Villa Emaline

Villa Emaline feels private and secluded, with nothing but cypress trees standing in between you and the Adriatic. Views stretch out over the island Lokrum and the centuries old Dubrovnik walls, hinting to the breath-taking places and scenery you can visit during your stay.
Dubrovnik is a spectacular holiday destination. The ancient walled city offers mesmerising scenery and buildings, and the surrounding area enjoys natural charms, gorgeous beaches, an excellent array of water sports, and boat trips and beautiful, ancient villages and towns to visit.

Dubrovnik Old Town is renowned for its character and charm, with its medieval town sheltered by ancient city walls and steeped in history. The best time to walk around the city wall is either early or late in the day though as the queues are long and can be very hot. The Stradun, the city’s main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, cafes, and stalls inside the walls. Chic boutiques and stylish bars rub shoulders with ancient palaces, monasteries, churches and medieval houses. You will marvel at how the light changes on these ancient buildings. Much of the city’s Renaissance architecture was wiped out in the 1667 earthquake though some examples left, including St Saviour Church. It would be best to visit the Franciscan Monastery with one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. There is a fantastic atmosphere in the charming, bustling marina and port where you can take boat trips to various islands and Montenegro. The port is also brimming with fabulous fish restaurants soaking up the sunlight and guests enjoying cocktails. There are three entrances to the walled city, including Pile, the main gate, Ploca by the port and Buze between the two. Buze Gate will take you in via steep staircases. Once you have finished looking at the churches, palaces and monasteries, you can take the cable car up to reach Mt Srd, which is the best place to enjoy stunning views of this iconic Old Town. You will also enjoy sensational views of the expansive coastline and the beautiful mountains in the distance.

Dubrovnik offers an assortment of beaches, most pebbly like Banje Beach just below the walls of the Old Town. It enjoys sheltered bathing, seafront bars and cafes and a complete line-up of watersports. You can take boat trips over to the islands of Dubrovnik’s Adriatic Riviera for some lovely secluded sandy coves. It only takes 15 minutes to reach Lokrum Island by boat from the port. Lokrum is a pine-clad island buzzing with wildlife and full of walking paths, a botanical garden and the ruins of an old Benedictine monastery.

The beautiful Arboretum Trsteno is not far from the villa and is worth visiting. It is the oldest renaissance garden in Dalmatia. It developed from a park surrounding the summer residence of the Gucetic-Gozze family and existed as far back as 1492. The gardens are stunning with Japanese banana trees, bougainvillaea, evergreen magnolia, many types of cactus and other exotic plants. It also includes many old stone sculptures and has been used to film Game of Thrones.

Read more about Dubrovnik City

Dubrovnik's Old Town, a captivating and well-preserved city on the southern coast of Croatia, is a place that effortlessly transports you through time. This historic walled city, with its timeless beauty and rich heritage, offers a unique blend of history and culture that will captivate your heart.

Enclosed within the formidable stone walls, Dubrovnik's Old Town is an architectural masterpiece that has endured for centuries. This medieval gem has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from its origins as the Republic of Ragusa to its present-day status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entering the city through the imposing Pile Gate, you step into a world where every cobblestone has a story to tell. The limestone-paved Stradun, the main street, stretches out before you, flanked by elegant baroque buildings that house a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The harmonious blend of architectural styles creates an atmosphere of timeless splendour.

Visiting the Old Town's marketplaces is a great way to immerse yourself in the city, and a perfect opportunity to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious pastries. You can savour traditional Croatian ice cream or indulge in some local sweets and delicacies. Don't forget to try the traditional Dubrovnik cake, Rožata, which is a real treat for the taste buds!

One of the city's famous historical highlights is the Rector's Palace, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance structure that was the seat of power during the days of the Republic. Today, it houses a museum that offers a window into the city's history. Another architectural gem to check out is the Sponza Palace, a former 16th century customs house and mint that is a testament to the city's prosperity, with its elegant blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

For those interested in the city's spiritual and artistic side, the Dominican Monastery is a quiet sanctuary that showcases both. The monastery's cloister is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, and the museum boasts a rich collection of art and historical artefacts, offering a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.

If you’re seeking a bit of outdoor fun, then a trip to Banje Beach is a must for your itinerary! This pebble beach is within walking distance from the Old Town and boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Families can enjoy a spot of snorkelling, or even a boat ride to explore nearby islands.

Copacabana Beach makes for a great day excursion from Dubrovnik's Old Town. Renowned as one of the city's finest coastal destinations, Copacabana is an ideal spot for those seeking a stylish sunbathing and swimming experience. Copacabana's beach bars are celebrated for offering some of Croatia's finest wines, which you can savour while enjoying a refreshing seaside massage. This family-friendly beach also caters to active adventurers, providing opportunities for paddle-boarding, various water-sports, and inflatable fun.

Dubrovnik Old Town invites visitors to experience the vibrant culture within its historic city walls. Its rich culture, stunning architecture, and warm atmosphere make it a timeless Mediterranean treasure that continues to capture the hearts of travellers from around the world. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, savouring local, home-made cuisine, or embarking on family adventures, Dubrovnik Old Town offers an unforgettable experience.