Karmen Apartments
Bandureva 1, Dubrovnik 20000 Croatia
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About
#1 of 335 condos in Dubrovnik
Location
5.0
Rooms
4.8
Value
4.7
Cleanliness
4.9
Service
4.9
Sleep Quality
4.7
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Karmen Apartments "Personal character and charm within the ramparts." REVIEW The fabulous location right within the ramparts of Old Town would be reason enough to stay here. But with so many fascinating details and your enthralling Anglo-Canadian host, this is a place that you just won't want to leave. Marc van Bloemen has lived in Dubrovnik since 1972, speaks fluent Croat and probably knows more local history than most locals. Every inch of his fine stone mansion is decorated with art, souvenirs, old photos and fascinating keepsakes. From kitschy collages of sea-smoothed glass 'pebbles', to the 1923 'character wall' or the original Marcel Marceau self-portrait, every item tells a story. All rooms are comfortable, air-conditioned and offer a little kitchenette. There's even free wi-fi. Room No 2 features wonderful Deakin semi-naive still-life paintings. It has a small balcony overlooking partly overgrown walls albeit with no real views. The smallest (and cheapest) ground-floor room displays a framed series of Vasko Lipovac prints and was used as the make-up room when the BBC filmed Casanova here during November 2004.
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Property amenities
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Baggage storage
Non-smoking hotel
Private check-in / check-out
Room features
Air conditioning
Safe
Seating area
Kitchenette
Microwave
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Hair dryer
Kitchenware
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Croatian
Location
Bandureva 1, Dubrovnik 20000 Croatia
Getting there
Great for walkers
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 100 out of 100
100
198 Restaurants
within 0.3 miles
Reviews
4.9
(615)
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Karmen Apartments has earned a reputation for its prime location near Old Town, with guests frequently mentioning the easy access to attractions and delightful nearby gelato shop. The establishment is praised for its unique charm and welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel at home amidst the historic surroundings. Accommodations are spacious and praised for their cleanliness and modern art.
Reviewers consistently commend the attentive service and the value provided, especially during the off-season. The well-equipped kitchens and cozy furnishings are among the amenities that contribute to the hotel's popularity.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Affordable
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed
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Detailed Reviews
If there is one way to measure how much a hotel/apartment stay/airbnb cares about its' visitors, it's how good the toilet paper is. And Karmen Apartments/Van Bloemen Apartments cares a LOT. Marc was an amazing host and is truly a wealth of knowledge about Dubrovnik and the best places to visit/eat. I arrived close to midnight and Marc was able to arrange a car pick up for me and met me at the gate of Old Town to ensure I would not be wandering around looking for the apartments. Karmen Apartments/Van Bloemen Apartments was the perfect size for one person and could definitely fit up to three. The kitchenette was perfect for my needs and I was able to cook multiple meals for myself. During my 10 day stay, Marc also offered changing of the sheets and clean up twice, which is more than I could hope for. Not only that, Karmen Apartments/Van Bloemen Apartments sits right above Gianni's, a wonderfully delicious and addicting ice cream shop. I tried a different flavor every day and each one was amazing. The location of the apartments is also perfect and you can oftentimes see people walking the walls around Old Town. It's close to multiple restaurants, bars, and to the different gates leading out of the city. Don't wait to book your stay at Karmen Apartments/Van Bloemen Apartments! You won't regret it!!
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Traveled solo
Value
Rooms
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Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were very comfortable in our apartments at Karmen and much appreciated the convenient location of the house being so close to the things we wanted to see and do. Wandering around Dubrovnik it's clear that many houses have been turned into holiday apartments but so many of them involve negotiating a lot of steps to reach them. We were very glad Karmen involved just a few!
Marc (the proprietor) is very helpful indeed. He arranged for us to be picked up at the airport and to be taken back on our return home. When we arrived he came out to the Ploce Gate to meet us and guide us the few minutes walk to the apartments.
The house is right next to the walls and there are restaurants and cafes (including Gianni's Gelateria run by Marc's son) down below. That said our apartments were very quiet indeed.
