• About
  • Policies
  • Link Ups

Global Locavore

Travelling Globally, Eating Locally

  • Home
  • Blog
  • Explore
  • Eat
  • Learn

A City Of Inspiration: Dubrovnik, Croatia

July 22, 2016 globallocavore 60 Comments

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Initial Thoughts: My first impression of Dubrovnik was of pure white. I was amazed by the never ending white stone – the buildings, the columns, the cobblestones, the churches, the clock towers, the city walls. All radiant white under the blinding sun. The beauty of the city shone brightly as the white surfaces contrasted perfectly against the terracotta orange roofs, the startlingly blue sky and the countless shades of teal in the Adriatic.

cityscape blue skies church dubrovnik croatia
white stone blue skies church dubrovnik croatia

Best Moment: My clearest memories of Dubrovnik are the beautiful views I saw from above. My favourite day was spent exploring the city walls and gazing down at the ancient city below. The UNESCO World Heritage designated old city is fully enclosed by the 800 year old walls and it is possible to complete a circuit in about 2 hours (give or take a hundred photography stops!). Dubrovnik is best experienced early in the day to avoid both the crowds and the heat. My morning visit was a photographer’s heaven with nearly empty walls, crystal clear skies, sparkling water and gorgeous red roofed buildings.

city skyline church old town dubrovnik croatia
walls old town adriatic dubrovnik croatia
boats adriatic dubrovnik croatia
harbour walls old town tiled roofs dubrovnik croatia

Take Away: On one rainy day, I visited the both Maritime Museum to pore over Dubrovnik’s illustrious seafaring past and the Dubrovnik Museum to learn about the city’s gruesome past. After having explored the well-preserved city on foot, visiting the museums allowed me to better understand the complex history of Dubrovnik. Learning about the very recent siege of Dubrovnik which in 1991 caused the death of 114 people and damage to more than 50% of the historical walls, gave me some much needed perspective. I found myself thinking of Croatia as a highly developed, peaceful, European country but the legacy of the recent wars must be respected. I was inspired by Dubrovnik – first to photography its beauty, and then to admire the resiliency of its people.

ruins war dubrovnik croatia
fort walls old city dubrovnik croatia
white church blue sea adriatic dubrovnik croatia
game of thrones dubrovnik croatia

See more photos of Dubrovnik on the Global Locavore Facebook page!


Now It’s Your Turn: Who am I kidding, I know you’ve already packed your bags for a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia! Not only is it a gorgeous, historic city, it’s the main filming location of everyone’s favourite TV show – Game of Thrones. You can’t imagine how many times of yelled out “I’ve been there” during a scene and then pulled out a photo to prove it. I’m certain you’ll be adopting this same (not at all annoying) habit once you visit Croatia.

How will you know about the historic sights, the museum entrance fees and the yummy restaurants while in Dubrovnik? My honest recommendation is to buy the Lonely Planet Croatia. I never travel without a Lonely Planet and wholeheartedly encourage you to buy one before visiting a country for the first time.

Love pretty photos from around the world? Subscribe here see all my Photo Essays!


Photo Essay: A city of inspiration Dubrovnik, Croatia is a photographer's dream with white stones, blue sky and orange terracotta tiles.
Photo Essay: A city of inspiration Dubrovnik, Croatia is a photographer's dream with white stones, blue sky and orange terracotta tiles.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I will earn a small percentage of the sale if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. For more information, see my policy statements here. 

Croatia, Explore, Locavore Tips

Never Miss A Post!

Enter your email to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of all new Global Locavore posts by email!

Comments

  1. Stephen 'Beaver' Harris says

    July 22, 2016 at 2:49 pm

    Dubrovnik is for sure one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been to in my life. You are right on the money here Lauren! I was there in 2011 and I had no idea what I was coming to when I arrived. It blew my mind!

