Croatia, with its golden beaches, idyllic islands, and picturesque national parks, is a popular holiday destination. However, one bustling hotspot has just been named the ‘safest city in Europe’, making it an even more attractive option for travellers.
Dubrovnik has become a must-visit holiday hotspot in recent years, particularly after featuring as a filming location for the hit TV show Game of Thrones. The series showcased the city’s stunning Old Town, cobbled streets, and unparalleled coastal views, sparking interest among adventurous travellers.
Today, Dubrovnik is a favourite among tourists who book city breaks to explore the historic City Walls, unwind on the local beaches, and enjoy the city’s popular restaurants, bars, and shops.
The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is undoubtedly the highlight. It boasts fairytale-like streets lined with unique boutiques, impressive fortresses, and striking Baroque churches.
The City Walls that encircle the Old Town are also worth exploring, with numerous walking tours available for those interested in learning about the city’s intriguing history.
Game of Thrones fans can also find a host of guided walks that take them through some of the filming locations for the show, including the sites used to depict King’s Landing, the infamous Purple Wedding, and more.
One location that history enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook is Rector’s Palace; it features elaborate Gothic design and doubles as a museum filled with captivating displays and stunning artworks.
Should you wish to discover the area, you’ll require approximately two to three days for a packed schedule, though it’s worthwhile adding an additional day or two if you fancy unwinding at places like Banje Beach, a pebbled coastline renowned for its magnificent city vistas and crystal-clear ocean waters.
The Croatian destination is already popular amongst Britons, but there’s now another compelling reason why it deserves your attention, as travel specialists at Rivera Travel have declared it ‘Europe’s safest city’.
They stated: “Landing the top spot as Europe’s safest destination, Dubrovnik’s minimal crime levels and very low increase in crime rates earn it a 44.14 safety score. With an 8.76 score from Numbeo for its crime level, indicating a ‘very low’ amount, and a ‘low’ 35.38 for crime increase in the past five years, the Croatian city ranks as the safest in Europe.
“This UNESCO World Heritage gem, famously known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, offers visitors complete confidence walking through medieval streets and along pristine city walls. The city’s well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture creates a living museum where history comes alive. Visitors can feel assured when strolling through this charming city that they are in an incredibly safe location, allowing them to relax and enjoy what Dubrovnik offers.”
For those looking to explore further afield, consider a boat trip to the nearby island of Lokrum or take the cable car up to Mount Srd for breathtaking views of the city and coast (though be prepared for crowds at sunset). If you’re keen on ticking off Split and Krka National Park with its stunning waterfalls from your bucket list, the simplest route from Dubrovnik is by car – but bear in mind it’s roughly a three-hour drive.