The best day trips from Dubrovnik

Planning to visit Dubrovnik? Discover the best day trips from Dubrovnik, including tranquil Croatian islands, visits to National Parks, winery tours, and some of the Balkans’ most beautiful cities.

Dubrovnik, often dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is renowned for its stunning architecture, historic city walls, and breath-taking views of the Adriatic Sea. While the city itself offers an abundance of attractions, from wandering the charming Old Town to soaking in the sun at Banje Beach, it also serves as a fantastic base for exploring the wider region.

Beyond Dubrovnik’s walls lies a treasure trove of destinations in Croatia and the Balkans. There are plenty of great day trips from Dubrovnik, not only to other Croatian islands, but also to neighbouring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro.

In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best places to visit near Dubrovnik. All of these destinations are accessible from the city and are the perfect addition to your Balkans adventure. I’ve included information on how to get there, along with some guided tour recommendations. Let’s jump in!

Disclaimer: This blog post features some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase. There’s no extra cost to you but it just helps me to keep writing these free guides and itineraries for my readers. Thank you for your support!

Planning your trip to Dubrovnik

Before we get to the best day trips from Dubrovnik here’s some practical information and first-hand tips to help you plan your trip:

Go solo vs. join a tour

While some of the places in this guide are well connected to Dubrovnik by public transport, others are not. If you plan to rent a hire car you could certainly get to most of these day trip destinations on your own. However, for some places (like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and the Elafiti Islands), I highly recommend joining an organized day trip. Not only will you avoid having to deal with border crossing issues and ferry timetables, you’ll also learn a lot from your local guide.

PRO TIP | I always use Get Your Guide or Viator to book day trips as the majority of their tours include free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and some tours even let you reserve in advance and pay later. The flexibility gives me peace of mind as sometimes you need to change your plans so it’s great knowing I can cancel for free.

I’ve included some top-rated tours for each destination. If you end up booking one of these tours through my links, I do make a small commission; however, I only recommend day trips I have personally done or that are highly rated by other travellers through verified reviews.

How many days in Dubrovnik is enough?

While you could see most of the city’s highlights in one day, I recommend planning a 5-day trip to Dubrovnik. This will allow you to explore all the main sights in the city and add on a couple of day trips from Dubrovnik. If you only have 3 days in Dubrovnik, plan to spend 2 days in the city and 1 day on a day trip.

READ NEXT | If you need some help planning your trip, I’ve got a 5-day itinerary with ideas on how to spend your time in Dubrovnik.

Important information about Croatia

Currency: As of January 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro. Prior to this Dubrovnik used the Croatian Kuna (HRK). If you decide to do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, you can use the Euro as it’s their official currency as well. However, if you visit Bosnia or Herzegovina, their official currency is the Convertible Mark (KM or BAM). Some places do accept the Euro but it’s good to have some local currency with you.
Language: The official language of Croatia is Croatian. While English is widely spoken, it’s good to learn some of the basic words and phrases before you go.
Payment method: Most places in Croatia accept credit cards, including attractions, shops and restaurants. I recommend having some cash on you just in case card machines aren’t working, or you plan to get a taxi or bus.

Crossing the borders

If you decide to do a day trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro, you will have to cross the border. There can be delays, especially in the summer months when there are lots of organized tours so factor this into your day. Make sure you have your passport with you the same way you would if you were flying to Europe, and check the visa requirements before you go.

The best Dubrovnik day trips

There are so many great day tours from Dubrovnik so for ease I’ve split this guide into 3 sections:

Day trips from Dubrovnik to other places in Croatia
Day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro
Day trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina

I’ve included information on how to get there by car or public transport, and have also added in a section with recommended tours if you don’t have a car.

Day trips from Dubrovnik to other places in Croatia

Lokrum Island

Distance from Dubrovnik: 15 minutes on the ferry

There are so beautiful islands to visit from Dubrovnik but one of the easiest to get to is Lokrum Island. This small, uninhabited island is a lush oasis and is only a short ferry ride from the Old Port, making it one of the closest day trips from Dubrovnik.

In the summer months, boats leave every hour from Dubrovnik’s Old Port. The trip lasts 15 minutes and cost €7 per person. You can check the ferry details here. Unfortunately this route doesn’t operate in the low season.

