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Dubrovnik Sea Aquarium

Found at the University of Dubrovnik Institute for Marine and Coastal Research in St John’s Fortress, Dubrovnik Sea Aquarium is part marine zoo and part research center covering the sea life of the Adriatic Sea. This is a small, recently revamped aquarium showcasing the diversity of Croatia’s local marine life in 31 softly lit sea tanks containing turtles, groupers, eels and spiny lobster as well as tiny sea horses, starfish and sea sponges in small pools. Kids love the walk-through glass tunnel underneath the water, which gives glimpses of rare corals and sea urchins, plus bigger species of marine life such as octopuses, sea bass, darting eels and ugly dogfish.

The aquarium’s spectacular location among the stone halls of St John’s Fortress is part of the attraction of a visit; the medieval fort was built in the mid 14th century and forms the south-eastern corner of the defence walls built around Dubrovnik’s Old Town to fend off invasion from the sea. On the upper floors of the fort is the Dubrovnik Maritime Museum, also worth visiting for its study of the city as a maritime trading power in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Practical Info

The aquarium is found in St John’s Fortress and is best accessed on foot through the pedestrianized Old Town of Dubrovnik or as part of a walking tour of the walls.

Kneza Damjana Jude 12, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia 20000, Croatia

Daily 8am–8pm

Adults 40 KN, Children 20 KN

From $ 75

Dover Castle

An imposing fortress looming above the famous White Cliffs of Dover, Dover Castle is not only one of England’s largest and oldest medieval castles, but one of its most strategically important, standing guard over the narrowest point of the English Channel and the first line of defense against mainland Europe.

Although built by William the Conqueror in 1066, Dover Castle actually has a much longer legacy, preceded by an Anglo-Saxon fort and a Roman lighthouse, and seeing battle several times throughout its reign. Visitors can climb the 12th-century Great Tower, walk the battlements, view the ruins of the ancient Roman lighthouse, and even explore the warren of secret wartime tunnels that burrow beneath the castle. There’s also the Princess of Wales' Royal Regiment Museum and a series of exhibitions, where you’ll discover life in the royal court of King Henry II, learn about how the castle was used as a hospital during WWII and relive the horrors of the Siege of 1216.

Practical Info

Dover Castle is located by the port of Dover on the southeast coast of England and is open daily, from April-Oct and weekends only from Nov-March. Opening times vary throughout the year and adult admission at the time of writing is £18.

Dover, South East England, England

Daily Apr-Oct, Weekends Nov-Mar, 9:30AM-6PM

£18

From $ 119

Drottningholm Palace

The private residence of Sweden’s royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s best-preserved 17th-century castles. Over the years successive royal residents have renovated the palace, which is inspired by French and Dutch styles and features lush rococo interiors and multiple baroque gardens.

The Basics

Today you can explore much of Drottningholm’s interior and stroll through its extensive gardens, including the French formal garden and English Park. It’s also possible to explore the Court Theatre, the Castle Church, and the ornate Chinese Pavilion. The royal family resides in the southern wing of palace, but the rest of the complex is open to the public for tours and independent exploration.

Some Stockholm city tours include a visit to Drottningholm Palace, and options are available for both private and group tours. It’s also possible to visit the palace on a boat trip from Stockholm, or visit independently with a Stockholm Pass.

Things to Know Before You Go

Drottningholm Palace is a must-see for history and culture lovers.
Visitor facilities include a visitor center, gift shop, and onsite restaurant.
The palace is accessible to wheelchairs, but strollers are not permitted.
Photography and filming are allowed, but be careful not to use flash.

How to Get There

Drottningholm Palace is located roughly seven miles (11 kilometers) west of Stockholm via Route 275. Travelers can also take the subway (T-bana) to Brommaplan, then change to the bus for Drottningholm. Bus and boat tours from Stockholm are a convenient option and allow you to avoid the hassle of navigation and parking.

