Dubrovnik Hotels
RECOMMENDED HOTELS
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Described by Byron as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik sits on the edge of Europe's cultural frontier with the East providing a fascinating glimpse into cultures from both sides of the world, from ancient times to modern. Reminiscent of Venice surrounded by walls, stunning architecture and cobbled streets, Dubrovnik attracts visitors looking for luxurious summer holidays on the many beaches as well as those who wish to delve into the country's cultural history. With plenty of island hopping opportunities, hiking in the mountains, water sports, lovely old shops and a plethora or restaurants and cafes Dubrovnik is an all round tourist destination. The city's long history and economy is mainly based on its maritime trade and in its heyday in the 15th and 16th centuries became one of the only cities to rival Venice with its remarkable level of development. It became the center of Croatia's culture instrumental in the development of the Croatian language and literature and was home to many notable poets, artists, authors as well as many other scholars. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667 which flattened much of the ancient city, and suffering much damage during the county's civil war in the late 20th century, Dubrovnik still boasts fabulous Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings and remains one of the most beautiful towns in the Mediterranean. The Dubrovnik international airport is only about 20km from the center of town and buses and taxis provided easy access to Dubronvik hotels. A stunning alternative to reach the city is for guests to drive along the coastal road through beautiful scenery, quaint villages and many other tourist attractions. Cruise ships, too, dock just to the north of the city while ferries to and from Italy and the north coast also provide an interesting way to access the city. The best time for visitors to book into a Dubrovnik hotel is from the early spring to late autumn. The lovely warm, summer days characteristic of the Mediterranean climate, makes these three seasons perfect to explore all the wonders of this ancient city. Winters on the other hand, although relatively mild are accompanied by strong cold Bura winds blowing down the Adriatic coast with plenty of thundershowers. Dubrovnik hotels are perfectly located providing easy access to the city center and the fascinating Old Town with its stone-walled and red-tiled roof buildings. With plenty of budget hotels, mid-range and some of Europe's most luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone. Guests can step straight out of a hotel onto one of the sandy, tree-lined beaches or be conveniently placed in the Old City or close to the city walls. Many guest rooms include spacious balconies that provide stunning views over the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands or across the city rooftops. Guest amenities and facilities are determined by the number of stars of the hotel but luxurious four and five star hotels all include lovely Mediterranean-style décor with vibrant splashes of color and queen-sized beds with warm duvets and fine linen. The fabulous Excelsior Hotel and Spa has been the destination of the rich and famous for decades and provides personal touches and flawless service. Special events-rooms are perfect for romantic weddings or meetings while the luxurious spas are perfect for guests to relax and unwind. Tourist attractions abound throughout the city and a favored activity for guests to any Dubrovnik hotel is to walk the 2km city walls. Other attractions not to be missed include the Fortress Lovrijenac, the Old quarantine hospital of Lazareti which today is a cultural center and the fortress and large cross on Mount Srd which also provides a great view of the city and coastline. Museums, art galleries, magnificent frescoes in churches, famous statues and bell towers, not to mention the array of cafes on popular beaches will keep guests busy from morning till night. Many visitors flock to the city and book into Dubrovnik hotels to enjoy the annual two-month long Dubrovnik Summer Festival with all its plays, games and concerts. The annual feast-day holiday for the city's patron saint includes ceremonious Masses, parades and festivities that last days. The Old Town, a UNSECO Heritage site is completely pedestrianized and here guests can buy handmade products from local artisans as well as hand-made creams and other toiletries based on ancient recipes. Dubrovnik hotels also provide an ideal platform to explore the surrounding islands and countryside around this famous port-city. A trip to the Elephanti Islands to swim, fish and relax, wine tasting in the peninsular or a visit to neighboring towns of Kotor and Persat in Montenegro or Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina add another dimension to an already fascinating destination. Dubrovnik hotels are plenty and varied and provide a wonderful glimpse into the city's ancient past while providing all the modern conveniences required for today's tourist. It is no wonder that in 1929 George Bernard Shaw said "If you want to see heaven on earth, come to Dubrovnik." Dubrovnik hotels ensure that all guests, both those on a budget and those looking for luxury accommodation have the opportunity to come and discover this spectacular "heaven on earth". |
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