Dubrovnik is a Croatian city with seemingly magical properties: it floats on the sea, the towers and turrets of its medieval walls giving it a fairytale silhouette at sunset; its restaurants serve up the ocean’s bounty; and the stone-paved streets echo with the footsteps of historic admirers. When you visit Dubrovnik, it’s a little difficult not to get caught up in the legends, hype, and hyperbole. In many, many ways, Dubrovnik lives up to expectations, and for this reasons it’s been a favorite vacation destination, bucket list hot spot, honeymooners’ paradise, and photographers’ dream.
If you are hesitating to plan a trip to Dubrovnik because it seems too difficult to get to, too out of the way, or too esoteric, you are doing yourself a disservice. Dubrovnik is one of those destinations that is worth all of that planning, and its memory will haunt you (pleasantly) long after you have left its shores for home.
Use this introduction to set your imagination into motion for your upcoming adventure!
Get to Know Dubrovnik
The best way to get to know Dubrovnik is to get out and about, see the sights, and enjoy a variety of activities that will give you an overview of what makes the city tick. Dubrovnik’s thick, impenetrable medieval walls are its number-one attraction, and they offer views both into the old city and over the sea. You can explore on your own or via guided tour. Note that in summer, the walls are packed with tourists, but if you travel another time, you will have them virtually to yourself. You won’t know whether to snap photos or use your own eyes to take in the harmony of red rooftops, softly crumbling stone, snarled garden patches, and blue sky unmarred by clouds.
Activities in Dubrovnik range from the lazy and leisurely to the exhaustingly active. Sunbathe, sample local wines at a seaside bar, or stroll the city streets on your own time. If you want to get your blood flowing a little more quickly, try any number of water sports available, including diving and kayaking. Boats will also transport you to nearby islands, one which has a nudist beach for naturists.
When to Visit Dubrovnik
Many people visit Dubrovnik during the summer, but this season isn’t necessarily the best time to go unless you wish to spend all of your time in the water. Dubrovnik is more pleasant during other times of year. The weather is not as hot, but even in winter the city rarely sees snow. It’s an excellent place to ring in the New Year for travelers who abhor the cold—
New Year’s Eve in Dubrovnik will have you wondering why you didn’t think of this holiday escape before! Springtime may see rain, but balmy temperatures and restaurants with tables immediately available are a fair trade.
Travel during a holiday or festival, such as
Croatian Carnival introduces visitors to Croatian culture and Dubrovnik-specific traditions that can’t be experienced any other time of year.
Valentine’s Day in Dubrovnik is especially romantic; pleasant temperatures, hotel holiday specials, and the gentle lap of the sea make it the perfect destination as a February getaway for two.
Cruises and Tours to Dubrovnik
One of the easiest ways to get to Dubrovnik is via guided tour or cruise ship. These options will include other destinations and ports of call, and they may not allow you enough time to really experience everything Dubrovnik has to offer. However, if you’re hesitant to spend too much time in a city you aren’t yet familiar with, either of these options may be perfect for you. They will give you a glimpse of Croatia’s jewel and may encourage you to plan your own extended stay in the Pearl of the Adriatic.
