Pearl of the Adriatic
Dubrovnik, a stunning coastal city in southern Croatia, is renowned for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts baroque buildings, limestone streets, and breathtaking views of the shimmering Adriatic. From its rich history to its modern fame as a filming location for “Game of Thrones,” Dubrovnik offers a unique blend of past and present.
Essential Dubrovnik Information
- Language: Croatian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Currency: Croatian Kuna (HRK)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET) UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Visas: Croatia is part of the European Union but not yet in the Schengen Area. Check visa requirements before travel.
- Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants if service charge is not included
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Old Town
The heart of Dubrovnik, Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site enclosed by ancient walls. Stay here to be surrounded by historical landmarks, restaurants, and shops. However, be prepared for crowds during peak season and higher prices.
Ploce
Located east of Old Town, Ploce offers stunning views of the city walls and Lokrum Island. It’s home to some of Dubrovnik’s most luxurious hotels and provides a quieter alternative to Old Town while still being within walking distance.
Lapad
A peninsula northwest of Old Town, Lapad is known for its beautiful beaches and leafy parks. It’s a great choice for families and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.
Gruz
Gruz is Dubrovnik’s main port area, offering a more authentic local experience. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a less touristy environment. The area has good transport links to Old Town and other parts of the city.
Pile
Located just outside the western entrance to Old Town, Pile offers easy access to the city’s main attractions. It’s a good compromise between the bustle of Old Town and the quieter outlying areas, with several hotels offering sea views.
Must-See Sights in Dubrovnik
- City Walls: Walk the iconic walls surrounding Old Town for panoramic views of the city and sea.
- Stradun: Explore the main pedestrian street of Old Town, lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
- Rector’s Palace: Visit this Gothic-Renaissance palace, now a museum showcasing Dubrovnik’s history.
- Lovrijenac Fortress: Climb to this imposing fort for stunning views and “Game of Thrones” filming locations.
- Dubrovnik Cable Car: Ride to the top of Srd Hill for breathtaking views of the Old Town and Adriatic islands.
- Lokrum Island: Take a short boat trip to this nature reserve, home to peacocks, botanical gardens, and secluded beaches.
Discover Dubrovnik’s Hidden Gems
- Buza Bar: A cliffside bar with stunning sea views, accessed through a hole in the city walls.
- Dominican Monastery: A peaceful oasis in Old Town with a beautiful cloister and art collection.
- Trsteno Arboretum: A lush botanical garden featured in “Game of Thrones,” located just outside the city.
- War Photo Limited: A powerful photography museum documenting the Yugoslav Wars and other global conflicts.
- Betina Cave Beach: A secluded pebble beach accessible only by boat, offering a quiet escape from the crowds.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Dubrovnik Dishes
- Black Risotto: A seafood risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive color and flavor.
- Peka: A traditional dish of meat or seafood and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid.
- Fresh Oysters: Sourced from nearby Ston, known for some of the best oysters in the world.
- Rozata: A local dessert similar to crème caramel, flavored with rose liqueur.
- Plavac Mali Wine: A robust red wine produced in the nearby Peljesac peninsula.
6 Essential Tips for Visiting Dubrovnik
- Visit in Shoulder Season: Aim for May-June or September-October to avoid peak crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Dubrovnik Card: Purchase this card for free entry to top attractions and public transport.
- Early Morning Exploration: Visit popular sites early to avoid crowds, especially the City Walls.
- Beach Shoes: Pack water shoes for comfort on the pebble beaches.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle; tap water is safe to drink and there are public fountains in Old Town.
- Sunset at Fort Lovrijenac: Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from this historic fortress.
How to Get to Dubrovnik
Air: Dubrovnik is served by Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), located about 20 km southeast of the city center.
- Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): Handles both domestic and international flights, with increased traffic during summer months. It’s well-connected to major European cities, with some seasonal transatlantic flights.
The airport is connected to the city by shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers. During peak season, it’s advisable to book airport transfers in advance.
Sea: Dubrovnik is a popular stop for cruise ships and can be reached by ferry from several Italian ports and other Croatian coastal cities.
Bus: Dubrovnik is well-connected by bus to other Croatian cities and some neighboring countries. The main bus station is located in Gruz harbor.
Note: Dubrovnik is not connected to Croatia’s rail network. The nearest major rail hub is Split, about 4 hours north by bus or car.
