As we catch the last of the official summer and move into Autumn, you’ll be surprised to know that Dubrovnik typically experiences good summery weather right the way through September and sometimes into early October.
The best part is the tourist numbers at this time of year have dramatically reduced so you can get a more personal experience of this spectacular city. The big question is “What are the best things to do in late summer in Dubrovnik?” Clearly exploring the UNESCO-listed old town and walking the walls is a must, but when the azure Adriatic is a little to cold for swimming what else is there?
The good news is there is a plethora of activities and experiences to keep you busy. Here is a little taste:
Head to the Top of Dubrovnik – Mount Srd
If you want the best panoramic views of Dubrovnik than Mount Srd is your destination. To say it’s breathtaking is an understatement. Mount Srd is 415m above sea level and gives you stunning views out over the Adriatic Sea, Lokrum, and the Elaphiti islands. You can ascend Mount Srd via cable car which is a pleasant ride and allows you to take in the scenery with little effort. But if you’re like me and like to work for your reward then why not hike up the mountain. The hole will take you about an hour depending on your fitness levels. If that seems like to much, you can take a one-way ticket up the Mountain with the cable car and descend the mountain which is somewhat easier.
Visit a Dubrovnik Renaissance Garden – Arboretum Trsteno
With a history that goes back to the 15th century, the 25 hectare Arboretum was the summer residence of the Gučetić-Gozze family who had captains collect seeds and plant specimens from around the globe. Here you’ll find beautiful gardens, an aqueduct, mill, Neptune water fountain, views out of the Elaphiti Islands from the Belvedere Pavilion. While exploring the gardens be sure to see the two Oriental Planes located in the central market place of Trsteno. They are over 500 years old and are both about 45/60 m tall and their trunks are 5 m in diameter. The place is truly unique in Croatia and gives you a glimpse into the past. The Arboretum also happens to be one of the Game of Thrones filming location in season’s 3 & 4.
Walk the Walls in Ston
The city of Dubrovnik’s walls are world famous, but if you head to the towns of Ston and Mali Ston on the Pelješac peninsula, you’ll find the impressive walls of Ston. Originally built by the Republic of Ragusa, the walls were 7km (5.5km today) long and built to protect the profitable salt pans of Ston. The walls are the longest in Europe and when you see them for the first time you be shocked at their size. Today you can visit all year round and walk the walls for yourself. While in Mali Ston be sure to try some of the local oysters which in my biased opinion, are the best in the world.
If you want find out more things to do in late summer in Dubrovnik read our Things To Do In Dubrovnik guide.
