Things to Do in Dubrovnik and on Lokrum Island

Like a pearl of set in the turquoise of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is a favourite place for writers, artists and travellers. It is an eternal inspiration because of its fine architecture, its rich history and magnificent views. What makes the city unique from others in Croatia!? There is much more to Dubrovnik than the old town, I don't agree to see people come for a day or two and not get the vibe. It is a walled city, rich in history from ancient to modern times, and it was the Republic of Dubrovnik for 450 years until the arrival of Napoleon.

The "Pearl of the Adriatic", situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO.

We know Dubrovnik is an ancient City. We knew it was steeped in history, but here are a few facts which made even us sit up and take notice.  You learn something new every day :)

1. Its claimed that the world’s first commercial pharmacy opened in Dubrovnik in 1317.  Allied to the Monastery then, it is still in existence today,  but with rather more  recognisable modern remedies.  That said, it still stocks some creams and herbal teas with recipes faithful right back to the 1300s.

2. Dubrovnik was the first ‘country’ (being a Republic at the time), to banish slavery in 1416.

3. Dubrovnik had the first orphanage in the world, which opened its doors to take in children in 1432.

4. Dubrovnik has a medieval sewer system dating from 1296 which is still in use today !

5. Agatha Christie spent her second honeymoon in Dubrovnik.

6. Dubrovnik’s Insurance Law is the oldest in Europe, being validated in 1395,  some 300 years before Lloyds of London.

7. On Thursday 12th October 2016, Dubrovnik Old Town registered 1 million visitors in a year.  The first time this ‘magical’ number had been reached in a 365 day period. 

8. Dubrovnik is quite the Grande Dame of the film world having featured in Game of Thrones, Star Wars and in 2017 shooting is due to start on Robin Hood.

9. It once saved an English king’s life. Richard the Lionheart, returning from the Third Crusade in 1192, was caught in a storm off the Croatian coast and legend says he promised to God that if he survived he would build a cathedral wherever he reached land again. In the event it was the island of Lokrum where he finally landed, but apparently he was persuaded to build the cathedral in the Old City. The resulting basilica was largely destroyed in an earthquake in 1667 and rebuilt in 1713. 

10. It was involved in Europe’s most recent war. Dubrovnik was badly affected by the Croatian War of Independence, or the Homeland War, in 1991 and 1992 – 88 civilians and 194 military personnel died and there was a severe damage to many of  the buildings. Today most of the damage has been repaired by restoration work. There is a war museum in the old Napoleonic Fort on top of Mt.Srđ that can be reached by cable car from above the town.

11. It’s cut off from the rest of Croatia. A strip of land 12 miles wide, including the city of Neum, is part of Bosnia and Herzegovina and cuts Dubrovnik off from the rest of Croatia. In the 17th century the Republic of Dubrovnik was forced it to sell two patches of land to the Ottomans, and the Bosnian corridor was one of them, all in order to raise a bit of cash and halt the Venetian forces advancing from the north. 

12. It’s home to the world’s oldest pharmacy. Europe’s longest operating pharmacy, and one of the oldest in the world, is located inside Dubrovnik’s Franciscan Monastery, founded in 1317. Here the monks would make herbal remedies for local people. Today it  functions as a modern pharmacy, but a selection of face creams and herbal teas, made to traditional recipes, is also available.

It has some famous fans

Lord Byron called it the ‘Pearl of Adriatic’ and George Bernard Shaw said: ”Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik”.

If you’re gearing up to experience its allure soon, allow me to guide you through the best things to do in Dubrovnik :)

1. Walk a complete circuit of the City Walls

Of all the things to do in Dubrovnik, the absolute unmissable experience is a walk around the battlements of the medieval city walls. A complete 2km (1.25 mile) circuit reveals fantastic views over the old town’s terracotta rooftops and out to sea. Originally built in the 13th century, the walls protected the city then known as Ragusa from the outside world. At night, the two entrances into the city, Pile Gate and Ploče Gate, were locked, and wooden drawbridges hoisted up to prevent intruders from entering.

When the Balkan peninsula came under threat of attack by the Ottoman Turks in the 15th century, the walls were further reinforced with sturdy towers and bastions, plus some 120 canons. The main access point to the battlements is up a flight of stone steps on your left as you enter town through Pile Gate. In summer, the number of daily visitors is limited to prevent overcrowding, so early online booking is recommended. If you're lucky enough to be here in winter, you might have the walls all to yourself.

