Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik: Hidden Gems Beyond the City Walls – Travel Dudes

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik: Hidden Gems Beyond the City Walls – Travel Dudes

Dubrovnik, with its ancient city walls and shimmering Adriatic coastline, is a destination that captivates travelers from the moment they set foot within its medieval streets. But while the “Pearl of the Adriatic” has an abundance of historical and cultural treasures, its surroundings are just as mesmerizing.

Beyond Dubrovnik lies a world of hidden gems, charming coastal towns, serene islands, and picturesque landscapes, each offering a unique escape for day-trippers. If you find yourself in this captivating city, don’t limit yourself to the Old Town – embark on these unforgettable day trips that will enrich your Dubrovnik experience.

Here are the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Here’s an overview:

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

While there are plenty of things to do in Dubrovnik, we highly recommend planning at least one trip to the outside areas. Here are a few top choices when deciding which day trip from Dubrovnik to book!

The Charming Seaside Town of Cavtat

A short drive or scenic boat ride from Dubrovnik brings you to the delightful town of Cavtat, often described as a quieter, more laid-back version of its bustling neighbor. Nestled on the southernmost tip of Croatia, Cavtat’s tranquil harbor is the perfect place to unwind and take in stunning views of the Adriatic.

Stroll along its charming waterfront, lined with palm trees and centuries-old architecture, or explore its narrow streets filled with quaint cafes, shops, and art galleries.

Cavtat is a great place if you want to explore the beautiful beaches, such as Beach Rat, Ključice or Žal. A must-visit location is also the Sustjepan Peninsula, which is perfect for nature lovers. The Sustjepan Peninsula is a particularly valuable landscape where you can also find a nice peaceful beach and a beautiful viewpoint that overlooks the Cavtat area.

History buffs will enjoy visiting the Mausoleum of the Račić Family, an impressive work of Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović. Cavtat is also the birthplace of Vlaho Bukovac, one of Croatia’s most celebrated painters, and you can explore his family home, now a museum. This coastal gem is a peaceful retreat where time slows down, making it the ideal day trip for those seeking a relaxing escape.

Tour: Visit Dubrovnik Old Town, Cavtat and Konavle countryside

Discover Dubrovnik’s Old Town on a guided walking tour, followed by free time to explore on your own before heading to Srdj Mountain for breathtaking views.

Continue south to Konavle for a visit to a historic family estate with local treats and a live watermill demonstration. End the tour with a stroll through the charming town of Cavtat, visiting the beautiful Our Lady of the Snow church.

Price: €214.00 (per person)

Duration: 8 hours

Transport, licensed tour guide, Djivanovic family watermill demonstration and tasting and port entrance fee included.

Book this tour now!

Island Getaway to Lokrum

Just a short 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the lush island of Lokrum offers an enchanting getaway for nature lovers. Steeped in history and legend, Lokrum has been inhabited since ancient times, and local lore tells of Richard the Lionheart finding refuge here after a shipwreck. The island is a nature reserve, home to botanical gardens, exotic peacocks, and ancient ruins.

As you wander through Lokrum’s shaded pathways, you’ll come across the Benedictine Monastery, a peaceful spot surrounded by centuries-old olive trees. Take a dip in the island’s pristine waters, or float in the small saltwater lake known as the Dead Sea, offering a unique swimming experience. Lokrum’s serene beauty and proximity to Dubrovnik make it a must-visit for a refreshing day in nature, far from the city crowds.

Lokrum Island played a key role in bringing the world of Game of Thrones to life. In the series, Lokrum was used as a filming location for the mystical city of Qarth during season two. Its lush greenery, ancient ruins, and stunning coastline made it the perfect backdrop for this exotic trading city.

Fans can explore the island’s natural beauty while walking in the footsteps of their favorite characters, imagining the intrigue and drama that unfolded in this setting.

Tour: Epic GoT and Lokrum Island Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in Westeros with our 3-hour GoT & Lokrum Island Walking Tour, exploring iconic filming locations in Dubrovnik’s Old Town and Fort St. Lawrence. Capture a photo on the replica Iron Throne before visiting the enchanting Lokrum Island.

Note: Fort entrance and ship tickets are not included.

Price: €35.00 (per person)

Duration: 3 hours

Guided walking tour, visit to GoT filming locations, free photo opportunity, exploration of Lokrum Island and insights and stories from local guides included.

Book this tour now!

