Known as “The Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik is one of the most fascinating and beautiful locations on the Mediterranean. This historic city of elaborate churches, stone monasteries, museums and decadent fountains is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been well preserved. In the Old Town, the streets are like something from an earlier age, a step back in time to a world of forts and traders markets on the unspoiled Adriatic. Stroll down Stradun, the beautiful limestone main street of the Old City and enjoy your stunning surroundings. The narrow streets and winding laneways of the old city are perfect for wandering and discovering local shops. The mix of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture is a feast for the eyes, as are the beautiful ocean views on the outskirts of the city. For an aerial view of the Old City and the ocean, take a walk atop the wonderful city walls. This really is a special treat and one that you will not regret. You can take a guided tour to learn more about Dubrovnik’s fascinating history or simply wander along the wall at your own pace, the choice in yours.
Holiday Apartments and Villas in Dubrovnik.
The city’s position on the Adriatic coast and history as an independent state meant the port was always pleasant stopover and safe haven for visitors, and today there is no shortage of accommodation in Dubrovnik. Finding an apartment within the walls of Dubrovnik is difficult and will subsequently cost you a little more, but this will give you great access to attractions and authentic accommodation. Those on a budget can find cheap apartments to rent outside the city’s walls, in the newer but less elaborate parts of the city. These parts however do have nice restaurants and fabulous beaches.
For a luxurious stay, go away from the main hustle and bustle and find a holiday villa near the Adriatic seas. Dubrovnik’s villas are some of the nicest in Southern Europe, and come with plenty of creature comforts including swimming pools and hot tubs. There are some great rentals on offer in Dubrovnik, ranging from elegant apartments to luxurious sea-view villas.
Fun Facts
- Irish writer George Bernard Shaw famously write “Those who search for paradise on earth should come and see Dubrovnik”… following a visit to Dubrovnik
- The city was founded in the 7th century by Roman refugees. The Roman people were forced to flee their town of Epidaurus after an earthquake devastated the region.
- Famously it is believed that King Richard the Lionheart sought refuge here in 1192 following a shipwreck on the return voyage from the Third Crusade.
- Dubrovnik, an independent state at the time, became the first nation to recognise United States independence from Britain.
- Dubrovnik lost its independence in the first time in its long history to Napoleon’s French imperialists in 1808 .
Exploring Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s beauty is not only found in its abundance of churches, museums and other historic buildings, but in its spectacular beaches, jewel-like and calm. Escape the hot city by taking a ferry from the Old Town to Lokrum Island. Here you will find uncrowded, unspoilt beaches, perfect for sunbathing, relaxing and swimming. The best swimming areas are reached from ladders on the rocks. These rocks are also a popular place to spend a summers day picnicking and catching up with friends and family. Artlovers will be very interested to discover Bukovac House (Kuća Bukovac) which houses some of the best work of the most famous Croat modern painter Vlaho Bukovac. Alongside his exhibited work are further rooms exhibiting the work of many up and coming artists from across Croatia. One of the most popular, but also hugely worthwhile activites in Dubrovnik is exploring the ancient city walls. Tours of the walls offer amazing views of the surrounding region and the seas, as well as throwing up a completely new perspective of Dubrovnik and its sights. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to tour the whole area around the walls around the Old Town. The best time for this tour is in the early morning or the late afternoon to avoid the heat. If you enjoy these views then you should also check out the ones from Fort Lovrijenac for a picture perfect sunset. Rising from an rocky outcrop overlooking the old town, this fort has a great history and gives you stunning views over the city and out onto the sea. Tip: If you visit both the city walls and the fort on the same day, you get a discount on the entrance cost!