excursions from dubrovnik

14 Incredible Day Trips From Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, the southernmost Croatian town, provides endless possibilities for day trips including day tours of neighboring countries: Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Dubrovnik is a great base for your tour of Croatia.

Famed for its medieval old town surrounded by 2 km long defensive walls and full of historical and cultural attractions, good restaurants , lively bars, amazing beaches , and loads of things to do , Dubrovnik is the best-known and one of the most visited destinations in Croatia . 

Many people visit Dubrovnik for a day or two, having just enough time to see Dubrovnik’s main attractions . However, Dubrovnik’s location on the Adriatic Sea makes it one of the major ferry boat hubs on the Croatian coast (along with Split and Zadar). Visiting Korcula, Mljet, or Elafiti Islands is very easy on a day trip from Dubrovnik. 

Also, Dubrovnik’s proximity to Montenegro and Bosnia makes Kotor, Budva, Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls , or Vjetrenica Cave popular daily excursions from Dubrovnik. 

Last, but not least, the Peljesac peninsula, Konavle region, and Neretva Valley offer endless wine-tasting opportunities, countryside experiences, seafood galore, and picture-perfect beaches. 

On the other hand, if you look for where to go for a day from Dubrovnik, without driving for a long time, and without spending a fortune, Lokrum Island and Trsteno Arboretum , are perfect choices.

We list below the best places to see and visit for a day from Dubrovnik!

Table of Contents

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A visit to Mostar is the most popular day tour from Dubrovnik. We highly recommend visiting Mostar. The town is so contrasting to Croatian coastal towns, that you feel carried thousands of kilometers away.

Set on the shores of the Neretva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is famed for its old bridge , UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. The present-time town was established in the 15-century and it still boasts interesting Turkish-style architecture .

Explore the old town, enjoy its architecture, mosques, cobblestone streets, and oriental shops, watch the world go buy at one of many river cafes; taste a typical Bosnian meal of savory pastry, dairy products, and cevapi at the restaurant Sadrvan .

Mostar is less than a three-hour drive from Dubrovnik, and a small group tour to Mostar (with stops in Pocitelj and Medugorje) is the best way to visit it.

Kotor, Montenegro

Dubrovnik is a good base to visit Montenegro, especially the northwestern part of Montenegro. It takes just a couple of hours to reach Kotor Bay – the principal point of interest on a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Kotor Bay is a wonderful fjord-like bay with spectacular landscapes, lovely medieval towns of Kotor and Perast, and high-rising mountains. For the most spectacular views over the bay, ride up Lovcen Mountain through a series of serpentines. The road is narrow and winding, but the views are incredible and well worth a ride.

Kotor Town is a highlight of the visit to Montenegro. This fortified medieval town is Unesco’s World Heritage Site. The old town, full of small squares, stone houses, polished cobblestone streets, churches, and palaces is best explored on foot. The main highlights include the defensive walls, three town gates, Clock Tower, Arms Square (Trg od Oruzja), St. Tryphon Cathedral, Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas, Pima Palace, and St. John’s Fortress.

Well-preserved Baroque town and Unesco’s World Heritage Site, Perast is a must-visit on your trip to Montenegro. The town is small but absolutely gorgeous. Perast is famed for the Our Lady of the Rocks Church built on a small artificial island off the coast of Perast.

You can visit Montenegro on a self-drive trip, or you can book a small-group day trip to Montenegro . A popular place to have lunch while visiting Kotor Bay is the restaurant Catovica Mlini in Morinj.

Elafiti Islands

We visited the Elafiti islands for the first time a couple of years ago. This archipelago of dozen islands located northwest of Dubrovnik is well worth a visit, and a great getaway from town’s hustle and bustle. Only three islands, Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan, are inhabited. All islands but Sipan are car-free .

Islands are tiny with just one or two settlements, beautiful unspoiled nature, gorgeous sandy and pebble beaches , and a slow pace of life. People come here to relax, swim or kayak in a crystal blue sea and indulge in the small pleasures of life.

Ferry boats depart four times a day (June through September) from Dubrovnik port. You can find more info on the Jadrolinija website . If you look for a cheap excursion from Dubrovnik, then visiting Elafiti by ferry fits the bill.

From June through September, many small pleasure boats offer day tours from Dubrovnik to the islands. You can also book a sea kayaking tour of the islands.

Recommended Boat Tours to Elafiti Islands:

• Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch Aboard a Traditional Karaka Ship
• Elafiti Islands Day Trip with Lunch and Pickup

Peljesac peninsula

The second-largest peninsula in Croatia, Peljesac is our favorite part of Croatia. The peninsula is famed for its rugged mountains, pebbly beaches, salt pans, wine-growing hills, sleepy villages , fortification walls, red wine, fresh oysters, and other seafood.

It takes an hour’s drive to reach Peljesac from Dubrovnik. And another hour to reach Orebic, a town located in the southwest part of the peninsula, just across Korcula town.

We highly recommend a day trip to Peljesac whether you like to taste some of the best Croatian red wines, swim at some of the nicest beaches in Croatia, or indulge in the freshest seafood .

You can visit the peninsula on a self-drive trip. And if you decide to do so, check our post on Peljesac wine tasting , and things to do in Peljesac . Otherwise, look into this small-group tour to the Peljesac peninsula.

Korcula Island

If you are dreaming of crystal clear seas, pebbly beaches, historic towns, and wonderful nature, the island of Korcula is a place to be.

Stroll the historic town of Korcula, presumably the birthplace of Marco Polo, explore seaside towns, and hidden bays, and have a picnic at the small islands of Badija, and Proizd.

It’s just two hours away from Dubrovnik by boat or by car. In July and August, a catamaran departs at 8 am from Dubrovnik, arrives in Korcula Town at 10.45, and departs again from Korcula to Dubrovnik at 4 pm. More info on the TP website .

Otherwise, we recommend you rent a car and reach Korcula via the Peljesac peninsula.

CHECK PRICES AND INFO ON THIS KORCULA ISLAND TOUR.

National park Mljet

Dubbed the greenest Croatian island, Mljet is a perfect place for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Turquoise seas, clear waters, lakes, forests, hiking trails, and very few tourists draw to Mljet those in search of unspoiled nature and off-the-beaten-path destinations. A northwestern part of the island has been proclaimed Croatian national Park since 1960.

Go hiking or cycling at the national park, visit Veliko and Malo Jezero, take a boat to St.Mary’s Island, explore hinterland villages, go diving, swim at the Odysseus cave, or sandy beaches of Saplunara, and have lunch or dinner at the local tavern Marijina Konoba .

From June through September, a fast-speed passenger boat sails every morning (July, August: Mon, Fri 8 am, other days: 9.15 am; in June and September every day at 9.15 am) from Dubrovnik to Sobra and Polace. Sobra is an hour boat ride from Dubrovnik, and to Polace it takes another 40 minutes. The return is in the afternoon (from Polace at 4.45 pm in June, July, and August, and at 4 pm in September). You can find a detailed sailing schedule on the TP website.

You can also reach Sobra on Mljet Island by ferry from Prapratno on Peljesac Peninsula. It takes one hour by car from Dubrovnik to Prapratno, and the ferry crossing takes another 45 minutes. The sailing schedule is on Jadrolinija’s website.

You can also book a group tour of Mljet Island. CHECK AVAILABILITY AND PRICES HERE!

Konavle has always been the “belly of Dubrovnik”, a rich agricultural landscape just a twenty-minute drive from Dubrovnik.

Today this region is a great getaway from Dubrovnik whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, horseback riding, ATV safari, olive oil and wine tasting, historical sights, or exploring small coastal towns.

Cavtat is the largest town and administrative center of the Konavle region. This lovely coastal town has a pretty old town, a lovely seafront promenade, pebbly beaches, and a good choice of accommodation. It also features some historical and cultural sites, like Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac’s house and museum, Racic Mausoleum constructed in 1921 by famed Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic, Rector’s Palace with a collection of historical books, coins, notes, etc on permanent display, and Our Lady of Snow Church and Monastery.

Pasjaca Beach , one of the most dramatic and most photographed beaches near Dubrovnik is located in the Konavle region.

Kojan Coral  in the village of Radovcic offers some great horseback riding and ATV tours . We used to work together with Pero, the owner of Kojan Coral, on a cruise ship a while back.

A protected natural landscape of Ljuta River in Konavle features a complex of old restored olive oil and grain mills as well as weaving looms for finishing cloth used to make Konavle costumes. There are also lovely restaurants serving traditional Koanvle food with river-side terraces. Our favorite restaurant here is Konoba Vinica Monkovic.

You can easily reach Konavle from Dubrovnik by car, or by bus. Frequent local buses between Dubrovnik and villages and towns of the Konavle region, make a visit to Konavle one of the cheapest day trips from Dubrovnik. For instance, a one-way ticket from Dubrovnik to Cavtat costs only 3.7 € (4 US$, 3.3 £). You can also explore Konavle on this great cycling tour .

Vjetrenica Cave

Vjetrenica Cave is located in the neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina, and it’s the largest cave found in this area.

The length of the cave isn’t yet known, but an interesting experiment was conducted within the cave with a colored substance that was later found on the island of Sipan, off the coast of Dubrovnik.

The extensive cave system has over 6.000 m of passages. The cave is just an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik. The entrance fee is 15 KM (8 €, 8,5 US$, 7 £).

Neretva River Safari

A wonderful valley located only 70 km north of Dubrovnik offers loads of things to do. From kite and windsurfing, wine tasting, hiking, harvesting mandarins to river safaris, and indulging in local specialties like frog and eel stew, Neretva Valley offers something interesting for everybody.

A couple of restaurants offer river safari on the traditional wooden boats called ladja (larger boats) or trupa (smaller boats).

You can arrange a safari directly with a restaurant (we recommend Djudja & Mate in the village of Vid). Neretva delta is just a 1.5-hour drive from Dubrovnik.

You can also check this river safari offer  or this one .

Kravica Waterfalls

These low-key waterfalls, located near the village of Studenci in Bosnia & Herzegovina, are mostly visited by locals.

Kravica Waterfalls are two hours drive from Dubrovnik. This part of Bosnia & Herzegovina, along the Trebizat river, abounds in underground waters, streams, rapids, and waterfalls.

We recommend you take a self-drive trip to Kravica Waterfalls. Hike, chill out and swim in freshwater, relax in a nearby cafe with a terrace overlooking the water and the waterfalls, and then head to Ceveljusa for a lunch at the Mandica Jaz restaurant. They serve mostly meat, and trout, but benefit from an awesome location. The food here is super cheap.

You can also check out this group tour of Kravica Waterfalls .

Trsteno Arboretum

Trsteno is a small village just 20 km north of Dubrovnik. The village is home to a beautiful Trsteno Arboretum . Established in the 15th century, it’s the oldest monument of garden architecture in Croatia.

Since this place was used as a set for a popular HBO series – The Game of Thrones , more and more tourists (particularly GoT fans) visit the Trsteno Arboretum. Many tour agencies offer a combo tour of city walks and arboretum for GoT fans.

However, the place is also very easy to visit from Dubrovnik by car, or even by public bus (the cheapest option). If you are a sucker for nice views, hiking, or mountain biking, go up the hills above Trsteno toward the village of Slano. Views from the top are spectacular.

On the way back stop for a romantic (yet pricey) lunch at the restaurants  Ankora  or Gverovic Orsan . For a nice homemade meal, visit the local tavern – Veranda .

Lokrum Island

Even if you stay in Dubrovnik for just a couple of days, we recommend you make time to visit the island of Lokrum .

This tiny island is just a 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s old harbor. During the summer season, boats depart every 30 minutes. A return boat ticket costs 26.5 €, 29 US$, 23.3 £).

Swim in a salt-water lake, visit the Benedictine abbey and monastery, explore the island’s exotic gardens containing over 500 different plants from all over the world, cliff jump into the blue Adriatic just like locals do, or rent a sea kayak and paddle around the island.

More Dubrovnik day trips & other tips

• The ultimate list of things to do in Dubrovnik , including more day trips from Dubrovnik. Look no further.
• Find out the best places to stay in Dubrovnik with our Dubrovnik accommodation guide .
• Start planning your travel to Dubrovnik with our Dubrovnik Travel Guide .
• Planning to go to Split from Dubrovnik? Here is our guide on how to get from Dubrovnik to Split .
• Find out the best Dubrovnik beaches here.
• Where to eat in Dubrovnik: our guide to the best restaurants in Dubrovnik
• Best time to visit Dubrovnik
• Split or Dubrovnik: Where to go first?
• Things to do in Dubrovnik beyond the city walls
• A wine-tasting tour of Dubrovnik
• Exploring Dubrovnik’s surroundings, the Sokol Grad Tower
• Elafiti islands , island hopping around Dubrovnik archipelago

We hope that we’ve helped you find some day trips from Dubrovnik that fit your style and budget. I f you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please leave them in the comments below.

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11 thoughts on “14 Incredible Day Trips From Dubrovnik”

We are travelling to Dubrovnik May 2020 for a vacation and are looking for excursions to take – 2 maybe 3 – over the 10 days that we are staying. Reading your reviews it states that excursions are picking up at hotels. Could you confirm that you would be able to pick up at the Hotel Croatia in Cavtat

Many thanks Mervyn and Lyn

Always better to prebook, and book it only for the days you plan to do day trips.

We are a family of four with sons aged 20 and 16. Staying Lapad area. Should we rent a car or use public transport for a few day trips? Is car rental easy to source there or should i prebook if we choose that option?

Three of us arrive in Split in early July and want to island hop down to Dubrovnik over 4 days. What boat tours do you think are good

You can easily combine Mostar and Kravica on one tour. You can find some on Viator ( https://goo.gl/p0uZ71 ), but you can also do it on your own if you have a car.

Hi Tadhg, Bay of Kotor is for us the nicest part of Montenegro. For us a day was enough. But, sure, some people might like to explore longer. Thanks for reading!

I think montengro is worth much more than a day trip, exploring the bay of kotor in detail is one of the best things I’ve ever done

Did you get a reply to your email about combining Mostar and Kravica Falls? I was thinking of combining them too.

Thinking of doing a day trip combining Mostar and Kravica Falls. Think this is doable in one day? They seem somewhat close together and not much of a detour driving time. Probably Mostar in the morning through lunch and then a stop on the way back at the falls. We will have our own car.

Thanks for stopping by, Sue. Glad to hear that you’ve liked Croatia on your last visit here.

I think we need to come back to Croatia and stay for a few months! Should we find ourselves in Dubrovnik again this is a fantastic reference. What a gorgeous country.

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The 7 best day trips from Dubrovnik

Feb 24, 2023 • 7 min read

The best day trips from Dubrovnik include beautiful beach towns like Cavtat © Jerry Uomala / Getty Images

Ringed by UNESCO-listed city walls , Dubrovnik ’s spectacular old town is a huge draw for over a million visitors each year. Come summer, the narrow lanes of the compact old town can get cramped with the tourist crush, especially when cruise ships are in port.

If the city gets all too much, escape on a day trip. Croatia offers plenty of nature and cultural heritage less than two hours away. These seven tried-and-tested destinations are the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Travel time: 15 minutes Less than a mile across the water from Dubrovnik is tiny Lokrum , a protected nature reserve and car-free island. Stroll among cacti, magnolias, palms, and eucalyptus trees in the botanical gardens, planted in the 19th century by its erstwhile owner, Archduke Maximilian I of Habsburg. A big draw is the permanent Game of Thrones exhibition housed in the 11th-century Benedictine monastery, where fans line up to capture themselves sitting on a replica of the Iron Throne. Keen walkers will want to venture to the 19th-century hilltop Fort Royal and take in the dazzling views of Dubrovnik’s old town and Srđ hill from its rooftop.

Stay for a swim in the 10ft-deep salt lake known as the Dead Sea, or at one of the quiet rocky beaches lapped by impossibly turquoise waters. Forgot your bathing suit? You won’t need one at the nude beach at the island’s south-eastern end. Plenty of al fresco cafes and restaurants keep visitors well fed too. Lacroma Restaurant entices GOT buffs with their Stark Dynasty burger.

How to get to Lokrum from Dubrovnik:  A passenger ferry makes the trip every half hour from Dubrovnik’s old town harbor to Portoč on Lokrum’s eastern coast.

Travel time: 45 minutes Pretty seaside Cavtat boasts a waterfront promenade and pebble beaches, but it also has a rich artistic heritage. Celebrated artist Vlaho Bukovac was born here in 1855, before his artistic career took him to Paris, Zagreb, London and ultimately, Prague. Today his childhood home is a three-story museum chronicling his artistic life. Wander through its many rooms to see the brightly painted walls he used as his first canvas, a collection of his personal possessions, period furniture, and his sun-filled atelier on the top floor.

Bukovac also left his artistic mark in the sea-facing 15th-century Church of Our Lady of the Snow with a 1909 work of The Madonna and Child . Meanwhile, St Nicholas church in the town center shelters four paintings of The Evangelists he completed in 1910. Perched on a hill in the cemetery is the domed Račić Family Mausoleum : another monument of artistic heritage created by the renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović. Has all that art made you hungry? Buffet Atlas serves up breakfast and light lunches with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

How to get to Cavtat from Dubrovnik:  Bus number 10 runs every hour from the city bus station. Adriana Cavtat operates regular boat services from Dubrovnik’s old town harbor arriving in Cavtat 45 minutes later.

Travel time: 40 minutes The Konavle valley covers a narrow slice of land wedged between two mountain ranges in the southernmost part of Croatia. This fertile region is blanketed with vineyards, dotted with olive groves, and is – unsurprisingly – an excellent destination for lovers of good food and wine.

Charming Ljuta is a popular stop with cyclists and hikers for its scenic river and waterfalls ribboned by wild forests, making up a protected landscape. It’s also a must-stop on the gastro trail. In a beautiful natural setting that was once an old mill, diners at Konavoski Dvori Eco Green Restaurant clink glasses next to the rushing rapids as waiters in traditional costumes serve up platters of local delicacies. Stop in at OPG Brajković to sample regional wines such as Dubrovacka Malvasija and Vranac, and olive oil pressed from local Oblica olives.

How to get to Konavle from Dubrovnik:  Bus number 25 goes to Ljuta from the main bus station three times a day, except on Sundays and holidays. 

4. Sokol Grad

Travel time: 45 minutes Perched 82ft (25m) up the slope of a mountain looms Sokol fortress . Sokol has been inhabited since ancient times because of its strategic location on a mountain that today creates the border with neighboring Bosnia and Hercegovina and Montenegro . This exquisite medieval fortification opened to the public in 2013 after over 50 years of refurbishment work restored it to its 15th-century appearance.

It’s fun to ramble up and down this sprawling hillfort, peeking into chambers that sheltered its kitchen quarters, guardsmen houses, forge, and chapel. On display are weapons once used to defend the fortress, as well as hefty cannons and stone cannonballs. From the top of the ramparts, enjoy sweeping views over the green valleys of Konavle, punctuated by forests of pointy cypresses.

How to get to Sokol from Dubrovnik:  You will need to drive to get to Sokol Grad; the castle isn’t serviced by public transport. Insider Holidays offers private tours that include a stop here.

Travel time: 30 minutes Long before Game of Thrones , Trsteno was already on the map thanks to its enchanting gardens. First planted in the 15th century, Trsteno Arboretum spreads across 64 acres (25 hectares) with over 300 species of trees and plants. It’s a delight to wander along its overgrown paths through dense thickets of cypresses, hornbeams, Japanese palms, and bamboo groves to a soundtrack of birdsong. Look closely at the plaques identifying each tree, and you’ll learn that many are well over a century old.

The Arboretum’s centerpiece is a Baroque sculpted fountain of Neptune spouting arching jets of water into a pool of waterlilies, goldfish, and frogs. You’ll find the stone aqueduct behind the fountain that once fed it. The 15th-century villa the gardens were designed for still stands, as does a small chapel. At the covered cliffside pavilion, pause to admire the nearby Elafiti Islands and Trsteno’s small port and beach below.

How to get to Trsteno from Dubrovnik:  Public bus number 35 has regular daily runs to Trsteno, while buses 12, 15, and 21 operate infrequently, but not on Sundays or holidays. All leave from Dubrovnik’s bus station.

Travel time: 1 hour Tiny Ston sits close to the edge of the Pelješac Peninsula , connecting it to the mainland. The 15th-century Ston Walls extend 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and are part of one of the longest and largest fortifications in the world. Climb the walls all the way to Ston’s sister town Mali Ston, making a halt at St Michael’s Mount on the hilltop to take in the rolling hills and grid of salt pans below. Note that the uphill jaunt from Ston is demanding, and you may want to attempt the circuit in reverse!

Ston is also renowned for its historic salt pans dating from Roman times when salt had the same value as gold and was used as a currency. Salt is still produced at the open-air saltworks at Solana Ston , which welcomes visitors. Walked up an appetite? Tuck into locally farmed oysters and mussels washed down with Pelješac wines such as a Plavac Mali red or Pošip white at Bota Šare Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Mali Ston.

How to get to Ston from Dubrovnik:  From Dubrovnik bus station, buses number 15 (three times a day, except Sundays/holidays) and 21 (once a day, except for weekends/holidays) go to Ston.

Travel time: 2 hours  Bewitchingly beautiful Korčula Town, a 13th-century walled citadel on the northeast coast of Korčula Island , is a delight to explore. Climb the stone staircase to Kopnena Vrata (the Land Gate), opening onto a clever fishbone layout of narrow streets designed to protect residents from the chilly gusts of the bora wind. Pop into the 15th-century St Mark’s Cathedral to behold two works by Tintoretto: Three Saints above the altar, and The Annunciation beside the altar of St Anthony. Next, head up the bell tower for vistas over pretty terracotta rooftops, faded facades, and secret courtyards, to the Pelješac peninsula across the channel.

Korčula claims Marco Polo as its own. Decide for yourself after visiting the Marco Polo House , located in a handsome 17th-century stone building on the site of his purported birthplace. Petra Kanavelića promenade on the eastern seafront is lined with a string of restaurants and cafes shaded by towering Aleppo pines. Snag a romantic table with a sea view at Filippi , recommended by Michelin for its contemporary Mediterranean cuisine.

