Exciting Day Trips from Dubrovnik That You Can't Miss

With so much to see and do in Dubrovnik, it’s easy to forget that there are some amazing sights in the surrounding region. If you find yourself in Dubrovnik for more than a day or two and are looking for a change of scenery from Dubrovnik’s walls and towers, there are plenty of day trips to take from the city. It is easy to explore some of the amazing sites that are just a short drive or bus ride away.

It really is worth making the effort to leave the city. I promise that you won’t be disappointed.

Easy Reference Guide

These are my favourite day trips from Dubrovnik.

1. Escape to the Tranquil Elafiti Islands

Have you ever wanted to go island hopping but can’t face the trip to Thailand or Malaysia? The Elafiti Islands are located just a short boat ride from Dubrovnik and make for the perfect day trip. The islands are a nature lovers’ paradise with crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, and lush greenery and the beaches offer a welcome respite from the busy streets of Dubrovnik’s old town.

There seems to be some discrepancy as to the exact number of islands that make up the archipelago. The recent classification puts the number at 13 islands, but the 3 main islands, Koločep, Lopud and Sipa are what we are interested in. Lopud and Koločep are totally free of cars so there is zero traffic. The best way to explore the islands is on foot. Of course, you can just soak up the rays and laze on the beach.

The water that surrounds the islands is generally quite calm making it the ideal place to go swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!: Elafiti Islands Trip w/ Lunch and Optional Pickup

2. Explore Croatia’s Island Gem, Korcula

Why plan a Dubrovnik to Korcula day trip?

According to the legend Korcula was discovered in the 12th century BC by Antenor (the same who discovered Patavatium, now Padova).

Korcula Island is one of the most stunning and popular islands in Croatia. It’s known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. There’s plenty to do on Korcula Island, from exploring its charming villages to swimming, sunbathing, and sailing.

The most popular beach on the island is Pupnatska on the southern shore, Przina in Lumbard and Sveti Nikola in Korcula town. Lumbarda is also home to the 14th-century church which you can see by climbing the102 stairs,

Be sure to visit the walled town of Korcula, which is home to a number of historic churches and buildings. It is also reputed to be one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. With terracotta roofs and pretty streets, it is a bit like Dubrovnik, but without the masses of tourists.

There is a bit of controversy about Marco Polo but most historians agree that Marco Polo was born in the Republic of Venice and in the city of Venice itself. However, it is also claimed that Marco Polo was born in the town of Korcula on the island Korcula, which was then part of the Venetian Republic. You can still visit his house on the island.

The countryside is pretty with its vineyards and olive trees. Korcula is also known for its wine production, so be sure to visit one of the local wineries and sample some of the region’s finest vintages.

Instead of booking a tour in July and August, you can take a catamaran that departs from Dubrovnik for Korcula. More info on sailing schedules and ticket prices can be found on the TP website.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Discover Korcula from Dubrovnik including Winery Visit OR Island of Korcula Day Tour from Dubrovnik

3. Lokrum Island – Not just for Game of Thrones fans

If you’re looking for a tranquil and picturesque escape from the bustle of city life, Lokrum Island is the perfect destination for you. It is just a short ferry ride from the heart of Dubrovnik. This small and secluded island is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in all of Croatia.

There are towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life – making it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. In addition to its natural beauty, Lokrum Island also offers plenty of things to do and see.

Lokrum’s special attraction is a small lake called Mrtvo More (Dead Sea). What makes it special is that it is linked to the sea.

There are several medieval ruins to explore, including an 11th-century Benedictine monastery and a fort from the 16th century. The Monastery was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones. You might recognise it from the garden party scene in Qarth. There is also an exhibition dedicated to the filming of Game of Thrones in Croatia at the monastery.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Guided Sea Kayaking Tour with Snack – explore the coast of Lokrum Island OR Lokrum Island Game of Thrones Tour

Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik — Lokrum Island view from Dubrovnik

4. Mostar Bosnia: A Must-See on your Travels

Mostar is a city located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina not far from Dubrovnik. It is situated on the Neretva River and is the most important city in the Herzegovina region. Mostar was severely damaged during the Bosnian War, but has been rebuilt and is now a popular tourist destination.

What makes Mostar special is the beautiful old town, which was built in the Ottoman period and is full of Turkish influences, narrow streets, mosques, and shops. Mostar is also home to some pretty incredible scenery, so be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the surrounding area while you’re there.

There are also several bridges over the Neretva River, including the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), a bridge which was built in the 16th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city but was destroyed during the war. It has since been rebuilt under the watchful eye of UNESCO and is a World Heritage site.

The bridge is also famous for adrenaline junkies who love to jump off the 24-metre-high bridge into the river below. The first recorded jump from the bridge was in 1664 and the city has held an annual diving competition every year since 1968 and has since been added to the Red Bull World Cliff Diving Series tour.

The city has vibrant nightlife and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. If you’re looking for a city that has a mix of history and culture, Mostar is definitely worth visiting.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Mostar & Kravica Waterfalls Small-Group Tour OR Full-Day Trip to Mostar and Kravice Falls

5. Montenegro: Europe’s hidden gem?

Montenegro is a small, mountainous country located in southeastern Europe. Montenegro is known for its stunning mountain scenery, crystal clear waters and lovely beaches.