When to Get There

Palace hours vary by season, but the grounds tend to be most crowded in summer when Sweden’s weather is typically sunny and warm. During this season, arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Drottningholm for Kids

Families with kids can enjoy child-focused events held at the royal palace throughout the year. Children aged seven and under get free admission to the palace and can partake in activities such as a scavenger hunt for specific animals and plants featured in the palace’s interior rococo decorations.

Drottningholms Slott, Drottningholm 17802, Sweden

Varies

From $ 26

Dubrovnik Ancient City Walls

With their imposing watchtowers looming over the medieval city and dramatic fortifications edging the sea cliffs, Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls are an impressive sight and deserving of their star-attraction status. Dating back to the 10th century, the remarkably preserved walls—among the finest in the world—mark out the perimeter of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offer magnificent views over all corners of the city.

The Basics

Whether you arrive in Dubrovnik by sea or land, the towering city walls will be the first thing you see, and there’s no escaping their presence. The most adventurous way to explore the ancient walls is to walk their entire length, while Dubrovnik walking tours often include a visit to popular lookouts such as the Pile Gate or the Minceta Tower. For the best views of the walls themselves, opt for a boat cruise or sea kayaking excursion and gaze up at the mighty ramparts from the ocean.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is a one-way (counterclockwise) system operating on the walls, so once you start walking, you must continue until the next exit point.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water in summer, as there is little shade atop the walls.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Due to the many steps and uneven ground, the walls are not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

How to Get There

Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls encircle Old Town and are reachable on foot from anywhere in the city’s historic center. The walls’ main entrance is at the Pile Gate on the western wall, but you can also enter from the Minceta Tower in the north and the Ploce Gate in the east.

When to Get There

Dubrovnik’s city walls are open to the public year-round, although opening times vary throughout the year. The walls can get busy during the peak summer months, so it’s best to make an early start to beat the crowds. Avoid walking between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest.

Walking the Dubrovnik City Walls

The best way to experience the walls of Dubrovnik is to hike the 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) circular route, which loops around all of Old Town. Start by climbing up to the ramparts above the Pile Gate, pass the Minceta Tower and Fort Lovrijenac (one of several “Game of Thrones” filming locations in Dubrovnik), and then continue to the Ploce Gate and around the Old City Harbor. Along the way, enjoy spectacular ocean views and admire landmarks including the Dominican Monastery, Revelin Fortress, Mount Srd, and 15th-century Bokar Fortress.

Old Town, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Open daily

From $ 21

Dublin Zoo

A family favorite, this 69-acre (28-hectare) zoo has been around since 1831. Over 400 animals from about 100 different species can be seen across its various sections. In the African Savanna, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches roam, while the Asian Forests exhibit is home to lions, snow leopards, and crested black macaques.

The Basics

Dublin Zoo is a common stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours of Dublin. Some Dublin sightseeing passes also grant free entry to the zoo. Once inside, visitors typically explore the zoo independently, making their way around the various habitats with the aid of a map.

Free keeper talks and feedings take place daily from March through September, and on weekends from October through February. Special workshops, covering topics such as dinosaurs and bird-watching, also take place at the zoo and should be booked in advance.

Things to Know Before You Go

Dublin Zoo is a must for families, with lots of kid-friendly activities available.
Cafés, snack kiosks, and a restaurant can be found within the zoo’s grounds. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns or at picnic tables.
Bring rain gear as much of the zoo is unsheltered and Dublin’s weather can be unpredictable.
The majority of the zoo is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

Dublin Zoo is situated in Phoenix Park. The nearest Luas tram stop is Heuston Station (Red Line), which is a 15-minute walk away, and many Dublin bus lines also stop nearby.

When to Get There

Dublin Zoo is busiest on sunny summer weekends. Consider booking tickets online to avoid waiting around at the ticket booth, or arrive early in the morning before lines form.

Exploring Phoenix Park

If you have any energy left after visiting Dublin Zoo, take some time to stroll around Phoenix Park. One of Europe’s largest urban parks, this vast grassy expanse contains the 203-foot-tall (62-meter-tall) Wellington Monument, Áras an Uachtaráin (the residence of the President of Ireland), the Victorian-era People’s Flower Gardens, and a free-roaming herd of wild deer.

