Dubrovnik, Croatia is one of those cities that instantly captures your imagination. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Old Town Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient town walls, Baroque streets, and iconic views of the Adriatic Sea. In the past, summers meant crowded streets, throngs of cruise ships, and long waits at restaurants. Today, travelers can enjoy this historic city with space to breathe, wander, and fully soak in its charm.
From the cable car that offers panoramic views to the quaint Franciscan Monastery tucked along cobblestone lanes, the city offers experiences for every kind of traveler. Game of Thrones fans can stroll filming locations on a walking tour, while food lovers can savor fresh Adriatic seafood at restaurants that are suddenly all but empty. There has never been a better time to experience Dubrovnik Croatia at your own pace.
A Beautiful Opportunity in Empty Streets
The streets of Old Town Dubrovnik are empty, creating a rare and magical opportunity for travelers. Al fresco dining is easy to find, and service is exceptional. Sitting with a crisp Croatian pilsner or a glass of wine while soaking in the architecture has never been more peaceful.
Normally, five or more cruise ships can pass through in a single day, making the city bustling and chaotic. Now, the old city feels like a private stage where every visitor can take their time to enjoy its beauty. This is also the perfect chance for game of thrones fans to explore filming locations with fewer crowds and capture the perfect photos.
Some of the Best Beaches in the Mediterranean
Dubrovnik’s beaches, including Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, are quieter than ever, offering sun, sea, and serenity. Banje Beach is consistently listed among the top beaches in Dubrovnik and the Mediterranean for its crystal-clear waters, cabanas, beach chairs, and attentive service. Visitors can sip Moet while watching mega yachts glide through the Adriatic coast or enjoy a cold Ožujsko beer while chatting with new friends.
Beach clubs in Dubrovnik now feel almost private, making it possible to spend the whole day beach-side and stay for sunset views. Water shoes are recommended if you plan to explore rocky stretches, but the soft sand and calm waves make Banje Beach ideal for both swimming and relaxation. Whether you lounge at the shore or take a quick swim toward Lokrum Island, the experience is unforgettable.
Restaurants to Yourself
Food and drinks have never been more enjoyable in Dubrovnik. Some of the best restaurants, which normally require reservations weeks in advance, now welcome visitors instantly. From fresh calamari and mussels to local cheeses and wines, every meal feels exclusive. A hidden cliffside bar called Buža Bar offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, and without the usual crowds, it is highly recommend to stop by for a cold beer or even cliff diving if you’re brave.
Dining in Old Town Dubrovnik is also a chance to explore small lanes and historic squares while enjoying every bite. The city feels calm, giving visitors the space to savor Croatian cuisine at a leisurely pace without the usual hustle and bustle of cruise tourism.
Exploring Beyond the Walls
Walking the town walls or taking a short cable car ride gives a fresh perspective of the city and the surrounding Adriatic coast. The views stretch from the Bay of Kotor to Lokrum Island, and each lookout point is a perfect photo opportunity. For those who want to combine history and exercise, a full walking tour of Old Town Dubrovnik offers glimpses of centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and hidden corners that many visitors miss.
Whether you explore the Franciscan Monastery, hike the city walls, or venture to nearby beaches in Dubrovnik, the area is full of surprises. Water shoes are handy for rocky beach areas, but the views and experiences along the Adriatic Sea make every step worthwhile.
Hidden Corners of Old Town Dubrovnik
While walking tours of Old Town Dubrovnik are popular, some of the most memorable experiences come from exploring off the beaten path. Narrow alleys lead to quiet squares, hidden cafés, and artisan shops tucked behind historic facades. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon small churches, fountains, and local markets that feel untouched by tourism. For game of thrones fans, these secret corners can even reveal filming locations missed by the standard tours, making the city feel like a personal playground.
Day Trips Along the Adriatic Coast
Dubrovnik Croatia is the perfect base for day trips along the Adriatic coast. A short drive or ferry ride can take you to Lokrum Island, the Bay of Kotor, or nearby coastal towns with colorful architecture and secluded beaches in Dubrovnik. Each stop offers opportunities for swimming, exploring, or simply sipping cocktails while watching the Adriatic Sea glisten. Renting water shoes and a small backpack makes it easy to explore multiple locations in a single day, turning a simple trip into a full Adriatic adventure.
Capturing Dubrovnik’s Views
Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in Dubrovnik’s landscapes and cityscape. From the elevated perspective of the cable car to the panoramic views atop the town walls, every angle highlights the terracotta rooftops, crystal waters, and surrounding islands. Sunset along Banje Beach in Dubrovnik provides perfect lighting for silhouette shots, while early mornings on the empty city streets give a rare chance to capture Old Town Dubrovnik without crowds. Bringing a camera or even a smartphone is a must, as every corner of the city offers highly recommend-worthy photo opportunities.
