Cavtat, Croatia
Wine Bar Banac Cavtat - beautiful villa wine bar with views
Hacking Dubrovnik (based on my fresh experience)
1. Stay in Cavtat — a small coastal town just 30 minutes from Dubrovnik. Accommodation is cheaper, there are no crowds, and the beaches are crystal clear. Great for a more relaxed vibe and also some light hiking around the peninsula.
2. Use the bus, not the sea taxi. The bus N10 from Cavtat to Dubrovnik port costs only €4.5 (compared to €15–20 for the boat) and runs every 30 minutes. It’s comfortable, air-conditioned, and passes by the Old Town.
3. Dubrovnik Pass. If you plan to visit several museums and city walls, the Dubrovnik Pass saves money and lets you skip some queues. Check online for options (1-day, 3-day, 7-day).
4. Island trips: Jadrolinija ferries. A ferry ride to the Elaphiti Islands (such as Lopud) costs about €13 roundway. Lopud Island is ideal for nature lovers, with forest paths, car-free streets, and beautiful beaches (including sandy ones, which are rare here).
5. Nudist beaches: There are two on Lopud Island (one rocky and one sandy). I finded one more in Cavtat, below Hotel Croatia. Clean, quiet, and great for those who prefer a more natural experience.
6. Restaurants: Taj Mahal is a must for Bosnian cuisine (don’t let the name confuse you — it’s not Indian). The location outside Old Town is less touristy, and reservations are easier to get.
7. Beer: For craft beer fans, visit Dubrovnik Beer Company (DBC). A great selection of local brews and a laid-back atmosphere, located near the port — perfect after a day of exploring.
8. Groceries: Konzum supermarket. A good selection of local products: pršut (Dalmatian dry-cured ham), Croatian wines, seafood, olive oil, cheeses. One large Konzum is right near the port and bus station — perfect for stocking up before day trips.
9. Buy sunscreen at DM or bring your own. Prices for SPF products in tourist areas can be 3x higher than in DM. Stock up early to save money.
10. Extra tip: If visiting Old Town, go early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid cruise ship crowds. Sunrise and sunset walks along the walls are unforgettable.