The coast north of Dubrovnik is lined with pretty spots much quieter than the bustling city. Beaches, olive groves and vineyards all contribute to its beauty. East of Dubrovnik, it’s not long before Croatia ends and Bosnia & Herzegovina begins, while Montenegro is less than an hour’s drive south. In this direction, you have yet more idyllic coastal spots, such as Cavtat and Molunat, that are worth exploring.
Despite the many attractions further out, it’s Dubrovnik’s Old Town that is the focus for many visitors. To be fair, it is stunning – walking the City Walls is an experience which rewards you with spectacular Adriatic views. For more of those, you can take a cable car ride up to Mt Srd. As you do, you can also admire the Old Town and look out to the nearby islands.
A cultural hub, the city lays on plenty of entertainment, whether on the streets or in venues across town. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is an annual event, as is a Venetian-style carnival each February. You can visit an array of museums in the city, including the Maritime Museum and a Museum of Modern Art.
You may also like to check out the Red History Museum, dedicated to the 20th-century days of Yugoslavia, which features various curious artefacts of the time. Venture south of Dubrovnik, and you’ll soon come to Lovrenijac, a sturdy fortress which these days hosts theatrical performances.
Tourism in Dubrovnik has benefitted greatly from its prominence in the series Game of Thrones. Various organised excursions will show you the places featured, one of which lies just up the coast from Zaton and Orašac – the Trsteno Arboretum. Combine your visit with a stop-off in nearby Brsečine, former home of Croatian poetess, Cvijeta Zuzorić. An idyllic beach is not too far from the arboretum.
Down the coast, captivating Cavtat is both charming and richly historic. Attractions here include the Rector’s Palace and the House of Vlaho Bukovac, dedicated to a noteworthy local artist. Head
beyond Dubrovnik Airport, and you could also stop at Molunat. Said to be Croatia’s southernmost visitor destination, its sandy beaches, fragrant pine woods and the relative isolation make it an appealing one. There are a couple of good restaurants and a few bars, but not too much else – perfect for when you want a lazy day away from the crowds.
