Travel Guide Dubrovnik with travel tips for Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a city on the Adriatic Sea at the southernmost end of Croatia. A UNESCO wolrld heritage site since 1979, the walled part of the old city is an architectural gem containing many buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries. This city, which has withstood siege and strife for centuries, is now one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Adriatic Coast.
History
Established in the 7th century by Slavs, Dubrovnik fluorished for hundreds of years under the protection of the Byzantine Empire. It became a republic in the 14th century and remained one until 1808. During this period, the ruling class created a very progressive society, establishing hospitals, medical service and orphanages rivaling those of the Venetians to their west. Unfortunately years of invasions followed and Dubrovnik changed hands several times. After enduring Austro-Hungarian rule and Nazi occupation, it ultimately became a part of Yugoslavia after World War I. The city became a part of the Croatian Republic in 1991, but not without significant damage and bloodshed. Today it is a vibrant and welcoming city, with few reminders of its harsh past.
Art & Museums
The walled part of the old city contains most of Dubrovnik's architectural treasures. The Sponza Palace, a beautiful example of Renaissance workmanship, houses the national archives. The library of the Franciscan Monastery contains thousands of ancient Christian documents and relics. Dubrovnik's most beloved church is St. Blaise Cathedral, named after the patron saint of the city.
Nightlife
Dubrovnik is a university town and filled with young people year round. The nightlife here is refective of that fact and discos and bars are filled nightly. Most bars in the Old Town are always hopping and Labrint, Arsenal, Hemingway, Troubadour, and Karaka are among the most popular. All of these clubs are within easy walking distance of one another, which makes for a very eclectic evening. For more of a relaxed atmosphere, the East West Beach Club on Banje beach serves as a cafe during the day and a dance club at night.
How to get there
Dubrovnik has its own international airport that is located approximately 20 km from the city center in Cilipi. There are plans for improvements to the A1 highway which is the main thoroughfare connecting Dubrovnik with other Croatian cities, but for now, flying into Dubrovnik is perhaps the best option. Buses running within the city proper connect all of the major neighborhoods and are inexpensive and efficient.