If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia, then you should consider visiting the lively neighborhood of Gruž. In 2022, one of the most popular newspapers – The Telegraph published a list of the 16 ‘coolest’ neighborhoods in Europe. As the only representative of Croatia, Gruž found itself on a list alongside districts in Amsterdam, Berlin, and London.
In short, Gruž is a great place to experience a more local side of Dubrovnik, and here are some of the things you can do while you are there:
Visit the Gruž Market
The Gruž Market is one of the largest open-air markets in Dubrovnik and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in local culture. The market is open daily from early morning until mid-afternoon and is a bustling hub of activity. Here, you’ll find vendors selling a wide variety of fresh, locally-grown produce, as well as seafood, meat, cheese, and other specialty items. The market is a great place to experience the vibrant energy of Dubrovnik and meet locals who are passionate about their culture and cuisine.
Explore the Gruž harbor
The port of Gruz is the largest commercial port in Dubrovnik and serves as a hub for ferry and cruise ship traffic. From the port, you can easily access nearby islands such as Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, and Korčula, as well as other destinations along the Croatian coast. We would strongly suggest booking one of the Dubrovnik Boat Tours to enjoy the unbelievable islands’ beauty and to taste the local cuisine and specialties of the region. This can be a great way to learn about the culinary traditions of a particular place and expand your palate.
Visit the new art district (former factory)
Gruž is also home to TUP (a former factory and industrial hub of Dubrovnik). It is now run by local enthusiasts who host concerts, various activities, workshops, and Red History Museum. This museum is a mandatory stop for all who are interested in what everyday life was like in Dubrovnik during that Yugoslavian period.
Walk the Promenade
This promenade is a beautiful walkway that runs along the coast from the Gruž neighborhood to the Lapad Bay area in Dubrovnik. The promenade is about 2.5 km (1.6 miles) long and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy a stroll or jog while taking in the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. It is lined with palm trees, benches, and cafes, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
Visit the Dubrovnik Bridge
Foto: ING-GRAD
The Dubrovnik Bridge, also known as the Franjo Tuđman Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Rijeka Dubrovačka inlet near the Gruž neighborhood of Dubrovnik. The bridge was completed in 2002 and is named after Franjo Tuđman, the first president of Croatia. The bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the nearby mountains, the Rijeka Dubrovačka inlet, and the Gruž port. In short, the bridge is an impressive feat of engineering, and it’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the views.
Try local beer
Dubrovnik Beer Company is the first and the only brewery in Dubrovnik. They produce a range of craft beers, including pale ales, stouts, and lagers, using locally sourced ingredients. They also offer brewery tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample some of their beers. If you’re a beer lover visiting Dubrovnik, you should definitely pay a visit to Dubrovnik Beer Company.
Overall, Gruž is a fantastic neighborhood to explore if you’re looking for a more local experience in Dubrovnik. Whether you’re looking to sample some local flavors, enjoy the views, explore the area, or learn more about the history – Gruž is definitely worth a visit.