Dubrovnik
Izvor: ©sorincolac from Getty Images via Canva.com
Welcome to Dubrovnik
Are you thinking of visiting Dubrovnik? You are in the right place, as our page presents a comprehensive tourist guide through this city on the Adriatic. Read when is the best time to go to Dubrovnik, how to get to it and which activities await you. We will guide you through the city's most visited attractions, give suggestions on how to entertain the kids, and direct you to garages and the most essential services for tourists. We haven't forgotten about the local specialties either, and neither will you after reading our recommendations of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars. Use the information on our page when you go out to party, we have prepared a list of bars and clubs ideal for nightlife lovers. The city made famous by Game of Thrones has much to offer, from a rich and stormy history to typical Croatian seafood delicacies and unique instagramable spots. Let's go on a virtual tour of Dubrovnik together, we promise it will be fun and informative. After reading our guide comes the best past - your travel adventure!
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Dubrovnik
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Dubrovnik
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When to visit Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is a city in Croatia on the coast of the Adriatic Sea that you must not miss. Due to its fantastic location by the sea, it is best to visit Dubrovnik during the spring and the exceptional summer months when the cobblestones are teeming with tourists enthusiastically waiting to explore the city.
- During summer - It is perfect for a vacation during the warm summer months. If you want to feel the true soul of this coastal city during the summer, we recommend that you visit it between June and September.
- During spring - If you are not a fan of high temperatures and crowds, April and May are ideal months for visiting Dubrovnik. Whenever you decide to visit it, it will give you its best.
How to get to Dubrovnik?
The distance of Dubrovnik from the larger cities of Croatia is as follows: Split 205 km, Šibenik 263 km, Zadar 335 km, Slavonski Brod 409 km, Osijek 469 km, Karlovac 474 km, Rijeka 510 km, Pula 511 km, Varaždin 533 km, while the distance of the coastal of the cities of Croatia from the larger cities of the Balkans is as follows: Podgorica 136 km, Sarajevo 221 km, Belgrade 441 km, Ljubljana 583 km. Here are a few ways to get to Dubrovnik:
- By car - If you are coming from Western Europe, we strongly recommend choosing the highway and the continental road that leads from Rijeka through Senj, Žuta Lokva, Gospić, Dugopolje, Brgorac, Ploč to Dubrovnik. The second route combines the well-known Adriatic highway and the highway from Rijeka through Senj, Katrlobag, Maslenica, Split, Makarska, Ploče to Dubrovnik. If your journey takes you to Dubrovnik from Central Europe, there are two directions: Zagreb-Dubrovnik and the direction through Bosnia and Herzegovina Osijek-Mostar-Dubrovnik or Sarajevo-Trebinje-Dubrovnik.
- By bus - Dubrovnik has a bus station with local and international terminals. Taking a bus from Dubrovnik to Zagreb will take you a little more than 10 hours. The price of the ticket is 51.15 EUR. If you are going from Belgrade to Dubrovnik, you will spend 57.19 EUR for the trip. Bus lines 1a, 1b, 1c, 3, and 8 will take you from the port to your destination in 10 minutes. The price of a bus ticket is 2 EUR if you buy it on the bus, and 1.59 EUR at a newspaper stand. For more information, visit the website or call the bus station (060 305 070).
- By plane - Dubrovnik Airport is only 20 km from the city center. there is an organized bus service to Dubrovnik 30 minutes after every regular flight, where guests first disembark at Pila, then at the central bus station. There is a direct line from Belgrade to Dubrovnik, and the lowest ticket price is 119 EUR. The lowest flight ticket price from Podgorica to Dubrovnik is 70 EUR.
- By boat - Dubrovnik is a coastal Croatian city connected by a seasonal boat to the ports of Split, Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and Lastovo. However, this town also has a regular boat connection with the islands of Lokrum, Koločep, Lopud, Šipan and Mljet. The port of Gruž is only 3 km away from the center.
Activities for tourists in Dubrovnik
There are activities in Dubrovnik for every type of traveler, it's up to you to choose what you like best. Activities with which you can enrich your free time are:
- Activities on the water - Dubrovnik offers well-kept beaches great for swimming, but if that's not challenging and creative enough for you, feel free to rent one of the scooters or a pedal boat. Banana riding, skiing, or windsurfing will put a smile on everyone's face while your body will be flooded with adrenaline. We also recommend kayaking from Pil under the Lovrijenac fortress. It is possible to row to Lokrum, the famous cave of Beta, but also next to the stone walls. Diving is also popular in Dubrovnik. Visit some of the mysterious depths and protected underwater archaeological sites.
