Dubrovnik
This is an amazing walled city! The highlights include the aquarium, which is built along the walls. The inside is made of stone. It's a very cool place on a hot day, but where comfortable shoes, as the floors are also stone and can be slippery. Walk around the top of the walls for the best views of the city. Other great sites include the Old Synagog, Franciscan Monastery, St Savior's Church (don't forget the fountain outside) Dubrovnik Cathedral. The churches and synagog only take a short time to see and worth stopping in, to see the uniqueness of the architecture. The Maritime Museum houses great artifacts of Dubrovnik's sea history. War Memorial shows pictures of the devestation of the 1990s war and has pictures of all those who died. It's amazing to see how quickly Dubrovnik has repaired itself. Outside there is a costumed Croatian who, for a price, will give you a certificate of citizenship for Dubrovnik. The original can be found in the Maritime Museum, so it is a true copy. You can see all of the main sites of the city easily in one day, since they are close together and most attractions are on the small side.
There is some good shoppiong in Dubrovnik as well. The farmer's market has great local crafts, including many lavendar gifts. The lavendar in Croatia is some of the best in the world. You must go in the morning to the market square, as it closes early. Buy a Croatian tie, as this is the birthplace of ties and the quality is excellent. Croatian wine is not exported to the United States, so bring some home, it's delicious.
The best highlight of the city is a medieval dinner cruise. If I remember right, Richard the Lionheart was stranded off the coast of Dubrovnik and when he finally landed built the main cathedral as a token for his safe passage. So, he is celebrated with this cruise. Everyone is dressed in period costume, with jugglers musicians and lots of fun. The captain of the ship, owns it himself and his wife cooks all the food on the ship. Some of the best food we ate! The tour takes you along the coast with stunning views of the city and brings you to a few of the little islands. The ship is absolutely glorious!
Food in Dubrovnik is delicious! It's mostly seafood but we did try bear sausage! I'm not a huge fan of fish, but ate it regularly and it was phenominal due to the herbs and seasonings.
If you are going to be in Dubrovnik for more than a day, stay at an all-inclusive resort. They are great! Lots to do, with the beaches and games and a short bus trip into the city. Try to plan a visit into the city on the days when the cruise ships are not in port, you can ask at your hotel. The city is alot busier then. Most of the ships leave in the early afternon, so you could go in the afternoon and visit into the evening for less congestion. Skip the three island tour that many small ships are offering, it's very boring on two of the islands, with nothing to do but walk around.
Most Dubrovniks speak English and it's easy to get around. However, try a few phrases in Croatian and they will definitely be pleased. Your service and deals will be better.
This was one of my favorite cities in Europe!