On Northwest corner sits Minceta Tower. This 14th century fortress has walls that are 6 meters (20ft) thick! It`s the highest point on the city walls, so you1ll get one of the best views from the top. If you`re a Game of Throne`s fan, Minceta Tower was used as the exterior shot for the House of Undying. With that said, be sure to notice the hordes of people pretending to look for dragons. It`s extremely entertaining.

Local tip: Dubrovnik was caught in the crosshairs of the war that followed Croatia's declaration of independence in 1991. Today, the town walls are once again intact, the gleaming marble streets are smoothly paved, and famous monuments have been lovingly restored – all with the help of an international brigade of specially trained stonemasons. It can be quite a climb to get to the top of these walls, especially when it is hot outside. The path is steep and has little shelter along the way, but once you reach the top, the views will be well worth the climb.

2. Drink morning coffee on the Stradun.

Drinking coffee is a morning ritual in Dalmatia. In Dubrovnik, the place to do it is the Stradun (aka Placa). This 300m-long (984ft) white limestone-paved promenade, the main thoroughfare through the old town, effectively links Pile Gate and Ploče Gate. The 17th-century Baroque stone buildings that flank the Stradun host small shops and open-air cafes at street level. This is where locals meet for coffee, read the morning newspapers, and watch the world pass by. One of the best spots is Gradska Kavana, located on a raised terrace at the end of the Stradun. Interestingly, the Stradun used to be a shallow sea channel – it was filled in during the 12th century, creating the city as you see it today.

Local tip: The entire old town is a pedestrian area, public transport is good, and parking is expensive, so you're better off not hiring a car until you're ready to leave the city.

3. See how local aristocrats once lived at the Rector’s Palace

Until 1808, Dubrovnik was a tiny but sophisticated self-governing republic called Ragusa. Each month, local councilors would choose a different citizen to assume the role of Rector – this short-term appointment was intended to prevent any one person from becoming too powerful. During their term in office, Rectors lived on the upper floor of the 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance Rector's Palace.

These quarters now house the Cultural History Museum. Here you can see how local aristocrats once lived, amid Baroque furniture, gilt-framed oil paintings, lavish costumes, weapons and even a sedan chair. 

Down at ground level, off the internal courtyard, note the entrance to the former meeting rooms of the Great Council and the Senate. Above the door is a plaque, saying Obliti privatorum publica curate (Forget private affairs, and get on with public matters). There is also a prison cell and a chapel.

Local tip: Game of Thrones fans, you might feel like you've been transported to Qarth in the grand atrium

4. Drink from the Large Onofrio’s Fountain

Designed in 1438, the Fountain of Onofrio has been bringing fresh drinking water to the city for centuries (and is operational to this day). It’s not uncommon to see folks refilling their water bottles at this popular Dubrovnik attraction. When entering the Old Town through the Pile Gate on the western side, the first structure you’ll notice is the Large Onofrio’s Fountain. This large, circular, and domed fountain consists of sixteen stone maskerons, each a fountain.

Travel tip: This is a great place to top off your water bottles. The fountains’ water is potable and comes directly from the city’s water network.

5. Wander The Gunduliceva Poljana Market

One of my favorite things to do in a new place is to visit an outdoor market. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in a new location. While on holiday in Dubrovnik, you will find the oldest market in Dubrovnik inside the Old City, known as Gunduliceva Poljana Market. This market is located at the Rector’s Palace and Cathedral. Gunduliceva Poljana market has been operating in this location since 1892.

Offering all seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheese, olives, honey, and spices, this is also where you can purchase many handmade souvenirs.

6. Ride The Dubrovnik Cable Car To Mt. Srđ

This exhilarating ride via a cable car is great for the whole family and provides a bird’s eye view of Croatia’s most visited city.

This is hands down the best sunset spot in Dubrovnik; it is simply one of those really cool things to do in Dubrovnik. You can grab a drink or snack at the restaurant on the summit while waiting for the sun to set over the shimmering Adriatic Sea.

