The 15 must-do things in Dubrovnik

The Walls of Dubrovnik are among the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. Built and reinforced mainly between the 13th and 17th centuries, they encircle the entire Old Town and are managed today by the Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiquities.

The circuit runs about 1,940 metres and includes 16 towers and 3 fortresses, with walls reaching around 20 metres on the landward side. Walking the walls offers sweeping views over the Adriatic Sea and the red-tiled rooftops of the Old Town.

Central to the defence of the former Republic of Ragusa, the walls are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site inscribed in 1979.

The Old Town (Stari Grad) of Dubrovnik is a captivating historic area, often considered the heart of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval walls and charming architecture.

In Stari Grad, you'll find narrow, cobblestone streets, well-maintained limestone buildings, and a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Key sites include Stradun, the main commercial and tourist street; the Rector's Palace; the Franciscan Monastery with its historic library; and Dubrovnik Cathedral.

The city walls offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-tiled rooftops. Walking along the ramparts is an unforgettable experience that showcases the city's beauty and grandeur.

The Dubrovnik Cable Car links the foot of the Old Town to the summit of Mount Srdj (412 m) in under five minutes. From the top, the panorama takes in the walled Old Town, the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands, Fort Imperial and the Homeland War Museum. Sunset is especially popular.

The Rector's Palace (Palača Knežev dvor in Croatian) is an iconic building located in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It served as the seat of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa (the former Dubrovnik), who was the governor of the city-state. The palace was originally built in the 15th century in a Gothic style, but it has been remodeled over the centuries, incorporating Renaissance elements.

Today, the Rector's Palace houses a museum that features exhibits on the history and culture of Dubrovnik. The building itself is a prime example of medieval architecture and a major attraction for visitors to the city. The square in front of the palace, Luža Square, is also a central location where events and festivals often take place.

Fort Lovrijenac, often called "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar," is a historic fortress located on a steep, isolated rock just outside the city walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was built in the 11th century to defend the city from naval attacks, particularly from the Republic of Venice. The fort's strategic position offered an excellent vantage point for surveillance and defense.

The fortress is renowned for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the city of Dubrovnik. It has also gained fame as a filming location for the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," where it served as the Red Keep in King's Landing. The fort is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Dubrovnik's rich history and resilience.

Lokrum Island is a small island located in Croatia, in the Adriatic Sea, near the city of Dubrovnik. It's renowned for its natural beauty and intriguing history. The island is a protected nature reserve and features numerous hiking trails, picturesque beaches, and historical ruins, including the remains of an ancient Benedictine monastery.

According to legend, Lokrum Island is cursed, with some claiming that the curse was cast by the Benedictines who once lived there. Despite this, the island is a popular destination for visitors seeking stunning landscapes and a peaceful retreat.

The Franciscan Monastery in Dubrovnik is a significant historical site located in the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in the 13th century, this monastery is one of the oldest Franciscan monasteries in Croatia. It is renowned for its medieval architecture and its library, which houses valuable ancient manuscripts.

The monastery's cloister is especially notable for its elegant arches and tranquil gardens. Although the monastery's church is more modest compared to some of Dubrovnik's baroque churches, it offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The monastery also features a museum that displays religious artifacts and artworks related to Dubrovnik's history.

Dubrovnik has several beaches, mostly pebble, within walking distance or a short hop from the Old Town:

1. Banje Beach: steps from the Old Town with a direct view of the walls; bars and restaurants nearby.
2. Lapad Beach: in Lapad Bay to the northwest, with shallow water and a promenade, good for families.
3. Sveti Jakov Beach: quieter, reached down a descent, with a fine view of the Old Town and Lokrum.
4. Copacabana Beach: on the Babin Kuk peninsula, with sunbeds and umbrellas.
5. Sunj Beach: on Lopud Island, one of the area's rare sandy beaches.
6. Pasjaca Beach: about 30 km south, beneath the high Konavle cliffs, for a wilder escape.

The Cathedral of the Assumption, also known as Dubrovnik Cathedral, is a Baroque church in the Old Town. The present building was constructed between 1671 and 1713, after the Romanesque cathedral was destroyed in the great earthquake of 1667.

Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, it is notable for its elegant facade and richly decorated interior. Its Treasury (Riznica) holds a remarkable collection of reliquaries and sacred goldwork.

Entry to the nave is free; the Treasury is a paid visit. It is a must for anyone interested in Baroque architecture and religious art.

Dubrovnik's Old Town and walls doubled as King's Landing in Game of Thrones. Several guided walking tours cover the main filming locations.

Recognisable sites include Fort Lovrijenac (the Red Keep), the Jesuit Steps (Cersei's walk of atonement), the walls and the Stradun. The palace gardens of King's Landing were filmed at Trsteno Arboretum, about 20 km to the northwest.

Tours run from two hours to a half day and should be booked ahead in high season.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is a major cultural event in Croatia. Held annually from mid-July to the end of August, it features a diverse range of activities including concerts, theater performances, opera, and dance. The festival highlights performing arts in the historic and picturesque settings of Dubrovnik's Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The festival is known for its open-air performances in iconic locations such as the Rector's Palace, the Loggia Square, and the surrounding fortresses. It attracts both international artists and local talent, creating a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience Croatian culture while enjoying the architectural and natural beauty of Dubrovnik.

From Gruz harbour and the Old Port, many boat trips serve the area around Dubrovnik:

1. Elaphiti Islands (Kolocep, Lopud, Sipan): quiet villages, beaches and trails on a day trip.
2. Lokrum Island: 10-15 minutes away, ideal for a half day of botanical gardens and ruins.
3. Mljet Island: further out, with its national park, saltwater lakes and monastery.
4. Private boat with skipper: to set your own route to secluded coves.

Booking ahead is recommended in high season.

Sea kayaking along the city walls is one of Dubrovnik's most popular half-day activities. The clear, sheltered water between the Old Town and Lokrum Island gives a unique view of the fortifications from the sea.

Several operators run guided trips from Pile Beach (below Fort Lovrijenac), usually with a swim-and-snorkel break. Equipment and a life jacket are provided; no prior experience is needed.

Aim for morning or late afternoon for calm water and fewer crowds.

The Port of Dubrovnik, is a major seaport located in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It's situated on the Adriatic Sea and serves as a significant hub for both commercial and passenger traffic. The port is well-equipped to handle cruise ships, ferries, and cargo vessels, making it an important gateway for tourists visiting the historic city of Dubrovnik as well as for local and international trade.

Dubrovnik's port is especially popular with cruise ships due to the city's UNESCO World Heritage status and its stunning medieval architecture. The port area is well-connected to the city center, which is only a short distance away, making it easy for visitors to explore the historic Old Town, with its impressive city walls, ancient fortresses, and charming streets.

Trsteno Arboretum is a historic botanical garden about 20 km northwest of Dubrovnik, managed by the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts (HAZU). Laid out from the late 15th century, the 28-hectare estate holds more than 300 Mediterranean and exotic species.

Highlights include Renaissance and Baroque gardens, an aqueduct, a Neptune fountain and centuries-old plane trees. The site doubled as the palace gardens of King's Landing in Game of Thrones.

It makes a fine half-day trip for lovers of botany, history and coastal scenery.