Exploring Croatia: Day 1 in Dubrovnik

Ella McIntyre
Jul 29
6 min read

Updated: Sep 13

For our first day in Dubrovnik, we focused on the more historical side on the city, seeing the most important sights and exploring the nearby beaches. Using our City Pass we aimed to visit a couple museums and take many photos from the City Walls. Starting our day early, I had a rigid itinerary of where we were going and what we were doing, but not all things went to plan.

None-the-less, during this day we managed to explore thoroughly the heart of the city and Old Town, while leaving time to relax by the beach.

Let us dive into the wonders of Dubrovnik.

The Old Town

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its well-preserved medieval walls and buildings tell stories of the past. Walking through the narrow streets, you can see the influence of various cultures that have shaped the city.

Our first stop was one of the most famous landmarks: the City Walls. These walls stretch for about 1.2 miles and offer stunning views of the sea and the city. You can walk along the top of the walls, taking in the sights and sounds of Dubrovnik.

Another must-see is the Rector's Palace, which was once the seat of government. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the history of the city. The architecture is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, making it a feast for the eyes.

High angle view of the City Walls of Dubrovnik

We brought the Dubrvonik pass priced at €40 for the day. This includes access to 12 of the sites and musums in the city including the City Walls and Rectors Palace, as well as free public transportation on the day.

We started the walk at Pile Gate, it's reccommended to go earlier on to avoid the extreme midday heat. Bring water and sunglasses too as the walk is rather taxing in the peak of summer.

To complete the perimeter of the walls should take around 1.5- 2 hours for the average tourists with stops to take pictures and admire the views.

Crowd of people in summer attire walking toward a historic stone fortress under a clear blue sky. Flags fly atop the structure. — Pile Gate (above) Maritime Museum (below)

With the multiplicity of fortresses Croatia has to offer, we began with fort St John inside the walls, by the Old Port. The upper floors house the Maritime Museum and the lower floors contain the city's aquarium.

With the Dubrovnik Pass you may enter the museum without leaving your walls walking route- it's all part of the same fortification complex.

Be sure to look out for signs pointing to the aquarium. Beware, due to the different levels of the city walls and the compactness of buildings, following a map here is a myth.

After the museum we continued to explore Dubrovnik Cathedral and Rector's Palace.

Dubrovnik's Cathedral of the Assumption looks as if it has always been standing, but it's actually the city's third one on this location. King Richard the Lionheart is supposed to have helped pay for it after being shipwrecked near Lokrum in 1192. The one you see today was built in the 18th century after the old one was destroyed in a devastating earthquake in 1667.

Step inside and you’ll find beautiful art, including a Titian painting, and a quiet sense of history that’s weathered centuries of change by the Adriatic sea.

Continuing on to Rector's Palace, which housed the city's government and Rector's residence; the one-month-per-term elected mayor meant to prevent him or her from becoming too rotten. The 15th-century palace has a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, thanks to a succession of explosions and re-buildings along the way.

Nowadays, it's a museum full of portraits, coats of arms, and period furniture, but strolling through its courtyards and arches really feels like entering into the heartbeat of the old Republic.

The Stradun

People stroll down a historic cobblestone street with stone buildings under a clear blue sky. Street cafes and awnings line the path. — Daytime in The Stradun

The Stradun is the main street of Dubrovnik, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is the perfect place to soak in the local atmosphere. As you stroll down the Stradun, you will notice the beautiful limestone pavement that shines under the sun.

Stop by one of the cafes for a cup of coffee or a refreshing drink. The people-watching here is fantastic. You can see locals and tourists alike enjoying the vibrant energy of the city.

In the evening, the Stradun transforms into a lively hub. Street performers often entertain visitors, adding to the charm of the area.

