One of Dubrovnik’s most popular beaches, Banje is divided into a public and private sections, the latter of which boasts daybeds and cabanas. The calm, sapphire waters are great for swimming, and travelers arriving by boat can tie up at the private dock. Otherwise, it is a five-minute walk from the Old City. Like so many clubs in Croatia, Banje draws sun-worshipping partiers during the day and then a late-night crowd for dancing and drinking.

Dubrovnik’s city walls were constructed between the 14th and 16th centuries and run interrupted for over one mile around the historic center. Other than providing stunning views, the walls also boast many cafés and small shops. Travelers can access the attraction via staircase entrances at the western and eastern gates (Pile and Ploce, respectively). Indagare Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival begins in early July and runs through August. Concerts, operas, plays and dance are performed throughout the city in such dramatic open-air venues as in front of St. Blaise’s church, on terraces of various forts and in Rudjer Boskovic Square. Tickets can be purchased on the festival’s website.

Located at the Eastwest Beach Club on Banje Beach, Dubrovnik Water Sports can arrange boat charters and such activities as parasailing, water skiing and wake boarding. You can rent a boat by the day to visit nearby islands as well.

The closest and most accessible of the islands surrounding Dubrovnik, Lokrum is a 10-minute boat ride from the city’s marina. According to legend, Richard the Lionhearted was shipwrecked here in the 12th century when he was returning from the Crusades, but now, the pine tree–laden island is home to mostly wild peacocks, who run along the many walking trails. The island’s easternmost point boasts a rocky naturist beach, and the interior features beautiful botanical gardens, a former Benedictine monastery and a Hapsburg-era castle. Enjoy its pretty walking paths and swimming coves and catch a glimpse of one of its many wild peacocks