Discover the Top 7 Things to Do in Dubrovnik!

Are you ready to uncover the hidden gems that make Dubrovnik, Croatia’s top destination, a must-visit city? Nestled within sturdy medieval fortifications, this diminutive old town overlooks the deep blue Adriatic, offering a treasure trove of historical attractions, cultural experiences, and breathtaking coastal scenery. From strolling the iconic city walls to exploring the Baroque-style architecture, Dubrovnik promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated¹.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the 2km (1.25 mile) circuit of Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls, offering stunning views over the old town’s terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea¹.
• Explore the Baroque-style Rector’s Palace, which showcases how local aristocrats once lived¹.
• Indulge in the delectable oysters from Mali Ston Bay, a delicacy enjoyed in Dubrovnik’s old town¹.
• Immerse yourself in the city’s rich maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, featuring a collection of over 5,000 objects².
• Discover the hidden gems of Dubrovnik, from the open-air bars with stunning Adriatic views to the unique concept store KAWA¹.

Explore the Historic Old Town

Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town is a captivating destination that transports visitors back in time. At the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site lies the Stradun, a 300-meter-long (984-foot) limestone-paved promenade that links the city’s two main gates³. The 17th-century Baroque stone buildings that flank the Stradun are home to charming shops and open-air cafes, where you can sip coffee as you people-watch³.

Until 1808, Dubrovnik was a self-governing republic called Ragusa, and each month, a different citizen was chosen to assume the role of Rector, who lived on the upper floor of the 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance Rector’s Palace³. This historic building now houses the Cultural History Museum, offering a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s past³.

Beneath the Maritime Museum, on the ground floor of St John’s Fortress, you’ll find the aquarium, displaying a vast array of Adriatic marine life, and the Bota Oyster & Sushi Bar, where you can savor fresh oysters from nearby Mali Ston Bay⁴. The treasury adjoining Dubrovnik Cathedral also houses a remarkable collection of 138 gold and silver reliquaries, including the skull of St Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint³⁴⁵.

Top things to do in Dubrovnik

Just outside Ploče Gate, KAWA is a concept store stocking one-off clothing items by young Croatian designers, as well as jewelry, tote bags, ceramics, nicely packaged cosmetics, olive oil and rakija (a potent spirit)⁶. On the rocks high above the sea, below Dubrovnik’s south-facing walls, you’ll find two open-air bars, Buža I and Buża II, with rock-and-concrete terraces offering stunning views over the open Adriatic⁷.

The funky Red History Museum shows how people lived in Croatia when it was part of Socialist Yugoslavia, with displays including a series of rooms from a typical 1970s apartment⁷. The Franciscan Monastery pharmacy, founded in 1317, still sells natural hydrating face creams based on rose, lavender and rosemary, prepared according to secret centuries-old recipes⁸.

At the Maritime Museum in St John’s Fortress, you can learn more about Dubrovnik’s former naval power, and at War Photo Ltd, witness the human suffering caused by the break-up of Yugoslavia⁷.

Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle

Dubrovnik’s coastal setting provides a myriad of opportunities to immerse oneself in the region’s maritime heritage. A 10-minute boat ride from the old harbor whisks you away to the enchanting Lokrum Island⁹, a lush, green oasis home to an abandoned 11th-century Benedictine Monastery and a botanical garden teeming with peacocks. For a more adventurous journey, consider joining a sea kayak tour that departs from a small beach near Pile Gate, allowing you to explore the island’s hidden coves and coastline at your own pace¹⁰.

Beyond the confines of Dubrovnik, the city serves as an excellent base for day trips to nearby towns and cities, each offering its own unique charm and historical attractions. Venture to Korčula, the birthplace of the renowned explorer Marco Polo, or explore the enchanting coastal town of Kotor in Montenegro¹⁰. For a taste of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cultural richness, a day trip to Mostar, with its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), is well worth the journey¹⁰.

Whether you choose to island-hop, sea kayak, or embark on a day trip, Dubrovnik’s coastal lifestyle offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty and history of the Adriatic region⁹¹⁰¹¹.

Conclusion

Dubrovnik is a captivating destination that offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions¹². From the iconic city walls to the charming old town, the vibrant coastal lifestyle to the opportunity to explore neighboring destinations, there is something for everyone in this remarkable Croatian city¹²¹³.,

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable travel experience, Dubrovnik is sure to leave a lasting impression¹²¹³¹⁴.,, The city’s stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse activities make it an ideal destination for travelers of all interests and preferences. With easy access to the Elaphiti Islands, Pelješac Peninsula, and other nearby attractions, Dubrovnik offers the perfect base to explore the stunning Croatian coastline and beyond.

From the awe-inspiring Cable Car ride offering panoramic views of the old town to the exhilarating Kayak Tours that allow you to discover hidden coves and beaches, Dubrovnik’s diverse experiences cater to every type of traveler¹²¹⁴., Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, savor the local cuisine, or simply soak up the sun-drenched coastal ambiance, Dubrovnik is sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression on your travel memories.