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Diane Geddie, Product & Short Break Specialist

"There is a great deal more to Dubrovnik than its undoubted aesthetic charms. UNESCO has placed everything that lies within the old walls on its World Heritage List, and not just because it all looks nice. Its history is every bit as interesting as you hope it’s going to be, while despite the medieval architecture there’s also a strong modern pulse to the place. Whether you’re a cultural nomad, gourmand, wine-lover or history buff, Dubrovnik has plenty to offer."

Dubrovnik at a glance

Located on the Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik is a popular Mediterranean destination; a beautiful, sea port city with an illustrious past, where fortified walls of the Old Town trace their way to an enchanting coastline and orange tiled rooftops glow against a backdrop of deep blue sea.

With early beginnings as a Roman settlement, Dubrovnik’s much sought-after maritime location proved its undoing as nations battled over its ownership. From the 7th century, the city’s famous walls were constructed as a defensive line against hostile invaders and throughout the city’s history new additions and extensions were added. Today much of the wall still encircles Dubrovnik and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dubrovnik boasts many old structures, some dating as far back as the 14th century. The city’s Old Town is the best place to take in the historic atmosphere where monasteries, ancient carvings, bell towers and Baroque style architecture abound.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Historic attractions
  • Picturesque setting
  • A peaceful city break

Getting around

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is entirely pedestrianised and easy to navigate by foot. There is also an extensive public bus network.

Dining in Dubrovnik

Seafood is king in Dubrovnik and you won’t have to look hard to make fresh oysters, mussels and shrimp part of your dining experience. Many restaurants tend to cater to high-end tastes and can be expensive, but with a little exploring you can also find establishments that like to keep things simple with freshly prepared local favourites.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Black risotto – a risotto made with the ink of a cuttlefish
  • Meat “under the iron bell” – a meat (often pork, veal or lamb) mixed with potatoes and slow roasted under an iron “bell” covered in hot embers
  • Mantala – a firm, sticky, sweet made from the paste of grapes mixed with orange peels, wheat flour, cloves, cinnamon, almonds and walnuts

Shopping

Dubrovnik’s open air market in the old town are charming and are an authentic, unforgettable experience.

Whilst the Brits have the bowler hat and the French, the beret, Croatia has the cravat, so why not pick up these fashionable neck ties in one of the numerous unique boutiques dotted around Dubrovnik!

Osprey Holidays top tips

Mount Srd offers a spectacular panorama of Dubrovnik and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. The beautiful views from Fort Imperial or from the white stone cross that epitomises Dubrovnik's deep faith moe than make up for the tedious climb to reach the top!

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Dubrovnik designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

  • All travel and transfers on days of your choice
  • Accommodation from our handpicked range of Dubrovnik hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.

Important information
Population 42,615
Languages Croatian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

Take the cable car journey up Mount Srd for the most breathtaking view of the city.

Distance from airports
Dubrovnik 15 km

Things to do in Dubrovnik

  • City Walls: Get your bearings with a walk around the ancient walls, visiting forts and the Old Port.
  • Franciscan Monastery: A beautiful and tranquil sanctuary, which houses the oldest pharmacy in the world and a stunning cloister.
  • Cathedral: A Baroque cathedral, built in the 18th century to replace one destroyed in an earthquake.
  • Lokrum Island: Botanical gardens and Benedictine Monastery, a short boat ride from the Old Town.
  • Lapad Bay: Escape the Old Town crowds and visit this lovely beach, just outside the city, with its attractive promenade lined with cafés and restaurants.

Tours and Excursions

Old Town Walking Tour

See the best of the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ on this 90-minute walking tour through Dubrovnik’s old town. Begin the tour at the Pile Gate entrance to the Old Town where you’ll meet your guide. Sights include St. Lovrijenac Fortress, the old port, Rector’s Palace, Onophrian Fountain and St. Blaise Church. You will also see some of the filming locations from Game of Thrones, Robin Hood and Star Wars.

Island of Korcula with Wine Tasting

Located on the island of the same name, Korcula is one of the most beautiful medieval cities on the Adriatic Coast. It is also the supposed birthplace of Marco Polo. Tour the charming streets and squares with your guide then enjoy free time to explore the magnificent palaces and cathedrals. En route back to Dubrovnik you will stop at a well-known cellar on the Peljesac peninsula for a wine tasting.

Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls

Follow the beautiful Adriatic coastline up to the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. From here you’ll head inland up to the spectacular Kravice waterfalls. There will be time to admire the stunning scenery or even take a dip in one of the pools! From here it’s on to the charming and diverse city of Mostar with its UNESCO protected Old Bridge. After a short guided tour enjoy some free time to explore the city and perhaps some local food.

 

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.