As bewitching as it is beguiling, Dubrovnik has endless things to see and do. Affectionately known as ‘The Pearl of the Adriatic’, this Croatian city is famous for its fascinating Old Town. Moving on from its battle-scarred past, Dubrovnik is now a bustling seaside city which charms with Adriatic beauty, captivates with history and indulges with culture. Dubrovnik will easily pinch the heart strings of even the most discerning traveller.

1. Visit the Old Town

The evocative Old Town is Dubrovnik’s biggest draw. In fact, the Old Town has caught the eye of several film sets including Star Wars VIII and Game of Thrones as well as several A-listers such as Beyoncé, Roman Abramovich, Sir Robert Moor & Bob Geldof (to name a few)

 

2. Take the cable car up Mount Srđ in time for sunset

Zip up to the summit of Mount Srđ and admire views of the Old Town, Adriatic Sea and beyond. On a cloudless day you can see up to 37 miles and no doubt Dubrovnik’s best sunset views can be seen from here. 

3. Kayak around the Old Town

Explore caves, hidden beach coves and be sure to bring a snorkel. Kayaks can be hired from several places around the city and prices vary seasonally.

4. Spend a day on Lokrum Island

600 meters from Dubrovnik’s coastline is the nature reserve of Lokrum Island. The unhurried beauty & forest pools attract locals and tourists alike. The small islet is packed with remarkable flora and fauna including olive trees and Cypress, offering a shaded & peaceful respite from the city. There are also botanical gardens and a Benedictine monastery on the island. The island can be reached by kayak or a short 10-minute ferry. There are a few small cafes with basic refreshments, but we recommend taking water and refreshments.

5. Swim in the cool Adriatic waters

From sand and shingle to rocky platforms, Croatians love swimming and bathing

6. Indulge in the delicious local cuisine & remarkable wines

When visiting Dubrovnik there is a plethora of local delights to try including Croatian pizza, candied orange peel, black risotto & locally grown figs, to name a few… Where wine is concerned, Croatia’s fragrant reds are waiting to be tried.

7. Visit the Elaphiti Islands

The Elaphiti Islands, or ‘Elafiti Islands’, are a collection of 13 islands northwest of Dubrovnik including Lopud, Sipan, Kolocep and a number of smaller uninhabited islands. The lush islands were once favoured by Dubrovnik aristocracy due to their peaceful nature and secluded feel. Still today the islands are unspoilt & dotted with small villages and coastal towns with a relaxed pace of life. The island’s are just a taster of the many Croatian Islands.

Sipan (Shee-pan) – The largest of the Elaphiti Islands, Sipan is the only island with cars. Home to verdant valleys and the charming towns of Sipanska Luka and Sudurad.

Lopud – This traffic free island is well loved for its tranquillity. Lopud is home to Sunj beach one of Croatia’s few sandy beaches. Sunj is a 1.2km bay of white sand and gentle waters. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants.

Kolocep (Kolo-chep) – Kolocep is the closest island to Dubrovnik. This tranquil island is a picture of natural beauty with heavily forested landscapes and very few beaches.

It’s easy to visit all three on a day trip from Dubrovnik with a tour or simply hop on one of the frequent ferries. Ferries take between 40-50 minutes and the journey is beautifully scenic. The islands can also be added to Dubrovnik as a twin-centre thanks to a superb selection of hotels.

 

Credit: Hazel Hammond CC