Potter and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania are the newest vacation hotspots in the USA in the fall season. The fifth position in the 2025 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Destination for Fall Colors has further brought this into the limelight.
Hiking the canyon rims, watching the stars at the Cherry Springs, live entertainment, and great local food make Potter and Tioga stand out.
On the other hand, USA Today has recently named Mackinac Island the Best Place to Visit for Fall. Since 2023, it has been placed in the top three destinations in the list of USA Today as one of the best places to travel in October in the USA.
Tim Hygh, the executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, has shared his thoughts with MLive.com.
“Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience, from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors, and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition.”
So, are you ready to enjoy the whiff of the fudge in the air in Mackinac Island? Or, do you want to explore more places to travel in October in the USA? Here is a complete travel guide.
What Is The Leaf-Peeping Season In The USA? Why Is It So Special?
With the leaves of the trees turning orange and golden yellow, and the earth getting covered with dry leaves, Autumn announces the season of Thanksgiving and Halloween.
Furthermore, it is the season of apple picking and pumpkin harvesting.
Mid-September to early November is the leaf peeping season in the USA. However, the peak season for the foliage color reaches different parts of the country at different times in the month.
Parts in the USA
Leaf Peeping Season
West, the Aspen Groves in Colorado and Utah
• Late September • Early October
Midwest
• October
Blue Ridge Mountains and the Southern Part of America
• Late October
Northeastern America, such as Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire
• October
The Leaf Peeping Season In The USA In The Current Year
In the current year, the fall season has officially set in on 6th October. However, because of a pretty dry season since late July, the fall colors seem to be less visible in different parts of the country till now.
Furthermore, due to the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” the urban areas are likely to have less vibrant fall colors, and the ocean influences in the coastal areas will also impact and delay the change of foliage colors.
So, in the current year, we will have to wait till mid and late October for the leaf peeping season to reach its full glory. Even in the northeast, the drought stress since the end of August and a consistent temperature of around 80°F will delay the arrival of fall colors.
Having said that, Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and some other locations in the northwestern region have already started showing mild colors. In addition, a wet beginning to summer and the long dry spell afterward have created a favorable condition for apple and pumpkin harvesting, two other major attractions of the fall season, along with the change of leaf colors.
Moreover, the species of the trees (Red Maple Trees offer red foliage and ash trees offer yellow foliage) and their locations impact the fall colors. Trees at higher elevations and near lakes and ponds show better colors.
What Are The Best Places To Visit In October In The USA?
Have you seen the painting, Four Seasons, by Egon Schiele? The 1917 painting beautifully captures the spirit of the fall season with the shades of golden yellow and red. The “Autumn” painting of Helmer Osslund is another amazing depiction of the season, where nature sheds the old and gets ready for the new.
Some places in the USA are nothing short of these iconic paintings in the fall season. Let’s find out what special they have in store for us.
1. New England Region
Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius
The New England Region covers states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
The crisp air and silent roads with trees in golden, orange, and red shades make the region an ideal choice for autumn vacations.
Vermont
Average Temperature: 5-15 °Celsius
Vermont is the quintessential autumn destination you need to visit in the USA. The scenic drive along Route 100 and the views of the Green Mountains are breathtaking, with the leaves changing their colors.
You can also visit the apple orchards and pumpkin farms for a first-hand harvesting experience.
New Hampshire
Average Temperature: 5-12 °Celsius
Home to the White Mountains, New Hampshire is one of the best places to travel in October in the USA. You can explore the state parks and enjoy the iconic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
The small towns here are ideal for experiencing the autumn festivities.
Known as the Witch City, Salem is associated with the Infamous Witch Trials of 1692. You can be a part of the month-long Haunted Happening Festivals in October in Salem. The festivities include ghost tours and parades.
Also, visit the Salem Witch Museum for a somber and eerie experience.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bordering North Carolina And Tennessee
Average Temperature: 9-21 °Celsius
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers the most amazing views of the fall foliage with its diverse elevation.
You can hike or go for scenic drives in the national park. You can even explore nearby small towns such as Pigeon Forge.