    Reply
  2. Heather Cole says

    July 22, 2016 at 4:13 pm

    Such beautiful colours, and not just white (and red). Great idea about visiting the museum, we get so much more out of a trip if we know more about the history don’t we.

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 7:56 pm

      Hi Heather. Thank you so much! Smaller, local museum are such a great resource and I recommend visiting them when possible. 🙂

      Reply
  3. bettyl - NZ says

    July 23, 2016 at 2:55 am

    What a fabulous city for photos! Wow, I am impressed with the architecture, The rooftops and boats add a wild dab of color.
    bettyl – NZ recently posted…marshmallow skiesMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:28 pm

      Absolutely! I love that the boats are so bright against the blue. I always felt like the boat owners must have done that for my viewing pleasure. 😉

      Reply
  4. Merlinda Little (Glimmer of Hope) says

    July 23, 2016 at 12:58 pm

    Awwww lovely place! I love the rustic colours and yes the whiteness! And that water is just the bluest! #photofriday
    Merlinda Little (Glimmer of Hope) recently posted…SeptemberMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:22 pm

      Thank you so much for the comment Merlinda. I think there is something to be said for encouraging standard design in cities. One of the reasons Dubrovnik is so beautiful is the repeating colours and patterns – especially the orange roof tiles!

      Reply
  5. The Mindful Mermaid says

    July 23, 2016 at 6:35 pm

    I really love the pictures you took, and you were smart to see the city walls in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat! Having studied abroad in Dubrovnik and now living here, there really is so much rich history, yet it does cause a lot of struggles for the local community. My recommendation for anyone visiting is to get to know some locals and venture outside the old town (lapad area, Mlini, Zupa area), and also to take a day trip to Cavtat!

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:18 pm

      Thank you so much for sharing your insider’s point of view. I always wonder how local people adapt to huge tourism waves. It must have some benefits but also lots of annoyance! I didn’t see too much of the area around Dubrovnik but I did spend a few weeks exploring the islands & the coast and I can definitely confirm there is so much to see in Croatia.

      Reply
  6. Betty says

    July 23, 2016 at 11:39 pm

    Lovely photography and the colors have a Santorini blue and white feel. I hope to visit someday.

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:12 pm

      Ooo! You are so right. I haven’t been to Santorini, but from the photos I’ve seen they have a similar feel. I think I need to get myself over to Greece!

      Reply
  7. Ruth Daly says

    July 24, 2016 at 11:09 am

    Gorgeous pictures! I really enjoyed this post and got to the end all too soon. You have some great shots and they are all so clear.

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:00 pm

      Thank you so much Ruth. It makes me so happy to hear that you enjoyed the post and the photos.

      Reply
  8. Aditi says

    July 24, 2016 at 6:28 pm

    I so want to go to Croatia! What gorgeous colours! How can you not fall in love with this place!
    Aditi recently posted…Snow, Express trains and Cheese fondue #SwitzerlandTravels Part 2My Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 4:00 pm

      Right? I loved Dubrovnik but also fell in love with the islands dotting the coast. Visit both if you can! Thanks for the love Aditi.

      Reply
  9. Angie (FeetDoTravel) says

    July 25, 2016 at 9:16 am

    Wow!! You have definitely captured it’s beauty!! I sooooo want to travel here, honestly it’s on my list but you have really shown it off to it’s full potential – the colours are striking! And yes, I’m a Game of Thrones fan and will also be adopting the same annoying habits! Great post!

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 3:58 pm

      Thanks so much Angie!! It’s a beautiful city and one well worth visiting – just be prepared for crowds. Unfortunately, with popularity comes increased visitors, but as long as you know what to expect you will still have a great time! 🙂

      Reply
  10. Ava @ My Meena Life says

    July 26, 2016 at 10:28 am

    This is beautiful! I also love to see cities from above whenever possible – and this looks like one worth seeing!