Phoenix Park, Dublin, Ireland

Varies

From $ 41

Dubrovnik Cable Car

Dubrovnik’s distinctive orange cable cars speed 2,500 feet (778 meters) in about three minutes, from the lower station just north of the city walls to the top of Mount Srđ. During the ride, you can enjoy peerless views of Dubrovnik’s terracotta rooftops, the coastline of Dalmatia, and archipelagos sprinkled across the Adriatic Sea.

The Basics

Originally opened in 1969, the cable car was destroyed in the 1990s during the Croatian War of Independence but reopened in 2010. A cable car ride is the best way to access panoramic views from the summit of Mount Srđ, 1,300 feet (405 meters) above sea level. Once you take in the lofty views, head to the souvenir shop for Dalmatian olive oils and landscape paintings, or to Panorama restaurant for traditional Croatian dishes. The Napoleonic-era Fort Imperial also lies on the summit—a historic structure that saw intense action during the Siege of Dubrovnik in 1991.

A city highlight, the Dubrovnik Cable Car is featured on many city tours, including walking tours, buggy safaris, and shore excursions. You can also prebook round-trip tickets online to secure your spot and avoid the hassle of purchasing in destination.

Things to Know Before You Go

Young children must be seated in a stroller and kids up to 12 years old must be supervised by an adult during the cable car ride.
Passengers are required to stand still during the ride so their movement does not cause the cable car to swing.
No food, drink, pets, or bicycles are allowed on the cable car.
Cable car facilities are fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, including access to both stations, the cabin, and onsite restrooms.

How to Get There

The lower station is located on Kralja Petra Krešimira IV. Travelers can leave Dubrovnik Old Town on foot through the Buža Street exit in the city walls and walk five minutes uphill.

When to Get There

Operating hours vary depending on the month, and the cable car runs as soon as there are enough passengers. The last departure from the lower station is 30 minutes before closing time. Opt for an early evening ride to enjoy sunset views of the city and coastline.

Fort Imperial

The 200-year-old fort on top of Mt. Srđ was built by Napoleon and finished on his birthday. The fort now houses the Homeland War Museum commemorating the 1991–95 Croatian War of Independence. Its ground floor has exhibits that chart the siege with the help of maps, graphic images, video testaments, and weaponry.

Petra Krešimira 4, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia, Croatia 20000, Croatia

Varies

From $ 22

Downing Street

Few London addresses are as famous as 10 Downing Street, a Grade I listed Georgian townhouse and the official residence and office of the British Prime Minister since 1735. Centuries of government meetings, important decisions and more than a few scandals have taken place behind the property’s iconic black door (which can be opened only from the inside and even the Prime Minister is not given a key) and former residents have included everyone from Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher to Tony Blair.

For security reasons, access to Downing Street is limited to government officials only and visitors can do little more than peek through the police patrolled iron gates, but it’s still a popular inclusion on visitor’s itineraries, and there’s always the chance of spotting the Prime Minister himself. Those wanting to get a closer look can follow the video tour on the Downing Street website or, if you’re lucky, join one of the Open House London tours that take place over one weekend a year. Keep an eye on next door too - 11 Downing Street is the official residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer and sees a steady stream of British politicians through its doors.

Practical Info

Downing Street is located in the City of Westminster in Central London and is not open to the public.

Downing Street, London, England

From $ 23

Drosselgasse

The winemaking town of Rüdesheim am Rhein sits on the eastern banks of the Rhine and is the region’s second-largest visitor attraction after Cologne Cathedral. It owes its popularity to the little cobbled alleyway of Drosselgasse, which is a mecca of stores, bars and restaurants dedicated to all things German.

Although it’s only 490 feet (150 m) long, this mini-street runs between Oberstrasse and the banks of the Rhine, attracting tourists in their millions to enjoy its half-timbered wooden architecture, with balconies and galleries intricately carved and wreathed in garlands. Sadly, it isn't all original; although some buildings date back to the 15th century, most of the street was rebuilt after World War II. This does not ruin the spectacle and fun of it all, however.

