The first thing to realize is that when you visit Dubrovnik, think more about visiting a region. The city itself doesn’t have a lot to do, but the region around the city is glorious. Plan day trips. They will be the best part of your nest.

But first – in the city itself.

By far, the best kept secret is the Old Foundry. This is a must-see! It’s not on the Dubrovnik Card, so few tourists even know it exists, and it’s barely made the guidebooks – but it’s nearly as good as walking the city walls, and it’s a lot cheaper. Start at the upper corner at the Minceta Tower, inside the wall. When we went, it was 40 KN entrance, and you can tour inside the tower (where Daenerys kept her dragons in Game of Thrones) and see the medieval foundry that is beneath the basketball court. But when you pop outside, you’ll be alongside the moat on the north side of the old town, and you can walk down the lower walls there and end on top of the Pile Gate. All the tourists entering and leaving will wonder how you did it! You’ll exit through a secret door right by the Pile gate drawbridge. Very cool, and some great photo opportunities! It would be a really great place to take a picnic.

Every restaurant and hotel advertises the best view in Dubrovnik, but I can tell you where it really is, and it’s free. Gradac Park is the site of the “Purple Wedding” in Game of Thrones, but that’s not the best part. Go into the car park area, to the point at the end. On the left side, there’s a tiny path that leads out to a bench on the point, overlooking the Old City. It’s a spectacular view, hidden away and I think rarely discovered. Another place that would be a great picnic spot.

Outside the city, if you can get access to a car, go south to Sokol Grad, a fortress that is the most authentic-feeling castle-like place I’ve ever seen. You can practically see and hear the soldiers as you explore the site. While you’re in the area, stop off at some of the family vineyards that surround it. You’ll be rewarded by good wine and even better stories. This area was devastated by the war, and the hardy folks who have returned and rebuilt are worth talking to about their experiences if they want to tell you. You’ll also want to take some wine home!

Make sure you check out our day trip page for suggestions.