Travel guide Dubrovnik & Vicinity
Heading south towards Dubrovnik along the coast
The town of Dubrovnik, formerly known as the city republic of Ragusa, is located in the south of
Dalmatia along the Croatian Adriatic coast. You can reach your privately-owned apartment, holiday apartment, or vacation house with a sea view in Dubrovnik conveniently and quickly via the city's airport, which is located about 20 kilometers outside the city. By bus, you can get to the traffic-calmed old town, the heart of Dubrovnik. If you're traveling by car, follow the Jadranska Magistrala along the coast to the south. Book your accommodation, a vacation home, an apartment, a villa or a holiday apartment with a pool and a sea view for an unforgettable vacation tailored to your personal preferences along the Adriatic coast and explore the surroundings in Croatia. The towns of Brac, Krk, Hvar, Losinj, and Neretva are already waiting for you.
Summer, sun, and wind – Mediterranean climate on the Adriatic coast
The Mediterranean climate of southern Dalmatia gives the city warm to hot and dry summers and mild, sometimes wet winters. The best time for a
beach holiday in Dubrovnik is the summer months, with average temperatures of around 25°C and water temperatures of more than 23°C in sheltered bays. In winter, strong winds can blow down from the mountains. The Bora winds sweep across the Adriatic at speeds of up to 250 km/h. On sunny days, temperatures can reach up to 20°C. During your vacation, you can expect many hours of sunshine on the terrace of your accommodation and while exploring the surroundings.
Explore the living museum of the city
The entire old town of Dubrovnik is a unique attraction and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean. The historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is traffic-calmed. This makes it perfect for leisurely strolls. Begin your tour at the cathedral with the imposing name Katedrala Uznesenju Blažene Djevice Marije na nebo – "Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven." The Croats simply call it Velika Gospa – the old church. The Baroque building may not be one of the oldest but is one of the most magnificent structures in the city. The Dominican Monastery (Ulica iza medja) from the 14th and 15th centuries is much older. Here, Romanesque style elements meet Gothic and Baroque. The monastery's church houses a work by the famous Italian master Titian. Other prominent edifices include the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery and the 15th-century Rector's Palace. The old town is also home to the oldest continuously operating pharmacy in Europe.
Festivals and celebrations all year round
The town of Dubrovnik offers a comprehensive cultural program with numerous events in the performing arts throughout the year. Since 1950, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (Dubrovačke ljetne igre) has taken place annually at the Lovrijenac fortress. This is Croatia's largest cultural festival, featuring countless events in the fields of dance, opera, theater, music, visual arts, and poetry. On February 3, Dubrovnik celebrates its patron saint and protector, St. Blaise, with the Festa svetoga Vlaha.
Mountains and sea – Mediterranean cuisine in southern Dalmatia
Dalmatian cuisine is based on meat and fish dishes from the mountains and the coastal region. The influences of Austrian-Hungarian cuisine found in
Istria are less pronounced in southern Dalmatia. Here, Mediterranean cuisine dominates, featuring plenty of olive oil, grilled dishes, and hearty oven-baked dishes. Dalmatian ham is internationally renowned and can easily compete with Serrano or Parma ham. It is traditionally served in thick slices as an appetizer with olives, accompanied by sheep cheese from the island of
Pag. If you enjoy fish and seafood, you'll find paradise in Dubrovnik. The fish from the Adriatic is of exceptional quality – and also comes at a price. Try octopus prepared in Peka, a bell in which the dish gently simmers for hours. The standard side dish for meat and fish is chard cooked with garlic and potatoes. Last but not least, Croatian wine should be mentioned. Sample local wines from the mainland, the nearby island of
Korčula, and the
Pelješac peninsula. Here, you can discover some unusual local grape varieties. The dry white Malvasia is produced at the highest level – the perfect accompaniment to octopus Peka.
Fun and relaxation at the beaches and on the islands
Your personal vacation home, apartment, or holiday apartment with a sea view in Dubrovnik on the Adriatic coast is the perfect place for excursions in the region and visits to the city's beaches. The nearby island of Lokrum is a popular destination with numerous swimming spots and an intriguing history. There is a saltwater lake with high salt content, a beach, and a restaurant on the island. The Benedictine monastery is a testament to Lokrum's long history of settlement. The island also has a charming botanical garden. The city's most visited beach is Copacabana Beach, offering all types of water sports and entertainment. Additional beaches near your vacation accommodation in Dubrovnik include Buže Beach, situated beneath the city's mighty walls. A bar provides refreshments and the perfect spot for watching the sunset. In summer, the bar stays open until late at night. The pebbly St. Jakob Beach, located near the old town, is surrounded by cliffs. The old town itself is a World Heritage site with its beautiful streets. Kayaks and jet skis are available for rent here. Banje Beach is also close to the city walls and offers a more tranquil atmosphere. Those looking to avoid crowded beaches in summer can book a holiday apartment or an apartment with a pool in Dubrovnik. Take an excursion to Hvar, Krk, Losinj, Brac, Cavtat, or Mlini.
Discovering Dubrovnik means diving into centuries past
The impressive city wall of Dubrovnik's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is almost two kilometers in circumference. It is considered the best-preserved fortification of its size in Europe. The foundation dates back to the 7th century, with constant renovations and extensions added over time. Today, the structure not only reflects the city's defensive history but also its sacred, private, and public aspects. In front of the wall is the historic harbor from the 15th century. The vaulted arches on the small square at the quay date back to the 12th century. Here, there was once an arsenal or a shipyard for repairing galleys. Smaller boats are still brought ashore here. Enjoy the atmosphere in one of the cozy cafes right by the water. Book a vacation home, apartment, villa, holiday apartment, or vacation house with a sea view, pool, and garden tailored to your personal preferences and experience a relaxing vacation.