Short history of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, nestled in the southern region of Croatia, is a jewel of the Mediterranean and a must-visit destination for travelers seeking unparalleled beauty and rich cultural history. This ancient city, tracing its roots back to the 7th century, has a fascinating story to tell. For 700 years, Dubrovnik enjoyed independence as a merchant republic, engaging in trade with far-flung lands such as Turkey and India, and maintaining trade representatives in Africa, specifically in the Cape Verde Islands. In the Middle Ages, Dubrovnik even had diplomatic relations with the English court. Its esteemed status was so impressive that even the powerful and affluent Venice was envious of this Croatian city. In recognition of its exceptional cultural significance, Dubrovnik was inscribed on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites in 1979, further solidifying its place in history.

dubrovnik walls

Dubrovnik Croatia: King’s Landing

The Old Town Walls are undoubtedly one of the most iconic features of Dubrovnik, encircling the city and fortress that make up the heart of the Old Town. These walls offer breathtaking views of the city and are an absolute must-see for visitors. If you enter through the Ploce Gate to the East or the Pile Gate to the West, you can easily access the entrances to walk along the walls, an experience that locals highly recommend.

Once inside the Old Town, you’ll come across the Stradun, a stunning 300-meter long street that’s the widest in the old city. Originally a bridge, it evolved into the main street of Dubrovnik, and many of the city’s historic buildings and monuments are located along it. No wonder it’s a popular spot for tourists to stroll and soak up the city’s charm.

For fans of Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is the ultimate pilgrimage site, serving as the real-life location of the Iron Throne and King’s Landing in the hit HBO series. The show’s fantastical universe is brought to life against the backdrop of Dubrovnik’s magnificent walls, adding to the allure of this stunning city. Little wonder that the series is widely considered one of the best of all time, with an impressive rating of 9.4 on IMDB.

Kings Landing Dubrovnik

Game of Thrones filming location in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia is a mecca for Game of Thrones enthusiasts, as the city served as the stunning backdrop for King’s Landing in the acclaimed television series. Many iconic scenes were shot in this magnificent location, such as Cersei’s unforgettable walk of shame, King Joffery’s tournament, and Daenerys Targaryen’s visit to Qarth.

One of the most famous scenes in season five, the “Walk of Shame” began at the top of the Jesuit Staircase, located on the south side of Gundulic Square. This beautiful staircase leads up to Jezuite Street, where the Jesuit Church of St. Ignatius and two of Dubrovnik’s colleges, Collegium Ragusinum, and Jesuit College, can be found.

For fans of the show, Dubrovnik offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Game of Thrones and relive some of their favorite moments. The city’s stunning architecture and rich history make it the perfect setting for this epic fantasy tale, further adding to its appeal.

Jesuit Staircase Dubrovnik

Top 10 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Dubrovnik Croatia

  1. Lovrijenac Fort – The Red Keep
  2. Dubrovnik West Pier – Blackwater Bay
  3. Pile Harbour
  4. Dubrovnik West Harbour
  5. Fort Bokar
  6. Gradac Park – The Purple Wedding
  7. Pile Gate
  8. Minčeta tower – The House of Undying
  9. Jesuit Staircase
  10. The Rector’s Palace

The transformation of Dubrovnik to King’s Landing

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

In addition to its Game of Thrones fame, Dubrovnik is also renowned for its summer festival, which is the main producer of top-quality events in the city and Croatia’s leading cultural institution. It’s considered one of Europe’s most prestigious cultural festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. The festival’s program policy is site-specific, combining tradition and modernity, and showcasing the best of local, national, and international creativity.

There’s so much to see and experience in Dubrovnik, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. You can take a tour of the city walls, which offer unparalleled views of the city and its surroundings. You can also visit beautiful churches and cultural events, such as the Franciscan Monastery. And when the sun sets, Dubrovnik’s nightlife comes alive, offering a diverse range of entertainment options to suit any taste. All in all, Dubrovnik is a destination that should definitely be high on your travel wish list.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

Nightlife in Dubrovnik: Culture Club Revelin

Dubrovnik’s nightlife scene is undeniably exciting, and one of the most famous places to experience it is Culture Club Revelin. This unique club venue opened its doors in the summer of 2011 and is located within a 16th-century fortress that forms the eastern end of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The historical significance of this fortress, constructed by Dubrovnik’s military architects, provides an ideal backdrop for a club.

