Dubrovnik riviera is blessed, even with Croatia's high standards of beauty. The entire country is literally packed with amazing destinations, but it's definitely Dubrovnik which remains one of Southern Europe's greatest coastal cities.
Spending several days in Dubrovnik is totally worth a shot even in the winter. Drama of a winter stormy wind, known as bura, that sweeps into Croatia's southernmost corner is very well known to everybody who has ever visited Dubrovnik between late November and March. Bura brings in extremely dry and cold air as well as clarity and almost blinding sun, which spotlights the genuine beauty of the perfect Baroque Old City. The cobbled streets and all the historical facades look pretty much as they have for centuries. In spring and summer there is much more life all around but wintertime surprisingly brings out the essential magic of all main Dubrovnik sights, the city's logical structure, elegant colours and its free spirit.
When you look at the captivating landscape, it really feels that time stands still here in many ways too: hilltop terracota roofs, sprinkles of vineyards, old olive groves and the infinite Adriatic Sea. Poets, writers and artists have long celebrated the beauty of this place but predominantly during the warmer time of the year. And yet, winter in Dubrovnik has loads of advantages: mostly comfortable temperature, no crowds, and some great events that take place in Dubrovnik from December to February.
The main winter event is indisputably the Feast of St Blaise celebrated on February 3, when locals honour their patron saint. This solemn and colourful winter festival is held in accordance with the centuries-long tradition regardless of the weather conditions. Thanks to the courtesy of the Mediterranean climate, February 3 often turns out lovely, with clear skies and bright sun which enhances the best of the mesmerising heritage site of Dubrovnik.
Facing the eastern entrance to the Old town is the wooded island of Lokrum known for its monastery complex and the network of walled gardens. In the winter during violent storms the massive waves crash against the rocky coastline of Lokrum, making it a much less hospitable place than in the summer.
If you are lucky you might even observe the norotious city walls and the top of mount Srđ covered with some snow which normally goes away the next day. The absolute magical and quite rarely seen view.
Every season in Dubrovnik brings a gift to the eye. Winter, spring, summer or autumn – it makes no difference: the magnificent Dubrovnik remains spectacular and cries out for all outdoor enthusiasts all year round.