Dubrovnik best of Croatia
We’re driving along the coast of Dalmatia after reaching Croatia from Slovenia en-route to a longer trip to Greece. Then, as we approach Dubrovnik and the best of Croatia, our journey comes to a sudden end.
Unfortunately for us, a local driver sees an opportunity, overtaking our van, before suddenly slamming on his brakes. A trick you never expect to happen becoming reality.
So, we don’t arrive at our campsite for the few nights exploring Dubrovnik, instead a hotel beckons. Here we spend the rest of our trip in Dubrovnik before catching our flight home.
Campsites options for Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a busy destination, with roads around the perimeter of town being narrow and hectic.
With this in mind, the options for campsites on the outskirts seem a good idea, although there is a campsite in Dubrovnik itself. Before the accident we were going to Camping Kate – a small site within a boat or bus ride away from the centre.
Later, on the way to the airport we pass the site and think it looks a great little place to stay. It’s only a few miles away on the airport side and reviews at the time are good.
Around the corner from our hotel is Camping Solitudo which is pricey, yet convenient. It’s the only campsite in Dubrovnik and a bus can be taken to the centre.
Another couple of campsites along the coast road, 10km West of Dubrovnik are Camping Pod Maslinom and Camping Peca. These sites are opposite each other with a bus stop close by for transport into Dubrovnik. We also drove by these sites and both are convenient options.
Visiting Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik is a UNESCO site and when we approach its mighty gleaming stone walls, we can see why. Not only is it a shimmering display of stone architecture but its setting beside the crystal waters of the Adriatic is simply splendid.
There are a few entrance routes into the town within a town, but we choose Pile Gate. Built in the 1537, it’s imposing drawbridge and winding slope towards the Main Street is iconic.
The walls of Dubrovnik surround its exterior and walking them is a superb way to see this vibrant destination from above.
However, you have to pay but it’s worth it as we take to the stone stairs leading up to fine views across the famous red tiled roofs. We move slowly around the walls, taking in the vista and soaking up the ambience.
Steep stairways and narrow alleyways
Dubrovnik is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and steep stairways of stone leading within the town walls. Each layer brings a different aspect, another alleyway and numerous places to sit, drink and eat.
This idyllic criss-cross of stone buildings, independent shops and beautiful architecture makes exploring exciting.
Every corner brings another maze, more streets and the gaze of blue peeping through gateways towards the sea.
A Shimmering Harbour
Just off the Main Street is the Rector’s Palace – a beautiful building in Gothic Renaissance design dating from the 16th Century. It’s impressive carvings of stone archways leave a vivid impression.
Beyond through another stone gate the shimmering harbour comes into view. Here, small boats bring day-trippers whilst people relax in shady corners. The sea is stunningly beautiful and there are some people taking to the water for a dip.
At the end of Stradun, the Main Street, is one of the big attractions of Dubrovnik, the Onofrio Fountain. It was built to bring water from a spring about 7 miles away and still offers water from its stone carvings.
Daytime is extremely busy everywhere we go. Not only do cruise ships dock, but coach trips arrive from various resorts, with visitors filling the streets. However, at night, we see a different side to Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik by night
As the historic centre lights up under the starry sky, Dubrovnik by night seems to take on a whole new persona. Not only is it beautiful but so much quieter. The day-trippers are gone and restaurants seem so much more serene.
We spend the night exploring, finding quieter corners and intimate squares where musicians play to anyone who’ll spare a moment to listen.
Between day and night, we catch the bus back to our hotel. There are regular buses which are reasonable and easy to find.
Fort Lovrijenac
Back outside the walls, we venture towards Fort Lovrijenac, built on a 37m high rocky outcrop which looks back towards the walls of Dubrovnik.
Inside is cool with a few empty rooms leading to open terraces with fine views across the historic town. The sea below is beautiful – blue, clear and tempting. Various private functions as well as events are held here otherwise, you can visit and enjoy the views surrounding it’s towers and terraces.
