I’ve just returned from an action packed 3 days in Croatia
We flew out direct from Manchester to Dubrovnik, the flight was just over 2 hours. We were met by transfer company and taken to our apartment in Lapad (approx 30 minutes) The apartment was perfectly adequate- nothing fancy but a great location and a good air con system!
Lapad to Dubrovnik city took around 15 minutes by bus or taxi/Uber (15krn by bs, 50krn uber one way)Buses run every 10 minutes until around midnight- buy you ticket from a kiosk or from the driver
We took a guided tour of the city, I would recommend this early as possible as it was so hot (even in May!) Only 2 cruise ships per day are allowed into the city, this has reduced the crowds. Our knowledgeable local guide took us around the walled city for around 90 minutes, sharing stories and historical information. After the tour we took the cable car to the top of the cliff (approx 200krn) where we enjoyed lunch with spectacular views at the Panorama restaurant.
Afterwards we donned safety helmets and went off roading in buggies! we were absolutely filthy at the end of it but we had great fun!
Back down in the city we walked the walls, its recommended to do this later in the day when the big tour groups have left. At around £28pp its not cheap and its not for anyone with mobility issues- lots of steep steps and uneven surfaces, However we had fab views and as the sun began to set it became more spectacular,
There are lots of lovely little shops, bars and restaurants tucked away in narrow streets- just great to explore. Game of Thrones fans will be in heaven as there are lots of shops/photo opportunities! I haven’t seen a single episode so cant comment further!
The port offers lots of ferries and boat trips to other resorts and islands. We went to Milini (approx 30 mins 60KRN oneway) to check out the hotel I’m taking a group to in September. It’s beautiful-very quiet, looking forward to returning there. We then proceeded to Cavtat (another 15 mins away a nice seafront promenade lined with shops, bars and restaurants. Bathing from platforms and a small old town. There is aircraft noise though as the airport is not far away. Cavtat to Dubrovnik is around 45 mins by boat 100 KRN.
On my birthday we took a half day boat trip to Lopud, 3 caves and the blue cave. Lopud has some nice seafront shops, restaurants and bars and a small beach, we were there around an hour before we went to the caves. First stop was the 3 caves where we swam and snorkelled, I didn’t venture into one where you have to hold your breath and swim through a gap but others did it! The last stop was the blue cave, we swam inside and indeed it was very blue- it made us look blue lol! We were provided with snorkel equipment and life jackets if we wanted them. They also gave us a sandwich and drinks, great value and good fun.
Lapad
We stayed in Lapad which has two main areas- the marina on one side and the back on the other (probably 20mins walk between the two)Our apartment was close to the promenade lined with bars and restaurants (but not loud music bars) we ate at a fabulous seafood restaurant overlooking the sea the first night, look out for the cat apparently he’s been a regular there for years! The second night we ate at a small family restaurant halfway between the marina and the beach. We found it to be excellent value and very friendly staff serving homemade local dishes. On our final night we ate at the restaurant More (hotel More) We had booked in advance and had a table overlooking the sea facing the most incredible sunset. It was a wonderful meal and a lovely treat on my birthday- highly recommended. The hotel also has a bar built into the caves, definitely worth a look.
Currency- Koruna. take local currency, some bigger places took Euro but change is given in Koruna. Lots of ATM machines to withdraw money but check your bank charges
Prices aren’t cheap but we had very good service and felt we had good value for the locations we chose to eat/drink. As with anywhere the more you venture off the tourist trail the better prices you get
Insect repellent- take some!
We loved it and can’t wait to go back
Contact me to book your tailormade trip to Croatia
