14 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia

Bordering the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik serves as a suitable base to wander astray out into the surrounding islands. Discover the veritable volume of day trip destinations sure to appease your curiosity and ignite the travel bug within. From the bucolic villages and verdant forests to the pristine waters and historical hot spots, this guide includes the 14 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Encircled with UNESCO-listed city walls and oozing an old-school charm, Dubrovnik draws in millions of visitors every year. From manoeuvring the maze-like streets and kicking back cliff-side to sink a sunset beer, you’ll no doubt be left contemplating Dubrovnik’s revelling rapture. Embodying an eclectic essence that’s simply unparalleled, the city is magnified as one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

But come summer, when navigating the narrow alleys and battling through cramped crowds can become a bit too much, a day trip could shed a glimpse of hope. Croatia is crowned with nonpareil natural splendour, colourful cuisine and bewildering cultural heritage. Every corner of this country deserves to be discovered. Whether you want to dip your toes in the water of the wooded islands or uncover age-old ruins in sleepy villages, there’s plenty on offer for everybody.

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• 14 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

• How to Get Around Dubrovnik

• FAQs

• How to Plan a Trip to Croatia

Lokrum Island

Sitting on Dubrovnik’s doorstep, Lokrum Island is easily one of the most incredible day trips on offer. This uninhabited natural splendour is fringed by pine forests and crowned with rocky coves.

Sitting a short 600 metres from Dubrovnik’s shoreline, Lokrum Island makes for a quick and easy day trip. Simply jump aboard a ferry ride from the port in Dubrovnik’s Old Town!

Lokrum is lapped with ample walking tracks that intertwine lush greenery, colourful gardens and the crashing coastline. Take a dip in the pristine waters, hit the heights of the French Fort Royal Castle and look down at the Adriatic Sea.

The scene is painted by peacocks and palm trees, botanical gardens and is dotted with distinctive remnants from the Napoleonic and medieval eras, amongst others. Admire the array of native and imported plants in the Lkorum Botanical Garden and learn about the legendary curse near Mrtvo More (Dead Sea).

Amidst the ancient ruins, there’s also a monastery & a restaurant to revel in the landscape as you sip a cocktail (or three) and replenish your cravings.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Lokrum Island: Around 10-20 minutes (via ferry or speedboat) and tickets cost 150 kn per passenger.

*Keep in mind that the last boat leaves around 7 pm (and is subject to change depending on the time of year).

Split

Aside from the too-good-to-be-true, turquoise waters along the Dalmatian coast, this vibrant hub has been an ancient district for almost 2000 years. Behind the sprawling sites and Roman ruins, you’ll find a rather vivacious nightlife and gratifying gastronomy scene, effortlessly exhibiting the city’s blend of modern and medieval.

This colourful city is crowned with an eye-catching collection of finds. As one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik to Split, this is a must-see if you have limited time in Croatia. Situated around 230 km from Dubrovnik, this is one of the longest yet most worthy escapes.

As the country’s second-largest city, Split harbours a wealth of opportunities to satisfy beach lovers, history fanatics, nightlife enthusiasts and frivolous foodies alike.

Melding modern-day city vibes and awe-worthy ancient finds, this architectural hot spot will exceed your expectations.

From 1,700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town to Peristil Square and the soaring city views from atop Marjan Hill, I’ve got you covered in this post on the Best Things to do in Split, Croatia.

Tick off highlights like the Game of Thrones spots, the Cathedral of St. Domnius and the Temple of Jupiter. Get immersed in the artistry of the Ivan Meštrović Gallery and enjoy a cocktail along the seafront promenade, Riva.

Steeped in history and highlights aplenty, Split can also serve as a launching pad to the surrounding sites.

You can venture in practically any direction your heart desires, from Dubrovnik in the south and Zadar in the north to the array of idyllic islands and sublime national parks.

This laid-back landscape renders copious opportunities for a quick getaway from the city. Check out my detailed guide to the 12 Best Day Trips from Split.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Split:

• By car: 3.5 hours, depending on traffic & border delays. Rent a car here.

• By bus: 4 hours, depending on traffic. Get your bus tickets here.

• By ferry: 4-6 hours, depending on the route. Buy your ferry tickets here.

Kotor, Montenegro

Ditch the crowds of downtown Dubrovnik and embark on an exquisite escape to Montenegro. Sitting a short 2-hour drive from Dubrovnik, Montenegro is a pocket-sized country carved with magical streets, ancient attractions and glimmering waters.

