With its orange roofs that offer a sublime contrast with the blue of the sea, Dubrovnik is a city in Croatia that exerts all its charm from the first glance. And whether or not you are a fan of Iron Throne – several scenes from the famous HBO series were filmed in the heart of its old town – you will love getting lost through the pedestrian streets of “Port-Réal”, which retrace more than 1400 years of history.
FRIDAY
4 p.m. – Stroll through the streets of the fortified city
UNSPLASH / Patricia Jekki
Enter the walls of the old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through the Pile Gate. On your right is already a flagship monument of Dubrovnik, the Great Fountain of Onofrio, built in 1438. Then, in front of you, the Stradun, the main artery that crosses the fortified city from east to west. At the other end of this limestone-paved street, there is Luza Square and the old port, where you can stroll as you wish. In the meantime, feel free to get lost in the narrow streets of the old town.
6 p.m. – Have an aperitif with a view of the sea
To escape the hubbub of the Stradun for a bit, head to Café Buža, commonly known as “the bar on the cliff”, since the establishment is hidden outside the southern wall of the fortifications. This is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail while admiring the sunset. To cool off, do as the Croatians do and order a glass of Malvasia, a cool, dry white wine.
– Cafe Buža, Crijevićeva ulica 9
9 p.m. – Taste Dalmatian gastronomy
The Dalmatia region gives pride of place to fish and seafood in its cuisine. Recognized for its gastronomic table and its romantic atmosphere, the Nautika restaurant, housed in a former maritime institute, seduces with its magnificent terrace which directly overlooks the Adriatic and its dishes which highlight seafood. Lobsters, prawns, grilled fish… the freshness is always present on the plate! Remember to book.
– Restaurant Nautika, Brsalje ulica 3
SATURDAY
9am – Admire the orange roofs of the old town
Built in the 13th century, the ramparts of Dubrovnik invite you to take a panoramic stroll over almost two kilometres. Impressive fact: these walls, among the best preserved in Europe, whose mission was to protect the former Republic of Ragusa from invaders, are up to six meters thick in some places. Throughout this route – allow about two hours to go around – you will have a breathtaking view of the historic buildings of the old town and the sparkling blue of the sea. This is the must visit of your stay!
– The entrance is located near the Pil gate
11 a.m. – Visit a symbol of resistance
If you are a fan of Game Of Thrones (Iron Throne), you will not want to miss a visit to this emblem of the city, which served as the setting for the Red Donjon. Perched on a rock more than 37 meters high, Fort Lovrijenac served as a watchtower against the Venetian threat from the 11th century. After climbing the 200 steps that lead to the entrance of the fortress – access is included with that of the ramparts – you will be rewarded with a magnificent panorama of the fortified town. A small chapel and a collection of military equipment complete the visit.
– Fort Lovrijenac, Ul. od Tabakarije 29
1 p.m. – Feast away from the crowds
With its tables arranged on the cobbled street as well as its tasty and creative cuisine, the Lucin Kantun restaurant is a favorite address at lunchtime. Inside, you can watch the kitchen brigade in action. But don’t worry, the good smells of the dishes make their way to the terrace. Impossible to miss the sea urchins with aioli, the duck and the plate of local cheeses!
– Lucin Kantun, Ul. od Sigurate 7
3pm – Discover the history of Dubrovnik
Flagship monument of the pearl of the Adriatic, the Rector’s Palace combines Gothic and Renaissance styles with small touches of Baroque architecture. As its name suggests, this building built in the 14th century served as the residence of the rector of the former Republic of Ragusa who had several large rooms at his disposal during his month-long term. Today, the palace serves as a museum retracing the history of the city through a collection of paintings, costumes, period furniture, coins and armour.
– Rector’s Palace, Ul. Pred Dvorom 3
5 p.m. – Take to the skies
At the end of the day, take the cable car that connects the old town to Mount Srđ. Inaugurated in 1969, but destroyed during the bombardments of 1991, the latter resumed service in 2010. From up there, you will be entitled to a spectacular view of the fortified city, the boats that sail on the Adriatic and the small island from Lokrum. Before descending, let yourself be moved by the visit of the former imperial fort which houses the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence. Through testimonies, photos and videos, it traces the fighting that left the fortified city in a poor state.
– Museum of the Croatian War of Independence, mount Srđ
8 p.m. – Feast by the sea
A few minutes from the old town, Banje beach offers you a lively atmosphere with its restaurants and bars. In the evening, it is taken over by travelers who come to have a drink and dance until the wee hours of the morning.
SUNDAY
9am – Paddle to Lokrum Island
For a nice view of the coastline, opt for a kayak excursion that will take you to the verdant island of Lokrum, located 600 meters off the old port. Along the way, your guide saves you stops at coves and caves that are inaccessible on foot, adding to the uniqueness of this sea excursion. Once you arrive at the island, which is the source of several myths and legends, you will discover a heavenly place that has everything to please hikers and swimmers.
– Several agencies offer kayak excursions (departure near the Pile gate)
1 p.m. – Cool off with an ice cream
After a session of intense activity, nothing better than a fruity or chocolate gelato to recharge your batteries. Without a doubt, the best ice cream in Dubrovnik can be found at Peppino’s. Lemon tart, cheesecake and orange, chocolate-mint, pistachio… it’s hard to choose from the original concoctions of this friendly address, located a few steps from the Stradun.
– Peppino’s, Ul. od Puča 9
2 p.m. – Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere
A visit to the Franciscan monastery in Dubrovnik offers you a quiet break in the heart of the old town. Built in the 14th century and rebuilt following the earthquake of 1667, this historic building fascinates visitors with its interior Gothic-style courtyard enhanced by 120 stone columns and lush vegetation. But that’s not all! This architectural masterpiece not only houses one of the oldest pharmacies in the world – it has been selling natural products and fragrances for more than 700 years – but also a sumptuous library containing more than 20,000 ancient books and manuscripts.
– Franciscan Monastery, Poljana Paska Miličevića 4
