Sunny Dubrovnik located in the extreme south of the Croatian coast is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by the Adriatic Sea but also a picturesque city filled with narrow, hilly and hidden streets.
Each of the Dubrovnik streets will tell its own story, but only if you look at them from a local perspective. Those would reveal a specific speech that only the residents understand. In addition, Dubrovnik is a city of turbulent history. It has preserved wide walls with quiet squares overlooking the coast, such as the “porporela” (a small harbour) and lighthouses that make unforgettable moments of sunrises or sunsets.
“Pearl of the Adriatic”, as described by Lord Byron, hides many interesting things: from the ancient sights of the old town, the blue Adriatic Sea in the area to many exciting activities. Dubrovnik is a city almost completely preserved in its original medieval beauty. Although Dubrovnik has a long history, its most significant period of development is considered to be perhaps the 15th and 16th centuries, when it became a significant factor in maritime trade in the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik is a unique city that should be on the list of every traveller. The surrounding area offers a variety of opportunities to enjoy: from beautiful landscapes, and old buildings to spectacular natural attractions.
5 things to do in Dubrovnik
There are many things to do in Dubrovnik. This is our list of the top 5.
1.Visit the Dubrovnik walls
Once a protective stone wall that served as a defence against attackers, today it is one of the most famous monuments in Dubrovnik. The walls around the city are a great place to see the city from all angles. The walls of Dubrovnik are definitely without a doubt one of the main things on the list of things to see in Dubrovnik. The first city wall in Dubrovnik was built in the 9th century around the city, and all city walls reach up to 25 meters in height and are about 2 kilometres wide.
Since then, the walls have been repaired and strengthened several times. The walls have 5 entrances: Ploče gate, Pila gate, Buza gate and two entrances to the city port, Ponte gate and fish market gate, but the most important defensive point of the city were fortifications built within the walls such as the famous Minčetatower, Bokar Fortress, St. John’s Fortress and Revelin Fortress. Walking through the walls of Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the main activity to be done. The walls offer a view of the land and the sea. To the top of these walls, the ascent is challenging, and in warm weather, it is recommended to take water.
2. Take a walkalong Stradun
The simplicity of the main street “Placa“, known as Stradun, reflects the harmony of the entire Old Town of Dubrovnik as the greatest treasure. Stradun is the main Dubrovnik street, and it is connected by the Pila Gate and the Ploča Gate. A local name “Placa” comes from the Latin word “platea”, which means “street”. The official name “Stradun” comes from the Venetians and is a mocking name for a big street or “big road”. The wide street is rarely empty, and the specific thing you will notice is the specific buildings of Dubrovnik architecture that surround Stradun Street. In addition to elegant historic buildings, Stradun is also a street filled with squares, souvenir shops, restaurants, bars and several museums.
3. Stand on “porporela” a tinyDubrovnik harbour
A tiny harbour used to call “porporela” by locals seems to be undoubtedly one of Dubrovnik’s stars. The pier and the breakwater in the old port of Dubrovnik inspired me at first sight. It was originally built in medieval times. Its main purpose is to reduce the intensity of waves, and erosion and protect ships anchored in the port of Dubrovnik.
“Porporela” is a very unique place and that is exactly the reason why I like it very much. You can simply sit there on a bench and watch the sea, boats and the island of Lokrum, listening to the sounds of sea waves, seagulls singing and enjoyingthe moment. During the summer it gathers many visitors, providing opportunities for sunbathing and swimming. Local youth will find some joy in jumping into the sea and swimming. A pier is very easy to find and is a particularly suitable place to rest. All you need to do is walk along the east side of Stradun, and pass the arch.
4. Take a tour of Luža square and walk through the narrow streets
Luža Square is a busy Dubrovnik square located at the eastern end of Stradun Street. Bordered by numerous precious buildings, Luža Square seems to be one of the most impressive squares in the city. Apart from Orlando’s Column and Onofrio’s Small Fountain, it is surrounded by the Sponza Palace, the Clock Tower, the city café, the Marin DržićTheater, the Rector’s Palace and the Dubrovnik Cathedral. Sure, we listed them all in the list of the sights. Apart from stepping onto Luža Square, one will want also to climb to the old town. Take a walk through the streets, and look at the architecture, the stairs, and the walls.
