With a population of just over 40,000, Dubrovnik surprisingly welcomes over 1.5 million tourists each year. So, what attracts so many visitors to this charming city? As a first-time visitor, you may be wondering what to do on your trip to Dubrovnik. This blog explores some key things to discover on your first visit!
Medieval city preserved for hundreds of years
Extraordinarily Dubrovnik was finished being built in the 13th century, and its medieval features have been preserved ever since. The city’s defensive walls are some of the best preserved walls in the world. With limestone walls around 25 meters high encircling the old town, it is not a wonder so many visitors are attracted to the city’s impressive architecture.
With this, the city is home to the Dubrovnik Cultural and Historical Museum which holds incredible artefacts and impressive art displays. You can even immerse yourself in a tour of old staterooms and prison cells.
See first-hand filming locations for Game of Thrones
According to Forbes, “Dubrovnik’s tourism increased dramatically in the last decade, due to it being the inspiration for the fictional King’s Landing on HBO’s Game of Thrones.” Many Game of Thrones scenes based on ‘King’s Landing’ were filmed in Dubrovnik, making it an exciting city for GOT fans to discover. Uncover the Lovrijenac Fort, a scenic spot that served as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones. This fort dates all the way back to the 11th century. You’ll also be able to climb the Jesuit Stairs. These stairs are legendary for being the steps where Cersei took her tragic ‘walk of shame’ in season 5.
Take in breathtaking views of the city & beaches
From Mount Srd, you will be able to watch the gorgeous sunset by riding the cable car up the mountain. Once at the top, you’ll be able to take in a magnificent view of the charming city’s red-roofed buildings and white limestone walls. Doing this at sunset will optimise your views even further.
What’s more, is that Dubrovnik’s coastline also offers beautiful views. Two of Dubrovnks most pretty beaches are situated near the Old Town, known as Buza Beach and l Bard Mala Buza. Both beaches have exciting beach bars where you can kick back and relax with a cocktail.
Discover the unique nightlife scene
Whilst Durvnik has mainly bars as opposed to nightclubs, inside the fortress walls, you will find the exciting Culture Club Revelin, a lively spot hosting DJs playing music to dance to all night long. The city also offers smaller and more unique bars such as Cave Bar. For more local culture, you may want to drink between the Old Town and Gruz, where you will find a buzzing strip of bars and local cuisine.
Travel in style via Cruise Ship
As a first-time visitor to Dubrovnik have you considered travelling via cruise? Absorb yourself fully in Croatia’s breathtaking coastline and the tranquil Adriatic Sea. On board Silversea cruises Silver Moon ship, you can discover Dubrovnik in luxury and elegance, setting sail from Venice voyaging across to Croatia, you’ll also be able to venture through the beauties of Split and Zadar. For a first-time visitor to Dubrovnik, there is no better way to immerse yourself in Croatian culture than be sailed in first-class style on board the Silver Moon.
