Dubrovnik 3-day itinerary

For dazzling views over Dubrovnik’s old town rooftops and the Adriatic, this 2km stroll around the battlements is an absolute must.

Among the best-preserved city fortifications in the world, they date back to the 13th century but were reinforced when the Ottoman Turks threatened in the 15th century.

Standing up to 24m high and 6m wide, they have deterred would-be aggressors for many centuries, but today they’re a major tourist attraction.

Dubrovnik’s best-known beach, just a short walk from the Ploce Gate, Banje has spectacular views of the Old Town and is backed with a clutch of cafes and restaurants.

This daily market is the place to come to mingle with locals buying fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil and locally-produced Grappa – come early in the morning for the best produce, it closes by lunchtime.

The administrative heart of the Republic of Dubrovnik in the 16th and 17th centuries, the palace is now a museum with furniture, artifacts and artworks dating back to the era of the Republic.

This 14th-century monastery centres on a charming late Romanesque cloister, with a lovely hidden garden of orange trees and towering palms.

Highlights include a Renaissance-Baroque church built after the 1667 earthquake, a small museum containing religious art and artefacts belonging to the Franciscan order, and, oddly, the world’s oldest working pharmacy, which was founded in 1318 and is still functioning today, complete with exhibits from the distant past.

Covered with pine forests and lush Mediterranean vegetation, and sprinkled with olive groves, vineyards and 16th-century villas, the pristine Elafiti Islands make for a fabulous day-trip from Dubrovnik. The water is crystal-clear waters and there are countless secluded coves to explore.

The three largest islands, Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan, are inhabited all year round, though it’s during the summer months that they come to life, offering a charming selection of laid-back cafés and seafood restaurants.

Beach-lovers should head to Sunj, on the lush green island of Lopud, one of the islands’ few sandy beaches, with warm, shallow waters ideal for children.

One of the best ways to explore the islands is by kayak; numerous tour operators offer guided kayaking day-trips or longer expeditions. If you prefer something a bit more relaxing, you can opt for one a sail- or speedboat, either on an organised tour or a private charter.

There can be few kayaking tours in the world as spectacular and memorable as this one. See the magnificent medieval walls from the outside, and appreciate how they must have appeared to potential invaders, and access parts of this beautifully unspoiled coastline, away from the crowds.

Starting from gorgeous Sveti Jakov Beach, you’ll paddle around the walls and across idyllic azure blue waters for a picnic lunch on the tiny green island of Lokrum.

For more experienced kayakers – or those looking for more adventure – full-day tours take in more islands, cliffs and sea caves, or explore maritime Dalmatia at length on a week-long tour of the coast and offshore islands.

This small wine shop in the heart of the Old Town sells wines straight from the Peljesac peninsula, plus Croatian deli items including fruit spirits, preserves and sweets.

A tiny shop selling understated jewellery and fashion accessories by Croatian artists. Some original clothes too.