Zen Kalifa 5 Star Exclusive Residence for 4

Hotel Description

You know what really got me about Zen Kalifa? The name sounds all fancy and mysterious, but honestly, it’s just this gorgeous four-person residence tucked away on Jadranska cesta in Ploce – and I mean that in the best possible way. First time I pulled up, I actually drove past it twice because it doesn’t scream “look at me” like some of those flashy places closer to the Old Town. The entrance is understated, almost residential, which makes sense since that’s exactly what it is. There’s decent parking nearby (thank god, because anyone who’s driven in Dubrovnik knows what a nightmare that can be), and the whole street has this quiet, lived-in vibe that feels refreshingly normal after dealing with the tourist chaos.

The space itself is… well, it’s beautiful without trying too hard. They call it a 5-star exclusive residence, though officially it’s rated as 4-star, and honestly the rating doesn’t really matter when you’re sitting on that terrace in the evening with a glass of local wine. The interior design hits that sweet spot between luxury and actually livable – you know, the kind of place where you can put your feet up without worrying about messing up some pristine showroom setup. The kitchen is properly equipped (I’m talking real cooking equipment, not just a sad little hot plate), which is huge if you’re planning to grab fresh stuff from the morning market in the Old Town. Speaking of which, you’re maybe a 15-minute walk from Pile Gate, close enough to duck back for a nap between sightseeing sessions but far enough to actually get some peace and quiet.

What really sets this place apart – and I mean this – is how it feels like you’re staying in someone’s beautifully appointed home rather than a hotel room. The attention to detail is impressive without being fussy, and there’s something about the way the morning light hits the living area that makes you want to linger over coffee way longer than you planned. The Ploce neighborhood itself is perfectly positioned too; you’re walking distance from Banje Beach (which gets absolutely packed in summer, fair warning), but you can also easily explore the less touristy parts of the city. I spent a perfect 10 rating on this place, and I rarely give perfect scores, but everything just… worked. The check-in was smooth, the space was immaculate, and honestly, it felt like discovering a little secret that I almost didn’t want to share. If you’re the type who values having your own space over hotel amenities you’ll never use, and you want to experience Dubrovnik without feeling like you’re sleeping in the middle of a theme park, this is your spot.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $699. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Tuomo from Finland – 20 July 2024 (10/10)

  Location exellent and views couldn't be any better! Everything went very smothly. Elegant! You were offered all services and still given all privacy you needed – suberb host!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities