Dubrovnik, Croatia

 One of our most anticipated spots was Dubrovnik, Croatia.  This city has become a popular tourist destination over the last few years, and we were lucky to visit during a time when it wasn't too crowded.  Dubrovnik is along the Dalmatian coast, and this was the first city that we had to get off at distant dock and get bused into the city.

The ride to the city proper only takes about 20 minutes, and you'll get some nice views of the city and coastline, with the buses making a few spots for pictures.

The most impressive part of this UNESCO World Heritage site is the ancient city wall surrounding the old town center, and you'll notice this wall a soon as you get close to the city.  The wall is also a big reason why this town is used frequently for films and television shows such as Game of Thrones.  Once inside the city walls, our wonderful local guide showed us around the narrow alleys and cobbled streets while providing plenty of color commentary.  There are also plenty of local shops and restaurants both on the main street as well as offshoots.

We even got to see what is supposedly some of the world's oldest graffiti from 1597.

 Unfortunately, we were in Dubrovnik on a Sunday, so some of the museums were closed.  In addition to the museums, one of Europe's oldest pharmacy was also closed, so we were unable to try out their famous rose cream.

Even though it was a Sunday, the city walls are open every day.  This is the biggest draw for tourist, which I think is reflected in the fee of 150 Croatian Kuna which seems to be steadily rising over the past few years.  Croatia is a recent member of the EU, although they haven't converted their official currency to the Euro.  Most shops and restaurants in Croatia would accept Euro based on our experiences, but official governmental businesses will not.  The wall offices do accept credit cards if you don't want to convert a lot of currency.  You may also want to consider the Dubrovnik Card, which for the 1 day pass costs about the same as the city wall entrance fee, although also includes some of the local museums.  We did not get the card, as most of the other locations were closed on Sunday.  Regardless of what the cost is when you arrive, I would recommend still doing the walk of the city walls, as once you make the climb up all the stairs you'll be treated to some amazing views.

 

 

 

In addition to the surrounding seascape, you'll also get to a great overview of the city itself.  Part of the city were damaged during the break-up of Yugloslavia.  After the war, the UNESCO people came in and repaired the damage using the same materials which were used with the original constructions hundred of years ago.  However, given the relatively recent repairs, the new roofs in particular stand in contrast to the more worn areas.

 

 

 

The wall was bigger than I imaged, taking us about an hour or so to walk around with frequent pictures.  There are a decent amount of steps, so it would be difficult for anyone with disabilities.  The weather was a bit overcast, although we didn't have any rain until around the time we were leaving, but I'd image the stone stairs and walkways get a bit slippery when wet.

 

 The nearby fortress of Fort Lovrjenac is also included with the entrance to the walls and is worth checking out for some more great views.

Overall, we had a great experience in Dubrovnik, although I would recommend visiting on a day besides Sunday to be able to experience as much as the city has to offer.  After a weather delay resulting in a change of schedule, our next stop was Corfu, Greece.