The island was the filming location for the city of ‘Qarth’ in Game of Thrones. It features a charming Benedictine monastery, botanical gardens, and a picturesque small lake known as Mrtyo More (Dead Sea). If you have time, there are enchanting hikes along Lokrum’s cliffs and rocky shoreline, where you can fully immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Adriatic.

Peljesac Peninsula

Distance from Dubrovnik: 1 hour by car

The Pelješac Peninsula, located northwest of Dubrovnik, is famous for its robust red wines, particularly Dingač and Postup, made from the indigenous Plavac Mali grape. These wines are known for their rich, full-bodied flavors and high tannin content.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or you just want to explore more of the region, the Pelješac Peninsula is one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and culinary delights.

Start your visit in Ston, known for its impressive medieval walls and ancient salt pans. It actually has the largest wall in Europe, stretching 5.5km between the towns of Ston and Mali Ston. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the world-renowned oysters in Mali Ston. Explore the scenic vineyards and sample some of the finest wines in Croatia in the town of Orebić. For beach lovers, the crystal-clear waters of Prapratno Beach are a must-visit. Adventurers can hike up Sveti Ilija for stunning views.

Best day trips to the Pelješac Peninsula

If you don’t have a car, there are some great organized tours to Pelješac Peninsula:

Pelješac Full-Day Wine and Food Tour from Dubrovnik: This tour is perfect for food and wine lovers. You’ll visit two family-run wineries in peninsula of Pelješac. On the way, you’ll stop at the medieval town of Ston. You’ll finish the day with a typical brunch called ‘marenda’ in a Dalmatian pub.
Oyster, Mussles, and Wine Tasting Tour in Ston: Take a boat ride thorugh Little Ston bay and savor oysters and mussels that have just been pulled from the sea on this tour from Dubrovnik. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside and get some free time in Ston to explore.

Elafiti Islands

Distance from Dubrovnik: 1 – 2 hours by ferry

The Elafiti Islands is a picturesque archipelago near Dubrovnik. The archipelago consists of 3 inhabited islands (Koločep, Lopud and Šipan) and several smaller, uninhabited ones. This is definitely one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik as the islands feel like an oasis from the busy city.

Koločep is known for its lush forests and sandy beaches, perfect for hiking and swimming. It also has lush Mediterranean vegetation and oranges’ plantation, as well as historical buildings such as St. Anthony chapel. Lopud boasts the beautiful Sunj Beach and the historic Franciscan Monastery. Šipan is the largest island and offers olive groves, vineyards, and ancient churches.

To get to the Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik, you’ll need to catch the ferry from Port Gruz on the other side of the city. It departs daily and stops at Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep. In July and August, the ferry leaves 4 times a day so you’ll have enough time to visit each island and make it back to Dubrovnik. The round trip (three islands and return to Dubrovnik) costs €18.

Tours from Dubrovnik to Elafiti Islands

Getting to Port Gruz can be a bit of a mission so I recommend booking yourself onto an organized tour instead for ease. Here are a few options, all top-rated and certified by Get Your Guide:

Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: This 8-hour tour takes you to all three inhabited islands. The first stop is Lopud where you’ll have 3 hours to explore. Next, you’ll stop at Šipan for an hour before continuing on to Koločep where you’ll have an hour of free time. Lunch is included on the boat cruise along with Croatian wine, water and soft drinks.
Blue Cave & Sunj Beach Boat Tour with Drinks: If you love being out on the water, this half-day tour is a great option. You’ll visit Three Green Caves and Blue Cave. These ancient caves are located on Koločep Island. The speedboat will then take you to Sunj beach on Lopud where you’ll have 1.5 hours to relax and soak in the views.
Elafiti Island Hopping Cruise on Karaka Ship: This is very similar to the first tour. It doesn’t include lunch or drinks but it does offer an optional hiking tour and winery visit.

Korčula

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2 hours by ferry / 3 hours by car and ferry

Korčula, often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik,” is a stunning island in Croatia known for its medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and pristine beaches. It’s the birthplace of Marco polo and is steeped in history, making it one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Start by exploring the charming Old Town, with its narrow streets, ancient walls, and the majestic St. Mark’s Cathedral. For outdoor enthusiasts, Vela Pržina Beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and you’ll get breath-taking views from Glavica hill. Wine lovers should tour the local vineyards and taste the indigenous Grk wine. Don’t miss the traditional Moreska sword dance which is a captivating cultural performance.