How to get to Korčula from Dubrovnik:  Ferries depart from Dubrovnik’s Gruž port to Korčula Town. Daily services run during the tourist season (June to September) and are operated by Jadrolinija , Krilo , and TP Line (except Sundays).

This article was first published June 2022 and updated February 2023

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15 INCREDIBLE Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Updated October 28, 2019

// By Margherita

Is Dubrovnik too crowded for you? Guess what – we know just what to do! Here we’ll tell you all about the 14 best day trips from Dubrovnik, including island-hopping and hiking day trips!

Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most popular and fascinating cities. Its Old Town has been listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for its rich history and stunning architecture, dating back to the time when the city was a bustling maritime republic.

The huge stone walls surrounding the Old Town were built between the 11th and 17th centuries to protect this former city-state that for centuries rivalled with Venice as a trading port.

With its dazzling paved streets and white facades, Dubrovnik is full of things to see and do – including Baroque churches, palaces, fountains, squares filled with cafés, restaurants serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and sunset bars built right on top of cliffs.

For a long time, Dubrovnik remained a kind of ‘hidden secret’ on the Southern Dalmatian coast. I remember visiting in the late Nineties , only a few years after the siege that brought the city to its knees for 7 months. Bullet holes were still visible on walls, and only a handful of tourists roamed the streets. 

Then, we headed to Dubrovnik again in February 2006 , and saw dozens of locals waited at the bus station with placards advertising their spare room. There were indeed more tourists around , but you could still roam Dubrovnik in total solitude, climbing on and off the city walls at will.

Fast-forward a decade or so, and Dubrovnik is one of the worst victims of overtourism in Europe. Two things have contributed to this – the decision of HBO power-series Game of Thrones to use Dubrovnik as one of its filming locations , and the rise in cruise tourism.

Visit Dubrovnik now, and you’ll probably feel overwhelmed – especially in summer, when horde upon horde of cruise ship groups descends on the Old Town every single morning. Want to climb up the city walls? It will be €29 and a three-hour wait. Want to have lunch? There you are, some microwaved faux-Italian for about as much as you’ll pay in Venice. 

The solution? Head out of the city! Dubrovnik’s position on the Southern Dalmatian coast, surrounded by islands on one side and mountains on the other, means it’s easy to go island-hopping from Dubrovnik or on hiking day trips. 

Those who are ‘collecting countries’ will also be very pleased to know that you can go on day trips from Dubrovnik to both Bosnia and Montenegro.

Here are our 15 favourite day trips from Dubrovnik to get you started!

Island-Hopping Day Trips from Dubrovnik

1) elafiti islands .

Easily reachable by boat from the city, the Elafiti Islands are among the easiest (and best!) day trips from Dubrovnik.

The archipelago is composed by a total of 14 islands and small islets, of which only three are inhabited – Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. Kolocep and Lopud are also entirely car-free, which makes them the perfect getaway if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.

With their warm and quiet waters, stunning landscapes and fascinating villas overlooking the sea, the Elafiti Islands are perfect for relaxing and practicing water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

You can choose to spend your entire day sunbathing , or enjoying one of the many tours that circles the three main islands. 

Foodies take note – Šipan Island is also home to the highest concentration of olive trees per capita in Europe, and you’ll find some really great konoba (traditional restaurant).

Getting to the Elaphiti Islands:  there are four daily departures from Gruz Port with Jadrolinija. The first stop is Koločep (30 minutes), then Lopud (1 hour), and finally Šipan (1 hour 15 from Dubrovnik). However, please note that visiting all three islands in one day is near impossible – you better opt for one of the tours below!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to the Elaphiti Islands

• Dubrovnik: Elafiti Islands Day Cruise on a Karaka Ship
• Elaphite Islands Day Trip with Lunch from Dubrovnik
• Galleon Cruise around the Elaphiti Islands
• From Dubrovnik: Elaphite Island-Hopping with Lunch

2) Lokrum 

Lokrum Island is the perfect destination for a quick island-hopping day trip from Dubrovnik , as it’s only a 20 minutes boat ride from the city, and you can depart right from the harbour in the Old Town (rather than having to cross the city to get to the larger Gruz Port!)

No cars are allowed on the island, so wear a comfy pair of shoes and be prepared to walk! One of the coolest things to do in Lokrum is hike to Fort Royal , which is located on the highest peak and is a former French garrison which looks out over the island and Dubrovnik.

You can also hike to the centre of the island to visit a shallow salt lake, and explore the ruins of a 15th-century monastery and a 12th-13th century basilica – Game of Thrones lovers take note , these last two locations were used as a setting for the city of Qarth in season 2!

After all the hard work is done, make sure you also enjoy a nice lunch at one of the local restaurants, or go sunbathing at the beach!

Getting to Lokrum:  frequent departures by ferry, at least twice an hour, from the small harbour in the Old City. Travel time is 20 minutes.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Lokrum

• Dubrovnik: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise with Dinner
• Dubrovnik Sunset Kayak Tour to Lokrum
• Dubrovnik 3-Hour Sea Kayaking Tour with Snack

The island of Mljet is the perfect island-hopping day trip for travellers who like to be surrounded by nature.

This island includes one of Croatia’s national parks , and it is often overlooked by most tourists. Those who do make it to Mljet will be rewarded with picturesque beaches, small villages, and naturally the national park, covering the entire north-western part of the island, which is fun to explore by bike.

Easily accessible by boat from Dubrovnik , Mljet is the ideal place to take a day off from the bustle of the mainland. Some of the best things to do on a Mljet day trip are taking a road trip to explore the island, hiking to Odysseus Cave, biking around the lakes, and naturally tasting the freshly caught seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Getting to Mljet:  there are daily ferries from Gruz Port in Dubrovnik to Mljet taking two hours each way, but then you’ll have to find your way around the island – probably not worth doing for a day trip. We recommend opting for a day trip instead!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Mljet

• National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• From Dubrovnik: Private Speedboat Cruise to Mljet
• Mljet National Park Day Trip

Hvar is without a doubt one of Croatia’s most charming islands. It takes about 4 hours to get there from Dubrovnik, so it can indeed be visited as a day trip, but we recommend staying longer if possible.

Hvar is a popular destination among celebrities – it’s a large island, but it still manages to maintain some secluded getaways, with quiet beach bars and traditional villages.

One of the top things to do in Hvar is visiting the many beaches you can find all around the island – Dubovica and Pokonji Dol beaches are two of the best, and they’re not far to get to from Hvar Town.

While you’re there, don’t forget to go exploring Hvar Town , with its crowded cobblestone streets filled with shops, bars and restaurants.

To take some truly great pictures head up to the fortress of Fortica , atop the highest part of the town. Ah, and before you leave, don’t forget to taste the local wines, try some cheese from Pag, and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Getting to Hvar:  in high season, there are daily ferries travelling between Dubrovnik and Hvar in the morning and afternoon, making day trips possible. Travel time is 3 hours each way.

Another top island-hopping day trip from Dubrovnik! There are actually many reasons to visit Korcula – touring the Medieval streets of Korcula Town , visiting the house where locals claim explorer Marco Polo was born, taking pictures of St. Mark’s Cathedral and other Renaissance buildings. 

However, nature is what makes Korcula really worth visiting. The island is full of crystalline, idyllic bays and beaches – Bačva beach is one of the best if you truly want to be alone, as access is only via a narrow staircase, or head to Lumbarda for either rocky Bilin Žal, or sandy Vela Pržina , the best beach in Korcula according to locals. 

Yet, the real reason to visit Korcula is getting lost exploring its winding roads and villages, by bike if possible! Whatever you do, don’t miss sampling a glass of local wine. Korcula, together with the nearby Peljesac Peninsula (which can easily be combined as a day trip from Dubrovnik!) is one of the best wine producing areas in Croatia.

Getting to Korcula:  in high season, it’s possible to take a ferry to and from Korcula , departing at 7 or 9 am and returning at about 4.30 pm. To save yourself the hassle and make sure you don’t get stuck on the island, consider taking a tour!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Korcula

• Island of Korcula Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Secret Korčula Island Day Trip
• Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik
• From Dubrovnik: Ston and Korčula Tour and Tastings
• Discover Korcula from Dubrovnik including Winery Visit
• Dubrovnik: Day Trip to Korcula Birthplace of Marco Polo

Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Kotor is without a doubt one of the best places you can visit in Montenegro , and one of the easiest to visit as a day trip from Dubrovnik!

The medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has a rich artistic and cultural heritage, narrow cobblestone streets that open on small charming squares, and is surrounded by luxuriant and largely unspoiled nature.

The Old Town is a stark contrast to the chaotic streets nearby. Explore the quiet and fascinating little pedestrian streets filled with shops, cafes and restaurants.

To fully admire the Gulf of Kotor and its winding, fjord like harbour you can climb up the Kotor City Walls, that will lead you high above the medieval town. It’s bit of a hike, but it’s absolutely worth it!

If you want to see more of Montenegro , you can tour some of the pretty fishermen’s villages across the bay from Kotor (like Muo or Prcanj ), visit Perast and Saint George’s Island, or combine Kotor with a day trip to Budva!

Getting to Kotor: there are several daily buses between Kotor and Dubrovnik, with travel time ranging from 2 to 2 and a half hours. To make things easier, opt for a day trip!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Kotor

• Montenegro Coast: Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• Kotor Bay Day Trip
• Montenegro Coast Day Trip
• Best of Montenegro: Kotor Bay Tour from Dubrovnik
• Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Kotor

Many day tours from Dubrovnik combine the two cities of Kotor and Budva. If Kotor is best known for its walls and relaxed attitude, Budva is the place to visit if you’re in a party mood.

Inside the Old Town walls you’ll find a small but charming town with narrow pedestrian streets, places of historical and cultural interest, shops and restaurants.

Budva is also well known for its pebble and sand beaches , where you can rent sun beds and umbrellas for just a few euros and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars in the area. It’s a great idea for a relaxing Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik!

Getting to Budva: there are at least 9 daily buses connecting Dubrovnik and Budva, taking as little as 2 and a half hours each way.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Budva

• From Dubrovnik to Montenegro: Kotor & Budva
• Montenegro Private Full Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Budva

Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia

Known for its picturesque Old Bridge and its souvenir shops, Mostar is one of the most visited Bosnian cities. Its compact historic centre, and the fact it’s only just over 2 hours away, makes it the perfect destination for a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Mostar’s famous bridge, the Stari Most , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was destroyed in 1993 during the Balkan War, and rebuilt to its former glory in 2004.

Nowadays, it’s the most popular tourist attraction in town – not just because it’s a great photo opportunity, but also because you’ll be able to see local daredevils (and tourists!) brave the 20+ meter jump into the chilly waters of the Neretva river.

The city centre of Mostar is filled with traditional restaurants, market stalls, mosques, souvenir shops and historical buildings. Mostar is the perfect place to experience the local cuisine and, if you take a walk around the market stalls, getting a glimpse of the traditional Bosnian way of life.

Getting to Mostar:  buses travel daily from Dubrovnik to Mostar, taking approximately 3 hours each way. 

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar

• Mostar and Four Pearls of Herzegovina
• Mostar & Kravica Waterfall: Small Group Tour from Dubrovnik
• Mostar Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• From Dubrovnik: Mostar & Kravice Waterfalls Private Tour
• Mostar & Međugorje Full-Day Private Tour from Dubrovnik
• Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls FULL Day Tour

9) Sarajevo

Sarajevo is definitely the number one destination to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s probably too far for a day trip from Dubrovnik (definitely if you want to use public transport!) but if this is your only time in the Balkans, we highly recommend visiting. 

It is important to know the history of Sarajevo to fully understand it and appreciate it.

Sarajevo witnessed the outbreak of the First World War, has undergone years of communism as part of Yugoslavia, and suffered its own bloody civil war in the early 1990s.

The city now offers plenty of attractions and activities , such as the Latin Bridge , the Kovači Memorial Cemetery , the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum, the Jewish Museum and the old bazaar, also known as Baščaršija , where you can try lots of traditional food.

Getting to Sarajevo:  travel time by bus is 6 hours each way, too far for a day trip! Spend the night or opt for a private tour instead.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Sarajevo

• Sarajevo Private Full-Day Excursion from Dubrovnik
• Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Sarajevo
• From Dubrovnik: Sarajevo and Mostar Private Full-Day Tour

10) Medjugorje

Best known as the perfect destination for spiritual and religious reflection , and popular site of Catholic pilgrimage due to reports of alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary to six local children, Medjugorje is also a place for relaxation and cultural sightseeing.

Among the most popular places you should visit in Medjugorje there’s the Church of St. James , symbol of the Parish of Medjugorje, and Apparition Hill , with its Statue of Our Lady that commemorates the spot where She appeared.

You can also climb the Cross Mountain , walk along the Via Domini and spend some time in reflections and meditations at the Blue Cross.

To extend your Bosnia day trip from Dubrovnik , you can hike to the Kravice waterfalls, which is a great place for swimming, fishing and enjoying the surrounding nature.

Getting to Medjugorje: Medjugorje is just two hours drive from Dubrovnik, but there’s only one daily bus. If you really want to go on a day trip, your best bet will be renting a car or going on a tour.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Medjugorje

• Mostar, Medjugorje, and Karavice: Farm To Table Tour
• Medjugorje: the main pilgrimage site in Hercegovina
• Medjugorje: Full-Day Tour from Dubrovnik

11) Trebinje

Country-collectors looking for a Bosnia day trip from Dubrovnik , did you know that Trebinje is only 30 km from Dubrovnik, making it by far the easiest place to reach.

The only issue is that there aren’t many daily buses, and timetables change constantly and aren’t often updated online. For a day trip from Dubrovnik , you’d better rent a car or opt for a taxi. 

We visited Trebinje a few years ago during our week in Herzegovina and loved the chilled atmosphere of the town. It’s kind of like a mini Sarajevo – there’s a Turkish neighbourhood reminiscent of Baščaršija, a blend of mosques and Orthodox churches, and not far from town you can also visit Trvdos Monastery , with its own wine cellar. 

Alternatively, if you want to spend your day trip from Dubrovnik hiking and exploring nature , we recommend heading to Biela Gora , a mountain on the border between Herzegovina and Montenegro. To do that, you can get in touch with Sinda Kunic on his website!

Getting to Trebinje: there are two daily buses, double check at the bus station in Dubrovnik for the latest departure times. 

Hiking Day Trips from Dubrovnik

12) kravice waterfalls.

Would you like to visit Plitvice Lakes , but you’re afraid you’ll be stuck in crowds the whole day? Guess what – Kravice Waterfalls is the perfect solution for a nature and hiking day trip from Dubrovnik!

This is probably one of Bosnia’s best kept secrets , and it can be easily combined with a visit to Mostar. At Kravice you’ll find a rock amphitheatre with 28 meter-high waterfalls, and to make matters even better, you’re allowed to swim in the stunning turquoise waters!

You can also rent boats, hike around the waterfalls, or simply sit and admire the waterfalls with a drink and a hot meal (make sure you try cevapi !) from one of the bars. This day trip is really worth doing from Dubrovnik , and it’s just a matter of time before Kravice turns into a new version of Plitvice – so get there while you can!

Getting to Kravice:  reaching Kravice for a day trip from Dubrovnik by public transport is impossible. Opt for a tour instead!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Trebinje

• Dubrovnik, Mostar, Kravica Waterfalls, & Blagaj Private Tour

13) Peljesac Peninsula 

The Peljesac Peninsula is the perfect day trip from Dubrovnik for all the food and wine lovers out there, as it’s one of the best Croatian wine regions.

One of the best things to do is visiting local wineries , and naturally tasting amazing food at one of the many restaurants of the peninsula.

The Peljesac Peninsula is also a great place to relax, explore the historical site s, such as the fortification walls in Ston, sunbathe at the beach and go scuba diving or windsurfing. 

Despite the increase in popularity of the area among tourists, Peljesac remains relatively offbeat – it’s also a wonderful hiking destination, and there’s a long tradition among locals to hike Sveti Iljia mountain , offering great views over the coast and Peljesac Channel from the summit. This is a great hiking day trip from Dubrovnik!

Getting to the Peljesac Peninsula: there are multiple buses (every 2/3 hours) travelling between Dubrovnik and Ston, the first town on the Peljesac Peninsula. Travel time is just over an hour each way.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Peljesac Peninsula

• Ston Day Trip and Wine Tasting
• Peljesac Peninsula & Korcula Island Day-Trip from Dubrovnik

Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Other Places in Croatia

Cavtat is the perfect destination on the Croatian mainland if you want to escape the tourist crowds. It’s only a short 20 minute drive from Dubrovnik, and its beaches and waterfront are the perfect places to relax – ideal for a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Cavtat is divided into two bays , of which Luka is the larger, and there is a nice footpath following the coastline, that can be traveled in 30 minutes.

Also, don’t miss visiting the Old Town , built in classic Croatian style with cobbled streets and historical buildings. While wandering around the streets, make sure you check out St. Nicholas Church , the Rector’s Palace and the Racic Mausoleum.

The two beaches closest to the Old Town are perfect to relax in the sun, swimming and practising water sports. The waterfront is a good option for lunch break as it’s filled with cafes and restaurants.

Getting to Cavtat:  this is probably the easiest day trip from Dubrovnik! Suburban bus number 10 travels from Dubrovnik to Cavtat every 45 to 60 minutes, taking about 20 mins. It’s a great place to visit even just for half day!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Cavtat

• Private Transportation from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat
• Dubrovnik: Rivera & Cavtat Private Tour

Even though the city often fails to impress at first sight, there are many things to do in Split , making it a great destination for a day trip or extension from Dubrovnik – especially if you’re into history.

Spend your time exploring the Old Town , climbing to the top of the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral and strolling along the Riva Promenade . Don’t forget to check out Diocletian’s Palace , the emperor’s retirement home, situated in the very centre of the Old Town.

To end your day off, explore the markets and taste the traditional food and wines at one of the many restaurants in town.

Getting to Split:  there are hourly bus departures from Dubrovnik to Split, taking 4 hours each way. So, it’s a LONG day trip – but it could be done, especially in summer when the days are long. Otherwise, try to spend at least a night in Split!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik to Split

• Split Hop On Hop Off Bus
• Dubrovnik to Split 1-Way Private Transfer
• Split: Private Day Tour from Dubrovnik

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Day trips from dubrovnik.

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15 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik (+ 2 Half Day Tours From Dubrovnik)

After spending some time in the gorgeous city, you might be wondering what the best day trips from Dubrovnik are. Perfect! I’ve got 15 great options for you. 

Because of its location, it’s easy to do day excursions from Dubrovnik to other parts of the country, but it’s also easy to skip over into different countries in the Balkans! Both Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina are excellent destinations for day trips out of Dubrovnik.

In this article, I give you 16 of the best day tours from Dubrovnik. I’ve included something for all travel styles including adventurous types, foodies, Dubrovnik island tours, and ancient cities for the history and culture vultures.

Read on to discover the best tours from Dubrovnik. Let’s go!

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Top 3 Easy Dubrovnik Day Tours

15. dubrovnik to hvar island day trip, 17. lokrum island, can i do day trips from dubrovnik to albania, save it for later, best day trips from dubrovnik.

If you’re in a hurry? then here’s the lowdown of the 16 top day trips from Dubrovnik covered in this article. You can also download this list of the best day trips around Dubrovnik straight to your inbox by clicking here .

Day trip to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls from Dubrovnik

✅ Crystal-clear waters of the Trebizat River and Kravice waterfalls

✅ Learn the fascinating history of Bosnia and Herzegovina

✅ See the iconic medieval arched bridge in Mostar

Dubrovnik to Montenegro Day Trip

✅ Photogenic regions of Župa Dubrovačka and the Konavle

✅ Explore the cobblestone towns of Budva and Kotor

✅ Take a boat ride around the Bay or Koror

Elaphiti Islands Day Trip from Dubrovnik

✅ Full day of Island hopping around multiple islands

✅ Visit the island of Lopud and opt to swim or sunbathe on Šunj Beach

✅ Explore the medieval history of Koločep

Independent Day Trips From Dubrovnik

If you’re confident at trip planning and driving abroad, then a lot of these Dubrovnik day trips are perfect to self-drive – although if you’re doing the wine tour, then obvs don’t drive!

Although you get the freedom of working to your own schedule, you’re also going to have to deal with navigating, parking and sometimes, border crossings which are all handled for you if you book an organised tour.

The good thing is that if you’re considering self-drive day trips , Dubrovnik is a relatively easy country to drive in, with well-maintained and signposted roads.

If you’re only staying in Dubrovnik for a few days, then it’s probably not worth the hassle of hiring a car . Just stick to doing organised day tours in Dubrovnik instead.

So, do you think you’ve seen everything in Dubrovnik yet?

Not sure? Then check out this Dubrovnik city guide to see what you’ve missed.

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16 Easy Dubrovnik Day Tours

So, you’ve explored the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik , walked the Medieval city walls, hiked (ahem….took the cable car) up Srd Hill and swanned about on Lokrum Island for a bit, and all the other things on your Dubrovnik bucket list. 

So what now? It’s time to check out some of these great day trips from Dubrovnik.

I’ve sifted out the best Dubrovnik day tours for you. Most of these Dubrovnik day trips in this list come with transportation included some even pick up from your hotel! 

Some are small group tours , others could be done as self-drive or private tours. Lots of them also come with a cancellation policy of up to 24 hours before departure in case your plans change last minute.

1. Day trip to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours

📍 FEATURES: Culture, History, Waterfalls

Read details about their free cancellation policy here .

One of the most popular day tours from Dubrovnik is to the beautiful city of Mostar in neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Your day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar starts early as you head straight to the crystal-clear waters of the Trebizat River and Kravice waterfalls. Alternatively, you could book full-day trips from Dubrovnik to Kravice waterfalls to spend a full day here.

