FYI that my wife and I have used Rick's books on our European travels for 25 years - 12 trips. This one was for our 25th anniversary to Dubrovnik and Korcula! It was tough deciding whether to go due to Covid but glad we did as all worked out. If you are planning to go, definitely get prepared on what you need to do. Doing our research and just asking questions of our guides and hotel managers was a huge help.
Sites:
Dubrovnik:
- Loved Lokrum Island, The Walls of course, Stradun, morning and evening walks in the Old Town, gondola ride to Mt. Srd, kayak ride around the wall, our side trips to Mostar, Montenegro and Konavle region/Cavtat, Peljesac Peninsula and great wine.
Korcula
- evening walks around Promende in the old town (see below), sunsets, walking up to the church tower, side trips to Lumbarda (Bire Winery and beaches), Vrnik Island.
Guides:
- We used Rick's recommendations of Petar Vlasic (for Pelajesac and transfer to Korcula/Orebic); Ermin/Alma Elezovic (Mostar); and Pepo Klaic (Montenegro and Konavle and airport transfers). All were excellent and totally worth it. Took us to great spots.
Hotels:
- Karmen Apartments (Dubrovnik; now Van Bloeman Apartments) - excellent as always; great spot and service; only stayed here one night.
- St. Joseph's Hotel (Dubrovnik; not in Rick's book) - stayed here a week; it's a splurge but would highly recommend. One of the few hotels in the old city. It's on a quiet side street. Great service and rooms. Staff was always smiling and willing to help with anything. Wonderful breakfast each morning.
- Hotel Korsal (Korcula - in Rick's book) - very solid. Short walk to the Old Town if you don't mind it. Great breakfast. Staff was nice. Rooms are very good sized for Europe.
Restaurants:
Dubrovnik:
- Loved - Restaurant Dubrovnik, Oliva Pizzareria, Restaurant Dalmatino, Kopun, Konoba Vinica Monkavic (in Konavle), Restaurant Panarama, Spaghetteria Toni (all in book); Pizzaria Mirakul, Gianni Gelato (both not in book)
Korcula:
- Loved - Aterina, Filippi, Adio Mare, Mariola's (not in book - wine bar next to Bokar; would check it out)
Others we loved in other places:
- City Restaurant (Kotor)
- Bisentine (Mostar)
- Cafe de Alma (Mostar)
- Caffe Konoba Vitacae (Trestinik on Peljesac Peninsula)
- Mom and Pop Oyster Shack that Petar took us to (on Peljesac Peninsula - I'm working to get the name of this)
Final Thoughts:
- On Korcula, the lighted promenade at night along the city's wall is one of our favorite European short walks. Great vibe and aura.
- Also on Korcula, in terms of other day trips, would recommend Vrnik island along with the others. Nice small cafe there and beach spots. You can get there by the same water taxis.
Thanks to Rick and Cameron for all of their great research that helped us a ton! We look forward to our future travels!