Words by Elaine Wilson
Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city in southern Croatia. It has history, medieval architecture, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Its nickname is “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Historical significance combined with modern amenities makes this an incredibly popular destination for visitors from across the globe.
Highlights are its UNESCO-listed Old Town and its connection to the popular TV series Game of Thrones. Here are some of the must-do activities in this captivating city. I stayed for three nights at the upscale Valamar Lacroma Hotel, just a short bus ride away from the city itself.
Top things to do in Dubrovnik
One of the most iconic things to do in Dubrovnik is to walk the city’s ancient walls
Walk the city walls
One of the most iconic things to do in Dubrovnik is to walk the city’s ancient walls. Stretching for nearly two kilometers and surrounding the Old Town, these walls date back to the 12th century, though they were fortified and expanded in later centuries. You pass through fortresses like the Minceta Tower, Bokar Fortress, and St. John Fortress. Each offers a unique vantage point and incredible views of the city’s terracotta rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. Walking the walls not only gives you insight into Dubrovnik’s medieval defence system, but also lets you see the city’s layout from above, with great photo opportunities.
Discover Dubrovnik’s Old Town
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The cobbled streets, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings, and well-preserved landmarks make the Old Town feel like a journey through time. The main street, Stradun, runs through the heart of the Old Town. Shops, cafes, and historical monuments line the narrow streets.
Notable sites include the Rector’s Palace, once home to the city’s ruler during its time as the independent Republic of Ragusa, and the Sponza Palace, an architectural masterpiece that once served as a customs house. The Old Town is also home to the Dubrovnik Cathedral, whose treasury contains relics of St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint.
Book a Game of Thrones tour
Dubrovnik shot to worldwide fame as one of the primary filming locations for the hit series Game of Thrones. The city’s medieval architecture and dramatic landscapes were the perfect backdrop for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Several key scenes were filmed in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, including Cersei Lannister’s infamous “Walk of Shame.”
Fans of the show can take specialised Game of Thrones tours that lead visitors to filming locations such as Fort Lovrijenac, the Red Keep in the series, and the Jesuit Staircase, where Cersei’s walk began. These tours offer behind-the-scenes stories and insights into how Dubrovnik was transformed into the fictional world of Westeros.
For unparalleled panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area, a ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car is a must
Ride the cable car
For unparalleled panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area, a ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car is a must. The cable car takes you up Mount Srđ, a hill that rises just behind the city. At the summit, you’ll have breathtaking views of the Old Town, the Adriatic coastline, and the nearby islands, such as Lokrum and the Elaphite Islands.
On clear days, you can see as far as 60 kilometers (37 miles). There’s a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy a meal with a view, as well as a museum dedicated to the Homeland War, which played a crucial role in the city’s recent history.
Uncover Dubrovnik’s maritime and war history
Dubrovnik has a fascinating maritime history, having been a powerful city-state known as the Republic of Ragusa from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The city’s wealth and independence are largely built on trade and diplomacy. The Dubrovnik Maritime Museum, located in the St. John Fortress, is a great place to learn about this period. Furthermore, it showcases models of ships, navigational instruments, and maps that illustrate the city’s seafaring past.
Where to stay
The Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, part of the renowned Valamar Hotels and Resorts group, is among the top places to stay in Dubrovnik
Enjoy modern luxury at the Valamar Lacroma Hotel
The Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, part of the renowned Valamar Hotels and Resorts group, is among the top places to stay in Dubrovnik. The hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. Situated on the tranquil Babin Kuk peninsula, just a short distance from Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the hotel provides a serene escape. It has stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and nearby Elaphiti Islands.
Valamar Lacroma is a contemporary four-star property. Excellent service, elegant design, and extensive amenities are all on offer here. The hotel features 385 spacious and modern rooms and suites. Rooms are all equipped with high-end facilities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Many rooms offer balconies with dramatic sea and mountain views.
Dining at the Valamar Lacroma
For dining, the hotel has two main restaurants. The Lacroma Buffet Restaurant is a real highlight. It has a huge selection of Mediterranean and international dishes with different delicious fresh cuts of beef, pork or chicken to choose from every day. Tasty desserts and cheeses are also on offer at every meal. The Momenti Restaurant offers an à la carte experience, specialising in fine dining and local cuisine. The hotel also features bars, including a poolside bar, where guests can enjoy refreshments while soaking in the scenic surroundings.
One of the Valamar Lacroma’s standout features is its extensive wellness and spa facilities
The spa at the Valamar Lacroma
One of the hotel’s standout features is its extensive wellness and spa facilities. The Ragusa Spa offers a variety of treatments, including a range of massages. There is a lovely indoor and outdoor pool, fitness centre, and saunas. Outside there are comfortable sun beds and pretty gardens. This makes it a perfect destination for those just wanting to relax.
The huge vases of gorgeous fresh flowers in the lobby are an elegant touch. Sit outside on the comfortable couches over an evening nightcap and you are sure to get a warm welcome from the friendly, well fed, hotel cats!
As part of the Valamar Hotels and Resorts group, which is Croatia’s leading tourism brand, Valamar Lacroma maintains the company’s high standards of hospitality. Valamar operates numerous properties across Croatia’s Adriatic coast, focusing on delivering a premium experience through sustainability, innovation, and guest satisfaction.
With its ideal location, upscale amenities, and exceptional service, Valamar Lacroma is a top choice for travellers looking for a luxurious stay in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik is a real Croatian highlight
Dubrovnik is a city where history and culture come alive
Dubrovnik is a city where history and culture come alive. It offers visitors a chance to explore ancient fortifications and to stroll through beautifully preserved medieval streets. You can even step into the world of Game of Thrones. However, do think about the timing of your visit as it is extremely busy here right through the summer season. Aim to go in early spring or late autumn when the visitor numbers are lower.