Dubrovnik City Break for History Buffs & Adventurers

Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With its well-preserved medieval walls, the charming Old Town is filled with architectural wonders, museums overflowing with artifacts, and a rich history as a maritime republic. Add the crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal scenery, and you can see why it’s called the Pearl of the Adriatic.

Whether you’re a Game of Thrones fan, a history lover, or simply looking for a place to unwind, Dubrovnik offers an unforgettable escape. A Dubrovnik city break is the ideal getaway for travellers who want a mix of culture, adventure and relaxation. I fell in love with Dubrovnik, and I think you will, too.

A brief history of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to the 7th century. The area around present-day Dubrovnik has been inhabited since ancient times. It was initially settled by Illyrians and later came under Roman rule in the 1st century AD.

Dubrovnik emerged as a significant maritime power in the Middle Ages. In the 7th century, it became part of the Byzantine Empire before establishing itself as the independent Mediterranean city-state known as the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th century. This period saw the construction of the city walls and the flourishing of trade and commerce.

Dubrovnik experienced its golden age during the 15th and 16th centuries. As a major trading hub on the Adriatic Sea, it enjoyed prosperity and cultural flourishing. The city-state established diplomatic relations with other European powers and became known for its advanced governance, diplomacy, and maritime law.

During the Renaissance, Dubrovnik saw significant cultural and architectural developments. The city’s wealthy merchants and aristocracy commissioned the construction of palaces, churches, and public buildings, many of which still stand today.

Recommended tours for your Dubrovnik city break:

• Take a cruise to the Elaphite Islands with lunch and drinks. Book your spot today!
• Discover the Old Town of Dubrovnik with a walking tour. Save your spot before you go.
• Zip line from Mount Srdj and enjoy the breathtaking views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Don’t miss out, get your tickets now.

Despite its independence, Dubrovnik faced threats from neighbouring powers, including the Ottoman Empire and the Republic of Venice. The city successfully defended itself against numerous sieges, maintaining its autonomy and preserving its cultural identity. In the early 19th century, Dubrovnik came under French control during the Napoleonic Wars before being annexed by the Austrian Empire. This marked the beginning of a period of decline for the once-mighty Republic of Ragusa.

Following World War I, Dubrovnik became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and later the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia under Marshal Tito. In the 1990s, Croatia declared independence, leading to the Croatian War of Independence. Dubrovnik endured a devastating siege during this conflict but has since been rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

What to do on your Dubrovnik city break

Dubrovnik is a dream destination for history and culture buffs. Thanks to its easy access from major European cities, you can enjoy a 5-day city break or even a shorter weekend trip while experiencing the natural beauty of the Dubrovnik Riviera. Walk through the main street of Dubrovnik Old Town, take a cable car ride to the top of Srđ Hill for stunning views, or set off on a short boat ride to explore the nearby islands.

Explore the Old Town (Stari Grad)

One of the best free things to do in Dubrovnik is to get lost in the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Here, you can marvel at its well-preserved medieval walls, historic buildings and charming squares. Encircled by medieval fortifications, the walls of the Old Town offer a remarkable blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

While wandering the Old Town, make sure to enter Pile Gate, the grand entrance that welcomes visitors into the city’s heart. From here, you’ll step onto the main street, Stradun, lined with historic buildings, cafés, and lively squares.

Walk the old city walls

Take a stroll along the ancient city walls of the Old Town for breathtaking panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik Riviera, and the iconic red-roofed buildings. This is one of the best places to experience the charm of Dubrovnik from above.

All the orange rooftops glisten in the sunshine—uniform and orderly. You can imagine the hustle and bustle of the days when this was an active shipping port. Merchants and seamen arrive daily at this fortified city that seems to spill into the water from the coastline.

As you wander the narrow walls, you can imagine the watchmen who walked along the same walls many centuries ago. Did they marvel at the city below that was under their watch? Maybe they wondered what lay across the dark blue waters and what dangers lurked there. Or, most likely, they were frying in the heat just like we were.

Visit Fort Lovrijenac

Explore the St. Lawrence fortress, known as Fort Lovrijenac, standing proudly outside the city walls. This fortress offers amazing views of the Old Town and is a must-visit for Game of Thrones fans, as it served as the setting for the Red Keep.

Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car

To see the best views of Dubrovnik, you must take the Dubrovnik cable car. It’s located just outside the city gates and goes up to the Imperial Port on Mount Srd. Napoleon built the fort, which opened on his birthday. The man didn’t do anything halfway. Book your tour of the old town and the cable car now.

Located just outside the city gates, the cart goes up to the Imperial Port on Mount Srd, built by Napoleon. It opened on his birthday. The man didn’t do anything halfway. Book your tour of the old town and the cable car now.

Explore the Rector’s Palace (Knežev dvor)

Once the seat of the Republic of Ragusa’s government, the Rector’s Palace now houses the Cultural History Museum. It showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing Dubrovnik’s political, cultural, and economic history. The palace’s architecture, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflects the city’s rich heritage.

Wander the Sponza Palace

Built in the 16th century, Sponza Palace is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. It originally served as a customs house and mint but later became a treasury and armoury. Today, it houses the State Archives, preserving valuable historical documents and manuscripts dating back to the Middle Ages. Sponza Palace’s facade is a beautiful example of Venetian Renaissance architecture, often hosting art exhibitions and other events.

Visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral (Katedrala Velike Gospe)

This stunning Baroque-style cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, is in the heart of the Old Town. It houses a treasury with relics, paintings, and sculptures dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral’s architecture and religious significance make it a must-visit for cultural travellers.

