Dubrovnik- a medieval old town is known for its stunning landscapes, and even more now for being one of the filming sets of Game of Thrones. Dubrovnik is the ideal destination for culture fans, as pretty much everywhere you walk is centuries old. Not only is it becoming one of the hottest destinations for holidays in Croatia, but it can also amaze you by remaining surprisingly easy on the pocket. We’re deep-diving into the city of Dubrovnik to discover everything it has to offer from luxury to history-
Where to stay:
Dubrovnik has 5 main neighborhoods. Namely, the Old Town is the main tourist attraction, whereas Lapad and Babin Kuk are known for wide-open spaces and lots of great beaches. Hotel Stari Grad brings old-fashioned charm to a 21st-century eight-room boutique hotel in Dubrovnik’s old town. Rooms are stylish and plush, with contemporary bathrooms and also a small spa.
Nearby is Lapad, set on a bay with easy access to the Old Town, where you can opt for Hotel Lapad, situated in an elegant building by the waterfront on the Lapad peninsula. It boats of renaissance gardens, heated swimming pool and overlooks the harbor. Villa Orsula is a 1930s white stone villa that offers discreet luxury, impeccable service, and sublime sea views towards Dubrovnik’s old town walls. It is quaint with only 13 rooms, a chic restaurant with tables on a vine-draped terrace, and a secret beach. To make the most of your stay in Dubrovnik, take a day to enjoy a full-day excursion from Dubrovnik to Split. Take a ferry From Dubrovnik To Split enjoy a scenic ride along the Dalmatian Coast, stopping once or twice for panoramic views across the Adriatic Sea.
Where to shop:
Dubbed ‘Pearl of the Adriatic,’ the dazzling city of Dubrovnik is more than the unique World Heritage-listed Old Town and spectacular architectural marvels. The Old Town’s main artery and Dubrovnik’s famous promenade, Stradun or Placa, is the most important street in the city. This cobble-stoned street is the best place for all your high-end and touristy Dubrovnik shopping, from the city’s famous filigree jewelry to scarves, souvenirs, and wines. DOC mall is for Dubrovnik fashion shopping and a decent place to hang out for a few hours in Lapad. The Maria Store is one of the city’s pioneering luxury boutique stores. It houses the finest range of women’s apparel like Gucci, Givenchy, YSL, Alexander Wang, and Stella McCartney. Dubrovnik shopping is a delight for those who appreciate exclusive & exquisite hand-crafted products. The Uje store is the place to go for All Things Olive and House Of Nature offers 100% Organic Croatian Cosmetics.
Where to Eat:
Dubrovnik is bustling with various restaurants, from fine dining restaurants, bistros, simple taverns to fast food joints, street food stands, and pizza-cut places. Dubrovnik restaurants excel in fish and seafood. Sushi & Oyster Bar Bota is a family-run restaurant with a long tradition located in a small alley next to the Cathedral and is one of the best Dubrovnik old town restaurants. The menu includes fresh oysters and oyster tempura, fresh sushi, sashimi, spring rolls, and few local specialties, including homemade tuna prosciutto and fish carpaccio. Stara Loza is a fine dining restaurant located on the third floor of the boutique hotel Prijeko Palace. For a truly memorable meal, head to the outdoor terraces and savor starters like tuna tartar, veggies tempura, thyme gnocchi, or basil risotto, along with a splendid view. Restaurant 360 is a great place to celebrate a special occasion and is the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Dubrovnik. The setting is unbeatable as its located right within the Dubrovnik city walls. Eating 5-course tasting menus on the top of city walls and overlooking the old port is the way to enjoy the good life in Dubrovnik!
Final thoughts:
To make your Game of Thrones fantasies come true, visit the city from May to August. It’s best to visit during the late spring when you can wander the city freely and enjoy ‘Game of Thrones’ tours.
