Travel guide – dubrovnik
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Overview
Despite a turbulent history during which it has been occupied and conquered by a succession of its neighbours and European colonial powers, Dubrovnik is now a town at peace, allowing visitors to make the most of its rich vegetation, beautiful lakes, white pebble beaches and crystal-clear sea. Political upheaval has seldom kept tourists away from this uniquely lovely Adriatic port city; for centuries it has drawn those seeking fine accommodations, excellent cuisine, beautiful surroundings and recreational opportunities. George Bernard Shaw is quoted as describing Dubrovnik as 'heaven on earth'. The old town, dating from the 7th century, is on Unesco's list of World Heritage Sites. Enclosed by city walls built in the 12th century, the buildings of the town represent a cross-section of medieval architectural styles and remain well preserved. The centre of the town is the Stradun, its main street, which was originally a channel separating an island from the mainland, and was filled in to join two opposite towns into the merged city of Dubrovnik. The main tourist area lies southeast of the old town at Ploce, where most hotels and the best beaches can be found. There are numerous churches, monasteries and museums to explore and the coastal belt is awash with marinas, piers and promenades.
Climate
Dubrovnik has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The wettest months are October, November and December. Summer days can be intensely hot, but humidity is moderate and gentle breezes ensure very cool, pleasant evenings.
Health
No vaccinations are required, however there is a risk of tick-borne encephalitis for those travelling in forested areas or who consume unpasteurized dairy products. Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations are also recommended. The bird flu virus was found in dead migratory swans in eastern Slavonia and stringent measures have been taken by the Croatian authorities to contain the virus. Travellers to Croatia are unlikely to be affected, but should avoid any contact with live birds and ensure poultry and egg dishes are well cooked. Hospitals and medical treatment are fairly good, with free emergency medical care available to UK citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), though some medicines are in short supply in public facilities. Non-UK nationals are advised to invest in health insurance.
The basics
Getting Around
Dubrovnik has an efficient public bus system. Buses run from 5am to midnight, from Pile Gate in the Old Town. Fares are standard: 10HRK for tickets bought from the driver, and 8HRK if bought from a kiosk, known as a 'Tisak'. The old town is pedestrianised, therefore taxis do not enter this area and those with rental cars will have to park in specially designated areas outside the gates. Metered taxis are, however, available at the bus station, Gruz harbour, Pile Gate and Ploce Gate.
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