Montenegro is one of the Adriatic’s most hypnotising hubs, exuding an eclectic array of Roman, Turkish, Austrian and Venetian influences. Brimming with a breadth of monuments and remnants, the region inculcates a coalescing character.

Fringed with fjord-like bays, sleepy villages and soaring limestone mountains, this escape oozes enchanting. Anchoring the southeastern corner is the Old Town of Kotor; you’ll encounter encapsulating medieval architecture. Take the plunge into the Adriatic Sea, bury your feet in the white-pebbled bays and spend the afternoon sampling the cuisine.

Some day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro offer stops at Kotor Bay (Boka Bay), Skadar Lake, Tara River Canyon, Kotor, Durmitor, and Budva, a medieval beach town. Whatever your pick, you’ll find opportunities for swimming, hiking, skiing, rafting and mountain biking.

On this day tour departing from Dubrovnik, you can visit UNESCO-Listed Kotor Bay and the Old Town, the villages of Verige, Risan and Perast, and Our Lady of the Rocks Island and enjoy a cruise down the Montenegro coastline. 

Immerse yourself in the spectacle of magnificent churches, awe-worthy architecture, a buzzing local scene and the deep history embedded within every corner of this country. Montenegro is one of the top-rated day trips from Dubrovnik and one you shouldn’t miss.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Montenegro: This tour takes 11 hours but includes the boat transfer, a local guide, and various stops throughout the country.

Korcula

Suffuse yourself in the sublime sights and crystal clear waters of captivating Korcula Island.

Dotted with dense forests, Korcula encompasses a rich natural scene sure to have you feeling like you’re in a fairytale. Navigate the millennia-old Mediterranean flora and get lost in the island’s pine-dominated forests.

With secluded, serene beaches and a scope of coves to discover, Korcula is decked out with suitable scenery to hit the sweet spot of everyone’s preferences.

History aficionados, you will not be disappointed! Korcula’s Old Town is nestled amongst a net of narrow alleyways, ancient finds and hidden gems. Edifices framed by flowers and colourful pot plants paint the Medieval town with a quirky character.

Stop by St. Mark’s Cathedral to hear the iconic bell tower, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pebbled beaches and spend a summer evening seeing the traditional moreška sword dance.

From the dramatic forests and the utopia-like beachfront to the wineries and gourmet food scene, this island boasts many Reasons Why You Should Visit Korcula, Croatia.

You can reach Korcula via a 2.5-hour catamaran ride in the peak season. Otherwise, you can take a 2-hour drive to Orebić and catch a 20-minute ferry ride.

This day tour invites you to an idyllic island like no other. From the panoramic vistas of the Pelješac Peninsula, this trip takes you to Ston and through the narrow streets and gems in this medieval city.

This day trip from Dubrovnik also includes visiting a local winery, with wine and brandy tasting to top it all off.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Korcula: This tour takes a total of 10 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport in an air-conditioned minivan, a professional tour guide and a wine tasting.

Bosnia & Herzegovina

If you’re looking for history, culture and quaint village vibes, this is one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik. Scattered with scars from its intriguing past, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Mostar is nothing short of a cultural melting pot.

Situated 130 km from Dubrovnik, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s history-ridden hot spot hones in on Ottoman and Venetian influences. Split into two thanks to the Neretva River, the eastern end is etched with Muslim finds, while the western end is inhabited mainly by Catholic Croatians.

Uncover the depths of unrivalled Bosnia & Herzegovina with this day tour from Dubrovnik. Voyage through the vast stretch of medieval Mostar and marvel at the notorious Old Bridge, each having operated over unfathomable periods. The landscape here truly conjures up all those fairytale feelings.

This top-rated day trip takes you along the Adriatic Coast into Neum, where you can enjoy a refreshing coffee before strolling the streets at your own pace. The tour then continues further inland to the picturesque Pocitelj, where you can follow a blind impulse and dawdle amongst the delightful landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The final stop of Mostar mixes Moorish, Muslim and Christian influences, evoking a distinctive display not to be mimicked elsewhere. Mostar is undoubtedly one of the best day trip destinations outside of Dubrovnik, Croatia!

Distance from Dubrovnik to Bosnia & Herzegovina: 10 hours in total, including round-trip transportation and pick-up and drop-off from your Dubrovnik hotel. The ticket includes live commentary in English and a guided tour of Mostar.

Elaphiti Islands 

Croatia’s Elaphiti Islands are teeming with natural wonders, sure to rank your trajectory through the archipelago as one of the most captivating experiences.