- Driving ATVs - Visit Konavle and rent ATVs you can drive through the incredible nature, and best of all. Just a driver's license is required. Tour lasts around 4 hours, while the quad bike ride itself takes about 2 or 2 and a half hours. The whole adventure requires visiting four different terrains. One of the most well-known ATV clubs is Kojan Koral. The price for one person on a quad is 106 EUR, while the price for two people on a quad is 159 EUR.
- Horseback riding and nature tours - Konvale also offers a relaxing horseback adventure. You can try your hand at recreational horse riding and thus explore the Konavo region along the 11 km long blue trail that passes through forests, olive groves, and steep coasts. If you get hungry, don't miss out on trying homemade prosciutto, cheese, and wine.
Events and festivals in Dubrovnik
If you happen to be in Dubrovnik at the time of one of the events or festivals, we strongly recommend that you visit them. Your vacation will become richer, and you will take unforgettable memories with you.
- Dubrovnik Summer Games - This manifestation holds the title of one of the most prominent and most representative cultural manifestations not only in the area of Dubrovnik but also in this part of Croatia. The Dubrovnik Summer games have been organized since the 1950s. They are held every year from July 10 to August 25 on Stradun Street in front of the Sponze Palace. This manifestation turns the city into several stages where drama, dance, and opera performances, concerts, exhibitions, and promotions are performed. During this period, Dubrovnik hosts numerous local and international names from different spheres of art. The Orlando award is given to the best achievements in the field of drama and music.
- St. Blaise Festival - St. Blaise has been the protector of the city of Dubrovnik since ancient times, and this holiday celebration begins on February 3. It lasts from the holiday called Cvati until the first of the following Sunday. The traditional part of the celebration is a mass followed by a procession. After the bishop releases the white doves, the banners that come to the church of St. Blaise are flown. After that, the people are invited to the church, where the ritual of placing two interwoven candles under the throats of believers is performed, and thus they are protected from throat diseases. Bingo is an exciting part of the procession and is a public game in which many people participate. During this period, various plays are performed in theaters and museums in Dubrovnik.
- International Film Festival in Dubrovnik DIFF - The DIFF film festival has been organized and held in Dubrovnik since 2003, the initiator of the organization at that time being the Dubrovnik Film Institute. It is visited by essential directors, producers, actors, artists, singers, and other visitors from the region, but also from all over the world. The festival has a competitive character, and in addition to the award given to the actors, the audience also evaluates the festival's best film, which receives the Libertas Award for Lifetime Achievement, and the Argosy Award for individual contribution to the field of filmmaking.
Activities for kids in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik has made sure that all generations find what suits them best. Your little ones can enjoy playing on the beautiful beaches of Dubrovnik, but they can also play in closed and fenced areas for their safety, such as:
- Indoor playrooms - Some of the most visited playrooms for children are Panda Playroom (Josipa Pipačića), Little Prince Creative Playroom (Iva Dulčića), Hugo Playroom (Prijeko). In these playrooms, kids can enjoy bouncy castles, slides, and ball pits.
- Parks - Some of the most beautiful parks in Dubrovnik are: Bogišić Park Dubrovnik (Baltazar Bogišića), City Park (Don Fran Bulića), Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park (Setalište Nika i Meda Pucića 17)
- Adventure Park - Adrenaline Park Sveta Ana is one of the favorite locations in Konvavle. This park is suitable for both children and adults. It consists of several polygons, among which the most famous is the one for paintball and a zip line. All training grounds are suitable for children and are perfectly safe. For more information, call (+385 99 832 7856).
- Animal Shelter - One of the largest and most popular animal shelters is the Žarkovica Animal Shelter, located in Dubrovnik. The shelter offers the possibility of volunteering, and donating, but also adopting cats, cats, and other animals. Even if you don't plan on adopting, bring your kids for a playdate with the animals. You can reach the shelter by bus number 17, which leaves every hour from Stari Grad.
What to see in Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is a harmonious city where ancient times connect, intertwine, and mix, with architecture that can take you back hundreds of years in the blink of an eye, but also hundreds of years ahead. Visit Dubrovnik and visit some of the most important things, such as those that we have highlighted below.
- Lazzarettos of Dubrovnik - Lazzarettos represent the oldest quarantine area in the world. They were built as one of the preventive measures to protect the people of Dubrovnik during the Republic of Dubrovnik. At that time, there was a large concentration of people in Dubrovnik, primarily merchants and travelers. A particularly dangerous plague spread rapidly through Europe, so the authorities built the first quarantine in Ploče in 1377 for the isolation of travelers and goods. The infirmaries were rebuilt in 1623, and today they have multiple purposes for recreation, trade, and entertainment.
