Larger ships often dock in suburban Dubrovnik, where you can hop a bus or take a taxi to the historic Old Town. Some smaller ships are able to dock right in the midst of this medieval treasure, which is best experienced by walking tour. Under the terracotta roofs, you’ll find centuries-old monasteries, churches, synagogues and even one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe.
Get your bearings by first walking atop the Old Town city walls. About 80 feet high, the walls provide a birds-eye view of the historic heart of the city, the sparkling Adriatic, and the brooding mountains to the east.
Come down from the walls to walk along the narrow, cobblestoned streets (there’s no vehicle traffic in the Old Town). Take a selfie beside a fountain, such as the “big” and “small” Onofrio’s Fountains at either end of Stradun, a limestone-paved street that connects the east and west entrances to the Old Town. Look at the Renaissance-era structures that survived the massive earthquake of 1667, such as the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace. Browse the quirky shops, then claim a table at an open-air café and enjoy a little fresh seafood or a rozata, Dubrovnik’s signature dessert.
If you’re a fan of the popular TV show Game of Thrones, you can take a walking tour of locations used for the show. Dubrovnik is the real-life location of King’s Landing, the capital of the realm’s seven kingdoms. You can see where Ayra Stark hid from the Lannisters, the city walls attacked by the Baratheons and Lovrijenac Fortress, featured in the Battle of Blackwater.
It’s easy to spend an entire day in the Old Town. There’s a lot to see, and the people-watching is top-notch. But, there are also wonderful beaches near Old Town harbor, where you can enjoy the view and soak up the sun. Or, take a boat excursion to a nearby island. The forested island of Mljet is considered to be one of the most beautiful along the Dalmatian Coast. If you’d like an active shore excursion, try a bike tour (some include a bit of wine-tasting, too).
To find a cruise that will take you to wonderful Dubrovnik, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.