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 3:52 pm

      Yes! I was thinking the same thing the other day – that I should really splurge on my next trip and go on a helicopter ride. It’s something I’ve never done and would love to do. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Lolo says

    July 26, 2016 at 1:55 pm

    Wow your pictures are stunning! We went last year and I tried to get as nice of pictures as I could, but I was in a hurry to get out of the sun and the heat because it was quite extreme! We were dying by 10am so we left town and found a watering hole 15-20 minutes away from Dubrovnik! #CityTripping
    Lolo recently posted…A Weekend in BrugesMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 26, 2016 at 3:51 pm

      I totally understand! It is crazy hot in Dubrovnik due to the walls and reflective stone. I toured the walls between 7-9am and then went for a cooling swim in the sea for the rest of the day!

      Reply
  12. Bumble Bee Mum says

    July 26, 2016 at 11:38 pm

    Amazing photos! I need to pay a visit to Croatia and rewatch Game of Thrones after that. I want to be shouting “I’ve been there!” while watching the show too!! #CityTripping
    Bumble Bee Mum recently posted…Hokkaido Self-Drive Trip (June 2016) Part 4: Asahikawa – Sounkyo – ShiretokoMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:11 am

      LOL! Yes do it! Your friends and family will love you. Be sure to whip out your laptop and show them the photos too! I’ll never need an excuse to travel or watch GOT, but if you are looking for another one – consider going to Northern Ireland. It is both insanely beautiful and the setting for much of the North. So fun!

      Reply
  13. Topsy Turvy Tribe says

    July 27, 2016 at 2:30 am

    Wow some amazing photography, stunning #citytripping

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:09 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  14. Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says

    July 27, 2016 at 5:40 am

    really beautiful photos! Dubrovnik is indeed amazing:) #citytripping
    Tanja (the Red phone box travels) recently posted…Visiting a chocolate museumMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:08 am

      Thanks Tanja!!

      Reply
  15. Kit Graham says

    July 27, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    What colorful photos! Croatia is VERY HIGH on my list of places to visit next!

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:08 am

      Do it! And if possible visit some other Balkan nations too. I didn’t get to but I’ve been pining away for Montenegro ever since!

      Reply
  16. Rebecca says

    July 27, 2016 at 1:13 pm

    You’ve reminded me of what a wonderful place this was to visit – such narrow streets and yes definitely blinded by all the white! Beautiful photos too. #citytripping
    Rebecca recently posted…Lemons, Pastries and Panoramas: Naples Discovered through the Five SensesMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:07 am

      I’m so glad I was able to transport you back to Dubrovnik, if only momentarily! #photographygoals 🙂

      Reply
  17. Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld says

    July 27, 2016 at 7:25 pm

    These photos are too beautiful, seriously! I love your style of photography and editing, it transports me right there! I went to Dubrovnik a good few years ago and it is definitely a place I’d like to see again! 😀
    Marcella ~ WhatAWonderfulWorld recently posted…Two Weeks in London {In Verbs}My Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 29, 2016 at 12:29 pm

      Thank you so much Marcella! That’s really kind. The ultimate goal of travel photography is to transport the viewer so I’m overjoyed you felt that way with these photos.

      Reply
  18. Ahila says

    July 28, 2016 at 12:46 am

    Your photos of Dubrovnik are beautiful!
    Ahila recently posted…Kirinde and its local legendsMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 29, 2016 at 12:10 pm

      Thanks kindly!

      Reply
  19. Van @ Snow in Tromso says

    July 28, 2016 at 2:55 am

    Dubrovnik is pretty much on top of my bucket list right now! If only flights were cheaper from Tromso 😉

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:06 am

      Ugh! I know – imagine what is it like from Toronto? Why is airfare so expensive? 😥

      Reply
  20. Courtney @ Adelante says

    July 28, 2016 at 6:59 pm

    Gorgeous shots!!! I was just in Dubrovnik last month, and the city completely seduced me. Thanks for sharing your beautiful photography – it totally brought me back!

