Dubrovnik: The Old City and City Walls

By far the biggest attraction in Dubrovnik is the old city, where you will undoubtedly be spending most of your time. The main street, Stradun (literally means: street), is lined with shops and cafes and tourists of all ages as Dubrovnik is clearly a popular choice for European and American families in the summer. No shortage of prams here, despite the cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways. We preferred to dine in the squares so Karam could play around on the fountains and steps with other kids but the side streets house treasures such as Jiardinia where you can pick up a Mediterranean coral bracelet for your baby and Aqua ( an exclusively HR brand with cute t-shirts and knick knacks for kids), and restaurants like Proto for an upscale seafood meal or Taj Mahal for authentic Bosnian cuisine.

Pizzas, sandwiches and pastas abound so food is not a big problem for the fussy eaters. Despite the crowds and small streets, the people and places are child-friendly with many of the larger restaurants providing high chairs and kids’ menus. Keep in mind though that the buildings are old and the bathrooms are small and not very well- equipped so a change table will be a tall order. That being said, this is Europe! Any old step or street corner will do, as long as you dispose of the waste properly!

Interspersed between ancient engravings and historic statues is international stores like Havaianas carrying a full range of kids’ flip flops, and Diesel!

If you are a history buff, I recommend taking one of the city walking tours- they are one hour long, interesting and relatively pram-friendly.

If you are traveling In the summer, try to make it out during the seven week Dubrovnik Summer Festival when concerts and street parties illuminate the old city.Well worth getting a babysitter for.

The city walls is another must-do but leave your stroller behind and baby bjorn your child. Approximately 2km long with 700 steps, the wall has two starting points so you can exit half way if you need to but if you take your time, it’s totally manageable and well worth the effort. Along the way, you will find a juice stand and cafes to replenish your depleting water and snack stocks Best to do it in the mornings or evenings (last entrance is 7:30pm in the summer). Costs 70 kuna/ head.