Cross on Srđ

The imposing stone cross atop Srđ Hill was erected in 1935 to honor the 1900th anniversary of Christ’s crucifixion. Sadly, during the Homeladn War (1991-1995) it was destroyed by Serbian artillery. However, the Croatian army defended Dubrovnik, and a wooden cross was put in place to signify the city’s resilience. A new cross was later built in 1997. The cross stands tall as a symbol of Dubrovnik’s strength and faith. 

The cable car station lies just outside the northern part of the City Walls.

Pro travel tip: To secure the best photos, aim to arrive early in the morning or catch the mesmerizing sunset from this vantage point, beating the crowds for a picture-perfect experience.

To experience the sunset in solitude, take the path just north of the war museum. This will lead you to an isolated area where you’ll be able to watch the show in peace. This is also the best location to take photographs because you won’t have the cable car in view.

7. After, have drinks at Panorama Restaurant

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Dubrovnik then you need not look further. Make a beeline for Panorama Restaurant (the cable car is the best way to reach it) for dinner and drinks.

8. Go inside Dubrovnik Cathedral

The bulky grey building rising south of the Rector’s Palace is Dubrovnik’s cathedral (katedrala), a plain but stately Baroque structure begun by Andrea Bufalini of Urbino in 1672. Construction was supervised by a succession of architects imported from Italy.

Inside the cathedral are a couple of Italian paintings, including Titian’s polyptych The Assumption behind the main altar, a work originally bought by the Brotherhood of the Lazarini – a sign of how rich some of Dubrovnik’s commoners’ associations really were. The west side of the nave holds the icon of Our Lady of the Port, a Veneto-Byzantine Madonna once carried through the streets in time of drought for its rain-making powers.

9. Visit Game of Thrones filming locations

West of Dubrovnik's Old Town, just outside Pile Gate, steps descend towards a small harbour overlooked by the Bokar Fortress on one side and by the monumental, wedgeshaped fortress of Lovrijenac on the other. In recent times Lovrijenac has become famous as the venue for performances during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Game of Thrones fans might recognize the fortress as the setting for the Red Keep. In the Game Of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac (The Red Keep) is the residence of the King of the Andals and the First Men. It is within King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, and dominates the skyline of the city while serving as the city’s primary fortress and redoubt. On this filming location, Cersei and Littlfinger had long conversations in Season 1. 

Another famous location that was featured in Game of Thrones is Pile Bay. Significant scenes were filmed in the area around the bay, such as arrival of King Joffrey Baratheon and Queen Margaery Tyrell, and the infamous "walk of shame" scene.

One of the most famous scenes from Game of Thrones is the scene where Cersei walks nude in the streets of Kings Landing from the Great Sept of Baelor to the Red Keep. The first scene, where Cersei is standing on the top of the stairs, is filmed on top of the Jesuit Stairs, by the Saint Ignatius Church in Dubrovnik 

Gradac Park

Gradac Park is the city’s recreational park located just a short walk away from the Old Town and was a key Game of Thrones filming location in Dubrovnik.

It was used as the filming location for the Purple Wedding when Joffrey was poisoned to death by far one of the fan’s favourite scene in the show.

Various scenes are filmed inside the park, including the build-up to the wedding, with guests making their way towards the ceremony and also for the big scene where Joffrey comes to his fatal death.

One of the most beautiful places in the Old Town represents Blackwater Bay in the series. This calm spot was once an important transport hub for seafarers arriving in the western part of the city. It has views of both Bokar and Lovrijenac Fort, and Game of Thrones scenes have taken place from all angles of the cove.

The Pile Gate entrance has been used as the filming location many times in Seasons 2 and 3. Most notably in Season 2, Episode 6 ‘The Old Gods and the New’ in the scene “The Riot” when King Joffrey returns to Red Keep after Marcella went to Dorne and he gets attacked by angry mobs gathered at the entrance. He screams, ‘Kill him, kill them all’ after someone throws manure at his face. The gate also features in Season 3, Episode 10 ‘Mhysa’ when Jamie Lannister returns to King’s Landing.

Trsteno Arboretum

This magnificent garden was used as a filming location in the Game of Thrones (season 3 and 4) and earned the nickname the “Tyrell Garden”. In this Arboretum, there was the scene where  Sansa meets with Margaery and her grandmother Lady Olenna Tyrell to discuss if King Joffrey is going to be a good husband for Margaery (Season 3, Episode 2). Trsteno was also the filming location for the scene where Oberyn promises Cercei that he will deliver a gift to Myrcella (Season 4, Episode 5).

