Top 5 things to do in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, or as Croatians like to call it, the ‘pearl of the Adriatic’ is one of those the cities whose beauty enchants the entire world and which attracts many visitors. This place is rich in historical heritage, and the most valuable part are the impressive city walls. Whether you’re into ancient buildings or not, Dubrovnik you will not leave you indifferent.
1) Explore Old Town
The Old Town of Dubrovnik is the heart of the city and the main meeting place of the locals. It was included in UNESCO World Heritage Site list back in 1979 and since then it has become favourite summer destination for the tourists from all over the world. The Old Town is surrounded by City Walls which are almost 25 metres tall, because centuries ago served as protection from the Turkish invaders. The one thing you definitely cannot miss is the main street, Stradun, where you will see most of the sights, such as Sponza Palace and Church of St. Vlaho, the protector of Dubrovnik. The interesting fact is that almost every year Stradun makes into top 10 New Year’s Eve destinations, so there’s one reason why you could visit Dubrovnik during winter as well. In case you want to sit down for a coffee, we advise you not do that because the prices are ridiculously high – instead take one to go and sip it while strolling through this magnificent city.
2) Walk around the City Walls
Now, it is clear for you that this is a must-do while on your stay in Dubrovnik? The City Walls are, we could say the true symbol of this city. The walls were continuously built for 7 centuries, until 1660 when the last fort was constructed, St. Stephen’s bastion. There are 16 fortresses in total, but those most iconic are located on each of 4 main points of the walls – Minceta tower, Revelin fortress, St. John’s fortress and the most famous, Lovrijenac fort, built on a steep cliff from which rises 37 meters above the sea. Some of you might recognise it as Red Keep (King’s Landing) from Game of Thrones series. The tour on the walls can take you between 1 and 3 hours, depending on your tempo, taking photos and crowdedness in general, especially during summer. And do not forget to bring plenty of water with you because the walk can be tiring under the hot summer sun. The entrance fee for the City Walls will cost you 120 kunas (after 1/7/2017 will be 150 kn), while children and students will have to pay 30 kunas.
3) Take Dubrovnik cable car to Srdj Hill
The cable car Srdj was built back in 1969 and it connected the settlement Ploce with the hill and it was the first and only cable car on Adriatic coast back at that time. During the Civil War in Croatia it was completely destroyed, and in 2010 was renewed and put back in function. The ride to Srdj takes around 4 minutes and once you get up there, you’ll have the most spectacular panoramic view of Dubrovnik. The cable car station on the hill is equipped with café-snack bar and a restaurant with beautiful terrace overlooking Dubrovnik and you can even buy some souvenirs in the small shop. The return ticket for cable car is 130 kunas – though it is a bit pricey, it is definitely worth it, so don’t miss it out!
4) A day trip to the island of Lokrum
In case you’re staying in Dubrovnik for more days, spare your free time to visit this lovely island. The nature on this island is untouched and protected by law. It is the favourite getaway of the locals when they want peace and quiet. On the highest point of Lokrum you’ll find the fortress, which serves as a perfect viewpoint. One of the main attractions of this island is the lake called ‘the Dead Sea’ where you can freely take a swim and relax. Some of you who are more courageous can go to the southeast side of Lokrum, which is reserved for nudist beaches. Besides beaches, you can also explore the benedictine monasteries from the 12th century and finish your tour with a delicious meal in the nearby restaurant. The transportation to Lokrum is organised from the Old Town port by boats which run every 15 minutes during peak season. The price of return ticket is 40 kunas (15 kunas for children under 15)
5) Take a swim on Banje beach
The main beach in the city is located in Ploce, on the eastern side of the wall and it is considered one of the most beautiful on Adriatic. Locals like to joke that the beach is divided into two parts – one for ‘the rich’ and the other for ‘the poor’. That is because one part is free, and the other is accessible only if you plan to rent a chair. Above the beach you have cocktail bar where you can relax while sipping your mojito, and by night it becomes the favourite party place. Among the many activities offered on this beach, you could rent a paddle boat and visit Lokrum by yourself, or even skydive with speedboat if you’re hungry for adrenaline. Whichever option you choose, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
Check out our article on how to reach Dubrovnik from Dubrovnik Airport and if you wish to plan your trips outside Dubrovnik, but you’re not quite sure where yet, here are best trips from Dubrovnik which might help with your decision.