If island hopping and sailing the Adriatic Sea sounds like your cup of tea, you won’t want to miss this. The Elaphiti Islands are a short boat ride from Gruz, the main port area in Dubrovnik.

If you’re on the hunt for unique things to do near Dubrovnik, you won’t want to miss a tour around these fourteen idyllic islands and islets.

Sitting just off the cusp of the Croatian coastline, the Elaphiti Islands proffer fewer tourists and more authentic insight into the country’s rich culture. This alluring archipelago is arrayed with 13 islands, each brimming with bliss-inducing beaches, quiet villages and lush vegetation.

From wine tasting paired with freshly caught seafood to swimming in caves and simply soaking up the sunshine, a day trip spent island hopping through the Elaphiti archipelago is precisely what you need. Most sailing trips from Dubrovnik stop at highlights such as Koločep, Šipan, Lopud and Šunj Beach.

This full-day trip from Dubrovnik hones in on the handful of highlights. Kicking off in the pine-fringed fisherman’s village of Koločep, the cruise then sails to Suđurađ on the island of Šipan.

Finally, looping around to Lopud, you’ll glimpse the island’s extensive naval background as you wander through the Franciscan Monastery, the Gjorgic-Mayneri Park, and Lopud Bay.

Watch the day tick by as you swim, snorkel and sunbathe your time away on the stretch of sandy beaches. To top it all off, the day trip includes a fabulous menu (vegetarian, meat, fish and children’s options), drinks and wines. The Elaphiti Islands are one of the most idyllic day trips from Dubrovnik!

Distance from Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands: 1.5 hours via car ferry.

Cavtat 

Cavtat is a quaint Croatian town that’s often overlooked by the opulence in dazzling Dubrovnik… If you’ve sparked the desire to dive into Croatia's more local, coastal charm, this village is a quintessential experience.

Snuggled between the misty mountain ranges and a picture-perfect harbour, Cavtat is only a half-hour’s drive from Dubrovnik. Additionally, you could consider boarding a local water taxi from Dubrovnik for a more scenic route.

Teeming with terracotta-tiled roofs, white stone buildings and turquoise-sea views, this gem is painted with plentiful pursuits. Soak up the serenity, walk through the cobbled streets and see Vlaho Bukovac’s paintings dotted around town.

Located on the southern peninsula, Cavtat is home to two harbours, a waterfront, beautiful beaches and heaving hills that boast striking sights overlooking the coastal town. Stop by Rector’s Palace (Knezev Dvor), swing through the Racic Mausoleum and try your luck kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

This half-day tour from Dubrovnik dives into the local side of Cavtat with a customised private tour.

Taking you through Cavtat Old Town before stopping off for brunch at a local eatery, the tour finishes at the steep Konavle cliffs, offering diametrically opposing views peering down to the Adriatic Sea. Cavtat is the ultimate day trip from Dubrovnik for those seeking more serenity and scenery.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Cavtat: A 30-minute bus ride.

Mljet National Park 

For all you ardent advocates of adventure, Mljet National Park is a piece of paradise you won’t be able to resist. This Croatian national park is a true nature lover’s delight, making it one of the most paradisal day trips from Dubrovnik. Nestled within the western domain of the island are two saltwater lakes, pinned as the Big Lake and Small Lake.

The Mljet National Park offers opportunities for hiking, bike adventures, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and canoeing. There’s even an 800-year-old Benedictine monastery on the island of St Mary!

Woven with thick woodlands, pine-covered hilltops and turquoise-hued lakes, this gem is a must-see if you want to visit Croatia.

Mljet is fringed with two major focal points: the interconnected saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero (Bif Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). Whether you want to bike on two wheels, stroll on your own two feet, or act like a fish and swim the day away, there’s something special here for you.

If you’re searching for day trips from Dubrovnik to Mljet, this full-day tour poses many of the most riveting scenes in the Mljet National Park.

Disembarking on the boat ride to explore the realms of Polace and Pristanište before taking a stroll through the park, the guided tour then weaves through both the Big and Small Lake, touching on the island’s exciting background.

After checking out St Mary’s Benedictine Monastery and the surrounding serene scenery, you’ll get the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch menu before heading out on your own to swim, snorkel, or indulge in whatever you so well please.

If you’re contemplating a nature-immersive day away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, this is one of the top day trips from Dubrovnik.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Mljet National Park: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes; however, timetables are complicated and are not frequent. An organised tour is the most efficient way to get to the Mljet National Park from Dubrovnik.

