The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Dubrovnik, Croatia Right Now
Dotted in Spanish tiled roofs along the breathtaking Dalmatian Coast of Croatia — Dubrovnik is home to centuries of rich history and unparalleled beauty. Its iconic medieval walls enclose a treasure trove of historical sites, from the majestic Rector's Palace to the ornate Franciscan Monastery. The city's picturesque Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to wander through its labyrinthine streets, where every corner reveals a new chapter of Dubrovnik's storied past. With its azure waters, sun-drenched beaches, and vibrant culinary scene, Dubrovnik offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal charm that enchants travelers from around the world.
Image: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Positioned between rugged cliffs and the shimmering Adriatic Sea — Dubrovnik will captivate you with its awe-inspiring scenery and outdoor adventures. From hiking to the summit of Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the city to exploring hidden coves and secluded beaches along the coastline, there's no shortage of opportunities to connect with nature in Dubrovnik. Island hopping is a popular pastime, with nearby gems like Lokrum and Mljet offering tranquil oases for relaxation and exploration. From cliff diving into crystal-clear waters, savoring freshly caught seafood at a waterfront tavern, or simply basking in the glow of a Dubrovnik sunset, the city's coastal paradise calls on visitors to embrace the beauty of the Adriatic at every turn.
1. Where to Eat and Drink in Dubrovnik
A fixture since 1897 — The Imperial Bar uses the Shaw Book of Cocktails (published in 1897) as their inspiration. Drinks are a nod to a bygone era, with all of the cocktails directly related to those available in the 19th century. The menu will take you back to times long gone, a time of luxury, simplicity, elegance and individuality, with tales long forgotten. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying not one, but three of their signature cocktails, the Old Grog — concocted with Havana Club añejo 7yo, Falernum, fresh-squeezed lime, sugar cane, and Angostura, the Milk Punch with milk-washed Havana 3yo, fresh-squeezed lemon, vanilla, cinnamon, star anise, sugar cane, and pomegranate tea, or the Ditto, Cock-Tail with Beefeater gin, ginger shrub, fresh mint, fresh-squeezed lime, and sugar cane.
Helmed by Executive Chef Julija Bašić — Imperial Terrace, embraced by the calming shade of trees, impressive architecture and exclusive décor that distinguishes it, brings you a Mediterranean-inspired scratch menu focused on incorporating the finest seasonal ingredients from local producers. The menu draws inspiration from treasured family recipes and reinvents them with a contemporary flair, to create a romance of flavors. From sourcing the finest locally-sourced ingredients to meticulously preparing each dish, the chef’s labor of love shines through in every aspect of your dining experience. Favorite dishes include Adriatic Shrimp, Croatian Beef Carpaccio, Sea Urchin Spaghetti, Pan-Fried Monkfish, Smoked John Dory Fennel Salad, and Line-Caught Adriatic Tuna Steak.
As you savor the exquisite flavors and immerse yourself in the elegant ambiance of the terrace, you'll discover that dining at Imperial Terrace is more than just a meal — it's a celebration of culinary mastery, shared with those who appreciate the art of fine dining. Hungry yet?
2. Take in the stunning Medieval architecture
Dubrovnik, Croatia is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, which transports visitors back to Gothic and Renaissance times. The city's well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows a look into its rich history and cultural heritage. Enclosed within imposing stone walls that date back to the 13th century, Dubrovnik's medieval marvels await exploration at each and every turn.
Image: City Walls in Dubrovnik, Croatia
City Walls and Old Town
The crowning jewel of Dubrovnik's medieval architecture is undoubtedly its formidable city walls, which stretch for almost 2 kilometers and encircle the entire Old Town. Built between the 12th and 17th centuries, these massive fortifications served as a defensive barrier against invaders and offer unparalleled views of the city and the shimmering Adriatic Sea beyond. Walking along the walls provides a unique perspective of Dubrovnik's layout, with its red-tiled rooftops, bustling streets, and historic landmarks laid out before you.