Sunset Strolls Along the Town Walls
One of the best ways to experience Old Town Dubrovnik is by walking the town walls at sunset. The elevated views reveal the Adriatic Sea glimmering in golden light while cruise ships drift quietly along the coast. The walls offer a perspective of both historic rooftops and modern beach clubs in Dubrovnik, giving visitors a unique contrast of old and new. With fewer crowds, these walks feel intimate and provide plenty of room to pause, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful Adriatic coast.
Experiencing Banje Beach in Dubrovnik Like a Local
Banje Beach is more than just a place to swim—it’s a hub of local culture and relaxation. Spend a morning lounging on cabanas or take a dip in the clear waters, then wander to nearby beach clubs for a fresh seafood lunch with a view. The beach is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy the Adriatic Sea without the usual tourist crush. Pair your day with water shoes for exploring rocky spots and you’ll discover hidden inlets and small, serene sections of beach that feel private.
Exploring Nearby Islands and Coastal Gems
A short boat ride from Dubrovnik opens up an entirely new side of the Adriatic coast. Lokrum Island, just minutes from the old city, offers walking tours through lush gardens, secluded beaches, and historic ruins. Further along the coast, the Bay of Kotor provides stunning cliffside views, quaint coastal towns, and opportunities for kayaking or sailing. These day trips highlight the diversity of Dubrovnik Croatia, blending relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty in a way that complements time spent exploring the city itself.
Dining with a View on the Adriatic Coast
One of the highlights of Dubrovnik Croatia is enjoying food and drinks with an incredible view. Restaurants along the Adriatic coast, particularly near Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, offer terraces overlooking the sparkling water and town walls. Fresh seafood, local wines, and classic Croatian dishes taste even better when paired with panoramic vistas. Whether you choose a casual beach club lunch or a formal dinner in Old Town Dubrovnik, every meal feels elevated by the surroundings.
Game of Thrones Tours Without Crowds
Fans of Game of Thrones will appreciate exploring Old Town Dubrovnik at their own pace. With fewer tourists, walking tours of filming locations feel intimate and immersive. You can wander the city walls, alleys, and plazas while imagining the scenes from the show, capturing photos without the usual crowd interference. Scott & Thomas highly recommend this timing, as the quieter streets make it easier to relive your favorite moments from the series.
Sunset and Nighttime Views from the Cable Car
Taking the Dubrovnik cable car during sunset or nighttime offers a spectacular perspective of the city and the Adriatic Sea. From above, the terracotta rooftops of Old Town Dubrovnik glow against the water, while cruise ships appear as tiny lights moving along the coast. It’s a highly recommend experience for photographers and romantics alike. Pairing a cable car ride with an evening stroll along the town walls or a stop at Banje Beach creates an unforgettable view of the Adriatic coast.
Use Miles for More Than Flights
Frequent flyer miles aren’t just for booking flights. Many airline loyalty programs allow you to redeem miles for hotel stays, car rentals, or even gift cards. This flexibility makes it easier to plan a complete trip using miles instead of cash. Exploring these options can help you stretch the value of your rewards program further.
Combine Miles with Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Travel rewards credit cards are a great way to earn frequent flyer miles faster. By using a branded airline credit card or a flexible card like Chase Ultimate Rewards, you can earn miles on everyday purchases. Pairing these cards with airline loyalty programs multiplies your earning potential. Over time, this strategy can turn small purchases into free flights or upgrades.
Track Partner Airlines for Bigger Trips
Partner airlines are a key part of maximizing frequent flyer miles. Earning miles with one airline can often be redeemed on partner airlines, giving access to routes you might not otherwise fly. This is especially helpful for international travel or booking flights across multiple major airlines. Knowing which partner airlines offer the best value can make your rewards program far more useful.
Let’s Go
Croatia is a compact wonderland with clear waters, stunning views, and affordable prices. The empty streets and restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy everything at your own pace. Walk the town walls, sip a cocktail at Banje Beach, or take a game of thrones tour to relive your favorite scenes. Take a day trip to explore Lokrum Island or the Bay of Kotor, then return for a sunset along the Adriatic coast.
Scott & Thomas can help craft a personalized Croatia getaway, from booking private walking tours and cable car rides to reserving the best seats at beach clubs and restaurants. With their guidance, you can discover Dubrovnik Croatia like a local, making the most of both the city and its beaches.
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