5 things to know before going to Dubrovnik
/5 Tips for your next trip to Dubrovnik
Eastern Europe isn’t always a “Must Visit” on a lot of people’s list. I’m not sure why, but whenever I mention adding Croatia to your bucket list I’m always met with shock and exclamations of “never would have guessed!”
Well, I’m here to tell you if Croatia isn’t on your summer European bucket list, you’re doing it wrong.
While the entire country is beautiful and unique, I am going to focus on one city in particular: Dubrovnik.
If you are a Game of Thrones fan, the ancient walls, cobble stone streets, and ancient archways will remind you of the city where the Iron Throne sits…what’s that place called? If you can tell I am the farthest thing from a Game of Thrones fan so if you’re hoping for a Targuarian(sp?) sighting tour, you’ve come to the wrong blog.
This city is filled with charm, quaint little corners with laundry hanging out the window making you envious of the glorious European lifestyle; incredible restaurants, and breathtaking views of the aqua blue mediterranean ocean. And that is all just the old walled city portion of Dubrovnik, there is an entire city outside the walls just waiting for you to explore.
Now that I have successfully convinced you to visit, let’s talk about a few things you should knows before visiting this gorgeous ancient European city.
Stay outside the walled city
I have had the benefit of visiting Dubrovnik a few times, on a cruise, and wandering the roads of Eastern Europe and all times I have heard and experienced the same thing: much cheaper prices outside the ancient walls. The city is small, walkable (for the most part) with phenomenal forms of public transportation so picking a hotel closer to the Laped neighborhood will just put you closer to the beaches but no farther away from any of the great action.
2. Expensive but worth it
Walking the wall and the Funicular up to the fort are both 27 Euros each but incredibly worth it. We will start with the Funicular. If you are really on a budget and interested in a great workout, there is a free hiking trail up to the top. I recommend the funicular just because it’s quicker and if you don’t have a ton of time to see the city this view is a must-see. Once you are at the top do not go into the fort or eat lunch at the restaurant, those are definitely over priced and not worth it. If you walk along the outside of the fort, on a path that kind of seems like you aren’t supposed to be on it, but just keep going and you’ll see the complete panoramic overview of all of Dubrovnik.
Now, walking the old wall. Running 2.2km with three different entrances to chose from, the wall goes around the entire old city with more close up arial views of the city, incredible views of the harbor and cute hole-in-the-wall bars and restaurants over looking the water, these are much more affordable. Once upon a time, you used to be able to hop on and hop off.
but since the rise of Game of Thrones, once you enter the wall you have to complete the 2.2km before getting off. If you purchase a ticket to the wall it also includes entrance to the New Fort, which is definitely cool and gives you access to a cute little beach.
3. The early bid gets the worm
Dubrovnik is a beautiful beach town that has incredible weather all year long, therefore, it is tourist season all year long. And, from a girl who lives near Disney, I can tell you it is all about timing. Do your research on the time of year (I like spring or fall) but no matter what, get an early start on your activities. Get your spot at the beach, climb the mountain, walk the wall, do it all at times you might thing are odd, this way you beat the crowds. When it gets a little too crowded on the streets, dip into Olivia Pizzeria, an incredible restaurant off the beaten path with homemade crust and the cutest Coca-Cola glasses I’ve ever seen.
4. Bring your bathing suit and towel everywhere
Has it taken you this long in the article to realize that Dubrovnik is on the gorgeous and refreshing mediterranean sea. There are dozens of swimming areas right outside the city just cordoned off calling your name. Now, the beaches aren’t white sand, tan sand, or even a lot of sand at all. “Beach” is actually a loose term, it is more water beating up against rocks that are large and flat enough for you to lay a towel out and dive in. Small bars line the beaches, so grab a cocktail, pick a rock, and enjoy.
4. Get lost!
Take lefts and right whenever you feel called. The Old City and the New City is filled with incredible restaurants, wonderful people, and picturesque roads. Throw the stigma of Eastern Europe out the window and book your trip to Croatia.
I have to say it feels great to give travel advice again. While nothing ridiculous happened to me, I wasn’t arrested, I didn’t lose my wallet, and I was with some amazing friends on a fabulous cruise, I can still provide trip-changing advice. I hope you enjoyed as much as I did and if you didn’t, keep it to yourself and come back next week to see if you like that one.
