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One of the quintessential European cruise moments is when your ship first sails into the gorgeous 12th-century walled city of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town will dazzle you: Imposing ramparts tower over a charming harbor, while quaint roads paved with light stone wind among red-roofed historic buildings. The town is bedecked with countless architectural jewels like the 18th-century baroque Church of St. Blaise (Dubrovnik’s patron saint), and the Sponza Palace, a building done in a striking Venetian Gothic style.

Other treasures include the 14th-century Franciscan monastery (known for its beautiful Pieta carved in 1498), Onofrio’s Fountain, and the world’s oldest pharmacy, founded in 1391.

Dubrovnik has its more contemporary charms as well, such as the offbeat shops, art galleries, restaurants and picturesque cafes that line its narrow side streets. There are lovely oil paintings, ceramics and lacework to be had here, but make sure you’ve taken out enough cash; many of these establishments don’t take credit cards.

Language: Croatian, Serbian     Currency: Croatian kuna (HRK)