People walk in a historic square at dusk. Illuminated buildings, stained glass, and statues create a lively atmosphere against a deep blue sky. — The Stradun during the busy evening

The Forts

Dubrovnik is home to several forts that played a crucial role in its defense. Our next stop was Fort Lovrijenac, also known as St. Lawrence Fortress, is one of the most impressive. Perched on a cliff, it offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Visiting the fort is like stepping into a movie set. The views are breathtaking, and you can almost hear the echoes of history. It was truly magnificent.

By this point in the day it was 1pm, the heat was hitting and we had climbed countless stairs to access the breathtaking views. My advice would be BRING A FAN and water especially. Be prepared no matter what your level of fitness for achy legs after climbing up to Fort Lovrijenac.

Another notable fort is Fort Bokar, which is part of the city walls. It was built to protect the city from naval attacks. Exploring these forts gives you a deeper understanding of Dubrovnik's strategic importance throughout history.

The Beaches

Pebble beach under a clear blue sky with sunbathers and green-striped umbrellas. People swim in the sea, enjoying a sunny day. — Lapad Beach

No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without spending some time at the beach, and we needed a well deserved beach break. The city boasts several beautiful beaches, each with its own charm. Banje Beach is one of the most popular, located just a short walk from the Old Town.

Here, you can relax on the pebbly shore, swim in the clear waters, or enjoy a drink at the beach bar. The views of the Old Town from the beach are stunning, especially at sunset.

For a quieter experience, head to Lapad Beach. This beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It is perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind.

The Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean and Central European flavors. In Dubrovnik, you can find a variety of dishes that reflect the local ingredients and traditions.

Start your culinary journey with seafood with countless restuarants along hte seafront and surrounding the beaches. The Adriatic Sea provides fresh fish and shellfish that are a staple in many local restaurants. Try the grilled fish or the famous black risotto made with cuttlefish ink.

Don’t forget to sample Peka, a traditional dish cooked under a bell-like lid. It usually consists of meat, vegetables, and herbs, slow-cooked to perfection.

For dessert, indulge in Rafioli, a sweet pastry filled with cheese and nuts. Pair it with a glass of local wine for a complete experience.

The Culture

Dubrovnik is rich in culture and traditions. Throughout the year, the city hosts various festivals that celebrate its heritage. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is one of the most famous. It features music, theater, and dance performances in stunning outdoor settings.

Another important event is the Feast of St. Blaise, the city’s patron saint. This festival includes a procession through the streets, traditional music, and local delicacies. Participating in these events gives you a unique insight into the local culture.

The Nightlife

Crowded nightclub with green lights and red grid patterns. DJ playing on stage. Text on display reads "Alerg." Energetic party atmosphere.

As the sun sets, Dubrovnik comes alive with nightlife. The Old Town offers a variety of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a drink and dance the night away.

Buza Bar is a popular spot located on the cliffs outside the city walls. It offers stunning views of the sea and a relaxed atmosphere. You can sip a cocktail while watching the sunset, creating a magical experience. However this spot can get very busy and with no reservations it is almost impossible to get a seat, its luck of the draw.

Crowded nightclub scene with people dancing under pink lights. A sign reads "Ferreck Dawn" in the background, creating an energetic vibe.

For those looking for a more energetic vibe like we were, head to Club Revelin. Housed in a 16th-century fortress and named one of the top 50 clubs in Europe. This club features local and international DJs, making it a hotspot for party-goers with tickets priced at around €35 for entry.

We found this club to be a little lack-lustre despite its good reviews. Coming from a London girl, the crowds in here were rather judgey and full of pretentious as opposed to the more free flowing and loud rambunctious British clubbing vibe which surpasses this. The DJ's played the same sounding beats on repeat with the same drops you could expect at any budget DJ set. A tequila shot and a bottle of water cost ~€18, my advice is pre-drink on the cheap and cheerful local alcohol they sell in supermarkets and kiosks and try to have a good time despite your bank and your sense of self withering once you enter here. But at least you can say you went clubbing in a fortress!