To get to Korčula from Dubrovnik, you have two options:

Go as a foot passenger: This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Korčula. The ferry catamaran departs daily from Dubrovnik’s Gruz port and takes around 2 hours to get to Korčula town.
Drive to Orebić and cross by car ferry: If you don’t fancy being on a boat for 2 hours, you can drive across the Peljesac Peninsula to Orebić and catch the short car ferry to Korčula island.

Day trips from Dubrovnik to Korčula

If you’d rather avoid figuring out the ferries on your own, consider booking an organized tour instead:

Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: This full-day tour covers the Pelješac peninsula and the beautiful island of Korčula. This is a great option if you like wine but don’t want to just go wine tasting as you’ll get to explore Korčula and learn about the island’s history.
Guided Tour of Pelješac & Korčula with Wine Tasting: This is a great full-day tour if you want to see a lot in a short space of time. You’ll stop in Ston and Orebić before getting the ferry over to Korčula. Afterwards, you’ll stop in the Pelješac Peninsula and visit some local wineries.

Cavtat

Distance from Dubrovnik: 30 minutes by car

If you’re planning some day trips from Dubrovnik but don’t want to go too far, Cavtat is another great option. This picturesque coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Start your visit with a stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. Explore the Rector’s Palace. Franciscan Monsastery, and the Racic Mausoleum, designed by renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović. The town’s lush botanical gardens and scenic walking trails in the surrounding hills offer breath-taking views. One of the lovely things about Cavtat is that it’s much quieter and more affordable than Dubrovnik. If you are spending a week in Dubrovnik in summer, a day trip to Cavtat is a nice escape from the crowds.

Getting to Cavtat from Dubrovnik is very easy. You can take a scenic 30-minute drive along the coastal road by car or taxi. Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, you can catch the number 10 bus from Dubrovnik’s main bus station (Gruž) or Pile Gate. For a picturesque experience, hop on a boat or ferry from Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbour to Cavtat.

Day trips to Cavtat

A lot of organized tours include a stop at Cavtat as part of their itinerary; however, most of them only give you 30 minutes to explore. As Cavtat is so close to Dubrovnik, I recommend getting the local bus if you don’t have a car and exploring on your own.

Konavle Valley

Distance from Dubrovnik: 35 minutes by car

The Konavle Valley, situated to the southeast, is the other prominent wine region near Dubrvonik. It produces a variety of wines, with a focus on white wines such as Malvasija Dubrovacka. This region’s wines are appreciated for their crisp, refreshing profiles and delicate floral aromas, making them perfect companions to the local cuisine.

Start your day trip by exploring the charming village of Čilipi, where you can experience traditional Croatian folklore dances and visit the local ethnographic museum. Afterwards, take a scenic drive through the valley to admire the rolling vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards. There are some lovely scenic trails, such as the Ronald Brown Path, which are great for hiking and biking. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sokol Tower, a restored medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the Konvale Valley.

Day trips to the Konvale Valley

There are several wonderful half- or full-day tours that you can choose from but here is the one I recommend:

Half-Day Konavle Valley Wine Tasting and Cavtat City Tour: This half-day tour to the Konavle Valley will take you to a family-run winery which started in 1540. You’ll get to try 3 sorts of their award-winning wine along with their homemade prosciutto, cheese and olives. After wine tasting, you’ll visit Cavtat.

Mljet National Park

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2.5 hours by car and ferry

Mljet National Park, located on the island of Mljet in Croatia, is a pristine natural paradise known for its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and serene atmosphere. The park encompasses two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

On your day trip from Dubrovnik, visit the small island of St. Mary on Veliko Jezero to explore a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. You can also hike or bike through the park’s scenic trails, offering breath-taking views and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. Finally, don’t leave Mljet National Park without seeing Odysseus’s Cave, a legendary sea cave. According to Greek mythology, Odysseus was held captive on the island for 7 years by the goddess Calypso.

The fastest way to get to Mljet National Park is to take the ferry from the Port Gruz in Dubrovnik to Pomena on the island. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the main park entrance. You can find more information here.

Organized trips to Mljet National Park

The ferry times are quite limited so I highly recommend just booking an organized tour from Dubrovnik to Mljet National Park. This will give you a lot more time on the island without the stress of worrying about ferry times!