And now for a bonus Game of Thrones location

THE CITY OF QARTH FILMING LOCATION – LOKRUM ISLAND

Lokru Island was used as set for some of the Qarth scenes, for example in season 2, episode 5, where during the party in Qarth a woman with a veiled face gives a message to Ser Jorah.

As the legend says, the island of Lokrum is one of the World’s seven cursed islands. From the 11th century, The Saint Benedict monks lived there in their monastery. After Napoleon took over the Republic of Ragusa (today is known as the city of Dubrovnik), he ordered his army to expel the monks from the island. As they were forced to leave the island where they lived for centuries, they cursed everybody who uses the island for his pleasure. There were a few owners of the island for the next centuries, and they all ended up tragically. In the 20th century, the island fell in the hands of the Yugoslav government under the condition to be used only for recreation. Since then, no one was allowed to spend a night on the island. Today, Lokrum is one of the favorite spots for locals and tourists to spend a whole day enjoying nature and clear sea. If you’re spending any considerable time in Dubrovnik then you simply must not miss the opportunity to visit Lokrum Island. I spent some time in Dubrovnik and visiting Lokrum Island was the highlight of my trip. Little did I know that the island was teeming with ruins, gardens, cute restaurants and peacocks (yes, really! beautiful peacocks). I decided to spend half a day on the island, but ended up staying for the full day. 

Regarding its rich history and natural beauty, it’s not a coincidence that the island of Lokrum has become the City of Qarth “the greatest city that was or will be.” Lokrum was the filming location of the party in Qarth, where Daenerys meets the city’s elite. At this party, a woman with a veiled face gives a message to Ser Jorah. There were other filming locations for the City Of Qarth. For example, Minceta Tower (The House of Undying) and Rector’s Palace (when the Thirteen rulers of Qarth rejects Danaerys after she asked for help and ships). What better place to film the city of Qarth than Lokrum, don’t you agree?

How to Get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik

There’s really only one way to get from Dubrovnik to Lokrum Island and that’s via ferry. Some adventurous folks choose to get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik by kayaking, but you won’t have much time to explore unless you rent the kayak for the full day (which is expensive). That said, a ferry is the easiest way to get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik, and thankfully, it’s pretty easy to figure out. The ferry runs every 30 minutes, with the last boat leaving the island at 7pm.

Visit the real Iron Throne

It’s no secret that Dubrovnik was used as King’s Landing in the super-popular HBO show Game of Thrones. The city’s walls are teeming with exciting filming locations worth exploring. But something folks don’t realize is that the official Iron Throne from the show is located on Lokrum Island. Yep, that’s right. They are not messing with replicas here, folks. It’s the real deal. HBO gifted the throne to the city of Dubrovnik and they decided to place the through inside the visitor center on Lokrum.

The best of Lokrum’s rocky beaches are beyond the monastery on the island’s southeast side. Here you’ll find a small salt lake named the Dead Sea (Mrtvo more) just inland, and a naturist beach at the island’s southern tip.

10. Visit the Church of St Ignatius

Jesuit Church - Dubrovniks most beautiful baroque complex

The church was completed in 1725 and opened in 1729. The construction of both the Church and the Collegium began with the funds donated by a Jesuit from the Gundulić family, yet the donor had died before the designs were completed. The Collegium Ragusinum was actually founded because the people of Dubrovnik were dissatisfied with the Italian teachers with whom they often came into conflict. As soon as he was appointed, the Italian born head of the Dubrovnik diocese Beccadelli initiated the opening of the Jesuit Collegium in 1555.

A World of Art Inside

Now, let’s head inside the church! The walls are covered in amazing paintings created by Gaetano Garcia between 1735 and 1738. These huge Baroque paintings are in fact the biggest ones you’ll find in the whole Dalmatia region. They show dramatic scenes with lots of bright colors and special lighting effects. Similarly, the main painting honors St Ignatius, surrounded by other important religious figures. These artworks undoubtedly bring the walls of the church to life, filling them with stories about faith and amazing achievements.

