Dubrovnik is one of the most unique cities in Europe, with so much to offer visitors eager to learn about the fascinating history and architecture of the city. The city of Dubrovnik was becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination before it became a filming location for the hit HBO TV series Game of Thrones; the additional attention and fame put Dubrovnik even higher on tourists’ bucket lists. Whether you’re planning to visit the city for a week or just for a long weekend, Rewind Dubrovnik would like to help you have the best time possible. So, keep reading to discover some of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic!
Walk Dubrovnik’s Walls
For many who visit Dubrovnik, the best way to tour the city is to walk along the walls that outline the city. Depending on how quickly you walk, this tour lasts around an hour. It’s a fantastic way to see as much of Dubrovnik as possible within a relatively short time, with high-up views of the city that you won’t find any other way. Fans of Game of Thrones who are visiting Dubrovnik will already know that it was the filming location for King’s Landing, and views from the walls will give you the strongest sense that you’re standing in Westeros — you’d even be forgiven for expecting a dragon-shaped shadow to move across the terra cotta-coloured rooftops… Check out our Game of Thrones tour of Dubrovnik to learn more!
Take a Boat Tour from Dubrovnik
For many, the most beautiful aspect of Dubrovnik is the turquoise water surrounding it, framing every beautiful scene. And some people find it impossible to look out at the glistening shores of the city without booking some kind of boat tour. That’s where we come in, with our Custom Speed Boat Tours from Dubrovnik. While the views of the city look great from the walls, Dubrovnik looks just as great from the water. This is why many visitors choose to take a boat tour. Not only can you admire the city from the water, you can also visit some exceptionally beautiful spots nearby, such as the Elaphite Islands and Mljet Island. And, if you’re looking for something really special, consider our Dubrovnik Sunset Boat Tour; there’s nothing like taking in the Dubrovnik sunset from the water!
Visit the Old Pharmacy at the Franciscan Monastery
While the idea of visiting a pharmacy probably hasn’t occurred to most holidaymakers, the old pharmacy in Dubrovnik’s Franciscan Monastery is absolutely worth visiting. Not only was it built in 1317, making it the third oldest pharmacy in the world, it also looks incredible, with much of the building’s original architecture and details. If you’re always on the lookout for unique experiences, then this is a must! As you might expect, you’ll find this ancient apothecary in the city’s famous Old Town, which leads nicely to the next point in this brief guide…
Take a Tour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town
It simply isn’t a visit to Dubrovnik if you don’t spend a considerable amount of time in the Old Town. This neighbourhood in the centre is the oldest part of the city, with medieval fortifications and battlements. One excavation in Old Town even found a basilica dating back to the 8th century. As you walk throughout this stunning and picturesque part of the city, you’ll want to take pictures of everything. You absolutely should do this, but make sure to specifically snap a few memories of Pile Gate and the Church of St Ignatius of Loyola as you explore!
Dubrovnik’s Incredible Rector’s Palace
The Rector’s Palace is a must-see for anyone who loves classical architecture. This fascinating building is an enigmatic combination of different styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The strange combination of styles occurred because the palace has been almost destroyed several times and then rebuilt, with input from a different architect each time. It was initially built in the 14th century, then in 1435 it was partially destroyed in a fire and then rebuilt with a distinctive Gothic style. Further bad luck befell the building over the following decades and centuries in the form of a gunpowder explosion and two earthquakes; and the repairs brought with them new architectural styles: Renaissance and Baroque. The Rector’s Palace was the seat of power of the Rector of the Republic of Ragusa between the 14th century and 1808, but it also served as an armoury, powder storage, watchhouse, and a prison.
That’s all we have time for today. We hope this short guide has convinced at least a few readers to finally stop dreaming about their Dubrovnik trip and to make it a reality! If we’ve convinced you and you’d like to take one of our private boat tours of Dubrovnik or our Dubrovnik land tours, we are very much looking forward to meeting you. And if you have any questions for any of the team here at Rewind Dubrovnik, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your big Dubrovnik adventure could be only a few clicks away!