During this day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik, you’ll get to chase waterfalls. The waterfalls are a natural beauty spot and are now protected areas, surrounded by nature and untouched greenery. Don’t forget your swimsuit, because you can swim in these waterfalls too.

After visiting the waterfalls, your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip continues, where your guide will tell you all about the fascinating history of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Most organised day trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar include a guided tour of the picturesque city which straddles the Neretva River. This includes the most iconic bridge in the Balkans, the Stari Most (Old Bridge).

The original medieval arched bridge was destroyed during the Balkans war but has been painstakingly reconstructed and is what you will see standing today. If you’re an adrenaline junkie , you can even jump off the bridge!

Mostar day trips from Dubrovnik always include plenty of time to explore the city by yourself where you could wander the pretty cobbled streets, visit the many museums or just relax by the river taking in the local vibe.

Important Note: If you’re doing this Dubrovnik to Bosnia day trip, don’t forget your passport!

This is one of the most popular Dubrovnik day tours, so be sure to book in advance , especially during peak season.

2. Dubrovnik to Montenegro Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 4.1/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours

📍 FEATURES: Culture, History, Natural Landscapes

Located just to the south of Croatia, day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro are a popular choice. The country border is less than one hour from Dubrovnik.

This Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik departs early in the morning, stopping at viewpoints to get a different perspective of the city. You’ll carry on travelling south through the photogenic regions of Župa Dubrovačka and the Konavle until you get to the border crossing to Montenegro.

The journey takes you past Kotor Bay and onto your first stop at the picturesque coastal town of Perast. From here you can even opt to take a short boat trip over to the quaintly named ‘Our Lady of the Rocks’.

Day trips from Dubrovnik to Kotor come with a knowledgeable guide, and throughout the day will tell you about Montenegro’s history and legends. In the town of Kotor, after the tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore by yourself and take in the iconic landmarks.

The final destination is Budva, with its cobbled old town and clean sandy beaches to relax on. Your guide will show you all the best bits before leaving you with time to enjoy the tranquillity.

Important Note: If you’re doing this Dubrovnik to Kotor day trip, don’t forget your passport!

3. Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11-13 hours

📍 FEATURES: Nature, Waterfalls, UNESCO Site

Note: Although this is doable in a day, it does involve at least 4 hours of driving each way. If it’s just waterfalls you want to see then you might prefer to visit Kravice Waterfalls instead.

However, if you’re mind is set on visiting this stunning UNESCO-listed landmark, that is, Plitvice Lakes, then you’ll be rewarded for the long journey from Dubrovnik to one of Croatia’s most iconic destinations.

This was the first and the largest national park in Croatia. The national park was founded in 1949 and then in 1979 became a UNESCO world heritage site.

The park consists of 16 picturesque lakes which are connected by a series of cascades and waterfalls. The waters of the lakes are enchanting coloured bright blue, green and azure depending on the minerals in each of the lakes.

You cannot swim in the lakes, but the 8km of pathways and wooden walkways over the water make it possible to view the lakes and waterfalls up close, making these a must-see in Croatia .

Surrounding the lakes are dense forests, the park covers an area of 29,482 hectares and is home to deer, wild boar, a plethora of birds as well as wolves and bears, although they tend to steer clear of tourists.

Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes Day Trip

If you’re visiting Plitvice Lakes, and you love hiking, then I recommend staying in the area and doing The Pljesevica Mountain Trek right on the Croatia/Bosnia & Herzegovina border!

4. Dubrovnik to Split Day Trip

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours

📍 FEATURES: Culture, Sea Front Promenade, History

The pretty city of Split offers some of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the region. There are numerous day trips from Du brovnik to Split offering full-day tours, all set off early.

The beautiful city of Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and the main cultural centre in the region of Dalmatia.

Although there are numerous places of interest, be sure to visit the infamous 1700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace. Other places to add to your Split bucket list are the Peristil (also known as the Emperor’s Square), the Mestrovic Gallery, Split Cathedral and the bell tower of St. Duje.

Similar to Dubrovnik, the Split historical centre is filled with picturesque and narrow passages. After you’ve finished exploring the centre, head to the waterfront to walk along the Riva.

Dubrovnik to Split Day Trip

Read Also: The Best Croatia Bucket List

5. Ston and Korčula Tour and Tastings Day Trip From Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours

📍 FEATURES: Local Cuisine, Culture, History

If you’re looking for a great excursion from Dubrovnik and you want to try some authentic food and drink, then this is the perfect option.

This tour starts with a visit to the medieval town of Ston which is famous for its 5-kilometre city wall, oysters and salt ponds which still to this day, produce salt the traditional way. 

From here, head on to Potomje if you have time, be sure to taste some of the local wine and cheeses before catching the ferry from the port at Orebić and sailing to the island of Korčula. The birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo .

Once on Korčula, you’ll have a tour of the island and find out fascinating facts about the importance of Marco Polo. Did you know at the age of 17 he visited China and on his return, introduced Europe to civilized ways of life he discovered out there? He also discovered paper money and how to use oil as energy.

This day trip from Dubrovnik to Korcula also gives you free time to do some exploring of the island on your own as well as visit a winery to sample local wines and brandies.

Ston and Korčula Tour and Tastings Day Trip From Dubrovnik

6. Full-Day Peljesac Wine & Food Tour from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours

📍 FEATURES: Local Cuisine, Culture, Wine

For wine lovers, this has to be one of the best Dubrovnik day trips. You’ll be driven around the Pelješac peninsula in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, sampling some of the best locally produced wines.

Wine-tasting day trips in Dubrovnik province are also a great option if you don’t want to spend hours of the day travelling somewhere. The Peljesac peninsula and Dingac are one of Croatia’s best wine-producing regions.

The ancient Greeks started growing grapes here over 4,000 years ago. The tour meanders through the stunning peninsula, with hillsides and fields filled with vineyards. This is a great insight into local and traditional life compared to that in Dubrovnik.

You’ll get to visit three different wine cellars, and farms and experience a cooking class on this tour, sampling several wines at each stop. These cellars have been chosen for the tour because they serve some of the finest wines in the country.

As part of this tour, you’ll also get to visit the family-owned farm, which is known for salt and oyster production.

Full-Day Peljesac Wine & Food Tour from Dubrovnik

7. Elaphiti Islands Day Trip from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours

📍 FEATURES: Sailing, Beaches, History

If you’re after a relaxing day tour from Dubrovnik, then island-hopping around the Elafiti islands will be right up your streak. This is one of the top day trips from Dubrovnik.

Most day trips from Dubrovnik to the islands include all your transportation. You’ll get picked up from your hotel and driven to the port of Gruž where you’ll pick up your boat.

You’ll be visiting the three islands that make up the Elaphiti islands; these are Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, all doable on day boat trips in Dubrovnik.

The first island you’ll stop at is Koločep. This island is the summer residence of the nobility of Republic Ragusa, and you can see why! You’ll have plenty of time to wander about and explore the medieval history of Koločep island before moving on to your next stop.

The next stop is Sipan Island, where you can choose to relax or follow the walking trail around the island to work up your appetite for lunch. Lunch is served on the boat , you’ll have a choice of three menus; fish, meat or vegetarian.

The final stop for the Croatian island hopping tour is the island of Lopud. Here you’ll have the option to swim or sunbathe on the sandy Šunj Beach. beach before sailing back to Dubrovnik in the late afternoon. This is one of the best island day trips from Dubrovnik .

Related Article: Island Hopping In Southern Croatia

8. Hiking and Swimming Around Kolocep Island

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours

📍 FEATURES: Hiking, Nature, Swimming

If you’re looking to escape the bustle and crowds of Dubrovnik and get out into nature, then this tour is for you. This beautiful green island provides a great location to get out into nature. The smell of the Adriatic plants is remarkable as you breathe in the aromatic air.

Kolocep Island is the southernmost inhabited island in Croatia. This is one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik if you’re desperate for some tranquillity and something a little bit different.

The island is not only beautiful to kayak around but also, covered in hiking trails and footpaths.

Your guide will show you various hidden places and coves on the island, as well as some great swimming spots and if you’re feeling brave, top cliff jumping opportunities, all of them away from the crowded beaches.

Hiking and Swimming Around Kolocep Island

Related Article: Discover Losinj, Croatia’s Hidden Gem

9. Odysseus Cave, Blue Cave and 3 Islands Snorkel & Speedboat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10.5 hours

📍 FEATURES: Sailing, Beaches, Snorkelling

If you’re looking for more adventurous trips from Dubrovnik , then combining a speedboat tour, with caves and snorkelling will be right up your street. On this tour, you’ll also get to visit some of the places near Dubrovnik where there are quieter beaches.

This day tour consists of zipping between various islands and coves in a speedboat, stopping off at hidden bays and caves to snorkel and swim. You could, of course, spend the time relaxing on the nearby beaches, but with the crystal clear water looking so inviting, it would be rude not to go in.

You’ll get to visit the Odysseus Cave, which boasts pristine blue water, perfect for snorkelling and trying to spot fish and other sea life.

You’ll also spend time at the Blue Cave off Kolocep Island. This stunning cave is filled with crystal-clear azure waters. No one can resist a swim and snorkelling here. 

After some time at the cave, you’ll head back towards Dubrovnik with a panoramic view of the sun setting over the city, greeting you as you return to land. This full-day multi-island day trips from Dubrovnik is perfect for seeing a lot in a short space of time.

Odysseus Cave, Blue Cave and 3 Islands Snorkel & Speedboat Tour

10. Private Speedboat Cruise to Mljet from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours

📍 FEATURES: Island Hopping, Swimming, Exclusivity

Don’t want to be stuck on a boat with a ton of other people? Then why not hire a speedboat for an exclusive tour ?

Mljet Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia, featuring hidden bays and crystal clear waters.

Your personal skipper can help you to plan one of the best boat day trips from Dubrovnik. You could opt to get out and walk around the stunning Mljet National Park with its sea lakes and 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

The park is only accessible by boat, so it’s a great place to get away from the bustle of the city. Alternatively, you could explore the mythical coves, which the Greek hero, Odysseus, is said to have been lured to.

Whatever you opt for, this is one of the most relaxing and beautiful day trips to the islands from Dubrovnik.

Private Speedboat Cruise to Mljet from Dubrovnik

11. National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours

📍 FEATURES: Walking, Nature, Sailing

The Dubrovnik to Mljet day trip is the most efficient way to see the National Park. The (creatively named) Big and Small Lake as well as the beautiful Benedictine Monastery on St Mary’s Island are popular attractions here.

Your day starts at the port of Gruz where you’ll take a catamaran over to the Island of Mljet. You’ll then drive to Pristanište before starting your guided hike in the National Park. This is followed by a short boat ride over to the island of St. Mary to visit the Benedictine Monastery.

After lunch, you’ll have time to explore the island on your own, walk some of the trails, relax or swim in the cooling water before heading back to Dubrovnik.

National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik

12. Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours

📍 FEATURES: Culture, Traditional Cuisine, Wine

If you’ve been in Croatia for even just a short time, one thing you’ll already know is that Croatian food is delicious ! Fragrant fruits, fresh produce and wholesome food. One of the best things to do near Dubrovnik if you’re a foodie is to take part in a cooking class.

You’ll spend the day in a beautiful rural estate in the Dalmatian countryside learning the secrets of how to recreate delicious and authentic Croatian dishes .

Enjoy a welcome drink as your instructor talks you through the day before you get set up and equipped for a full day of cooking. 

What you cook will vary depending on the season and which product is available from the household garden. Although you might not know exactly what you’ll be cooking too far in advance, you can rest assured that it’s going to be delicious.

Typically, you’ll learn how to make traditional Dalmatian “peka” (which is a dish baked under an iron bell) as well as “menestra” (a cabbage and potato stew). You’ll also get to try your hand at creating Dalmatian-style bread.

Naturally, after all that cooking, the best part. You’ll get to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labour as you feast on everything you’ve created during the session, all over a glass of locally produced Croatian wine.

Remember to state any dietary requirements before taking part.

Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik

13. Day Trip to Krka National Park From Dubrovnik

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 12 hours

📍 FEATURES: Waterfalls, Scenery, Swimming

If chasing waterfalls is your thing, then it’s certainly worthwhile checking out the 17 waterfalls at Krka National Park.

Depart from Dubrovnik and head to the natural wonders at Krka National Park which is home to 17 different waterfalls. During the drive, your guide and personal driver will tell you stories about the 2000 years of turbulent history in this region.

At Krka National Park , you will explore on foot. Your guide will come with you, answering all of your questions as well as giving you insider knowledge and showing you the most scenic places. Don’t miss the medieval Franciscan monastery which dates back to the 14th century, located in the middle of Lake Visovac.

Look out for Skradinski Buk, the park’s largest waterfall. Other stunning cascades are the stunning Krčić, Roški, and Risnjak waterfalls. You’ll also have plenty of free time to swim in the lakes and rivers, as well as walk the trails and discover some of the quaint and historical mill cottages.

Day Trip to Krka National Park From Dubrovnik

14. Day Trip From Dubrovnik to Medjugorje & Apparition Hill

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours

📍 FEATURES: History, Religion, and Pilgrimage Sites

If you enjoy visiting religious sites, then it’s worthwhile checking out day trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia & Herzegovina and to the town of Medjugorje .

It’s become a Catholic pilgrimage destination. This is because, in 1981, six local children claimed they had seen visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since then it’s become Europe’s third most important apparition site attracting over 1 million visitors per year who visit Apparition Hill.

If you time your visit, you’ll also be able to attend a church service here before exploring the town of Međugorje

Remember to take your passport on this tour.

Day Trip From Dubrovnik to Medjugorje & Apparition Hill

• Great For Stunning Marina, Nightlife, Secluded Beaches
• Duration: 12+ hours

Good To Know

Although this is doable in a day, it does involve hiring a car or a private driver, and at least 4 hours of driving each way plus a ferry connection. If it’s just a beautiful island tour you’re after, then you might prefer to visit Elaphite Islands instead.

However, if your mind is set on visiting Hvar, and you’re after a bit of glam, then you’ll love this destination. Because of its distance, you’ll struggle to find organised day trips from Dubrovnik to Hvar. 

It’s a loooonnng way BUT it is doable if you have your own car and plan the ferry crossings (if you have the time, make this into a two-day trip and stay overnight on the island).  Use Omio App to find the best prices on transfers.

This is a great destination if you’re after some luxury. During the summer months, the Hvar marina fills with yachts. The restaurants and bars surrounding the area become a bustling hub of glamour as well as Hula Hula Beach in Hvar which boasts a lively nightlife.

If you do choose to stay overnight, then you’ll also have time to take one of the local ferries over to the Pakleni Islands, located just offshore. On these islands, you’ll find some of Croatia’s most secluded beaches.

Best Half Day Trips From Dubrovnik

If you don’t have time during your Dubrovnik itinerary to take a full-day trip, but you still want to explore places in the local area, then two great options are Cavtat and Lokrum Island.

Located 18km south of Dubrovnik, this cute little fishing town is accessible by boat, taxi or bus. Historically, Cavtat started as a fishing village, and it still holds on to some of that charm. If the crowds in Dubrovnik become too much, this is a great place to escape and enjoy a much more relaxed vibe.

Lokrum Island is a beautiful Nature Reserve just off the coast of Dubrovnik; you can see Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik, it’s a 15-minute boat ride away.

Although you could easily whittle away a day on the beaches here (there’s even a nudist beach!) other places of interest here are the botanical gardens, Fort Royal and the Benedictine Monastery.

Day Trips From Dubrovnik, Croatia – FAQs

This article has given you 15 great places to visit from Dubrovnik. The next section gives answers to questions you might have about planning any of these Dubrovnik trips.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik?

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Dubrovnik. These seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer season. However, Dubrovnik can be enjoyed year-round depending on personal preferences.

How Many Days in Dubrovnik Is Enough?

To experience the highlights of Dubrovnik , a minimum of two to three days is recommended. This allows time to explore the historic Old Town, walk the city walls, visit nearby islands, and enjoy the local cuisine. However, staying longer will provide a more relaxed and immersive experience.

What to Visit Around Dubrovnik City?

Two popular destinations to visit around Dubrovnik are Cavtat and Lokrum Island. Cavtat is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque waterfront, historic sites, and beautiful beaches. Lokrum Island, located just off the coast, offers stunning nature, peacocks, a botanical garden, and swimming opportunities in the Dead Sea Lake.

What Are the Best Day Trips From Croatia?

Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro are neighbouring countries to Croatia and make excellent day trip destinations. From Croatia, you can take day trips to visit the historic city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina or explore the stunning Bay of Kotor and the charming town of Kotor in Montenegro.

What to See in Dubrovnik in 1 Day?

Wondering what to see in Dubrovnik in one day? Make sure to visit the iconic city walls for panoramic views, explore the Game of Thrones filming locations, take a cable car up Srd Hill for fascinating vistas, and stroll around the charming Old Harbour, enjoying the atmosphere and waterfront attractions.

How Far Is Krka National Park From Dubrovnik?

Krka National Park is located approximately 300 kilometres (186 miles) north of Dubrovnik. The driving distance between the two destinations is around 4 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. Day trips from Dubrovnik to Krka National Park are possible, but they require a significant amount of travel time.

Is Dubrovnik Well Connected to Travel Independently?

Yes. If you don’t want to go as part of an organised tour, then most destinations in this list are accessible by public transport. True, you might be able to do it cheaper by booking your travel independently, but if you only have one day to do an excursion, it’s often worth paying for someone to do the organising and driving for you.

A great place to look for the best transportation deals and options is Omio .

Is It Safe to Self-Drive in the Balkan States?

On the whole, the Balkans are safe to drive in. Roads to the main tourist attractions are generally well-maintained. If you hire a car to self-drive then make sure you’ve read up about the local health and safety guidance, as well as make sure your car insurance policy covers you for taking a vehicle across borders.

What Are Easy Day Trips From Dubrovnik?

Yes, the ones which don’t involve a lot of time spent travelling are by far the easiest. Two great options for this are the traditional Croatian cooking class or a full-day wine tour around Peljesac .

What Are the Best Dubrovnik Island Trips?

Basically, they are all stunning! Whichever one you choose from this list, you’ll be sure to find beautiful, blue seas and secluded coves. It basically depends on the extra activities you want to do, such as exploring national parks or just relaxing on the beach. But in short, the Elephite Islands or Mljet National Park won’t disappoint.

Can I Do a Day Trip From Dubrovnik to Venice?

In short. No. If you were desperate to go, you could catch a flight direct to Venice from Dubrovnik. Alternatively, if you have the time, you could go by ferry. Ferries depart several times a week, however, this can take over 20 hours and doesn’t go direct.

Check on the Omio app. It will give you the best travel deals for trains, buses, flights and ferries.

Well, you could. If you wanted to drive over 300km each way. You’ll be hard-pushed to find any day trips to Albania from Dubrovnik. Realistically, visiting Albania from Dubrovnik is a bit over-ambitious for a day trip. However, this would make a great part of a Balkans road trip itinerary.

Which of These Dubrovnik Excursions Are You Tempted By?

I hope this travel guide has given you loads of great options for the best day trips from Dubrovnik. The decision is ultimately what your interests are.

From exploring gorgeous UNESCO cities to getting out in nature or exploring other countries nearby, you’ll find plenty of day tours from Dubrovnik for every style of traveller.

Travelling around Croatia? Check out these other inspirational articles…

• Best Dubrovnik 2 Days Itinerary
• Island Hopping in Southern Croatia
• Best Small Group Tours of Croatia
• 26 Ideas For Your Croatia Bucket List

If you found this Croatia travel guide useful, save this post for future reference. Know someone else who will find this helpful, then why not share it with them?

Have a question about planning your Croatia itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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14 BEST Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for the best day trips from Dubrovnik? From visiting Bosnia to sailing around the Elefati Islands, check out these tours for your next trip!

I’ve said it so many times on this blog but I adore Croatia . It’s without a doubt one of my favourite countries in the world and that’s saying something!

It doesn’t matter if you’re wandering the streets of Dubrovnik , sitting in the the shadows of Diocletian’s Palace in Split or island hopping around Hvar, there’s just so much to see and do here.

One place everyone flocks to is the capital of Dubrovnik. I’ve been a few times myself and every time I find a new alleyway to explore or local restaurant to eat at. Walking around the streets here feels like you’ve stepped back in time. That, or if feels like you’re on the set of Game of Thrones!

Outside the old town walls, Dubrovnik is a Mediterranean paradise. From beautiful beaches to cozy restaurants where you can order fish of the day, I really recommend going on a few day trips from Dubrovnik.

One of the most popular Dubrovnik day trips is to Mostar in Bosnia. Here you can see locals jumping off the massive 24-metre high bridge (I even did the Mostar bridge jump myself!) and it is such a stunning place in the Balkans.

Another fantastic day trip is further down the Adriatic Coast to the seaside towns of Budvar and Kotor in Montenegro . They’re well worth visiting in their own right but a day trip will give you a taster as to what they’re like.

So, from sailing around the Elafati Islands to visiting the gorgeous Kravice Waterfalls, these are some of the best tours from Dubrovnik for your next holiday. 

Planning a trip to Croatia? Then make sure you read my guides on the best adventures in Croatia , the best day trips from Split , and where to stay in Dubrovnik . And as a little more inspiration, here are some of my favourite photos of Croatia to really get you excited for your holiday.

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

1. kravice waterfalls, bosnia.

There’s a reason why this is one of the best tours from Dubrovnik. It’s a bit of a secret, but Kravice Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in the Balkans.

One of the reasons why these are waterfalls are so great is you can swim at them. Unfortunately, both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park are closed to swimmers. That’s why it’s worth making the journey to Kravice.

Also, another bonus of visiting Kravice over Plitvice and Krka is there aren’t as many tourists here. There’s a fraction of the tourists than you’d see in Croatia.

On a warm summer’s day, there’s nothing better than going for a dip in the cooling pools and admiring the forest area that surrounds you.

