Dubrovnik Hotel Alternatives

This apartment felt much more thoughtfully put together than a rental. It’s centrally located in the Old town, yet tucked into a quieter narrow side street. The beach is within walking distance, and it’s convenient for sightseeing. Looking out the window now and then gives you a glimpse of ordinary Mediterranean life. The price was competitive, too. There’s a subtle, lovely scent in every room, and the air-conditioning on both floors worked perfectly, a real help in a hot subtropical city built of stone. The owners were professional and discreet, keeping in touch only through Booking.com’s messaging system and WhatsApp. Even getting the keys was contactless, and they were always reachable if needed. The apartment has high ceilings on both floors, which give it a stately feel, though its size keeps it from feeling like a hotel lobby or office. The tiled ground floor is practical when you come back wet from the beach, while the carpet upstairs makes the sleeping area feel cozy and intimate. There’s a full kitchen set up for two, with a deep sink, full-size oven, microwave, electric kettle, high-pressure steam iron and small board, washing machine, and TV with Netflix already installed, so you don’t need your own account. There are plenty of hangers in the large wardrobe, which also has a safe deposit box, plus games and books for bad-weather days. The huge, comfy springbox bed for two has no footboard, something tall guys will appreciate in a Croatian rental, and there’s a choice of pillows in different sizes. As in a hotel alternative, the fridge comes with complimentary drinks and the bathroom has cosmetics, in case you haven’t brought your own.