The Pucić Palace

The Pucić Palace is the address for travellers who want to sleep inside the walls in real style. It occupies a Mediterranean Baroque palace at Od Puča 1, right in the heart of the Old Town. Waking up here means you can walk the empty lanes early in the morning before the day visitors arrive, and come back for a rest in the afternoon heat.

The hotel describes its building as steeped in history and artwork, and the rooms and suites are named after famous citizens of Dubrovnik. Each mixes antiques and artworks with modern comforts, so you sleep among period pieces without giving up modern amenities. Rooms vary in size and outlook, as is typical of a historic palace, so discuss your preferences when you book.

There are two places to eat and drink. Lucijan Restaurant and Café is the spot for morning coffee and a relaxed meal, while Restaurant Magdalena serves dinner from up high, with a view over the Old Town rooftops. Services include beach access, transfers, porterage, health and beauty treatments, parking arrangements and newspapers on request, and pets are accepted. Porterage is especially valuable here, because cars cannot reach the door and luggage has to travel through pedestrian streets.

This is a hotel for couples and travellers who value atmosphere and location above resort facilities: there is no pool, and the beach involves a short trip. Families with older children will enjoy being in the middle of everything, but the Old Town is noisy on summer evenings, so light sleepers should ask for a quieter room.

Prices are at the luxury level. The hotel's homepage does not state its winter schedule, so contact reservations directly for stays between November and March. Book well in advance for summer, and arrange your transfer and porterage with the hotel before you arrive. Staying inside the walls also means you can visit the busiest sights, such as the city walls and the Rector's Palace, at the quietest times of day, simply by stepping out of the door early or late. For many guests that convenience alone justifies the price. Ask the staff for recommendations for restaurants and bars nearby, and let the hotel know your arrival time so that porterage can be arranged.