How To Spend A Day In Dubrovnik Croatia

Perched on bluer-than-blue waters, with sun-baked mountains jutting out into the horizon, Dubrovnik really does live up to its hype as one of Europe’s bucket-list destinations. But as Croatia’s most popular seaside resort, the compact Dubrovnik is no longer anybody’s best-kept secret, and the streams of sightseers can become quite intense. Read our guide to find out how to spend an enjoyable day in Dubrovnik while steering clear of the crowds.

7.00am

Start your day in typical Dalmatian fashion: with a coffee and a pastry. Croatians prefer a light, continental breakfast, and unless you’re staying in a hotel, it’s unlikely you’ll find an authentic café serving up cooked breakfast – aside from the subpar tourist traps. Dubrovnik is dotted with terrific bakeries, so pick up a pastry and plonk yourself down on a café terrace along Stradun, Dubrovnik’s medieval promenade. It’s made for people watching.

8.00am

10.00am

Now you’ve gathered your bearings, savour the city from a different perspective by zooming up Mount Srd in a cable car. The ascension to the top of the mountain affords breathtaking views of the Old Town and the brilliant blue Adriatic. At the top, Restaurant Panorama boasts more lovely views over Dubrovnik and the Elaphite Islands. While the food here is decent enough, its prime location means premium prices. Adventurous travellers may want to bring a packed lunch and hike down the arid foothills of the mountain.

2.00pm

Dubrovnik’s in-town eateries are unashamedly pricey, but if you want to grab a bite to eat before hitting the beach there are a few good-value options. Buffet Skola is the place for fresh, quality sandwiches. If you’re searching for seafood, Bota Sare does a good line in reasonably priced sushi. Gundulićeva Poljana, the open-air market in the centre of the Old Town, is perfect for padding out your picnic basket.

3.00pm

Spend the afternoon sunbathing on Sveti Jakov, a gorgeous rock and shingle beach just a 20 minute ramble from the centre. More secluded than the city beaches, you’re guaranteed a more laid-back experience, with striking views of Dubrovnik’s iconic fortress.

1. 00pm

Bar

Settle with a sundowner at Buza Bar. Perched on the rocks beneath the walls, the two cliff bars Buža I and Buža II offer a spectacular setting to enjoy a beer, a swim and a blazing sunset.

Crijevićeva ul. 9, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia, +385 98 361 934

8.00pm

There’s a great variety of dining spots in Dubrovnik depending on your budget. 360 is the top table in town, frequented by holidaying celebs – but as you’d expect, the mains aren’t cheap. Nautika is an excellent restaurant with more modest prices, but is still dear by much of Croatia’s standards. For cheap, caught-that-day fish, try the great value Lokanda Peskarija; bang on the main port, it’s popular with locals and in-the-know visitors.

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