After waking up in the Lapad region of Dubrovnik, overlooking the tranquil turquoise Lapad Beach, I instantly realized I was in one of the most beautiful places in Europe. I quickly gathered my things for the day and took public transport into the center of Dubrovnik. Before it got too hot, I headed up in the Zicara cable car to get the best panorama views of Dubrovnik as the city slowly started to come to life. At the top, I got incredible views of Dubrovnik, Old Town, and Lokrum Island. The views stretched from Cavtat to the Elafiti Islands. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best views of the Adriatic coastline.

After exploring the desert-like terrain high above Dubrovnik, I headed down the dry mountain to explore within Dubrovnik’s Old Town, otherwise known as the walled city (or Kings Landing if you are into the T.V series Game of Thrones). Upon entering the East city gates and across the draw bridge (Pile Gate) of the city, I arrived at the city’s Old Port. The shallow clear water in the port shimmered as I walked around on the boardwalk along the port in awe of the different shades of turquoise in the bay. The small, vibrant, and colourful traditional fishing boats tied up at the dock added so much character to the port as if I went back in time. Boats entered and exited the port while carrying passengers and goods traveling to and from the Old City.

From the port, I could see Dubrovnik’s quaint and busy beach from a distance. Locals and visitors sat on the edge of the pier while splashing their legs in the cool water to get relief under the scalding midday sun. Further into the city, I found the iconic cliff jumping spot high up on the rocks along the city outer walls. Walking the narrow streets and down the steep stairs along the side alleys lead me to open plazas laden with market stalls and bakeries. Each corner of the old city had important historical buildings including St. Saviour Church, Orlando’s Column, Big Onofrio’s fountain, bell tower, and St. Blaise Church. The main straudun street placa was lined with shops selling an assortment of souvenirs and handicrafts, yet few stores were certified Croatian-made. As the day went on, the city filled with energetic visitors who all wanted a piece of Dubrovnik.

People from all over the world flock to the popular city whether to see Kings Landing, the historical City, the walls, or better yet, the surrounding turquoise water. Each time the clock struck twelve, the temperature in the city rose. The turquoise water was too  much of a temptation to resist. After I had seen all of the Old City, I quickly headed back to Uvala Sumratin Bay to spend the rest of the afternoon swimming in the Adriatic waters of Dubrovnik’s Lapad region. What a perfect end to the perfect day. Who could ask for more than this? Beaches and history is the perfect combination. Croatia has my heart now.