Dubrovnik, a stunningly intact walled city on the Adriatic Sea coast of southern Croatia, is one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. Known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century, the city attracts millions of tourists annually. While it’s tempting to dive right into everything this historic city has to offer, there are a few things you should avoid to make your visit as enjoyable as possible. Here are some important tips on what NOT to do in Dubrovnik:
#### 1. **Don’t Visit Only for a Day**
Many visitors make the mistake of experiencing Dubrovnik as a day trip, often because they are on cruise ship itineraries. However, Dubrovnik deserves more than just a few hurried hours. Staying at least a couple of nights allows you to explore the city early morning or late evening when the cruise crowds are gone. This is when Dubrovnik’s true charm comes alive without the overwhelming throngs.
#### 2. **Avoid Overpriced Tourist Traps**
The main areas like Stradun, Dubrovnik’s famous main street, are lined with restaurants and cafes that can be quite expensive and not necessarily offer the best quality of Croatian cuisine. Instead, venture out into side streets and smaller squares where locals dine. You’ll find more authentic and reasonably priced options there.
#### 3. **Don’t Ignore Local Etiquette**
Dubrovnik is still home to many locals despite its tourist popularity. Speaking loudly or being disrespectful in sacred places like churches or blocking narrow alleys while taking photos can disrupt daily life and offend residents.
#### 4. **Skip Busy Summer Months if Possible**
Dubrovnik can be extremely crowded during peak season (June through August). The experience can become less enjoyable with overcrowded streets and long queues at major attractions like the City Walls and Sponza Palace. Visiting during shoulder seasons (late spring or early autumn) can provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
#### 5. **Don’t Limit Yourself to Just Old Town**
While the Old Town is undeniably beautiful, there’s much more to see in and around Dubrovnik. Take time to visit nearby locales such as Lokrum Island or take a cable car ride up Mount Srđ for breathtaking views over the coast.
#### 6. **Resist Feeding Pigeons**
While feeding pigeons might seem like an innocuous activity or even an opportunity for fun photo ops, it’s highly discouraged in Dubrovnik (and many other cities). It not only harms local ecosystems but also encourages pests around dining areas and public spaces.
#### 7. **Avoid Littering**
This should go without saying anywhere, but it’s particularly vital in a preserved historical site like Dubrovichk where maintaining cleanliness helps preserve its cultural heritage and beauty for future generations.
#### 8. **Don’t Take Pebbles from Beaches**
It might be tempting to take a “souvenir” from one of Dubrovnik’s beautiful pebble beaches; however, removing stones from natural habitats causes erosion and environmental degradation over time.
### Final Thoughts
Respectful tourism ensures that both visitors and hosts enjoy interactions that promote mutual understanding and appreciation of cultural heritages such as that offered by Dubrovnik—a timeless gem along the Adriatic sea.