3. Aspen, Colorado
Average Temperature: -1 to 13 °Celsius
With the aspen trees turning golden yellow in October, Aspen looks beautiful, and the Rocky Mountains create the perfect backdrop.
Furthermore, the Maroon Bells in Colorado, one of the most photographed mountains in America, looks stunning with the changing colors of foliage.
4. Boston
Average Temperature: 10-17 °Celsius
Beacon Hill and Back Bay are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston to see autumn foliage.
Furthermore, visit the Boston Common and Public Garden to enjoy a beautiful urban landscape in autumn.
5. New Orleans
Average Temperature: 20-25 °Celsius
Known for its Voodoo culture, New Orleans is most alive in the Halloween Season. Take a tour of the local cemeteries and the French Quarter to soak in the eerie vibe.
6. Orlando, Florida
Average Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius
Be a part of the Halloween Horror Nights festival in Orlando. It is one of the scariest festivals in the USA, with scare zones, haunted houses, and live acts inspired by popular horror movies and TV shows.
7. Savannah, Georgia
Average Temperature: 14-25 °Celsius
One of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit in October. A tour of the historic district of the city is spooky.
Also, you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn foliage.
8. San Francisco, California
Average Temperature: 12-21 °Celsius
Home to the notorious Alcatraz Island and prison, San Francisco is one of the most prominent locations for dark tourism in the USA.
Also, if you want to see autumn colors, you can visit Golden Gate Park.
Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most scenic locations in October. The trees in the mountains change their colors faster, and you can take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the colors.
Also, visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America.
10. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Average Temperature: 4-14 °Celsius
Santa Fe shows a beautiful fusion of Native American and Spanish culture. In October, you can be a part of the Santa Fe Harvest Festival and go hiking in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains.
The leaves of the aspen trees in the mountain trails turn golden yellow in the season.
11. New York City
Average Temperature: 14-18 °Celsius
Central Park is the epicenter of seeing fall colors in New York City. You can also be a part of the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which is the largest in the country.
Otherwise, you can just chill at the outdoor cafes and enjoy the Broadway shows.
12. Leavenworth, Washington State
Average Temperature: 7-18 °Celsius
With the charm of a Bavarian-style village, Leavenworth is just another small town in the USA that turns magical in October.
The small town hosts an Oktoberfest. It is a German-style celebration with great food and music. Furthermore, the entire town is decked up in fall foliage, pumpkins, and everything autumn.
13. Lake Tahoe: California And Nevada Border
Average Temperature: 10-21 °Celsius
Surrounded by mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most serene places to travel in October in the USA. With the summer crowd gone, the foliage in the mountains and around the lake starts changing colors.
You can do kayaking and hiking here. Or, you can just relax by the lake for some tranquility.
14. Chicago
Average Temperature: 4-21 °Celsius
Chicago bustles with energy in October as it hosts many renowned festivals. It is the month of the Chicago International Film Festival and the Lincoln Park Autumn Harvest.
Also, with the nip in the air, it is the best time to try the signature deep-dish pizzas.
15. Zion National Park, Utah
Average Temperature: 4-20 °Celsius
Hike through the famous trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion National Park and witness how the fall foliage creates a contrast against the red rock canyons in the park.
The views are dramatic, and with the summer crowd gone, the ambiance is peaceful.
Blessed by the Appalachian Mountains, Potter and Tioga Counties have the most amazing forests and verdant hills. So, the autumn vistas here are quite dramatic.
Furthermore, the Pine Creek Gorge, or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is at the epicenter of the autumn attractions here.
Moreover, you can do horse riding, hiking, or biking through the Pine Creek Rail Trail for an unforgettable experience.
Autumn on Mackinac Island is captivating. Enjoy a ride in the bikes or horse-drawn carriages to see the changing fall colors. It is famous for its car-free lifestyle.
Also, don’t forget a visit to the Mackinac Island State Park, famous for limestone arches, woods, and trails.
Visiting The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: A 7-Day Itinerary
Are you in the USA this autumn? Try this 7-day itinerary to explore the best places to travel in October in the USA.
