Called the Adriatic pearl, Dubrovnik is the majestic and one of the most refined Croatia cities. Along with Venice and Amsterdam, it is included in the list of three most gorgeous UNESCO cities and the European Renaissance monuments. Dubrovnik is the real miracle made by peoples hands, the city that is worth admiration, and you cannot negate Bernard Shaws words that Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik and see Dubrovnik. In the seventh century, citizens of the Epidavros founded a city on the small rocky Laus island and called it Ragusium. The name Dubrovnik appeared in the 8th century, when the place was occupied by the Slavic tribes, and comes from the word dub which means the oak tree as lots of such trees were growing here. The city had been developing for several centuries and thanks to its highly developed merchant navy already by the middle of the V century it became an independent republic. XV-XVII centuries were the golden time for Dubrovnik as during this time it got its modern look that is still observed by the tourists. The fortress walls (2 km long, up to 6 meters wide and up to 20 meters high) were being built for nearly six centuries and have always been a firm protection against the enemies. Even now, they still boast their brilliant condition and are open to the public and those who venture to climb the walls will be able to delight in astonishing views over the city and the islands.

The ancient city is included in the UNESCO list of world depositories as it keeps lots of cultural and architectural masterpieces, such as St. Blaise Church, Rector’s Palace, Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries, Onofrio’s Fountains, the Europes oldest synagogue, Aquarium and Maritime Museum and the arts museum.

Dubrovnik and Zavtat swimming places are really various: small pebble, concrete platforms with stairs to descend to the sea as well as rocky coastline and sand can be found here. Sandy beaches are located on Lopud and Kolocep islands while pebble beaches with sandy entrances are found in the Lapad bay and Zavtat, opposite the Albatros Hotel. Some of the local citizens bathe right next to the rocks under the city walls, but most people prefer an equipped beach close to the ancient city where a special water-hill for children can be found. In addition to fantastic choice of swimming opportunities, the place boasts its rare sea beauty which, according to Jak Iv Kusto, is the cleanest sea all around the Adriatic.

The region is also well-known for its fresh seafood and meat fares prepared of mutton and lamb, while the real local delicacies are oysters and mussels delivered from the bay not far from Ston. The Southern Dalmatia is also well loved for its wines, especially the Dingac, “Postup” and Posip brands.

There is also a fantastic amount of bars and several discos in Dubrovnik. Those who to entertain themselves have a fantastic amount of places to chose from: Burbon street with its numerous bars, Hamingway cocktail-bar in Cuban style; Otok; Jazz bar; Irish pub and Gradska kavana for those who prefer cool atmosphere; discos, including the Italian Divinae Follie and many more. But mind that such places close early in the evening during the season when there are not so many tourists here.

The ancient city of Dubrovnik on the southern coast of Croatia is known by many as the Jewel of the Adriatic. A recognised UNESCO World Heritage site, the city and its many islands attract tourists from all over the world.

Dubrovnik is a port town that has a rich maritime history, the walled city has retained much of the Croat traditions, with the citys Ancient Town remaining unchanged since the 13th century. A well loved destination for those looking to take in the beauty of the Balkan countryside and to explore a city steeped in history.

Flights to Dubrovnik have become more widely available from more UK airports and with more hotels in Dubrovnik having been built in recent times, many more of us are choosing to head to the Balkan states in search of sun, sea and sand.

When visiting ancient Dubrovnik, you pass through one of four city gates, including the well-known Pile Gate, the defensive walls stretch for over two kilometres around the city. Within these walls lie a city steeped in history, with hotels and cafes nestled in amongst the ancient churches and monasteries. One of the centrepieces of Dubrovnik ancient town is the Onofrio Fountain, as well as variety of monasteries and churches.

The city centre plays host to the annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival which showcases films, theatre performances and musical events from local and national artists. The festival helps attract thousands of visitors to the region each year. It is advisable to book hotels early and assure that youve allowed plenty of time to book your flights.

The coastal location of Dubrovnik make it a perfect destination for those seeking to participate in extreme sports such as mountain biking and watersports. Indeed, the surrounding mountains are a well loved haven for hikers and cross-country cyclists, allowing the chance to take in the beauty of the Croatian countryside whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of the countryside.

The region is also well loved with diving enthusiasts, with a variety of coral reefs and wrecks to be found off the coast, with many not having been learned as of yet. Sailing and boat tours are also another draw for tourists who are looking to experience the crystal clear waters, and local restaurants and offer the chance to sample the taste of the ocean with locally caught fish.

If youre looking to holiday to the region, it can be worth taking the time to compare hotels and plot your Croatian experience in advance. So whether youre looking to take walks into the surrounding countryside or simply relax by the beach, theres something for everyone in the city that was once described as enchanting by George Bernard Shaw and many others.

Dubrovnik is a place of history, wealth and culture, being the arts center of Croatia. Many artists, poets and writers originate from the South Coast, making it one of the most well loved resorts on the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik is a resort for the elite, with hosts of celebrities holidaying or buying property there. The beauty of this city with its stretches of harbors and stunning coast line makes visiting this wonderful place a must.

Unfortunately, Dubrovnik was hit hard during bombing of the Montenegrin Navy from 1992-1993. Statistics show that nearly a third of Dubrovniks buildings were hurt during the war, but by visiting the city you would never have thought it. The city has obviously worked extremely hard in restoring its building. Only if you look very hard can you see spots in the cobbles where a bomb has hit or a gun has been fired. Many people would agree that this only gives the city more character.

You wont be disappointed in the range of activities Dubrovnik has to offer. A must-see attraction has to be Sponza Palace, one of the original buildings to survive the destructive effects of an earthquake in 1667. The Palace is home to vital historical documents and is an extremely fascinating visit; its incredible gothic architecture is really worth seeing. Another place you should certainly visit is the Church of St. Ignatius and the Jesuit College. This is a gorgeous Baroque Church located on a small hill. The exterior and interior is astonishing, and well worth a look. For those interested in this kind of sightseeing, there are countless Churches and monasteries in Dubrovnik to visit.

If you are lucky enough to visit Dubrovnik in the summer months, make sure you make time to go to Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This festival has run every year since 1950, and occupies most of July and August. The festival includes a mix of musical and theatrical performances, all of high quality. The summer months will be busier than the rest of the year, but the vibrant atmosphere of this festival shouldnt be missed if possible.

Dubrovnik hotels are high in quantity and quality. With hosts of celebrities flocking here for their holidays, there is a high number of 5* hotels in Dubrovnik, perfect to really spoil and indulge yourself. Alternatively, you will be able to find many cheap hotels if you search online.