Top things to do in Dubrovnik

Waayyyyy back in 2012 I travelled to Croatia. Okay, it wasn’t that long ago but it definitely feels like it. Of the 14 days I spent travelling that beautiful country, I have to admit my favourite were the ones spent within the walls of Dubrovnik. The city oozes with history and charm. Everything from the orange coloured roofs to the small stone streets, you can’t help but want to get lost wandering the quaint streets.

The city is small and easily done in three days, even though you’ll want to spend more time once you’re there. Because we travelled in November the city was starting to shut itself down for the season. It was quiet but there were still cruises docking at the main port so there were influxes of people coming in.

Hotel: Villa Dubrovnik

To this day, Villa Dubrovnik is the best hotel I’ve stayed in. It’s located just a little ways outside of the city walls (but close walking distance) and upon arrival you have to take an elevator downwards to reception. The room we were given had the most spectacular  view of the ocean and sunsets every night. Every morning we had a complimentary breakfast on the terrace which looked out directly to the city walls of Dubrovnik. If you ever have the chance, spend the extra bit of money and stay at this hotel it has absolutely breathtaking views.

Top Dubrovnik Experiences: 

Walk the city walls: 
This is one of the most popular things to do in the city and for good reason. Upon entering you must pay a fee (about $15CAD) before ascending stairs to reach the top. There are many places to enter the top of the city walls so views may differ but my first sight was one that took my breathe away. I couldn’t help but spend a few minutes watching the people below mill about, taking pictures, dining or shopping. From the top you can see the roofs of the city with the ocean and the Islands of Lokrum just beyond. Put aside about two hours minimum for this excursion and make sure your camera has enough room because the views from every nook and canny are worthy of a photograph.

Take in Lovrijenac: 
Try pronouncing it first – just kidding! This fort, also known as St. Lawrence Fortress was built to act as a fort, and a theatre. The ticket you’ve bought to tour the city walls will also get you entry into the Theatre and it’s worth walking over, even if just for the views. While the interior is not as spectacular as some of the other parts of the city it is worth a tour around.

Dubrovnik Cathedral: 
Rumour has it this cathedral was financed by Richard the Lion-heart himself! The picturesque Roman Catholic cathedral is centrally located within the city walls. With the beautiful architect and lots of treasures inside you shouldn’t miss a quick tour around.

Try the seafood: 
Do not miss out on the experience of having an authentic Croatian meal. Seafood is one of those specialties. The fish are usually plated in full – which caught me by surprise the first couple of times having it but it definitely made the meal that much more delicious.

Laze on the beach or stone steps: 
There are various spots around the city walls where you can sit and watch the ocean. Although there were a few small beaches, my favourite place to sit was on random stone steps that seemed to lead to nowhere. Sitting there watching the sunset, listening to the water crash upon the rocks was a form of self meditation.

Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car: 
My suggestion would be to get to the cable car either earlier or near close to avoid the rush. Even if you have to wait, trust me it’s worth it. The cable car takes about 20 minutes to get up. On the way you’ll have amazing aerial views of the city and once up, the mountains beyond.

Travel the Old City: 
The original city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and surprisingly still a liveable city. One night when sitting for dinner, we heard school children on their way home from class. During the day you can walk and see women hanging laundry within the walls. It’s really an incredible thing to comprehend that people really live inside the gorgeous walls.

Stay out late: 
At night the city is lit up. Lights are placed around the walls making nightlife that much better. My suggestion is to find a restaurant with a good view and enjoy a great glass of wine.

There you have it. I would recommend taking your time and just walking through the city walls. Once thing I did find rather surprising however was the amount of stray cats that wandered around. As a cat lover – it was hard for me to see so feed them when you can!

What were your favourite experiences in Dubrovnik?