Culture Club Revelin is a favorite venue for leading Croatian pop and rock acts, with performances taking place throughout the year. During the summer months, visitors can expect to see a lineup of international DJs, including big names like Fat Boy Slim, Martin Solveig, and other famous performers who take to the stage every weekend throughout the season. Whether you’re a fan of live music or electronic beats, Culture Club Revelin is sure to provide an unforgettable nightlife experience in Dubrovnik.

It’s time for the outdoor adventure near Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is undoubtedly a fantastic city, but like all beautiful places, it can get quite crowded, particularly when tours and cruise ships arrive. If you find yourself wondering what to do in Dubrovnik during the busy periods, our recommendation would be to explore the surrounding areas outside the city walls.

Fortunately, there are many places to visit for a vacation or weekend outdoor adventure, such as the stunning National Park Sutjeska, which is conveniently located near Dubrovnik. This beautiful park offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests, as well as opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. With so much natural beauty to discover, a visit to the National Park Sutjeska can be a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik’s crowds.

national park sutjeska

National Park Sutjeksa

National Park Sutjeska, located on the main tourist road between Belgrade, Višegrad, Foča, Tjentište, Trebinje, and Dubrovnik, covers a vast area of 17,500 hectares of pristine wilderness. It is the oldest and largest national park in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is only a 2.5-hour drive from Dubrovnik. One of the park’s main attractions is Perućica, the last remaining primeval forest in Europe, as recognized by UNESCO. Additionally, the park is home to Maglić Mountain, the highest peak in the country, standing tall at 2386 meters.

Nature enthusiasts come to the National Park Sutjeska to witness its magnificent and untouched beauty. The park offers a plethora of best hiking trails, the longest of which is 22 kilometers. For the thrill-seekers, the canyon Hrcavka located within the park is perfect for canyoning. So, if you’re looking for an escape from the crowds in Dubrovnik, visiting the National Park Sutjeska could be the perfect adventure for you.

Canyoning

Located in the stunning National Park Sutjeska, the Hrcavka river canyon is a true paradise for adrenaline junkies seeking refuge from the bustling crowds of Dubrovnik. With a series of up to 10-meter verticals, waterfalls, deep natural pools, and thrilling water slides, canyoning in Hrcavka canyon promises to be a heart-pumping adventure full of excitement and good fun. In addition to the adrenaline rush, you can also indulge in some delicious local cuisine, making it the perfect outdoor activity for thrill-seekers looking to experience the best of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s natural wonders.

Hiking in Sutjeska National Park

In the national park, Sutjeska has some beautiful hiking trails. You can hike Zelengora mountain, visit and hiking in primal forest Perucica, or if you are a romantic lover, you can go hiking to Trnovacko lake with your loved one

Hiking Trnovacko Lake

Trnovacko Lake is a stunning natural wonder that boasts a unique heart shape and crystal-clear blue-green waters. Located in the heart of the Dinaric Alps, it’s the perfect destination for a summer swim or a picturesque hike. The glacial origin of its mountain waters gives them an emerald hue that’s truly captivating. The lake’s mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a relaxing and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a romantic outing, Trnovacko Lake is the ideal spot. Take your loved one on a romantic hike and let the beauty of the heart-shaped lake steal your hearts. The hiking trail leading to the lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a truly unforgettable experience for any nature lover.

hiking girl

Back to King landing

After a rejuvenating weekend full of exciting outdoor adventures in Bosnia, it’s time to return to the heart of the action – King’s Landing. Your energy levels are replenished, and you can now fully indulge in Dubrovnik’s lively nightlife scene once again.

Kings Landing Dubrovnik