At midday, church bells echo through Dubrovnik old town. Chic women click-clack down cobbled alleyways. The city’s charisma is intoxicating, full of rich history and tragedy. But much has changed over the last decade or so. The creative spirit that people of Dubrovnik fought to preserve is very much in evidence these days. Cafes, boutiques and restaurants have sprouted among buildings in myriad styles.

SATURDAY
10:30AM Dubrovnik Old Town Tour
During the winter season, the Dubrovnik Tourist Board organizes a FREE Saturday guided sightseeing tour around Dubrovnik old town in English, beginning at Pile Tourist Information Centre and lasted for an hour and a half, ending on Luža Square. Sign up by 6PM Friday by email here.

11AM Gundulićeva Poljana
A great way to take a break while on the tour in Dubrovnik old town is at Gundulic Square’s vibrant market. Fruits, vegetables, flowers and crafts are all sold here in this traditional and friendly setting. Also worth visiting here is the statue of the square’s namesake, the acclaimed 17th century poet, Ivan Gundulić. Make sure to pick up Dubrovnik’s traditional delicacy called arancini (candied orange peels.)

12PM Linđo Folklore Ensemble
Enjoyed a dazzling folklore dance performance of the Linđo ensemble in the heart of Dubrovnik old town in the Sloboda Cinema. The Folklore ensemble Linđo was founded in 1964 to promote traditional dances and songs of the Republic of Croatia. Linđo first started performing a year later, in 1965 and by today became a brand name when speaking of tourism in the city of Dubrovnik. Linđo itself is the most popular dance of the Dubrovnik coastal region and has been danced in the same manner for over 200 years. The dance is accompanied by the lijerica, an old South Dalmatian instrument with three strings, which came from the Eastern Mediterranean and Greece in late 18th century.

1PM Croatian Lunch
No one is ambivalent about Croatia’s rich food. For many, ćevapi (che-VAHP-ee) — beef sausages served with onions and french fries — reigns supreme. At Konoba Rhea Silvia I, prepare to order in increments of five. Complete your lunch at Razonoda, part of Pucić Palace, with Chemex coffee from the world-renowned Eli’s Caffe in Zagreb.

8PM Coffee Talk
Cafe Festival is located on one of the most beautiful streets in the whole world, Stradun. This sidewalk cafe is perfect for two of Croatia’s favorite pastimes: drinking coffee and people watching. There’s no better place than Cafe Festival near the Franciscan monastery.

SUNDAY
10:30AM Brunch
Chihuahua Cantina Mexicana serves up “Mexican” food. For the price (enchiladas, tacos, fajitas and burritos in the 50kn range), it’s an easy option for families. The staff was friendly, and you must remember that you aren’t near Mexico, so keep you expectation low and you’ll leave here fulfilled. 🙂

There are even more things to do in Dubrovnik, so I have begun planning my trip back in 2015. I didn’t check out the Rector’s Palace or any of the monasteries. I didn’t go to a classical concert, and I missed the cable car. You should consider making a stop to visit the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” You won’t regret it.