Rolling suitcases have become a staple for travelers, making it easy to move through airports and city streets with ease. However, their convenience comes at a cost—noise. In a bid to preserve the tranquility of its historic streets, Dubrovnik, Croatia, has decided to ban these wheeled bags.
The Charm and Challenges of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a city that effortlessly draws in tourists with its stunning medieval architecture and enchanting old town. This year alone, tourism in Dubrovnik has surged by an impressive 32% compared to 2022. I remember my visit there last summer—walking through the cobblestone streets felt like stepping back in time. The ancient walls and vibrant history are breathtaking, but the noise from rolling suitcases was hard to ignore.
Why Rolling Suitcases Are Banned
The clash between Dubrovnik’s picturesque cobblestones and the constant rumble of suitcase wheels has become too much for the locals. These historic streets amplify every bump and rattle, turning what should be a peaceful stroll into a noisy nuisance. To address this, Dubrovnik has decided to ban rolling suitcases within the city limits.
Starting November 2023, tourists will need to carry their luggage or make use of a new service. At the city’s entrance, visitors can check their bags into a storage facility. From there, for a small fee, the bags will be delivered directly to their hotel or accommodation. This initiative aims to reduce noise and make the city more enjoyable for both residents and visitors.
The Mayor of Dubrovnik shared, “Travelers will drop off their bags, and we’ll deliver them for a fee to their accommodation. This is just the beginning; our ultimate goal is to establish a logistics center at the airport, so all luggage goes straight to residences.”
Additional Measures for a Better Tourist Experience
The rolling suitcase ban is just one of several measures Dubrovnik is implementing to manage the influx of tourists. The city has introduced rules to ensure the preservation of its historic charm and to respect the local way of life. These include prohibiting the walking of pets without a leash, littering, riding motorcycles or scooters within the old town, climbing monuments, and walking shirtless in the city center. These guidelines are shared with tourists on Croatia Airlines flights and cruise ships arriving in Dubrovnik.
When I think back to my time in Dubrovnik, the idea of a quieter, more serene visit sounds incredibly appealing. The efforts to maintain the city’s character and livability are commendable, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same magical experience that Dubrovnik offers today.