- Museum of Love Stories - This museum is the only in the world dedicated to love stories. In addition to personal stories and objects of great, above all, sentimental importance, the museum has a lot of different love-themed content, such as exhibitions dedicated to the most famous musical love couples and stories from Star Wars and Game of Thrones.
- Dubrovnik churches and cathedrals - Since ancient times, religious buildings have been a stronghold of people and traditions that kept them alive during challenging years. As in other important cities, in Dubrovnik, you can come across various religious buildings that belong to the Catholic but also to the Islamic faith. Be sure to visit the Church of the Annunciation of Mary, built in 1534 by the Renaissance master Petar Andrijić. The church breathes the breath of the past. It complements its seemingly simple exterior with uniqueness. The church's interior is rich in sculptures, and the custom of writing votive messages on the interior walls has been preserved to this day. Visit the Capuchin Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy and the Church of the Holy Savior. The Church of the Holy Savior is dedicated to the miracle that saved people and the city from the earthquake in 1520. The Majlis of the Islamic Community of Dubrovnik is important for Muslims who only started coming to the city in 1878. It is possible to visit Medjilis every day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Accommodation in Dubrovnik
It is not surprising that there is a large offer of different accommodation units, such as:
- Hotels - Some of the best-rated hotels in Dubrovnik are Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, Hotel Adria, Royal Neptun Hotel, and Royal Blue Hotel. The price of an overnight stay with breakfast in a double room starts from EUR 104.99 and up.
- Hostels and private accommodation - However, if you want a slightly different accommodation, which is not a hotel, Dubrovnik offers you that possibility. There are many apartments in the city that offer different services. The price depends on accommodation, and some of the best-rated are Dubrovnik Luxury Residence, Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments, Palacio Celeste, Amazing view Apartments Dijana, Apartments Martha, Villa Green Panorama.
Phone numbers of important services
Below we highlight the essential services that you may need during your stay in Dubrovnik:
- Emergency services 112
- Ambulance 194
- Police Department 192
- Fire department 193
- HAK 198
- Rescue at sea 195
- Port Authority 418 988
- Marina Dubrovnik 455 020
- General Information Service 18981
Where to eat in Dubrovnik?
Whether you're looking for a big lunch or just a dessert, local foods, or crave some international dishes, we have recommendations for you:
- Restaurants - In Dubrovnik, you will find restaurants of both national and international cuisine. The best-rated restaurants in Dubrovnik are Restaurant Dubrovnik, Restaurant 360, Proto Fish Restaurant, Nautika, Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, Pantarul, Gradska kavana Arsenal Restaurant, Restaurant Maskeron, and Restaurant Panorama.
- Pizzerias - If you are a fan of Italian cuisine, you must not miss: Scala, Pizzeria Tabasco, Pizza Papillon, Pizzeria La Luna, Pizzeria Mirakul, Pizzeria Mamma Mia, Pizzeria Castro, Pizzeria Olivia, Mea Culpa Pizzeria & Trattoria Dubrovnik, Pizzeria Asterix & Obelix..
- Fast food and bakeries - Some of the best-rated spots where you can indulge in tasty fast food are Burger Tiger, Fast Food Republic, TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food, Coffee & Fast food Yummmi, Fast Bar Guloso, Take Away Dubrovnik, Rusica Bakery, Pekara Galeta, Klas Dubrovnik, Zlatno Zrno Bakery, Glavinić Bakery, Babić Bakery, Lapad Bakery.
- Pastry shops - To try local sweets, visit Patisserie Gabi, Pastry & Cocktail Bar Slatki Kantun, Patisserie Ana, Patisserie Marzipan, and Gianni.
Where to go out in Dubrovnik?
Dancing the night away or enjoying a drink with a view is easy in Dubrovnik. Some of the best spots for a night out in this city are:
- Cafes and pubs - If you love live music or partying to top hits visit some of these cafes and pubs in Dubrovnik: Fashion Cafe, Caffe Bar Time Out, Solitudo, Cafe Festival, Micro, Caffe Bar Tinel, Cogito Coffee Shop, Buza Bar.
- Discotheques - You are guaranteed a good time in the following discotheques located all over Dubrovnik: Platanus, SkyBar, Klub Revelin, East West.
Transportation in Dubrovnik
This maritime city of Croatia is connected by city and intercity transport, as well as by taxis.
- Public transport - There are several carriers and lines that will take you to all the famous spots in town. The price of the ticket varies, but it is somewhere around 2 EUR.
- Taxi services - Some of the most famous taxi stations in Dubrovnik are Taxi Dubrovnik, Taxi Touruga Dubrovnik, Plavi Taxi Dubrovnik, Radzlović Ltd, AB Transfer Dubrovnik.