National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik: This 11-hour day trip from Dubrovnik will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Port Gruz where you’ll board a catamaran for the island of Mljet. Once you arrive, you’ll hike around Big and Small Lake with a guide. Afterwards, you’ll take a boat ride to the island of St. Mary to visit the Benedictine Monastery. Lunch is included and followed by some free time.
Mljet National Park & Elafiti Islands Trip: This full-day tour is packed with adventure! You do have to get to and from Port Gruz yourself but the rest of the day is organized for you. You’ll visit Odysseus cave where you can go snorkeling and cliff jumping, before going to the historic island of Šipam. You’ll finish at Koločep where you can do more snorkeling or swimming.

Split

Distance from Dubrovnik: 3 hours by car or 3.5 hours by bus

Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern charm. The city centre is dominated by the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s palace complex with bustling markets, cafes, and historical sites like the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.

On your day trip to Split, stroll along the lively Riva promenade, lined with palm trees and restaurants. Explore the vibrant Green Market and sample local delicacies. Visit the Marjan Hill for panoramic views and scenic trails. If you want to learn more about the city’s history, the Archaeological Museum offers insights into the Split and the region’s rich past.

Out of all these Dubrovnik day trips, Split is one of the furthest away. It’s such an interesting city so I do recommend spending more than just one day in Split. However, if you don’t have time, a day trip from Dubrovnik is better than nothing!

Day tours to Split from Dubrovnik

Due to the distance, tours from Dubrovnik to Split can be quite expensive. Make sure you read the reviews and check how much time you’ll actually have in Split to ensure it’s worth it. You’ll want at least 4 hours. Here are a few tours that are highly rated:

Split Day Trip and City Tour with Transfers: This full-day tour will pick you up from your accommodation in Dubrovnik and drive you all the way to Split (with a couple of comfort breaks along the way). Once you arrive, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace. Afterwards, you’ll have 3 hours of free time to explore Split.
Split Day Trip from Dubrovnik: This is a very similar tour but includes a 1.5 hour city walking tour. This includes Diocletian’s Palace and a few other historic landmarks. You’ll then have 3 hours to explore Split on your own.

Day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Just a short drive away from Dubrovnik, Montenegro offers breath-taking scenery, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. There are plenty of great places to visit on a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro:

Kotor

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2 hours by car

Kotor, a historic town in Montenegro, is nestled between towering mountains and the stunning Bay of Kotor. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow streets, charming squares, and notable landmarks like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral. If you’re a history buff, Kotor is one of the day trips from Dubrovnik you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary!

While in Kotor, make sure you climb the ancient city walls to the San Giovanni Fortress for breath-taking views of the bay. Explore the Maritime Museum to learn about Kotor’s rich seafaring history. For a scenic drive, take the serpentine road up Mount Lovćen.

Perast

Distance from Dubrovnik: 1.5 hours by car

Another must-see spot on day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenergo is the picturesque village of Perast. Located on the Bay of Kotor, Perast is renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and rich maritime history. The town boasts numerous historic palaces and churches, including the Church of St. Nicholas.

A highlight is visiting the two small islets, Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, accessible by boat. Our Lady of the Rocks features a fascinating church and museum with a collection of artifacts. Make sure you take some time to stroll along Perast’s waterfront promenade which offers beautiful views of the bay.

Budva

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2.5 hours by car

Budva, a vibrant coastal town in Montenegro, is famous for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic charm. The Old Town, encircled by medieval walls, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, quaint squares, and historic sites, including the Church of St. John and the Budva Citadel. Relax on Mogren Beach or the bustling Slovenska Beach.

Visit the charming island of Sveti Stefan, just a short drive away, known for its luxury resorts and picturesque views. Budva’s waterfront promenade offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. With its blend of history, culture, and entertainment, Budva is one of the best day trips from Dubrovnik.

Best day tours from Dubrovnik to Montenegro:

There are lots of great tours to Montenegro you can join that include round-trip transport from Dubrovnik. Joining a tour is a hassle-free way to see Montenegro and means you can admire the spectacular scenery of the coastline.