Asbach Brandy and the strong Rudesheimer coffee that accompanies it are just two of the local treats to sample, and nearly all the cafés sell typical Rhineland gourmet specialties such as apple strudel and the cheesy pasta dish Kasespatzle. Wine bars serve up the region’s trademark young pinots and sharp rieslings; the wait staff at the bierkellers flourish long steins full of frothy ice-cold beers; and in summer traditional brass bands play oompah tunes until well after midnight.

Practical Info

Drosselgasse is bustling from around noon until past midnight in the summer. Its lively atmosphere can be enjoyed on a day trip from Frankfurt while also taking in the majestic Rhineland countryside.

Drosselgasse 1, Rüdesheim am Rhein 65385, Germany

From $ 120

Dublin Writers Museum

The Dublin Writers Museum features unique works and memorabilia from famous writers heralding from this city. Letters and personal items from such icons as Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett allow visitors to connect with their favorite Irish authors on a more personal level while also admiring their works, which are also on display. Over 300 years of historical memorabilia and literature are displayed in this charming Georgian house-turned-museum, complete with a library, gallery and lecture rooms. There are also an adjoining bookshop and cafe as well as a basement restaurant that all follow the literary theme.

Built as a centre to honor past Irish literary figures, the museum has also become a place for young aspiring writers to gain perspective and inspiration for their own works. The headquarters for these authors, the Irish Writers' Centre, is conveniently located next door to the museum, providing them a respite to work and share ideas. The relationship between these two institutions illustrates that while Dublin has a rich history of talented writers it also has a group of bright and promising authors destined for future literary success.

Practical Info

The Dublin Writers Museum divides its large collection of literary artifacts into different exhibits. Items in Room 1 of the museum tell the story of Irish literature up until the 19th century and the beginning of the Literary Revival. Room 2's displays pay homage to the great writers of the 20th century. Travel to the top of the grand staircase and enter the Gorham Library, filled with first and rare editions. Next door to the library is the Gallery of Writers, a room decorated with busts and portraits of famous writers where special events and exhibitions are held.

18 Parnell Square North, Dublin 1, Ireland

Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun and Public Holidays 11am - 5pm

Adults: €7.50

From $ 23

Douro River

A major river on the Iberian Peninsula, the Douro River flows from Duruelo de la Sierra in northern Spain all the way to Porto in Portugal, where it empties into the Atlantic Ocean. More than just the region’s lifeline, it’s also the centerpiece of the Douro Valley, Portugal’s most famous wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Basics

Douro River cruises leave from Porto and cruise into the heart of the Douro Valley wine region. Set sail aboard a traditional Rabelo boat for a scenic cruise, stopping to visit historic waterfront towns such as Peso da Régua and Pinhão; discover the winemaking heritage of the Douro region; and sample authentic port wine during guided wine tastings. Full-day tours leave from Porto or Lisbon and typically include hotel pickup, wine tastings, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Things to Know Before You Go

The legal drinking age of 18 applies for all wine tasting in the Douro Valley.
Douro cruises range from 1-hour wine-tasting cruises to multi-day sightseeing cruises.
Some cruises are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance.

How to Get There

Boat trips down the Douro River leave from the quays around Alfândega and Cais de Ribeira in Porto. Both quays can be reached on foot from central attractions such as the Clérigos Tower, Porto Cathedral, and São Bento train station, while tram Line 1, which runs along the river, stops at Alfândega and Infante near the quays.

When to Get There

It’s possible to explore the Douro River region at any time of year, but the busiest time is during the summer season (July–August), when it’s best to book tours and accommodation in advance. The area is at its most picturesque in spring, when the vines are lush and green, or in autumn, when the harvest is in full swing and the vines begin to drop their leaves.

Port Wine

Portugal’s world-renowned port wine is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley. With a history of winemaking dating back to the 12th century as well as 300 years of exporting port wines, it’s impossible to explore the region without sampling its legendary elixir. The sweet fortified drink is typically known as a red dessert wine, but tawny port (wood-aged red port), rosé port, white port, and vintage ports are also available.