11. St. Blaise church in Dubrovnik old town

The beautiful Baroque Saint Blaise Church we see today wasn’t always there! In the early 18th century, builders constructed the Baroque church on the foundation of an older church. This earlier church, built in the Romanesque style, actually survived a big earthquake in 1667! Unfortunately, it wasn’t so lucky in 1706. On White Sunday, a huge fire started from candles they burned the wooden interior first and then spread to the entire structure. Only the sacristy, a room for storing sacred items, survived the fire.

Here’s an interesting fact: even though the fire destroyed a lot, there was a miracle! The only object saved from the church’s amazing collection of artwork and religious items was in fact a silver statue of Saint Blaise. According to an inscription on a church plate, this statue was found completely unharmed under the ashes. After the fire of 1706, Dubrovnik wasted no time rebuilding their beloved Saint Blaise Church. Local builders got to work in 1707, following a design by the famous Venetian architect and sculptor Marino Groppelli. He wasn’t just the architect he also created the main marble altar himself, along with several statues for the church, including St Peter, John the Baptist, St Blaise, Faith, Hope, and even an angel above the entrance.

Here’s another interesting fact: There’s a painting in the old sacristy that shows a terrifying earthquake destroying Dubrovnik! In the painting, Saint Blaise kneels and begs for mercy for his city. This powerful image shows the deep connection between the people of Dubrovnik and their patron saint, a bond that continues to this day. They built him a grand church, put his statue on almost everything in the city, and even put him on the city walls! In return, Saint Blaise has watched over and protected Dubrovnik for centuries.

The war in Croatia didn’t spare Dubrovnik’s St. Blaise Church. Attackers hit it several times, damaging the facade, stairs, entrance, windows, and roof. During a particularly brutal attack, the people of Dubrovnik pleaded with city leaders to uncover a statue of Saint Blaise that had been hidden for protection. They hoped Saint Blaise could bring peace back to their city.

Nestled in the vibrant Luža Square, right in front of the majestic St Blaise’s Church, stands the iconic Orlando’s Column. Erected in 1418, this monument is more than just a piece of art; it’s a symbol of Dubrovnik’s enduring spirit of freedom. Legend has it that Orlando was the hero who aided Dubrovnik in fending off invaders.

12. Pop into the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum isn’t very large but admission is free with the Dubrovnik Card so you may decided to pay it a visit. The museum spans two floors and is home to marine relics, model ships and paintings, giving visitors a look into the important role maritime history played in the city.

The second floor has an interesting display of traditional clothing worn by Croatians, which was cool to see.

The museum is comprised of items donated by the citizen of Dubrovnik in the first half of the 20th century.

13. Swim and sunbathe at Šunj beach on Lopud island

Sandy beaches are rare in Dalmatia, but there is one near Dubrovnik Šunj on Lopud. Catch a white-and-blue Jadrolinija ferry from Dubrovnik's Gruž port to Lopud. As you sail into the bay, note the fortified Franciscan monastery, high above the sea recently renovated, it is now an ultra-luxurious retreat known as Lopud 1483.

From the palm-lined seafront promenade, follow a two-kilometer path through lush Mediterranean vegetation to reach Šunj (golf-buggy rides are also available). A glorious swathe of sand, giving onto a sheltered bay with warm shallow sea, it has several seasonal bars serving drinks and snacks, and hiring sun-beds.

14. Relax on Banje Beach

Just a hop and a skip from the harbor, this popular pebble beach has stunning views of the Old Town, and plenty of facilities including restaurants and sun-loungers. This is Dubrovnik’s main city beach, so it’s also enormously popular, meaning it’s best to get here early before it fills up. It’s good for families, and in the evening transforms into a lively beach bar and party spot.

How to get there: Just walk along from the Ploče Gate past Lazareti.

15. Sveti Jakov Beach

A little way past Banje but still less than a 25-minute walk from the Old Town, this local favorite is set below cliffs and is accessed by a flight of steps leading down from the Sveti Jakov Church. The alluring stretch of shingle and pebble beach has sun-loungers for rent, and there’s a restaurant, bar, and toilets. Like Banje, it also has stunning views of the Old Town.

How to get there: If you don’t feel like walking, you can take the 5 or 8 bus from the Old Town.