Parking in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a city that has many parking lots and public garages precisely because of the many tourists. City parking is divided according to the following zones and it changes from month to month. You can learn more about the seasonal prices on the website.
- 0 zone - Red zone
- I zone - Purple zone
- II zone - Green zone
- III zone - Yellow zone
- IV zone- Blue zone
Surroundings of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is surrounded by magnificent nature and the Adriatic sea, which means you'll have many opportunities for day trips. Some of the spots you shouldn't miss:
- Lokrum Island - Lokrum Island is an eternally green area near Dubrovnik and a natural oasis of peace that attracts different tourists from all over the world. On the island, you can find various bays, beaches, and pine forests. In the very interior, almost hidden from view, there is a former Benedictine monastery from the 12th century, which was closed during Napoleon's occupation. The special highlight of this island is a small lake known as the Dead Sea. Today, the castle houses the Biological Institute of the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts.
- Mlini - Mlini is an old historical settlement and one of the most beautiful places in Dubrovnik County. Located on the very bank of the steep river Zavrelje, it has become the home of various plant and animal species. It is believed that in this very place, Saint Hilarion burned the Epidaurian dragon in the 4th century and thus saved Epidaurum from evil. The settlement got its name from the numerous mills. In honor of St. Hilarion, the church of St. Hilar was built.
History of Dubrovnik
- Name - An unusual name it still holds, the city of Dubrovnik got its name from the Slavic word for oak forest - dubrava.
- Reign - It is believed that the area of Dubrovnik has been inhabited since 6,000. years BC. After the Roman period of rule, Avars and Slavs came to Dubrovnik and destroyed it. After that, several Serbian tribes settled in these areas. The most crucial period belongs to Byzantine and Venetian rule. After 1358 and the war, the Venetians and the Hungarians left Dubrovnik, and then this city became a republic and experienced the greatest economic boom.
Geography and climate of Dubrovnik
- Geography - The city of Dubrovnik is located in the very south of Croatia, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its rugged and diverse coastline and many islands perfect for a summer getaway. It is surrounded by a small strip of Dinaric Alps and is also home to the delta of Neretva.
- Climate - The climate in Dubrovnik is Mediterranean, which leads to summers that are long, hot, and dry. Winters are mild, short, and rainy. The average annual temperature during the winter months is 9 degrees, while the average summer temperature is 26 degrees.
Demographics of Dubrovnik
- Nationalities of Dubrovnik: According to the 2011 census, there are approximately 28,434 inhabitants in Dubrovnik. The majority of the population are Croats, while there are also Serbs and Montenegrins.
- Religions in Dubrovnik: About 85% of the population declare themselves as Roman Catholic, while Muslims make up 5.28%, Orthodox slightly less, about 3.88%, agnostics 3.27%, and atheists 2.14%.
Tradition and culture of Dubrovnik
- Tradition - The Catholic tradition is significant for these regions and the country itself, which you can witness visiting beloved temples such as the Cathedral of the Ascension of Mary, the Church of the Holy Savior, Medzhilis , Synagogue.
- Culture - Experience the local culture by visiting Duke's Palace, Maritime Museum, Dubrovnik Museum, Ethnographic Museum, Museum of Red History, Museum of Love Stories, Maritime Museum.
Frequently asked questions about Dubrovnik
Why visit Dubrovnik?
One of the main reasons why tourists decide to visit Dubrovnik is the magnificent nature that surrounds this famous city, but also the access to the sea, which is warm until autumn.
When is the best time to visit Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is best visited when you are sure you need a vacation and an adventure. However, we would prefer the hot summer months, precisely because of the sea.
What are the most famous festivals and events in Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik's most famous festivals and manifestations are the Dubrovnik Summer Games, DIFF, and Festival of St. Vlah.
How to find accommodation in Dubrovnik?
The best way to find the perfect accommodation for you is to visit the Dubrovnik Accommodation page, where a wide selection of accommodation units awaits you.
What is the average cost of accommodation in Dubrovnik?
The price will change depending on the type of object that suits your taste. Hotels are a more expensive option, with an overnight stay with breakfast costing at least 105 EUR, depending on the location and service.
What is the most famous tourist attraction in Dubrovnik?
The most famous tourist attractions in Dubrovnik are the Lazzarettos of Dubrovnik, Church of the Annunciation of Mary, Museum of Love Stories, Island of Lokrum, Mlini.
How long do tourists stay in Dubrovnik on average?
During the summer season, tourists stay in Dubrovnik for an average of 7 to 10 days.