Dubrovnik

Overview

Dubrovnik is called the pearl of the Adriatic, its orange rooftops and clear water making it one of Europe's most beautiful coastal cities.

History

Dubrovnik, historically Ragusa, was founded in the 7th century and as an independent republic balanced between Venice and the Ottoman Empire, using diplomacy to stay independent for centuries while building a prosperous Mediterranean trading network. A great earthquake in 1667 destroyed most of the city, which was then rebuilt in its present form. It became a World Heritage Site in 1979. Shelled during the Yugoslav wars in 1991, it was rapidly restored and today is famous worldwide as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Highlights

• •The sweeping Adriatic views from a full circuit of the city walls
• •Sunset walks along the limestone-paved Stradun
• •Pilgrimages to Game of Thrones filming locations
• •The cable car to Mount Srđ for a panorama of red rooftops
• •Quiet mornings and evenings in the old harbour

Practical tips

• •Start early in summer to avoid crowds
• •Walk the walls in the morning when it is cooler

Practical information

Best time

June to September

Tickets

City walls about HRK 200; cable car about HRK 120

Opening hours

City walls 7:00 to 19:30, extended to 21:30 in peak season

Local food

Seafood risotto, oysters and local wine

Getting around

The old town is walkable and the walls can be circled on foot; avoid the times when cruise ships dock

Visa

Croatia is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa. Dubrovnik is very busy in peak season, so plan transport and accommodation early.

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