After about 25 hours of travel, three flights, and a car ride, we are settled into Dubrovnik. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it dates back to the 7th century and has a storied past. Now it has become a common tourist destination based on its temperatures, appealing sites to visit, and the welcoming culture of Croatia.

We got checked into our hotel – a small boutique just outside the old city’s walls – called Heritage Villa Nobile. We didn’t know anything about it when we made the reservation, but has come to learn that it is one the cities most unique, and we have the penthouse as we celebrate 25 years of marriage.

After unpacking we ran across the street to Dubravka 1836 for a little dinner and some wine. We had picked it out in advance, but the hotel also recommended it. We know why. The food was great and the house wine (at €4 a glass was reasonable.

After dinner we walked through Pile Gate and into Old Towm for a few minutes and we were blown away. It was all the things we love about old cities with narrow streets, hyper polished walkways, and vibrant modern energy that doesn’t feel out of place. We can’t wait to go back tomorrow and see more.

Tomorrow morning we start with breakfast at the hotel and then on to explore. Starting with the City Walls.