16. Best beach for activities: Copacabana Beach

Located on the northern shore of the Babin kuk peninsula at Seka Bay, the chic Copacabana is rather smaller than its Brazilian namesake – but is still a good spot for a swim, sunbathing and enjoying that requisite cocktail. You’ll find a small armada of white sun-loungers and cabanas, and a gentle arc of pebble beach – and there’s a restaurant and bar. You can keep busy here by renting jet-skis here, getting a massage and renting sports equipment.

How to get there: Take bus 2a or 6 from Pile.

17. Best for swimming and for a nice bar drinks is Buža beach

You reach both bars via a hole in the city wall. But make sure to be attentive, as there are no signs! So it is best to simply walk along the south part of the city wall and walk through the open door. There are a few small tables with sun umbrellas, served by a small bar, and a few concreted areas where you can try to fit a towel or just jump off into the sea. The rocks at Buža are not sheltered, so it’s not the best choice for kids.

How to get there: You can only access Buža by passing through the hole in the town's walls.

18. One of my favourite beach is Šulići Bay

This little pebble beach is right next to the Pile Gate, sandwiched between the Lovrijenac and Bokar fortresses. Nevertheless, it’s less busy than Banje and is quite sheltered, and the water is just as clean. There are no facilities on the beach, but you’ll find cafes and restaurants not much further than a swung towel away.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This spot was featured in the Game of Thrones sea battle scene :)

How to get there: Just make your way to Pile Gate and slip on in.

19. Visit Bellevue beach

If visiting this time of year then sit at the far end of the cove as you approach, as the sun is gone by 2pm is at the other side. Steps down to the cove aren't easy to find, you walk down the drive/road to the left of the Rixor hotel.

20. Visit the Old Pharmacy Museum

Step into the annals of history at the Old Pharmacy Museum, proudly standing as one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies since 1317. Nestled within the Franciscan Monastery complex, this gem initially catered to Franciscan friars before extending its services to the town and beyond. Today, not only can you marvel at the ancient pharmaceutical tools, containers, and grinders from the bygone era of Ragusa, but you can also purchase products crafted from time-honored Franciscan recipes. A must-try: the skin cream infused with local wild herbs.

The museum paints a vivid picture of its origins, established to serve the monastery’s in-house hospital for ailing monks. As you wander, be captivated by the colorful ceramic pots and original shelves, alongside equipment once used for concocting herbs, drugs, and potions. The cloister, a haven of tranquility, invites moments of reflection.For a modern twist, the operational pharmacy offers delightful rose-flavored potions. A poignant display showcases photos from the 1990s war, bearing witness to resilience. Located at Ulica Placa (Stradun), 20000 Dubrovnik, it’s a serene escape from the bustling crowds. Remember, while photography beckons, it’s strictly off-limits here.

21. Visit the Love Stories Museum

Dive deep into the world of romance at the Love Stories Museum. This unique space is dedicated to showcasing personal love stories and treasured items from every corner of the globe. From local historical and mythical tales of passion to the real-world love stories generously donated from around the world, every corner of this museum whispers tales of the heart.

Film buffs will revel in the sections highlighting romance from films & TV shows filmed right in Dubrovnik. And for the music enthusiasts, get introduced to the souls behind those iconic love songs that have serenaded generations. Located conveniently at the Pile gate in Old Town Dubrovnik, just outside the city walls, the museum is easily accessible. The address is OD TABAKARIJE 2, a stone’s throw from Restaurant Orhan. Inside, the museum spans two floors. While the ground floor offers a brief tour, the 2nd floor is a global journey of love. The owner, known for his warmth, often provides personal introductions, ensuring every visitor feels right at home. And on those sweltering days, they even offer complimentary water to refresh you.

For those looking to capture memories, the museum offers picturesque spots perfect for photos. A visit here is a heartwarming experience, highly recommended for every Dubrovnik visitor.

22. Visit the Abandoned Belvedere Hotel

Perched just outside Dubrovnik, the Abandoned Belvedere Hotel stands as a haunting testament to luxury and history. Opened in 1985, this once-lavish hotel boasted over 200 rooms, a helipad, and a private boat dock. However, its opulence was short-lived, operating for a mere six years before the Croatian War of Independence cast its shadow. The hotel, now in ruins, served as a refuge for Croatian evacuees during the 1991 siege. Its 18 floors echo with memories, with shattered glass and crumbled walls marking its past. Yet, amidst the decay, terraces at varying heights unveil breathtaking views of Dubrovnik Old Town and Lokrum Island.

