Dubrovnik has seen its popularity soar in recent years, and with its picturesque natural beauty and wealth of cultural attractions, it’s little wonder this Croatian paradise has become such a hotspot.
Known for its breath-taking seafront view over the Dalmatian Seaboard paired with its historical significance, Dubrovnik was ruled by Hungarians and Venetians in 7th Century, and it’s the legacy they have left that makes it a city of such historical importance. It is not just a home to various intellectual and artistic picks, but also to different cultures and festivals – meaning this is a place you’ll never run out of things to do. From wandering its historic streets to enjoying some delicious local food and drinks, Dubrovnik’s appeals are endless – and we’ve rounded up the top six ‘must dos’ to get you well on your way to planning that perfect trip.
1. The Old City Walls
The old city walls of Dubrovnik are one of its most popular attractions, made famous in the hit TV series, Game of Thrones. Around six meters high, the walls were built to provide a solid defence against intruders many years ago, and today the walls are an amazing spot for a casual stroll, boasting excellent views over the Adriatic old city centre. The key highlights here include Minceta Tower, and the Bokar Tower – both of which are not to be missed.
2. Stradun of Dubrovnik
Undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful pedestrian thoroughfares, locals and visitors typically gather all day at the Stradun to watch the world go by. With its numerous restaurants and coffee-shops, there are plenty of places to rest your feet, relax, and do a spot of people watching after a long day exploring Dubrovnik. Spanning more than 300m in length and popular for its white limestone pattern, the street dates back all the way to 1468. The Stradun’s distinctive homes are made to accommodate residential living upstairs, with thriving business on the ground level, and are famous for holding their doors and windows under the same roof.
3. City Gates
This popular pile gate has served as the main entrance in Dubrovnik and is still the most attractive starting point to the gorgeous old town. It is surrounded by a wide ditch with a drawbridge, known as Pile Gate (Pedestrian Gate), with two entrances to Lapad – a place which is home to a beautiful garden in the old city. Rest spots include the St. Blaise statue, carved by well-known Croatian artist, Ploce Gate, and the nearby Revelin Tower.
4. The Loggia Square
Named after the loggia nextdoor to the famous Sponza Palace, Loggia square was once home to the city’s bustling market, and is still a central point for both locals and visitors today. In its centre stands Orlando’s column, carved with an effigy of Roland, who is said t have rescued Dubrovnik from the Arabs. Loggia of the Bells and the church of St. Blaise are also highlights, so plan to spend a cuple of hours getting to know the square.
5. Gibraltar: Fort Lovrijenac
Also known as St. Lawrence Fortress, Fort Lovrijenac is a fortress and theatre outside the western wall of the city. From its point along a rocky promontory, this historic fort is also one of Croatia’s most significant, notable for its unusual triangular layout with three terraces. The fort is accessed via a dual-phase Bridge with a gateway, and is a location that is also famous for the various summer festivals, theatrical and musical performances it hosts.
6. The Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries
The Dominican Monastery is so huge that its construction required parts of the town walls to be moved to accommodate it in early 1300. The main attraction here is the museum that is home to a range of religious paintings in the traditional Dubrovnik style, dating back to the 1600s. Prepare yourself to visit the Franciscan Monastery – the city’s most popular library. There is also an on-site museum which promises to delight history buffs – and it has its own great art collection for you to peruse, too.
Dubrovnik is truly one of Croatia’s most fabulous cities, and a visit here promises to be an unforgettable experience you’ll be talking about for years to come. If you’re not sure where to start with planning your trip, then there are plenty of tourist guides and companies who can set you on the right path, ensuring that you get that authentic Dubrovnik experience – from seeing the popular tourist sites to immersing yourself in the local way of life. Access Dubrovnik is a great place to start, offering you the best travel guides and tour packages to see the city and its surrounding areas.
To find out more, log on www.accessdubrovnik.com and take a look at some of the company’s exciting packages and offers, all of which promise to leave no stone unturned in your exploration of Dubrovnik.
