Table of Contents
Introduction: Step Into the Timeless Beauty of Dubrovnik Old City
Dubrovnik Old City is a place anchored on a shore on the shores of the glittering Adriatic Sea by the walls of a centuries-old stone wall, and time has not left there. Its steep cobblestone alleys and orange clay roofs, its glorious castles, and the atmosphere of its musical treasures make it a special place of unheard-of magnificence, beauty, and historical wealth which will hardly be found anywhere in Europe.
One of the locations, which can be called the Pearl of the Adriatic and which has fascinated tourists for centuries, is Dubrovnik Old City. Its nickname does not come out of place, not just due to its beautiful scenic coast, but also due to the well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings of the city, which give a feel of the stories of the proud and powerful republic.
Being a history enthusiast, photography enthusiast, or just some people in search of cinematic views, this walled city will have something to offer you. Here, we will disclose five stunning places in Dubrovnik Old City which best demonstrate its eternal charm, i.e., picturesque bars on the cliff, panoramic spots, including fortresses, and the very significant historical sights.
Dubrovnik Old City is the place where history meets architecture, as well as views of the sea in the most breathtaking way.
1. The City Walls: A Walk Above Centuries of History
The stroll during a visit to the Dubrovnik Old City cannot be complete without a walk on its legendary city walls that encircle the historic heart of the city and present some of the most spectacular views in any given direction. These medieval fortifications were extensively laid out in a period spanning 1the 2nd through the 17th centuries and stand semi-circularly across a distance of 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) across the city as a line of defense against invaders. They are a source of pride and testimony to architecture today.
As you walk on the high road, you are still blessed with the views of the panorama of the Adriatic, the orange-tiled roofs, and the streets’ lanes. Here you will get a chance to see such celebrities as the Fort Lovrijenac, St. John’s Fortress, and small ports where merchant ships could dock.
Photography tip: the walls are prettiest at dawn with early mornings bathing everything in the golden light (of course, during the high season, there are crowds) or, slightly less than an hour before sunset, making everything sky and sea pink and blue.
Traveler Tip: Comfortable shoes, water (summer may have overheating problems), take 1.5 hrs. to 2 hours to complete the full circuit.
Be it the catching of a postcard-worthy scenery or just bathing in the history under your feet, the walls of the city will provide one of the most memorable experiences in the Dubrovnik Old City.
2. Stradun: The Heartbeat of Dubrovnik Old City
The in between of Dubrovnik Old City is the hub of all the activity and a social epicenter, the street called Stradun. Stradun is made of shiny limestone, smoothed out by the steps of centuries, and goes down, beginning at the Pile Gate to the Old Port, and is filled with these cute shops, cozy cafes, and buildings that are a few centuries old.
Even though it is rather unpretentious in size, Stradun has its history and character. On the path, you will find such prominent landmarks as:
- Fountain of Onofrio, a drinking fountain in the 15th century, and a popular meeting place
- Column of Orlando– Symbol of the independence of Dubrovnik
- Sponza Palace – a beautiful masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, which used to be a customs house
Stradun also presents the best people-watching spot, street shows, and absorption of the ambiance. The city awakens with its culture and charm during the day or at night.
Best pictures: Take the full shot of the street at early morning when no one is around, or take the picture of lights in shops and church steeples glowing at night to get a romantic frame for a film.
Did you know? Stradun used to be a sea channel, dividing two sections of the city (it was later filled up and changed to the famous promenade we are all familiar with today).
As you walk, Stradun opens up a fresh revelation of life in the Old City of Dubrovnik- not only its past but also its present.
3. Lovrijenac Fortress: The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik
Located on a 37-meter-high cliff outside the western walls of Dubrovnik Old City, Lovrijenac Fortress (Also referred to as St. Lawrence Fortress) commands one of the most dramatic panoramas of the Adriatic coast. The fortress, which is often referred to as the Gibraltar of Dubrovnik, was actually a line of great defense protecting the city against maritime invasion the Venice.
