Choose from 95 Fun Things to Do in Croatia
Art Pavilion
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Archaeological Museum (Arheoloski Muzej)
Rector's Palace
The elegant Rector’s Palace was built on the site of an old fort near the harbor in Dubrovnik’s Old City.
The Rector was the town’s puppet ruler, set up to project an image of order and importance to the outside world. Elected for only one month, the Rector was not allowed to leave the palace except on official business.
In addition to the Rector’s office and private chambers, the palace was the seat of the minor council and state administration and contained a watch-house, a prison and an armoury.
It was in that armory that a major explosion took place in 1463 destroying much of the Gothic architecture that had only been completed 25 years before by Onofrio di Giordano della Cava of Naples. What we see today is a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles that were added to the building over the years as a result of subsequent explosions and earthquakes.
Today the Rector's palace is the home to the City Museum, which attempts to recreate the original atmosphere of the palace quarters. Here you’ll find the orginal keys to the city, coins minted by the Republic, paintings and coats of arms and a number of important state documents.
You'll find the Rector's Palace between the Town Hall and the Cathedral on Pred Dvorom in the Old City.
Onofrio's Fountain
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Republic Square (Prokurative)
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Orlando's Column
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Croatian National Theatre (HNK)
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Fruit's Square (Trg Brace Radic)
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Bell Tower
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Bacina Lakes
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Pakleni Islands
- All of the islands are car-free, and the only way to get around is on foot or by bicycle.
- Be sure to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection.
- Some ferries and boat tours to the Pakleni Islands are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.
Bacvice Beach
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Benedictine Monastery
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Riva Promenade
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Fort Lovrijenac
Immortalized on-screen as part of the fictional King’s Landing in HBO’s hit fantasy drama, Game of Thrones, Fort Lovrijenac has further cemented its place at the top of tourist itineraries and few views are as breathtaking as looking out over the coastal city from the cliff top ramparts. Built in the 11th century, the fortress was once an impenetrable stronghold, with its 12-meter thick sea walls and infamous 3,000kg bronze ‘Guster’ cannon. An exhausting 175 stone steps lead up to the gateway of Fort Lovrijenac where the entrance is engraved with the poignant inscription ‘Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro’ - ‘Freedom cannot be sold for all the treasures of the world’.
Bene Beach
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Pula Amphitheatre
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Diocletian's Palace
- One of the most magnificent Roman ruins in existence, Diocletian’s Palace is a must for ancient history aficionados.
- Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, water, and sunscreen if exploring during the summer months as it can be hot and humid.
- Some parts of the old town, including the palace’s underground ruins and the Riva seafront promenade, which is bordered by the palace’s southern facade, are wheelchair accessible, though large parts are not.
Franciscan Monastery & Museum
Originally built in a Romanesque-Gothic style in 1337, the Franciscan Monastery was one of the few buildings to retain some of its original architecture after the 1667 earthquake.
Among its earliest surviving features is the south door, designed in 1499 in a Venetian Gothic style and featuring a beautiful carving (Pieta). Considered to be its piece de resistance, however, are the late Romanesque cloisters and their double columns topped with animal, human and plant carvings (capitals). Other original features include a 15th-century marble pulpit, bell tower and fountain.
The Franciscan Monastery also contains an unmissable pharmacy (1317) and a museum. Believed to be the oldest working pharmacy in Europe, you can see original laboratory instruments, mortars and jars on display here.
The museum contains more fascinating 14th century pharmacy equipment, a well-stocked library and precious religious art and artifacts belonging to the Franciscan order.
The Franciscan Monastery and Museum is accessed via a narrow passage from St. Savior's Church on the Placa (Stradun).
Mljet Island
- Mljet National Park is a must-see attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven paths.
- Don’t forget your swimsuit, as the lakes are ideal for swimming.
- Although the forested park provides plenty of shade, you’ll still want to pack sunscreen and a hat.
- Make sure to travel with coins, as the park’s public restrooms require a fee.