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The beautiful historic city of Dubrovnik in Croatia is an ideal stopover for any traveler, not only because of the beauty of its medieval architecture, but also because from here, you can conveniently explore many other attractions within just one day.
The beautiful historic city of Dubrovnik in Croatia is an ideal stopover for any traveler, not only because of the beauty of its medieval architecture, but also because from here, you can conveniently explore many other attractions within just one day.
Lokrum Island - a sunny garden oasis in the midst of the Adriatic Sea
Discover the charm of Lokrum island, just a 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik's Old Town. Escape the crowds and noise of Dubrovnik during peak seasons and enjoy a leisurely day exploring this tranquil retreat.
This small island, enveloped by pine trees, offers incredibly fresh air and is a perfect spot for basking in the warm Mediterranean sun, swimming, or strolling along winding paths. Walking through the lush botanical garden nestled in the heart of the island is a particularly delightful activity here.
The tourist area covers approximately 1 hectare, boasting around 500 plant species, mainly shrubs, and 200 species of cacti grown in greenhouses. The rest of the island is not subject to strict conservation measures.
Near the garden area lies a deserted Benedictine monastery dating back to 1023. The monastery showcases a blend of architectural styles from various renovation periods, including Romanesque-Gothic architecture from the 12th-13th centuries, as well as Gothic and Renaissance styles from the 15th century.
Cavtat – A Serene Town by the Sea
From Dubrovnik, hop on bus number 10, and within 10 minutes, you'll arrive at Cavtat – a tranquil seaside town with a picturesque harbor and peaceful cafés.
Here, you can also explore two famous medieval architectures of Dubrovnik: the Rector's Palace and the Racic Mausoleum, designed by the renowned sculptor Ivan Mestrovic. Ivo Racic was a distinguished sea captain who passed away in Zagreb in March 1918, shortly followed by the loss of his son and daughter. As per his wife's final wish, who also passed away a year later, the entire family was laid to rest together. The construction of the mausoleum, completed by Ivan Mestrovic after 2 years of construction, has been the resting place of the Racic family ever since. Inside the mausoleum hangs a bell that legend says, when you make a wish as it tolls, your wish will come true.
Elafiti Islands – Three Destinations in One Journey
Elafiti, a charming archipelago consisting of three main islands – Sipan, Lopud, and Kolocep – lies north of Dubrovnik, adorned with quaint villages, beaches, cafés, restaurants, and architectural wonders.
If you wish to visit all three islands in a day, book a boat tour through Viator. The 9-hour excursion will take you through each island, allowing ample time to explore, swim, and sunbathe at each stop. The tour includes a lunch of grilled fresh fish, wine, and live music performed by local bands.
Alternatively, you can opt for a different adventure with a sailing tour around the Elafiti Islands in Croatia. The itinerary is similar, but you'll sail on a large 16th-century sailing ship.
For those who prefer self-exploration, you can take the Jadrolinija ferry, which runs daily and will take you through the islands of Kolocep, Lopud, and finally Sudurad on Sipan. At the end of the day, the ferry will bring you back to the city.
Another option for exploring the three small islands in a day is the Nona Ana catamaran, although its schedule may not be suitable for day trips.
Mljet Island – Dubrovnik's Crystal Gem
This stunning and pristine island is a must-see destination for countless travelers visiting the historic city of Dubrovnik. It boasts a delicate, pure, and serene beauty with its beaches, nature reserves, and lush forests.
When traveling around the island, renting a bike is recommended to explore its predominantly forested terrain. To the west lies the National Park, home to the Veliko Lake (Big Lake) and Malo Lake (Small Lake), offering abundant wildlife and opportunities for adventurous exploration.
To reach Sobra, Mljet, the best way is to take the Nona Ana catamaran, which operates daily trips to the island. Every morning, Nona Ana sets sail from Dubrovnik to Sobra, returning in the late afternoon, with each journey lasting around 1 hour. This allows travelers to spend a day exploring the pristine natural landscapes and serene tranquility of Mljet.
During the summer months, this ferry also stops at Polace, situated amidst the national park, with a travel time from the city of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Jadrolinija ferry, but this may extend your itinerary to more than a day.
Peljesac Peninsula – Cliffside Villages Nestled among Rocks
The serene coastal towns along the stunning Mediterranean will captivate you when you arrive at the Peljesac Peninsula, just a bus or self-drive journey away from Dubrovnik. With a distance of over 100km, expect around a 2-hour drive.
The bus stops at Orebic, home to the world-famous stone walls that have stood for centuries, often likened to the Great Wall of Europe. Stretching over 5 km, this fortress wall is considered the longest complete fortification system in Europe. Surrounding the town of Ston on the Peljesac Peninsula, these walls are a marvel of ancient engineering.
Not only can you admire the breathtaking scenery, but you can also explore some of Croatia's most renowned wine-producing regions right here on the peninsula. Sample two of Croatia's finest wines, Postup and Dingac.
Viator also offers 6-hour tours to explore the Croatian peninsula for travelers who prefer not to arrange their own sightseeing itinerary, including wine tasting and delicious lunches in towns or villages on the peninsula.
Korcula – A Miniature Dubrovnik
From Orebic, there's a ferry to Korcula Island – often dubbed as a miniature Dubrovnik, with its ancient streets and stunning architectural marvels.
Korcula town is also the birthplace of the renowned explorer Marco Polo. You can either book a 10-hour tour with Viator to explore Korcula or travel from Dubrovnik by the Nona Ana boat (only operating in July and August, a few days a week). Each journey takes 2.5 hours in the morning and returns at 4 pm.
If you combine a visit to the Peljesac Peninsula, the ferry ride from Orebic takes only 20 minutes.
To fully immerse yourself in the charming beauty of Korcula, take a leisurely stroll. You'll never get lost in the lovely narrow streets of the island. Moreover, the locals are incredibly friendly and hospitable, treating you like family when you visit. Enjoy meals in cozy and welcoming settings, and wander through the clean and tidy alleys of the island to admire the ancient architectural wonders here.
Posted by: Phuong Nguyen Duy
Keywords: Day trips from Dubrovnik