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:03 am

      Thanks so much Courtney. I’s so glad you had a wonderful time in Dubrovnik!

      Reply
  21. Ruth says

    July 29, 2016 at 12:41 am

    I really enjoyed your photos of Dubrovnik. I think you need to make an effort to learn at least a bit of history in every city you visit. Some cities are beautiful and picturesque but the history helps you to put things in perspective.
    Ruth recently posted…Barcelona’s Markets: A Burst of ColorMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 29, 2016 at 12:09 pm

      Thanks for the insightful comment Ruth.

      Reply
  22. Isabel says

    July 29, 2016 at 6:52 am

    Did you stay in the old town or outside? I would love to visit some day but only if I stay in the old town part. Just to feel the magic! Perfect post!
    Isabel recently posted…10 Free Things in LjubljanaMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      July 29, 2016 at 11:34 am

      Hey Isabel. I was so lucky! I stayed right inside the old town in an apartment that was actually built into the walls! One set of windows looked down over the city and the other set looked out over the harbour. It was pretty magical. I was there for four days and I found that to be plenty. I’d recommend visiting Dubrovnik for a couple of days and then spend whatever remaining time you have either on the islands or inland. I hope you get to go someday soon!

      Reply
  23. Cathy (MummyTravels) says

    July 29, 2016 at 12:29 pm

    It is such a beautiful city – I have only visited once, not long after the war finished and the country opened back up to tourism. You could still see some of the scars of the fighting, in the bright red new tiles replacing the faded originals in the roofs as well as chunks of stone missing. But it was absolutely wonderful to wander around and somewhere I’ve wanted to revisit for the past 15+ years (especially every time I spot it on Game of Thrones). One day! Your photos are just tempting me more and more. #citytripping
    Cathy (MummyTravels) recently posted…Travel tips: Sleep problems after a holidayMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 10:02 am

      Oh that is so interesting that you were there right when tourism began. I was very moved by the remnants of war that I saw, so I can only imagine how strong the sensation must have been right after the war. I found that even though Croatia is such a popular destination to visit now, it still felt unpolished. I mean that in a good way – it didn’t feel too sales-y or pushy. Hopefully that feeling can last!

      Reply
  24. Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says

    July 30, 2016 at 3:40 am

    STILL want to go to Croatia! Was it obvious where GOT filming was or did you have a tour/inside info. I love a Lonely Planet….always handy…except we have several countries on our bookcase which we have yet to visit…bought by my over-enthusiastic husband! Thanks for linking to #citytripping
    Elizabeth (Wander Mum) recently posted…Review: Trespass Girl’s Floral SwimsuitMy Profile

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 9:58 am

      I didn’t take a tour and just guess/googled the spots after the fact actually. I would probably recommend taking a tour if you like city walking tours (I sure do!) as I’m sure they would tell you all kinds of cool insider details!

      Reply
  25. Lauren says

    August 1, 2016 at 1:55 pm

    Every single one of your photos looks like a postcard! You seriously help Dubrovnik glow! This is one city/country that I really regret not getting to during my time in Europe, but I know I’ll be back. With photos like this you have me planning out my trip already! Thanks for linking up for #wanderfulwednesday! 😀

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 2, 2016 at 9:54 am

      You are too kind! I feel the same way about the Balkans – I didn’t get to see near enough, but I know I’ll be back one day!!

      Reply
  26. tea says

    August 2, 2016 at 3:56 pm

    Great photos! I can almost feel that Dubrovnik warmth – which is very much needed in this cold and rainy London

    Reply
    • globallocavore says

      August 3, 2016 at 10:04 am

      Yes! That’s a lovely part about travel photography – being magically transported somewhere else for a brief moment. On cold Canadian winters this is a gift!