Days
Location
Activities
Day 1
Salem
• Drive from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Salem • A Visit to the Witch House and Walking through the Historic Streets
Day 2
Boston
• Walking through the Freedom Trail and Exploring Places such as Boston Common, Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall. • A Visit to Boston Common and Enjoying a Boat Ride. • Walking through Beacon Hill
Day 3
Boston to Vermont
• Foliage Drive from Boston to Vermont for 4-5 Hours. • Stopping by the Woodstock Town to See Fall Colors. • Trying Maple Syrup at a Sugar House.
Day 4
Vermont and New England
• Hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest for Foliage Views • Shopping at Vermont Country Store • Afternoon Drive in the Berkshires
Day 5
Vermont to New York City
• A Drive for Around 5 Hours • Exploring Central Park • Visiting the NYC Landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and Times Square
Day 6
New York City
• Visiting the Metropolitan • • Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) • Brooklyn Bridge Walk • Visiting the 9/11 Museum
What Is The Cost Of A 7-Day Fall Vacation In October In The USA?
Here is the estimated cost of a 7-day fall vacation in the USA in October. The budget range here is wide because I have considered budget, mid-budget, and high-end traveling and their various options.
Types of Cost
Estimated Budget
Notes
Accommodation
$600-2100
• Hostels • Budget Inns • Boutique Hotels • B&Bs
Transportation
$200-600
• GasTolls • Parking • Subway • Rental CarTrain
Food and Drink
$350-1000
• Quick • Service • Groceries • Restaurants
Attractions
$150-450
• Entry Fees • ToursTickets
Total
$1300-4150
• (Excluding flight tickets to the USA)
A Calendar Of October Festivities In The USA
In October, try being a part of these nationwide and local festivals.
Time of Month
Festivals
Details
2025 Dates
Early October
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
• The Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival in the World • Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
4th to 12th October 2025
First Two Full Weekends in October
National Apple Harvest Festival
• Visit Biglerville, Pennsylvania.
4th and 5th October and 11th to 12th October
13th October
Columbus Day
• A Federal Holiday Celebrating America’s Past
13th October
Month-Long Activities
Salem Haunted Happenings
• Visit Salem, Massachusetts
N/A
Mid-October
Fall-Foliage Festivals
• Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maryland
N/A
31st October
Halloween
• Nationwide Celebration with Themed Parties and Spooky Tours
31st October
Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to travel in October in the USA.
1. What Is The #1 Place To Vacation In The US?
New York City, the Yellowstone National Park, and Los Angeles are some of the most popular places for a vacation in the USA. However, if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you can visit Las Vegas or Reno. Also, Orlando is the place to be for theme park fun.
2. What Is The Cheapest Vacation Destination In The USA?
Oklahoma City, known for its distinct cowboy culture, is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the USA. You can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum here. Furthermore, the cost of living in the city is way below the national average.
3. Where To Take Kids For Fun In The US?
With the presence of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is the most coveted location for kids visiting the USA. However, if your little one loves nature and wilderness, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the best places to be.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
Secure storage of travel documents and valuables is a crucial aspect for frequent travelers. Even for expatriates, or those embarking on long-term journeys. The safety of items like passports, visas, legal papers, and sentimental valuables is paramount. As their loss or damage can lead to significant inconveniences or disruptions.
Self-storage units provide an ideal solution, offering a secure and accessible space to store these critical documents. With the increasing mobility of people in a globalized world, the demand for such storage solutions has risen. These units ensure that important documents are protected from theft, loss, and environmental damage while the owners are traveling.
This introduction delves into the strategies and benefits of using self-storage units for safeguarding travel essentials.It highlights how they can provide peace of mind for travelers! It is through keeping their most important documents and valuables safe and sound.
Choosing The Right Storage For Travel Documents
Selecting the appropriate storage facility for travel documents requires careful consideration to ensure maximum security and preservation. The ideal storage solution should offer a combination of robust security features and an environment conducive to preserving paper-based documents. Key factors to consider include climate control to prevent damage from humidity and temperature fluctuations. The strong physical security measures to safeguard against theft or unauthorized access. Facilities like Northwest Self Storage units typically provide these essential features. It makes them a suitable choice for storing sensitive travel documents.
