I have long dreamed of exploring Dubrovnik, a Mediterranean gem known for its stunning coastline and rich history. Our 10-day adventure in Croatia included a stay in Dubrovnik, and choosing the right accommodation was a key part of our trip. I’ll share our experiences with staying in Dubrovnik, focusing particularly on our choice of accommodation in the Ploče district and why it proved to be a great decision.
Staying in the Old Town: Luxury and Vibrancy
Let’s start with the Old Town of Dubrovnik, the heart of the city. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the Old Town is renowned for its magnificent city walls, historic buildings, and lively streets. Staying here puts you right in the center of the action, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere. However, accommodations in the Old Town tend to be quite expensive.
Dubrovnik, often hailed as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is renowned for its stunning Old Town, magnificent city walls, and vibrant atmosphere. When planning our trip to Dubrovnik, we faced a dilemma: should we stay within the Old Town for its unbeatable location or find a more budget-friendly option nearby? After careful consideration, we chose to stay at Hotel Lero, which turned out to be a fantastic decision.
Hotel Lero: Overview and Location
Hotel Lero is a modern and comfortable hotel situated just a short distance from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Located approximately 2 kilometers from the Old Town, the hotel offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to the more expensive accommodations right in the heart of the city. Its address is Iva Vojnovića 14, Dubrovnik 20000, Croatia.
Facilities and Services
Hotel Lero provides a range of facilities and services designed to enhance the comfort of its guests. Upon arrival, we were impressed by the hotel’s contemporary design and welcoming atmosphere.
- Comfortable Rooms: The rooms are well-appointed, featuring modern decor, comfortable beds, and ample space. Our room included air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar.
- On-site Restaurant and Bar: The hotel has a stylish restaurant offering a variety of local and international dishes. We enjoyed breakfast here each morning, which included a generous buffet with fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, and more. The bar area is perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of exploring.
- Outdoor Pool: The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by loungers, providing a great place to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
- Fitness Center: For those who like to stay active while traveling, there’s a well-equipped fitness center available.
- Parking: The hotel offers free parking, which was a significant advantage as we had rented a car for part of our trip.
Booking and Discounts
We booked our stay at Hotel Lero through Booking.com, which often features various deals and discounts. By booking a few months in advance, we were able to secure a competitive rate. During our stay, the hotel offered special promotions, including discounts on extended stays and packages that included breakfast.
Getting to Hotel Lero
- From the Airport: The hotel is approximately a 30-minute drive from Dubrovnik Airport. We arranged an airport transfer through the hotel’s concierge service, which made our arrival smooth and hassle-free. Alternatively, taxis and shuttle buses are available at the airport.
- From the Main Bus Station: If you’re arriving by bus, the main bus station in Dubrovnik is about 10 minutes away by taxi. The hotel also offers shuttle services upon request.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Our stay at Hotel Lero was delightful. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that all our needs were met. The hotel’s location provided a good balance—close enough to the Old Town to explore easily, yet far enough to offer a more tranquil environment.
Recommendation Index: I highly recommend Hotel Lero for its excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location. It strikes a perfect balance between proximity to major attractions and affordability. If you’re looking for a comfortable stay with easy access to Dubrovnik’s Old Town without breaking the bank, Hotel Lero is an excellent choice.
Hotel Lero provided us with a memorable and pleasant stay during our visit to Dubrovnik. With its modern amenities, attentive service, and convenient location, it offered great value for money and allowed us to fully enjoy our Dubrovnik experience.
Choosing the Ploče District: Convenience and Scenic Beauty
To strike a balance between budget and convenience, we ultimately decided to stay in the Ploče district. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance to the Old Town, Ploče offers an excellent alternative for those seeking comfort without the premium price of Old Town lodging. This area is not only quieter but also boasts some of Dubrovnik’s most beautiful beaches.
In Ploče, we chose to stay at Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, this hotel provides breathtaking views and modern amenities. We particularly enjoyed the hotel’s infinity pool, which offered a relaxing spot to unwind while taking in the stunning Adriatic Sea vistas. The hotel’s restaurant served delicious Mediterranean cuisine and local specialties. The area around Ploče also features Bellevue Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in Dubrovnik, where we spent many enjoyable mornings.
Pile District: A Quiet and Private Option
If you prefer a more peaceful environment, the Pile district could be an ideal choice. Located at the opposite end of the Old Town, this area offers a quieter setting and is slightly more secluded, which can lead to lower accommodation prices compared to the more central Old Town.
During our stay in the Pile district, we opted for Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik. This hotel is known for its high-quality service and comfortable accommodations. Although it is a bit further from the Old Town, the hotel is well-connected by local transportation, making it easy to explore the city. The hotel features modern decor, spacious rooms, and a lovely garden with a swimming pool. We particularly enjoyed the extensive breakfast buffet, which provided a great start to our days.
Summary and Recommendations
Dubrovnik offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious stays in the Old Town to more budget-friendly and scenic choices in the Ploče and Pile districts. Based on our experience, here are a few recommendations for choosing the right accommodation:
- Choose Based on Your Budget: If your budget allows, staying in the Old Town offers unmatched convenience and vibrant surroundings. If you’re looking to save, Ploče and Pile provide excellent value while still offering a pleasant environment and easy access to key attractions.
- Book in Advance: Dubrovnik is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking your accommodation in advance can secure better rates and availability.
- Opt for Beachside Hotels: If you enjoy beach time, Ploče is a great choice due to its proximity to Dubrovnik’s most beautiful beaches. This can enhance your overall experience with easy beach access.
- Understand Transportation Options: Regardless of where you stay, knowing the local transportation options can help you plan your itinerary and ensure smooth travel throughout your trip.
Whether you’re seeking luxury in the Old Town or a more relaxed stay in Ploče or Pile, Dubrovnik offers a variety of accommodation choices to suit different preferences and budgets. I hope this guide provides useful information and helps you find the perfect place to stay in Dubrovnik. Enjoy your stay in this captivating city, where history, beauty, and relaxation come together in perfect harmony.
