Welcome to Dubrovnik!
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About Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a city on the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea, a seaport and the center of Dubrovnik-Neretva County. Its total population is 42,615 (2011 census). In 1979, the city of Dubrovnik was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in recognition of its outstanding medieval architecture and fortified old town.
The history of the city probably dates back to the 7th century, when the town known as Ragusa was founded by refugees from Epidaurum (Ragusa Vecchia). It was under the protection of the Byzantine Empire and later under the sovereignty of the Republic of Venice. Between the 14th and 19th centuries, Dubrovnik ruled itself as a free state. The prosperity of the city was historically based on maritime trade; as the capital of the maritime Republic of Ragusa, it achieved a high level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries, as it became notable for its wealth and skilled diplomacy. At the same time, Dubrovnik became a cradle of Croatian literature.
In the early 19th to early 20th century, Dubrovnik was part of the Kingdom of Dalmatia within the Austrian Empire. Dubrovnik became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia immediately upon its creation, and it was incorporated into its Zeta Banovina in 1929, before becoming part of the Banovina of Croatia upon its creation in 1939. During World War II, it was part of the Axis puppet state Independent State of Croatia, before being reincorporated into SR Croatia in SFR Yugoslavia.
In 1991, during the Croatian War of Independence, Dubrovnik was besieged by the Yugoslav People’s Army for seven months and suffered significant damage from shelling. After undergoing repair and restoration works in the 1990s and early 2000s, it re-emerged as one of the Mediterranean’s top tourist destinations, as well as a popular filming location.
*A special thank you to Cities in 4K who do a wonderful job inspiring us to travel. Check out the link above and click to see other incredible videos from all over the world. Click Visit Dubrovnik for the Official Travel site.
City Planning Guide
Maps & Other Resources
Visit the GPS My City website: for self-guided walks in Dubrovnik. This site also contains information on some of the best places to see. You can even read about and choose the sites to create your own custom map. The maps cover everything from historical landmarks to world-class museums, charming neighborhoods and shopping. You will also find many articles that are super helpful as you plan your trip.
Eat Play & Stay
For some of our top recommendations and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, check out the slider below. We have vetted these based on past stays or future bucket list goals. There are many other choices that fit each style and taste, so be sure to click the additional links below to narrow down options on things to do, and where to eat & stay.
Feel free to click on the slider or the icon at the top right to stop the slide and the arrow to continue.
The view and ambiance is breathtaking . The restaurant servies mediterrian options and is a graet place after walking the city walls at sunset. Be sure to get a table by the harbor for the most amazing experience, Click on Explore More for other options.
Ranked as one of the most highly recommended restaurant in Dubrovnik, it offers local flavors made with love and tradition."At Heritage of Dubrovnik, nothing is ever as it seems. We try to seamlessly blend our history and modern - so we can give our guests the best gastronomical experience of our rich past!". The reviews speak for themselves!
Dubrovnik is an easy town to walk. We highly suggest signing up for a walking tour once you arrive, It will give you a great foundation for future eploring. There are many options on Get Your Guide, Airbnb Experiences, etc. Local Guide, Jadranka, shares local stories and incredible history. You can find out more about her small group tour by clicking Explore More.
Can you imagine this amazing experience to see the sunset amongt the water and rocks? This tour is extremely affordable and a once in a lifetime experience to view this beuatiful town from the shoreline. Click on Explore More to learn more about this exciting activity.
If you are looking to stay in the Old Town and get a real flavor of the city, your best bet is Airbnb. You will find some incredible apartments (many for under $100 per night). This studio is no exception. Click on the photo or title to see its incredible location and the views. This studio even sleeps 4.
Hotel More is a little outside the city center but it offers so much! It is an extremely affordable option that sits right on the cliff and close to incredible beaches. The view from the pool in priceless. Click Explore More to find out more about this terrific hotel.
Just outside the city gates is this incredible studio with the most amazing views. It is one of the most afforable as well, far less then $100 per night. Be sure to check out the many apartments on Airbnb. It is surprising how affordable accomodation is. Click Explore More to find out about this great Airbnb.
For the most comprehensive travel guides out there, click Trip Savvy and Culture Trip below! These travel sites hire local writers and expert travelers to share the most relevant articles and best tips in the industry! Branding belongs to each respecitve company.
Get Your Guide Options
Local Spotlight
Before You Go...
Rok, one of our favorite vloggers, shares the best times to go and other helpful tips before you plan your trip to Dubrovnik.
Things to Do
We love how Rok brings history & culture along with great tips. His tips can help you plan a terrific trip. There is so much to see and do that it is worth a look!
15 Things to Do!
Samuel & Audrey are expert travelers and vloggers who always manage to find the best gems in a city. They love to share their experiences, including local eateries.
Amateur Traveler
Amateur Traveler interviews Kate from Adventurouskate.com who has spent much time in Croatia. She discusses Dubrovnik and some of the islands nearby. Click SHOW NOTES to be taken to Chris’ Page on the perfect Croatia Itinerary.
More on Dubrovnik...
Suitcase Monkey
We love Suitcase Monkey’s style. He is quirky and fun. and always delivers the best suggestions. In this video, he takes us along to Dubrovnik. Be sure to follow his other videos on his many travels.
Rick Steves, the most dedicated travel guru adds valuable information to any trip to Europe. If you have about 30 minutes it is worth a view! Be sure to check out the video and click Explore More for Rick’s Guide to Dubrovnik.
Off the Beaten Path
Find out what it’s like to eat in a real local’s house, as expert home cook Marija welcomes you to her cozy terrace. Sitting at a large table underneath a grapevine covered lattice, watch as Marija and her husband Zlatko will cook an amazing feast for you. Drink local wine and artisanal grappa, dine on local delicacies, while making friends.
Balkan Side Trips
Rick Steves has a short video on some great day trips from Dubrovnik. There are many options, short a short drive away. Think about Dubrovnik and add in neighboring islands and areas.
Korcula Island
Kate from Adventurouskate.com has put together a great blogpost on the stunning island of Korcula. It is very close to Dubrovnik for a short visit. She also mentions the lovely area where the ferry departs as a nice place to stop and enjoy.