Croatia Series: Guide to Dubrovnik

The old city of Dubrovnik is a city of beautiful architecture, history and cats. Lots and lots of cats.

When deciding where to stay in Dubrovnik we decided to stay in the heart of the old city as everywhere was walkable from within the city. Here are some things you need to know about visiting Dubrovnik.

COVID Restrictions (as of April 2021)
In Dubrovnik we had the most strict COVID regulations out of all of the other regions in Croatia. At the time restaurants were closed for dine in and it was take out only, closing at 10PM. Non-essential businesses were closed and few restaurants were open. There was no mandatory mask rule in open air but you had to put a mask on in any indoor area. Public transportation was available however as we had a rental car we did not use it.
PCR TEST – We were required to take a PCR test 48 hours prior to the arrival of the Dubrovnik airport or take the PCR test when you arrive and quarantine until you get the results. They did indeed check the PCR test at the Dubrovnik border control looking for my name, the date of my test and the “NEGATIVE” result.

Parking
We stayed in Dubrovnik the first night and came back for two nights at the end of our eight day trip. The first night we parked right at the entrance of the Old City at the north wall at Parking Iza Grada. Big mistake!! For less than 24 hours, we paid a total of 160 HRK which is over 21 euros! And we were considered ‘lucky’ because it was off season. The street parking you see that is numbered is for residents only and you will be fined so be careful! The second time we came around at the end of our trip, I googled a free parking and were able to dropped off our friends and all of our luggage at the Pile Gate, then went to park at the Supermarket Maxi Konzum which was a 18 minute walk back to the Old City entrance.

Things To Do in Dubrovnik

The Old City Wall – a must!
There are several entrance points to the Dubrovnik Wall – one of the main ones being right when you enter at the Pile Gate. They are very visible and easily accessible in over four areas of the wall. The Dubrovnik wall is an extremely well preserved 14th century wall that surrounds the whole old city. Extending over approximately 1,940 meters, this fortification has withstood several sieges over the span of five centuries. The limestone creation was actually considered one of the greatest fortification in the world during that time.
Entrance Fee: Around 25 euros during high season

Lovrijenac Fortress and Dubrovnik West Harbor
FYI – You can get into the Lovrijenac Fortress by showing your Old City Wall entrance ticket.
Right outside of the Old City walls within a four minute walk. You can pass through the Dubrovnik West Harbor to get to the Lovrijenac Fortress. Both places give you an amazing view of the old city. The fortress sits on a 37 meter high rock where you can get panoramic views of the city and the nearby Lokrum Island. And you also get huge Game of Thrones vibes!

Main Square
There is a lot to see and take in at the Main Square. There is the Church of Saint Blaise where if you sit on the main steps you have a view of the Clock tower and Sponza Palace. Afterward, if you take a right you arrive to Rector’s Palace which is currently a part of the Museum of Dubrovnik. This area is a great place to grab a coffee (outside) and feel as if you are back in the 18th century.

Buza Bar
Last on my list is a gem. Following a random jetting out ‘Cold Drinks’ sign from some stone wall. We found some steep stairs that led to the most beautiful views of the sea and what could have been a very dope terrace bar. Unfortunately it was deserted and we only were left with a sign and what could have been. We went back the next morning with some grocery breakfast foods to have breakfast with a view. Here is a link to a blog that did have the opportunity preCOVID enjoy the Buza Bar atmosphere!

How did you like Dubrovnik? Where do you suggest to visit?
Next up: Split, Croatia