A tour of Kravice Waterfalls and Mostar costs £52/$60 . This is for a full-day tour (10 hours) and includes all guides, entrance fees and transfers.

2. Korčula, Croatia

Go on a 2.5-hour catamaran ride from Dubrovnik and you’ll find the beautiful island of Korčula. This place is where the famous explorer Marco Polo was born and you can actually see the house in which he used to live.

Steeped in history, the medieval walled town is well worth visiting. From St Mark’s Cathedral to other historical buildings and monuments, there are so many cultural hotspots to visit in the Old Town.

However, the main attractions on the island are the peaceful bays where you can spend a whole day swimming in the beautiful Adriatic Sea. I also like the picturesque countryside here which is dotted with vineyards, pine trees and olive trees. You can even pop into a couple of the vineyards for wine tasting too which I highly recommend!

A tour of Korcula and Peljesac Peninsula costs £58/$68 . This is for a full-day tour (11 hours) and includes all guides and transfers.

3. The Elaphiti Islands, Croatia

There are so many fascinating day trips from Dubrovnik to choose from. Well, a visit to the Elaphiti Islands is definitely right up there. The good news is these islands are easily reachable and you can even go island hopping to all the different islands.

Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan are the three main islands on this small archipelago. They are actually the only 3 inhabited islands out of the 13. The other 10 are a lot smaller and quieter, though you can explore these too.

The peaceful beaches offer an ideal getaway from the busy streets of Dubrovnik. The waters around these islands are quite calm, which means ideal conditions for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The Elaphiti Islands are actually one of the best dive sites in Croatia so that’s just another thing to add to the list!

A tour of the Elaphiti Islands on board a galleon costs £43/$54. This is for a full-day tour (9 hours) and includes all food, wine, guides and transfers.

4. Mostar, Bosnia

I always recommend a day trip to Mostar on any trip to Dubrovnik. Why? Well, this rustic town in Bosnia is well-known for its picturesque bridge and old world charm. I’d even go as far to say it’s my favourite place in Bosnia!

One of the major attractions here is watching the infamous bridge divers looking to impress the locals and the ladies. They take the death defying leap off a 24 metre high bridge into the river below. It really is such an experience to watch and you can even do it yourself too (if you’re brave enough that is!)

For a unique local experience, walk down to the Old Bazaar where you can have a cup of traditional Turkish coffee and purchase local crafts. There’s a big Arabic influence to Mostar which is why it’s such a different place to visit compared to other towns around. Personally, I think this is one of the best Dubrovnik day trips you can do!

A tour of Mostar discovering all the city has to offer costs £52/$60 . This is for a full-day tour (12 hours) and includes all guides and transfers.

5. Kotor, Montenegro

If you haven’t heard of Kotor before then you’re in for a treat. The medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the cutest places around.

Kotor is also a very romantic destination so this is the perfect day trip if you’re travelling with your partner. I guess it’s because of all the picturesque town squares and the narrow cobblestone streets in the old own.

Although there are only a couple of stone beaches here in the city, you can always go to nearby villages like Orahovac and Ljuta where you will be greeted with 2 secluded beaches with turquoise waters.

A tour of Kotor, Perast and Budva in Montenegro costs £63/$80. This is for a full-day tour (11 hours) and includes all guides, entrance fees and transfers. This is usually a really good group tour to join.

6. Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia

Since I’m crazy about food and wine, a day trip from Dubrovnik to Peljesac Peninsula is always a must for me.

This is the largest peninsula in Dalmatia and one of the best wine regions in the area. Go to Matusko Winery or Milos Winery to sample some of the finest wines Croatia has to offer.

Don’t let me get started about the food here. From shellfish and oysters and cheese plates and prosciutto, every bite you take is just delicious.

As for the beaches, there are spectacular in every way. Explore the hidden coves, book a boat trip and go scuba diving, or have a refreshing cocktail at one of the laid-back beach bars.

A tour of Peljesac and Korcula costs £58/$68 . This is for a full-day tour (11 hours) and includes all guides, entrance fees and transfers. There’s even a wine tasting session in there for good measure too!

7. Cavtat, Croatia

For a less touristy experience, I recommend paying a visit to the lovely town of Cavtat. It is located just a 20-minute drive southeast of Dubrovnik and boasts a charming old town with cobbled streets and plenty of historical buildings.

Check out the Rector’s Palace, explore the fabulous Racic Mausoleum, and admire St. Nicholas Church while wandering the streets of Cavtat.

On the waterfront, expect to find dozens of cute cafes and restaurants where you can stop to have lunch. And if you want to go sunbathing, there are 2 beaches that offer ideal conditions for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding too.

Cavtat is one of those very Croatian towns where the pace of life is a lot slower, so it’s perfect for a day trip and to kick back and relax in. Also, there aren’t as many tourists here as other places, so that’s a plus too.

8. Sarajevo, Bosnia

Had enough of beach time and being lazy on a sunbed? Next on my list of Dubrovnik day tours is the capital city of Bosnia & Herzegovina – Sarajevo. Known for its troubled past, this remarkable city offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained for a week. A tour here will give you a really good taster of what the city is like though.

Visit the old bazaar also known as Baščaršija. Here you will have an opportunity to try the traditional food Cevapi. They are basically kebabs made of minced meat, fried on the grill, and served in somun with garlic. It’s the most famous dish you can get in Bosnia and they are delicious.

A private tour of Sarajevo costs £303/$355 . This is for a full-day tour (12 hours) and includes all guides, entrance fees and private transfers. Obviously this is very expensive but it is for a private tour!

9. Trogir, Croatia

Located just 30 km outside Split, Trogir is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dalmatia. Take a walk down the picturesque sea promenade, admire the renaissance and baroque-style buildings, and try local seafood specialties at one of the waterfront restaurants.

There are no beaches in the center of the city, but the Medena beach in the nearby village of Seget Donji is quite amazing. No visit to Trogir is complete without checking out the Ciovo Island, which is located just across the bridge from the city’s old town.

I really like Trogir though. It’s very chilled, very quiet, very easy going. It’s one of those places where you order a beer in the main square watching the world go by and all of a sudden hours have past by.

10. Island of Mljet, Croatia

A visit to the island of Mljet is without a doubt one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik. I mean, just look at how beautiful it is!

Easily accessible by catamaran, Mljet is a small island that offers a peaceful getaway from the busy streets of Dubrovnik. It’s a great place for travelers who like nature and long walks.

Mljet National Park is also home to some of the most picturesque beaches in all of Europe. Want to hear the good news? You can have them all to yourself as there aren’t many tourists here. There are no fancy resorts on the island, just one supermarket, and a couple of restaurants.

The biggest draw here and the most visited place is the national park that consists of a Big Lake and a Small Lake. I recommend renting a bike and exploring this lovely national park.

A tour of the island of Mljet costs £71/$83 . This is for a full-day tour (11 hours) and includes all guides, entrance fees and  transfers including a catamaran trip.

11. Budva, Montenegro

If you are in the party mode, Budva in Montenegro is the place you’ll want to visit. With plenty of nightclubs and bars to choose from, this city is well-known for its vibrant nightlife. There are also nice beaches where you can relax during the day and sweat off that hangover.

Thanks to its old town, Budva is also a good destination for travelers who are interested in history and culture. This part of the city is not that large, but once you step inside these walls, it will feel like traveling back in time. Explore the cute narrow streets of this pedestrian-only area and buy some souvenirs from the locals.

12. Ston, Croatia

As far as Dubrovnik tours go, this one is right up there.

A truly hidden gem, the village of Ston is located right on the Pelješac peninsula. There are a couple of nice vineyards worth checking out here, as well as the famous Ston Walls Entrance and Fort Kastio.

The medieval town center looks amazing, while the cute village of Olipa is also easily reachable. Ston is a great place to enjoy some fresh seafood, as the city is famed for its flat oysters and mussels.

A tour of Ston costs £63/$74 . This is for a half-day tour (5 hours) and includes an oyster tasting session, guides and transfers. This is a really good tour for small groups.

13. Pelješac P eninsula, Croatia

If you want to see the best of the Croatian coastline then head straight to the Pelješac Peninsula. This place boasts stunning beaches, hidden coves, oyster and clam farms for all your seafood needs, and delicious wines to wash it all down too.

As I’ve already mentioned with Ston, Pelješac is one of the best wine regions in Croatia. If you’re on a Croatian road trip it’s worth spending a couple of days in Pelješac and heading to a couple of the vineyards here.

For me though, it’s hard not taking a million photos while hiking the peninsula. There are some really fantastic trails to hike on here. As you can see, the views are something else.

A food and wine tour of Pelješac from Dubrovnik costs £132/$155 . This is for a full day tour (8 hours) and includes visiting 3 different wineries, a traditional peasant brunch at a typical Dalmatian pub and some of the best oysters around.

14. Medjugorje, Croatia

If you’re looking for an alternative day trip from Dubrovnik then this might be the one for you. Medjugorje is one of the most spiritual sites in all of Europe.

As the second largest Catholic pilgrimage site in the world, it’s said Mother Mary spoke to six teenagers here in 1981. People have been flocking here as a pilgrimage since then.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re religious or not, the peace and tranquility at Medjugorje is all around. It really is a stunning spot to visit and as I said, it’s a very different type of trip.

A tour of Medjugorje costs £51/$59 . This is for a full day tour (11 hours) and includes a little pilgrimage to Apparition Hill where Mary was seen all those years ago.

Which of these Dubrovnik day trips would you go on? I would love to know what you’ve got planned for your trip to Croatia so let me know in the comments below!

Thinking of going to Montenegro? Then check out my detailed guide on travelling from Dubrovnik to Montenegro to help plan your trip!

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Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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2 thoughts on “14 BEST Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia”

Thank you very much for such an informative post! We have been to some of those places on a list, but your post just shows us how much we still need to visit! We haven’t been to Pelješac Peninsula – it does look stunning! By the way, you have one mistake in the first section 1. Kravice Waterfalls – you have misspelled Krka Nation park (It’s Krka, not Krkr). Safe travels, Martina.

Thanks for pointing that out! And yes, there’s definitely a lot to see in Croatia and the surrounding countries – one of my favourite places in the world!

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Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

15 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

The coastal Croatian city of Dubrovnik is majestic and enchanting. Once a hidden gem tucked away in Eastern Europe, Dubrovnik has had a surge in popularity over the past few years thanks to television shows and movies using its picturesque cityscape as a backdrop for their film creations; namely Game of Thrones.

Although it is near impossible to tire of the charm of Dubrovnik the time may come to venture further afield to find Croatia’s next best kept secret location.

Without further ado, here are the best day trips from Dubrovnik for you to consider.

Mostar is a real cultural melting pot that has a rich and varied history to explore.

A visit to Mostar sees you cross international borders into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The most iconic landmark of Mostar is the Stari Most, a fairytale-like arched bridge that was built in 1566. The Mosque of Mostar is an incredible building with a fascinating past to discover.

You can find out all you need to know about Mostar and the surrounding areas at the Muzej Hercegovine which houses hundreds of photographs and artefacts from years gone by.

If you are short on time you can incorporate a flying visit to the towns of Pocitelj and Medjugorje too.

Although all three are worthy of a day trip each of their own.

A visit to Budva would see you cross international borders into the sovereign state of Montenegro.

This city really is one of Europe’s most prized hidden gems.

Budva is the most significant city in Montenegro and is something of a tourist hub, it is not hard to see why.

Terracotta tiled roofs bounce off the contrasting azure blue backdrop of the Adriatic Sea to make one of the most picturesque towns in the world.

This cosy town has a vibrant nightlife so stay out as late as you can before heading back to Dubrovnik.

The beaches and bays of Budva are the stuff of dreams so bring your sun hat and your beach towel and make the most of every minute.

Just to the southeast of Dubrovnik is the mesmerising town of Cavtat.

Sitting too on the Adriatic Coast, Cavtat is famed for its pristine beaches and iconic Illyrian necropolises that are sprinkled throughout the town.

You have not one but two beaches to choose from and you can surely walk the length of both during a day trip.

In the morning take a relaxed stroll down Mlini Beach taking in the views of the bay while the sun works its way to its peak.

After a hearty lunch in Cavtat town itself move on to Srebreno Beach and Cavtat harbour.

Do not miss the opportunity to marvel at Rector’s Palace and St. Nicholas Church before you depart.

4. Elaphite Islands

Island hopping is a holiday hobby usually reserved for Southeast Asia or perhaps the Caribbean but Croatia too offers you this marvellous adventure.

This humble archipelago is a popular day trip from Dubrovnik and there are a great number of local tour operators and solo boat owners who will take you from one to another to another during the course of a day.

The three largest islands of Koločep, Lopud and Šipan are exquisite and are not to be missed.

In the summer months in particular the waters around the Elaphite Islands is warm and calm, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and if you’re licensed scuba diving too.

5. Kravice Waterfalls

The Kravice Waterfalls can be found tucked away in neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina.

These tufa casades of the Trebižat River are surely one of the most breathtaking natural wonders you will ever experience.

On a sunny day the water appears to dance and micro-rainbows appear in the spray from the powerful force of the water.

The Kravice Waterfalls are one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most iconic landscapes and if you haven’t heard the name before you have surely seen a photo or two.

On a hot day there is nothing more refreshing than dipping your toes into the cooling pools that surround the falls and forest area.

Did you know that Croatia has an incredible wine industry? Perhaps not, but it does and one of the finest places to sample this distinct wine is on the island of Korcula.

There is an old Croatian phrase that claims ‘a day without wine is like a day without sunshine’ – who are we to disagree.

Korcula is genuinely like something out of a fairytale.

This walled town is in fact the birthplace of Marco Polo.

Steeped in history and now home to a thriving wine industry there is a lot to explore and even more to enjoy on Korcula Island.

7. Pelješac

If you want to experience the best of the Mediterranean coastline then a visit to Pelješac will see you right.

This picturesque peninsula features hidden coves, secret beaches, bountiful oyster bays and phenomenal wineries.

Pelješac is another of Croatia’s secret wine regions and has some exquisite beverages for you to sample.

The most famous vineyard in Pelješac is Matusko Winery and you can drop by to sample and buy their wine throughout the week.

The drive from Dubrovnik to Pelješac is enough to ignite your wanderlust and fill your memory card with photos.

For those who like a hike be sure to get your boots on and explore Sveti Ilija.

Split is one of Croatia’s major cities and sits on the Dalmatian Coast.

This captivating city is a joy to explore and can be toured easily in the space of a day.

Highlights include the Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Dominus.

The Cathedral of Saint Dominus dates back to the 4th-Century and will quite possibly be the oldest building you ever set foot in.

Well set up for passing tourists, there are dozens of cafes, bars and souvenir shops to explore.

This city is so very picturesque with the added bonus that once you have finished hitting up the incredible landmarks you can chill out on the beach.

The city of Trogir is an architectural mishmash featuring buildings in Renaissance, baroque and Romanesque style; it’s really quite incredible.

Three quarters of the city sits on the mainland and the final quarter is an island all of its own, called Čiovo.

Čiovo is, however, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges.

Architectural highlights include the Trogir Cathedral and Cipiko Palace.

In the summer months the beachside promenade is buzzing and bustling.

Cafes open their doors out onto the streets and place their tables and chairs out under the spinning water mist fans.

There is a relaxed and easy feel to Trogir that will see you struggle to return to darling Dubrovnik at the end of the day.

The village of Ston is a true hidden gem that is nestled away on the Pelješac peninsula.

A visit to Ston sees you experience Croatia at its most authentic and it is a privilege to behold.

The Ston Walls Entrance and Fort Kastio are not to be missed.

You can team a visit to Ston with neighbouring village Olipa.

Ston is famous for its oysters and as such you really should treat yourself to a slap-up local oyster lunch accompanied by Ston village made wine.

From Ston it is possible to visit the vineyards of Dingac and Postup which make a great addition to the day.

The coastal town of Kotor falls within the sovereign state of Montenegro.

This fortified town is another of Eastern Europe’s medieval hidden gems.

There is a certain romance to Kotor with is labyrinth of winding stone streets and town squares.

The town itself lies comfortably between the tranquil Bay of Kotor and the moody mountains behind making for an incredibly photogenic environment.

The Kotor Cathedral and the Maritime Museum can be visited over the course of your morning, as too can the novel Cats Museum.

In the afternoon you can spend time sauntering through the stoney streets soaking up the rustic charm of this medieval wonder.

12. Medjugorje

Medjugorje is one of the most holy, sacred and spiritual sites in all of Europe.

As the second largest Catholic pilgrimage site in the world it is said that Mother Mary graced the earth here in 1981 and spoke to a group of six teenagers.

Returning to speak with visitors over and over the skepticism soon evaporated and in turn Medjugorje the pilgrimage site was born.

The peace and tranquility of this site is palpable, you need not be of faith to appreciate the awe and wonder that surrounds this holy ground.

While visiting the holy spot you can find time to visit the villages of Medjugorje and Bijakovici themselves to speak with locals about their life in this holy land.

13. Konavle Valley

The Konavle Valley is one of the most impressive landscapes in Croatia and sits at the southernmost tip of the country.

On your way through the valley your first stop will likely be at the Sokol Kula or ‘Falcon Fort’. Scale the stairs to the top of the fort you will be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views of the cliffs below and the mountains above.

The route though the Konavle Valley follows the flow of the River Ljuta and you’ll pass dozens of charming farms and homesteads.

It is possible to couple a tour of the Konavle Valley with an afternoon in the town of Cavat should you wish.

14. Sarajevo

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is an easily accessible day trip from Dubrovnik.

This little known city has a wealth of history and culture to discover.

Start with a visit to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque in the morning to learn how the Muslim community has shaped Sarajevo into the city that it is today.

In the afternoon take a visit to the fascinating Sarajevo Tunnel.

This tunnel complex was used during the Bosnian war and features a small but incredibly informative military war museum back on ground level.

Ensure to find time to visit Baščaršija the old bazaar of Sarajevo.

15. Mljet Island

Mljet Island is both the southernmost and easternmost of the larger Adriatic Islands and is one of the most beautifully, dreamy destinations you could ever wish for.

Romantic, seductive and totally enchanting chances are if you visit Mljet Island you will never want to leave.

There is just a single road that transects the island, connecting the monastery to the port.

Mljet Island features olive groves, vineyards and undisturbed natural forest.

Snorkelling and diving off the shores of Mljet Island is something quite incredible.

The water is oh so clear and the marine life oh so abundant.

15 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik:

• Elaphite Islands
• Kravice Waterfalls
• Konavle Valley
• Mljet Island

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17 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best day trips from dubrovnik.

If you’ve chosen to base yourself in Dubrovnik for your Croatian adventure, you’re in for a treat! There are a ton of incredible day trip options nearby, waiting to be discovered.

Living in Croatia since 2014 has given me the unique opportunity to thoroughly explore its landscapes, and Dubrovnik has been a frequent stop on my travels. And while a couple of days in Dubrovnik are enough to soak in the historic charm of the town, I highly recommend extending your stay.

Southern Croatia has a lot to offer, so on this list you’ll find carefully curated blend of my own favorite spots and trusted recommendations from local friends in Dubrovnik.

Whether you’re looking to discover neighboring countries or just want to do a quick visit to some nearby islands, this list will keep you busy exploring.

Ready to discover what lies beyond the stunning walls of Dubrovnik? Keep reading!

Table of Contents 👇

17 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik Croatia

Starting off the list with my top pick: Take a day trip from Dubrovnik to Cavtat !

Cavtat is a darling seaside village located south of Dubrovnik, that effortlessly captures the essence of the Adriatic charm. Nestled in a secluded bay and surrounded by lush pine forests, Cavtat is like a mini-Dubrovnik but much more laid-back.

The town’s palm-fringed promenade is lined with cozy cafes and authentic Dalmatian restaurants serving up local specialties.

If you’re there for lunch or dinner, grab a bite at Ludo More , where they offer limited quantities of freshly prepared seafood dishes depending on the catch of the day. The food here is incredibly delicious and the location on the water makes it all the more memorable. Be sure to try some of Croatia’s famous wines while you’re there, too!

Cavtat is also home to some lovely pebble and rustic rocky beaches around the perimeter of its peninsula. Overall, this romantic little port town is worthy of a day trip from Dubrovnik, and can even be an alternative to staying in the city for a night or two.

I did this once and stayed at this adorable vacation house that was just a few minutes walk from the beach and center of town!

📍 How to get there: Adriana Cavtat is the company that I used. They provide regular service to and from Dubrovnik Old Town to Cavtat, as well as the towns of Plat, Mlini, and Srebreno. You can book online in advance or purchase your ticket directly from the boat (just be aware that spots can fill up quickly during high season).

Lokrum is that emerald island you see in the distance from the walls of Dubrovnik . It’s a mecca of beauty and history, drawing visitors in for its lush gardens, rocky beaches, and mysterious aura.

The island is said to have been cursed, which is why no one is allowed to spend the night on the island. During the day, however, you can explore the botanical gardens, ancient ruins of the Benedictine Monastery, sit on the Iron Throne from Game of Thrones , and spot the island’s only permanent residents—peacocks and bunnies!

Other highlights of Lokrum include the Dead Sea, a highly salty oasis where you can float in crystal clear water surrounded by high rocks, go cliff jumping into the sparkling Adriatic Sea, and explore the unique rock formation of Buza.

Lokrum was one of my favorite day trips to take from Dubrovnik as it is a total breath of fresh air from the Old Town (literally). Just know that Lokrum is a special Nature Reserve, so if you’re traveling with your dog or other pet, they’ll have to sit this one out as they are not allowed on the island.

📍 How to get there: The Lokrum ferry departs frequently from the Old Town harbor in Dubrovnik, and is just a quick 10-minute ride to the island. Departure times change based on the season, so be sure to check the Lokrum Island ferry timetable on the  official Lokrum Island website . You can buy a return ferry ticket that includes entrance to the Nature Reserve at the Old Town harbor or online.

3. Montenegro (Kotor Bay, Perast and Budva)

Take a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro! Yup, that’s right. You can take a day trip from Dubrovnik to another country in just a few hours. One of the best towns to visit is Kotor, an architectural stunner made up of Venetian, Illyrian, and Ottoman influences.