Montenegro has something to offer everyone – from city lovers who want to explore the lively nightlife and historical sights of Podgorica and Kotor to those who prefer a quiet escape in one of the country’s many charming villages.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking or biking in the spectacular mountains or kayaking down one of the many rivers and lakes. And sun worshippers will find plenty of perfect spots along Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

One of the best day trips from Dubrovnik is exploring Montenegro, taking in the towns of Kotor, Perast and Budva.

The town of Kotor is the highlight of a visit to Montenegro. It is a fortified medieval town that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is as pretty as a picture postcard with cobbled stoned streets, cute squares and stone houses.

Perast is best known for the Lady of the Rocks church which is built on a man-made island just off the coast.

Budva is known for its beaches, nightlife, and historical sites. The old town of Budva is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are several churches and palaces that are worth seeing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the old town, and the beach is just a few minutes away.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Montenegro Day Trip

6. Get back to nature at Mljet National Park

Mljet National Park is located on the island of Mljet, in southern Croatia and is one of 8 national parks in Croatia. Officially the park only covers half of the island, but it is really beautiful. What makes it even more appealing is one of the easier day trips from Dubrovnik.

There are 2 saltwater lakes, Big Lake and Small Lake in the park. Big Lake is a popular spot for swimming and boating. A boat ride takes you to the small island of St, Mary, where you can visit a beautiful Benedictine monastery dating from the 12^th century.

There are also some beautiful beaches and some easy hiking trails.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! National Park Mljet Island Day Trip

7. Enjoy the culinary delights of the region

It’s no secret if you have read my blog before, that wherever I go I devote some time to enjoying to the food of the region, going on food tours or taking a cooking class.

Croatia’s coastline has a stunning array of the freshest seafood to enjoy. Join a tour and learn more about the history of the region and visit some of the most picturesque villages in the region. Naturally, you will get to try some first-class local food, cheese, olive oil and more.

You could also explore the wine of the region, while you enjoy the local sights on these tours.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Korčula Day Trip with Wine Tasting OR Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik OR Taste of Dalmatia Tour from Dubrovnik

8. Plitvice National Park: A Majestic Beauty, Frozen in Time

The Plitvice National Park is known for its 16 terraced lakes and waterfalls that all seem to interconnect. It is also where you can see Croatia’s largest waterfall.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The park covers an area of 300 square kilometres and is home to 1,300 plant species and numerous animal species

You can walk or hike along the many trails that wind through the park, taking in the natural beauty of the area. Boat rides are also available on some of the lakes and you can also rent a kayak to explore on your own. There are several restaurants and cafes in the park

Not only is a visit to Plitvice National Park a good reason to visit Croatia it is also the most visited natural attraction in Croatia. It is unbelievably beautiful and well worth taking a day trip from Dubrovnik.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Private Tour of National Park Plitvice from Dubrovnik

9. Split: a city with plenty of history and culture to offer visitors!

I just had to include a visit to Split when it comes to day trips from Dubrovnik, but it is one of the longest. In all honesty, if you have the time, you should spend at least a night in Split, but sometimes you are pushed for time. Split is a gorgeous city and nowhere near as busy as Dubrovnik so is still worth considering when you plan your itinerary.

Right in the heart of the city are some amazing ancient Roman ruins. The Diocletian Palace is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is well worth exploring. It is quite a magical experience to sit and enjoy a coffee at one of the restaurants in the courtyard.

The Riva is a seafront promenade lined with palm trees, shaded benches and bustling cafes. It is the perfect place to people-watch.

There are also several Game of Thrones filming locations that even if you are not a fan are still worth seeing.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Split -A local expert guide will show you the most important parts of Split on a walking tour then you have time to explore further on your own.

10. Take a plunge in Dubrovnik’s crystal clear waters!

Diving in Dubrovnik is a great opportunity to explore the Adriatic Sea and its many dive sites. There are many different dive sites to choose from, each with its own unique features. Novice divers can learn to dive in Dubrovnik, while experienced divers can explore more challenging dive sites.

Some of the best dive sites in Dubrovnik are located near the city walls. These walls were built by the ancient Greeks and Romans and are now a popular tourist attraction. The walls offer a variety of dive sites, including reefs, tunnels, and caves.

Another great spot for diving is Lokrum Island. This island is located just offshore from Dubrovnik and is home to a number of interesting dive sites, including an old monastery, a sunken ship, and several reefs.

🤩 Che ck Prices and Availability!Dubrovnik: 1-Day Discover Scuba Diving Course – 2 dives, Learn from an expert instructor and receive credits towards the Open Water Diver certification
🤩 Check Prices and Availability! Scuba Diving in Dubrovnik: 1 Dive for Certified Divers – This 2.5-hour diving session is for certified divers only

Pro tips for your Dubrovnik day trips

One of the worst things that could happen is that you arrive at your destination and your bank cards don’t work. Before you leave home contact your credit card company and check if there are foreign transaction fees apply so that you don’t get a nasty surprise when you get your statement. It is also a good idea to give them the dates that you will be out of the country,

When you only have a short time to spare and are planning your day trips from Dubrovnik I can’t stress enough how important it is to book your tickets in advance. I know of friends who went to Barcelona and were not able to see La Sagrada Familia, one of the main places on their bucket list because the tickets were sold out.

Tickets booked online, in advance, are often discounted. It also means that in many instances you can skip the line and save precious time that can be used for something more useful, like enjoying a cocktail or two.

There you have it! My selection of the best day trips from Dubrovnik. I do not doubt that no matter what you choose it will be a memorable experience.

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