Dubrovnik: What to see, what to taste?
Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and often considered to be primarily cultural destination, offering a variety of historic monuments as well as events and festivals. But in reality the city offers much more and whether you’re looking for active or more relaxed holiday, you’ll certainly find something for yourself and see why is Dubrovnik one of the best known and most visited towns in Croatia.
You’ll probably need a few days to check all the attractions in the area. Start at Pile Gate, hang out on Stradun and explore landmarks like Orlando’s Column and Onofrio’s Fountains. Move on the Walls of Dubrovnik that have been protecting the city for centuries. Walk these two kilometers and you’ll get the best first impression of the town by looking down at its architecture, small streets, gardens and terraces.
Spend some time at the monuments like the Franciscan Monastery, St.Blaise Church, Dubrovnik Cathedral and numerous museums. Wander around and lose yourself in the many alleyways of old town. Be sure to view the city from the Dubrovnik Cable Car: it’s simply fascinating!
Once you’re done with all those main attractions, you should find some time to enjoy its lovely pebbly beaches and visit tiny islands in the vicinity. First of all, Lokrum, a protected natural reserve and a monument of a landscape architecture.
If you consider yourself a sea lover, be sure to view the city from the sea. High-rising defensive walls, its towers and forts look even more impressive when seen from the sea. One of the most popular ways to experience that is sea kayaking.
Plan a comfortable day trip from Dubrovnik and catch a catamaran to Mljet National Park. Mljet is an island that time forgot. No grand harbour towns or seaside resorts, but you’ll fall in love with the nature and its two interconnected turquoise saltwater lakes surrounded by dense pine forests.
When it comes to food, you’ll certainly want to try some traditional specialties with local ingredients, like black risotto, pasticada (a stewed beef dish in a special sauce), “sporki makaruli” (“dirty macaroni”) or a delicious seafood platter. Don’t forget to try the best oysters in Europe!
Visit the nearby Konavle region and enjoy its lush olive groves, vineyards and sleepy rural villages. Several authentic agrotourism eateries serve meals prepared from their own farm produce, including wine. Now that we mention wine, be sure to visit Peljesac, a paradise for wine lovers.
From inland mountains and valleys to its long shores, this most southern region of Croatia will never cease to amaze you with its unspoilt nature, local dishes and exquisite world-famous wines like dingac and postup.
Enjoy everything you can without worries about staying fit, because there’s plenty of hiking and biking routes around Dubrovnik attracting more and more people by the day. They are excellent for training prior to or relaxation after the EARTH, SEA & FIRE triathlon!