Additionally, the location of the storage unit is a vital aspect. It especially for travelers who may need quick access to their documents. It's important to choose a storage provider that balances convenience with high security, ensuring that travel documents are both safe and accessible when needed. By carefully selecting a storage unit that meets these criteria, travelers can have confidence that their important documents are securely stored and well-preserved, ready for their next adventure.
Best Practices For Storing Valuable Papers
Storing valuable travel documents such as passports, visas, and other critical papers requires adherence to best practices to ensure their longevity and safety. The following are key guidelines to consider:
Use Acid-Free Folders: Store documents in acid-free folders to prevent deterioration.
Maintain a Dry Environment: Protect papers from moisture-related damage.
Avoid Direct Light: Store documents away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Keep in a Secure Location: Use a locked cabinet or safe within the storage unit.
Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the documents for any signs of damage.
For more information on preserving important documents, resources from the Library of Congress provide detailed guidance. By following these best practices, travelers can be assured that their valuable papers are stored under optimal conditions, minimizing the risk of damage and loss. Proper storage not only preserves the physical state of these documents but also ensures that they remain accessible and intact for future travel needs.
Digital Backup Of Important Travel Documents
In today's digital age, creating electronic backups of important travel documents is as crucial as physical storage. This process involves scanning or photographing passports, visas, insurance policies, and other vital papers, and storing the digital copies in a secure, accessible online location. Digital backups serve as a safeguard against the loss or damage of physical copies and provide an additional layer of security. They can be lifesavers in situations where the original documents are inaccessible due to unforeseen circumstances during travel.
The key to effective digital document storage lies in choosing secure and reliable cloud storage services, where data encryption and privacy settings are paramount. Additionally, it's wise to have these digital copies accessible through multiple devices, including smartphones and laptops, ensuring they can be retrieved whenever necessary. However, it's important to balance accessibility with security, ensuring that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access. Adopting this dual approach of physical and digital storage not only ensures the safety of travel documents but also provides peace of mind to travelers, knowing they have immediate backups available in any situation.
Accessibility And Retrieval Of Stored Items
Ensuring easy accessibility and retrieval of stored travel documents is essential for travelers who may need to access their papers quickly. Here are a few steps to optimize the accessibility of stored items:
Strategic Organization: Arrange documents in a logical order, perhaps by type or frequency of use, to quickly locate what you need.
Clear Labeling: Label each storage box or folder clearly, detailing its contents for easy identification.
Access Procedures: Establish and familiarize yourself with the storage facility's procedures for accessing your unit, especially outside standard hours.
For detailed guidelines on organizing and accessing important documents, the National Archives provides valuable resources. By implementing these steps, travelers can ensure that their documents are not only safely stored but also readily accessible when needed. This organization is particularly important in emergency situations or unexpected travel changes, where quick access to travel documents can alleviate stress and facilitate smoother travel experiences.
Combining Physical And Digital Security Measures
To maximize the safety of travel documents, combining physical storage with digital security measures is paramount. This dual approach ensures comprehensive protection against a range of risks. In physical storage, using secure self-storage units with robust locks and controlled access is essential. For digital security, employing encrypted cloud services to store digital copies of documents provides an additional layer of protection.
Ensuring The Safety Of Travel Essentials
In conclusion, effectively storing and securing travel documents involves a blend of physical and digital methods. By utilizing self-storage for physical documents and digital platforms for backups, travelers can ensure the safety and accessibility of their essential papers.
Read Also:
How To Apply For A Passport Online In This Pandemic, And Which Countries Allow You To Travel Now?
With the beautiful Spanish culture spread across Manila, there are a lot of places to visit. There are a lot of things to do in Manila which I will highlight in this blog so that you can plan your trip accordingly.
Starting from contemporary museums to art scene, the place is the home of the oldest Chinatown across the world. Let me share with you several elements that will help you explore the place, both the old and the new.
