Location and size
The city of Dubrovnik is situated in the very south of the Republic of Croatia. It occupies an area of 364.05 square kilometers, extending from the Duboka Ljuta gorge in the east, near the village of Plat, to Imotica in the west - a distance of 53 kilometers.

The city of Dubrovnik is surrounded by a group of islands known as the Elaphite archipelago (Šipan, Lopud, Koločep, Tajan, Olipa, Jakljan and Daksa).

Population
The population of 55,638 is distributed over the area at 35 locations with 17,480 households, and with an average density of 152 inhabitants per square kilometer.

Language
Croatian is the official language spoken in Dubrovnik. English is taught as a second language in schools. Other international languages are also fluently spoken.

Climate
The geographical position of the area is typical of a Mediterranean or 'estasian' climate with mild and damp winters, and hot dry summers with quite low air humidity (approx. 2,600 sunny hours).
The average annual precipitation is 1,250 mm.

The average air temperature is 17°C and the summer sea temperature is approx 21°C. A maximum variation of 4°C is very beneficial for overall general health. There are many sunny days during the winter months.

The gentle Maestral wind - the messenger of lovely weather, refreshes the average summer temperature of 25°C.
The Bura and Jugo winds prevail during the cooler months.

Flora & Fauna
There is a wealth of contrast with the many bays, beaches, steep cliffs and densely wooded islands.

There is a rich variety of flora: cypress, pine, olive groves, vineyards, and lemon and orange plantations - together with aromatic herbs and flowers, plus exotic plants, such as palm trees, agave and cactus, which create a unique atmosphere. Nature lovers can discover a true Mediterranean landscape. Sailors will enjoy the many marinas and crystal blue sea.

Rich Cultural heritage
Dubrovnik, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is rich in cultural and historical monuments. There is also the annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

The city is also the venue for numerous scientific, scholarly and literary conferences (PEN in 1933 and 1993), as well as international tourism congresses (ASTA, FUAAV, DRV, SNAV, etc.).

Credit cards, Shopping
Foreigners can claim a sales tax refund within one year for purchased goods. Don’t forget to ask the salesman to fill out the tax refund form when purchasing goods.

All major credit cards are normally accepted throughout Croatia, as advertised at points of sale, such as: American Express, Diners Club, Euro card/Master Card, Visa, JCB, and Eurocheques. Traveler’s Cheques are also accepted.

Currency & Exchange
The basic Croatian currency unit is the Kuna, made up of 100 Lipa. Foreign currency can be exchanged for local money at banks, post offices and exchange offices, according to the valid rates of exchange. 

Electricity: 220 V, 50 Hz

Health Insurance / Medical Services
Foreign tourists do not pay for medical services if a Health Care Convention was signed between Croatia and the country of origin.

Opening Hours
Banks and post offices are normally open from 8 a.m. to 7 or 8 p.m. Non-Governmental offices work from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Most grocery stores and department stores are open non-stop, from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 or 8 p.m.

Public Holidays
January 01st - New Year’s Eve,
Easter and Easter Monday,
May 01st International Labor Day,
Corpus Christi,June 22nd - Antifascist Struggle Day,
June 25th - Creational National Day,
August 05th - Victory Day and National Thanksgiving Day, August 15th – Assumption Day,
October 08th - Independence Day,
November 01st - All Saint's Day,
December 25th and 26th - Christmas Holidays.

Taxes
A tax refund is available to foreign citizens for purchased goods exceeding 500 Kuna, providing that the form entitled "Porezni ček" (Tax Cheque) is stamped by a customs officer upon leaving the country.

Water
Tap water is drinkable in all parts of Croatia