Dubrovnik is a fabulous holiday destination. The ancient walled city offers captivating attractions, and the surrounding area enjoys natural charms, gorgeous beaches, all sorts of watersports, boat adventures, and charming villages and towns to visit.
The beautiful Arboretum Trsteno is not far from the villa and is worth visiting. It is the oldest renaissance garden in Dalmatia. It developed from a park surrounding the summer residence of the Gucetic-Gozze family and existed as far back as 1492. The gardens are stunning with Japanese banana trees, bougainvillaea, evergreen magnolia, many types of cactus and other exotic plants. It also includes many old stone sculptures and has been used to film Game of Thrones.
Visitors arriving at Dubrovnik Old Town for the first time are usually in awe of this fantastic city with its limestone streets, baroque buildings, ancient city walls and the endless shimmer of the Adriatic. It is no surprise why it was dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ by George Bernard Shaw. This characterful, atmospheric medieval town is enclosed by ancient city walls that you have to walk around. You should try and do this early or late in the day though as the queues are long and can be very hot. Inside the walls, you will discover the Stradun, its main thoroughfare brimming with shops, cafes and stalls. There are also many churches, monasteries and palaces scattered within the walls. You will marvel at how the light changes on these ancient buildings. The Old Town’s picturesque shops, restaurants and historical sights are an absolute delight. There is a fantastic atmosphere in the charming, bustling marina and port where you can take boat trips to various islands and Montenegro. The port is also brimming with fabulous fish restaurants soaking up the sunlight and guests enjoying cocktails. There are three entrances to the walled city, including Pile, the main gate, Placa by the port, and Buze. Buze Gate will take you in via steep staircases. Once you have finished looking at the churches, palaces, and monasteries, you can take the cable car up to reach Mt Srd, the best place to enjoy stunning views of this iconic Old Town. You will also enjoy sensational views of the expansive coastline and the beautiful mountains in the distance.
The Peljesac Penisula is a premier wine region of Croatia. Visitors can tour the local vineyards and sample the local wines, stopping at the charming villages of Ston and Trstenik. It is a wonderful excursion, particularly if you are not driving!
Guests also enjoy crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina and taking in the stunning natural beauty of Mostar, with its iconic bridge spanning the meandering river below. Along the way, the religious pilgrimage site of Medjugore and the UNESCO-listed city of Pocitelj are excellent stops. Spending a day in charming Montenegro, exploring the natural beauty and historical cities of Petast and Kotor, is another incredible experience.
The Region
Dubrovnik's Old Town, a captivating and well-preserved city on the southern coast of Croatia, is a place that effortlessly transports you through time. This historic walled city, with its timeless beauty and rich heritage, offers a unique blend of history and culture that will captivate your heart.
Enclosed within the formidable stone walls, Dubrovnik's Old Town is an architectural masterpiece that has endured for centuries. This medieval gem has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from its origins as the Republic of Ragusa to its present-day status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Entering the city through the imposing Pile Gate, you step into a world where every cobblestone has a story to tell. The limestone-paved Stradun, the main street, stretches out before you, flanked by elegant baroque buildings that house a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The harmonious blend of architectural styles creates an atmosphere of timeless splendour.
Visiting the Old Town's marketplaces is a great way to immerse yourself in the city, and a perfect opportunity to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious pastries. You can savour traditional Croatian ice cream or indulge in some local sweets and delicacies. Don't forget to try the traditional Dubrovnik cake, Rožata, which is a real treat for the taste buds!
One of the city's famous historical highlights is the Rector's Palace, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance structure that was the seat of power during the days of the Republic. Today, it houses a museum that offers a window into the city's history. Another architectural gem to check out is the Sponza Palace, a former 16th century customs house and mint that is a testament to the city's prosperity, with its elegant blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
For those interested in the city's spiritual and artistic side, the Dominican Monastery is a quiet sanctuary that showcases both. The monastery's cloister is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, and the museum boasts a rich collection of art and historical artefacts, offering a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.
If you’re seeking a bit of outdoor fun, then a trip to Banje Beach is a must for your itinerary! This pebble beach is within walking distance from the Old Town and boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Families can enjoy a spot of snorkelling, or even a boat ride to explore nearby islands.
Copacabana Beach makes for a great day excursion from Dubrovnik's Old Town. Renowned as one of the city's finest coastal destinations, Copacabana is an ideal spot for those seeking a stylish sunbathing and swimming experience. Copacabana's beach bars are celebrated for offering some of Croatia's finest wines, which you can savour while enjoying a refreshing seaside massage. This family-friendly beach also caters to active adventurers, providing opportunities for paddle-boarding, various water-sports, and inflatable fun.
Dubrovnik Old Town invites visitors to experience the vibrant culture within its historic city walls. Its rich culture, stunning architecture, and warm atmosphere make it a timeless Mediterranean treasure that continues to capture the hearts of travellers from around the world. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, savouring local, home-made cuisine, or embarking on family adventures, Dubrovnik Old Town offers an unforgettable experience.
