Dubrovnik is just stunning, but don’t just take my word for it. “Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik” said George Bernard Shaw when he visited, for Lord Byron the city was the “pearl of the Adriatic”.

The city has been attracting holidaymakers for centuries, but if you visit outside the high season the old town still feels refreshingly lacking in crowds. Here are a few fantastic things to do in Dubrovnik if you are lucky enough to be spending some time there.

1)      Walk the city walls. With stunning views of the rooftops of the city, the harbour and out to sea, this is without a doubt one of my favourite things to do in Dubrovnik. As well as getting an eagle eye view of daily life in the city you can also spot some of the best bars in town from the Dubrovnik city walls. Look out when you are walking along the sea wall stretch and you will certainly find some intimate little spot where you can spend an afternoon.

2)      Stay in a renaissance palace. If you want to treat yourself on holiday then Dubrovnik certainly feels like the right place to do it. Hotel Kazbek is located 3 km outside the old town on the bay of Gruz. It started life in the 16^th century as a nobleman’s summer residence and is part villa and part castle. Recently renovated to create a stunning boutique hotel this is a perfect place to base yourself.

3)      Marvel at the ornamental sculpture of the 15th century Rector’s Palace. The gothic renaissance building is one of the most significant in Dubrovnik and stands on the site of an older fort which was destroyed by fire. Once the seat of the elected rulers of Dubrovnik, the Rector’s Palace is now a museum which is well worth visiting.

4)      Take a night time stroll around the old town. The narrow and winding alleyways of the old town are gorgeous at any time of day, but the white marble buildings do tend to look their best in the moonlight. The old town definitely comes to life in the evenings too with plenty of bars and restaurants to quench your thirst and satisfy your appetite!

5)      Explore the Dubrovnik Riviera. It might seem obvious but do make sure you leave the city and explore the surrounding area during your stay. The ‘Dubrovnik Riviera’ stretches south of the city all the way to the border with Montenegro. One place not to be missed is the delightful historical town of Cavtat. Close to Dubrovnik airport, Cavtat is a great place to organise car hire in Croatia, but there is so much more to the town than that. The Epidaurus Festival which runs from now until the 24^th of September is primarily a music festival but also includes theatre, literature and poetry is one of the main cultural highlights for the year. One of the best rated places to stay in Cavtat is Bacan Serviced Apartments, they have consistently impeccable reviews and are a good starting point for anyone looking for accommodation in town.