Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Our Croatian Adventure - Things to do in Dubrovnik

Today marks the last of my Croatian travel posts, I've really enjoyed doing these little recaps and I'm especially proud of the fact that they'll serve as a travel diary full of hints and inspiration for any would be Croatian travellers.
As I only really explored Old Town Dubrovnik, this post will focus on bits and pieces to do in and around this area. What I would say as my first handy tip is that the water fountains all have drinkable water so be sure to keep a water bottle on you and keep refilling whenever you get the chance. You can no doubt spot a chap to the right of the frame doing just this!
One of the great things about Dubrovnik is that it's a great city to just waddle around at your own pace. Most of the pathways on the main strip are paved with limestone which has become so polished over the years that it almost looks like glass.
The main street is called Placa or Stradun and is full of cute little shops and boutiques including a pirate sweet shop (yes I ventured in, yes it was awesome) which sold giant gummy bears, enormous cola bottles and humongous fried eggs which would bring joy to any person. There were also pharmacies complete with all of my favourite brands such as Avene, Vichy and Ren so a great place for beauty lovers as well.
Of course, there are many side streets which are also worth your time as they sell a variety of wares ranging from olive oil, chutneys and brandies to Game of Thrones memorabilia and art work by local artists. Be warned however, many streets do involve steps!
I believe that during the week the square situated by the Rectors Palace also plays host to a farmers market making Dubrovnik quite the destination for foodies. Here you can purchase many local delights including candied orange peel for which every family has their own recipe, no two bags will be alike.
Aside from general wandering, there are plenty of places to visit in Dubrovnik including the Cathedral above, the Rectors Palace as previously mentioned and several gardens which are tucked away.
If that doesn't take your fancy, then I would highly suggest a walk around the City Walls which offers some amazing views of the Old Town.
If however, the City Walls aren't quite high enough for you, then perhaps a trip up the Dubrovnik cable car will be more to your liking?
A round trip costs around 108 Kuna per person and the views from the top are spectacular. It takes around 4 minutes to ride to the top which is situated 405 metres above sea level. 
From the top you have a wonderful view of the Old Town, the island of Lokrum and far beyond. We were lucky enough to have visited on a clear day so we could see for miles.
 Another view from the top
The newer side of Dubrovnik
Sorry, I couldn't help sharing so many photographs from the top. It really was beautiful up there. If you're so inclined there is a cafe serving food and drinks, a gift shop and of course, there's a toilet so don't panic about being caught short.
Once you're back on the ground, then be sure to take some time to explore a little outside of the city walls. If nothing else, it offers a break from plethora of tourists.
When all is said and done I'd recommend heading home via ferry as it lets you see the city in a new light. We took the ferry to and from Dubrovnik via Cavtat which took about 45 minutes each way at a cost of 9 Kuna each return if I remember rightly.

2 comments:

  1. Great post! I also went to Dubrovnik this past July and can't wait to return already! It was lovely having your blog to reminisce over and compare to my experiences. If you have a moment I'd love to get your opinion on my Croatia posts on my blog at thisisyugen.blogspot.com.

    Keep up the good work,
    Elle
    http://thisisyugen.blogspot.com

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    Replies
    1. Hi Elle,

      Thank you so much for your sweet words, I apologise for the delay in coming back to you! I'm so pleased my Croatia posts helped you to reminisce over your own trip and I'll be sure to check out your posts as I'm hoping to venture back there in the not too distant future, it was so beautiful!

      Laura x

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