If you are planning to visit Dubrovnik, you’re not alone. From June to September, Dubrovnik’s population swells with tourists. The beautiful walled city is a huge draw and gained popularity as a filming location for Game of Thrones. That said, there is so much more to this incredible city on the Adriatic away from the crowds. Here are seven tips for experiencing Dubrovnik like a local.
Visit the Gruž Market
First up on this list of tips for experiencing Dubrovnik like a local is visiting Gruž Market. This is where local restaurants source all their fresh produce. The market is near the main ferry terminal and will give you a feel for local life. If you are there on a Friday, you will also be able to buy fresh seafood from the Elaphiti Islands.
See a Movie at the Open-air Cinemas
While seeing a movie on your vacation might not be at the top of your list, visiting the open-air cinemas of Dubrovnik is a whole experience all on its own. Most of these cinemas are tucked away in quiet parts of town, and show popular films all summer. If you are staying in town, the Jadran is the best option as it provides an old-school feel. Most of the movies shown have English subtitles.
Visit the Orsan Yacht Club
The Orsan Yacht Club is not like other yacht clubs as it is open to everyone. This yacht club sits on the Lapad seafront and faces the Konzum store on the opposite bank. Once you are done with the yacht club, you can visit the Orsan restaurant, where you get to enjoy fresh fish. This is a regular spot for locals and not many foreigners venture here. This area is well-liked as it is one that has cheap parking in Dubrovnik.
Sveti Jakov
Most tourists visit the city beach of Benje but the locals visit the eastern outskirts to the shores of Sveti Jakov. If you are looking for mesmerizing sunsets and a place without any crowds, this is the perfect place. Sveti Jakov also has a restaurant and a small bar. If you stand in the right spot, you can see Dubrovnik on the horizon.
- READ MORE: Exploring Dubrovnik Beyond The City Walls
Enjoy Some Music at Lazareti
Next up on this list of tips for experiencing Dubrovnik like a local is Lazareti, a must-visit destination for those who love the clubbing scene and live music. The Lazareti hosts many local acts, and if the music gets too loud, you can always walk out onto the complex, which overlooks the sea.
See Some Performances at the Marin Držić Theatre
Although Croatian renaissance drama is not for everyone, the Marin Držić Theatre is the one place you can get to experience such mesmerizing performances. Built in 1865, the theatre and features paintings of Vlaho Bukovac, a very important local artist. It is also possible to catch Shakespeare and Chekhov performances, which play regularly.
Eat at Kamenice
Kamenice is located in a prime area of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and has remained much cheaper than other restaurants around it. It remains one of the places you can get truly authentic Croatian dishes. To get a sense of just how local Kamenice is, it does not have a website and has very few dishes with English names. It’s a prime spot for shellfish and squid.
Dubrovnik is an interesting town that has aspects of modern life and areas that have not changed over the decades. The best way to experience it as the locals do is to not follow the tourists and instead get a local to show you its hidden gems.
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