I think Manila is one of the best places to visit in February especially because the weather is dry and pleasant. You can easily explore the city during this time.
Read All About Things to Do in Manila!
If you are wondering about the things to do in Manila, let me share with you some of the coolest places to visit. The nightlife is good here, but I am more of a museum and art scene girlie. It is the home of several parks and museums that will express history to you.
Several elements will make you feel that you have come to a previous era. Additionally, several places offer entertainment and fun to people of all ages.
Rizal Park
A beautiful park, open from Monday to Sunday. It is mostly open from 5 am to 10 am and 11 am to 8 pm. When you visit the park, entry is completely free. There are several gardens, laws, and other outdoor events organized across the 57-hectare park.
There is also a statue of hero Jose Rizal, commemorating him, and the name of the park is given. The hero has contributed to the wellbeing of the city hence, you get to see a lot of him and his commemoration in and around the city and places to visit.
There are a lot of places where you can go shopping once you explore the city. Henceforth, if you are traveling alone, carry the best travel credit card you possess.
Fort Santiago
It is a landmark in Manila which is open from Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 11 pm. The place is a defensive fortress which has a museum exhibiting many arts and sculptures. The national hero, Jose Rizal is commemorated through the exhibits of the museum.
In 1571, the Spanish governor and navigator, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi built the castle or the citadel. The city of Manila was newly established by then and is currently one of the oldest fortifications.
National Museum of Fine Arts
A massive museum, the place is a collection of fine art, botany, natural history and archaeology related to Filipino culture. The museum is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm.
As the home of 29 galleries and exhibitions in the hallway, it comprises national artists and Filipo masters of the 19th century.
San Agustin Church
A beautiful place to visit, this historic place was constructed in the 16th century. The San Agustin Church is open from Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm. The ceilings are vaulted while the church exhibits detailed frescoes.
It is a Roman Catholic church which is located in the intricate walled city of Intramuros in Manila. The church functions under the auspices of the Order of Saint Augustine. Furthermore, when you visit you get to see Baroque art in the church.
Manila Ocean Park
More of an aquarium if you ask me, the Manila Ocean Park is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The theme park is owned by China Oceanis Philippines Inc. and it has evolved into the perfect holiday destination for tourists.
It is an aquatic theme park which you will have both fun and knowledge when you check it out. Additionally, it is a perfect place for you, if you are traveling with your kids. It is one of the best places to travel with kids.
It is also an educational facility that features live shows, an oceanarium, and hands-on activities. There are all-star Bird shows, Sea lion shows and many more giving you the perfect experience and offering you the thrill of the ocean.
Intramuros
The meaning of the term, Intramuros, is the “Walled City” which is the oldest district in Manila. It looks like a fortified city which was one of the most important places for Spanish governor during earlier times of colonial times.
If you are a lover of history, this is the place for you. The culture of the place has been heavily influenced by the colonial rule and the impact it has on ordinary people.
Paco Park
An urban park which offers you serenity when you visit it between 6 am to 5 pm from Monday to Sunday. The park has been developed on a cemetery site which is walled of course. There are shaded paths for people to walk along with areas dedicated for gardens.
The cemetery is under the maintenance of municipality, and it was built by the Dominicans. During the Spanish colonial period, it was built and filled within it are interred remains of city figures.
Ayala Museum
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGpqNWWTrLn/?img_index=4
Another amazing museum that you must visit if you are going on a trip to Manila is Ayala Museum. It is open from Sunday to Monday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum has a modern touch exhibiting Filipino archeological exhibits.
Starting from history to modern and cultural artifacts and exhibits are available here. There is also a research library that is quite important for you if you are writing a research paper on the history of Spanish colonial period.
The place is run by the Ayala Foundation privately. It houses several ethnographic, archaeological and cultural exhibits and art. You will be fascinated to know that the place exhibits the Surigao treasure of the indigenous tribe?
Arroceros Forest Park
Another urban park that you must visit is Arroceros Forest Park as things to do in Manila. There are a wide variety of plants and trees in the park along with a riverside walkway and a fishpond! A perfect combination of nature and modern practices will enhance your overall experience.
