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The Croatian city of Dubrovnik is renowned as one of the most beautifully preserved fortified cities in Europe, and rightfully so. The buildings and streets, some steep staircases lined with small shops, recall when sieges and battles were constant threats. Today, Dubrovnik is often cited as one of the destinations besieged by tourists at the height of the summer season. There is, though, a splendid way to enjoy the city while remaining far removed from the crowds by rising above them.

Located a few hundred metres outside Buza Gate in the northern wall of Dubrovnik’s Old Town is the base station for the Dubrovnik Cable Car. Dubrovnik’s setting between mountain and sea is dramatically picturesque from the summit of Srđ Mountain, more than 400 metres above sea level. The short cable car ride brings visitors to the mountain summit, a popular place to watch the sun set over the Adriatic Sea. Not that people only go in the late afternoon. The superb Panorama Restaurant at the top of the mountain, adjacent to the cable car’s upper station, is an understandably popular place for lunch, brunch, afternoon drinks, and dinner. Thanks to its extended hours of operation, the restaurant welcomes patrons throughout the day into the late evening hours, with a view that never gets tiring; some of them stay all day to enjoy the excellent food and drinks served by exceptionally friendly staff whose smiles are as bright as the Mediterranean sunshine. Some restaurants around the world occupying scenic spots rely on their locations to attract customers, perhaps letting the quality of the food take a back seat to the views; in contrast, at the Panorama Restaurant, the breathtaking views are a bonus to the culinary excellence of the food and drinks served here.

: The Panorama Restaurant on Srd Mountain

: Lunch with a view at the Panorama Restaurant

: Superb cuisine enjoyed at the Panorama Restaurant

Dubrovnik has long been a popular destination for European travellers, but with long-haul travel even for short breaks, awareness of its vast appeal has spread worldwide. Travellers from across the globe come to southern Dalmatia now to appreciate this gem of history, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. There are several museums of note on the gridded streets of the Old Town. Still, the main attraction is the city’s atmosphere and its ability to transport those with an imagination back to another era. It is possible to walk along the top of the fortifications. Still, the real experiences come on the streets where Dubrovnik’s engaging locals welcome visitors with the warm hospitality typical of Croatian society.

: The cable car ride is popular morning, noon, and night.

: Sunset over Dubrovnilk and nearby islands

It is easiest to reach Dubrovnik on nonstop flights with Croatia Airlines, which connect the city with many airports across Europe. DBV is a comparatively small facility that is easy for passengers to navigate when arriving or departing. The first and last impressions of Dubrovnik are as positive as the views and dining experiences high above the city.