Full-day tour to Bay of Kotor, Perast, Kotor and Budva: We booked this tour and absolutely loved it. The tour is limited to 8 people so it’s a small group which means you can ask your guide lots of questions about the history and culture. Our guide was so knowledgeable and funny and we had a decent amount of free time to explore in each place; 1.5 hours in Perast, 3 hours in Kotor, and 2 hours in Budva.
Montenegro Day Trip to Perast, Kotor, Bay of Kotor: This is a slightly cheaper option which takes you to Perast and Kotor, but not Budva. You have the option of visiting the island of Our Lady of the Rocks during your time in Perast.
Montenegro Boat Tour from Perast to K otor with boat cruise to Our Lady of the Rocks: This tour starts with an hour in Perast. Afterwards, you’ll board a boat and cruise to Our Lady of the Rocks. You’ll continue on to Kotor on the boat and get 2.5 hours of free time to explore, before heading back to Dubrovnik.

PRO TIP | As they involve crossing the border, make sure you have your passport with you and check the visa requirements before you go.

Day trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina

One of the great things about visiting Dubrovnik is that you’re able to explore more of the Balkans. Visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina from Dubrovnik is easy. Take a scenic drive or guided tour to Mostar, famous for its historic bridge and charming Old Town. Alternatively, explore the picturesque town of Počitelj or visit the stunning Kravice Waterfalls.

Mostar

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2 hours by car

Located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is another great day trip from Dubrovnik. Just a few hours away from Dubrovnik, Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) spanning the Neretva River. The bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a symbol of unity and resilience. The original bridge was built in the 16^th century but was sadly destroyed during the Balkan War in 1993. The version you’ll see today is an impressive copy built with the original stone.

Walking through the historic Old Town, you’ll encounter a blend of Ottoman and European architecture, bustling bazaars, and delightful cafes. Key highlights include the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, offering panoramic views of the city, and the Old Bazaar, Kujundžiluk, where you can shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Kravice Waterfalls

Distance from Dubrovnik: 2 hours by car

Kravice Waterfalls are a stunning natural attraction known for their cascading beauty and emerald-green pools. Situated along the Trebižat River, the waterfalls cascade over 25 meters into a natural amphitheater surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can swim in the cool, clear waters or relax on the riverbanks enjoying the picturesque scenery. The area is also popular for picnicking and hiking, with trails offering panoramic views of the falls and surrounding landscapes.

The park is open every day from 7am to 10pm in summer and from 7am to 7pm in winter. It costs €10 per person to enter the park. Euros are, however, not accepted. You’ll need to pay by card or in the local currency (Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark).

Počitelj

Distance from Dubrovnik: 1.5 hours by car

Počitelj is a historic village, known for its picturesque architecture and stunning hilltop setting overlooking the Neretva River. The village features well-preserved medieval and Ottoman-era structures, including a fortress, mosques, and traditional stone houses. Unlike Mostar or Kravice Waterfalls, it’s one of the lesser known day trips from Dubrovnik.

While you’re there, make sure you wander through the narrow, cobbled streets and visit the impressive Hajji Alija Mosque and Sahat-kula (clock tower) for panoramic views. If you love art, take some time to explore local galleries and workshops showcasing traditional crafts. Počitelj is a captivating destination for history buffs and photographers alike, offering a glimpse into Bosnia’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.

Best day trips from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina

As with Montenegro, you can plan your own day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina if you have rented a car. However, navigating the border can be challenging so it is often easier to book a guided tour instead. There are lots of tours to Mostar available from Dubrovnik, but make sure you check how much time you’ll actually get in each location. Some tours only include an hour in Mostar and you’ll definitely want more than that!

Full-day tour to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls: My parents booked this tour and were very impressed with the guide and tour company. It’s a semi-private tour which includes one hour at the beautiful Kravice waterfalls and three hours in Mostar. It’s a top-rated tour (5 stars with over 2,000 reviews) and has a Badge of Excellence from Viator.
Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar and Pocitelj Day Trip: A cheaper option is this tour which includes a quick 30-minute stop at the medieval town of Počitelj.

PRO TIP | As they involve crossing the border, make sure you have your passport with you and check the visa requirements before you go.

Final thoughts on the best day trips from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik serves as the perfect base for exploring some of the most enchanting destinations in the Adriatic region. Whether you’re marvelling at the medieval charm of Kotor, soaking in the serene beauty of the Elafiti Islands, or delving into the rich history of Mostar, each day trip offers a unique and unforgettable experience. I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you have any questions or recommendations on other day trips from Dubrovnik, let me know in the comments!