Pelješac Peninsula

On the hunt for a laidback day tour from Dubrovnik? Look no further than the Pelješac Peninsula! This picturesque peninsula winds its way around ample, authentic towns placed on the Adriatic Sea's cusp. Just a 60- to 90-minute drive from Dubrovnik, you can dabble in the dazzling delights of Dalmatia’s largest coastline.

Along the glimmering Croatian coastline, you’ll encounter medieval walls in Ston, various vineyards, seafood samples aplenty and sandy beaches in Orebić. Navigate the patchwork of farms, discover the flourishing grapevines and get immersed in the colourful collection of fig, almond and lemon trees.

Relish your taste buds in the flavours of Ston’s seafood scene, swim at the sparkling Blue Flag beaches and get your heart rate up on a 4-hour hike up Mount Ilija. You could even consider combining this gem with a day trip to Korcula. A handful of boats depart from Orebić each day, so if you’re keen to hit two birds with one stone, this could be your best bet.

Check out this half-day trip to the Pelješac Peninsula, providing a rare opportunity to sample the southern-situated region’s renowned Dalmatian wine scene. This wine-tasting tour incorporates a visit to three rural wineries and the town of Ston.

Gain insight into the intricacies of the wine-making process, along with a fair few samples to satisfy your senses. Topped with a round-trip transfer and a local wine expert, this is easily the best day trip from Dubrovnik if you’re a wine-lover…

Distance from Dubrovnik to the Pelješac Peninsula: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It can be challenging to find regular buses, so hopping on a guided tour is the most convenient way of exploring the Pelješac Peninsula.

Budva, Montenegro  

Situated along the southern stretch of the Montenegro coastline, Budva purveys a palpable sense of a stellar seaside sojourn. Budva boasts one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro! The city’s compact Old Town is pervaded by Venetian homes and charming churches, juxtaposed with a postcard-worthy, blissful beachfront.

This full-day trip from Dubrovnik casts light on Montenegro’s historical hot spots, cultural gems and natural splendour spotting the landscape.

The tour takes you through Župa Dubrovačka and the Konavle region in Croatia before entering the picturesque panoramas displayed on the Montenegro coastline.

This incredible day trip invites you into the Boka Kotorska Bay, the quaint town of Perast and the island of Our Lady of the Rocks whilst you dive into the region’s historical and cultural background.

Explore the streets of Kotor on your own before proceeding to your final stop, Budva.

From there, you can dabble in the options on offer. From sightseeing tours to the city centre and the myriad of marvellous sandy beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of. Budva is a worthwhile place for a day trip outside of Croatia!

Distance from Dubrovnik to Budva: Around 2.5 hours via bus.

Kravice Waterfalls

If you want to escape the scorching summer heat, this gem is an absolute haven in the warmer months. Formerly known as Kravica Waterfalls, this refreshing getaway offers a gateway to godsend.

If your idea of the perfect day trip involves lush greenery and trickling water, this plunge-worthy spot sits high up in the ranks. Situated about a 2.5-hour drive from Dubrovnik, Kravice Waterfalls is painted with emerald-hued pools and whitewashed cascades. This gem is often included as a stop on many day trips to Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina, but in all honesty, it deserves a day trip all on its own.

Burrowed in neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina, the natural wonders within the Kravice Waterfalls paint one of the most iconic scenes on display within the country. The cascades of the Trebižat River and its verdant surroundings make for a breathtaking day trip from Dubrovnik. Escape the summer heat and take a dip in the plethora of pools and falls fringing the forest.

If you want to see the falls gushing at their fullest, the best time to visit is during the spring and early summer. Tumbling over 25-metre-high moss-fringed limestone cliffs, you can swim, splash and stroll to your liking. If you find the water chilly, opt for a kayaking experience or a picnic on the shore.

This full-day tour from Dubrovnik to Kravice Waterfalls is drenched in all the highlights. From the opulent, oriental side of Mostar, you can enjoy a tour through the magnitude of mosques and its famous Old Bridge and dive into the rich cultural diversity on offer. After catching a glimpse at the Eastern and Western influences threaded throughout the city, you can stop off at Kravice Waterfalls for a refreshing dip.

The entrance fee for Kravica Nature Park is about 20 KM (around €10), including access to Kravica Nature Park for the whole day. Open for swimming from May to October; you can reach the falls within a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. Simply follow the sign-posted dirt track, pay the fee to enter and get exploring!

Distance from Dubrovnik to the Kravice Waterfalls: Around 2.5 hours by car.

