Dubrovnik, Croatia - 2
Head outside the Old Town and take the Dubrovnik cable car to Srđ Mountain. Enjoy 360-degree views on the 4-minute journey to the top, then slowly enjoy views of the old town and beyond from up high. Not only is the view stunning at the top of the hill – you'll also find a souvenir shop and a restaurant with a unique view.
The Dominican monastery was built in 1225 and is located in the northeast corner of Dubrovnik's Old Town. A special set of stairs outside was used as a Game of Thrones filming location and is therefore often inundated with selfie-takers, but the rest of the sprawling complex is just as worthy of Instagram posts. The cloisters and courtyards in the middle of the Gothic monastery are very beautiful and offer a little peace, silence and shade on a hot day.
Dubrovačka Kuća is a treasure trove full of gifts, souvenirs, and cultural delights that appeal to those looking to bring back some memories from Dubrovnik. Located below the Dominican monastery and just a short walk from the parish prefect's residence, even this ancient building itself is a pleasure to visit. The shop is filled with local arts, crafts, ceramics, glassware and jewelry from floor to ceiling. There are also many delicious traditional delicacies, from sweets and preserves to olive oil and excellent local wines. Nowhere else does Dubrovnik's heritage be displayed like it.
Dubrovnik's Westport is known as a Game of Thrones filming location rather than as a place to moor ships. There are 2 huge rocks that make access to secluded bays very challenging, and most captains prefer the larger old port. Instead, this port is mainly used as a starting point for sea kayaking tours. The 2 bastions at the entrance to the harbor – St. Lawrence and Boca Fort – make it both beautiful and very safe against invaders.
Banje Beach is Dubrovnik's most popular and arguably the most beautiful beach. To the east of the Old Town, you can enjoy a great view of Lokrum Island from the cobblestone sand, and the Old Port is on your right.
Koločep Island is one of the Elaphiti Islands, just 20 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik. There are 2 villages on the island: Upper Celo and Lower Celo. The island itself has several beautiful sandy beaches and rocky ocean pools.
The Elaphiti Islands are an archipelago located off the coast of Dubrovnik. Embrace Croatia's beautiful weather and head out to sea for a full-day island hopping tour around the Adriatic Sea. The 3 most popular islands include Šipan (the largest), charming Koločep and Lopud – the most beautiful of them. Many cruise operators operating trips to the Elapfiti Islands offer lunch and often have the option of snorkeling.
Betina Cave is a huge cave located in one of the many bays on the coast around Dubrovnik. Not accessible by land, there are plenty of boat trips out there, or you can rent a kayak and paddle yourself to this relatively secluded place. Despite being located less than a kilometer east of Dubrovnik's Old Town, this cave boasts striking scenery and a sense of isolation, offering couples a charming little place.
St. Jakov Beach is a secluded beach located at the end of a coastal walk east of Dubrovnik's Old Town. The coast here is pebbled sand, while the sea is particularly clean and vivid blue - well worth the 163 steps down the cliff. There are loungers and umbrellas for rent and there is a small restaurant at the south end.
Konavle is a rural area not far off the coast of Dubrovnik. Accessible by bus from Old Town, Conneville is known for its striking natural beauty, including waterfalls, watermills and canals.
Trsteno Botanical Garden - Beautiful flowers, ponds, sculptures and views worth a visit.
Dubrovnik is known for its breathtaking coastline, and what better way to see it for yourself than sitting in a sea kayak? There are many places where you can rent a kayak and explore the coast at your leisure, with many operators to choose from, most of which can take you on a truly magical 3-hour sunset tour. You'll paddle under the city walls, explore impressive caves, take a dip in the water, and watch the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Libertas is responsible for public transport in Dubrovnik. There are 13 bus lines in operation, covering the whole city. Most of the buses are modern, air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible. One-way bus tickets can be purchased on the bus, at the Dubrovnik tourist corner or at the ticket booth. Valid for 1 hour and allows you to change bus lines.
Take a taxi in Dubrovnik. Taxis are not allowed in the Old Town. You can easily find taxi ranks outside the hotel, near the old town gates, and at the main bus and ferry terminals. Unless the ride is prepaid, it is usually not possible to pay for the ride with a credit card, so be sure to bring some cash.
Amfora Restaurant. Everyone in the tour will love this offshore. Casual, family-friendly restaurant.
