The King's City Dubrovnik

January in Dubrovnik is like visiting a movie set after the crew has packed up and gone home. The city, famously known as King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones", is quieter, cheaper, and still stunningly beautiful.

My adventure began at the Pile Gate, where I half-expected to see Tyrion Lannister sipping wine and dropping sarcastic one-liners. Instead, I was greeted by a friendly local who pointed me toward the Old Town. The cobblestone streets were slick with rain, and I quickly learned that my sneakers were no match for Dubrovnik’s slippery charm. Note to self: invest in better footwear.

I wandered through the Old Town, marveling at the medieval architecture and the towering city walls. The streets were lined with charming shops and cafes, and I couldn’t resist stopping for a cup of strong Croatian coffee. Pro tip: if you order a “kava,” be prepared for a caffeine kick that could wake the dead. I also tried a slice of rozata, a local custard dessert that’s like crème brûlée’s Croatian cousin. It was creamy, caramel-y, and absolutely delicious.

Next, I climbed the city walls, which offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed buildings below. The walk was steep and slightly treacherous (thanks again, slippery cobblestones), but the views were worth every wobbly step. I even spotted a few "Game of Thrones" filming locations, including the spot where Cersei Lannister began her infamous walk of shame. I may or may not have reenacted the scene, much to the amusement (or horror) of the few other tourists around.

In the afternoon, I took a cable car up to Mount Srđ, where I was treated to breathtaking views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. The ride was short but thrilling, and I spent a good hour at the top, soaking in the scenery and pretending to be a character in a romantic movie. Spoiler: no dashing love interest appeared, but I did get a great Instagram photo.

As the sun set, I headed back to the Old Town for dinner at a cozy konoba (tavern). I tried black risotto, a local specialty made with cuttlefish ink. It was rich, flavorful, and turned my teeth a lovely shade of black. I washed it down with a glass of local red wine, which was smooth and delicious. By the end of the meal, I was warm, full, and slightly tipsy – the perfect way to end a day in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik in winter is a magical experience. The city’s charm, history, and stunning scenery make it a destination that’s both enchanting and entertaining. Just remember to watch your step – those cobblestones are sneaky.