Locals jokingly say – to see the whole of Croatia, just visit the city of Dubrovnik. Indeed, everything that the Balkan country is proud of is concentrated here – amazing landscapes, ancient architecture, pristine beaches and restaurants with a large selection of local and European dishes. Traveling to Dubrovnik (Croatia) is most interesting to carry out by water; sea links are established with all the settlements of the country that have a port, as well as with some European cities.
Photo: Dubrovnik city, Croatia.
Going on a trip, be sure to bring a map with a photo and a description of the interesting Dubrovnik, because the resort is not only a city, but also located near the peninsula.
Dubrovnik – general information
Local colorful booklets advertise Dubrovnik as “the one and only”, there is no exaggeration in this slogan, because the city is rightfully considered the most beautiful in the Balkans and is included in the list of the most beautiful resorts in Europe. According to statistics, more than a million tourists come here on vacation annually.
The city is located in South Dalmatia, near the border with Montenegro. From afar Dubrovnik makes a pretty strong impression – its streets are surrounded by a powerful giant wall, thanks to which it was never able to capture during the hostilities.
Interesting fact! The main resort city of the Adriatic Sea is included in the list of European monuments of the Renaissance.
The city of Dubrovnik is divided into 35 districts, where about 47 thousand people live. The most visited is the Old part, where the largest number of attractions is concentrated.
Good to know! Interest in the resort is also due to a comfortable climate – the average annual temperature is +17 degrees, and in the summer the sun shines 12.5 hours daily. There is practically no snow in winter.
Around the city there are many islands where ferries and pleasure boats depart regularly. A favorite vacation spot for tourists with children is the botanical garden and beaches on Lokrum Island.
sights
The first thing a traveler sees when he comes to rest is a fortification, its width reaches 6 meters and its length is almost 1,550 meters. Walls of the old city of Dubrovnik (Croatia) – this architectural complex consists of the following attractions:
- towers – Mincheta, Bokar;
- fortresses – St. Ivan, Revelin, Lovrenac.
The Minchet’s tower of an unusual round shape is not just a tourist attraction, but a symbol of Dubrovnik. The construction of the Bokar tower was carried out for 80 years, its distinguishing feature is the diadem, which crowns the upper part of the building. Open air venues host theatrical performances and cultural events.
In the fortress of St. Ivan today are the Maritime Museum and the Aquarium. Revelin fortress is built in the shape of an irregular square and has the largest terrace in Dubrovnik. Lovrenac fortress is located in the western part of the wall and in the past sheltered the port from attack from the sea.
Useful information! The largest number of tourists passes through the gates of Pile – a tower with an arch and a sculpture of the patron saint of the city – St. Blasius of Sevastia.
- To climb the wall you need to buy a ticket. Cost – 150 kunas for adults and 50 for children.
- Visiting hours depend on the season, in the high season (summer) the tower is open from 8-00 to 19-30.
The photo of the city of Dubrovnik fascinates and makes you mentally transported back to the Middle Ages, but you can feel the indescribable atmosphere of narrow streets only by walking along them and touching the ancient walls of houses, whose age is from 400 to 500 years.
Good to know! According to UNESCO, Dubrovnik, together with Venice and Amsterdam, is one of the three most beautiful cities in the world.
The village was founded at the end of the 1st century, the infrastructure was formed here.
Interesting facts about the Old Town of Dubrovnik:
- for a hundred years, the Dubrovnik Republic had the status of an independent state;
- here they shot scenes from the series “Games of Thrones”, the panoramas of the Red Harbor caused the greatest interest of the audience;
- in 1979, the ancient part of Dubrovnik was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site;
- photos of the city of Dubrovnik are easily recognizable by the characteristic red shade of the roof and white walls.
What to see in the Old Town in the first place:
- Pile gate is an important transport hub of the city, it is from here that you need to start exploring Dubrovnik;
- Stradun Street is the main pedestrian street of Dubrovnik.
The central and largest tower located in the northern part of the city wall, opposite the port.
Walking around the perimeter of the tower, feel like a soldier on patrol, for reliability there are guns, a spyglass, and in one of the courtyards there is a guillotine. From a bird’s eye view, you can see in detail the whole city with its streets, a bay, liners, sailing yachts and small boats.
Interesting facts about the attraction:
- the tower was built in 1319 on the site of the estate of the Menchetich family;
- the architect Nikifor Rangin was engaged in design and construction;
- the reconstruction and strengthening of the structure was entrusted to the Italian specialist Michelozzo di Bartolomeo;
- after reconstruction, the military complex became inaccessible to enemies;
- later the architect Yuri Dalmatinets worked on the appearance of the tower;
- The tower symbolizes the greatness and resilience of Dubrovnik, and is also the highest point of the city in Croatia.
The entrance to the tower is accessible from the wall of the Old Town, to visit which you need to purchase a ticket (150 kunas).
Pedestrian street is a landmark of Dubrovnik. For hundreds of years, its external appearance has changed, initially there was a canal separating the island and the mainland, houses were built on its sides. However, after a devastating earthquake, the canal fell asleep, since then it has turned into Stradun Street.
