Miss.tiff.travels

Where is it?

Dubrovnik is a city in southern Croatia often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ as it is regarded of one of the most picturesque cities on the Dalmatian Coast. Dubrovnik is a 3 hour flight from Manchester, with flights leaving most days.

When to go?

It is definitely worth visiting Dubrovnik during the summer months with lots of sunshine to be found in this gem. However the climate here is much milder than some of the main tourist hotspots in Europe, so you won’t be disappointed between April-October, and if unlike me you are free to choose when you travel (#teacherlife) then I would advise travelling in September or October when the weather is still lovely, but many of the cruise ships have left port. This is one of the few places that I have travelled to where this made a considerable impact to our time, with hundreds of people flooding into the walled city every other day.  This also comes with the added bonus of cheaper prices for all you bargain hunters out there.

Where to stay?

For me Dubrovnik is a fantastic Airbnb type of place, with so many lovely apartments so close to the centre. This gives you so much freedom, over your day and your budget. You have the freedom to cook – or not cook if you prefer, after all you are on holiday, but you can still be close to the action.

There are a number of amazing 4 and 5 star hotels all along the coast, with the views of your dreams and the all-important pool. So this comes down to a matter of taste, do you want the all-inclusive experience? Or a quiet retreat? Dubrovnik has it all. However a word of caution, pools are limited in this beautiful spot and so can come at a premium. There are a few local beach spots but in the middle of summer this may also be where you find the tourists…

Things to do?

Dubrovnik is a fantastic and diverse holiday destinations, with different options for every type of vacation. We visited Dubrovnik straight after the end of term in the summer for a week of peace, quiet and relaxation. But if you are looking for a little more adventure, Dubrovnik is located in an amazing spot to head up to Cavtat, Hvar, Mostar, Montenegro, Kravice Waterfalls or split, so there is definitely a lot to keep everyone happy.

Our golden rule when travelling – ‘If you are happy doing, and I am happy watching, then we are all happy.’ And I have to say this rule has been called on more than once over the years, balancing our different interests and bravery levels! Mick is the most adventurous of us all, though I can often be persuaded – but if there are heights, lifts or cable cars involved my mum might prefer to find herself a café to await our return…so here goes…

1. Take a stroll around the old town.

This is a fantastic way to get a feel for the city and this UNESCO world heritage site, through exploring the small streets of the old town, and the finding the gems hidden within this walled city. The reconstruction of the city is remarkable, completed after the civil war in the 90’s and is now a traffic free zone, making it the perfect place to walk through to the harbour and pick up an ice cream, or to just sit and people watch (one of my favourite holiday past-times) If you are interested to know more about the history and culture as well as the key landmarks there are a number of walking tours offered too.

2. Walk the city walls

For the braver amongst you, why not head up and take a walk around the walls of the city. I would recommend starting early in the day or in the cooler evening as there is no shade along the top of the wall and the white stone reflects the heat more strongly than down at ground level. But if you do make it up the viewpoint is incredible and the photos are worth it, especially for those Game of thrones fan!

3. Take a ride in a cable car

If you really fancy a change of perspective, why not take a ride in a cable car, or take a hike if you are feeling energetic, it is quite steep so make sure you have those comfortable shoes ready. From the top you will be able to enjoy a drink or a meal in the restaurant, or sit and enjoy a magical sunset over the Adriatic.

4. Head to the beach!

 Now the beaches can get very busy, so get organised. There are quite a few beach options available, but be mindful that they are not all sandy beaches…but the views are incredible jus the same. The most popular beach is the Banje Beach located in the heart of Dubrovnik. But if you are prepared to walk or drive just a little bit further there are plenty of spots to choose from. For us our favourite spot was Belleview beach, a 20 minute walk from the town centre. This is a spot you need to know about to find on the first day, as you follow the road down past the side of the Hotel Rixos then down a set of stone steps to find this beautiful spot in Miramare Bay. There a no public toilets on the beach, but there is a small café. I would recommend taking a packed lunch though as prices can add up, and if you feel that spending the day at the beach is fast paced enough for you. Then you are in the perfect spot to watch the locals’ cliff jumping, working their way higher and high up the cliff side.

It was clear to see why this is becoming such a must see on everyone’s Bucket list and is a city that I won’t forget in a hurry. This was a very special, relaxing week full of good food, days at the beach and beautiful scenery.

Is Dubrovnik on your Bucket list?