5. Visit the market on Gundulić Square
Apart from being famous for the monument of the famous Dubrovnik poet from the 15th century, the square on the south side of Stradun is the site of a popular morning fruit and vegetable market. The square dominates the monument to Ivan Gundulić, after whom it was named, and it was made by the sculptor Ivan Rendić at the end of the 19th century.
At the local market GundulićevaPoljana you can find a diverse selection: numerous seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as other local products grown mainly in fields outside the city (mainly Konavle region), dried lavender, lavender oil, locally produced “Grappe” and others fantastic brandies, all the way to handmade products. The GundulićevaPoljana market has been operating in this place since 1892.
What about Dubrovnik history?
What makes Dubrovnik specific is to be proclaimed „as a free Mediterranean state“ in the past, known as „the Republic of Ragusa“(Croatian “Dubrovačka Republika“). The fact that Dubrovnik owned the stone salt works contributed to becoming one of the leading dominant free traders in the Mediterranean in the early middle age. Then, having salt meant holding a destiny in the own hands.
The unique system of stony ridges evidence that the people of Dubrovnik understood the importance of the meaning of salt. Dubrovnik kept freedom from Venetian domination in the 15th century, but a small state was between the big powers’ constant gap. The Dubrovnik Republic received a significant blow in 1667 as a disastrous earthquake demolished a great deal of Renaissance art and architecture in the region. The only buildings which survived the natural disaster were the Sponza and the Rector’s Palace. The town was reconstructed in the Baroque style that has lasted unchanged to this day.
With the fall of the Venetian Republic, Dubrovnik Republic understood the Ottoman’s presence in Europe. To keep its freedom status, a state agreed to pay a tribute and process diplomacy in Constantinople. In 1515 Dubrovnik established a consulate in Alexandria, creating a significant advantage over other European states. The Republic of Ragusa carried the name between 1358 and 1808, until being invaded by Napoleon’s French Empire. Dubrovnik was affected due to the break-up of the Yugoslavia War. The estimated expense of rehabilitation has been said to be around 10$ million. UNESCO’s international organization helped establish a successful restoration campaign, ensuring that Dubrovnik is back to its roots today.
Dubrovnik sights
The old town of Dubrovnik, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is lined with huge stone walls with many sights to see. How much time you will invest here will depend on the number of attractions you want to visit in Dubrovnik. We have selected a list of attractions below.
Lovrijenac Fortress
Lovrijenac Fort, also known as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar“, is a fortress outside Dubrovnik’s city walls. Built on a rocky slope above the Adriatic Sea, it is intended as an additional defence. It provided additional protection to the western side of the region, not coincidentally directed towards Venice, at that time Dubrovnik’s main maritime competitor. The fort is 37 meters high and was the largest shelter in the city. Even the outer walls are 12 m high, although those surrounding the city walls are 60 cm thick. Fans of “Game of Thrones” will probably recognize the Lovrijenac Fortress at the scene of the birthday celebration for King Joffrey. The easiest way to reach the fortress from the Pile beach is via the stairs.
Revelin Fortress
Located right next to the city walls as part of the Ploče Gate entrance the fortress dates back to the 16th century. Its purpose was to defend the eastern side of the city and its port. Several terraces on various levels are located in the fortress, and they are still the largest terraces in the city. Enjoy the stunning view of the old port of Dubrovnik and Lokrum from it. Today, the Revelin Fortress is used as a venue for the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, as well as a popular nightclub.
Address: VrataodPloča, 20000 Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Cathedral
Numerous historical and cultural events await visitors within Dubrovnik. From those, it is necessary to mention the Dubrovnik Cathedral. The building was founded on the site of a basilica in the 7th century. Its main characteristic is a Baroque style. The church dates from the 12th century, and its construction was partially paid for by the English King Richard Lion Heart. An earthquake in 1667 damaged the main cathedral.
Not only is the house an impressive art landmark lined with art, but it is also a polyptych by Italian master Titian from the 19th century. The architecture of the altar, as well as the treasury, is worth a look. Tickets can be found in the treasury where gold and silver relics made between the 11th and 17th centuries are on display.
Rector’sPalace
This famous palace is located in Ulica Pred Dvorom (south of Luža Square). It is considered one of the most important palaces in Dubrovnik, along with the Sponza Palace. The Rector’s Palace is a beautiful blend of Gothic and Renaissance design and architecture. It was built in the Gothic style with elements of the Baroque and Renaissance in the 13th century and was restored in the Venetian Gothic theme, modelled on two occasions by Michelozzi.