Portugal

From $ 14

Drombeg Stone Circle

Known to locals as the Druid's Altar, the Drombeg Stone Circle is one of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Ireland, boasting an idyllic setting, amid rolling farmlands. Dating back to as early as 1100 BC but still in use up to the 5th century AD, the megalithic site consists of seventeen standing stones, measuring up to two meters high. Thought to have been used as a burial or sacrifice site, excavations uncovered a fire pit and the remains of cremated bones buried at the center of the circle.

Forty meters west of the stones lie the ruins of two Iron Age huts, and a ‘fulacht fiadh’, a traditional outdoor kitchen, which includes a hearth on which stones were heated, and a trough, into which the hot stones were dropped to boil the water.

Insider’s Tip: The most atmospheric time to visit the ruins is during the winter solstice, when the setting sun lines up with the recumbent stone at the head of the circle.

Practical Info

Drombeg Stone Circle is located on Ireland’s southwest coast around 70km southwest of Cork. There is no admission fee.

Drombeg, West Cork, Cork, Ireland

From $ 45

Dragon Bridge

At each entrance to Ljubljana’s dramatic Dragon Bridge, a pair of menacing green dragons stand watch, their stone-sculpted wings poised for flight and fire-breathing tongues darting out of their mouths. Erected in 1901, the striking quartet of dragons have become one of the city’s most memorable landmarks, but the statues are more than just aesthetic monuments. The mythical creatures are not only symbolic of the city’s founding (allegedly settled by Jason and the Argonauts after valiantly defeating a dragon) but local legend dictates that the dragons will swish their tails when the bridge is crossed by a virgin.

Crossing the Ljubljanica River just east of the equally impressive Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge is now one of the city’s most important bridges, connecting the modern city with the Old Town. Originally built and named for the Hapsburg Emperor, Franc Jozef, the more fitting nickname of the ‘Dragon bridge’ soon stuck, but the inscription of the side of the bridge still reads his dedication. The masterpiece of Dalmatian architect Jurij Zaninovic, the bridge is a much-celebrated example of the city’s Art Nouveau architecture, constructed from reinforced concrete and decorated with elaborate balustrades and original 20th-century street lamps.

Connecting Kopitarjeva ulica and Resljeva cesta, Ljubljana, Slovenia

From $ 25

Dubrovnik Cruise Port

The Adriatic city of Dubrovnik has a picturesque medieval district known as a filming location for the Game of Thrones television series. Dubrovnik shore excursions run the gamut, and include expeditions up and down the Dalmatian Coast, city and wine-tasting tours, and, of course, Game of Thrones-themed tours.

The Basics

Compact with marble streets and a slew of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Old Town Dubrovnik is easy to see during one day in port. Many shore excursions begin at Pile Gate, one of Old Town’s main entrances dating back to 1537, and continue along the pedestrian Stradun to the city walls. Inside these old walls are incredible churches—including St. Saviour’s and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin—as well as Sponza Palace, a 16th-century Gothic-Renaissance structure that houses the State Archives. The Dubrovnik cable car offers excellent views of the city and coast from atop Mount Srd. Other shore excursions allow visitors to kayak in the Adriatic Sea or check out surrounding coastal towns such as Cavtat. Dubrovnik also serves as a jumping-off point for farther-flung adventures in the Mediterranean.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re exploring Dubrovnik on foot, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for some steep streets.
The steep, narrow, and often cobblestoned streets make travel by wheelchair or with a stroller difficult.
To eliminate the hassle of flagging down a taxi or navigating public transport, book a shore excursion that includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

How to Get to Dubrovnik from the Dubrovnik Cruise Port

The port in Gruz, a neighborhood about two miles (three kilometers) north of Old Town, is the most common docking spot for arriving cruisers. Otherwise, the ship may dock in the Old Town harbor or anchor in the bay; from there, passengers will be tendered into Old Town. Buses or taxis are available outside both ports.

