The first thing you'll see as you approach Dubrovnik from the sky or the sea is the city walls. These ancient fortifications were built and rebuilt in the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries as the threat of Turkish invaders grew. At some points, the walls are almost 20 feet thick and 82 feet high. They enclose the entire Old Town, protected by strategically placed forts and towers.

Since the eminent threat of invaders has dissipated, the walls have become a tourist favorite. Atop the city walls, you'll enjoy some of the best views of Dubrovnik's tiled-roof buildings and the blue sea. During the Summer Festival, Shakespeare plays and other performances take place in some of the forts along the wall. A recent IgoUgo.com visitor advises: "Make sure your cameras prepared and you have something to drink and a hat (the Dalmatian sun can take a heavy toll on you if you're not prepared -- there's very little shade on the walls). There's also some stair climbing along the way, so children might better wait down below."