Dubrovnik, Croatia’s stunning coastal city, boasts a myriad of attractions that blend history, culture, and nature. Here are the top 15 things to do while visiting the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
- Walk the Walls of Dubrovnik: One of the most iconic things to do in Dubrovnik is a walk along the ancient city walls, offering panoramic views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. The almost 2-kilometer long walls encase the city and its history, presenting breathtaking vistas at every corner.
- Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral: This baroque cathedral houses a remarkable treasury filled with relics, including a fragment of the cross on which it is believed Christ was crucified. The stunning artworks and the impressive architecture are sure to leave you in awe.
- Explore the Rector’s Palace: Once the residence of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa, this gothic-renaissance building is now a museum displaying period furniture, coats of arms, and portraits of the city’s aristocracy.
- Experience the Old Town: Meander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, soaking in the unique atmosphere. The pedestrian-only Stradun, the main street, is lined with shops and cafes, offering an authentic local experience.
- Visit Fort Lovrijenac: Known as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar,” this fortress outside the city walls played a vital role in defending the city. Climb up to the fort for a unique perspective of the city and the sea.
- Discover Lokrum Island: Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum is a nature lover’s paradise. Explore its botanical garden, trek to the highest point for stunning views, or take a dip in the small salt lake known as the Dead Sea.
- Tour the Franciscan Monastery: Visit one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe and a library boasting thousands of ancient documents and books. The peaceful cloister offers a retreat from the bustling streets.
- Take a Sea Kayaking Tour: Embark on a sea-kayaking adventure around the city walls and Lokrum Island. It’s a unique way to appreciate the city’s grandeur and the clear Adriatic waters.
- Visit the Dominican Monastery: This 14th-century monastery, with its impressive collection of art, including works by Titian, provides insights into the city’s religious history.
- Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car: For a bird’s eye view of the city, take the cable car up to Mount Srdj. The ride offers magnificent views, and once at the top, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant while soaking in the panorama.
- Explore the Sponza Palace: This gothic-renaissance building has served many purposes, from a customs office and mint to a treasury and bank. Today, it houses the city’s archives, with documents dating back to the 12th century.
- Visit the Dubrovnik Synagogue: The oldest Sephardic synagogue still in use today in the world and the second oldest synagogue in Europe, it tells the story of the Jewish community in Dubrovnik.
- Visit the War Photo Limited: This museum is dedicated to outstanding photojournalism. It gives a graphic account of the impacts of war, including the recent Yugoslav Wars, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
- Take a ‘Game of Thrones’ Tour: As a filming location for the popular television series, you can explore the real-life settings of King’s Landing. A guided tour will reveal filming secrets and show you key locations, including the Red Keep and the Purple Wedding venue
- Take a Wine Tour in Konavle Valley: South of Dubrovnik, the fertile Konavle Valley is renowned for its vineyards. A wine tour will allow you to sample local wines like Malvasia and Plavac Mali, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy the picturesque rural landscapes. Each of these attractions encapsulates a facet of what makes Dubrovnik a remarkable destination. From the fortifications that have defended the city for centuries to the natural beauty of the surrounding islands, from the vibrant local culture reflected in the city’s cuisine and wine to the vestiges of its religious and political history, these experiences weave together the rich tapestry of Dubrovnik. By immersing yourself in these activities, you not only witness the city’s past and present, but also its spirit, resilience, and charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a lover of art and culture, Dubrovnik offers something for every traveler.
