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Dubrovnik is an absolutely stunning city in the country of Croatia, and well worth your time. With unforgettable scenery, charming streets, a rich history and impressive city walls, you will want to take your time and enjoy all it has to offer. I love wandering after dark and exploring the narrow lanes. After you are done exploring the city though, you may want to stay a few extra days as there are a multitude of amazing day trips to choose from. Stunning islands, breathtaking bays, characteristic towns and unforgettable waterfalls are all within a couple of hours of Dubrovnik. Take some time to experience the areas outside the busy city of Dubrovnik. Here are a few of the top choices:
Lokrum Island:
A short boat ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a nature reserve with botanical gardens, walking trails, and the ruins of a Benedictine monastery. There are natural swimming spots as well to explore. One you will want to try is the salty “dead sea”. If you are a “Game of Thrones” fan you will definitely want to check out Lokrum Island as it was used for filming. From Dubrovnik’s old port, the ferry only takes about 15 minutes and runs multiple times per hour. If you are feeling more adventurous, consider kayaking over to the island.
Elaphiti Islands:
Sail away to the Elaphiti Islands for a day of sun, sea, and relaxation. These islands offer serene beaches and a tranquil escape from the bustling city. You can take a ferry from Dubrovnik if you only want to see one island. If you want to see more islands in a day, it would be best to book an organized tour. Most tours will take you to Lopud, Sipan and Kolocep. You will experience sandy beaches, cute villages, citrus gardens and great swimming.
Mljet:
Mljet is another island that is absolutely worth your time. It is the greenest island with crystal clear waters and sandy shorelines and contains Mljet national park. Covered with a Mediterranean forest, this unspoiled island is considered one of Croatia’s prettiest islands. It is well known for its two salt water lakes located on the north side of the island. The larger lake (Veliko Jezero) has a small island which contains a 12th century Benedictine monastery. You will want to visit this island if you want to completely get away and unwind or if you love outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, biking or kayaking. To get there, you can take one of the fast ferry lines that go from Dubrovnik to either Sobra, Polace, or Pomena ferry ports. Pomena is the nearest port of arrival to Mljet National Park. Depending on the season, these fast ferries run from one to several times per day. The journey lasts for 1 to 1,5 hours, depending on the route. Once on Mljet there are busses that can take you all over the island. It may be easier, however to book a tour so you don’t have to worry about ferry schedules and bus routes.
Kotor Montenegro
Kotor is a charming town in the stunningly beautiful and UNESCO world heritage site of the Bay of Kotor. An absolute must when in the area is to climb to the top of the fortress for the incredible views of the bay and the town below. Get lost in the characteristic old town, step inside St. Nicholas church and St. Tryphon’s cathedral, and shop at the town market for a wonderfully unforgettable day. If you have a car, Kotor is a 2 hour drive from Dubrovnik. If you don’t have a car, an organized tour is a good way to go. Remember, this is a different country so you will have border crossings.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is another wonderful day trip from Dubrovnik. Having your own car or booking a guided tour are going to be the best options for exploring this neighboring country. Again, you will be crossing borders so be prepared. Mostar is a 2 hour drive from Dubrovnik and is an absolute gem. It is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the country’s most visited destinations for a reason. With its stunning bridge spanning the river, minarets playing the call to prayer and characteristic old town that has the feel of a Turkish bazaar, you will not soon forget your day here. There is usually someone jumping off the bridge, into the river. They play it up, asking for money before they jump. I think we waited for over 10 minutes before he finally took the plunge. Mostar still has the scars of the war during the 1990s. I remember walking by numerous buildings with damage from shells and bullets. Read up on the history before you go so you can appreciate what this remarkable city has been through. On your way to or from Mostar stop at Kravice waterfalls. This 25 meter high waterfall is breathtaking. There is a fee to enter the park. Once parked there are several paths ranging in difficulty to take you to the waterfall where you can admire the beauty or go for a swim at the base of the waterfall. There is also a mini train ride that takes you to the base of the waterfall if you don’t want to walk.
From the beauty of the Elaphiti Islands to the grand landscapes of Montenegro and the storied past of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, each of these day trips promise a unique and enriching experience. Whether you seek sun-soaked beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites, or a glimpse into the region's complex history, you will not be disappointed . These day trips not only offer a respite from the bustling city but also provide an opportunity to witness the diverse facets of the Adriatic's treasures, leaving visitors with enduring memories.
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