The Old City of Dubrovnik has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. Some years ago this listing was threatened unless tourism was controlled. A number of actions were taken, but even on a dismally wet Saturday the streets were pretty busy

A storm is definitely on its way and so, taking shelter when necessary, we explore the alleyways and thoroughfares of the Old City on foot. Walking the walls could wait until tomorrow when the sun returns.

The Old City still carries the scars of the 1992 Balkan War but today is more likely noted for having featured as King's Landing in the TV adaptation of George RR Martin’s fantasy epic “A Game of Thrones”. Many guided tours are available to remind fans of the key locations eg The Jesuit Steps (Cersei's Walk of Shame) and Fort Lovrjenak, a Guard House overlooking the West Harbour (The Blackwater).

Despite the pedestrian only access inside the Old City there is a lot of tourist accommodation, presumably booked by backpackers and travellers who don’t mind dragging their suitcases up and down the many steps steps!

Yesterday’s storm has blown through and so it’s time to tackle the city walls. Under a clear blue sky and warm spring sunshine we join many other visitors walking the 3 km of largely intact ramparts (restored). The views are spectacular, in all directions. The ancient buildings of the old city, each with it’s characteristic red terracotta roof tiles and secret gardens resemble some kind of film set rather than a historic living city. Outwards the blue Adriatic and the offshore archipelago of the “Dalmatian Coast” are just picture perfect.

Overlooking Dubrovnik is Mt Srd a 412m high hill overlooking the Old City and the coast. A cable car runs from just outside the city walls to the summit, although it can be walked via a rocky zig-zag track which follows the Stations of the Cross. It is worth the trip simply to take in the views of the Adriatic and the Dalmatian Coast, but as an added bonus where else could you go to see a Mig21 mounted on a giant "Airfix" stand…a relic of the 1992 Balkan War in case you were wondering.