It is almost impossible to get enough of Dubrovnik. There will always be parts of the old city walls that you haven’t discovered yet, or hidden gems tucked behind the winding alleys. Perhaps there’s a secluded beach you haven’t been to yet?
However, this majestic Croatian city’s location by the Adriatic coast and accessibility to some of the most interesting locales make it an ideal base to explore.
Around and within Croatia, to some irresistible cities in the Balkans, there are countless options on how to spend a day away from one of Croatia’s most beautiful cities. So here’s a list of the best day trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia.
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10 Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik
1. Mljet Island
Mljet Island’s proximity and accessibility from one of Croatia’s most beautiful city makes it an ideal day trip from Dubrovnik.
Easily reached by a catamaran ride, Mljet is a lush green island where most of it comprises one of Dubrovnik’s best national parks.
The Mljet National Parks boasts of stunning lakes, lush forestry, and diverse wildlife. The island also has pristine beaches that are either rocky or sandy, but all the same, takes pride in its scenery and crystal blue waters.
While in Mljet, be sure to also visit the adjacent St.Mary’s Island that’s home to a picturesque Benedictine monastery.
To book, click here.
If you’re in Dubrovnik and looking to try Croatia’s wine, there’s a region not far from this old city that’s a must-visit.
The scenic Konavle Valley is the ideal day tour from Dubrovnik — with its lush vineyards, well-stocked cellars and wineries and some of the most magnificent sights you can enjoy while sipping wine.
From here, you get excellent views of karst mountains in the north, as well as green valleys spread with vineyards, makeup Konavle’s gorgeous landscapes.
There’s a lot of wine varieties to try, such as international ones like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, as well as the local Marastina and Dubrovacka Malvasija.
As there’s alcohol involved in this tour, it is recommended to hire a car (chauffeured) or join a group tour as the area has strict DUI laws.
To book, click here.
3. Split
Another Croatian city that’s easily reached from Dubrovnik is Split, strategically set between the mountain and the sea.
This ancient city is centered on the massive Diocletian’s Palace, a stunning 1,700-year-old complex built by the legendary Roman Emperor Diocletian in 3rd century A. D.
This area is like a living museum, with cafes, restaurants, and shops housed within its walls but retaining the old-world vibe.
Aside from this palace, Split’s old town is also a must-visit as it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be sure to check out the Cathedral of St. Domnius; the Palace’s central square; the impressive palace gate and the Temple of Jupiter.
Split also has a vibrant art scene and a must-visit is the glorious Ivan Meštrović Gallery. If you have more time, there’s also the Marjan Forest Park and Marjan Stairway, and the Riva, the seafront promenade that’s a great place to see the sunset or spend the evenings.
To book, click here.
4. Elaphite Islands
The Elaphite Islands is composed of 13 islands, but only 3 of them are inhabited. These islands are Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan which are also the largest in the archipelago.
Easily reached by boat from the ancient city, these three islands are easily among the best day tours from Dubrovnik.
Stroll along the quiet beaches, which are pristine and boasts of the crystalline waters the Adriatic is known for. There are also a variety of activities on offer in these islands such as hiking, cycling, diving, swimming, and snorkeling.
To book, click here.
5. Mostar, Bosnia
A Dubrovnik day trip that takes you across the border, leads to the scenic Mostar in Bosnia-Herzegovina. This city may still have evidence of its tumultuous past left, but nobody can resist the allure of its fascinating culture and sobering history.
Mostar is also a UNESCO World Heritage City, a well-deserved title as there’s picture-perfect scenery everywhere you look. Stroll along the cobbled streets of its charming old town, cross the historic Old Bridge (Stari Most), walk along the banks of the picturesque Neretva River, and admire Mostar old town’s historic buildings.
Be sure to also see the Mosque of Mostar; and the Old Bazaar, if you want to shop for local crafts and souvenirs or rest while sipping Turkish coffee.
To book, click here.
6. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia’s turbulent history may still be evident in most parts, especially in the Sarajevo or the coastal gem that is Neum, but this is also what makes this country a fascinating place to visit. A great day trip from Dubrovnik whether you’re into history or simply want to be in a scarred yet beautiful country that’s slowly but surely recovering, then Bosnia is a must.
Check out the bridges, both beautiful and ironic in their purpose, what they symbolize and what they have witnessed especially during the wars. Stroll along with old towns and city squares and marvel at the old structures.
In Sarajevo, there’s the Bascarsija, the pretty bohemian quarter with market stalls and bazaars that sell Bosnian souvenirs like a coffee maker that looks like an art piece. Check out the City Hall which looks like a cake, see the Sarajevo Bobsled Track or walk through the Sarajevo Tunnel.
To book, click here.
7. Korčula
Korčula is both a beautiful island and a fascinating old town, which is often called Little Dubrovnik. It is also known as the birthplace of explorer Marco Polo and regarded as among the best places to visit in Croatia for its pristine beaches and diverse landscapes.
Easily reached via catamaran, Korčula is one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik. Check out the hidden bays or spend hours on the pristine beaches.
Walk along the narrow old alleys in the old town and soak up the local culture. Marvel at the stunning architecture, or rent a bicycle and cruise through quaint villages and interesting towns like Orebić.
Visit the scenic the countryside and explore vineyards, olive groves, and pines. During summer, you may even catch a performance of the moreška sword dance, which is performed for tourists in the evening.
To book, click here.
8. Kotor
An excellent Dubrovnik day trip that takes you to the Balkans, the stunning city of Kotor in Montenegro is something you must experience. Be sure to visit the Old Town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site and among the best in the Balkan region.
There’s just a lot to see here, such as the magnificent Church of St. Luke and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, which are both in the heart of Kotor. There’s also the delightful Cat Museum and the Trg of Oruzja or Arms Square, or you may want to walk along the City Walls.
If you’re up for a hike up a crazy number of stairs then go up the stunning Castle Of San Giovanni. It offers unparalleled views over Kotor so the 1,350 steps are definitely worth it.
To book, click here.
9. Game of Thrones Experience
Not quite over Game Of Thrones yet? An ideal excursion for you would be a day tour from Dubrovnik that takes you to some if not all of the locations where the hit fantasy TV series was filmed.
Relive some of the most iconic or memorable scenes by visiting places in both Dubrovnik and Split that served as parts of the Seven Kingdoms, or as a backdrop to some unforgettable moments.
There’s Dubrovnik’s old town as the show’s King’s Landing, its streets as the setting for scenes like the walk of shame, the Trsteno Arboretum, Trsteno where notable conversations happened, the Diocletian’s Palace in Split where Daenerys trained her dragons, and Klis Fortress where she overthrows one of the slave cities.
To book, click here.
10. Peljesac Peninsula
The Peljesac Peninsula is just across from Korčula, and more than an hour away by car from Dubrovnik. It is the largest peninsula in Dalmatia and known not just as a great day trip from Dubrovnik bit also as a haven for foodies.
Peljesac is sparsely populated, and most of it is comprised of farms, vineyards, and orchards that either has almond, fig or lemon trees.
Be sure to enjoy some oysters and shellfish in the tiny town of Stan, see the historic monastery Our Lady of the Angels, hike up Mt. Ilija; or swim in aby of the peninsula’s pristine Blue Flag beaches.
To book, click here.
