There's no wrong way to do Dubrovnik. But the best way to experience this centuries-old city is from just beyond the walls of Old Town. Close enough to soak up the cinematic views of the setting sun dipping into the sea behind the white-stone city but far enough away to be removed from the throngs of tourists, the Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is the perfect vantage point from which to experience the very best of Dubrovnik.
I checked into the historical seaside hotel during a monthlong roadtrip in Croatia. A welcome respite after days on the road, the Hotel Excelsior wowed me from its cliffside perch overlooking the brilliantly blue Adriatic Sea. Just off to the right was the 800-year-old city walls, wrapped snugly around one of the most beautiful medieval cities in the world.
Dubrovnik is a city with a split identity. It's fiercely proud of its history and tradition, with buildings, shops and customs that have remained unchanged. And yet the city was thrust into the 21st-century entertainment spotlight after serving as the set for television shows and movies seen the world over -- "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" and the HBO meghit series "Game of Thrones" are probably the most notable. Since then, it has attracted everyone from casual cruise passengers to the sun-worshiping, Champagne-sipping glitterati. The beauty of the Hotel Excelsior is that it marries both of these identities in a way that is both classically Croatian and internationally chic.
History in its hallways
History and tradition are baked right into the bones of the hotel. The original hotel structure is a villa built in 1913. Over the past 110 years, the hotel has welcomed the international elite -- everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Elizabeth Taylor. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and with iconic Adriatic Sea views, it's easy to see why this hotel has been an A-list favorite for so long. It's also a five-minute walk from the city's stone gates that lead to the maze of cobblestone streets within.
The Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik's two wings showcase both old world glamour and modern elegance. Photo Credit: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
But the hotel has also fully integrated into the 21st century with a modernized tower that has sleek guestrooms, a spa, a fitness center, a sun-drenched clifftop lobby, a terrace restaurant, and a bar.
I checked into a Deluxe Room, one of the hotel's 158 rooms and suites. The Deluxe Rooms are located in the original villa building and have sea views as well as private terraces that have stunning views of Old Town.
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A glance down below reveals the rustically elegant pool deck -- a seafront promenade made of stone with a series of ladders that lead straight down into the turquoise Adriatic waters. You'll see these ladders at beach promenades up and down the Croatian coast; guests at Hotel Excelsior can descend the ladders to the sea from the property's stone deck.
The seafront pool at the Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik has a secret grotto vibe. Photo Credit: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
The hotel's signature stone pool gives off a secret grotto vibe; it's not uncommon to see an Instagram influencer or two lining up the perfect shot as waves from the sea crash over the rocks into the pool. I recommend booking a table at Prora Restaurant, which is out on the pool deck. Dine out under an umbrella or within the cave-like stone arches for a fabulously fresh al fresco seafood lunch.
Another nod to the region's past and present is the serene spa. The minimalist space feels like a hushed haven, with a stunning pool, Jacuzzi whirlpools and a series of Turkish and Roman baths. The Bubbles 4 Two package is a treat for couples, with a signature massage and Champagne. The treatment finishes with a soak in a private Jacuzzi. Guests do not have to book a treatment to use the pool or the hydrotherapy facilities, which is a nice touch.
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For those choosing to extend their stay and Dubrovnik and craving a
different perspective on the town, I'd recommend a reservation at the
Excelsior's sister property, the Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik,
located on the other side of Old Town. The hotel's Michelin-recommended
Vapor Restaurant is an experience all on its own. From its position on
the bluffs overlooking the crashing sea below, to the gorgeous outdoor
terrace, wine list and decadent tasting menu, this is a bucket list
experience for foodies.