On a practical point, it's worth noting that cars and taxis are not allowed inside the old city so you have to walk the last bit (suitcases can be wheeled, contrary to some reports). There is also an airport bus service but that goes to the Pile Gate which is also the main drop off point for tour parties etc. Returning to the airport it picks up at the cable car station which is a bit above (ie up hill from) the Ploce Gate.
Marc (the proprietor) is very helpful indeed. He arranged for us to be picked up at the airport and to be taken back on our return home. When we arrived he came out to the Ploce Gate to meet us and guide us the few minutes walk to the apartments.
The house is right next to the walls and there are restaurants and cafes (including Gianni's Gelateria run by Marc's son) down below. That said our apartments were very quiet indeed.
On a practical point, it's worth noting that cars and taxis are not allowed inside the old city so you have to walk the last bit (suitcases can be wheeled, contrary to some reports). There is also an airport bus service but that goes to the Pile Gate which is also the main drop off point for tour parties etc. Returning to the airport it picks up at the cable car station which is a bit above (ie up hill from) the Ploce Gate.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Karmen apartment is the sort of charming and character- filled place you rarely find anymore. Right at the city walls, yet surprisingly quiet thanks to the good windows, this really is a memorable place to stay. We loved waking up in the morning and opening the shutters to look out at the first people already walking the walls. The small second room in our apartment was perfect for our thirteen year old, but if you have a larger teen or adult in the party it may be best to check. Marc the owner is someone with a fascinating personal backstory and his approach to making us feel at home was spot on. We were very grateful for his organising of the taxi pickup and little things like supplying free beach towels for us all. Historical, cool thanks to the air con, furnished with love and a friendly host: what more could you ask for?
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Karmen Apartments were a fantastic place to stay, starting from the recommended driver who picked us up from the airport through to a seamless departure/checkout process. Marc was a terrific host and excellent communicator, responding quickly and thoroughly to several emails before our stay. He met us at the taxi stand, helped with our bags, suggested restaurants and attractions, etc. Dubrovnik was our favorite stop in Croatia, and Marc and Karmen Apartments were a big part of that!
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Date of stay: September 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We had a fantastic 3 day stay at Karmen Apartments, Dubrovnik. Location was perfect, just inside the old walls, but easy access to locals swim spot ( directions provided by Marc) to escape the heat and crowds. Our apartment too was an oasis of cool, calm, and Croatian character with everything we needed to self cater when we felt like it. Loved our little balcony! Marc was a brilliant host, meeting us at the Gate to navigate us to the building, gave us excellent local recommendations and was always available to answer any questions. I highly recommend this listing!
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
First of all, we loved Dubrovnik and was there for 5 nights (April 30-May 5). We were so thankful that we reserved our accommodations with Karen apartments. Second, Marc went above and beyond with all aspects of our scheduling and arriving, as well as taking care of us when we were there. His suggestions were great, and he even after 3 days, did a major clean of our apartment; no other place did this. Third, the apartment (we were in apartment 3), itself was lovely. From the time you entered, you feel like you are in someone's home. With all the details of books, antiques, etc., it was such a cosy place to stay. There were plenty of storage and all the rooms were great. I especially loved the corner table with comfortable seating. By the way, if there is just the two of you, taking the shuttle down to the gate, is fast and inexpensive (euros a person). It is located outside the baggage area. Thanks Marc for a wonderful stay (I should have sent this earlier, but better late than not at all).
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Date of stay: May 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Book early and Apartment 3 is great for couples.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My husband and I really liked this place for several reasons. It was in a very good location in the old city. We didn’t need a car to do a thing. Marc, the owner, arranged a ride from the Dubrovnik airport that was much more reasonable than a taxi and he meet us to lead us to the front door so we wouldn’t get lost. The interior is homey and funky in a good way. We felt like we were actually in Europe in a quaint apartments. It was clean and had an efficiency kitchen. Marc also gave us some good restaurant recommendations and showed us key locations on a map of the old city. I would stay again!
