Dubrovnik, Croatia, captures you in its unique charm the minute you arrive. This coastal city, perched beside the shimmering Adriatic Sea, is a long-desired destination, and today, the adventure is real. Our journey to Dubrovnik begins with a scenic drive along the stunning coastline. The Adriatic’s deep blue hues seem to stretch endlessly before your eyes.
Our home for this Croatian adventure is the appropriately named Royal Blue resort, a magnificent oceanfront gem. With its spacious rooms and panoramic views of the Adriatic, the Royal Blue is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the beauty of Dubrovnik. Each evening, the resort’s private beach is the stage for nature’s grand show. It offers front-row seats to the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and yellow, and casting their warm glow on the Adriatic.
But the resort is just the beginning. Our first evening takes us to the Dubrovnik Old Town port, ready to board the Galleon Tirena. We’re sailing into history. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also undeniably fun and entertaining. As we sip wine, the Galleon Tirena sets sail, and as the wind catches its sails, we’re transported to a world of fantasy. The walled fortress of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands before us, where Game of Thrones found its King’s Landing.
Old Town is like stepping into a time capsule. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with charming buildings, their terracotta roofs gleaming in the sunlight. We stroll through narrow alleyways. The maze-like streets lead us to hidden courtyards and picturesque squares, each with its own story to tell.
After our exploration, we stop for lunch at one of the many outdoor cafes scattered throughout Old Town. These cafes seem to be tucked into every nook and cranny, offering a variety of cuisine. Our tour of Old Town invigorates and challenges us, especially when we choose to climb to the top of the 15th-century fortress wall. Lunch at the cafe provides the fuel we need to conquer the journey. The mile-long walk around the towering walls is an experience like no other. It feels as though we’re on top of the world, above the rooftops of this ancient city, looking down on life below. The panoramic views of the port and the shimmering Adriatic Sea are nothing short of phenomenal.
Old Town isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a vibrant blend of old and new. It’s amazing that people actually live inside these ancient walls, residing in modern apartments and condos. Some go to school and work within the city, making it a living, breathing community. It’s not unusual to see laundry drying on racks or clotheslines, just as you might find in any neighborhood.
From our high vantage point on the fortress wall, we have a unique perspective on daily life within the city. Looking down, we can see a group of locals playing basketball in a courtyard, a testament to the vibrant nature of Old Town.
As we continue our walk around the wall, we discover numerous opportunities to pause and soak in the atmosphere. Several cafes and bars provide the perfect excuse to take a break, savor a drink, or enjoy a sweet treat like gelato.
In the evening, we have the chance to dine among the stars and the soft glow of Dubrovnik’s port lights. The Arsenal restaurant, nestled within the ancient walls, offers fantastic waterfront views. From inside the restaurant, it feels as though we’re looking out of a colossal picture window, where the sparkling Adriatic Sea and the timeless beauty of Dubrovnik are on full display.
The culinary offerings in Dubrovnik primarily center on the area’s abundant seafood. Each dish is a testament to the culinary skill and love for the sea that the locals hold. The presentation of every meal is neatly crafted and well plated, making every dining experience a memorable one.
Whether it’s a perfectly grilled Adriatic fish or a seafood risotto, the flavors and aromas of each dish transport us to the heart of the Mediterranean. The local wines, with their unique character and taste, accompany our meals beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Dubrovnik, with its captivating blend of scenic wonders and glorious history, is an experience that exceeded our expectations. The city’s unique ability to seamlessly merge the past with the present, the ancient with the modern, is a testament to the enduring spirit of this coastal gem.
Walk With Me In Dubrovnik
Story & Video By Steve Geiger