Useful information! Going for a walk, be sure to bring a camera with you. Pay attention to the temple of St. Vlah and the Princely Palace.
The length of the street is 300 meters, it connects two entrances to the city – the western (Gate Saw) and the eastern (Gate Ploce). At the beginning and at the end of the street there are fountains – Big Onufrev and Small Onufrev, also in the western part there is a city bell tower, and in the east – a Franciscan monastery.
On a note! In early February, there is a procession in honor of the patron saint of Dubrovnik – St. Blasius of Sebaste.
In addition to the sights, there are many shops, cafes, restaurants on the street, and many narrow, old streets go to the sides.
In the southern part of Dubrovnik there is a Jesuit church, its architecture completely repeats the main Jesuit church in Rome. The construction of the landmark ended in 1725, the author of the project was the architect Ignazio Pozzo.
Interesting to know! The staircase leading to the temple is often compared to the Spanish Steps in the capital of Italy.
The interior design of the church is striking in its wealth and luxury, here you can feel calm and peace. The central altar is decorated with frescoes on a biblical theme, and the central half-dome is decorated with paintings. Under the church there is the oldest grotto in Europe, built in the 19th century, it is dedicated to the Holy Virgin from Lourdes.
Practical information:
- entrance to the temple is free;
- the church is active, but too many people attend the service, so it’s better to come at another time.
One of the oldest attractions in Dubrovnik (Croatia) is the fountain, which in the past was the end point of the city water supply network. Since the city had close ties with the Italian principalities, the Italian specialist Onofrio Cava was involved in the design of the water supply. Under his leadership, several fountains were built in the city. The water supply system stretches for 12 km, and the maximum elevation difference is 106 m. The final point of the aqueducts is the Big Onufria Fountain on Militsovitsa Square, and Maly is not far from the guard building.
The attraction is a 16-sided structure, each has a separate water outlet. Once the attraction was decorated with a dragon sculpture, but today it is lost.
Interesting fact! The Small Palace served as a source of drinking water for the princely palace.
The city of Dubrovnik in Croatia is located at the foot of Mount Srd, whose height is 413 m. There are two ways to climb to its top, where an excellent site is established.
The most convenient and fastest way is to use the funicular. This is the only lifting mechanism in the entire Adriatic that has been operating since 1969.
- The rise lasts 3-4 minutes.
- The cost of a round-trip ticket is 140 hrk, one-way ticket is 85 hrk, for children from 4 to 12 years the price is 60 and 40 kunas, respectively.
The second way is to climb the mountain on foot, the length of the route is 2 km. If you do not want to go under the scorching sun, rent a car – an automobile road leads to the top.
The observation deck offers a beautiful view of the city, the sea and the surrounding area. You can eat in the restaurant, but food prices are quite high.
Locals call Korcula mini Dubrovnik, it is the most populated island in Croatia. Translated, the name means Black Island, most likely due to the dark massifs of pine forests that cover most of it. The world center of winemaking is concentrated here, since Korcula has everything necessary for growing vineyards. The taste and aroma of local wines will be appreciated even by discerning gourmets.
In the middle of summer, a bright theatrical performance of Moreshka is held here – a knightly dance, known since the 15th century. Men dress up in old, knightly clothes and arrange competitions for the heart of the princess.
The main settlement of the island – the city of Korcula – is an old fortress with eight towers, one of which is the entrance to the city. The main attractions:
- Cathedral Square;
- Cathedral of St. Mark;
- bishop’s palace;
- a museum where works of art are displayed;
- museum of icons;
- Marco Polo’s house.
There are several ways to get to the island.
- By car. The length of the route is 120 km, you need to follow the E65 highway in the direction of Split, through the Peljescac peninsula, the city of Orebić, from here to Korcula there is a ferry that carries cars.
- By bus. Flights from Dubrovnik follow every day, transport with tourists carries a ferry, the journey takes up to 3 hours 25 minutes. The number of flights and the cost of tickets depend on the season of the year, relevant information must be clarified on the official website of the carrier. The approximate price of the trip is 94 hrk, ferry crossing is included in the price.
- On a ferryboat. There is a port in Dubrovnik, so you can get to Korcula by ferry, however, there are not many flights – one per day. The journey takes 1 hour 45 minutes. The carrier is Jadrolinija. The ferries are comfortable, with toilets and a buffet. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or on the website of the carrier, the approximate cost of 120 hrk.
- As part of an excursion group. There are many travel agencies in Dubrovnik that offer trips to Korcula. Prices vary over a wide range and depend on the number of people in the group and its duration. The average cost is 1700 hrk.
A detailed description of the island of Korcula with a photo in this article .
The first mentions date back to 1023, at which time a Benedictine monastery was founded here, the monks cultivated exotic and rare plants. The monks left the island at the end of the 18th century. The distance between the island and Dubrovnik is 700 m, so the message is constant.
Good to know! You can get to Lokrum by private water taxi and public transport, which leaves every hour from the Old Town. Ticket price 120 hrk – this includes a ferry ride and a walk around the island. The road takes a quarter of an hour.
