Dubrovnik, Croatia, November 2023

At the end of November and beginning of December 2023, I set off on a Balkan adventure, making the most of my holiday in Europe. After transferring from Lisbon to Dubrovnik via Frankfurt and Zagreb, I arrived in the breathtaking coastal city of Dubrovnik, where I would spend the next few days exploring its rich history, stunning landscapes, and the pre-Christmas atmosphere.
 
Dubrovnik – The Pearl of the Adriatic
 
Dubrovnik is a city that impresses at first sight. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, its medieval walls, red-tiled rooftops, and marble streets exude an almost timeless charm. Staying in a beautiful apart-hotel in the centre of the city made it easy to fully immerse myself in its unique atmosphere.
 
Walking through the Old Town, I admired the Baroque and Gothic architecture, the narrow alleyways, and the historic churches that make Dubrovnik so special. The Stradun, the city’s main street, was particularly beautiful, with its polished stone reflecting the warm glow of streetlights in the evening. The early December air was crisp, but the city was alive with a festive atmosphere, as the first Christmas decorations began appearing in the squares and shops.
 
A highlight was walking along the ancient city walls, which offered breathtaking views of the Adriatic and the surrounding islands. The contrast between the deep blue sea and the warm stone of Dubrovnik’s fortifications was stunning. From Lovrijenac Fortress, I had a spectacular view of the city, imagining the centuries of history that unfolded in this very spot.
 
Brijesta and the Border with Bosnia and Herzegovina
 
One of my first excursions from Dubrovnik took me to Brijesta, a peaceful coastal area known for its scenic views and quiet atmosphere. From there, I crossed into Bosnia and Herzegovina via Čapljina, a small town near the Neretva River.
 
Kravice Waterfalls – A Hidden Natural Wonder
 
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, I visited the Kravice Waterfalls, one of the country’s most breathtaking natural sights. Nestled in a dense forest, the waterfalls cascade down limestone cliffs, creating a stunning turquoise pool. Even in the cooler months, the place had a magical beauty, and the sound of rushing water was incredibly soothing. It was a reminder of the untamed beauty of the Balkans.
 
Mostar – Where East Meets West
 
Mostar is a city that feels like a bridge between two worlds—a place where Ottoman and European influences merge into something truly unique. Walking through its historic streets, I was struck by the contrast between old and new, a city that has endured so much history yet continues to thrive.
 
The Stari Most (Old Bridge), an iconic Ottoman-era structure spanning the Neretva River, was the highlight of my visit. This bridge, which was destroyed during the war and later rebuilt, symbolises resilience and reconciliation. Watching the reflection of the bridge in the emerald-green waters below was mesmerising.
 
The Old Bazaar, with its cobblestone paths and market stalls, was a delight to explore. I wandered through shops selling traditional crafts, handwoven carpets, and Bosnian coffee sets. The influence of the Ottoman Empire was visible everywhere, from the mosques to the aroma of freshly brewed Bosnian coffee drifting through the streets.
 
Počitelj – A Medieval Gem
 
On my way back to Dubrovnik, I passed through Počitelj, a small medieval village perched on a hillside. The village is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, including the impressive fortress and a stunning 16th-century mosque. Walking through Počitelj felt like stepping into a fairy tale, with its stone houses blending into the rocky landscape.
 
Ston and the Sunset in Podimoć
 
Back in Croatia, I visited Ston, a town famous for its imposing medieval walls and oyster farms. The Ston Walls, often called the “European Great Wall,” stretch for over 5 kilometres, making them one of the longest fortifications in Europe.
 
Later, I witnessed a breathtaking sunset in Podimoć, where the sky turned shades of orange and pink, reflecting beautifully over the landscape.
 
Crossing into Montenegro – Perast and Kotor
 
Another highlight of my trip was crossing the Karasovići border into Montenegro, a country known for its stunning coastal landscapes.
• Perast was my first stop, a quiet, picturesque town with Venetian-style buildings and breathtaking sea views. The town felt almost frozen in time, and its charm lay in its elegant simplicity. From Perast, I could see the famous Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island church in the Bay of Kotor, said to have been built by sailors who placed a rock in the water every time they returned from a voyage.
• Kotor – The Jewel of Montenegro
Kotor, with its dramatic setting between the mountains and the sea, was simply breathtaking. The Old Town is a labyrinth of stone streets, hidden squares, and ancient churches, all surrounded by impressive fortifications. As I climbed up the city walls, I was rewarded with one of the most spectacular views I had ever seen—the entire Bay of Kotor, stretching out beneath me.
Kotor has a deep maritime history, and its blend of Venetian, Byzantine, and Slavic influences makes it one of the most unique places in the Adriatic region. I spent time wandering through its quaint streets, stopping at charming cafes, and simply soaking in the city’s timeless beauty.
 
A Trip to Remember
 
After an incredible few days of history, nature, and culture, I transferred back to Lisbon via Vienna, reflecting on what an amazing experience this trip had been. The Balkans left a deep impression on me—their rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm people made this journey one to remember.
From the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the mystical bridges of Mostar, and the hidden bays of Kotor, every place had its own story to tell, and I was grateful to have been a part of it, even if just for a few days.


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