After soaking up the stunning sights and things to do in Dubrovnik, from wandering the ancient city walls to enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, day trips from Dubrovnik invite you to discover the rich tapestry of the surrounding region. These excursions offer a glimpse into the tranquil islands, historic towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes that lie just beyond the city’s gates.
Venturing out from Dubrovnik uncovers the diverse array of things to do in Croatia, where you can explore the serene beauty of the Elafiti Islands, the enchanting streets of Ston, and the majestic waterfalls of Krka National Park. Each destination outside Dubrovnik enriches your Croatian journey with unique cultural insights and natural wonders.
Choosing where to stay in Dubrovnik is essential for travelers aiming to experience the city’s historical charm while being strategically located for day trips. The right accommodation not only promises magnificent views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea but also provides convenient access to explore Dubrovnik’s picturesque surroundings.
Discover Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia
1. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina, is known for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and a blend of cultural influences. The city offers a rich history, vibrant bazaars, and unique architecture.
Distance: Approximately 140 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com) or Bus (Busbud);
Main Attractions: Stari Most (Old Bridge), vibrant bazaars, unique Ottoman-influenced architecture
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Old Bridge Museum: €5
- Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque: €3
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Neretva River, Stari Most, Old Bazaar
Travel Tip: Try the local Bosnian cuisine, especially Ćevapi and Burek, for an authentic gastronomic experience.
2. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor, Montenegro, is a beautifully preserved medieval town nestled in one of Europe’s most stunning bays. Explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, impressive fortress, and enjoy the spectacular Bay of Kotor.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: UNESCO-listed Old Town, Kotor Fortress, Bay of Kotor
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kotor Fortress: €8
- Maritime Museum: €4
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bay of Kotor, Kotor Old Town, Kotor Fortress
Travel Tip: Climb the fortress for breathtaking views, but start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
3. Korčula, Croatia
Korčula Island, known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, is famous for its charming old town, lush vineyards, and beautiful beaches. The island is a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 2 to 3 hours by ferry, or quicker if combined with a car journey
Transportation: Ferry and Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval old town, Marco Polo’s birthplace, vineyards, and beaches
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- St. Mark’s Cathedral: €3
- Marco Polo Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Korčula Old Town, Lumbarda Vineyards, Beaches
Travel Tip: Sample the local white wine, Pošip, and explore the small villages dotted around the island.
4. Elafiti Islands, Croatia
The Elafiti Islands, a small archipelago near Dubrovnik, are perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration. The main islands, Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, each offer unique charms, from sandy beaches to lush greenery and historic sites.
Distance: Approximately 10-20 km (depending on the island)
Travel Time: About 30 minutes to 1 hour by ferry
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Sandy beaches, lush greenery, historic sites on Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for island access)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Šunj Beach on Lopud, Suđurađ Village on Šipan, Koločep Island
Travel Tip: Lopud Island is car-free and home to one of the region’s few sandy beaches, Šunj Beach, which is ideal for a leisurely day.
5. Pelješac Peninsula, Croatia
Pelješac Peninsula is renowned for its wine production, particularly red wines like Dingač and Postup. The region also offers stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and fresh seafood.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Wine production, quaint villages, fresh seafood, and the Great Wall of Ston
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Great Wall of Ston: €5
- Winery Tour: €10-€20
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ston Walls, Mali Ston Bay, Pelješac Vineyards
Travel Tip: Visit a local winery for a tasting and combine your trip with a stop at the historic town of Ston, famous for its oysters and the Great Wall of Croatia.
6. Mljet National Park, Croatia
Mljet National Park, on the island of Mljet, is an oasis of tranquility known for its dense Mediterranean forest, saltwater lakes, and a Benedictine monastery on a small islet. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking peace.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2.5 hours by ferry
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Dense Mediterranean forest, saltwater lakes, Benedictine monastery
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- National Park Entrance: €20
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Veliko and Malo Jezero (Large and Small Lakes), Monastery on St. Mary’s Island
Travel Tip: Rent a bike or kayak to explore the national park and its lakes fully.
7. Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Trebinje, a hidden gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is just a short drive from Dubrovnik and offers a glimpse into a less-visited region. The town features Ottoman-influenced architecture, a serene river, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ottoman-influenced architecture, serene Trebišnjica River, local market
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for most attractions)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Trebišnjica River, Arslanagić Bridge, Old Town Trebinje
Travel Tip: Visit the local market to experience the town’s vibrant daily life and try the region’s famous honey.
8. Cavtat, Croatia
Cavtat, a small coastal town in Croatia, is known for its beautiful waterfront, historical buildings, and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik, with lovely beaches and a scenic promenade.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Beautiful waterfront, historical buildings, scenic promenade
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for most attractions)
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Rat Peninsula, Cavtat Harbor, Old Town Cavtat
Travel Tip: Enjoy a waterfront meal with a view of the Adriatic Sea and take a walk around the Rat Peninsula for stunning views and swimming spots.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513?activity_type=dayTrip
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