Sights of Lokrum:
- beautiful sandy beaches;
- small dead lake;
- a wonderful botanical garden where peacocks and rabbits live in natural conditions;
- Fort of Napoleon.
Practical information:
- be sure to bring a camera with you;
- also take bread to feed the peacocks;
- take shoes for swimming;
- to relax on the island is best to allocate a whole day.
Interesting fact! There is a legend that as a result of a shipwreck in 1192, Richard the Lionheart landed on the island.
This is a fortification built on a cliff 37 meters high, the slopes of which are very steep and completely overgrown with thorny bushes. In the 11th century, the fortress was built to protect the western approaches to the city. For many centuries, the building was reconstructed and changed, but the inscription on the gate remains unchanged, which says – freedom cannot be sold for treasures.
Together with the city wall, the fort forms a powerful defense from the sea. The walls of the fortress offer a picturesque view of the old part of the city. At this fort, some scenes from the Game of Thrones series were filmed.
Interesting fact! In the evening, theatrical performances are held here, tickets can be purchased directly on site, their cost is quite affordable.
Beaches
The beaches of the Adriatic in Croatia are famous for their cleanliness and many have the Blue Flag. A beach holiday in Dubrovnik relaxes, helps to get rid of stress and energizes.
If you prefer the sea coast, pay attention to the beaches of Banje and St. Jacob, they are located eastward from Old Dubrovnik.
The rocky beach of Danche is located to the west of the central part of the city, here come those who confidently keep on the water, because there are always strong waves on the coast.
Families with children should pay attention to Copacabana Beach. Fans of a relaxing, secluded holiday will surely appreciate Buzha Beach.
In more detail, all the beaches of Dubrovnik are described in this article .
Rest in Dubrovnik: accommodation and meals
The cost of rest in Dubrovnik (Croatia), first of all, depends on the time of year and the level of the hotel. The most affordable prices in hostels – one day in a common room will cost an average of 150 hrk. In a three-star hotel a double room will cost 1000 hrk, and in a five-star hotel – about 1800 hrk. Another option for budget accommodation is guesthouses. Here the number is from 260 hrk. A great alternative to hotels is private apartments, cost per day from 260 hrk.
For a detailed overview of the best accommodation in the resort, see here .
It is important! Rates also vary depending on the distance from the city center.
Housing options in Dubrovnik at competitive prices.
Meals in Dubrovnik also vary in cost. The highest prices in the Old Town.
- A full meal for two of 3 dishes on average will cost 350 hrk.
- A check for one in a budget institution – about 85 hrk.
- Lunch at a budget fast food restaurant costs between 40 and 50 hrk
- Local beer 0.5 – 27 kunas.
- Cappuccino – 16 kunas.
In addition, in Dubrovnik there are taverns, fish houses and numerous fast foods, as well as a cafe with a vegetarian menu.
All prices on the page are for April 2018.
Weather and climate when it’s best to come
The climate of the resort in Croatia is much milder and warmer than in other cities of Dalmatia. The average annual temperature is +17 degrees, the maximum reading of the thermometer is +31 degrees in August.
Good to know! For family and sightseeing holidays, the best months are June and September.
From November to spring, the resort rains heavily and a strong wind blows. Winter temperature never drops below 0 degrees, snow is extremely rare, but they are replaced by ice rains.
In the summer, interesting events are held in Dubrovnik, therefore, if you are not afraid of the heat, and you love noisy holidays, choose July and August for a holiday. Accommodation must be arranged in advance.
How to get there
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Dubrovnik is by plane. From Moscow, weekly direct flights are provided. You can also take advantage of air carriers that offer connecting flights – this will help to save on flights. From Kiev by air you can only get with a transfer.
Shuttle buses run from the airport. They depart 9-17 times a day, depending on the day of the week from 4:30 in the morning to 20:00 in the evening. Travel time is 30 minutes. In the city, the shuttle makes 2 stops in the direction of the city and 3 stops on the way to the airport, see the points on the map at the bottom of the page.
One-way fare is 40 kunas (or 6 €), round-trip fare is 70 kunas (10 €). For luggage you need to pay separately – 1.5 euros.
The exact timetable for each day is presented on the official website of the carrier www.atlas-croatia.com.
The car can be reached from Western Europe and Central Europe. There are enough gas stations in all cities of Croatia.
In Croatia, bus services are well developed. Flights to Dubrovnik come from all the settlements of the country and neighboring states. The bus station is located in the western part of the resort.
If you are traveling from a city where there is a port, do not deny yourself the pleasure and give yourself a sea cruise on the Adriatic.
In the photo, the sights of Dubrovnik look mesmerizing and a bit fabulous, but you can really feel the color and atmosphere of the resort only by visiting it. Walking the streets of the resort, you will probably catch yourself thinking that Dubrovnik (Croatia) has firmly taken a corner in the heart.
Awesome video with views of Dubrovnik looks at one go – the quality of shooting and editing at altitude.
