Dubrovnik

The 'Pearl of the Adriatic' and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Dubrovnik is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval Old Town encircled by impressive stone walls. The city inspired fictional King's Landing in Game of Thrones and offers stunning architecture, beaches, and nearby island excursions.

Things to do

• Walk the City Walls — Circumnavigate the 1,940-meter medieval defensive walls that encircle the Old Town, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic and red-tiled roofs.
• Explore Stradun Street — Stroll the main limestone-paved thoroughfare lined with Renaissance and Baroque buildings, cafes, and shops that forms the heart of the Old Town.
• Visit Rector's Palace — Tour this 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance palace that once housed the rector and now serves as a museum showcasing Dubrovnik's political and cultural history.
• Relax at Banje Beach — Swim and sunbathe at this pebble beach just outside the Old Town walls with clear waters and views back to the city's fortress.
• Island-hop to Lopud — Take a ferry to this nearby Elaphiti island known for sandy beaches, Mediterranean vegetation, and car-free village charm.
• Climb to Lovrijenac Fort — Hike up to this 16th-century seaside fortress perched on a dramatic cliff for sweeping views and Game of Thrones filming location recognition.
• Tour the Cathedral — Visit the Baroque Cathedral of the Assumption built on the site of a 7th-century church, housing notable religious artifacts and artworks.

Food to try

• Grilled Fish with Peka — Fresh Adriatic catch cooked traditionally under a metal dome with vegetables, olive oil, and herbs in a slow-cooking method called peka.
• Buzara — A simple yet flavorful shellfish stew featuring mussels or scampi simmered in white wine, garlic, and tomato sauce served with crusty bread.
• Crni Rižot — Black risotto made with squid ink giving it a distinctive dark color, creamy texture, and rich seafood flavor unique to Dalmatian cuisine.
• Oysters from Mali Ston — Fresh bivalves sourced from nearby Mali Ston's oyster beds, typically served raw with lemon as a local delicacy and aperitif.
• Dalmatian Prosciutto — Thinly sliced cured ham from the Dalmatian region, aged in sea air and known for its delicate, salty flavor often served as an appetizer.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the City Walls Schedule — Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds on the walls, and note that access may be restricted during extreme heat or poor weather.
• Greet with Local Courtesy — Croatians appreciate polite greetings such as 'Dobar dan' (good day) and a handshake, and tipping 10% is customary in restaurants though not mandatory.
• Mind the Game of Thrones Tourism — While the HBO series boosted Dubrovnik's fame, locals have mixed feelings about overtourism; be respectful of residents and avoid disruptive filming-location tourism.
• Dress Code for Religious Sites — Wear modest clothing when entering churches and monasteries, covering shoulders and knees as a sign of respect in these active places of worship.

Nearby

• Cavtat (Southern Dalmatia) — 11 km
• Pelješac Peninsula (Southern Dalmatia) — 36 km
• Šunj Beach (Southern Dalmatia) — 43 km
• Lopud (Southern Dalmatia) — 44 km