Dubrovnik, a Croatian city in southern Dalmatia, is nicknamed the "Pearl of the Adriatic". This fortified city stands like a heritage jewel on the translucent waters of the Adriatic. It is one of Croatia's most popular destinations, attracting travellers who love history, beautiful stonework and breathtaking nature. Between the sea and the mountains at the back, a stay here is also an opportunity to enjoy its formidable natural environment. Have you decided to take a 2 or 3-day city trip to Dubrovnik ? Here's a program of visits that promises to blow your mind!
Day 1: Ramparts, Stradun, Lapad district, Lazareti
Morning: Dubrovnik city walls and Stradun
Dubrovnik's ramparts, whose construction began in the 10th century, are among the best preserved in Europe. They almost completely encircle the old town. A walk along the ramparts is an opportunity to see them in great detail, with walls up to 6 m thick. The walk is about 2 km long. We recommend opting for a guided tour, which you can book right here: you'll discover the history of the city and the defensive forts of the Minčeta Tower, Fort Bokar, Fortress Revelin and Fort Saint-Jean.
Once the tour is over, head for the Stradun, the city's main thoroughfare. This is where locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling through the stores, observing the facades and stopping for a drink. There are many gourmet addresses in the vicinity. At lunchtime, you can try ston oysters or a fish dish!
Afternoon: Lapad district, between beaches, monuments and parks
Just 5 km from Dubrovnik, one of Croatia's 20 must-visit cities, the Lapad district is the ideal seaside destination. Here you'll find numerous hotel complexes, as well as historic buildings such as Petar Sorkočević's Renaissance villa and the churches of St. Michael and Virgin Mary. The beaches in this part of town are very pleasant, such as Uvala Lapad, with its pebble beaches and turquoise waters. After a swim, one of the 10 must-do activities in Dubrovnik in autumn, spring and summer, head for Velika Forest Park and Mala Petka for a walk through the pine woods.
Evening: Le Lazareti, restaurant and cultural highlight
As the evening draws in, travelers can consult the program at Le Lazareti. This complex of buildings dating back to the 17th century is now a cultural center with restaurants, DJ parties and film screenings.
Day 2: Old town monuments, Mont Srđ, kayak trip
Morning: Assumption Cathedral, Dominican monastery, Rector's Palace
After a coffee on the Stradun, we head for Assumption Cathedral to see its magnificent Baroque architecture. Then on to the Dominican monastery, with a visit to its courtyard, sacristy and cloister, and on to the museum of sacred art, which exhibits a collection of ancient works. It all depends on your own pace, but if you've got time to spare, the Rector's Palace, with its magnificent Gothic and Renaissance styles, is a must. The monument is sublime with its apartments decorated with portraits and antique furniture.
Afternoon: Mont Srđ and a walk on the water in front of the walled city
During a getaway to Dubrovnik, Europe's top 10 destination for a weekend with friends, you'll inevitably want to make your way to the top of Mont Srđ to enjoy the view. This is where a choice has to be made: either take the cable car, or make the ascent on foot, provided you have good shoes. Whichever option you choose, once you're at the top, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik, the sea, the island of Lokrum and even neighbouring Bosnia-Herzegovina. On site, the Imperial Fort recounts the history of the sad Balkan War. We hope the energy is there, because a great experience awaits visitors at the end of the day. After a picnic lunch, we set off from Pile Bay for a kayak trip around the island of Lokrum. A great opportunity to admire the island from all angles, to stop off at the caves, to watch the sun set, giving magnificent colors to the islands in the distance, and to keep your eyes on Dubrovnik and its ramparts.
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Evening: A drink in a tavern before going to bed
It's been an intense day. There's no better way to relax than in a tavern in Dubrovnik's old town. For wine lovers, it's time to try one of Croatia's excellent wines.
Day 3: Fort Lovrijenac, port and beach
Morning: Fort Lovrijenac
We start the morning with a visit to a monument that will not leave Games of Thrones fans indifferent: Fort Lovrijenac, one of Dubrovnik's 13 must-sees, built in the 11th century and used as the setting for King's Landing in the world-famous series. For fans of the series, we recommend booking this guided tour, which will take you deep into the world of Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik : you'll learn lots of fascinating anecdotes and even get a photo on the official Iron Throne.
The fort houses ammunition stones and cannons, and it's not uncommon to come across cats taking refuge here. The monument also boasts fine views of Dubrovnik's ramparts and the Bay of Pile. We then head for the Old Port on the opposite shore, where lunch is accompanied by the comings and goings of the boats.
Afternoon: Farniente on the beach before departure
What better way to end your stay in Dubrovnik, one of the top 10 sun destinations for a long weekend, than by relaxing on the beach? Close to the Old Port and the old town, Banje beach is often listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches. It's easy to see why, once you've set foot on the pebbles. The water is emerald-coloured, and the views of Dubrovnik's historic center and theisland of Lokrum are superb. On sunny days, you can rent a deckchair, swim and enjoy water sports, or explore the island of Lokrum on this boat excursion which also includes diving at St. Jacobs beach and Betina cave!
Where to stay in Dubrovnik for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Dubrovnik, one of the 5 European cities where you can spend a cheap weekend with friends, is one of the most popular destinations for travelers from all over the world. Stay in the historic heart of Dubrovnik for an authentic experience, or in the Lapad district or the Bay of Gruž for the closest you can get to the sea. Choose from this selection of 3 hotels in Dubrovnik.
- Petka Hill Apartments, 200m from the beach
Featuring a garden, Petka Hill Apartments is located in Dubrovnik, 2 km from Copacabana Beach, 2.7 km from Bellevue Beach and 4.2 km from Orlando Column. This 4-star apartment offers garden views and is 200 meters from Lapad Bay beach. Click here to book your stay!
- Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, intramuros
Stay in one of 8 rooms in the former villa of a noble family. However, the decor has been updated and modernized, while remaining elegant. The establishment features a restaurant with a terrace for dining and a lovely view. There's also a wellness center and massage salon to soothe aching muscles after a day's sightseeing. Click here to book your stay in just a few clicks!
- Edi's Sea View, an ideal location
This establishment is a real favorite, with its modestly sized but perfectly comfortable rooms go here to book your stay! Some of them offer a sea view. In fact, you're only a few meters away from the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. The other advantage is that the old town is just a few meters away. All amenities are nearby, and there's even a pleasant little garden in the hotel.
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Find out more about the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik over a 2 or 3-day weekend:
