Places to Visit in Dubrovnik. Croatia is a magnificent country with an interesting history and culture, fantastic beaches, and crystal waters. Most of the historical and archeological treasures of the country are hidden in main Croatian cities. Dubrovnik is one of the most important ones to visit for so many reasons. There is indeed a reason why it’s often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” It has a splendid location right on the Dalmatian coast lavished with plenty of jaw-dropping historical sites that cannot go unnoticed.
Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik has gained lots of Venetian and Hungarian influence throughout the waves of history. Dubrovnik is also a city of many activities and festivals which can be explored by taking a walk in the narrow streets of the city. If you’re visiting Dubrovnik for the first time and are confused about where to start, here are some of the highlights of the city you can check out as the best places to visit in Dubrovnik and include in your itinerary to Croatia.
Check out the Dubrovnik map at the end of this article.
The Old City Walls
There is no better way to start for places to visit in Dubrovnik but from the Old City Walls built in the 10th century. The walls were initially developed to defend the city from the invaders. Of course, they did provide a robust defense due to the six meters height and six meters thickness. The fascinating part about the walls is the two towers – the Miceta and Bokar Towers, as well as the two forts – the Lovrenac and the Revelin. The great news is that nowadays, the walls are considered not only prominent historical sites but also a popular spot to walk around and enjoy incredible views of Dubrovnik city and the Adriatic.
Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury
Dubrovnik Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is one of the most picturesque Baroque style buildings in Croatia dating back from the 6th century. Even though it has been destroyed many times by earthquakes, it has also been renovated. It welcomes interested travelers from around the world. Besides the beautiful interior décor, the Cathedral also presents some of the most exquisite paintings from the 16-18th centuries by Italian and Dalmatian artists. The highlight of the Cathedral is the piece “Virgin of the Chair” by Raphael. As for the Treasury, the most important thing about it is seeing some important relics from the history of the world. For instance, you can find a portion of the cross that Jesus Christ had been crucified upon or some parts of St. Blaise preserved from the 13th century. Undeniably the Cathedral is one of the places to visit in Dubrovnik.
Check out the Dubrovnik map at the end of this article.
The Fort of St. John
Very often called the Fort of St. Ivan, this Fort has been one of the most essential spots of Dubrovnik from centuries ago. To get acquainted with the history of the building, you can visit the Maritime Museum of Dubrovnik, where you will see some models of old boats and naval artifacts as well as the Aquarium of Dubrovnik, which exhibits some local and exotic species of fish. Very close to the Fort of St. John is Bokar Fort, which is a fantastic spot to witness some breathtaking views over Dubrovnik city and the Adriatic Sea.
The Rector’s Palace and Cultural Historical Museum
The Rector’s Palace was destined to undergo some damages by explosions, earthquakes, and other disasters throughout centuries. However, it has been renovated and still stands out with its unique, beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. It now serves as the Cultural Historical Museum of Dubrovnik. The museum exhibits around 15,000 pieces preserved from the medieval times of the Republic of Ragusa. You will as well admire the dine paintings by Venetian and Dalmatian artists. If you happen to visit Dubrovnik in summer, don’t miss visiting a classical music performance which takes place regularly in the summer season.
St. Savoir Church and the Big Fountain
In your places to visit in Dubrovnik is St. Savoir Church or Crkva sv Spasa, called in Croatian, was built in the 16th century and was one of the rare buildings having survived the devastating earthquake in Dubrovnik in 1667. The remarkable Gothic and Renaissance mix of the church will definitely leave you speechless. The exterior and the interior of the church are indeed one of a kind and worth visiting. Right in front of St. Savoir Church is located another prominent attraction in Dubrovnik, the famous Big Fountain of Onofrio. Unfortunately, only a small remain has been left from what it originally was before the earthquake but is still fascinating. It can easily be accessed from the Pile Gate and is a perfect area to walk around and explore the beautiful city of Dubrovnik.
The Loggia Square
Loggia is one of the most important hotspots of the city of Dubrovnik. Some of the most vital buildings and public monuments of the city are surrounded in this square. Located in the north eastern side of Dubrovnik, the Square of the Loggia includes vital sites such as the Orlando’s Column, Loggia of the Bells preserved from the 15th century. Not any less important site is the Church of St. Blaise with exquisite Baroque façade and unique pieces of art inside. Right in front of the small fountain Onofrio is located a 15th century clock tower.
Dubrovnik truly is one of the most incredible cities in Croatia and there is indeed a lot to see and do here. With so much historical and cultural heritage, this city leaves its visitors speechless and provides unforgettable memories. If you’re in Dubrovnik for the first time or in the city for a short period of time, you might feel in a dilemma on where to start your city tour. Of course the above listed places to visit in Dubrovnik are not everything out there to see, but certainly you can include these in your travel itinerary to Croatia for the best Authentic Croatian Experience.
See also. Best cities in Croatia.