Stradun and Sponza Palace
The Stradun, or Placa, is the main thoroughfare of Dubrovnik's Old Town and showcases some of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the city. Lined with elegant palaces, ornate churches, and bustling shops, this pedestrian street is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Admire the Gothic-Renaissance facade of the Sponza Palace, marvel at the baroque splendor of the Church of St. Blaise, and explore the intricate carvings and sculptures of the Rector's Palace, each a testament to Dubrovnik's illustrious past.
Image: Old Town in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Churches and Monasteries
Dubrovnik is home to an array of churches and monasteries that showcase a variety of architectural styles from the medieval period. The Cathedral of the Assumption, with its imposing Romanesque facade and ornate interior, stands as a masterpiece of Croatian Renaissance architecture. The Franciscan Monastery, founded in the 14th century, boasts a beautiful cloister adorned with intricate carvings and a richly decorated pharmacy dating back to the Middle Ages.
Fortresses and Towers
Perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik's fortresses and towers offer a glimpse into the city's military history and strategic importance. The imposing Fort Lovrijenac, also known as the "Gibraltar of Dubrovnik," commands attention with its sheer stone walls and panoramic views. The Minceta Tower, the highest point of the city walls, provides a formidable defense and offers visitors a chance to climb to the top for breathtaking vistas of the city and surrounding countryside.
Image: Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik, Croatia
From its towering city walls to its ornate palaces and churches, every corner of the Old Town Dubrovnik tells a story of resilience, creativity, and timeless beauty.
3. Island Hop the Adriatic Sea
Island hopping in Dubrovnik, Croatia is a dreamy journey through a constellation of emerald jewels scattered across the Adriatic Sea. Dubrovnik, with its medieval charm and azure waters, serves as the perfect gateway to a maritime adventure like no other. From its bustling harbor, you can go adrift on a voyage to explore nearby islands, each offering its own unique allure. One such gem is Lokrum Island, just a short ferry ride away, boasting lush botanical gardens, hidden coves, and the mystical allure of its saltwater lake, home to peacocks and bunnies. Further afield lies the Elafiti archipelago, where the islands of Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep entertain with their unspoiled beaches, verdant landscapes, and coastal charm.
Image: Koločep Island, Croatia
Whether you're seeking secluded sunbathing spots, scenic hiking trails, or authentic island cuisine, island hopping in Dubrovnik promises a magical odyssey through some of the Adriatic's most captivating destinations. As the sun casts its golden glow over the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, travelers set sail on an island-hopping adventure, eager to explore the hidden treasures of the Adriatic Sea.
Image: Korčula Island, Croatia
Each island in the Dubrovnik archipelago holds its own allure, inviting visitors to discover its secrets and soak in its natural beauty. Mljet Island, known as the "green oasis" of the Adriatic, captivates with its dense forests, serene lakes, and ancient monasteries tucked away in secluded bays. Meanwhile, the island of Korčula, birthplace of Marco Polo, enchants with its medieval charm, winding streets, and vineyard-covered hillsides. From exploring underwater caves, indulging in a seafood feast at a waterfront tavern, or simply lounging on a sun-drenched beach, these islands offer a tantalizing escape into a world of tranquility and natural splendor.
4. Discover historic cultural treasures
Dubrovnik, Croatia is a cultural and artistic treasure trove, where centuries of history and tradition converge to create a web of creativity and expression. Dotted along the shores of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik's Old Town serves as the beating heart of its cultural scene, with its cobblestone streets lined with galleries, museums, and theaters. The city's rich heritage is on full display at institutions like the Rector's Palace, home to the Dubrovnik Museum, which showcases artifacts spanning from the medieval period to the present day. Meanwhile, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival transforms the city into a stage for world-class performances, including theater, music, and dance, set against the backdrop of its ancient landmarks.
