Essential Travel Information for Dubrovnik: Expert Tips

Visit Dubrovnik: Exploring the Gems of Croatia

Dubrovnik, located on the Adriatic Sea, is a remarkable city in Croatia that captivates visitors with its charm and beauty. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik is renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning architecture. It is the most visited places in the city include the Old Town, the Stradun, the Rector's Palace, the Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Walls of Dubrovnik, and Fort Lovrijenac.

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is an amazingly preserved city within the medieval city walls and features cobbled streets, ancient churches, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Exploring the Old Town is like stepping back in time, with its impressive churches, palaces, and squares that tell tales of a rich history. The Stradun is Dubrovnik's main thoroughfare and is lined with shops, restaurants, and palaces that are hundreds of years old. The Rector's Palace is a 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance palace, and its courtyard and ornate interiors are a must-see. The Dubrovnik Cathedral is a Baroque masterpiece and is the main cathedral of the city. The Walls of Dubrovnik are the old defenses of the city and offer incredible views of the city as they extend two miles around the city. Finally, Fort Lovrijenac, an old fort located on the edge of the city, is a great spot to take in the breathtaking view of the city and the sea.

Dubrovnik is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting numerous festivals, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. Whether you're strolling along the city walls, lounging on the beaches, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Dubrovnik offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Here are some must-see attractions in Dubrovnik, completed with hotels nearby.

OLD TOWN

Old Town, Dubrovnik is a charming and picturesque destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Located in the southern part of Croatia, this ancient walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. As you enter through the Pile Gate, you'll be transported back in time to a place where history and culture come alive. The narrow streets are lined with vibrant buildings, adorned with colorful flowers and traditional red-tiled roofs. You'll find yourself lost in a maze of winding alleys and hidden squares, each one telling a unique story. The main street, Stradun, is the heart of the Old Town, bustling with life and filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take a walk along the ancient city walls and marvel at the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding islands. For a deeper look into the city's past, visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral, a magnificent 18th century Baroque building, or the Rector's Palace, a grand structure that once served as the seat of the Dubrovnik Republic. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

DUBROVNIK CATHEDRAL

If you're looking for a place to explore the culture and history of Dubrovnik, then the Dubrovnik Cathedral is a must-visit. The cathedral, located in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, was built in the 12th century and was dedicated to Saint Blaise, the patron saint of the city. The cathedral is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is one of the most important monuments in town. Inside the cathedral, you'll find a number of beautiful artworks, including two of the oldest and most valuable paintings in the city: the 17th-century painting of St. Blaise and the 13th-century painting of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral is also home to a number of other artifacts, such as an 18th-century baptismal font, a 15th-century stone relief, and a collection of old coins. Visitors will also find a number of chapels, such as the Chapel of Saint Lawrence, the Chapel of Saint Peter, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, as well as a crypt and a treasury. The building also serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Dubrovnik, and visitors can attend the daily masses that are held there. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

CITY WALLS

The city walls of Dubrovnik were built between the 12th and 17th centuries as a defense against invaders. The walls of Dubrovnik are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the citizens of the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia since the city's founding in the 7th century. The walls, which run for about 2 km (1.2 mi) in length, are up to 25 m (82 ft) high and are a significant tourist attraction in the city. Despite facing numerous wars and attacks, these walls have stood strong throughout history. A visit to Dubrovnik is incomplete without experiencing the breathtaking activity of walking along these walls. As you make your way to the top, you will feel as though you have been transported back in time, surrounded by ancient stone structures and towering fortifications. The walls are exceptionally well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the past with their impressive array of towers and gates. From this vantage point, you can admire the distinct red-tiled roofs of the old town, the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic, and the lush green island of Lokrum just a short distance away. Not only are the walls a sight to behold, but they also hold a captivating history. Over the centuries, they were continuously fortified and reinforced, each layer representing a different era in Dubrovnik's rich history. These walls played a vital role in the city's survival, acting as a protective shield against invaders and providing a sense of safety and security to its inhabitants. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

FORT LOVRIJENAC

Fort Lovrijenac, also known as the 'Gibraltar of Dubrovnik,' is a magnificent fortress that stands proudly on a 37-meter high cliff, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This impressive structure has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when it was constructed to defend the city of Dubrovnik from Venetian attacks. Over the centuries, Fort Lovrijenac has served as a strategic military base, a treasury, and even a theater. Today, it stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubrovnik, offering visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past and breathtaking views of the city and sea. As you approach the fort, you'll be greeted by its grandiose walls, which are the thickest and tallest among all of Dubrovnik's fortifications. The entrance to the fort is a low, narrow doorway, designed to make it difficult for enemies to enter. Once inside, you'll find yourself in a spacious courtyard, where you can admire the intricate stonework and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. From here, you can also access the fort's main attraction – the stunning terrace that offers panoramic views of the sea and the city. This is a popular spot for taking photos, and it's easy to see why. The crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, the red rooftops of Dubrovnik's old town, and the lush green landscape make for a truly breathtaking sight. HOTELS AND ACTIVITIES NEARBY

BEST TIME TO VISIT DUBROVNIK

There's no better time to visit Dubrovnik than during the summer months of June through August. The summer months offer an unparalleled experience of balmy weather, making it the ideal time to soak up the sun, explore the city's attractions and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The average temperature in the summer months range from 20-25 Celsius, or 68-77 Fahrenheit, with July and August being the hottest months. July is also the peak season in terms of tourism, with the number of visitors to the city increasing exponentially. While the streets can sometimes get crowded and accommodation can be somewhat pricey, the extra vibrancy and energy, as well as the great weather, make it worth the extra effort. May and September are also great months to visit, as the temperatures still remain mild and the attractions and events still remain numerous.

TO OTHER CITIES BY TRAIN

Travelling by train is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful cities connected by rail from Dubrovnik, Croatia. From the magical medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the lively bars and restaurants of Split, the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea to the majestic historical monuments of Zagreb, the train journeys offer a chance to experience a variety of contrasting cultures. Further afield, you can disembark in Montenegro’s vibrant capital Podgorica, or cross the border into Bosnia-Herzegovina for a visit to the walled Old Town in Sarajevo. Alternatively, why not take a side-trip to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park? Whatever destination you choose, you’re sure to be enchanted by the beautiful scenery and captivated by the vibrant personalities of the locals. So book your tickets and prepare for an unforgettable journey – the cities connected by rail from Dubrovnik, Croatia are just waiting to be explored!