Port Information

English is widely spoken in Dubrovnik. The Croatian currency is the kuna; euros are occasionally but not always accepted. Get cash from the Gruz port or the ATMs located around town.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

From $ 20

Dublin City Hall

Built in the late 18th century as Dublin’s Royal Exchange, this grand Georgian building was designed by renowned architect Thomas Cooley. Nowadays, it hosts Dublin City Council meetings and a multimedia exhibition in the basement, which follows the development of the Irish capital over the centuries.

The Basics

Visitors to Dublin City Hall can step inside to admire the interior, which features columns, a rotunda, and a statue of Daniel O’Connell, the first Catholic mayor of Dublin and a champion of Catholic emancipation. The Story of the Capital exhibition is located in the vaults and chronicles Dublin’s growth from Viking times to the present day.

Many history-themed walking tours make stops at Dublin City Hall, as do hop-on hop-off bus tours. Because of its connection to the Hellfire Club—the notorious 18th-century secret society associated with Satan worship and sex was supposedly founded on the site where Dublin City Hall now stands—it sometimes features on haunted history tours of the city too.

Things to Know Before You Go

Dublin City Hall is a must for history and politics buffs, as well as for architecture enthusiasts.
Allow 30–60 minutes to fully explore the building and the basement exhibit.
Dublin City Hall is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Dublin City Hall is situated in the city center, at the intersection of Dame and Parliament Streets, not far from Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral. Several Dublin bus routes (including 27, 54a, 56a, 77a, 123, and 150) stop nearby. The nearest Luas tram stop is Trinity (Green Line), which is less than 10 minutes away on foot.

When to Get There

Dublin City Hall is open Monday to Saturday. It’s typically busiest in the afternoons between 12pm and 3pm, so if you want to avoid the crowds, come early in the day before most others arrive.

Landmarks Near City Hall

Dublin City Hall is within walking distance of several important city attractions. Christ Church Cathedral, an 11th-century church with a medieval crypt, is just a 3-minute walk away, as is Dublinia, a museum showcasing Viking and medieval-era Dublin. Dublin Castle, the former British seat of power in Ireland, is also just a 5-minute stroll away. The castle now houses the Chester Beatty Library, which holds a collection of more than 20,000 books, manuscripts, and rare objects.

Dame Street, Dublin, Ireland

From $ 14

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has served many functions since it was built by King John of England in 1230. At that time, the castle was meant to act as a defense center against the current invaders, the Normans, and serve as the seat of the English government. Since then, Dublin Castle has also been the site of the Royal Mint and police headquarters. Today, the castle grounds are a tourist attraction in addition to function as a venue for some Irish government functions and ceremonies, such as the President of Ireland's inauguration, and for conferences, including those of the European Council.

The Basics
Guided tours take visitors through the grounds, sharing the history and ever-changing purpose of each building. Most notable is the story behind the Record Tower, the only remaining building from the original medieval structure that has miraculously survived centuries worth of fires and warfare that ravaged the other buildings. Other noteworthy areas include the Chester Beatty Library and the Dubhlinn Gardens, which now grow over the spot where there was once a black pool (‘dubh linn’) from which the city of Dublin gets its name.

The long and rich history behind this complex is enough reason to tour Dublin Castle. Even people who are not history buffs will find something of interest within the vast castle grounds. Plan to spend about two hours at the castle learning about Irish history and exploring the lavishly decorated private quarters and entertaining halls of the State Apartments, the State Bedrooms, St. Patrick’s Hall, the State Drawing Room, the Chapel Royal, the Medieval Undercroft, and the Throne Room.

Dublin Castle is open to the public unless a special event is taking place; be sure to check the castle’s schedule ahead of time.
Choose to travel with a tour guide for personal attention, or opt for a self-guided tour.
Dublin Castle is a stop on most city hop-on, hop-off tours.

How to Get to Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is located in central Dublin on Dame Street. The castle is accessed easily on foot, by taxi, or via public transportation. City Hall and Trinity College are about a five-minute walk from Dublin Castle and both are well worth a visit.

When to Get There
The castle is open from 9:45am to 4:45pm, with the exception of holidays and special events. Expect some crowds and lines in summer.