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â If you have a car just park it outside the old city and travel on foot.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
You couldn't wish for a better location. The apartments are within a fine town house just inside the city walls. From our room (Apartment 1) you could almost touch the ramparts – and there were partial views of the old harbour beyond. The house is tucked down a peaceful narrow alley yet within a stone's throw of the main attractions. Our ebullient host, Marc was a mine of information on the history and sights of Dubrovnik. He also has a fascinating background and will regale you with entertaining stories of life as a youngster at the Troubadour Coffee Shop in Earl's Court (which in its heyday hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan and Charlie Watts), owned and run by his parents. Marc has lived in Dubrovnik with his family since 1972. He is the ideal host – nothing is too much trouble (eg he sent us a whole host of useful websites before we arrived and advised on our ongoing travels in Croatia). The house is welcoming, relaxed and full of character, every inch covered in paintings, prints, maps and photos. There are dozens of guidebooks, old and new, in the entrance hall. Our apartment (No 1), up one flight of stairs, was comfy, homely and quirky, with ceramics, crafts and artwork. There are nice thoughtful touches such as the welcoming bowl of fruit and the big beach towels in the cupboard. A kitchenette gives you the freedom to make your own meals (there is a food shop and market nearby). Marc will give you a map marking the main sights and recommended restaurants. If you’re feeling lazy there’s a restaurant with outside tables on the same street plus a great gelataria/café run by his son.
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Date of stay: May 2022
Location
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marc was a responsive and gracious host. Our apartment was perfect for 2 friends traveling together for the first time in Croatia. The beds were comfortable, there were plenty of towels and the kitchen stocked with everything we needed. And the location was amazing, so close to the wall surrounding the city, restaurants and shops. And the best part of the location was the Gelato / coffee shop, Gianni that was located right outside the entrance. We visited at least twice each day we were staying at the Karmen apartments.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Traveled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It’s a cozy efficiency apartment in the heart of Dubrovnik, above a quiet side street but just steps away from the main square and the Stradun.
Marc made it very homey with things like complimentary fruit, a tea kettle and tea, everything needed for cooking, and many other personal touches. The air conditioning worked great and made it cool for an afternoon nap even during the hottest hours of the day.
I will definitely always stay there whenever I return to Dubrovnik!
Marc made it very homey with things like complimentary fruit, a tea kettle and tea, everything needed for cooking, and many other personal touches. The air conditioning worked great and made it cool for an afternoon nap even during the hottest hours of the day.
I will definitely always stay there whenever I return to Dubrovnik!
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
You can google "Karmen Apartments" to find the website.
Hope this helps.
Contact, Marc, via .... karmendu online
Dear Nada,
So sorry, I do not have a vacancy for the reqested dates.
Best wishes,
Karmen Apartments
Dear Sir/ Madam,
Unfortunately we are booked. I do hope you find a place and enjoy your stay.
Best wishes,
Karmen Apartments
Unfortunately we only have a vacancy in one apartment for the requested dates,
Best wishes,
Marc van Bloemen
"From the city gates, you must walk into the old town. Marc met us at the gate. No elevator, only stairs, part of the ambiance."Read full review
"To get the best photos, get up and out early as the sun rises. As expected, the old town gets very busy with tourists during the day."Read full review
"Dubrovnik gets very busy during the day when cruise ships are in. Surgest doing boat trip those days. "Read full review
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LOCATION
CroatiaDalmatiaDubrovnik-Neretva CountyDubrovnik
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
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Frequently Asked Questions about Karmen Apartments
Which popular attractions are close to Karmen Apartments?
Nearby attractions include Old Town (0.1 miles), Dubrovnik City Walls (0.2 miles), and Cruises With Karaka (0.03 miles).
Which room amenities are available at Karmen Apartments?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What are some restaurants close to Karmen Apartments?
Conveniently located restaurants include Ezza Steak & Cocktail Bar, Soul Kitchen, and Gradska Kavana Arsenal.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Karmen Apartments?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Croatian.
Are there any historical sites close to Karmen Apartments?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Dubrovnik City Walls (0.2 miles), Cruises With Karaka (0.03 miles), and St. John's Fortress (0.01 miles).