Explore the Franciscan Monastery and Museum

Founded in the 14th century, this monastery complex is renowned for its Romanesque-Gothic architecture and serene cloister. The attached museum displays a rich collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Dubrovnik’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Visit the War Photo Limited Museum

For a more recent perspective on Dubrovnik’s history, visit the War Photo Limited. The museum is dedicated to photojournalism, documenting conflicts around the world. It often features exhibitions highlighting the Siege of Dubrovnik during the Croatian War of Independence, offering insight into the city’s resilience and recovery.

Visit the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum

Croatia has a long and rich maritime history, and Dubrovnik was no exception. This museum, housed in the 16th-century Fort St. John, delves into Dubrovnik’s seafaring past through exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, and famous seafarers. You’ll also find maritime artifacts, ship models, and historical maps.

Relax at Banje Beach

After a day of exploring, take some free time to relax at Banje Beach, the best beach near the Old Town. With its crystal-clear waters and proximity to Dubrovnik’s main attractions, it’s perfect for unwinding while enjoying the coastline’s natural beauty.

Take a short boat ride to Lokrum Island

A Dubrovnik city break wouldn’t be complete without visiting Lokrum Island, a nature reserve just a short boat ride from the Old Port. The island is home to lush botanical gardens, a Benedictine Monastery, and wild peacocks roaming freely.

Enjoy seafood and Croatian cuisine

Indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Croatian dishes at one of Dubrovnik’s restaurants, cafes, and taverns. Make sure to sample the local wine and olive oil for an ultimate Croatian experience. Want to indulge in local specialties? Book your culinary and wine tour to get the most out of your visit.

Dubrovnik Game of Thrones experience

If you are a massive fan of Game of Thrones, you might recognize Dubrovnik as the setting for some scenes. The production has brought a lot of fans to visit what is the King’s Landing on the show. The place is spectacular, so it’s easy to see why they would choose this as the location. The show uses a lot of CGI to make King’s Landing even more spectacular, but you will recognize it once you see it in person. The location will impress you even if you’ve never watched the show.

Where to stay during your Dubrovnik city break

For an immersive Dubrovnik city break experience, stay in the Old Town. Outside the medieval walls, there is another modern part of Dubrovnik that offers several accommodations, restaurants and shops. If you want to spend more time here, there are many wonderful options to choose from.

We opted to stay in a nearby town called Cavtat. It is located near the airport and offers beautiful views of the sea, little restaurants and cute shops. Cavtat is a lovely seaside resort with hotels, villas and yachts. It’s also a short boat taxi ride to Dubrovnik, making getting in and out of the city convenient.

Cavtat is an ancient city on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. Here, you’ll find pebble beaches, artsy attractions, and ancient Illyrian necropolises. Because of its geography and climate, Cavtat feels similar to many small Italian towns on the other side of the sea. The food is outstanding, the locals are friendly, and you can easily explore other Croatian islands.

How to get to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s popularity as a city break destination is mainly due to its accessibility. Whether you’re flying in for a few nights’ city break or making it part of a total holiday package, getting here is simple. Once you arrive, the Lapad Peninsula and other parts of the city are easily reachable by local buses, taxis, or even a scenic walk from the Old Port.

• By air: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is the main international gateway, offering easy access from major European cities. The airport is just a short drive from the city, with shuttle buses and taxis readily available.

• By sea: Dubrovnik is a common stop for Mediterranean cruises. Ferries also connect Dubrovnik to other Croatian destinations, including Split and the small island of Mljet.

• By land: If you’re already in Croatia, buses run regularly between Dubrovnik and other cities like Split and Zagreb. However, keep in mind that Dubrovnik is geographically separate from the rest of Croatia due to the small Bosnian coastline at Neum.

Tips for a responsible Dubrovnik city break

Dubrovnik’s rise as a popular destination has led to concerns about overtourism, particularly in peak season, when the city’s narrow streets and historic sites can become overcrowded. While tourism is essential to Dubrovnik’s economy, visitors need to travel responsibly to help preserve the city’s local culture and heritage. Here are some ways you can experience Dubrovnik while being a responsible traveller:

• Visit outside of peak season: If your travel dates are flexible, consider a Dubrovnik city break in spring or autumn when crowds are smaller and the experience is more enjoyable.

• Stay overnight: Many visitors arrive on cruise ships and only spend a few hours in the charming Old Town. Booking a hotel or apartment in Dubrovnik ensures your trip benefits local businesses beyond just the main attractions.

• Respect the rules: Dubrovnik has introduced measures to protect its UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik Old Town, including restrictions on rolling suitcases due to noise and guidelines on waste disposal. Be mindful of these rules while exploring.

• Choose a guided tour with a local expert: Opt for a guided tour led by a local to enhance your experience and support those who call Dubrovnik home.

• Be mindful of where you eat and shop: Seek out local cuisine at small, family-run restaurants rather than international chains. The best restaurants often showcase fresh seafood, traditional Croatian dishes, and local wines.

• Respect nature and heritage sites: Whether visiting Banje Beach, the Dubrovnik Riviera, or taking a short boat ride to nearby islands, follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering, respect wildlife, and refrain from touching historic monuments.

Final thoughts on a Dubrovnik city break

From the moment we arrived, I loved Dubrovnik. Maybe it’s the history nerd in me, or perhaps it’s the photographer who loves architecture. We were all in our element here. The sun was shining, the ocean waves crashed in the distance, and I stood there wondering why it took me so long to indulge in a Dubrovnik city break.

If you’re visiting in peak season, expect a lively atmosphere with buzzing restaurants and entertainment. In the off-season, the city’s local culture shines, offering a quieter yet equally captivating experience. Whatever your travel dates, a Dubrovnik city break is always a good time. Dubrovnik as it’s a gorgeous city to explore, with loads of history and amazing architecture. What else can you want?