Why visit Dubrovnik in 2023 /

Dubrovnik is always a good idea, but it doesn’t hurt to remind you why it should be on your bucket list (again).

And with some changes starting January 1, it’s also closer and more accessible than ever. Now that Croatia is part of Schengen, more travelers will be able to arrive without additional visas, and the brand new Euro will simplify the overall experience in Croatia for both business and leisure travellers. The grand opening of the Pelješac Bridge in the summer of 2022 finally connected all Croatian areas into one whole, meaning that car travelers could finally reach Dubrovnik from central Dalmatia or Zagreb without crossing the border. And notwithstanding mentioning, Dubrovnik, as it always has been, is safe to travel – ideal for all types of visits, from solo travelers and friends traveling together to couples and families.

So what are our recommendations?

Take a scenic drive across the Pelješac Bridge

Regardless of whether you fly into Dubrovnik or choose to drive, don’t miss your chance to get to Pelješac and enjoy a panoramic view of the Pelješac Bridge over the blue Adriatic Sea. Make a stop at the designated area and enjoy the great view. For a touch of luxury, book a wine tasting at the Rizman winery overlooking the bridge and the Adriatic archipelago and savor the moment with a glass of white, red or bubbly.

Swim at one of the world’s best beaches according to Conde Nast

There are beaches, and then there are Conde Nast Traveler’s top beaches. A little hidden gem in the Konavle region, some 30 km south of Dubrovnik, Pasjača is an iconic beach known for its turquoise waters and steep access via steps carved into a hillside to an amalgamation of pebbles, sand and rocks. Extra tip: bring a picnic basket and make it a romantic experience.

Dare to do a cliff dive from (below) the city walls of Dubrovnik

Speaking of the sea, cliffs and adventure, if you’ve ever wanted to try cliff diving, Dubrovnik’s city walls will provide just what you need. When you are in the old town, head towards Buža Cafe to find a plateau on the rocks from where real adventurers like to immerse themselves in the blue Adriatic Sea. Make sure the sea is calm and there is no strong wind. You can also just soak up the sun with a cold drink while watching others cliff dive.

Explore the city’s craft scene

If you’re not into adrenaline and prefer arts and crafts, you’re spoiled for choice with delightful shops and boutiques dotted around the old town. Check out some of the local goldsmiths’ jewelry stores, a year-round Christmas shop, or a range of artisan food and wine. The maze of cobbled alleys with iconic balconies, urban plants and gardens and outstanding architecture is an additional experience in itself.

Discover the neighborhoods of Dubrovnik outside the Old Town

Don’t forget that Dubrovnik is more than just the old town; there is much more to discover beyond the stone city walls. Explore some of Dubrovnik’s other iconic neighborhoods on your own, with an experienced local or with a private guide. Visit Gruž, the urban center of the city, Lapad Bay, a recreational beach area with cafes and restaurants, or Ploče, a residential area with the most instagrammable view of the old town.

Elaphite island hopping by private yacht

In case you didn’t know, the Dubrovnik region is surrounded by islands, islets, bays, coves and beaches. If you are a real sea lover, rent a private yacht and spend a day exploring the islands. This fascinating journey is a unique and best option to visit hidden treasures of Elafiti Islands in Dubrovnik to discover natural beauty and historical heritage in comfort and seclusion.

Picnic with the family on the magical island of Lokrum

If you want to experience Dubrovnik island life without spending the whole day at sea, travel to Lokrum Island, which is just a few minutes’ boat ride from the coast. This natural park has it all: picnic areas under olive groves, hiking trails, free-roaming peacocks, an arboretum, historic sites and Game of Thrones filming locations, swimming spots all over the island, and even a “dead sea” in the center of the island.

Enjoy a beautiful sunset over the city from Mount Srđ

Dubrovnik has more beautiful sunsets than one could dream of – and not just in summer. The best sunsets are probably those with the sun falling into the sea behind the Elaphite Islands, and the best position to see them is from the top of Srđ Mountain. They are accessible via private transport, cable car or trekking from the Old Town. This is such a beautiful photo location that many people choose to have their proposal photos taken here.

Visit the Homeland War Museum

While at the top of Srđ Hill, stop at the Homeland War Museum, which is located in Napoleon Fort Imperial, the current symbol of Dubrovnik’s defense and independence. The museum has important exhibitions about the history of the fortress and the Croatian War of Independence from 1991 to 1995 with authentic documents, videos and photos, weapons, explosives and more. Bonus the beautiful panoramic views that can be enjoyed from an adjacent hilltop bar.

Don’t forget wine hour

Although we have already talked about wine and the view from the Pelješac Bridge, wine culture is so widespread in the Dubrovnik region that it takes more than one visit to taste the different varieties on offer. Plavac Mali (meaning ‘little blue’ after the small dark blue grapes on the vines) is Dalmatia’s finest red wine, also a relative of Zinfandel, while Korčula is a haven for two of Croatia’s best-loved white varieties: Pošip and Grk.

Christian Larss Kreković is General Manager at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik. Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is a luxury resort on Croatia’s Adriatic coast, offering tailor-made guest experiences.

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