Lovrijenac was built at the beginning of the 11th century and, besides being an example of the ideal construction, it is also the symbol of the long-term independent life of the city of Dubrovnik. Due to the renovation, the large stone walls and splashy battlements are available to anyone who wants to touch the history of the castle and admire the invaluable panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Interesting fun fact- watchers of television: Lovrijenac has been featured in Game of Thrones as the Red Keep in King’s Landing. It is one of the attractions that cannot be missed by people who view the series or people who desire to take photographs.
Best photo tip: To get it all in shot, step onto the city walls opposite Lovrijenac and get the sparkling sea behind it. The combination of contrast and colour is created with early evening light.
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4. Rector’s Palace: A Glimpse Into Dubrovnik’s Regal Past
Enter the political Pulse of the old Republic when you experience the grace of Rector’s Palace, which is one of the most architecturally splendid buildings in the Dubrovnik Old City. The palace was initially constructed in the 15th century and was the seat of the Rector, the elected head of the Republic of Ragusa, but was limited in its tenure to discourage corruption and to balance the power.
It is a magnificent building, which is a good blend of all Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, because of several rebuildings due to fire accidents and earthquakes. Now the palace serves as a part of the Cultural History Museum and displays the noble background of Dubrovnik using period rooms, portraits, antique furniture, and historical material.
Must-see features:
- The grand yard has the mansard columns and arches
- Study of the Rector and Council chamber
- Period guns, armorial bearings, and exquisitely retouched apartments
Photo tip: The best time to visit the palace is in the morning when it is quiet and sunlight breaks in through courtyard doors- the best architectural effect!
5. Buža Bar: A Cliffside Escape With Unbeatable Views
On top of being one of the most prominent places in Dubrovnik Old City, a little, hardly noticeable hole in the city wall is also a hidden treasure. Buza Bar is an amazing place to spend your time. Being on the very brink of the cliffs, it is an open-air bar offering a panoramic, unrestricted view of the Adriatic Sea; therefore, to have a cool drink there with the sun on the horizon is the best thing one can do.
No official indication other than follow the wall until you come into a door that reads, The Cold Drinks with the Most Beautiful View. You know you are in the right place after that.
The reason why it is special:
- You really may sit down on cliff-cut stone ledges
- Ideal place to take sunset pictures, and a relaxed atmosphere
- James, an adventurous local and tourist, even takes a leap of faith off the rocks
Photo hint: Don’t miss the golden glow over the sea by arriving 30-45 minutes before sunset, so you may find a good place and shoot it.
Local tip: It is cash only and cash only, and prepare to see a no-frills, rustic experience; the view is the one that is luxurious.
Conclusion: Discover the Magic of Dubrovnik Old City for Yourself
The Dubrovnik Old City has it all, from the castle walls and sunny boardwalks to secluded cliff bars, history, and nature are intertwined with each other at every corner. These 5 beautiful locations are truly only a taste of what makes this walled marvel the Pearl of the Adriatic, as each of them has a story to tell, amazing landscapes, and a fascinating culture hundreds of years in the making.
It does not matter why you came to see this city, the scenery of Dubrovnik Old City, the buildings, or the coastal feeling, they are guaranteed to last you a lifetime.
Prepare your trip, take your camera, and enjoy the classical Dubrovnik Old City, which will make you short of breath.
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FAQs About Visiting Dubrovnik Old City
Q1. Which is the best season to visit Dubrovnik Old City?
It should preferably be in the months of May to June or September to October because the weather is nice and people are not as heavy in number.
Q2. Is the Dubrovnik City Wall walk worth it?
Absolutely! It is one of the best things in the city that has the most unsurpassable views of the sea and the old town.
Q3. Can one visit the Dubrovnik Old City in a day?
Yes, at least one to two full days should be considered in case you like to enjoy its history and beauty.