Here, you’ll find a maze of cobblestone streets to explore while admiring the ancient walls, squares, museums, and palaces built centuries ago. One of things I love most about Kotor is the postcard-perfect bay, made up of steep mountains, that hugs the town.

While in Kotor, you can take a boat ride to Perast – a tiny coastal village with a totally different vibe than Kotor. This little town sits on a small strip of coastline that stretches just 1.5 kilometers, making it easy to walk its length in about 20 minutes!

Perast has several baroque churches and palaces that are worth visiting, as well as the nearby islets – St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks (which can be reached by boat). It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved towns on the Adriatic Coast, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

Continue your day by heading even further south and pay a visit to Budva, the party capital of Montenegro. So if you’re looking for a good time, Budva is the place to be! But it’s not all about partying, this seaside town also boasts spectacularly sandy beaches and its very own ancient stone walls.

📍 How to get there: Take an organized day tour from Dubrovnik to Kotor to get the most out of your visit.

If you’re into history, then you’ll definitely want to look into a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip . Located about a 2.5 hour drive away from Dubrovnik in Bosnia and Herzegovina, this tiny town is packed with an obscene amount of history.

Constructed in the 15th and 16th centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a city where history is not just seen but felt in every stone and street. From the famous Stari Most (Mostar Bosnia Bridge) to the intricate details in each building, Mostar is a prime example of an Ottoman-influenced frontier city.

Here you’ll witness architectural styles that seamlessly blend with Mediterranean and Western European influences. It’s impossible to overlook the bullet holes in the buildings that remain from the 1990s—an ever-present reminder of the city’s turbulent past.

As you stroll through the cobblestone laneways, make sure to sit down and order a traditional Turkish coffee somewhere. There are lots of places around town where you can do so, but my top pick is Restoran Sadrvan where you can also try some of the local cuisine. They have a beautiful outdoor patio and an even cooler Ottoman-style interior.

📍 How to get there: Unless you have a car rental, I’d recommend joining a tour to make the most out of your visit. The logistics will all be taken care of, and all you have to do is enjoy! This tour to Mostar includes a visit to Kravice Waterfalls as well.

5. Kravica Waterfall

Kravica Waterfall is a good day trip to pair with a visit to Mostar, as it is only 1 hour away from Mostar and located near the border of Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. If you’ve been dying to swim under waterfalls , Kravice Waterfalls are a great option since it is forbidden to swim in Krka National Park or Plitvice .

The water here is pretty chilly because it flows from the spring of the Trebižat River just 30 kilometers uphill from the falls. But temperatures can get get scorching hot in the summertime, so the cooling rush of the waterfalls is really refreshing.

In the Croatian language , Kravice means “little cows”, which is a funny name for a series of waterfalls. Legend has it that the waterfalls were once surrounded by pastures and they served as a watering hole for thirsty livestock. One baby cow leaned a little too far and fell off a 28-meter-high cliff but miraculously survived!

She happily swam down the river and that’s how the falls got their name . Today, the waterfalls are open for humans who want to swim, and there are also a few restaurants around where you can grab a snack. Just beware that the falls can get very busy in the summer!

📍 How to get there: Drive or join an organized tour like this one that includes a visit to both Mostar and Kravice, with plenty of time to enjoy both locations while not having to worry about parking, driving, or border crossings.

6. Pelješac Peninsula

Located just north of Dubrovnik, Peljesac is a peninsula that is a world away from the crowded town streets and the hustle and bustle of tourist centers. Peljesac is known for its vineyards, olive groves, fishing villages, and hidden coves with crystal-clear waters. From Ston to Orebic, the coastline is dotted with small settlements that are a delight to explore. The region is also famous for their shellfish and oysters , so you’ll definitely want to stop and sample some of the local delicacies.

My favorite place to go is Seosko Domacinstvo Ficovic – you can literally watch them lift the oysters from the sea and place them onto your plate. They also prepare freshly caught fish to perfection, and in between courses, you can even take a dip on their beautiful pebbled beach!

There are also tons of Croatian wineries scattered across the peninsula, so if you love wine or just want to sample the local flavors, I highly suggest stopping by one of these. I’ve stopped at Matusko, but have heard good things about Saints Hills and Grgic Winery as well. Alternatively, you could book a wine tasting tour from Dubrovnik so you don’t have to worry about driving after all that vino!

📍 How to get there: The best way to get to the Peljesac Peninsula is to drive. I’d recommend renting a car so that you can stop and explore at your own leisure.

I’m so surprised that more people don’t know about this place, but it’s definitely worth a day trip from Dubrovnik! Located just a mere 60 kilometers north of Dubrovnik is the remarkable town of Ston, home to the second longest defense walls in Europe .

The walls date back to the 14th and 15th centuries and were originally constructed to protect the town’s valuable salt pans, as well as the strategic port city of Dubrovnik. Originally, they stretched an impressive 7 kilometers in length and conected the towns of Ston and its smaller, sister town of Mali Ston.

Today, you can walk historic walls, which now extend for 5.5 kilometers. They are not as well maintained as the ones in Dubrovnik, but you do get some pretty epic views from the top.

Ston is also particularly famous for its oyster and mussel farms. The mineral-rich waters of the region provide the ideal environment for shellfish, making this the best place to try them in Croatia.

Two restaurants I can wholeheartedly recommend are Kapetanova Kuca and Bota Šare Restaurant !

📍 How to get there: The best way is to either drive or join an organized tour from Dubrovnik like this one that wraps oysters, mussels and wine tasting into one delicious day trip!

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Korcula on a Dubrovnik day trip!

Similar to Dubrovnik, the entire town is surrounded by a massive wall and it’s like stepping into a fairytale as you enter through the stone archway. It’s even earned the nickname “Little Dubrovnik”.

One day is more than enough to see the Old Town – you can stroll around the cobblestone streets, check out the small stone house that is thought to be the birth house of Marco Polo – you’ll have to look for it as it’s not really well advertised.

When I visited it was under renovation but has since been turned into a museum that you can go into and climb up to the tower for views of the city and sea.

While in Korcula, grab a bite to eat at Aterina , a colorful little Dalmatian tavern nestled in an old stone square. Around sunset, head up to the bar on top of the tower – Massimo Bar . It may be touristy but it’s a really cool spot to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sun go down while surrounded by the medieval-era walls of Korcula.

📍 How to get there: From Orebic at the very tip of the Peljesac Peninsula, you can take a short ferry ride over to Korcula (we’re talking 15 minutes max! – seriously I was so surprised at how quickly we arrived). The ferry takes you directly to Korcula Old Town, which is one of the most stunningly preserved medieval towns I’ve ever seen.

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9. Mljet National Park

This place might just be paradise on earth.

Okay, maybe not earth but it’s certainly paradise in Croatia . Seriously, this hidden gem of an island has not been overtaken by tourism. It’s remained perfectly content trapped in the 70s with its retro signage and underdeveloped infrastructure. It’s like a little time capsule that offers a much-needed escape from the throngs of tourists in Dubrovnik Old Town.

Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island, with the Mljet National Park carpeting nearly 5,400 hectares of land. The park itself is home to two saltwater lakes, sandy beaches, and mysterious natural caves. This island was made for an active vacation with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, paddle boarding, kayaking, and even diving.

Do not miss exploring Odysseus Cave while you’re on Mljet! This was by far the highlight of my visit to the island. I thought it would be overly crowded, but in mid-August, there were only maybe 10-15 other people there, so everyone got a chance to take in the beauty of the cave practically solo.

Inside, you’ll find a stunningly beautiful rocks in shades of purple and water the color of gatorade. There’s even a small section of land that you can climb onto out of the water, take a rest, and just soak up the incredible atmosphere. Be sure to enjoy a drink at MARS – a cool rustic bar built into the cliffs overlooking the sea just above Odysseus cave (you can’t miss it).

📍 How to get there: Take the ferry from Dubrovnik to Mljet or join an awesome speedboat tour like this one that will take you to Mljet National Park, Odysseus Cave, as well as the Elaphiti Islands to swim and explore the Blue Cave.

10. Elafiti Islands

The Elafiti Islands are a gorgeous series of six small islands (and many more islets) just a short boat ride away from Dubrovnik.

The main islands in the archipelago to stay on and visit are Šipan , Lopud , and Koločep . Out of these three inhabited islands, two of them are entirely car-free (Lopud and Koločep)! This makes visiting the Elafiti Islands extra special, as they are nothing like some of the famous beach towns known for their huge party scenes.

If you really want to get a feel for what life was like in this part of the world, you simply have to visit the Elafiti Islands. They are such a serene and tranquil place, no matter what season you visit in. While there, you’ll get the chance to uncover ancient monasteries, castle ruins, and tiny villages with impressive histories.

To get the most out of your visit, go for a boat tour . For one, because there is absolutely no better way to explore Croatia’s islands and coast than on a boat. And two, because you’ll have a dedicated guide who can take you to hidden spots, secluded beaches, and give you a much more authentic local experience.

📍 How to get there: You can take the passenger ferry line 807 from Gruz Harbor to the islands of Šipan, Koločep, and Lopud. You can also join a group tour to the Elafiti Islands, or if it’s in your budget (or you can split with a small group), I’d go for a private boat tour !

11. Trsteno Arboretum

Just a short journey north of Dubrovnik, you’ll find the enchanting Trsteno Arboretum, a lush haven of exotic plants, ancient trees, and artistic sculptures. Established in the late 15th century by the noble Gucetic-Gozze family, this Mediterranean botanical garden is the magical seaside village you didn’t know you needed to visit.

The gardens are made up of an ancient summer residence, aqueduct, water mill, and the photo-worthy fountain featuring a statue of the god of Neptune. Among the historic sculptures and stone works is a diverse range of plants from all over the world that had been brought over by ship captains from their voyages.

On the property is a pavilion perfectly perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The botanical gardens are only partially landscaped, so it feels romantically wild and naturally untamed, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

📍 How to get there: It’s about a 25-minute drive by car from Dubrovnik to Trsteno along the coast. Alternatively, you can take the local bus lines 12, 15, 21, 22 or 35, or Flixbus , which is about a 50-minute ride. For a more carefree experience packed with additional information and knowledge, you can take a guided tour to Trsteno which includes some other stops along the way.

12. Pasjaca Beach

This beach was crowned as one of the best beaches in Europe , and honestly it’s not hard to see why.

Its uniqueness lies in its dramatic location, set beneath majestic red cliffs, a stark contrast to the usual pebble and stone beaches found across Croatia. The beach itself is quite small, featuring a combination of sand and small pebbles, but the water here is immaculate.

Think crystal clear with a million shades of turquoise—it’s absolute heaven.

The walk down to the beach is partially made of concrete with sections of dirt and rock. It’s about 10-minutes downhill along the coast with gorgeous views of the sea down below. Just be sure to bring some water and snacks with you as there are no amenities on the beach.

Read this post on how to plan the perfect visit to Pasjaca Beach for more details.

📍 How to get there: You’ll need a car to reach Pasjaca Beach, or you can take an Uber , but you should organize your pick up time in advance because there is no cellphone service on the beach and the area around can be quite spotty with service. So it’s best to plan ahead.

13. Konavle Valley

Konavle is the southernmost part of the Dubrovnik Riviera that includes the tiny towns of Cavtat and Čilipi on the coast. However, if you venture inland toward the Sniježnica Mountain, you’ll uncover a dreamland of vineyards, farms, and age-old villages.

Just a short drive from Dubrovnik Old Town, you’ll discover a place that feels like a world of its own. With its peaceful rural charm and rich folklore traditions, it’s a real gem. While exploring the area, make sure to visit Sokol Grad Tower in the village of Dunave, right on the border of the former Ottoman Empire.

This small medieval fortress-city was built in the 13th century and houses a museum inside. It’s only 10 EUR to enter, and if you climb up to the top, you can take in the stunning scenery for miles around.

Not far from Sokol Grad is an authentic local restaurant , Konavoski Dvori . This place is a must-visit if you want to taste delicious Croatian food prepared with love. This is one of the top restaurants I ate at while visiting Dubrovnik–the food, the staff and the atmosphere were just phenomenal.

The restaurant is located in an old water mill right next to the Ljuta River that provides a refreshing natural mist (much needed on those hot days in Dubrovnik ). I recommend ordering the traditional peka with lamb or octopus, but make sure to call a day in advance to put your order and make a reservation because it takes a minimum of 4 hours to prepare this dish.

📍 How to get there: The best way to reach Konavle is to drive from Dubrovnik, this way you can take your time exploring or stop at places that look interesting along the way. If you’re into adventure, this horseback riding tour in Konavle looks like tons of fun, and so does this ATV Safari Tour .

When planning a trip to Croatia, it’s common to have a tough time deciding between Split and Dubrovnik . But if you’ve ultimately chosen Dubrovnik and still want to visit Split, I have good news for you! You can totally visit Split on a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Split is larger than Dubrovnik, but the Old Town is small enough to be seen in one full day. I recommend strolling around the center and taking a guided walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace . I have been living in Croatia since 2014 and visited Split every single year, but I didn’t take a tour until 2021 and let me tell you it makes a huge difference!

Our guide was amazing and taught us so much about the palace, the cellars below, the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and the town of Split. He knew all sorts of fascinating facts and stories about the city that made our visit so much more interesting. I was with a small group so we took a private tour , but there are also larger group tours for Split & Diocletian’s Palace available if you’re on a budget.

While in Split, don’t miss the opportunity to try the best gelato in town at Gelateria Emiliana . This tiny shop makes all of their own gelato and waffle cones in-house!

And if you have time, check out some of Split’s best beaches .

📍 How to get there: Because these two towns are 232 kilometers apart, it’s best to rent a car for this Dubrovnik to Split day trip.

15. Vjetrenica Cave

An hour from Dubrovnik, discover the hidden depths of Vjetrenica Cave, Bosnia & Herzegovina’s largest cavern . While the cave stretches over 7 kilometers, visitors can explore a fascinating 700-meter section, complete with well-lit, paved pathways.

You’ll be given a hard hat and flashlight for your visit, plus a guide that will take you through this geological gem. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot the rare salamander that lives in the caves during your visit!

The temperature inside the cave is around 11 degrees Celsius, so it’s a good idea to pack a sweater or light sweatshirt to wear inside.

Overall Vjetrenica Cave is a fun activity to do on a rainy day in Dubrovnik or a memorable day trip if you’re traveling with children.

📍 How to get there: Take a private tour of Vjetrenica Cave or rent a car to see the caves on a day trip from Dubrovnik.

16. Biokovo Skywalk + Makarska

The Makarska Riviera is one of Croatia’s most beloved beach destinations, attracting countless European travelers with its stunning coastal beauty.

This 60 kilometer strip stretches between the Adriatic Sea and the towering mountain range of Biokovo. It is absolutely picture perfect and worthy of a day trip from Dubrovnik.

Several towns dot the coast, all offering a variety of beautiful beaches, pebbled shores, pine trees, and peaceful bays. Stroll along the coast and visit Makarska Riviera ‘s most famous landmark (pictured above), go for a dip in the sparkling waters, or head up to the mountains to walk along the Biokovo Skywalk!

Biokovo Skywalk just opened a few years ago and is a glass skywalk that hangs over the edge of a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea and islands in the distance.

📍 How to get there: Due to the distance between locations, the best way to visit Biokovo Skywalk and Makarska is with your own rental car .

17. Mejdugorje

Situated in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Medjugorje is a very famous religious site and one of the world’s largest Catholic pilgrimage destinations. This tranquil town came into the spotlight in 1981 following reports of six teenagers witnessing apparitions of Mother Mary.

Whether you’re drawn by its spiritual history or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Medjugorje makes for a truly unique day trip from Dubrovnik.

📍 How to get there: Join a small group tour that combines a visit to Medjugorje with other popular locations in Bosnia & Herzegovina like Mostar and Pocitelj.

FAQs About Excursions From Dubrovnik

Can you do day trips from dubrovnik.

Yes, Dubrovnik is an excellent base for various day trips, both within Croatia and to neighboring countries.

Where to go outside Dubrovnik?

There are tons of places to go outside of Dubrovnik. Popular destinations outside Dubrovnik include the Elafiti Islands, the Pelješac Peninsula, the Makarska Riviera, Medjugorje, Mostar, and Kotor Bay in Montenegro.

Can you do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro?

Absolutely! In fact, a Dubrovnik to Montenegro day trip is one of the most popular excursions from Dubrovnik.

Can you do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia?

Yes, it’s possible to do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia & Herzegovina, with popular destinations being Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls.

Can you do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Hvar?

Yes, you can do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Hvar, but I personally wouldn’t recommend it. The ferry ride to Hvar is almost 4 hours, so you’d be spending the majority of your day on the ferry to and from the island. Plus, Hvar deserves at least a few days to really explore and experience all the incredible things it has to offer.

Final Thoughts on Dubrovnik Day Trips

That wraps up our list of the best places to visit near Dubrovnik!

Each of these recommendations comes from a blend of my own adventures and insider tips from local friends in Dubrovnik, ensuring you’re getting the real deal when it comes to exploring the area.

Whether you’re drawn to the serene waters of the Elafiti Islands, the historic streets of Mostar, or the breathtaking views from Biokovo Skywalk, I hope this list inspires you to go beyond Dubrovnik’s walls.

Before you go, make sure you find the perfect place to stay with these charming boutique hotels in Dubrovnik .

You Might Also Like:

• The Ultimate Guide to Dubrovnik’s Cable Car
• Are Dubrovnik Walls Worth It? YES & Here are 5 Reasons Why
• Top 5 Dubrovnik Boat Tours You Can’t Miss
• 5 BEST Sunset Cruises in Dubrovnik
• Parking in Dubrovnik: The Best Places to Park around Old Town
• Is Dubrovnik Safe to Visit?
• 15 Reasons to Visit Dubrovnik
• 15 Boutique Hotels in Dubrovnik You’ll Love
• Drive Split to Dubrovnik: Local’s Guide
• Is Split or Dubrovnik Better? Which City to Choose
• 15 Things to Do in Dubrovnik When it Rains
• Is Dubrovnik Expensive? How Much Money You Need to Visit
• Are There Sharks in Dubrovnik? (Local’s Guide)
• 31 Hidden Gems in Croatia You Can’t Miss
• What to Pack for Croatia – Based on 25 Years of Experience

Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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30 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

• March 26, 2024
• Croatia , Europe

Dubrovnik isn’t just about ancient walls and stunning vistas; it’s also the perfect gateway for day trip adventures. You can easily explore the South Dalmatian Coast, nearby islands, and even neighboring countries like Montenegro and Bosnia from Dubrovnik.

As someone who’s practically a local in Croatia, I’ve had my fair share of exploring Dubrovnik and its surroundings. In this article, I’ll share with you some of the most amazing day trip destinations from Dubrovnik!

Own transport

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While I firmly believe that some spots on the list below deserve more than just a day, squeezing in a quick trip is still better than missing out entirely. But if you do have a day or two to spare, I’ll give you more tips on how to use the time below.

And so you don’t waste your precious time, I also suggest how to combine some of the destinations for the best bang for your buck!

In a hurry? Book your Dubrovnik Day Trips now!

These are the best day tours from Dubrovnik that you shouldn’t miss out on!

Elafiti island cruise Mljet National Park This Elaphiti Islands & Blue Cave tour Peljasac Oysters and Wine Tour Budva, Perast & Kotor Montenegro tour Mostar & Kravice waterfalls tour

Best way to go on day trips from Dubrovnik

Having your own means of transport like a rental car will give you the most flexibility and freedom and this is how I personally prefer to travel. You can find the best  deals on rental cars here.

However, coordinating schedules (you’ll still need to catch a ferry to the islands here and there) and navigating foreign roads can be a hassle so you might benefit from an organized tour.

Organized tours provide a stress-free option of exploring. A local guide will do all the planning and problem-solving for you as well as tell you about the culture, and history, and give you insider tips. Organized trips are also fantastic for meeting other travelers and highly recommended if you’re traveling solo.

I’ve researched and  selected the best tours for each day trip  below so you can discover the beauty of Croatia and its neighboring countries with ease. I’d also recommend that you opt for a private or semi-private tour when possible to avoid the big busses and crowds.

Public transport is by far the cheapest way of getting around and while public transport is available for many day trip destinations, coordinating schedules can be a bit of a challenge. On top of that, public transport can’t get you everywhere and you might still need to combine it with cabs which can drive up the costs considerably.

Best day trips from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is located in the Southern part of Dalmatia and is the perfect getaway for some incredible day trips along the Croatian coast. Below I list the most notable towns and destinations nearby, as well as a few options, like Split and Omis, a little bit further away (but certainly with the drive!)

Drive: 25min Best for: Nature lovers, GOT fans

The Trsteno Arboretum is located just outside of Dubrovnik and is easily reached with this private tour. It dates back to the 15th century and surrounds a gorgeous villa originally commissioned by the Gozze family as their summer residence.

These picturesque gardens are filled with ancient trees, like the two 500-year old two Oriental Plane trees. The centerpiece of the arboretum is the exquisite fountain, built in 1736, featuring a carved statue of Neptune standing proudly with his trident.

Trsteno Arboretum has recently gained popularity for being a filming location for Game of Thrones where it portrays the palace gardens of the Red Keep. If you’re a GOT fan, make sure to book this GOT driving tour that takes you to the arboretum.

Book your Tristeno Arboretum and Mt Srd tour Tristeno Arboretum GOT driving tour

Drive: 55min Best for: history enthusiasts, nature lovers, foodies, GOT fans

Ston is a historic town located on the Peljesac Peninsula known for its impressive defensive walls, often referred to as the “European Wall of China.” Built in the 14th century, these walls were crucial for the defense of the Republic of Ragusa, and more recently they also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Apart from its historical significance, Ston offers stunning coastal views and is famous for its fresh oysters harvested in nearby Mali Ston Bay. A visit to Ston provides an opportunity to explore ancient fortifications, enjoy local seafood, and soak in the town’s tranquil atmosphere.

