Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic

Dubrovnik, famously known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a city of unparalleled beauty and history located about 230 kilometers south of Split. Enclosed by towering medieval walls, its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living museum of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Strolling through its narrow marble streets feels like stepping back in time, with iconic landmarks such as the Stradun, Rector’s Palace, and the grand Sponza Palace awaiting exploration. Dubrovnik’s seaside location, with its stunning views of the Adriatic, adds an extra layer of allure to this magical city.

For pop culture enthusiasts, Dubrovnik has gained global fame as a filming location for the hit TV series Game of Thrones. Fans will instantly recognize the city as the setting for King’s Landing, offering a unique blend of fiction and history to explore.

What to Do or See

Walk along the City Walls, which offer panoramic views of the Old Town and the glistening Adriatic Sea. The walls, stretching nearly 2 kilometers, are among the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. Inside the Old Town, visit the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of the oldest working pharmacies in Europe, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral, which houses an impressive treasury of religious artifacts.

For a unique perspective, take the Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srđ, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the city and surrounding islands. Adventurous visitors can also kayak around the city walls or visit the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene escape just a short ferry ride away. For history enthusiasts, the Rector’s Palace and the War Photo Limited gallery provide deep insights into Dubrovnik’s storied past.

How to Get to Dubrovnik

From Split, Dubrovnik can be reached in about 3 to 4 hours by car or bus, with the journey offering breathtaking coastal views. While public buses run regularly, guided tours provide added convenience, often including stops at scenic viewpoints along the way. For those looking for a more leisurely trip, ferries and catamarans also connect Split to Dubrovnik during the summer months, offering a scenic route through the Adriatic.