Dame Street, Dublin 2, Ireland

Mon–Fri: 10am–4:45pm, Sat & Sun: 2pm–4:45pm

Adults: €4.50

From $ 15

Dubrovnik Old Town

Located at the southern tip of Croatia, perched above the rocky coastline of the Adriatic Sea, the enchanting city of Dubrovnik attracts visitors with its medieval architecture and labyrinth of limestone-paved streets. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains surrounded by 14th-century fortified stone walls.

The Basics

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia, thanks in part to the fact that it’s the filming location for the fictional city of King’s Landing in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones.

Visitors can take a guided stroll through the ancient city streets visiting such famous landmarks as the Rector’s Palace, Cathedral of the Assumption, and the Onofrio Fountain. Don’t miss a walk along Dubrovnik's ancient walls, which offer sweeping views over the maze of red-roofed Old Town buildings and out into the deep-blue Adriatic.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wear comfortable shoes and expect to spend a lot of time walking, as Dubrovnik’s Old Town is best explored on foot.
Dubrovnik can get hot in the summer, so don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
To dodge the crowds, check the cruise-ship schedule and visit on a day with fewer expected cruise-ship visitors.

How to Get There

Most visitors arrive in Dubrovnik by car, bus, cruise ship, or plane. The nearest major airport is Dubrovnik International Airport, located just south of the city center. Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone, so most visitors arrive by local ferry shuttle, bus, or taxi from their Dubrovnik accommodations.

When to Get There

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is busiest in July and August; if you plan to visit during that time, plan to arrive early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds. The best time to visit is September and October, when temperatures are still pleasant and fewer cruise ships dock.

Game of Thrones–Themed Tours

Delve into the fantastical world of Game of Thrones with a walking tour of the real-life Dubrovnik sites used as filming locations for this popular series. You’ll enjoy behind-the-scenes insight into how Old Town Dubrovnik became the fictional city of King’s Landing and hear little-known trivia about the cast and characters from a knowledgeable guide.

Old Town, Dubrovnik, Croatia

From $ 14

Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane

At this laidback, small-scale gallery in Dublin’s happening city center, visitors can browse over 2,000 pieces of modern and contemporary art. “The Hugh Lane,” as locals call it, holds the work of well-known artistic greats such as Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Manet, and also hosts a revolving array of temporary exhibits. Perhaps most fascinating is the studio of Francis Bacon—an Irish born painter who won international acclaim for his emotional and moving pieces. Here in the Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane, his entire studio was recreated in the exact, eccentric, and extremely messy state that he kept it while he was alive. Historians have lauded the Hugh Lane Gallery for the impeccable attention to detail, and a visit today is a look into the life of one Ireland’s most legendary painters. If visiting on a Sunday, show up in the morning and stay until Noon for the weekly Sunday concert series that takes place in the sculpture hall. Concerts are held from September-June, and consistently attract a talented collection of Ireland’s most popular artists.

Practical Info

The Dublin Gallery The Hugh Lane is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10am-6pm, on Friday and Saturday from 10am-5pm, and from 11am-5pm on Sunday. Admission is free, and the museum is located past the north end of O’Connell Street along the Parnell Square.

Parnell Square North, Dublin, Ireland

Vary

From $ 67

Dublinia

Medieval Dublin was a disease-riddled era of slavery, Vikings, and torture, where Bubonic Plague and bloody warfare were parts of everyday life. Though Dublin isn’t often equated with Vikings, the conquering seafarers played an important role in Dublin’s Medieval past, and at the popular Dublinia heritage center, this grisly period is on entertaining display with their interactive exhibits. Take a walk down a street from the days of Medieval Dublin, smelling the aromas of streetside merchants and hearing their tales of woe. Wrap yourself in the heavy chains of a hapless Irish slave, and walk through the dark, smoky interior of an authentic Viking household. Learn about the savage and primitive weaponry that Vikings would use in battle, and board a replica Viking warship to experience conditions at sea. At the History Hunters exhibition, hear the ancient languages and alphabets from when Vikings cruised this coast, and look at relics that have been carefully excavated from sites all across Dublin. To finish the visit, climb your way up 96 steps to the top of St. Michael’s Tower, where the 17th century viewing platform offers unparalleled city views. As educational as it is entertaining, Dublinia is a stop that every family should experience when visiting Dublin.

