DUBROVNIK is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic for good reason – the impeccably preserved Croatian city is a real treasure.
Wandering its cobbled streets or looking across the sparkling turquoise sea from its imposing medieval walls, it’s easy to imagine you’re in a fairy tale — or at least an episode of Game Of Thrones, which famously was filmed here.
But it’s more than just a living museum.
It’s also a place to enjoy world-class food, crystal-clear waters and spectacular sunsets.
Why should I go?
IT’S breathtakingly beautiful, compact enough to explore in a weekend and blessed with a mild climate which means days without sun are rare.
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Perched on the stunning Adriatic coastline, it’s also a perfect base for exploring Croatia’s other gorgeous islands, with frequent ferries.
It’s a favourite destination for cruise ships, which means the Unesco-listed city can get crowded at times, but if you visit in early spring or late autumn it is far quieter.
Streets made for walking?
STAY within Dubrovnik’s old city walls and you can go everywhere on foot, as it’s completely pedestrianised and small enough to easily navigate.
From the elegant Stadun, the city’s main street, dive into narrow back streets and don’t be afraid to climb up cobbled steps to the town’s outer reaches where around 800 locals still enjoy a traditional way of life.
The walk you simply must not miss is the mile-long circuit of the magnificent 13th-century City Walls.
From here you get a perfect view over terracotta rooftops, elegant church spires and out to the ocean.
Take your time — you’ll need more than an hour — and if you are a Game Of Thrones fan, keep your eyes peeled for Fort Minceta and Fort Lawrence, which were used as the exterior of the Red Keep.
Anything for bucket list?
FOR a view that’s better than any postcard, take the cable car up Mount Srd, which rises nearly 1,400ft above the old town.
On a clear day you can see for almost 40 miles.
That’s why they built an imperial fortress up here in the Napoleonic era, which now houses a museum dedicated to the 1991-1995 civil war.
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Reward yourself with a cocktail at Panorama, a bar with arguably the best position in Croatia.
From up here you’ll be able to see the island of Lokrum — which should also be on your bucket list.
Boats go regularly from the old town’s harbour to this pine-shaded paradise, where peacocks stalk botanical gardens and a lake called the Dead Sea provides a memorable spot for a dip.
You can explore the island’s many trails, visit the Benedictine monastery, or just find a rocky cove for a lazy afternoon of swimming and sunbathing before catching the ferry back just as the setting sun turns the ocean pink and gold.
Where should I eat?
THE food scene leans heavily on delectably fresh fish right out of the Adriatic.
The downside is that eating out in Dubrovnik can be a little pricey, so a good tip is to visit in October.
This is when the city enjoys a month-long Good Food Festival which sees its top restaurants offer special set menus at bargain prices.
Try elegant cooking and harbour views at Arsenal, inventive sharing plates at Lucin Kantun and welcoming service and hearty classics at Gusta Me, just outside the city walls.
I fancy a drink . . .
SUNSET in Dubrovnik is to be savoured, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than Buza Bar.
Perched precariously on the rocks below the city walls, it’s a rough and ready place with pumping music and a lively crowd that give it a party feel.
It doesn’t need frills when you’ve got the sunset as a backdrop — and the chance to jump off the rocks for a swim in that inviting water.
Where should I stay?
FOR a real treat, try The Pucic Palace in the heart of the old town, a stunning 17th-century baroque building stuffed full of art.
In the low season rooms start at £172, rising to £500 in the summer.
A more budget option outside the city walls is Hotel Lero, where prices range from £66 to £123 and you can enjoy a luxurious pool and easy access to the beach.