Stunning Coastal Views and Mount Srđ

For those who want to see Dubrovnik from a different angle, a visit to Mount Srđ is a must. This mountain, towering above the city, offers unbeatable panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s iconic red rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and the Elaphiti Islands scattered in the distance.

You can reach the summit via a cable car ride that provides breathtaking views, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up the trails that wind through the rugged landscape.

At the top of Mount Srđ, you’ll find the Fort Imperial, which played a significant role in the defense of Dubrovnik during the Croatian War of Independence. The fort now houses a museum, offering insight into this important period of history.

After exploring the fort, enjoy a meal or a drink at the mountaintop restaurant, where you can take in the unparalleled views of the city and coastline below.

Cruise Along the Elaphiti Islands

The Elaphiti Islands, a cluster of idyllic islands just off the coast of Dubrovnik, offer the perfect escape for a day of island hopping. The biggest islands of the cluster – Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan – each have their own unique charm and are easily accessible by boat from Dubrovnik.

Koločep is a peaceful, car-free island with lush pine forests, perfect for a quiet retreat. The more developed Lopud is home to stunning sandy beaches, including the famous Šunj Beach, where the shallow waters and soft sand make it ideal for a relaxing swim.

Šipan, the largest of the Elaphiti Islands, is known for its olive groves, vineyards, and historical sites, including old churches and summer homes of Dubrovnik’s noble families.

A boat trip through these islands offers a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, swim in secluded bays, and explore the laid-back island lifestyle that seems a world away from the busy streets of Dubrovnik.

Vineyards and Seaside Charm: Pelješac Peninsula

A scenic drive north from Dubrovnik will take you to the stunning Pelješac Peninsula, a destination known for its rugged beauty, charming villages, and exceptional wine. Pelješac is one of Croatia’s premier wine regions, with sprawling vineyards producing some of the country’s best red wines, especially the famous Plavac Mali variety.

Spend the day exploring the peninsula’s wineries, where you can sample locally produced wines paired with delicious Dalmatian food. The journey itself is breathtaking, with the road winding along the coastline, offering views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea and the lush hillsides.

Along the way, stop at the medieval town of Ston. The town offers some very interesting sights, such as the world’s second longest defensive walls and the Old Salt Factory. Foodies can also try the delicious combination of oysters, salt and local wine!

Related read: Beyond Dubrovnik: The Seafood Mecca of Ston

A visit to Pelješac provides a perfect combination of coastal beauty, history, and gastronomic delights, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking a true taste of Croatia.

Tour: Premium Wine Tour on the Magnificent Peljesac

Experience the best red wines of the Peljesac Peninsula on a guided tour with a local expert, visiting a premium winery, a small family-owned winery, and enjoying an outdoor oyster and sparkling wine pairing. Learn about the region’s top wines and discover local food delicacies that complement them perfectly.

Price: 350,00 EUR (per person)

Duration: 9 hours

Transport, boat oyster picking, tasting of 8 quality wines, local eats and bottled water included.

Book this tour now!

Sail the Waters Around Dubrovnik

For a unique way to end your day, embark on a sunset boat tour from Dubrovnik. Cruising along the coast offers a different perspective of the city’s famous landmarks, from the towering walls of the Old Town to the picturesque islands.  

As the sun begins to set, the Adriatic becomes even more magical. A sunset cruise is the perfect way to end your day, with the golden light reflecting off the calm waters and the city of Dubrovnik glowing in the distance. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a romantic moment, watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a boat is an unforgettable experience.

Tour: Private Dubrovnik Sunset Boat Tour

For a romantic and unforgettable experience in Dubrovnik, join this sunset boat tour on a luxury speedboat, perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers. Meet your skipper in the Old Town Port and set sail for a film-worthy evening on the Adriatic.

Price: €299.00 (per group, 2-4 people)

Duration: 1.5 hours

Open bar and local drinks, luxury speed boat, local skippers, towels and blankets included

Book this tour!

Beyond Dubrovnik’s Walls: Endless Adventures Await

Dubrovnik’s allure extends far beyond its ancient streets and city walls. Whether you’re soaking up the tranquil atmosphere of Cavtat, exploring the lush islands of Lokrum and the Elaphiti, tasting fine wines on the Pelješac Peninsula, or cruising the Adriatic at sunset, these day trips will add new dimensions to your Croatian adventure.

Credit: Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik: Hidden Gems Beyond the City Walls – Travel Dudes