Completely enclosing the Old Town and studded with towers, bastions and gates, Dubrovnik’s Walls provide superb views of Dubrovnik’s red-roofs and steeples, as well as breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea and its islands. A secure pedestrian parapet runs along their crenellated heights.

Visitors proceed clockwise, climbing and descending steps as the walls negotiate Dubrovnik’s craggy geography.

History

The essential shape of the walls was established by the major fortification efforts of the thirteenth century, although they were subsequently strengthened and augmented many times. Major features include the Fortress of St John at the eastward side; and the Minčeta Fortress at the northwestern corner, a stout barrel-shaped tower.

Practicalities

Unsurprisingly, the city walls come near the top of every traveller’s bucket-list, which ensures that they are very busy in summer: queues are long, movement is slow, and temperatures can be stifling. Visitors are well advised to go early and take appropriate headgear. Online reservations for specific time slots are possible via the walls’ website.