Amoret Apartments

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first walked up to Amoret Apartments on Ilije Sarake Street – I mean, it’s tucked away in this narrow little street that honestly feels more residential than touristy. But that’s actually what makes it perfect. You’re literally in the heart of Old Town, maybe a two-minute walk from the main Stradun, but without all the chaos that comes with staying right on the main drag.

The apartments themselves are surprisingly spacious – and I say surprising because, well, most places in Dubrovnik’s old walls are pretty cramped. These feel like actual homes rather than hotel rooms crammed into ancient stone buildings. The kitchenettes are properly equipped too, which is huge if you’re planning to grab some of that amazing produce from the morning market near the cathedral (it’s literally around the corner). What really got me was the attention to detail – the stone walls have this authentic medieval feel, but they’ve managed to make everything feel modern and comfortable without that weird clash you sometimes get in historic buildings. The bathrooms are actually decent sized, which anyone who’s stayed in European old towns will appreciate.

Here’s the thing about the location that locals know but tourists often miss – you’re positioned perfectly to avoid the cruise ship crowds. When those massive ships dock and thousands of people pour through Pile Gate, you can literally slip out through the quieter eastern side of the old town. Plus, you’re close enough to walk to Banje Beach in about ten minutes, but far enough from the late-night bar scene that you’ll actually get some sleep. Parking is always a nightmare in Dubrovnik, but they’ve got arrangements with nearby spots, and honestly, once you’re there, you won’t need a car anyway. The check-in process was smooth – no standing around in lobbies or dealing with crowds like you get at the bigger hotels.

I stayed there during shoulder season in early October, and it was perfect – still warm enough for swimming, but the summer madness had died down. The staff genuinely seems to know the area and can point you toward things like the best konoba for black risotto (there’s one tucked away near the Dominican monastery that tourists never find) or which section of the walls to climb first to beat the crowds. The 8.8 rating makes total sense when you experience it – it’s not trying to be a fancy resort, but it nails what most people actually want: a clean, comfortable base in an incredible location where you can live like a local for a few days. If you’re the type who wants to really explore Dubrovnik rather than just tick it off a list, this is your spot.