Last Updated on March 10, 2023
Dubrovnik may not be Croatia’s capital city, but it’s undoubtedly one of the country’s heaviest hitters when it comes to charm and culture. Sitting by the Adriatic Sea, this picturesque city attracts visitors from all over, who come to appreciate the medieval sights, atmospheric restaurants, beautiful holiday villas and sublime beaches. Dubrovnik holidays are a step back in time without leaving modern life and if it’s beauty spots you’re after then the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ will not disappoint.
One city, two sides
Your first glimpse of the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik, jutting out into the Adriatic, may be all it takes to fall in love with this Croatian delight. The mustard-colored rooftops, winding cobbled streets and Renaissance architecture all work together to exude a distinctly fairy tale atmosphere. But in this city you can admire century’s old Gothic buildings in the Old Town quarter before dining and drinking in some of the most stylish restaurants and bars in the country. It’s a city of exquisite fountains, monasteries and churches but also a nightlife hotspot filled with jazz cafes, wine bars and lively beach clubs.
The beach life
Clear sea waters, pristine sands and secluded beaches may be the reason this stretch of coastline comes with the tourist slogan ‘the Mediterranean as it once was’. There are no private stretches of coastline in Dubrovnik, which allows visitors access to a wealth of beaches, including those on the islands of nearby Lopud and Kolocep. The hot weather from spring to autumn means you can enjoy swimming, boating and diving for much of the year. Banje is one of the most popular city beaches but don’t miss St. James beach, which is one of the best on the coast and provides superb views of the city.
Explore the area
If you can tear yourself away from the city, then make sure a boat trip to the island of Lokrum to check out the beaches and botanical gardens is part of your itinerary. Alternatively, you can take a thrilling ride on the Dubrovnik cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for unparalleled views of the city and the Adriatic islands. Spend some time exploring the pretty little traditional villages on the islands of Kolocep and Mljet, where you can dine on the freshest catch of the day in the authentic waterfront restaurants. Back in the city, don’t forget to walk around the two-kilometer medieval city walls at least once — they provide the perfect photo opportunity.
This Croatian hotspot will definitely hit the right note whether you’re looking for romantic getaway or a fun, beach and city destination to enjoy with friends. The weather is warm and sunny from spring through autumn, which is ideal if you’re looking for a low-season travel option.
Images by Pero Kvrzica and nicocrisafulli, title image by Thomas Mues. All images used under Creative Commons license.
De'Jav
Tuesday 28th of April 2015
Croatia is definitely one of those places I've heard is a good place to travel. Hopefully next year I'll have to make a trip here.
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
I haven't been in over a decade - a return trip is in order for me, too :)