I highly recommend this Oysters and Wine Tour which not only takes you to Ston and the Ston walls, but also includes a wine tasting and oysters tasting. Or combine your visit to the Peljesac Peninsula with a visit to the island of Korcula on this combo tour.

Oysters and Wine Tour Ston and Korcula tour

Drive: 15min Best for: ghostbusters, history, GOT fans

Kupari is a coastal resort village located near Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is famous for its abandoned hotels, which were once luxurious resorts frequented by tourists and the Yugoslav military. These hotels were heavily damaged during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s and have remained abandoned since then.

The eerie remains are a popular stop for those driving south, but will only take a few minutes to explore. Some scenes of the GOT series have also been filmed here.

Drive: 15min Best for: a quiet escape

Mlini is a charming coastal village near Dubrovnik known for scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. It boasts charming stone houses, quaint streets, and waterfront eateries. This is a great destination if you’re looking to get away form the crowds and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic.

Drive: 25min Best for: a quiet escape

Cavtat is another charming seaside town near Dubrovnik boasting natural beauty, historic landmarks, and a scenic waterfront. With cobblestone streets, historic sites like the Racic Mausoleum, and beautiful beaches, it is the perfect destination to get away from the Dubrovnik crowds.

Drive: 35min Best for: beach time

Tucked away at the foot of steep cliffs, Pasjaca beach offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sands. The beach is accessible via a narrow and steep path carved into the cliffside.

Pasjaca Beach is incredibly scenic and a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

Drive: 2h 15min Best for: Beach time

Stretching from Brela all the way to Gradac, the stunning Makarska Riviera boasts about 60 kilometers of secluded bays, clear blue waters, and endless pine forests. What’s more, the impressive Biokovo mountains overlook it all, adding an extra layer of awe to this already stunning destination.

With countless beach opportunities along the scenic coastline, Makarska Riviera is the perfect summer getaway. Punta Rata beach and Nugal beach are absolute must-sees.

Keep in mind that many of the beaches in Makarska are FKK and do not have any amenities or bars, so come prepared with everything you might need.

Makarska Riviera is so easy to reach by public transport that there aren’t many organized tours to choose from. But once you get to Makarska by public transport or private transfer, there are a ton of fun tours you can join.

Book your adventure in Makarska Beginner Diving in Brela Scooter rental in Makarska

Drive: 2h 15min Best for: Views, nature lovers

Biokovo Nature Park is a stunning mountain range situated within the Dinaric Alps. Biokovo is known for its unique geographical features, with a pronounced karst relief that includes sinkholes, ravines, and stone holes. The mountain may seem barren at first glance, but the park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. The Kotišina Botanical Garden in the park, offers a chance to see the diverse plant life up close.

The park also boasts several lookout points and a range of hiking trails, all of which offer incredible vistas of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding coastline. The highest peak of Biokovo is Sveti Jure, towering at 1762 meters above sea level.

For many, the highlight of Biokovo is its skywalk at an elevation of 1228 m. This glass platform offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape all over the Makarska Riviera, nearby islands, and you can even see Italy on a clear day.

The Biokovo Natural Park can be easily combined with a trip to the Makarska Riviera for a day of beach and mountain fun.

Book your Biokovo experience: Biokovo Skywalk from Makarska Biokovo Nature Park Hiking tour from Makarska

Drive: 2h 35min Best for: history enthusiasts, nature lovers, adventurers

Omis is where the beautiful Cetina river meets the sea. Cetina carved its path through a scenic rocky canyon and Omis was built at the mouth of the river with a stunning fort perched on top of the cliffside.

Enjoy the superb fish restaurants and vibrant cafes in Omis and explore the fort, history and architecture.

But Omis is best combined with an adventurous tour up the Cetina Canyon, the real reason why you should visit this town.

If all you want to do is visit Omis town there’s really no real reason to do it as part of a guided tour, just hop on a bus. However, the fun part is what’s going on behind Omis and on the river that flows through.

Book your Omis adventure: ZipLine over Cetina Canyon Half-Day Rafting on Cetina River with Cliff Jumping Canyoning on Cetina River ATV Off Road Tour Via Ferrata Omis

Drive: 3h Best for: history, culture, city life, party

Split is Croatia’s second largest city just a few hours north from Dubrovnik and one of my favorite towns in Croatia. With its intriguing blend of Roman heritage and modern charm, Split Old Town offers a unique experience, and it by no means feels big!

Explore the ancient streets of the Old Town, wander through the impressive UNESCO protected Diocletian’s Palace, and soak up the vibrant ambiance along the lively waterfront promenade.

If you have a chance, I’d recommend you spend more time in Split. Take advantage of this transfer with a stopover in Mostar and spend the night in Split before continuing your travels.

Split day trip from Dubrovnik Split transfer with a stopover in Mostar

Best boat trips from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is ideally located for exploring the breathtaking islands dotting the Adriatic Sea. In the list below, I’ve curated the top islands for your Dubrovnik day trip. While most are reachable by ferry, a guided tour often provides a better experience.

If all you’re after is a few hours at sea, then consider this sunset cruise on a traditional Karaka boat.

Drive: 15min ferry Best for: nature lovers, GOT fans

Lokrum Island is a short ferry ride away from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It is a nature reserve with lush greenery, peacocks, botanical gardens, and rocky beaches, as well as some GOT filming locations. Lokrum also has a medieval monastery, a small saltwater lake, and hiking trails.

You can explore it on your own accord, do  this GOT tour  which includes filming locations in town as well as on the island or  join this kayaking tour  and paddle around Dubrovnik and onto Lokrum island.

Book this Lokrum Island GOT tour Book this Lokrum island kayaking tour

Drive: 45min ferry Best for: nature lovers

The Elafiti Islands are a small archipelago consisting of several islands, including Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, located northwest of Dubrovnik. The archipelago offers stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and clear waters.

You can hop between the islands, explore historical sites, enjoy swimming and sunbathing on picturesque beaches, and indulge in local cuisine at waterfront restaurants.

The islands provide a peaceful and relaxing escape from the bustling city, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene island atmosphere.  Join this island-hopping cruise  for the best experience.

Book this Elafiti island cruise

Drive: 1.5h ferry Best for: nature lovers

Mljet is a larger island located a bit further from Dubrovnik, but it’s well worth the trip. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including two saltwater lakes —Maljevac and Veliko Jezero. And the best part? One of the lakes has its own little island… talk about inception!

On  this fantastic boat tour  you can hike or rent bikes to explore the National Park, visit the Odysseus Cave, stop at some beautiful beaches and visit Lopud and Kolocep Islands.

Book your Mljet island boat tour

Drive: 2h ferry one way Best for: Beach time, culture, history,

Korčula is a picturesque Croatian island known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Famous as the alleged home of Marco Polo, the island features charming medieval towns, Venetian architecture, and vineyards local wines.

Explore the narrow cobblestone streets of Korčula Town, visit historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Cathedral, and relax on pristine beaches along the coastline.

You can hop on the passenger ferry from Dubrovnik or even better, join this Ston and Korcula tour for the best experience.

Ston and Korcula tour

Drive: 3.5h ferry ride one way Best for: Beach time, culture, history, party goers

If you’re looking for the ultimate summer destination, Hvar is the place to be. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant bar scene, rich history, and exquisite cuisine, Hvar is an absolute must-visit.

Hvar town, is the largest town on the island, where you can explore Venetian architecture, charming cobblestone streets, fantastic restaurants, and hidden corners. Although Hvar is known for its lively party scene, there is so much more to discover beyond its wild nightlife, from beautiful beaches, and rich history to delicious food.

Hvar can be reached by passenger ferry from Dubrovnik. Once there, make sure to join this walking tour of Hvar Town and hop over to Pakleni Islands .

If you have the time, I recommend you stay more than just the day. It’s such a stunning island!

Read next: Hvar Island Itinerary Where to stay on Hvar Pakleni Islands guide

Drive: 2-3hours by speedboat one way Best for: nature lovers, photographers

The Blue Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia, and for a good reason! This sea cave is a wonder of nature that is illuminated by blue light when the sun shines through a hole in the ceiling and reflects off the water.

Located on the east side of the island of Biševo, just off the coast of Vis island, the Blue Cave can only be visited as part of a tour.

Personally, I wouldn’t want to do the trip all the way from Dubrovnik as the journey takes over two hours and the speedboat ride is like sitting inside a washing machine. However, if you’re in Dubrovnik and short on time, and really (really) want to see the cave, then there are plenty of people willing to take your money.

If you choose to do the long trip from Dubrovnik to the Blue Cave why not make a day out of it and visit the stunning Elaphiti Islands as well?  This Elaphiti Islands & Blue Cave tour  offers a comfortable boat, lunch, and unlimited drinks for a very affordable price, and you get to explore multiple islands and bays where you can snorkel or swim.

Book your Blue Cave tour from Dubrovnik: This Elaphiti Islands & Blue Cave tour Half-day Blue Cave and Snorkeling Tour

Read next:  Your guide to visiting the Blue Cave

Drive: 3.5h ferry ride one way Best for: nature lovers, quiet escape, diving

Lastovo is a stunning Croatian island designated as a nature park. It boasts lush forests, crystal-clear waters, colorful corals and secluded beaches. This is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and divers.

On Lastovo you can explore charming fishing villages, discover ancient architecture, explore the underworld or just slow down and breath in some fresh air.

Best day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Dubrovnik is an ideal base for day trips to Montenegro, including the Bay of Kotor and Lovćen National Park, as well as cultural treasures like the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor and the medieval town of Budva. With Dubrovnik as your starting point, you can easily explore the highlights of Montenegro in a single day trip.

Drive: 2h Best for: nature lovers, history enthusiasts

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, is often referred to as Europe’s southernmost fjord, with its dramatic mountain peaks cascading into the sparkling blue sea. Hemmed in by commanding cliffs, the bay offers an enchanting mix of picturesque coastal towns, rich history, and stunning natural beauty.

Join this Montenegro tour  and explore the quaint villages of Perast and UNESCO-listed Kotor, enjoy scenic drives with stunning Adriatic Sea views and hop on a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks island.

Book your Montenegro tour to Kotor and Perast

Drive: 1h 30min Best for: nature lovers, history enthusiasts

Perast, is a charming town along the stunning Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. It is known for its picturesque waterfront, Baroque architecture, and the iconic islets of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.

Perast is the ideal day trip from Dubrovnik if you’d like to explore the town’s rich history, admire its beautiful churches and palaces, and take boat trips to the nearby islands. Perast is best combined with a visit to the nearby city of Kotor on this Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik.

Drive: 2h 20min Best for: Beach time, culture, party goers

Budva is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Old Town, and vibrant nightlife. Here you can explore the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy water sports activities along the coast.

Budva is best combined with visits to Kotor and Perast and I recommend you book this Montenegro tour to see all three in one jam-packed day.

Budva, Perast & Kotor Montenegro tour

Best day trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia

Dubrovnik is located just a stone’s throw away from Bosnia making it the ideal base to explore this wonderful country filled with rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The most popular day trip destinations include iconic sites like Mostar, Sarajevo, and the Kravica Waterfalls.

Drive: 2h 15min Best for: history enthusiasts, culture

Mostar, located just across the border in Bosnia & Herzegovina, has a fascinating Ottoman history. It boasts charming old Turkish homes, elegant minarets, and cobbled streets.

During the turbulent Yugoslav wars of the 1990s, Mostar suffered significant damage, including the destruction of its iconic Stari Most Bridge which has been faithfully reconstructed, mirroring the original that met its demise.

On one side of the Neretva river, you can explore churches, while mosques await on the other side. Don’t miss the Old Bazaar, where you can enjoy a strong Turkish-style coffee and savor a plate of cevapcici.

There are quite a few tour options from Dubrovnik to Mostar but I highly recommend this tour which also stops at the gorgeous Kravice waterfalls.

Book your Mostar & Kravice waterfalls tour

Drive: 2h Best for: nature lovers, refreshing escape

Kravice Waterfalls, situated just a bit North from Dubrovnik in Bosnia and Herzegovina, are a series of cascades on the Trebižat River. With heights of up to 25 meters, they offer a spectacular sight amidst lush green surroundings.

The falls are a refreshing escape from the city and the perfect spot to swim in the cool waters or relax by the banks. Pair your visit with a day trip to the historic city of Mostar, just a short drive away, and make the most of your journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Balkans.

Drive: 4h Best for: history enthusiasts, culture, foodies

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located northeast of Dubrovnik. It is famous for its rich history, cultural diversity, and striking architecture.

Sarajevo was the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which triggered World War I. The city’s Old Town features Ottoman-era bazaars and mosques, while the Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum commemorates the siege of the city during the Bosnian War.

Sarajevo’s culinary scene offers a fusion of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts wanting to try traditional burek pastries and cevapi.

This Bosnia day trip from Dubrovnik includes a stop in Mostar before your tour of Sarajevo. However, if you have the time I’d recommend you spend the night in Sarajevo and opt for this transfer from Dubrovnik (available both ways) with several stops along the way, including Kravice and Mostar.

Sarajevo and Mostar day trip Transfer to Sarajevo with Kravice, Mostar and more

Best day tours for Foodies

Discover the best culinary day trips and tours from Dubrovnik, from oyster tastings in Ston to wine tours in Konavle Valley, and hop over the border for some very special delicacies. Experience the rich flavors of the region and indulge in local delicacies on these food-focused adventures.

Duration: 5h Best for: Home chefs

Dive into the culinary delights of Dalmatia with a twist by joining this cooking class in the Dubrovnik countryside. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and learn the secrets of traditional dishes like peka and ražnjići from a local chef.

After mastering the recipes savor the fruits of your labor with a delicious sit-down meal. It’s the perfect recipe for a fun-filled and tasty adventure!

Book your Dalmatian cooking class

Drive: 40min Best for: Wine connoisseur

Konavle Valley is located southeast of Dubrovnik, extending inland from toward the border with Montenegro. It is easily reachable from Dubrovnik by road, offering a picturesque countryside landscape.

Explore the charm of Konavle Valley and savor Chardonnay, Zinfandel Rosé, and Cabernet Sauvignon on this half-day wine tasting tour. Pair your tasting with homemade prosciutto, cheese, and olives, and conclude with a visit to the charming small town of Cavtat.

Book this wine tasting tour in Konavle Valley

Drive: 1h 30min Best for: Wine connoisseur, Seafood affictionados

Pelješac Peninsula is located northwest of Dubrovnik, extending into the Adriatic Sea. It is easily accessible from Dubrovnik by road, offering stunning coastal views along the way. This peninsula is known for breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and vineyards as far as the eye can see.

On Pelješac, you’ll dive into the bold world of Plavac Mali reds, boasting flavors of dark berries and spices.

For the ultimate experience, join this wine tasting tour from Dubrovnik which includes a visit to the historic town of Ston . Or if you’re a seafood lover, opt for this Oysters and Wine Tour . As already mentioned above, Ston is not only famous for its walls but also for the fresh oysters.

Book this wine tasting tour in Peljesac Oysters and Wine Tour

Drive: 1h Best for: Seafood affictionados

Located just north of Dubrovnik, Neum is a picturesque town nestled along the short coast belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Neum is one of the rare few places where it’s legal to harvest and sell date mussels. The date mussel, prized since ancient times, remains a delicacy in Mediterranean cuisine.

In Neum you can legally order date mussels at local restaurants, which attracts food enthusiasts eager to sample this local delicacy. But it’s essential you consider the ethical and environmental implications of consuming these shellfish.

Despite date mussel harvesting being banned in most of Europe, weak enforcement and awareness leads to ongoing consumption of date mussels, harming marine ecosystems and marine life.

Dubrovnik serves as the perfect base for day trips to Game of Thrones filming sites, with many iconic locations, like the Dubrovnik city walls at your doorstep and others just a short distance away.

After you’ve explored King’s Landing right in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, where scenes like the Battle of Blackwater Bay and Cersei’s Walk of Shame were filmed, it’s time to venture a bit further out.

Nearby locations like Lokrum Island and Trsteno Arboretum offer further glimpses into the fantastical world of Westeros. Ston also served as a filming locations for the series, but for the true GOT fans there’s more!

For fans willing to venture a bit further, Split is a must-visit destination, home to Diocletian’s Palace and Klis Fortress, both featured in the series. And don’t forget about Kastelac and Trogir , just a little beyond Split, where more Game of Thrones scenes were shot.

When looking for accommodation in Dubrovnik keep in mind that the old town is closed to traffic and parking is a serious issue anywhere within walking distance of town. Parking fees can add up to a considerable amount.

Hotel Excelsior

WATERFRONT LUXURY

5-star luxury just a 5-minute stroll from the old town. Peaceful, spacious and the service is second to none.

CHECK PRICES

Bota Palace

CHARM & HISTORY

Located in a historic building within the city walls this hotel is full of charm combining historic architecture with modern amenities.

Check prices

Rixos Premium Dubrovnik

MODERN & OPPULENT

Just a 15 minute walk from town this lux hotel features a private beach, opulent design, exquisite dining options and a fantastic spa.

By Air : Dubrovnik is serviced by Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) which is well-connected with flights from major cities worldwide. Book a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation for a seamless start to your Dubrovnik adventure.

By Sea : Dubrovnik can be reached by ferry from nearby islands. This is a scenic and convenient way to experience the stunning coastline.

By Car : Driving to Dubrovnik offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, but be prepared for potential border crossings—consider taking the bridge to Pelješac or planning your route to avoid passing through Bosnia. Keep in mind the limited parking availability in the city center, so it’s wise to plan ahead or book accommodations with parking options.

By Bus : Dubrovnik is easy to reach by bus, with direct connections from major Croatian cities like Split and Zagreb. The bus station is conveniently located near the Old Town, making it easy to start your Dubrovnik adventure right away.

Getting around Dubrovnik is easy. The Old Town is a pedestrian zone and where everything is within walking distance. If you’re staying outside the Old Town there are taxis and public buses that will get you to the city walls. For a different view, consider boat or kayak trips along the coast to experience the city from the water.

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is in April and October, when the weather is warm but the tourist crowds are thinner and you can score some good deals.

The high season in Dubrovnik runs from May to September and this is when things really heat up—literally! If visiting in the summer months be ready for crowds, higher prices, and the scorching sun.

The winter in Dubrovnik is mild and pleasant. While you won’t be able to enjoy the beach as much, you’ll be able to score some good deals. The city is still lively, but without the insane crowds it sees in high season.

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).

Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik itinerary One day in Dubrovnik Dubrovnik City Walls guide Where to stay in Dubrovnik Best hotels in Dubrovnik Best things to do in Dubrovnik Best Islands near Dubrovnik

Croatia itineraries: 2 weeks in Dalmatia itinerary 1 week Dalmatia Itinerary

Your guide to the Blue Cave

Split: Split itinerary Your guide to Split Old Town Where to stay in Split Best hotels in Split Day trips from Split

Hvar: Hvar itinerary Hvar island guide Things to do in Hvar town Pakleni Islands guide Where to stay on Hvar Best hotels on Hvar

Reliable travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

Now we always get insured before we leave and  Travel Insurance Masters  is our go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

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Croatia , Europe , Travel

10 unmissable day trips from dubrovnik, croatia.

During our trip to Croatia , we spent a few days taking some Dubrovnik day trips to discover this beautiful area a little further. If you have a few extra days in Dubrovnik, I highly recommend sticking around and exploring.

There were lots of things that surprised me about Croatia , and one happy surprise was that there is so much more to do than just the regular tourist destinations like Dubrovnik, Split, and Plitvice.

You should definitely spend time in Dubrovnik, it is incredible. It’s is a gorgeous medieval walled port city full of so many ancient architecture and walls, historical sites, and gorgeous ocean views. It’s known as a filming location for Game of Thrones , Star Wars , James Bond , and more.

The entire old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s absolutely worth spending some time here. But if you’re using it as your home base and want to see a little more of Croatia, here are some of my top suggestions for day trips from Dubrovnik.

Here's a Short Cut

1. Blue Cave on Koločep Island

2. mostar, bosnia & herzegovina, 3. kotor, montenegro, 4. lokrum island, 7. elafiti islands, 8. korkula island, 10. kravica waterfalls, bonus: trsteno arboretum.

The Blue Cave on Koločep Island is a beautiful spot near Dubrovnik. It’s way closer than the other, more famous, Blue Cave on the island of Biševo, making it a quick and easy day trip. You can take a short boat ride from Dubrovnik to Koločep and then swim or kayak into the cave. You can’t swim in the other Blue Cave. The water inside looks all glowy and blue, especially when the sun shines in. I recommend taking a half day private tour to the cave. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Dubrovnik.

• Distance from Dubrovnik:
• Guided Day Tour Option: Private Boat Half Day Tour

Fancy a trip to another country? Mostar is one of the most popular Dubrovnik day trips. Just a few hours’ drive from Dubrovnik lies the picturesque town of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. A blend of Ottoman, Western European, and Mediterranean styles. Mostar provides a unique cultural experience in the diverse Balkan region.

You can check out the Old Bridge , a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bazaar Kujundžiluk , a buzzing ancient marketplace where you can shop and eat, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for incredible views of the city, Biscevic House to experience a real 17th century Ottoman home, and see the War Photo Exhibition where you can see a somber exhibit offers insights into the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s.

You can take a guided day trip to Mostar if you’re not renting a car in Croatia. It’s an easy way to explore the city.

• Distance from Dubrovnik: 2.5-3 hour drive
• Guided Day Tour Option: Mostar & Kravica Waterfall Tour
• Currency used : Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). Bring some cash, a lot of places don’t accept cards here.
• Border Crossing: There is a border crossing station to enter and exit Bosnia & Herzegovina. During peak season, plan extra time to get through the border.

