Dubrovnik is one of the main tourist destinations not only in the Mediterranean region but in Europe. While staying in Montenegro, you can easily visit it by car or bus (going from Podgorica through Budva, Kotor, Tivat and Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik) or with one-day excursion (only make sure you are allowed to enter the Schengen zone). The distance between Herceg Novi and Dubrovnik is less than 50 km.
Of course, Dubrovnik is famous for its awesome and well-preserved Old Town. It is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its remarkable architecture and fortifications. In 1205–1358, Dubrovnik was under Venetian rule and Ragusa (historical name of Dubrovnik) maritime republic reached its maximum power and wealth later in the 15th- 16th centuries. Dubrovnik was significantly destroyed by the great earthquake of 1667 and also damaged in 1991 during the war in former Yugoslavia, but due to huge repair and restoration efforts it’s presently kept in a good state.
Nowadays, Dubrovnik is also known as a main filming location for King’s Landing in the famous TV series Game of Thrones. Many tours in Dubrovnik visit the exact places where certain scenes were filmed.
During the high season in July and August, all this popularity of Dubrovnik often leads to over-tourism, so if it is possible, better visit Dubrovnik not in summer.
Another downside of Dubrovnik is the high prices (especially compared to Montenegro). A good idea is to buy Dubrovnik Pass, available for 1, 3 or 7 days and allowing you to enter main sights for free (including the City Walls) or with a discount. You can buy it online or inside the Old Town and then you just show QR code where it is necessary.
The City Walls of Dubrovnik, with a length of about 1,940 metres, are probably the top attraction here. To walk along them is a must-do thing in Dubrovnik. The Walls were constructed in 13-17th centuries, and they are very well-preserved.
While walking along the City Walls, you’ll enjoy remarkable views of the Old Town. Another way to see the whole Old Town as well as islands nearby is the cable car going to the top of Mount Srd. Its bottom station is located very close to the Old Town.
The Rector’s Palace is a palace used as the main seat of the Rector of the Ragusa Republic in 14-19th centuries. The architecture of the palace is quite interesting. Presently it serves as a museum, and you’ll find several exhibitions on the second floor.
The Dominican Monastery in Dubrovnik, dating back to the 14th century, is a beautiful building with fantastic architecture and wonderful, peaceful courtyard. Several rooms here work as a museum, presenting a collection of paintings, jewelry, and religious objects.
The history of Franciscan monastery and church in Dubrovnik starts in the 13th century. First it was outside the City Walls, and then it moved inside in the 14th century. Currently, it is a museum sharing a large collection of old manuscripts. It includes the pharmacy, which is considered to be the oldest still-working pharmacy in Europe.
Fort Lovrijenac, or St. Lawrence Fortress, is a fortress located outside the City Walls. It is definitely worth visiting. You’ll see yet another panoramic view of the Old Town from the top of Fort Lovrijenac. Nowadays, they use the fortress as a theater scene.
The Adriatic coastal line in Croatia is known by its islands, and there are a lot of islands near Dubrovnik, too. The island Lokrum is located 600 metres far from Dubrovnik and there are a lot of boats going back and forth. Here you can sit on a replica of the Game of Thrones’ Iron Throne.
But actually, the most interesting attraction here is the Botanical Garden, including pines, olives, cacti, palms, and other Mediterranean flora. There are several hiking trails along the island and a nice restaurant to have a break and rest. Generally speaking, the atmosphere is very calming and relaxing.
Sure, Dubrovnik is a great place to enjoy sunsets, awesome night views of the Old Town, and nightlife in general.