Croatia is no longer Europe’s best-kept secret, thanks in part to Game of Thrones. Hugging the glittering waters of the Adriatic Sea, the Southeastern European country has seen tourism spike in recent years, and the medieval town of Dubrovnik claims that Game of Thrones fans have pumped $10 million into the local economy. Then again, maybe its growing popularity has something to do with the country’s picturesque villages, mild climate, 1,200 islands and budget-friendly prices. In fact, entire-place Airbnb rentals in Dubrovnik currently average just $91/night, and many come complete with stunning views of the red rooftops and the sea. Here are 10 of our favorites.
1. La Bohème apartment 2. Spacious Apartment 3. Studio Kornelija 4. Renovated Studio Apartment 5. Luxury Apartment 6. Mlini Apartment 7. Sunny Studio 8. Carpe Diem 9. Roomy Two Bedroom 10. Lapad Apartment
Paste’s Airbnb columnist Erica Jackson Curran is a former alt-weekly editor turned moonlight freelancer based in Richmond, Virginia.
1 of 10
Located just steps away from Ploce Gate and Dubrovnik's Old Town, "La Boheme" apartment combines a rustic, old-world look with modern amenities. There's a tiny, bright orange kitchen, seating areas, a terrace, and a shower that past guests describe as "incredible" and "super dope." The décor is inspired by Jim Morrison.
Airbnb
2 of 10
This spacious apartment offers plenty of room to spread out, plus an incredible view of the water. The view comes with a price: lots of stairs from Old Town, which is about five minutes away. But there's a good-sized kitchen, dining area and living room, a king-sized bed, and a large terrace with lounge chairs. There's also a free parking space—a rare find in the city—or the host can provide an airport transfer.
Airbnb
3 of 10
Studio Kornelija is situated in a historic villa once used by local noblemen as a summer escape. Surrounded by gardens with an on-site chapel, the petite apartment has a private entrance and terrace, and it's a 10-minute bus ride from Old Town. It's also close to Harbour Gruz, perfect if you're planning excursions to nearby islands like Lopud, Korcula or Sipan.
Airbnb
4 of 10
This recently renovated studio apartment is in a quiet area a scenic walk away from the harbor, Old Town and other local attractions. With a bedroom and fold-out couch, there's room for four guests. Also convenient: a free parking space and a nearby storage room for your luggage if your arrival and departure doesn't line up with check-in/check-out times.
Airbnb
5 of 10
The views are the star of this luxury apartment five minutes from Old Town. Take in a bird's eye view of the city and the sea from the apartment's living room and bedroom, plus enjoy a full, modern kitchen and bathroom, a large bedroom, and private parking. Host Ana currently boasts 164 five-star reviews from guests calling the apartment "amazing" and "magical."
Airbnb
6 of 10
Get a taste of the Croatian village life with this ground-floor apartment in Mlini, nine kilometers from the center of Dubrovnik. The pool and terrace, shared among the building's residents, have breathtaking views of the sea. The building also has a parking lot if you're driving, or there are local buses into the city every half hour.
Airbnb
7 of 10
In a 17th century building in the center of Old Town, this sunny studio has all the basics for a short stay in Dubrovnik. Just down the street is lively Buza Bar, which is only accessible through a hole in the wall, and the beach Banje is just five minutes away.
Airbnb
8 of 10
The pretty-in-pink "Carpe Diem" apartment is right on Stradun, the main pedestrian street in the city. The bed is on a cozy loft up a small flight of stairs, and there's a tiny kitchenette, a table for two, and futon. Past guests praise the apartment for being easy to find, perfectly located, and surprisingly quiet.
Airbnb
9 of 10
Bring the family to this roomy two-bedroom apartment in Gornji Kono, which has views of the Dubrovnik coast and walking paths to Old Town. From the brightly tiled bathroom to the midcentury modern furniture, the place has a cool vintage vibe. Past guests rave about the large furnished terrace, the perfect spot for watching sunsets over the Elaphite Islands.
Airbnb
10 of 10
Surround yourself with ancient stone in this Lapad apartment, located in a quieter but still convenient part of town. The kitchen is small but well-equipped, and there's a little terrace for soaking up the sun. There's a bus stop on the same street that will take you into the city.
Airbnb