Today, the palace building serves as the Cultural History Museum, the City Museum of Dubrovnik and as a music concert hall. Since the time of the Dubrovnik Republic, the Rector’s Palace housed government and state services, as well as the living space of the Rector’s seat. There could be seen Rector’s private chambers, administrative offices, public halls and even an underground prison. Renovated rooms and portraits with coats of arms and coins that reveal the history of the old town of Dubrovnik are on display.
Local tip: Be sure to check out the west facade of the palace, which includes the main entrance (portal), arcades and arches supported by beautiful carved pillars and capitals.
The Great Onofrio’s Fountain
Huge, round and domed Fountain of the Great Onofrio, built of seventeen stones. The Great Onofrio’s Fountain is a fountain in the centre of Dubrovnik. As the water in the fountains is drinkable and comes from a water source in the area, it is an ideal place to fill bottles with water and refresh yourself on warm summer days.
Dubrovnik Belltower with clock
This elegant domed tower identifies the eastern end of the main street of the old town that inspired me at first sight. The elegant building with a height of 31 meters from 1444 is a magnificent landmark of the old town. Due to the earthquake that damaged the bell tower in 1667, there was a danger that it would collapse. Therefore, in 1929, a new city bell tower was built according to old designs. On the bell tower there is also a wrought-iron clock plate from 1444 and below is an indicator of the moon’s changes, the work of Luka, the son of Admiral MihočŽurković from Koločep.
Bell-Foundry Luža (zvonara)
Renovated in 1952, the old bell tower was built in 1463. Its bells rang for emergency alerts, council conventions, and similar needs. The tower at the very end of Stradun, next to the Sponza Palace in Luža Square, has a wide circular clock known as the “octopus” and two-tone bell strikers. The mechanical dolls are known as the popular “Greens” (green twins) called “Maro” and “Baro”. The bell tower is considered to have been used originally by the so-called Helias’ clock from the 14th century. At the end of the 18th was replaced on the recommendation of the Croatian scientist RuđerBošković. The first “Green twins” (Zelenci) that ticked the clock were wooden. The present one was cast in bronze by an unknown master in 1478.
St. Blaise church
One of the most famous sights of the old town of Dubrovnik, the Church of St. Blaise, is a baroque church. It was built between 1706 and 1714 on the site of a 14th-century Romanesque church. It that damaged by the 1667 earthquake. Inside the church, there are various objects, and some of them have been preserved from the damaged church. Saint Blaise from the 15th century, holding the model of the city of Dubrovnik, is undoubtedly the most popular church exhibition. Climb the stairs and sit on the terrace. It is a popular place to observe the world that passes beneath it.
Sponza palace
The former building made to measure for the Sponza Palace, built-in 1520, was designed by the architect PasijMilićević. The palace, originally built as the city’s customs and mint, has a façade with a combination of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including beautiful Gothic windows, cloisters and inner courtyards. The complete carving of stone of all beautiful features is the work of the Andrijic brothers from Korčula, who also built the Korčula Cathedral.
Today, the palace houses the city archives, which preserve the most important documents that prove the history of Dubrovnik. It is one of the few buildings that survived the earthquake in Dubrovnik in 1667.
Orlando’sColumn
This famous monument is located in the heart of the old town, in the centre of Luža Square. It was built in 1418 as part of the armoured knight of Orlando. According to legend, Orlando won against the invaders in the Middle Ages and thus helped Dubrovnik become a city of free trade.
Franciscan church a dmonastery
This building in the centre of the Old Town of Dubrovnik dates back to the 1300s. You can find refreshments in its colonnades, cloisters, library and ancient pharmacies, especially when it is hot outside.
Dominican conventand museum
Founded in the 14th century, the building is home to several outstanding works of art. The building is designed in Gothic and Renaissance styles. A 15th-century cloister built by a local craftsman designed by Maso di Bartolomea is located in the interior.
Marin Držič Theatre
Culture lovers will love the theatre founded in the 19th century, which is the last remaining Dubrovnik theatre since ancient times, named after Marin Držić – a famous Dubrovnik Renaissance playwright from the 16th century. In the theatre building located in the very centre of the Old Town, next to the Rector’s Palace (City Hall), programs based on Dubrovnik’s literary heritage are held, performed by a permanent group of theatres of about twenty actors. They include plays by Ivo Vojnović, Marin Držić, Ivan Gundulić, MavroVetranović.