The park is open for you to visit from Sunday to Monday from 8 am to 5 pm. The lush green forest is filled with greenery. Did you know this place is also known as “Last Lung of Manila”? Spread across 2.2 hectares, the park is a home of many flora and fauna species.
Casa Manila
The Casa Manila is a house that now serves as a museum which is open from Sunday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. The house was built in the 1850s and is not restored to exhibit art, architecture, and colonial furniture of the Spanish colonial rule.
It is often called the living museum which features the way a well to do affluent Filipino family will live. The lifestyle of this family is depicted through the arrangements of furniture, art and architecture.
The colonization had severely impacted Manila and this is how we can see when we enter the museum. It is a must-do list of things to do in Manila.
Wrapping Up!
In conclusion, now that you have gone through the things to do in Manila, I am sure you are already planning on what to do. When you visit the place, I am sure you will experience the ancient practices and instances of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.
Comment below on which place is your favorite to visit when you to Manila. You also need to share with us if you think we have missed something on the things to-do list.
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People are calling Dubrovnik a travel secret, a hidden gem in the Mediterranean region, and whatnot!
I don’t agree with these, as for the longest time, Dubrovnik has been famous as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”
Also, the Old Town of Dubrovnik was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Moreover, this city in Croatia has been facing overtourism since the HBO series Game of Thrones became so huge.
It is the filming location of the series.
Even if you are not a Game of Thrones fan, you will love the blue water of the Adriatic Sea, the walls around the Old City, the cobblestone streets, and, overall, the quaint charm.
While it takes almost a week to explore the best of Dubrovnik and indulge in its happening culinary scene, here I have curated a quick itinerary of what to do in Dubrovnik.
This time, the best activities in Dubrovnik span over 3 days, and here you go! However, before that, I want to share how I fell in love with this Mediterranean gem and what the best time to visit this beautiful city is.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik?
May to September is the best time to visit Dubrovnik.
Pleasant weather conditions
Affordable hotel rates
Less crowd
An ideal situation for exploring beaches and water activities
These are the benefits of scheduling your trip to Dubrovnik during these months.
Further, have a look at the table below to understand the weather conditions of Dubrovnik by month.
MonthsHighest Temperature (°C)Lowest Temperature (°C)Days of RainfallJanuary13710February1499March15109April17128May22156June27205July30223August31233September27204October23177November191110December 15810
Moreover, if you want to explore the festive scenario of Dubrovnik, you can plan your visit during the following months.
Festivals in DubrovnikTimeSignificance of the FestivalFestival of St. Blaise3rd FebruaryThe two-day festivities include a grand procession, and the city celebrates St. Blaise, its patron saint, on this day. It is also an intangible cultural heritage identified by UNESCO. Dubrovnik Summer FestivalJuly-AugustUnique cultural programs and artistic performances are the festival's highlights. Festivities take place across various areas of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik Winter FestivalNovember to JanuaryThe historic Old Town comes to life with music, lights, family fun, and more. Dubrovnik Good Food FestivalOctoberIt is a two-week-long food festival, including vibrant events. Stradun ClassicSeptember to OctoberMusicians around the globe perform at Stradun Classic. Midsummer SceneJune-JulyThis festival takes place at the Lovrjenac Fortress.Croatian and British theatre artists collaborate to perform the celebrated Shakespearean plays.
How I Fell In Love With Dubrovnik?
Being the biggest fan of Game of Thrones, I, of course, got to know about this beautiful Croatian City.
Dubrovnik was the King’s Landing or the capital of Westeros in the series. The Red Keep and the unforgettable scene of Cersei’s “Walk of Shame.”
Then, I researched Dubrovnik and its magnificent walls surrounding the Old Town, and the seafood delicacies here made me fall in love with the city.
So, if you thought that Dubrovnik was all about pasta and pizza and exploring the Old Town on the hottest days, it’s time to guide you on how to do it right.
What To Do In Dubrovnik: A Complete 3-Day Itinerary For You
Here is what to do in Dubrovnik during a 3-day trip.