Ston

The Pelješac Peninsula is home to a real gem indeed. Ston is a village rendering one of the most authentic experiences on offer along the Croatian coastline.

From the Ston Walls and Fort Kastio to the salt flats and famous oysters and seafood scene, there’s a little something for foodies and history nuts alike!

Ston is easily one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik for those looking to escape the big crowds!

Check out this full-day tour from Dubrovnik, which integrates a handful of Croatian hot spots. From discovering the island of Korcula amongst a volume of verdant islets, the tour includes a scenic visit to Ston. You’ll have the opportunity to drive through the panoramic Pelješac Peninsula, stop at the salt flats and city walls, sample some famous wines and dive into the town’s history.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Ston: Under one hour by car.

Konavle Valley

Purported as the most prominent panoramic landscape within the southern stretch of the country, there’s no doubt that Konavle Valley makes for a great day trip out of Dubrovnik. This place is indisputably a nature lover's haven, boasting awe-worthy vistas of rocky cliffs, misty mountain tops, and dense forests.

The principal route follows the flowing River Ljuta, winding through bucolic towns and rural hamlets, leading to striking sights looking out to the Adriatic Sea and Sniježnica Mountain. Check out this half-day trip from Dubrovnik to the Croatian countryside.

From the rolling realms of the River Ljuta and soaring Sokol Tower to tasting traditional wines at a local, family-run winery, this is an excellent tour for those looking for something a little off-the-beaten-track.

Distance from Dubrovnik to the Konavle Valley: 15-20 minutes by car

Sarajevo

As the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo hosts an extensive ensemble of enticing cultural and historical spots.

From the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque to the old bazaar of Sarajevo in Baščaršija, this unique part of the world offers a one-of-a-kind experience, and better yet, it’s just on Croatia’s doorstep.

Take a look at this full-day trip from Dubrovnik and immerse yourself in Sarajevo’s ample array of religious and historical gems.

Pass through Neum, Pocitelj, Mostar and Jablanica before discovering the biggest attractions.

After exploring the fusion of mixed architectural styles in the Bascarsija Bazaar, the Latin Bridge and Sarajevo Roses, you’ll be left to stroll through the sights at your own pace. Grab a traditional coffee and a bite before returning to Dubrovnik.

This is a top-rated day trip destination, especially for those looking to get a taste of another country’s cultural and historical hot spots.

Distance from Dubrovnik to Sarajevo: 4.5 hours by car.

How to Get Around Dubrovnik

The vast majority of the aforementioned day trips from Dubrovnik can be done by public transport. However, it’s worth considering renting a car.

By hiring a car in Dubrovnik, you’ll not only have control of your own schedule, you’ll additionally have the ability to travel at your own pace, making stops here and there and staying in places for more or less time than initially planned. Getting your own set of four wheels is the ultimate step up for your own flexibility and independence.

• Compare the best rates to rent a car in Dubrovnik here.

• Get the most reliable bus services in Dubrovnik here.

• Compare buses, trains and flights from Dubrovnik here.

*Do keep in mind that during peak season (June to August), traffic jams run ravage throughout Croatia. That being said, it’s always best to schedule a little extra time in case of any mishaps. To put it into perspective, we were stuck in a traffic jam for 4 hours…

FAQS

What day trips are good from Dubrovnik?

There are many possibilities for day trips from Dubrovnik. Some of the most popular are Lokrum, Cavtat, Ston, Korcula and Mljet National Park.

Can you do day trips from Dubrovnik?

Given its geographical position on Croatia's east coast, Dubrovnik offers various diverse day trips. From the islands to the hilltops, there’s plenty to choose from.

How many days in Dubrovnik is enough?

Two days are ideal if you want to sightsee in the city, but 4 to 5 days are recommended if you want to enjoy day trips.

Can you go island hopping from Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik offers plenty of island hopping experiences, including destinations like Lastovo, Hvar, Mljet and Korcula.

The magnitude of Dubrovnik’s nearby, dream-like destinations showcases the natural splendour on offer in this part of Europe. From sailing tours through cobalt blue waters to the terracotta-tiled towns and pine-covered mountain peaks, many top-rated day trips are on offer. History nuts, culture vultures, water-sports aficionados, avid hikers, beach bums and passionate foodies will surely be satisfied.

If you want to dive further, check out this in-depth guide on How to Plan a Trip to Croatia.

This stunning coastal city in Croatia hones in on a huge haul of opportunities to discover the surrounding regions, so be sure not to miss out on the best day trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia. Which destination are you planning on visiting?