Dubrovnik museums
We have already mentioned some, but here is their shortlist.
- Rupe EthnographicMuseum. Hiddeninthelaststreetsoftheoldtown, a museumpreserves more than 5,000 piecesofDubrovnik’ssociallife, customsandtraditionsthroughoutthehistoryofitspeople.
- UpperCorner Tower. Withcovering more than 600 m2 andretainingallaspectsoftheproductioncycle, thismuseumis cool andworth a ride. Itwastheinitialfoundrywithcannons
- MaritimeMuseum. The 14th-century port isveryinterestingandworth a look. But also a thingyoushouldvisitduringthesummerheatwhenyouneed a littlerelaxationis a nice place duringthehighsun. LocatedintheFortressof St. John inthesoutheastcornerofthe Old Town, themuseumcontains personal belongingsofthecaptainsofships from the 18th century, as well as model ships.
- Museumof love stories. A museumattractsvisitorswithitsspecialexhibitofpassionandrelationships. Through a selectionofexclusiveseriesanditems, theexhibits show love stories from moviesand TV showsshotin Dubrovnik, music, popular love songs, localstoriesandmyths to global collections.
- Museumof Red History. In a fun, impressivewaythatcombinesvirtualreality, and a goodold gamethe role gives a viewoflifeintheformerYugoslavia.
- An oldpharmacyin a Franciscanmonastery. Foundedin 1317 as aninternalpharmacy for theFranciscans, lateritwaspresented as a publicservice. Thepharmacyisconsidered to betheoldest one in Europe. A museumcontainingvariouspharmaceuticaltools, containers, grindersandsimilarstaff from the time of Ragusa islocatedinthe Franciscanmonastery.
Dubrovnik events
Due to the mild climate, Dubrovnik was an ideal place for events and festivals that take place throughout the year. Here we have prepared a shortlist of the most famous.
Saint Vlaho Feast
In Dubrovnik, February is perhaps the quietest of all months. But, apart from quiet, this event has been held in Dubrovnik for 1100 years in winter. Saint Blaise is the patron saint of Dubrovnik. This celebration, dedicated to him, is held on February 3 every year.
Dubrovnik Wine Festival
Wine lovers will love this festival with wine workshops, and wine-themed exhibitions, which take place in April.
Dubrovnik Outdoor Festival
The festival, which takes place in May, will appeal to fans of outdoor activities. Although it may still not allow much swimming, it may be perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and climbing. The festival promotes a healthy outdoor lifestyle by extending a wide range of activities, from hiking, and kayaking to multi-day adventure tours.
Dubrovnik Summer Festival
They have been held for more than 60 years, and the festival runs from about mid-July to the end of August. Within the festival, numerous festivals, activities and theatrical productions take place almost every evening and are performed in various locations and venues throughout the area.
Baroque festival Cork
This festival runs from the beginning to the middle of September. The big music festival presents music and art from the local and foreign scenes.
Epidaurus
September in Dubrovnik is a good time to promote culture. Thus, lovers of culture and music will enjoy this festival in the last three weeks of September, which takes place in Cavtat. The event includes everything from jazz concerts, art events, traditional dances, and song reading, to theatrical performances.
Dubrovnik & Konavle Walking Festival
October is the perfect time of year on the opposite side of the season from May, which once again highlights outdoor sports in the vicinity of Dubrovnik. The event that will appeal to lovers of hiking and mountaineering is created for all those who like to walk in nature. It is held every first week of October.
GoodFood Festival
This gastro festival takes place in October.
Be activein Dubrovnik outdoors
Dubrovnik sits on the magnificent Adriatic Sea, so besides culture and history, provides various outdoor activities. Be active and find yourself like sea kayaking, swimming, cliff jumping, horseback riding, or numerous water sports like sailing, fishing, and jet skiing. Those are among the most common outdoor activities.
Kayaking
The outdoor lovers will adore a half-day tour starting from a tiny harbour on the right-hand side of Pile Gate. There is the point where the kayaking tour usually begins in the small bay beneath Fort Lovrijenac. Don’t stress if you think you’re without knowledge as trainers since the other low skilled kayakers will accompany you. During this trip, you’ll paddle across Lokrum Island, where you will stop for a break for snacks and/or snorkelling and at Betina, a secret cave shore.