Want to visit even another country while you’re in Dubrovnik? Kotor, Montenegro is just a few hours drive south and worth visiting. This walled city is a another UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the Venetian times. You can visit the Old Town in the heart of Kotor, climb the steps of the Fortifications and San Giovanni Fortress for great views of Kotor Bay, check out the Maritime Museum to learn about Kotor’s long naval history, visit St. Tryphon’s Cathedral that dates back to the 12th century, visit Kotor Bay for a swim or a boat tour.

• Guided Day Tour Option: Montenegro Day Trip
• Currency used : Montenegro uses the Euro, just like Croatia
• Border Crossing: You will need to go through a border crossing, so be sure to bring your passport and some patience if you’re visiting during peak season. Montenegro is not part of the European Union.

Lokrum Island is a beautiful and fun tiny island just a short boat ride away from Dubrovnik. When there, you can see friendly peacocks and rabbits, swim in a small salt lake called the Dead Sea in the summer season, walk in a global garden, and enjoy views from an old fort. Remember to check boat times and maybe bring some snacks!

• Distance from Dubrovnik : About 15 minutes by boat.

One of the quickest day trips from Dubrovnik, Cavtat is a peaceful coastal town. It’s great for a day trip if you want to experience calm beaches, a scenic waterfront, charming streets, and historical sights, all without the big crowds of Dubrovnik.

• Distance from Dubrovnik : About 30 minutes by car
• Guided Day Tour Options:
• Wine Tasting Catvat Tour : https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513/from-dubrovnik-half-day-wine-tasting-and-cavtat-city-tour-t426023/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=DubrovnikDayTrips
• Catvat Jeep Safari : https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513/konavle-off-road-jeep-safari-tour-t104222/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=DubrovnikDayTrips

Ston is a unique little town not too far from Dubrovnik. Famous for its super long stone walls (like a mini Great Wall of China), it’s a cool place to visit. Besides the walls, Ston is known for delicious oysters and mussels, so it’s a treat for seafood lovers!

• Distance from Dubrovnik : About 1 hour by car
• Guided Day Tour Options: https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513/dubrovnik-county-city-walls-in-old-town-ston-sokol-fort-t496234/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=DubrovnikDayTrips

The Elafiti Islands are a group of islands near Dubrovnik, Croatia. Perfect for a day trip, these islands offer beautiful beaches, clear waters, and peaceful nature spots. You can hop between the main islands – Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan – and enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and exploring little villages. You can check ferry times here.

• Distance from Dubrovnik: About a 30 minute boat ride
• Guided Day Tour Option: Elafiti Islands trip with lunch

Korčula Island, near Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a gem with its charming old town, sandy beaches, and thick forests. Many people believe it’s the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. When visiting for a day, you can stroll through the historic streets, relax on the beaches, and try some tasty local food. Be sure to check out Korčula town.

• Distance from Dubrovnik : 2-3 hours by boat
• Guided Day Tour Option: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=631121&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.viator.com%2Ftours%2FDubrovnik%2FFull-Day-Trip-to-Korcula-Island-from-Dubrovnik%2Fd904-276759P11

Konavle is a beautiful region just a short drive from Dubrovnik. Nestled between mountains and the sea, it’s a place where you can experience traditional Croatian countryside life. With green fields, old mills, and cozy restaurants, it’s a refreshing break from busy city vibes.

• Guided Day Tour Option: https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513/konavle-valley-private-half-day-tour-with-wine-tasting-t65900/?partner_id=67O18VU&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=DubrovnikDayTrips

Kravica Waterfalls are a stunning natural wonder, a bit of a drive from Dubrovnik, Croatia. Discover this big, natural water park where water splashes down from tall rocks into a cool, refreshing pool. It’s a fantastic spot to swim, relax, and take awesome photos, especially during hot summer days. It’s a good alternative to Plitvice Lakes National Park if you actually want to swim (no swimming allowed in Plitvice).

• Distance from Dubrovnik : About 3 hours by car
• Guided Day Tour Option: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=631121&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.viator.com%2Ftours%2FDubrovnik%2FKravice-Waterfalls-Mostar-and-Pocitelj-Day-Tour-from-Dubrovnik-With-All-Entrance-Fees-Included%2Fd904-5562P163

Trsteno Arboretum is like a big, beautiful outdoor plant museum near Dubrovnik. It’s full of trees and plants from all over the world, set in gardens that look out over the sea. If you’re a “Game of Thrones” fan, you might recognize some spots because parts of the show were filmed here!

You’ve got plenty of options when it comes to day trips from Dubrovnik. The hard part will be narrowing them down and choosing just a few.

Wanderlust Crew

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12 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik – Where to Get the Break from the Crowds

Dubrovnik is the most popular destination in Croatia , and it is a truly fascinating city to visit. However, during its prime tourist season, it can be very crowded which makes it hard to enjoy all its beauty. Taking a day trip from Dubrovnik is a wonderful opportunity to explore other parts of the region as well as get away from the crowds.

Dubrovnik is in the southern corner of Croatia, close to Bosnia, Montenegro and many Croatian Islands which makes it an excellent location for day trips from Dubrovnik. In this post, we explore less traveled places around Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. 

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

1. pelješac peninsula, croatia, 2. arboretum trsteno, croatia, 3. korčula island, croatia, 4. mljet national park, croatia, 5. kravica waterfalls, bosnia and hercegovina, 6. vjetrenica cave, bosnia and herzegovina, 7. mostar, bosnia and hercegovina, 8. trebinje, bosnia and hercegovina, 9. kotor, montenegro, 10. lokrum island, croatia, 11. elaphiti islands, croatia, 12. skywalk biokovo, croatia, tips for the best day trips from dubrovnik experience.

Pelješac only 34 miles north of Dubrovnik, is still a somewhat hidden gem of Croatia. With a new bridge that was built in 2023, connecting the north mainland with the peninsula and bypassing having to go through Bosnia, the hidden gem is slowly becoming one of the main tourist attractions.

Some of Croatia’s best wine is produced in Pelješac. Plavac Mali (Little Blue), ancestral Zinfandel, is the main grape that grows in Pelješac and Dingač region, the most prestigious wine-making region, on the South side of the peninsula.

Recently one of the big attractions that brings a lot of tourists from Dubrovnik is Edivo Winery. The first underwater winery where bottles and clay jugs are stored underwater is Mali Ston Bay. Here you can enjoy a traditional winery tour and tasting or join the divers on a tour to a submerged sunken ship and the wine stored around it.

Some other more popular wineries from the peninsula are Grgich Winery, Korta Katarina and Matuško Winery. But the beauty of this peninsula is that in recent years a lot of smaller family-owned wineries are popping up – Winery Bezek being a perfect example of that.

Outside of amazing wine, the peninsula is known for pristine pebble beaches, kite surfing and delicious oysters, mussels, squid, and fresh fish.

Orebić is the biggest town on the peninsula with all the amenities and easy ferry access to surrounding islands. Viganj is a great town to visit if you are interested in kite surfing, located at the vortex of the wind tunnel halfway along the Korčula channel. Drace and Janjina are two sleepy little villages next to each other. Drace has direct access to water and is where Edivo Winery is located, and just a few minutes north is Janjina with endless vineyards and olive trees. Divan, Duba and on the other side of the peninsula Željana are great locations for pristine white pebble beaches and crystal-clear water.

Visit to Trstenik, where the Grgich Winery is located, is a must with a stop at Vitaceae where they serve freshly caught seafood and local wines.

MY SUGGESTED DAY ITINERARY IN PELJESAC

Drive to Ston, walk the Wall of Ston – 3.5 miles, it takes 40 – 50 minutes to walk.

If you like raw oysters, this is the place to try them. Make sure they are fresh.

Make your way to Putnikovići and visit the Winery Museum to learn about how grapes used to be harvested and the significance of donkeys on the peninsula.

After the museum, if the weather permits stop in Željana for a quick swim and some sunbathing on the beach. Here you can find a few restaurants for lunch or a quick snack.

The next stop is Potomje, where Matusko Winery is at. One of the first and most successful winemakers in Pelješac. If there is no availability for a wine tour/tasting, you can purchase a glass of wine and tour the cellar on your own.

After Potomje, I would suggest starting a drive back with a stop in Trstenik for wine tasting at Grgich and dinner at Vitaceae or Drace for wine tasting at Edivo Winery and dinner at Konoba Dalmatinska Kuca.

If you are not as interested in wine, drive to Orebić and hike to the top of Sv. Ilija Hill for amazing views is another option. Or go kite surfing in Viganj.

Out of this entire list, this may be the easiest and most convenient day trip from Dubrovnik. Only 10 miles north of Dubrovnik it is super easy to get to it by bus or car. In recent years, this has become a more visited destination because the arboretum was a set for King’s Landing Garden – Tyrell High Garden but still much fewer crowds than what you will see in Dubrovnik.

During our visit, we only saw a few other people walking around. But Game of Thrones tour buses do come through occasionally.

The gardens are beautiful and provide much-needed shade while exploring in the middle of sweltering summer days. And the views from the garden are just stunning.

The entrance fee is €7, and it takes a couple of hours to walk around the garden and see everything. Bring plenty of water with you, facilities are available to use on-site.

On the way back you can stop at Veranda 2.0 for a delicious lunch and go for a dip at Plaza (Beach) Orašac.

There are two ways to get to Korčula on a day trip from Dubrovnik:

• As a foot passenger, there is a direct ferry from Dubrovnik to Korčula. The travel time is 2 hours and 5 minutes and tickets are €9-€13.
• As a car passenger, you can drive to Orebić and take a car ferry. It is only a 20-minute journey with a 1 hour and 45-minute drive and tickets are €13-€30.

If possible, I would suggest taking a car ferry. There is a lot more to Korčula than just the Old Town and without a car, you will not be able to see it.

Upon arrival at Korčula Island , drive out to Smokvica, the tiny little village where you can stop at one of the local wineries for wine tasting. Korčula is known for growing the Pošip grape, a Croatian white wine varietal. While driving through Korčula Island, don’t be surprised to see little stands on the side of the road offering wine, olive oil, cheese or honey tasting.

After wine tasting you may be ready for a dip in crystal-clear refreshing water or maybe a lunch. We opted to drive down to Zavalatica, on a whim, for a delicious lunch and more wine at Konoba Albert (cash-only place) with stunning views. Another option is the town of Brna with more restaurant and beach options.

For the afternoon I would recommend driving back toward the Old Town. You can make a stop in Lumbarda, a town known for growing Grk grape (unique to Korčula) and try more wine. Grk is very hard to find outside of Korčula Island.

Korčula Old Town is small and easy to cover on foot. Park your car outside of town and stroll through the narrow streets and the beautiful pathway by the water full of bars and restaurants. Climb to the top of the tower for an amazing view of the city. And go by Marco Polo’s house, he is rumored to be from Korčula.

Called the greenest island in the Adriatic, Mljet Island is where Mljet National Park is. Mljet National Park is on the western part of the island, and it is best to take a ferry to Pomena for the easiest access to the National Park.

The National Park has two saltwater lakes – Malo (small) and Veliko (big) Jezero, a small island in the big lake with Sv. Marija church you can take a ferry to, plenty of beaches and hiking trails. You can rent kayaks and kayak around the island or in the lakes or hike up Mt. Montokuc for 360-degree views of the park.

The downside is there are no public facilities in the National Park which can make it for a long day. Outside of that, there are plenty of things to do here and feel completely isolated from busy Dubrovnik.

In Croatia, Plitvička Jezera and Krka National Park are probably the more common waterfalls everyone thinks about. But just a short drive from Dubrovnik, a little over a 2-hour drive, in Bosnia and Hercegovina, is Kravica Waterfalls. Arguably the most beautiful waterfalls in the Balkans.

It is locals’ favorite place to come in the summer and cool off as swimming is permitted in the waterfall pool. There isn’t much to do here but swim, sunbathe and enjoy cold beer. However, the waterfalls are impressive and worth a visit. When I visited the waterfalls for the first time in 2012, it was not a very well known place. Only few locals were there enjoying this beauty. These days it’s a different story.

A short drive from Kravica Waterfalls is Tvrđava Herceg Stjepana where you can walk around the recently renovated fortress from the 14 th century and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

Another option is the less popular and less stunning Waterfall Koćusa only 30 minutes from Waterfall Kravica, where you can enjoy the views of the waterfall while walking around.

Visiting one or all three of these places will make your experience in Dubrovnik richer.

You can drive here and will have to cross the border to Bosnia. Or you can take a tour bus.

Only an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik, Vjetrenica Cave is the largest cave in Bosnia and Hercegovina and the most biodiverse cave in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are over 200 different species of animals that live here.

The cave maintains a temperature of approximately 11 degrees C year long, so it is a perfect place to get away from the heat. Make sure you dress appropriately for this tour, with closed-toe shoes, long pants and some type of jacket to keep you warm.

The cave tour leaves every hour if you are doing this on your own instead of a tour group.

After your tour, you can enjoy lunch at Restaurant Zavala for a delicious traditional Bosnian meal and head back to Dubrovnik. Or combine this adventure with a visit to Waterfall Kravica.

Visiting Mostar is probably the most popular day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Hercegovina. Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most) has been a tourist attraction for a while now. If you are trying to avoid crowds, this will not be the place. However, it is a place worth visiting at least once.

The Old Bridge, market, cafes and restaurants in Mostar are all must-see. During busy summer months, there is usually a guy on the bridge asking for the tip to jump off the bridge into the beautiful Neretva River. These guys make a living doing this, so they wait until the tip jar is full to jump, but eventually, they do.

No trip to Mostar is final until you’ve had some local food, traditional dessert and Turkish coffee.

This city was brutalized during the Yugoslavian war in the 90s and don’t be surprised if you still see some buildings that have bullet holes on them or are completely ruined.

On the other side of Bosnia, close to Montenegro is Trebinje—an underrated town in Bosnia which makes it a perfect getaway for a day trip from Dubrovnik. Less than an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik, it feels like stepping back in time when you get to Trebinje. This hidden gem is almost untouched by tourism but has a lot to offer.

The view from Hercegovačka Graćanica Monastery offers some of the best views of the city. With the river Trebišnjica flowing through the city, you can also stroll by the river or go for a swim. Petrovic (Arsenalagić) Bridge is the most famous spot along the river. And finish the day with a delicious meal in the Old Town with some local wine.

Trebinje grows grapes and produces delicious wine much less known than Croatian wine and therefore much more affordable. Everything from local grapes like vranac (red grape) and žilavka (white grape) to internationally recognized wines like cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, syrah and pinot noir grows here.  So, make sure you taste some local wine or even visit one of the local wineries.

Full disclosure, just like Pelješac, a visit to Montenegro deserves more than a day trip from Dubrovnik. However, I know that it is not always possible. So, if you have only one day, I would suggest visiting Kotor but it will make for a long day. Get on the road as early as possible.

The drive to Montenegro is along the beautiful Adriatic coastline and the Bay of Kotor. Once in Kotor, everyone loves to go into the Old Town and climb the City Walls. I would suggest skipping the City Walls and hiking the Ladder of Kotor.

It is a hike with over 70 switchbacks but much less crowded with a never-ending view of the Bay of Kotor. This hike can take up to 4 hours depending on how far up you want to go and how many stops you make. Once back from the hike stop in Old Town to explore and have a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants.

The rest of the afternoon you can either spend going on a speedboat ride to Our Lady of the Rock Island and the blue cave where you can dip in the water. This tour takes 3 hours. Or you can take the newly opened cable car to Lovćen for stunning views of Kotor while enjoying an adult beverage or dessert at the restaurant.

I would suggest a boat cruise to the Blue Cave, as you get to see more of Montenegro this way and get an opportunity to swim in the Blue Cave.

Visiting Lokrum Island as a Day Trip from Dubrovnik is a relatively easy adventure, as there are ferries that leave very frequently, and the trip is only 15-20 minutes. There are many trails and pathways to walk and explore Lokrum Island as well as botanical gardens, an old monastery, and many beaches.

There are restaurants and bars on the island, but I would still suggest bringing enough of your own water to stay hydrated while exploring.

Another option that doesn’t necessarily get you to Lokrum Island but does get you from Dubrovnik crowds is kayaking around City Walk and Lokrum Island. It was one of the best things we did in Dubrovnik.

Be sure to catch a ferry back from the island, as there is nowhere to stay on the island.

Elaphiti Islands stretching northwest of Dubrovnik, consists of three small islands – Lopud, Sipan and Koločep. To visit and explore all three of them in one day, the best option may be to book a tour. The organized tours will keep you on the schedule and you don’t have to worry about which ferry to catch when. However, that is an option as well.

On each island, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, walks, beaches, sunbathing and on Sipan some locally produced wine and olive oil.

The Elaphiti Islands don’t feel as remote as Lokrum, since people live here and there are hotels, restaurants, grocery stores and such.

Ok, I must be honest. We did not do this adventure. And not because of the Skywalk, but because I just could not stomach the drive up there. The day before we drove over some sketchy roads in Bosnia, and I just could not get myself to do this right after. However, it is something that many other people find exhilarating, so we added it to our list.

Skywalk Biokovo is in the town of Tučepi, close to Makarska, almost 3 hours north of Dubrovnik. The Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped glass walkway over the edge of the cliff at 1228 meters above sea level located in the Ravna Vlaška area. It offers stunning views of the area but is not for people who are afraid of heights.

However, for me, the scarier thing is the 13 km (about 8.08 mi) drive on the paved mountain road from the entrance to the viewpoint. It is a one-way road, for two-way traffic (you have to love Eastern Europe and their roads!). It takes 30 minutes, and they only allow 25 vehicles every hour.

After the Skywalk, if you have time to spare make sure to check out Makarska Old Town for some delicious food and the beaches for some R&R after that nerve-wracking experience. 

Croatia is in the European Union, meanwhile Bosnia and Montenegro are not. This means, even for a day trip you need to cross the border and have your passport on you. You also need to be aware of customs regulations and understand what you can and cannot bring into each country.

Croatia and Montenegro’s currency is the Euro, meanwhile, the Bosnian currency is the Bosnian Mark. Credit cards are widely accepted; however, cash is still preferred.

The language between these three countries is essentially the same, but everyone calls it differently and has slightly different dialects. Saying Zdravo (Hello) and Cao (Hello or Goodbye) or Dovidjenja (Goodbye) is universal.

If renting a car and driving on your own, make sure that your car rental company allows the car to cross the border into Bosnia and Montenegro.

The civil war from the 1990s is still a sensitive subject in some of these areas, especially places like Mostar. It is best to avoid the subject altogether.

Other helpful posts…

Italy, Slovenia and Croatia Itinerary Two Weeks in Croatia for Wine Lovers Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia – 10 Day Balkan Itinerary

Europe | Explore | Travel

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Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia: Where to Get Away from the Crowds

last Updated: January 13, 2022 croatia dubrovnik

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Visiting Croatia and looking for the best day trips from Dubrovnik?! Get away from the crowds and add a few days to your itinerary to include these top Dubrovnik excursions! They happened to be some of my best days in Croatia overall!

Dubrovnik has got to be one of the most fascinating cities I’ve visited recently. From its distinctive Old Town and pedestrianized Stradun (placa) to the freshest of the fresh seafood and it’s sparkling Adriatic sea, this Croatian city is hard to beat.

HOWEVER, come during its prime tourist season (May-September), and you’ll be sharing all this wonderful-ness with thousands of other people. Thankfully, there are quite a few day trips from Dubrovnik that will get you away from the masses and entertain you with some much needed peace and quiet.

Please, oh please, go explore beyond the Old Town walls and common tourist sights and beaches of Dubrovnik . I’m literally begging you. From the seductive islands dotting the coast, complex history of nearby countries, and cobblestone streets just waiting to be explored, there’s enough day trips from Dubrovnik to keep you busy for days and days.

Don’t miss these 10 Dubrovnik excursions on your next trip to Croatia , or at least pick and choose a few if you haven’t got time for all of them!

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

1. the island of lokrum.

How to get there: Looking for an easy day trip from Dubrovnik? The Island of Lokrum may be just your answer. And with a short ferry ride away from Dubrovnik’s Old Town port, you’ll instantly find yourself a world away (minus the crowds!)

The ferry makes its way to Lokrum two to four times an hour, depending on the season, and is quite the quick journey at about 15 minutes or so. The price couldn’t be better either,  costing roughly 5 euro (40 kuna) — and because of this, a day trip to Lokrum from Dubrovnik is by far one of the most popular Dubrovnik day trips you’ll find.

In addition, if you’re up for it and feeling a bit extra and adventurous, you can also kayak from Dubrovnik to Lokrum island – you’ll definitely get views no one else will! | Book kayaking tour

What to do: After the super short ferry ride, prepare to spend the day exploring, as Lokrum Island is full of all things Games of Thrones, an absolutely gorgeous botanical garden,  and boasts tons of natural swimming spots.

If you’re cool wandering the island yourself, there’s no need to book a tour, but if you want to guarantee you’ll see the iron throne and all things Game of Throne, learn a bit about the monastery, and guarantee your spot on a boat, you’ll want to book a guided tour of Lokrum.

I kind of wish I signed up for a tour because although the buildings were gorgeous, I had no clue what I was looking at nor their significance. Don’t miss the peacocks and bunnies roaming around the island (usually in/near the botanical garden) and go for a swim in the super salty “Dead Sea”.

You can also just casually jump in that glistening Adriatic Sea basically anywhere on the coast of Lokrum – a dip is the ultimate way to refresh yourself in the super sweaty Croatian heat. Bring (or wear) your bathing suit!

How to get there: Since this old city is relatively close to Dubrovnik (at only 20km away), getting there is quite easy. You can either take a car or taxi cab (only a 30 minute drive), hop on a public bus (fares are 25 kn/~$4 US), or take a ferry if you’d rather spend a bit of time on the gorgeous Croatian waters (40kn/~$7 US).

In addition, Cavtat is pretty close to the airport, so wandering around the city is always an option if you’ve got ample time before your flight.

What to do: Cavtat is kind of like a mini Dubrovnik, being an old city and all, but thankfully, without all the crowds! Be sure not to miss Cavtat’s Old Town (which is fulllll of small town charm and tons of shops, restaurants, and swimming spots), hike the 5-mile (8 km) Ronald Brown Pathway (complete with incredible Croatian views – after you finish the rocky climb), and visit the Vlaho Bukovac House and Church of St. Nicholas.

