All of the main attractions are conveniently located in the pedestrianised old city, which in itself is the standout attraction, a perfectly preserved baroque city-state. The best way to get acquainted with the city is to climb up on to the solid medieval walls, which protected the Ragusan Republic over the centuries and now provide a bird's-eye view of its historic buildings for tourists.

The main thoroughfare is the Stradun (or Placa) where the Franciscan Monastery is located as well as the graceful Sponza Palace, one of the few buildings to survive the devastating earthquake of 1667. It is also home to the iconic clocktower, the Church of St Blaise, Onforio's fountain and Orlando's column. Just around the corner are the cathedral and the Rector's Palace, once home of the nominal head of the republic, now a museum and cultural venue.

The main tourist information centre is located on the Stradun, Placa bb (tel: (020) 323 350; www.tic-stradun.hr). Staff hand out maps and leaflets and can also book tickets for various cultural events.

Another branch can be found next to the Jadrolinja ticket office at the ferry terminal in the suburb of Gruž, Gurška obala bb (tel: (020) 417 983). Private tourist agencies are generally more interested in booking people on one of their guided tours than they are in dispensing advice or maps.