Hiking in Dubrovnik surround
Dubrovnik is a very hilly region, so the hikers will start practising while looking in the old town. There are some interesting points in Dubrovnik’s surroundings for a hike. Let’s mention a few of them.
Local Tip: Srđ Hill hike & cable car. Thetrip to Mount Srđ is, without a doubt, one ofthe most famoustouristattractionsin Dubrovnik. Ifyouwant to hike, sure youcan, ifyou’regoing to drivebycable, youcan, but nothingcompares to the mix ofbothofthem. Onceyoureachthe summit, youcanenjoytheviewthatsitsproudlyover Dubrovnik andrises to anenormous 415 m abovesealevel. Theview from Srđ merelyisstunning, a bird’seyeoverCroatia’s most visitedcity. Whatbetterpictureof Dubrovnik than from thepeakof a mountaincouldbe?
Local Tip: Konavle hike. Thisisalsoanotherpointwecansuggestwhilein Dubrovnik. Ifyouenjoyhiking, this 4-hour Konavle tourin Dubrovnik maybethebestthing to do. Thehikingbegins at Vojski Do, a formertrainstation (thispropertyhouses a restaurant today) andtakesyoualongtheoldhighway, through nature andvillagesunder Snježnica Mountain.
Local Tip: “Games of Thrones” walking Tour. Dubrovnik hasbecome home to severallocationsusedinfilmingthe hit TV show “Game of Thrones“. Itdoubled as King’sLanding, thecapitalofthefictional Seven Kingdoms realm. Becauseoftheshow’spopularity, more peoplechoose to visit Dubrovnik andhavetheexperienceofreviving some oftheseries’ most famousscenes. Game ofThronestourswill take youthroughthemainpartsofKing’sLanding.
Buggy/Quadbike Safari Ride
It will be a joke to skip running a buggy after you’ve taken a cable car or hiked to Mount Srđ. The trip is an enjoyable activity for all generations. It is a perfect chance to explore the Croatian landscape in nature and forests. You’ll find a couple of agencies in Dubrovnik offering a quad safari tour through the Dubrovnik countryside.
On the other way, a safari tour with the jeeps is a perfect way to explore Dubrovnik’s surroundings as Konavle Valley. It will bring you from the flat Konavle Valley countryside over streams of the Ljuta River to cliffs.
Cycling In Dubrovnik
The town of Dubrovnik provides a few biking opportunities. Dubrovnik is very hilly, so automobile traffic is always heavy. Good outdoor cycling offers the peninsula of Lapad. The other famous cycling trails are on the islands of Elafiti and Konavle.
Rock climbing Brgat
A few rock-climbing locations ought to be discovered in the area of Dubrovnik. Although not the most impressive, one of the most famous rock climbing is Brgat. A small site is attractive for its vicinity to the town, and it is easy to be accessed. On Brgat, you can test climbing skills on 15 climbing routes. Close your carabiners and get a climb. Of course, always carefully.
Scuba Diving
Dubrovnik’s surroundings are full of caves, and cliffs, and the seabed is full of corals that will enjoy divers. The most famous locations include tunnels, walls and seafront houses.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Though The Adriatic Sea seems to be generally very shallow, it gets deeper in Croatia’s southern part. To taste yourself in Deep-Sea Fishing could be an excellent idea. You never know, how will be going with the fish hinting, but it is valuable to try. When nothing else, just for fun.
Daily tours from Dubrovnik
Suppose you spend longer than two days in Dubrovnik. In that case, Dubrovnik is a perfect starting point for visiting the surrounding areas. Firstly, in less than a two-hour drive from Dubrovnik, you may visit two other countries, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro. We prepared here some short things-to-do list of the tours in Dubrovnik.
The Island ofLokrum
You’ll have to go on a ship (leaves every half hour) and explore this small, but must-see island with a lake of saltwater. A little peninsula lies only 600 m offshore from the Dubrovnik. Lokrum is a preserved natural reserve and a landscape architectural monument. Besides, it is a swimming spot and a place for locals and travellers alike to spend a day away from the capital. Lokrum is open for visitors from April till October.
Elafiti Islands
A tiny archipelago off the Dubrovnik coast is with several islands, but the people live on only three of them: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. Both the islands are small with just a few villages each, even Lopud and Koločep are without vehicles. Elafiti is an exciting place to visit if you want to avoid the Dubrovnik crowds for a day.