There’s lots of options to get active in Cavtat, including biking, swimming, kayaking, so be sure to bring your bathing suit! A perfect day in Cavtat includes walking along the scenic paved trail, stopping at a few bars and restaurants along the way, then jumping right into the cool water from the rocky shore – my kinda day trip from Dubrovnik, that’s for sure.

How to get there : Another day trip from Dubrovnik that’s best reached by boat – especially if you’re planning to visit during the summer season. But be warned – the ride is rather long, lasting about two and a half hours, meaning those who aren’t up for a long ferry ride may want to have other day trip ideas up their sleeve.

And if you’d rather not figure out the ferries on your own (they can be semi-confusing if island hopping isn’t your typical activity), an organized tour may be your best bet. Why not leave the stresses to someone else (my top choice).

What to do: Besides being the stunning medieval town that it is, Korcula also boasts some of the most impressive scenery you’ll find on any day trip from Dubrovnik.

Be sure to c heck out some Renaissance-era palaces and lounge at an outdoor cafe, sipping coffee or local wine. Psst – if you’re a wine lover you’ve got to drive through the wine region in the peninsula of Peljesac and explore a local wine cellar, included on many organized tours to Korcula from Dubrovnik.

A few different options for your day trip to Korcula, some even including local wine tasting:

• Dalmatian Wines and Korcula Island Day Trip
• Standard Island of Korcula Day Tour
• Peljesac Peninsula Korcula Island Day Trip

4. Mljet National Park

How to get there: In my opinion, the best way to reach Mljet National Park is by booking yourself on an organized tour (especially if you’ve only got one day to experience all that the park has to offer). While a full independent round trip from Dubrovnik to Mljet is possible in just one day, things can get a bit complicated (with ferries, bus rides, bikes, etc), so I highly suggest an organized tour .

Note that if you are in fact attempting the ferries yourself, there is only one ferry to Mljet and one ferry back, only giving you about 3 hours on the island once you reach the lakes. Seems like a lot of hassle for such a short period of time. My advice – Book a tour.  Vacation shouldn’t be stressful.

What to do: Get back to nature and experience the true Croatia without all the thousands of people. Being Croatia’s greenest island, you can’t take this day trip from Dubrovnik and not visit the lakes. And while you’re here in Mljet, you have to make it to aptly named Big Lake and Small Lake – both are downright spectacular and not to be missed! You’ll even find a tiny island with an old Benedictine monastery on one of them.

Book a boat tour to get the best views of this! I missed out on this day trip from Dubrovnik on my last trip to Croatia, but I’m definitely making sure I plan a visit to Mljet National Park, one of the most beautiful and forested pearls of the Mediterranean.

Learn More and Book Tour to Mljet Here.

5. Elafiti Islands

How to get there: If you want to spend some time on the Elafiti Islands (which I’m dubbing as one of my favorite day trips from Dubrovnik – they were downright STUNNING), I recommend booking yourself on an organized tour ( which I did! )

Note that you can go to just one island if you’re traveling sans tour, but you’ll need to first get yourself to Port Gruz (on the other side of town) which can be a hefty cab ride.

What to do: Sailing trips to the Elafiti Islands will visit 3 of the 13 islands of this extraordinary archipelago. And if you choose to take a full day trip from Dubrovnik to these islands, you’ll be able to visit all three – Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan, drinks included!

Feast on grilled fish, visit some of the most stunning islands in the archipelago, and say goodbye to the crowds! Come for the beaches, stay for the picturesque villages, citrus gardens, old churches, and pine and olive forests. Basically, the Elafiti Islands are an absolute dream.

Don’t miss this as a visit to these islands were one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik by far – it was one of my favorite days in my 2 weeks in Croatia.

Sooo many options, all slightly different (check out each one to see what fits your taste before booking):

• Three Islands and Fish Picnic
• Elaphiti Islands Cruise
• Green Elaphiti Islands Cruise
• Full Day Kolocep Island Sea Kayaking 
• Kolocep Island Hiking and Swimming 

6. Babin Kuk

How to get there : Babin Kuk couldn’t be easier to reach! Located just a bit away from Dubrovnik’s Old Town (4km), at the northern end of the Lapad peninsula, you can take a short and super-cheap bus ride over here.

Because of it’s short distance from Old Town, this trip isn’t really a trueeee Dubrovnik excursion, but hanging out in Babin Kuk was one of my favorite afternoons so I couldn’t bare to leave it off this list. So many tourists don’t even think of venturing past Old Town, so a little nudge won’t hurt anyone. 😉

What to do: The entirely of Babin Kuk reminded me more of a chic Santa Barbara resort, as opposed to the old stone buildings in your typical Dubrovnik.  Make sure to walk along the paved coastal trail with it’s fine, fine seaside views, and stop at a cafe on the way for a macchiato and a margarita overlooking the ocean.

Time to hit up a beach club! Copacabana Beach and/or Coral Beach Club are both great options, with chairs for rent and food to order. And whatever you do, don’t miss out on the Cave Bar at Hotel More.

How to get there: Yes, Split is rather far from Dubrovnik (at around 230km away), which is kind of a ways away, but I just couldn’t bare to leave it off this list of Dubrovnik day trips. You can easily get there by driving yourself or taking a public bus (roughly 3 hours each way), but you’ll encounter border crossings at the Bosnia-Herzegovina border which sometimes take longer than expected.

Because of this, if you’ve only got a day alloted to exploring Split, it may be best to travel from Dubrovnik on an organized group that will take care of all the details and get you through the border crossings quite easily.

What to do :  Understand that with only one day in Split, you won’t be able to see all that this city has to offer. With that being said, I still think it’s worth it to go, being one of Croatia’s most famous cities with tons and tons of unique architecture (including a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Don’t miss Diocletian’s Palace, a stroll along the city’s promenade – Riva, people watch in the lively Narodni (People’s’) Square, and make a visit to the fish market and green (veggie) market. I highly recommend spending more than just one day in Split, but if that’s all you got, a day trip from Dubrovnik is better than nothing.

Learn More and Book Tour to Split here

8. Kotor, Budva, and Perast, Montenegro

How to get there: Again, unless you’ve rented a car or want to spend all day on the public bus, an organized tour would be my honest recommendation on how to spend the bulk of your day in these small towns in Montenegro.

And since Kotor, Budva, and Perast are all located in yes, another country, expect border crossings again. And plus, the organized tours aren’t really not that pricey anyways).

What to do: You didn’t think you’d be day tripping from Dubrovnik to another country, now did you?!  I spent an absolutely fantastic day in Montegreno, and didn’t expect to fall for the country as hard as I did, as fast as I did. What’s better than spending a day out on the water?!

While in Kotor, make sure you make the climb up to the St. John’s Fortress (Sveti Ivan) to get unparalleled views of the entire town below (you’ll be swooning over the Bay of Kotor – a UNESCO World Heritage site – in no time) , and then go on a short boat ride to Perast!

Read Next: One Stunning Day in Kotor, Montenegro

Plenty of organized tours also make a stop at the walled seaside town of Budva, where you can lounge on the beautiful beach, wander the streets, and sit down for a seafood lunch. Doesn’t get much better than this! Kotor and Budva are definitely some of the best day trips from Dubrovnik!

Plenty of day trip options to Kotor:

• Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• Montenegro by Boat (from Dubrovnik)
• Day Trip to Perast, Kotor, and Budva (from Dubrovnik)
• Montenegro History Tour (from Dubrovnik)

9. Mostar, Bosnia

How to get there: If you’re staying overnight (which I highly recommend), feel free to take the bus from Dubrovnik as it’s a smooth and simple ride, taking about 4 hours or so (plus border crossings).

However, if you’ve only got one day allotted for Mostar, a group tour is the way to go, especially because they’ll be invaluable for the necessary border crossings as well which can sometimes take an awfully long time. A day trip to Mostar can also take you to Kravice Falls and Pocitelj quite easily as well (both well worth it in my opinion).

What to do: As one of the most unique day trips from Dubrovnik, Mostar is not to be missed! Don’t miss walking across the Stari Most, one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks. You may even get lucky and see a diver jumping off the bridge – an old tradition over here!

Get some cevapi in town (small meat sausages served in flat bread) for lunch – you definitely won’t regret it!

And before you get too wrapped up in the cities beauty, be sure not to forget the countries perilous past, which won’t be hard to miss after seeing bullet ridden buildings and still-decrepit walls. I highly recommend reading up on the war and turbulent history before making your visit to Mostar.

Mostar was by far one of my favorite cities on my entire trip to Croatia and Bosnia, and you can bet I’d recommend at last a day trip from Dubrovnik. If you have time, be sure to stay at least one night (if you can squeeze it in of course).

There’s lots of tour options for Mostar, all extremely similar (you can’t go wrong with any of these):

• Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls
• Full Day to Mostar, Pocitelj, and Kravice Waterfalls
• Bosnia and Herzogovina Day Trip
• Small Group Tour to Mostar and Kravice

10. Sarajevo, Bosnia

How to Get There:  Just putting it out there, but Sarajevo is one of the longest possible day trips from Dubrovnik. It can be done in just one day (if you are absolutely smitten with the idea of heading there), but I’d prefer to have more time there.

Located even further from Dubrovnik than Mostar in Bosnia, Sarajevo will take you roughly 4 hours to reach. The good news – you can take a private tour to reach Sarajevo if you don’t want to drive it yourself, but the bad news – it’s kinda pricey if you don’t have multiple friends/family members to join you (but downright awesome if you do).

What to Do:   Once you reach the city of Sarajevo via your own private vehicle (woo woo!), you’ll do a 2-hour sightseeing tour via luxury vehicle while discovering the most important landmarks and memorials the city has to offer. Admire the Latin Bridge, Bascarsija Bazaar and many other sites including the Sarajevo Roses.

After the sightseeing tour, take some free time to enjoy the town at your own leisure. Ask your guide for sightseeing advice or just wander, enjoying a coffee at a cafe or just stroll the streets before departing again for Dubrovnik.

Learn More and Book Sarajevo Tour Here

Which day trips from Dubrovnik are you most excited about? Will you be adding any Dubrovnik excursions to your itinerary?!

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March 26, 2021 at 8:32 am

Dubronik sounds like quite a lovely city, and I love the option of several day trips around it.

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THE 10 BEST Dubrovnik Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in dubrovnik.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls from Dubrovnik

2. Dubrovnik City Tour: Panorama Drive & Sightseeing Walk

3. Private boat tour- explore the islands, find hidden caves and try snorkelling

4. Full-Day Tour Bay of Kotor Perast Kotor and Budva small group from Dubrovnik

5. Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik

6. Blue Cave, Green Cave and Lopud Šunj Beach Speedboat Tour

7. Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside

8. E-Tuk Tuk Tour in Dubrovnik

9. Blue Cave and caves Discovery Dubrovnik - Group Tour by Boat

10. Regina Maris - Premier Elaphite Islands Full Day with Lunch

11. Oysters and Wine Tour from Dubrovnik (Small Group)

12. Montenegro Private Full Day Tour from Dubrovnik

13. Private Montenegro tour (incl. Herceg Novi, Perast and Kotor) from Dubrovnik

14. Montenegro Private Tour: Kotor, Perast,Our Lady Of The Rock,Budva

15. Dubrovnik Bestseller (2 cities and panorama tour) SHORE EXCURSION

16. BLUE CAVE private speedboat tour with drinks

17. 2-Hour Dubrovnik Private Buggy Panorama Safari

18. Rent a small boat without skipper - explore the islands and find hidden caves

19. Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting

20. Dubrovnik Old Town Walking Tour

21. Dubrovnik E-Tuk Tuk Sunset Tour to Mount Srd

22. Dubrovnik Self-Drive Boat Rental for up to 6 People

23. E-Bike Tour + Gourmet Lunch + Wine Tasting (Small Group)

24. Private Boat Tour from Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands

25. Half-Day Private Elafiti Island Boat Tour

26. Explore Secrets Of Elaphiti island - Private Speed Boat Tour

27. 3-Hour Dubrovnik Countryside ATV/Quad Safari Adventure Tour

28. Private tour Montenegro

29. Korcula Private Tour from Dubrovnik

30. PRIVATE TOUR to Medugorje, Kravice waterfalls and Mostar

What travelers are saying.

• Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise with Lunch
• Blue Cave, Green Cave and Lopud Šunj Beach Speedboat Tour
• Atv-Quad Safari Tour in Konavle from Dubrovnik
• E-Tuk Tuk Tour in Dubrovnik
• Full-Day Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls from Dubrovnik

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Day trips from dubrovnik.

• Dubrovnik to Kotor
• Dubrovnik to Mostar
• Dubrovnik to Lopud
• Dubrovnik to Ston
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik

2. Kravice Waterfalls, Mostar and Pocitelj Day Tour from Dubrovnik

3. Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Tour from Dubrovnik (Semi Private)

4. Best of Montenegro - Bay of Kotor tour

5. Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Small-Group with Turkish House Included

6. Full-Day Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls from Dubrovnik

7. Private boat tour- explore the islands, find hidden caves and try snorkelling

8. Atv-Quad Safari Tour in Konavle from Dubrovnik

9. Full-Day Tour Bay of Kotor Perast Kotor and Budva small group from Dubrovnik

10. Oysters and Wine Tour from Dubrovnik (Small Group)

11. Montenegro Private Full Day Tour from Dubrovnik

12. Private Montenegro tour (incl. Herceg Novi, Perast and Kotor) from Dubrovnik

13. Complete Game of Thrones Experience in Dubrovnik

14. Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands

15. Luxury Day tour to Mostar and Kravice waterfalls

16. Private full day Montenegro tour from Dubrovnik by Doria ltd.

17. Dubrovnik Bestseller (2 cities and panorama tour) SHORE EXCURSION

18. Private Tour: Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

19. Mostar and Medjugorje Day Trip from Dubrovnik

20. Luxury Day tour to Montenegro

21. Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting

22. Wine Lover's Tour of Peljesac Peninsula

23. Montenegro & Bosnia in 1day: 2 Countries Day Tour from Dubrovnik

24. Mostar,Kravica waterfall and more - Bosnia/Herz tour(Small group)

25. Luxury Konavle Gastro tour

26. Mostar, Pocitelj and Kravice Waterfalls Private Tour from Dubrovnik

27. Private Boat Tour from Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands

28. Montenegro: Bay of Kotor Day Trip from Dubrovnik

29. Kotor Bay Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Boat Ride to Lady of the Rock

30. Explore Secrets Of Elaphiti island - Private Speed Boat Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Kravice Waterfalls, Mostar and Pocitelj Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Tour from Dubrovnik (Semi Private)
• Best of Montenegro - Bay of Kotor tour
• Atv-Quad Safari Tour in Konavle from Dubrovnik
• Explore Dubrovnik
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Excursions & Tours

Best of Dubrovnik

Old Town Walking Tour

Game of Thrones Tour

Dubrovnik All in One

Dubrovnik History and Game of Thrones

Half Day Sea Kayaking

Old Town and City Walls Walk

Wine and Oysters

Panoramic Dubrovnik and Free Time in Old Town

Exploring Dubrovnik by Cable Car

Outside City Walls Game of Thrones Driving Tour

Highlights of Dubrovnik

Explore Cavtat On Your Own

Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island On Your Own

Panoramic Dubrovnik and Sunset Toast

Islands and Fish Tour

Korcula Island with Wine

Game of Thrones and the Old Town Tour

Sunset Sea Kayaking and Wine

Secrets of Dubrovnik

Journey to Mljet Island

Panoramic Dubrovnik History by Boat

Culinary Delights of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Sights by Land and Sea

Journey to Konavle Valley with Croatian Tavern Lunch

Private Dubrovnik Highlights

Scenic Dubrovnik by Boat and Franciscan Monastery

Private Cavtat and Konavle with Lunch

Private Cavtat On Your Own

Private City and Beach by Speed Boat

Private Dubrovnik and Cable Car Experience

Private Dubrovnik and Konavle Wine Tasting

Private Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island On Your Own by Boat

Private Dubrovnik Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting

Private Dubrovnik, Trsteno and Lokrum by Speedboat

Private Game of Thrones with City Walls

Private Panoramic Dubrovnik, Old City and Cavtat

Private Peljesac Wine Trail with Tastings

Private Taste of Dalmatia

Private Panoramic Dubrovnik History by Speed Boat

Dubrovnik tours & cavtat, croatia shore excursions.

Take a real step back in time when you visit Dubrovnik, a town implanted with medieval roots and adorned in medieval style. Located in the southern portion of Croatia and situated on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik over time has developed a unique natural landscape that provides an exceptional place to explore, where it is common to find yourself not wanting to leave a place with exceptional beauty. While in Dubrovnik, delight in the opportunity to see all that this unique walled-city has to offer. Marvel at Dubrovnik's Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture and structures. Travel outside of Dubrovnik to the beautiful and lush countryside, into the small neighboring town of Cavtat, a quaint town that will bring pleasure to any visitor. Dubrovnik's wine and local cuisine are not to be missed either. You have a wealth of options regarding how to go about your visit, from walking tours to cable car rides and even bike tours.

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Europe Tours & Trips from Dubrovnik

Find your perfect adventure! We have 156 tours of Europe that start in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 2 and 22 days.

156 Europe tour packages from Dubrovnik with 364 reviews

A Luxe Expedition from Dubrovnik to Istanbul & Cappadocia

• In-depth Cultural

Dubrovnik to Athens

The tour gave a good overview about the balkan countries!

Southern Europe: Montenegro, Corfu & Medieval Fortresses

Meet the Balkans Through Croatia, Bosnia and Serbia (Multi country)

This was one amazing tour! This part of the world is so incredibly rich in culture, history, and beauty. Every single stop on this journey was another step into incredible things to see and do. I could never have done this on my own with all the multiple border crossings and the first rate accomodations lined up by Gulliver Travel. A special thanks to Ivana for making it all happen....your the best!

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Tour from Dubrovnik to Athens or Corfu: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Wonderful! The whole trip went as planned.The trip was very organized from booking through getting everyone back to the airport at the end of the trip.They went well above and beyond! Their attention to detail was spectacular. The places we visited were breath taking!

Dubrovnik to Vienna; Gems of the Balkans & Central Europe

This was a great tour, we were able to see a lot of places in the 7 days. Sokol the Tour guide was fantastic, he made the tour great. The meals and hotels included were all excellent. It was great value for money. We had a very good experience and loved it.

• Sightseeing

Dubrovnik to Venice

Dubrovnik to Athens A Journey Through History

Nice job guys. I really appreciated it.

Dubrovnik to Athens: Beachfronts & Fortresses

This trip was absolutely amazing! And it was all due to our amazing guide - he was, hands down, the most knowledgeable and charismatic tour guide a person could have dreamed up! He not only made it possible for our diverse group to get to know one another, he introduced us to experiences, places and persons that a local would only know. He was meticulously organized down to a "T", arranged for upgrades at his own expense, and left the group with little to no worries about where/what would be done next. If I could book tours with this guide solely - I would. In fact, for my next adventure I do plan on booking with G Adventures and requesting his tour.

Bosnia & Beyond

Great itinerary, fantastic guide , the out of way places, clear instructions, great and polite driver, great humor from guide and very friendly. Wonderful tour.

Off-season Bosnia+Montenegro 5 days discovery tour from Dubrovnik. UNESCO sites. Nature. Architecture. Culture. Wine. Cuisine. History. Old towns. Ancient monasteries.

Ana and Serge were awesome, Ana is very knowledgeable in the areas that we visited and Serge is an excellent driver and an all around nice guy. I would not hesitate to book with again with them as I now have some great pictures and memories!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Dubrovnik to Santorini

Dubrovnik to Santorini: Croatia Highlights & Greek Island Hopping

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• Coach / Bus

Best of the Adriatic

The overall experience of being in Croatia was great. The tour was fast-paced, but fulfilling to have seen so many countries in a small amount of time. The experience was enhanced with Simona, our tour guide. She was brilliant, articulate very knowledgeable and such a joy to have as our guide.

What people love about Europe Tours from Dubrovnik

Amazing!!! Best thing I’ve ever done

My wife and I just returned from an eleven-day tour of several Balkan countries that was arranged by Choose Balkans. We visited Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia, Herzegovina and Kosovo. Although Choose Balkans offers a wide variety of pre-planned tours that look superb (see their website), none of them met our particular needs. (We had visited North Macedonia and Croatia previously and wanted to focus on other countries this time. Also, we had time constraints that had to be accommodated.) We had read excellent Trip Advisor reviews of Choose Balkans and, based on these reviews, we contacted the company to determine if they could plan a tour for us that would meet our needs. One of their agents, Sirma, responded to us immediately, assuring us that such a tour could be arranged. She quickly put together a private tour that included all the places we wished to visit and suggested the timeline, historical sites, other tourist attractions, and types of lodging we would have in each country. The proposed tour was exactly what we wanted and the price was reasonable, so we accepted the offer. Sirma was extremely helpful during the planning process, responding to our questions and concerns quickly and professionally. When we arrived in Tirana (Albania) we were met at the airport and, from that moment onward, every aspect of our tour was overseen by Choose Balkans staff. After checking into our apartment (an excellent facility owned by Choose Balkans) we went to the company’s office and met Sirma. We also met Brikena who oversaw the daily implementation of our tour. Later that evening we met our guide for the tour, Sokol Selami, and had dinner with him and Brikena to discuss details of the tour. Sokol was a superb guide (and an accomplished driver who could negotiate the narrow streets of old towns with finesse!). He was highly knowledgeable of the history, culture, cuisine and social features of each place we visited. It was easy to communicate with Sokol and he was attuned to our personal needs and wishes throughout the tour. For anyone considering a tour of any of the Balkan countries, we highly recommend Choose Balkans. This company delivers exactly what it promises, at a reasonable price, and with extraordinary attention to customer satisfaction.

Tours starting from Dubrovnik

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Dubrovnik, Croatia Shore Excursions

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