Image: Rector's Palace in Dubrovnik, Croatia
From contemporary art galleries to traditional folk performances, Dubrovnik's cultural offerings provide a window into the soul of Croatia, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its history, art, and vibrant cultural traditions. Dubrovnik's cultural landscape is a testament to its storied past and dynamic present, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences to create a thriving arts scene.
Image Credit: Museum of Modern Art in Dubrovnik, Croatia
The city's historic churches and monasteries serve as galleries of religious art, showcasing masterpieces by renowned Croatian artists such as Vlaho Bukovac and Ivan Meštrović. Meanwhile, contemporary art galleries like Art Radionica Lazareti and the Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik highlight the work of emerging talents, providing a platform for innovation and creativity. Visitors can also explore Dubrovnik's cultural heritage through its traditional music and dance, with performances of klapa singing and Linđo folk dance captivating audiences with their rhythm and passion. Wander through ancient streets adorned with street art or attend a classical concert in a historic palace — Dubrovnik's cultural and artistic offerings provide endless opportunities for exploration, inspiration, and discovery.
5. Lounge on sun-drenched beaches
Dubrovnik, Croatia is blessed with a coastline adorned with sun-drenched beaches, offering visitors and locals a blissful retreat along the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. The city's beaches are renowned for their pristine beauty, with soft golden sands and gentle turquoise waves lapping against the shore. Banje Beach, just steps away from Dubrovnik's Old Town, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, boasting panoramic views of the historic city walls and the nearby island of Lokrum. Here, sunbathers can lounge on luxurious sunbeds, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or indulge in water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Further along the coast, hidden gems like Copacabana Beach and Sveti Jakov Beach offer secluded spots for relaxation and tranquility, surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation and rugged cliffs.
Image: Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia
If you're looking for a lively beach scene with beach bars and water sports or a secluded cove along the Adriatic coastline for peaceful sunbathing — Dubrovnik's famous beaches are a haven for relaxation and recreation, promising a paradise for beach lovers of all tastes.
Image: Copacabana Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Lapad Beach, located in the vibrant Lapad Bay, offers a spacious stretch of pebbled shoreline surrounded by lush parkland and scenic promenades. Families and sun seekers flock to this popular beach to bask in the Mediterranean sunshine, swim in the calm waters, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade. For those seeking a more secluded escape, the nearby beaches of Copacabana and Cavaletti offer tranquil coves with pristine waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Meanwhile, adventure enthusiasts can explore the underwater world with scuba diving excursions, discovering vibrant marine life and ancient shipwrecks beneath the waves. With its array of sun-kissed beaches and pristine waters, Dubrovnik promises an idyllic coastal paradise where travelers can unwind, recharge, and create unforgettable memories under the Croatian sun.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik
Escape to a world of historic grandeur at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, where Old World charm meets contemporary elegance in the heart of the medieval walls of Dubrovnik's Old Town This iconic hotel offers guests an unforgettable experience surrounded by centuries of history and culture. With an enviable location in the heart of Dubrovnik's UNESCO-listed Old Town, guests have easy access to the iconic city walls, Stradun promenade, and Rector's Palace. Housed within a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the hotel seamlessly blends modern comforts with marble floors and crystal chandeliers, to be transported to a bygone era of luxury and sophistication. Hospitality is paramount, here every guest is treated to personalized service and every detail is carefully curated to ensure a memorable and comfortable stay.
Guests can unwind and rejuvenate at the hotel's exclusive spa, complete with a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool, or stay active at the fully equipped fitness center. Each guest room and suite at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is tastefully appointed with plush furnishings, rich fabrics, luxurious marble bathrooms, and stunning views of the city or the Adriatic Sea, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for every guest. Indulge in exquisite cuisine at Imperial Terrace, serving up a tantalizing array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes crafted with locally-sourced ingredients or sip on the bartender’s latest concoction at The Imperial Bar. Whether you're exploring the city's cultural treasures or relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik serves as the perfect home base for your Croatian adventure. Book below to reserve your stay for the lowest price, guaranteed.