I will never forget the sunset on the Elafiti islands. I expired it while travelling the ferry boat line from Rijeka to Dubrovnik on the boat Liburnija. The ship has today unfortunately carried away, but the sunset serenity is the same. Let it enjoy.
Mljet National Park
Mljet is a small and peaceful island of Dalmatia, situated in the southwest. It is easy to reach from Dubrovnik, and if you like nature, it is an excellent spot to escape for a day or even two. Only a few settlements are located on Mljet, and all of them are just small, quiet villages. The one-third area of the island is a national park, which is also Mljet’s primary destination.
Two large, virtually enclosed bays linked to the open sea, filled with saltwater – Malo (small) and Veliko (big) Lakes are two critical attractions inside the park. However, a St. Mary’s Island inside a vast lake situated St. Mary’s Church and Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. Mljet National Park encompasses more than 5400 hectares, including coastal zones, reservoirs, trees, mountains, and islets. Here’s how to reach Mljet from Dubrovnik:
By catamaran. Catamaran regular departs from Dubrovnik port Gruž in July and August. For more than one hour, it would reach Polače. The cost of a one-way ticket is about 10€ per passenger.
By ferry: Ferry boats run 5 times a day from June to September. The journey requires 45 minutes. Fare for one way costs 4€ per passenger and 20€ per car.
The Old Napoleon’sRoad
While heading down to Dubrovnik, just enjoy taking a simple trip. We climb up the hill in the village of Slano, onto the old road built in Napoleon’s time. The lane is small but mostly asphalted. It passes from Trsteno to Slano. This sends you up the cliff, with beautiful views of the sea and the nearby islands.
Pelješac Peninsula
The biggest Penninsula in Croatia is a very famous destination for wine lovers. Famous for its red wine, the Pelješac is still under the horizon for many visitors and uncovered in many touristic brochures. The recommended tour by car would take about an hour to reach Ston from Dubrovnik. In Ston we suggest seeing the longest fortification walls in Europe (Ston Walls), and saltworks.
Island of Korčula
Due to its layout and architecture resembling Dubrovnik’s old town, Korčula Island is also known as “Little Dubrovnik“. I was truly inspired when I first saw the tranquil island, surrounded by a glittering, colourful Adriatic Sea. One of the most popular Croatian islands is plenty of the pebbly beaches, crystal clear water and scenic, historical towns. Here is how to reach Korčula from Dubrovnik:
By sea. In June, July, and August, the passenger catamaran connects Korčula with Dubrovnik daily. Ferry boat on the other hand departs all year round from Dubrovnik and Orebić. It takes 2 hours to reach Orebić by car from Dubrovnik. Ferry crossing from Orebić to Korcula takes 15 minutes.
Sokol Grad
A large, fortified tower, Sokol Grad lies just a 30-minute drive from Dubrovnik. You can see and imagine what it was like for soldiers in the 15th century, when they used to serve at this fort. The place has a long history. Some items discovered there date back to the period of the Bronze. The location, though, became a part of the Dubrovnik Republic in 1420. It was opened to visitors in 2013 after restoration works.
Neretva River Safari
Still uncovered, mainly growing, with very little tourism. It is a magnificent Croatian region, with its rough hills, olive groves, mandarin orchards, ponds, lakes, and the Neretva River’s broad estuary. The part is popular among bird-watchers and kite-surfers. It is also common amongst frogs and eels for its distinctive regional food.
People existed here throughout history, and enormously depending on the water. They used vessels, specifically built to carry people and products down the canal. Such boats are called Trupa – a small wooden boat and Ladja – a wooden ship traditional to the valley of Neretva. Today, such boats are not so important to people’s daily lives here. Instead, they are held as part of the custom and used by tourists who want to explore the region.
Trsteno Arboretum
The magnificent botanical garden had its beginnings in the late 15th century. Through their worldwide journeys, ship captains delivered diverse plants and cultivated them in Trsteno Arboretum. A quiet oasis is only 20 km north of the old town of Dubrovnik. You may enjoy a few hours wandering around the gardens and breathing. Since the area served for documenting HBO’s Games of Thrones and doubled as King’s Landing as Red Keep Palace gardens it could be possible to visit it as a part of the Game of Thrones Walking Tour.
Cross-Bordertrips from Dubrovnik
I ain’t sure about you, but I always like to see more by crossing the borders when I travel and explore around. So let’s see with Putokoza some of the cross-bordered trips from Dubrovnik. Don’t forget to take your passport with you, since you cross the border.
Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
This closest destination in Dubrovnik, the Kotor Bay is a stunning place that inspired me at a glance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts breathtaking fjord-like landscapes and beautiful coastal historic towns. One of them is Kotor’s walled old town, rich with heritage and stunning medieval architecture, including temples, palaces, narrow cobbled avenues, vibrant squares and cosy cafes.
You can use a ferry boat Lepetari-Kamenare while going south of Montenegro since it will shorten the driving time. However, I recommend using a coastal road around Kotor’s bay on your way back. When you want to relax anywhere, you can just take a pause, but what I recommend is to stop in the lovely village of Perast. This time-permitted place looks like a little Venice fluttering down the Adriatic. Although the small town has just one main street, it boasts 16 churches and 17 once grand palaces.
Prevlaka Nature Park
Outdoor lovers will enjoy the peninsula of Prevlaka, the southernmost region of Croatia overlooking Montenegro and Herceg Novi city. The location is a protected nature reserve. Prevlaka has quite a few visitors. However, whether you enjoy climbing, walking or discovering old deserted former military buildings and fortress, it’s a nice spot to explore for nature aficionados. Adding to its tranquillity and calmness of the area with stunning Montenegro views, you’ve got a successful recipe for a great day out not so far from Dubrovnik.
Lovčen National Park, Montenegro
Established in 1952, Lovčen national park is lush with historical, cultural and architectural heritage. This protected area of 62.2 square kilometres has numerous elements of national construction such as the old houses. The cottages in “katuns”, summer settlements of cattle breeders are also typical for this part of Montenegro.
The main and most influential monument of Lovčen national park is Petar Petrović Njegoš‘s (famous poet and philosopher) Mausoleum. The majestic mausoleum is located at the top of its second-highest elevation, JezerskiVrh (1657 m). Getting there takes a bit of a tough task since you need to ascend 461 steps up to the entry where two granite giants guard the tomb of Montenegro’s greatest writer. The entrance fee for the national park is charged (children 0-7 years – free).
Budva
Also known as the ‘Miami of Montenegro’, this medieval city is more than 2,500 years old. It seems to be one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic. Located in the central part of the Montenegrin coast, the area surrounding the city is Budva riviera. In contrast to Budva Old town and Budva Castle, the most known feature is the small island of Saint Stefan. The fortified island connected to the mainland is approximately 6 kilometres southeast of Budva. With 15thcentury villas, the island makes ‘the most photographed site in Montenegro.
Vjetrenica Cave, Bosnia-Herzegovina
Located in neighbouring Bosnia & Herzegovina, just 40 km northeast of Dubrovnik, Vjetrenica seems to be the largest cave in this area. Its name means “wind cave”. The cave rich in stalactites, stalagmites, corridors, galleries and karst is with several streams with lakes on the surface. In terms of biodiversity, it’s indeed one of the richest caves in the country. Local Tip: If you drive on your own, note the road till the den is slightly narrow.
Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina
The old town is minimal but perfectly restored. It is full of tradition, fascinating Ottoman buildings, mosques, oriental shops and lovely restaurants, many with views of the river. The old bridge is the symbol of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting to Dubrovnik
- ✈️By Plane. Dubrovnik Airport (Čilipi) is located about 22 km from the city center. From the airport, you can take the official shuttle bus, a private transfer, or a taxi. The shuttle bus stops at Pile Gate (near the Old Town) and the main bus station in Gruž.
- 🚌By Bus. Dubrovnik’s main bus station is in Gruž, 2 km from the Old Town. It connects the city with major destinations across Croatia and Europe. Local buses within Dubrovnik run from 5 am until after midnight, making it easy to move around without a car.
- ⛴️By Ferry. The Port of Dubrovnik, one of the oldest on the Adriatic, connects the city with nearby islands. Ferries and catamarans depart regularly to destinations such as Lokrum, Mljet, and the Elaphiti Islands. International ferries also operate from Bari and Ancona in Italy.
- 🚆By Train. There are no train connections to Dubrovnik. The nearest train stations are in Split and Ploče, from where you can continue by bus.
- 🚗By Car & Parking. Driving into Dubrovnik can be challenging, especially in summer. Parking near the Old Town is very limited, with only a few lots close to the city walls. Many hotels and private accommodations provide parking—if possible, book a place in advance. From there, you can walk or take local transport to the Old Town stress-free.