Leaving London open-minded, I was blown away by what Dubrovnik had to offer and could not recommend it more for a long weekend. It’s not often you come across a city that looks as if it has been left completely untouched since the 13th Century, not a hi-rise or a McDonalds in sight!

It is hard to believe that Dubrovnik was reeling under heavy shellfire only 19 years ago. After skilled restoration work to replace the bullet-spattered tiled rooftops and marble streets, it is back to its former glory and definitely up there for the top 10 City breaks! If you’re in seek of medieval charm and fascinating history with evenings spent in lively restaurants and chic bars overlooking the sparkling Adriatic coastline, this Croatian city is the place to be…

We stayed in an apartment within the City walls, which overlooked the City's stunning, terracotta rooftops and grey stone buildings, run by a chap called Srdan.  Srdan met us and carried our bags all the way up the cobbled steep steps between the local houses, street cafes and restaurants, at an effortless pace. Whereas mum and I were nearly on our knees following behind thinking how on earth are we going to remember the way back down! I am not exaggerating when I say there must have been 1000 steps to our apartment. It took some negotiating to climb coming home of an evening, especially after we quickly took a liking to the local Croatian red!

The City is relatively small, it is easy to walk from one end to the other in no time at all. It’s the actual exploring of the fascinating Old Town that will keep you more than occupied for a number of days. The day we arrived we walked the great 'City Wall', which is a must. It meanders round the City at a great height with incredible views of the crystal blue Adriatic Sea on the right and the City to the left. The wall was originally constructed in the 10th Century and is 6m think in places.

The early 18th Century Dubrovnik Cathedral is also worth a peek, it’s fascinating as it houses a rich treasury of relics and paintings, including Titian’s 1552 The Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

Dubrovnik is also a great base to explore the many islands dotted round the coastline. We took a day boat trip which was fantastic and a definite must! Setting off at 9:00am and stopping at three of the islands with lunch on board, unbeatable  freshly caught fish and even more local wine and music.  Returning in time for a sundowner at the port where we gazed out at all the activity going on around us… 

Overall a thoroughly great trip; gorgeous weather, warm welcoming people, amazing fresh fish and copious amounts of Croatian wine.  With a wonderfully intriguing heritage and culture mixed in! What more could anyone wish for in a weekend break!

Thoroughly recommend!

Verity C