For ‘Game of Thrones’ aficionados, the sea-level amphitheater might seem familiar, having been a set for the series. In 2014, Russian Billionaire Viktor Vekselberg acquired the property for 12 million euros. Though it beckons urban explorers with its eerie allure, it’s crucial to note that the hotel is not officially open to the public and poses risks due to its dilapidated state. Access is restricted, given its status as private property. However, a staircase nearby leads to the hotel’s pier and a beach, a summer favorite.

23. have a great time at the Culture Club Revelin

Nestled within a 500-year-old medieval fortress, Culture Club Revelin stands as a testament to the perfect blend of the past and the present. Since its inception as a club venue in summer 2011, it has swiftly risen to be recognized as one of the best nightclubs in the world.

Located at the eastern edge of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, its exterior boasts of antique charm, while the interior dazzles with bare stone blocks, arched aisle spaces, and grand barreled roofs. This club offers an unparalleled atmosphere, thanks to world-class DJs, top chart performers, and a state-of-the-art sound system. During the summer, international DJs set the stage on fire, while leading Croatian pop and rock acts keep the energy high all year round. Address: Sv Dominika 3, Dubrovnik, 20000.

For those looking to experience the unique thrill of partying in a fortress, Revelin is the place to be. With free entry before midnight and a reasonable entrance fee of 10 € thereafter, the club promises an unforgettable night. The drinks, while fairly priced, ensure you stay refreshed, and the two expansive bars mean you’re never waiting too long. Safety is paramount, with bouncers diligently ensuring a secure environment.

WHERE TO EAT

Above 5 Restaurant – go for the best panoramic a-la-cart breakfast experience in the heart of the old town with views to die for! It’s a michelin rated splurge and perfect for occasions.

Snek By Congo – easily one of my favourite breakfast places in central Dubrovnik, best for healthy options, juices, sourdough toppers and presentation!

Lucin Kantun – a great little restaurant for inventive tapas – tucked down a narrow old town passage. Bookings are essential at peak dinner times.

Panorama Restaurant – for the best sunset view at the top of the cable car ride – if timed right, you will have a spectacular meal experience!

Fish Restaurnant Proto – a perfect spot for fish lovers – another michelin guided restaurant with a choice of old town passage tables or roof top terrace.

Gradska Kavana Arsenal – you can’t miss this popular and classy terrace split between the harbour and old town. Try the ‘healthy breakfast set’ lunch menu or stop by for a coffee!

Dubrovnik Bus Station

Dubrovnik’s main bus station or terminal (locally called Autobusni Kolodvor) is located right next to the ferry terminal in Gruž harbor/suburb on about 3 km from the Old Town.

It is a modern and large, recently built terminal which features bus information and booking window, baggage storage, very useful Dubrovnik Tourist Board Information window, pay toilets, ATM machine, public telephone boxes, newsagent stand. A small shop where you can buy necessary items, as well as Croatian phone cards, is also there while a larger Konzum supermarket is nearby too.

So, Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?

Dubrovnik is absolutely worth visiting. This is truly stunning costal city and is one of the only remaining medieval walled cities in all of Europe. Dubrovnik is worth visiting for those who love history, Game of Thrones, beaches, or just beautiful places in general. There are so many things to do in Dubrovnik that it is a place with something for everyone.

Is Dubrovnik expensive?

Oh yes! Restaurants and accommodation are all overpriced in Dubrovnik – come prepared with that in mind.

Be mindful when asking questions about the war

The Yugoslav attacks and the shelling from 1991 to 1992 left Dubrovnik shattered and deeply wounded. This is not a topic to be approached lightly; you may ask questions in a respectful manner, but be aware that some people prefer not to talk about it.

Things to do in Dubrovnik during a free day:

Take a day trip to Montenegro. The easiest way to cross the border is by adding the Montenegro trip during your free day on your Croatia holiday. You’ll hop from Perast, to the islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks, to the UNESCO-protected town of Kotor all with an expert guide by your side, more about this in my next LAUR TALES BLOG :) 

Thank you.