Unique Things to Do in Dubrovnik
As the artistic and cultural center of Croatia, there are many unique things to do in Dubrovnik as well as many cultural attractions and festivals for visitors to see. Among these spectacular attractions, we can mention the cathedral, narrow and winding sidewalks, beautiful historical palaces, and military forts. The Old Town is the most interesting and attractive part of Dubrovnik. Since this part covers a small area of the city, it is better to explore it on foot in order to see the surrounding part better.
There are many wholesome things to do in Dubrovnik, and while walking through the romantic streets and alleys of the old part and observing the ancient stone walls, a special and somewhat mysterious emotion will fill you. The joyful and happy people walking the streets, the amazing architecture, and the city’s hospitality are ways to know and understand the Croatian culture of the region’s people.
Visiting The Assumption Cathedral
This church was built on the site of an older church dating back to the 6th century, which was seriously damaged in several earthquakes. This building is famous for its 3 corridors and its interior design, and its highlights include paintings by Italian artists from the 16th to 18th centuries, including a work by Raphael. Also, visiting the church’s interior with its important antiques is one of the inspiring things to do in Dubrovnik. Among the items inside this treasure, some boxes for keeping gold and silver blessed objects came from all over the world.
Walking in Stradun Main Street
Walking along the Stradun main street is definitely one of the more memorable things to do in Dubrovnik. In fact, Stradun Street is a gathering place for local people and tourists day and night and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cobbled streets and sidewalks in Europe. There are many cafes and restaurants here where you can relax after a day of sightseeing in Dubrovnik. This 300-meter street dates back to 1468, but many buildings belong to the 17th century.
Admire the Franciscan & Dominikanski Monasteries
The Dominican monastery was built in the early 1300s and was so big that part of the city walls were moved to build it. Unfortunately, this monastery suffered heavy damage in the earthquake of 1667, and its present appearance was formed after the reconstruction. Make sure to take a look at the 15th and 16th-century religious paintings in this monastery. After here, take a walk to the Franciscan monastery. One of the richest libraries in Croatia and an amazing medieval pharmacy are located here. Old jars, measuring tools, and pharmaceutical mortars can still be seen in this area.
Visit the inside of Rector’s Palace
The Rector’s Palace was built in 1435, and today we can see the historical and cultural museum of the city in it. This building was built in the late Gothic and early Renaissance styles. Because of its many damages during its life, it does not have its former glory. In the collection of this museum, you can see more than 15,000 displayed items from the Middle Ages, along with paintings by different artists.
Walk Along The Dubrovnik City Walls
Dubrovnik’s Old Town Walls are one of the city’s most recognizable features. These walls were built in the 10th century and then changed in the 13th and 14th centuries. Their height is 6 meters, and their thickness is the same. The defensive walls of Dubrovnik are about 2 kilometers long. As for outdoor things to do in Dubrovnik, they are perfect for an excursion with wonderful views. To access the walls, you must go through the main entrance on the left side of the Pile Gate (Vrata od Pila).
Having a Stroll near Onofrio’s Fountain
Once you pass through the city gates, you will find yourself in front of the beautiful Onofrio Fountain, a favorite of the city’s youth. Perhaps the most beautiful and interesting building in this part of the old quarter is the “Franciscan” monastery, which was built in the Middle Ages and is one of the best and most harmonious examples of Gothic and Roman architecture in Dubrovnik. The monastery church is also often the venue for various concerts yearly. As you continue, you will reach the most famous and popular street in Dubrovnik, “Stradun.”
Enjoying the View of Lovrijenac Fortress
This fortress is located outside the western walls of the city and on a rocky cliff. This military building was one of Croatia’s most important fortresses for a long time. “Lovrijenac” was located at a height of 37 meters above the water level and was impenetrable in its time. This fort is famous for its triangular view with 3 terraces and can be accessed through two drawbridges. The famous Dubrovnik Summer Festival and many musical and theatrical performances are definitely among the cultural activities things to do in Dubrovnik.
Taking Picture of “Clocktower” at night
Loggia Square has been a gathering place for locals and tourists for many years. You can see some of the city’s most famous buildings and public monuments here. The Square of the Loggia is in the northeast of the old quarter of Dubrovnik. Among these attractions, visit the “Orlando’s Column,” made by a sculptor named Antonio Ragusino, and the “Clocktower” from 1480, which was used as a warning system during riots.
