When planning a break that involves sunshine and historic attractions you should give serious consideration to booking villas in Dubrovnik.
The Croatian city may not be as well known as a tourist destination for Britons as many locations in Spain, Italy and France, but that is set to change over the next few years. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik offers beautiful beaches, water sports and as many historic sights as you could hope to pack into any holiday.
Its best-known features are the Old City and fortified walls, which have survived earthquakes and years of conflict relatively intact and have now been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site accreditation. Many of the old buildings and parts of the ramparts are the best examples of their type to be found in Europe and offer a real insight into the city’s past.
There is believed to have been a settlement on the site since the 7th century, but it did not become an important city until the formation of the Republic of Ragusa in 1358. The wealth generated from its subsequent status as a busy trading port helped to fund many of the attractions visitors to the Old City now enjoy.
One of the best starting points when exploring Villen in Kroatien Dubrovnik is a stroll on the city walls. They are 22 metres high in places and will provide you with some of the most memorable views you will see during villa holidays in Croatia.
Your walk around the ramparts will take you to the forts of St John’s and Minceta, and 16 lookout towers dotted around the city.
You will have to buy a ticket to gain access to the walls, but it also includes entry to the imposing Lovrjenac coastal fort that once helped to protect Dubrovnik from Venetian forces.
After observing the Old City from above, drop down on to the squares and narrow streets to see some of the buildings close up. You will find fascinating sights on every corner in this part of Dubrovnik, including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, the Onofrio Fountain, a statue of the poet Ivan Gundilic, an impressive bell tower and former government buildings, such as the city guard house and Major Council Palace.
Of course, Dubrovnik also has plenty of natural attractions, including some of the best beaches in Croatia, where you can take part in water sports or round off your holiday by relaxing in the sun.