Practical Info

From March-September, Dublinia is open from 10am-6:30pm, and from 10am-5:30pm from October-February. Admission is approximately $10 for adults and $6.50 for students, and there is discount admission with either the Dublin Pass or through a combined ticket with the Christ Church Cathedral. To reach Dublinia, take the Red Line of the Luas to the Four Courts stop where it’s a seven-minute walk.

St Michaels Hill, Dublin, Ireland

Vary

Adult: €8.50, Child: €5.50

From $ 23

Dubrovnik Cathedral Treasury

Dubrovnik’s cathedral was originally built in the 12th century in Romanesque style and – according to legend – at the behest of King Richard the Lionheart of England after he was shipwrecked on the island of Lokrum along the Adriatic coast. This building was destroyed in an earthquake in 1667 and was replaced by today’s Baroque version, which is the work of Italian architects Andrea Buffalini and Paolo Andreotti. Approached up a grand flight of steps and with a landmark dome, the triple-aisled cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and has an imposing façade guarded by Corinthian columns and a Titian triptych sitting above the main altar; damage caused by a direct hit from a shell in the Siege of Dubrovnik (1991) has since been repaired.

The cathedral’s treasury (‘Riznica Katedrale’ in Croatian) is tucked away to the left of the altar and has a priceless array of gold and reliquaries squirreled together from medieval times onwards, creating an eccentric assortment of bones, relics and swaddling robes apparently once worn by Jesus. Masterpieces of the collection include the head and limbs of St Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, encased in gold fashioned by local goldsmiths in medieval times, paintings by Italian Mannerist Parmigianino, a fragment of the True Cross and precious icons studded in gemstones.

Practical Info

Držićeva poljana, Dubrovnik. Open Apr–Oct Mon–Fri 9am–5pm; Sat–Sun 11am–5pm. Nov–Mar Mon–Fri 10am–12pm, 3pm–5pm; Sat–Sun 11am–12pm, 3pm–5pm. Admission to the cathedral is free. Tickets for the treasury: 25 HRK. Best accessed on foot in Dubrovnik’s pedestrianized Old Town.

Držićeva poljana, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia, Croatia 20000, Croatia

Apr–Oct Mon–Fri 9am–5pm; Sat–Sun 11am–5pm. Nov–Mar Mon–Fri 10am–12pm, 3pm–5pm; Sat–Sun 11am–12pm, 3pm–5pm

Cathedral: Free; Treasury: 25 HRK

From $ 14

Dresden Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche in Dresden was built between 1726 and 1743. Its dome collapsed on Feb. 15, 1945, during the bombings of World War II. After the war, the ruins of the church were left as a war memorial. Once Dresden and the rest of East Germany were reunified with West Germany, reconstruction on the church began and was completed by 2005. As much as possible, the reconstruction of the church followed the original plans and methods and used the original materials. The church now serves as a symbol of reconciliation.

The reconstruction of the church was supported by donations from people all around the world. In order to honor those who donated, the church set up an exhibition area, which explains what was left after the destruction and what was was needed to start the rebuilding process. The exhibit includes original documents and finds from the archaeological site. Photographs and sketches outline the process from when the reconstruction idea was made public until the consecration of the church in 2005. There is also a computer to search for names of supporters.

A variety of guided tours of the church are available, and visitors can also climb the tower for views of the city.

Practical Info

Frauenkirche is located in Dresden's Neumarkt, and tickets to climb the tower cost 8 euros. The tower is open from 10am to 6pm. Monday through Saturday and from 12:30 to 6pm on Sunday. In November through March, the site closes at 4pm.

Neumarkt, Dresden, Germany

Mon–Sat 10am–6pm; Sun 12:30–6pm (Nov–March until 4pm)

8 euros

From $ 17