waters.

The island itself has a unique history, and it is supposedly cursed for anyone who stays overnight. Lokrum Island, a lush, green oasis just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik, holds a mystical charm that has captivated travelers for centuries—and Game of Thrones fans alike.

Stepping onto the island, you find yourself in a serene world of botanical gardens, rocky beaches, and peacocks roaming freely through ancient ruins. Lokrum’s historic Benedictine monastery served as a filming location for the legendary city of Qarth, adding an extra layer of intrigue for fans of the series.

Lokrum is a place to be where both history and fantasy come to life because of the island’s enchanting atmosphere and beautiful coastal views.

Explore the walls of Ston and delicious wine and oysters in Peljesac

If you love wine, oysters, or BOTH, you need to make sure you take a tour of the Peljesac peninsula. Much less crowded than the Dubrovnik area and only about an hour away, the Peljesac area is home to some of Croatia’s best wines, seafood, and beaches. Climbing the Great Wall of Europe in Ston is a must.

Wander the Lovrijenac Fortress

Known as Dubrovnik’s “Gibraltar,” it stands proudly on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, just outside the city’s ancient walls. Built to defend Dubrovnik from both invaders and neighboring rivals, the fortress has become a symbol of the city’s resilience and independence. As you explore its mighty stone walls and winding staircases, echoes of history blend with the sound of waves crashing below. From the top, the views are spectacular, with the Old Town’s red rooftops and the endless sea stretching into the horizon. Lovrijenac is not just a fortress—it’s a testament to Dubrovnik’s enduring strength and spirit.

Sunset at Villa Orsula

Spend the evening at the terrace of Villa Orsula, sipping cocktails and watching the sunset over the Adriatic. It was a perfect, serene moment to take in the beauty of Dubrovnik as the day came to a close.

Game of Throne’s Set-Jetting

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the famous filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, was a fascinating experience on a dedicated tour! The tour took us through many of the filming sites while sharing behind-the-scenes stories.

Attend a Rector’s Palace Concert

We enjoyed a clarinet trio performance on our final evening at the Rector’s Palace Atrium, a stunning historic venue in the center of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

The Rector’s Palace Concert in Dubrovnik is an event that takes place in the stunning setting of the Rector’s Palace, a historic Gothic-Renaissance building in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Known for its beautiful architecture and acoustics, the palace provides an intimate and atmospheric venue for classical music performances, often featuring renowned musicians, orchestras, and chamber ensembles. These concerts are part of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, which typically runs from mid-July to late August, although performances and events may also take place throughout the year.

The concert schedule varies, so it’s recommended to check specific dates and times on Dubrovnik’s official cultural or tourism websites, especially if visiting outside the festival period.

Author: Cristy
Photo Credit: Nathan