Would you like to explore Croatia and also relax by the sea? Then you should definitely consider Dubrovnik as your second travel destination. This port city lies along the glistening waters of the Adriatic coast and enchants visitors with its beautiful architectural buildings and winding alleyways.
You shouldn't miss the following sights in Dubrovnik, as they make this port city a wonderful place to stay. Be impressed by the remnants of history and visit the city walls and Fort Lovrijenac. Also of interest are the various churches and the Dubrovnik Cathedral.
The defensive walls surrounding Dubrovnik are among the best-preserved fortification systems in Europe, stretching 1,940 meters and including five fortresses as well as sixteen towers and bastions. The walls also function as an open-air museum and can be visited all year round. Walk along the walls and explore the centuries-old fortresses that once defended the Republic of Ragusa. The fortresses differ in location and purpose: Three of them (Minčeta, Bokar, and Ivan) are part of the city wall, while the other two (Lovrijenac and Revelin) stand independently. The Minčeta Fortress, located in the upper part of the city, played a crucial role in defending Dubrovnik from the north and is thus seen as a symbol of the city’s defense.
Also worth visiting is Fort Lovrijenac, which sits west of the Old Town on a 37-meter-high cliff. Fort Lovrijenac is a symbol of the city and stands for its freedom. This is underscored by the inscription “NON BENE PRO TOTO LIBERTAS VENDITUR AURO,” which translates to “Freedom is not to be sold for all the gold in the world.” If you’re interested in the city’s history, you’ll learn even more on-site.
Also interesting: Today, the fortress’s interiors and terraces are used for concerts. It’s a spectacular experience! Fort Lovrijenac in particular serves as a stage for summer festivals, many of which feature performances of Shakespeare’s works.
In the past, citizens could only enter the city through two large gates—Ploče (east) and Pile (west). After dark, drawbridges were raised to prevent access. Not far from the Pile Gate is Stradun Street, one of the main streets of Dubrovnik. It's a favorite meeting place for locals and a central hub, especially during traditional folk festivals and processions.
In this charming port city, you can discover Croatia’s history through its unique churches. Enjoy a walk through their peaceful interiors, perfect for a cool break on hot summer days. Notable is the Church of St. Blaise, known for its beautiful organ and ornate stained-glass windows. This baroque church has adorned the city since 1725 and was designed by Venetian architect Marino Gropelli. It’s dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint, St. Blaise, who is also immortalized as a Gothic statue on the main altar. The statue shows not only the saint but also a depiction of Dubrovnik at the time of its creation—holding a model of the city in his left hand. Why is that interesting? An earthquake later destroyed much of the Old Town, so the statue shows visitors how the city once looked.
Another highlight is the Church of the Holy Saviour, a votive church built in 1520, located at the beginning of Stradun. It is closely linked to other earthquakes in Croatia. The church was commissioned by Dubrovnik’s Senate as thanks for surviving a devastating quake—and it survived another major earthquake in 1667. Still standing in its original form, it now hosts concerts and art exhibitions you shouldn’t miss. Also don’t miss the Church of St. Dominic, one of the most important Gothic buildings on the Croatian coast, beloved for its striking simplicity.
The Dubrovnik Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, has adorned the city in its current form since the early 18th century. Historical records describe the old Romanesque cathedral as a richly decorated basilica with an impressive dome. Legend has it that Richard the Lionheart gifted the cathedral to the city in gratitude for his rescue on the island of Lokrum. However, during restoration work in 1981, remains of an even older cathedral were discovered—dating back to the 6th to 8th centuries.
Want to explore more than just the city? Then be sure to add Lokrum Island and the Elaphiti Islands to your travel list.
Lokrum Island is easily accessible by boat from Dubrovnik. During summer, ferries depart every 20 minutes and take you to this 1,600-meter-long and 500-meter-wide island, which is under UNESCO nature protection. Uninhabited and a popular day-trip destination, Lokrum offers the ultimate vacation vibe. Relax on the rocky beaches or at the salt lake Mrtvo more, the island’s highlight. The shallow lake warms up pleasantly in summer.
But it’s not just the beaches that draw visitors—there are also several sights on the island. Visit the Benedictine Monastery or the botanical garden, which houses a wide variety of plants. You can also enjoy a stunning view from Fort Royal, a fortress built by the French.
This charming group of islands lies in the southern Adriatic and enchants visitors with its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming. The stunning natural landscapes of the islands are largely free from the usual road traffic of the mainland. Discover the hidden bays and be captivated by the beauty of this archipelago.
The warmer months (May to September) are ideal for tourists, offering perfect conditions for both city trips and visits to the nearby islands. July and August are peak travel months, but also the most crowded. To avoid the tourist rush, consider traveling in May, June, or September instead.
We wish you a fantastic trip to Croatia and are happy to help with any questions regarding Croatia and its toll regulations. Contact us via email: [email protected]