      Reply
  27. Katy Clarke says

    August 4, 2016 at 3:39 pm

    Loved Dubrovnik, it’s hard not to! However I feel the recent past is swept aside somewhat by the tide of tourism. We would do well to remember those events were not that long ago. Anyway, on a much lighter note.. can you believe I was there with friends who do not eat seafood.. shocking.
    Katy Clarke recently posted…Links + loves – July 2016My Profile

    Reply
  28. Kimberley says

    August 9, 2016 at 1:41 am

    I need to go, you make it sound so perfect. I have family throughout Croatia also!

    Reply
  29. Melissa | Suitcase + Heels says

    August 19, 2016 at 9:52 pm

    I loved my time in Dubrovnik in 2012 but I think I definitely need to go back and find these great restaurants I’ve heard about. I think I just had bad luck and kept finding myself at places that were rather ‘meh’. One of my favourite things to do in town though was swimming off the walls and at Banje Beach. 🙂
    Melissa | Suitcase + Heels recently posted…How Much Does It Cost to Travel in NicaraguaMy Profile

    Reply
  30. Summer says

    August 25, 2016 at 12:54 pm

    What a beautiful place! Thanks for the photos ♥

    summerdaisycottage.blogspot.com

    Reply
  31. Helena says

    September 1, 2016 at 5:44 pm

    Amazing photos! Dubrovnik has been on my bucket list for a while and now I can’t wait to get to visit there 😀

    Reply
  32. Hor says

    October 17, 2016 at 9:30 am

    I just spent a week in Croatia and I felt in love with Dubrovnik. It is so charming! The city is so white, so pure, so clean… I loved it!

    Reply
  33. Lorelle says

    August 10, 2017 at 12:46 am

    I have not yet been to Croatia. You’re photos look amazing. Thanks for sharing and great to connect. Lorelle 🙂
    https://amindfultravellerblog.wordpress.com/

    Reply
  34. Explorer Whiz says

    April 26, 2018 at 8:58 am

    Great work!

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Photographing Pompeii, Italy - An Ancient City | Longest Bus Rides says:
    March 3, 2018 at 8:44 pm

    […] My favorite part about visiting Pompeii was imagining the day-to-day life of a city in ancient times. This is reflected in my photography style throughout my time in Europe. I am fascinated by both the large, well-maintained buildings and the small, impressively preserved details. I love the contrast of white structures against the blue skies, similar to what I encountered in Dubrovnik, Croatia. […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badgeShow more posts

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

I’m Lauren and I'm on a mission to change the world through the power of food. I am intrigued by the intimate relationship between food, nature, culture and health.

Join me as I journey around the globe sharing local stories about people who grow, create and eat really good food. Read more about Good Food here!

  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Never Miss A Post:

Enter your email to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of all new Global Locavore posts by email!

Popular Posts

Locavore's How To: Preserving Wild Apples

Recommended Partners

Travel Blog Success

Disclosure Policy

This site is open to forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions, and other forms of compensation. I will always disclose whether I am receiving any commissions or products for free or if a trip was sponsored. Any promoted products, services, or other businesses will be ones I have personally used and feel would be beneficial to my readers. I will always give my genuine opinion about a product or service and would never compromise the truth in exchange for payment. Certain links on this website are affiliate or referral links. At no additional cost to you, I will earn a small percentage of the sale if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. Any affiliate programs will be honestly presented and disclosed within the blog post.

Copyright Policy

© 2016 Global Locavore. All rights reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed or otherwise used without expressed written permission from Lauren Bishop. I appreciate sharing on social media very much but please link back to the original post and give proper credit. Pinning is always welcome. Thanks kindly!

Comment Policy

Thank you to everyone who comments on the Global Locavore. I appreciate your participation and feedback immensely. Let's work together to create an engaging, open space where all readers can feel comfortable contributing. While I welcome ideas from all readers, inappropriate comments including those that are derogatory, hateful, or involve solicitations will be deleted. User-generated comments may reflect views that are not endorsed by Global Locavore. Global Locavore is not responsible for the advice, recommendations or links of any user who comments.

Copyright © 2021 · Daily Dish Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in