Day 1: What To Do In Dubrovnik
Your day 1 in Dubrovnik will be focused on exploring the walled Old City. You can also take your time to relax by the pool or the sea, visit the local restaurants, enjoy a cable car ride, indulge in fine dining and the best wines, and end your day with a night stroll.
1. Exploring The Walled Old City Of Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Old City celebrates Croatia's rich medieval history. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and taking a stroll across the cobblestone street and visiting places like the Cultural History Museum are the ultimate experiences here.
“The 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO.”
- UNESCO World Heritage Convention
2. Relaxing By The Pool Or The Sea
If you want a delightful beach experience, you can visit Mlini Bay or Lapad Peninsula in Dubrovnik.
However, if you are feeling too lazy to explore the beach, you can explore hotels with pools for the perfect lounging time.
3. Visiting Local Restaurants
Dubrovnik has places such as Proto, where you can have the best shrimp, scallops, and octopus delicacies.
Further, fish cooked in sea salt is something you cannot miss in Dubrovnik.
4. Enjoying A Cable Car Ride
A ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car before Sunset is truly magical. During this ride, you can enjoy the changing colors of the Sun in the sky.
Further, as you approach the top of Mount Srd, you will see wonderful views of the Elafiti Islands to the north.
5. Fine Dining And Wine Tasting
Local restaurants, such as Panorama Restaurant in Dubrovnik, offer wonderful views alongside the best local cuisine.
They serve amazing steak sandwiches and Chicken “Rustico.”
Furthermore, you can taste red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines here. D’Vino Wine Bar is another hotspot in Dubrovnik to relish the best of Croatian wines.
6. Taking A Walk In The City At Night
Are you a Dark Academia fan? Do you want to enjoy your “Everything is Grey” moment in the city?
Take a walk around the city at night when there are no cruise passengers, and the lights and darkness create a mysterious ambiance.
Day 2: What To Do In Dubrovnik
Kayaking, chilling by the beach, and exploring the City Walls are some of the best activities you can do on day 2.
1. Adventurous Kayaking In Dubrovnik
Kayaking at the City Beach will be the best way to start your second day. Kayaking tours start here at $43.
2. Relaxing At The Beach
If kayaking is not your forte, you can plan a visit to the City Beach and enjoy the crystal clear water and Sunshine while exploring the views of the Old City.
3. Exploring The Walls of Dubrovnik During The Sunset
You can take a 2-hour walk along the city walls to relish the beauty of the Sunset. Once you reach the top, you can also grab some local snacks and the best coffee at the cafes.
You need to buy tickets to explore the City Walls, and the ticket prices are:
During the high season, tickets for adults to explore the City Walls cost 40 EUR, while children's tickets are 15 EUR.
However, in the low season, ticket prices are 15 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children.
4. Relishing Croatian Peka Meal
If you're looking for a fun-filled community-building experience, consider the Peka Meal in the signature Dubrovnik style.
Here, you will have the option of lamb, veal, or octopus in a communal pot. Further, potatoes will be cooked over the coal and served to everyone.
Day 3: What To Do In Dubrovnik
Your day three will begin a journey to Lokrum Island. This Island houses the Benedictine Monastery and the Dubrovnik Visitor Center.
The Visitor Center has the Iron Throne, where you can sit and live your Game of Thrones moments.
Furthemore, the Dalmatian Coast has rock slab beaches. You can jump into the water there and enjoy the most unique views of the Old City.
Additionally, you can visit Mljet Island, home to the Mljet National Park and stunning saltwater lakes.
Then, the Red History Museum, located across from the Gruž Ferry Port, will be your next destination. The ticket to the museum is 9 EUR for adults, 7.20 EUR for seniors and university students, and 3.60 EUR for primary and secondary students.
Furthermore, for students under the age of 10, admission to the museum is free.
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik?
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace and Hotel Excelsior are two of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik. Hotel Excelsior is located close to the walls of the Old Town and the City Beach.
On the other hand, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace offers a luxury resort experience, and it offers the best views of the Adriatic Coast.