Approaching Dubrovnik from the sea is a spectacle in itself, with the city’s vast medieval walls appearing the same today as they did 700 years ago. From here, a warren of cobbled streets leads to the captivating Old Town, a World Heritage Site brimming with Baroque palaces and ancient stone houses, all topped with perennial terracotta tiles. Marvel at Rector’s Palace, St Saviour Church and Dubrovnik Cathedral, later taking a guided hike to the ramparts of Lovrijenac, the city’s iconic clifftop castle. There’s time, too, for a ride on Dubrovnik’s beloved cable car – a trip that promises one of Europe’s best coastal views.
For those journeying to Dubrovnik as part of an upcoming Emerald Waterways ocean cruise, our guide can help you get more from your free time in this incredible destination – from must-see sights and hidden gems, to unmissable foodie highlights.
Like all of Dalmatia, Dubrovnik owes much of its culinary heritage to the sea. One of the city’s favourite seafood dishes is Mušule na buzaru, a stew of mussels, shrimps and clams cooked in white wine sauce with garlic, parsley and bread crumbs – utterly divine.
Where to find it: Many restaurants in Dubrovnik rely on the Adriatic to fill their pantries, but Nautika is among the best, and is beloved for its Mušule na buzaru.
Italy has had a huge influence on Croatian cookery over the years, and pasta is now considered one of the country’s national dishes. For a devilishly satisfying lunch, try Makaruli Šporki or ‘dirty macaroni’, a Croatian spin on classic Italian macaroni that always hits the spot.
Where to find it: For the richest, most calorific and outright delicious dirty macaroni in town, head to Restaurant Kopun in the heart of the Old Town, and look forward to a real Mediterranean treat.
One of Dubrovnik’s oldest dishes, Zelena Menestra is a type of green stew, made from meat, potatoes and cabbage, that’s been made in the city since at least the 14th century. A classic peasant dish, this is Dalmatian cuisine at its most humble and authentic.
Where to find it: For traditional Croatian eats beside the Adriatic, it has to be Poklisar. With its harbour-front terrace, there’s no finer spot to sample local culinary mainstays.