Dubrovnik is know as the Pearl of the Adriatic. It is one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe, especially after its fame thanks to Game of Thrones. The wild landscapes, brilliant architecture and stunning ocean views will make you fall in love with this city instantly. However, if you visit during the peak summer season, you should expect loads of tourists and very busy spots. In this article, you will find the 3 best things to do during your day trip to Dubrovnik.
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Why is Dubrovnik a must-visit place in Europe ?
Apart from its unique architecture, vibrant ambiance and stunning blue beaches, Dubrovnik is also an interesting historical destination with many churches and important monuments. It is a great year-round travel option. But, it is more dreamy in the summer when you can enjoy the amazing beaches and of course the rooftops of the bars and restaurants for an unforgettable summer experience. Dubrovnik is also one of the most famous Instagrammable places in Croatia, mainly because it is full of photogenic places.
How to get to Dubrovnik ?
Dubrovnik and Croatia in general was part of our Europe road trip. We had our own car to go from one city to another and it was a convenient way. However, we didn’t use it much in Dubrovnik since we were mostly on foot. The closest city to take the bus or ferry boat is Split. Of course, if you only want to visit Dubrovnik, the easiest way is to fly into the local airport and then use public transport to get around. The airport is about half an hour’s drive from the old city. Note that Dubrovnik is crowded in the summer and so is its airport.
Best things to do in Dubrovnik (One Day)
We try to include as many places to visit and things to do in one day as possible. You need to get to the city as early as possible in order to enjoy it to the fullest. But, keep in mind that Dubrovnik is very crowded during peak season. So expect lots of tourists from all over the world.
Our one day itinerary :
- Lovrijenac Fortress
- Old Town and City Walls
- Cathedral
1-Visit the Lovrijenac Fortress
The most iconic place to visit in Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the famous Lovrijenac Fortress. The views of the city are breathtaking. As you can see from the photos, even in moody weather, the wild landscape and the color of the water create an enchanting scene. We visited Dubrovnik in March and not summer. But, the weather was not too cold and even in the rain, this city never stopped surprising us. To reach the fortress, you must first pass through the doors of West Harbour and head up for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
2-Old Town and City Walls
As usual, the old town is a must-visit. But, Dubrovnik has another specific site to visit, the City Walls. So, these two are must-visit places in Dubrovnik. The Medieval architecture of the city with its narrow alleys and hidden gems create a perfect mysterious atmosphere. That’s why it is a real pleasure to wander its streets. However, there are lots of stairs to climb in Dubrovik. So, you should wear comfortable shoes to avoid any difficulty. The City Walls offer breathtaking panoramic views. You should obviously visit them as early as possible in the high season ! While at the walls, we highly recommend going up to Minčeta Fortress. The views will leave you in awe.
In the Old town, you will find many beautiful spots with a unique religious or cultural significance. Jesuit Staircase, Church of Saint Blaise, Franciscan Monastery, Rector’s Palace and the Cathedral are the best places to visit in the Old Town. Especially for your day trip to Dubrovnik, we highly recommend booking guided tours of either the Old Town or the City Walls. You will have the opportunity to learn more about these incredible places without wasting time and money to explore them yourself !
3-Dubrovnik Cathedral
It is one of the most impressive buildings in Dubrovnik. The surrounding area of the Cathedral makes it look even more glorious. The building was badly damaged in 1991. If you look at the facade, there are still recognizable signs. We suggest getting there as early as possible to hear the morning service and have the place to yourself. As we stayed close to the Cathedral, we had the opportunity to enjoy this truly beautiful moment.
Final Thoughts
Dubrovnik has a special place in our hearts. It is actually one of our favourite European destinations all year round. Its natural and architectural beauty are on another level. If you have the chance to visit even as a day trip, just do it ! In addition, organized tours will help you get a good taste of the city in a short time. We can assure you that Dubrovnik will leave you with the best impressions and experiences.
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