Dubrovnik is an ideal base from which to explore the islands of the Adriatic, the shores of Montenegro and the cities of Bosnia-Herzegovina. We were won over by the variety of excursions accessible from its ramparts, some just a few minutes away by boat, others just a few hours’ drive.
Use our practical tips and photos to plan your ideal getaway. See our selection of the 10 best excursions from Dubrovnik to make your choice.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik offers a remarkably wide range of excursions. To simplify your visits, you can opt for guided tours. Here are our 3 favorites:
- The Blue Grotto, an excursion into the Adriatic Sea – See prices, photos and availability
- The three islands of the Elaphites archipelago and their wild coves – See prices, photos and availability
- In the footsteps of Game of Thrones, a tour of Dubrovnik in search of the series’ settings – see prices, photos and availability
WHERE TO STAY IN Dubrovknik
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Old Town
Hotel Villa 5DB – Check photos and availability
Lapad and Babin Kuk
Hôtel Royal Neptune – Check photos and availability
North coast
Hôtel Ninon Bed & Breakfast – Check photos and availability
Ploče district
Hotel Excelsior – Check photos and availability
1. The Blue Grotto: a light show under the sea
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Blue Grotto, or Modra špilja, is a sea cave on the island of Bisevo. It owes its name to the luminous blue reflection produced by sunlight through an underwater opening. The phenomenon is best observed in the middle of the day on a clear day, when the light reflects off the white cave floor, bathing the interior in an unreal clarity. We recommend reserving your place in advance: the cave is only accessible by small boat. Several operators offer half-day or full-day tours combining several islands and caves from Dubrovnik, so you can make the most of your sea journey and discover more!
What you will see
This excursion is well worth the detour for several reasons:
- The luminous blue reflection of the Grotte Bleue, an optical phenomenon produced by underwater light
- Access to the cavern by small boat
- The sea crossing from Dubrovnik along the Dalmatian coast
- The possibility of combining the visit with other islands and caves in the area
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day from Dubrovnik. The boat trip to the island of Bisevo takes around 2h30. The visit to the cave itself is short inside, but the combined program with other sites easily fills the day. In high season, departures are early in the morning: it’s best to book in advance.
>> Book your excursion to the Blue Grotto now <<
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
2. The three islands: a getaway in the Elaphite archipelago
Why do we recommend this tour?
Just a few nautical miles northwest of Dubrovnik, the Elaphite archipelago comprises thirteen islands, of which only three are inhabited: Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. This boat trip is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the old town and discover a secluded coastline and coves. We were seduced by the tranquility of Lopud, whose sandy beaches, rare in Dalmatia, offer a welcome contrast to the pebbles that are ubiquitous on the Croatian coastline. Ulysses’ cave is as good as the better-known Blue Cave! The archipelago can be explored by scheduled ferry or organized excursion from the port of Dubrovnik, with stopovers on several islands in a single day. We find this one of the best ways to take a breather between two busy days in Dubrovnik.
What you will see
The three islands are full of wonderful discoveries:
- The sandy beaches of Lopud, rare on this coastline dominated by pebbles
- The Dalmatian villages of Koločep, Lopud and Šipan
- A wild coastline and secluded coves accessible only by sea
- Boat trip from Dubrovnik harbour
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to visit two or three islands. Tours organized from Dubrovnik generally include stopovers on each of the inhabited islands. If you take a scheduled ferry, you’re free to choose your own schedule, but you’ll need to check that the ferries run less frequently outside the high season.
>> Book your trip to the Elaphite Islands now <<
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Croatia a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
3. In the footsteps of Game of Thrones: Dubrovnik, capital of Westeros
Why do we recommend this tour?
Dubrovnik was the setting for King’s Landing in the Game of Thrones series, and filming locations are scattered throughout the old town. Fort Lovrijenac, perched on a 37m rock west of the city walls, has played the role of the Red Fortress in several seasons. We were blown away by the 180° view of the sea and walls from its terraces, irrespective of any connection to the series. What’s more, the old town itself, with its staircases, limestone alleyways and medieval gates, is instantly recognizable to fans. A dedicated guided tour is the most practical way to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the scenery, and to get a behind-the-scenes look at the filming. These tours are also open to those unfamiliar with the series.
What you will see
Iconic locations for a Game of Thrones tour include:
- Fort Lovrijenac, the Red Fortress of King’s Landing, perched on a 37m rock
- The alleys and staircases of the old town used as backdrops
- Medieval ramparts built in the 14th century
- The guides’ explanations of the scenes shot at each location
How much time should I allow?
Game of Thrones guided tours generally last between 2 and 3 hours. Fort Lovrijenac is a 5-minute walk from the Pile Gate and is included in the Dubrovnik Pass. You can combine this themed tour with a general tour of the Old Town in the same half-day.
>> Book your visit in the footsteps of Game of Thrones <<
4. Kravica waterfall, Mostar and Počitelj: a day in Bosnia
Why do we recommend this tour?
This combined day trip is one of the most popular excursions from Dubrovnik. The Kravica Waterfall, in the Bosnian hinterland, impresses with its turquoise waters and natural basins. Mostar, about 2h30 away, is world-famous for its 16th-century Ottoman Old Bridge, rebuilt after the war and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005. We also recommend a stopover in Počitelj, a fortified medieval village overlooking the Neretva, whose stone houses and 15th-century tower make a striking picture.
What you will see
This day in Bosnia concentrates several major visits:
- The Kravica waterfall and its turquoise pools surrounded by vegetation
- Mostar’s Old Bridge, a symbol of reconciliation rebuilt in the 20th century
- Mostar’s old quarter and its Ottoman craft stores
- The fortified village of Počitelj and its 15th-century medieval tower overlooking the Neretva River
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day. The journey from Dubrovnik to Mostar takes around 2h30 to 3h, depending on the stops. On a guided tour, the program usually includes all three sites in a single loop, with transport from Dubrovnik, which is the most practical option if you don’t want to deal with border crossings individually.
>> Book your Bosnia day trip from Dubrovnik <<
5. Lokrum: the wild island a stone’s throw from the ramparts
Why do we recommend this tour?
Just 600m off the coast of the old town, the island of Lokrum is a nature reserve that can be reached in around ten minutes by the shuttle buses that leave regularly from the port. Covered with pines, centuries-old olive trees and Mediterranean plants, it is also home to a botanical garden founded in the 19th century by Archduke Maximilian of Austria. We were charmed by the peacocks that wander freely between the ruins of the Benedictine monastery and the visitors, without the slightest shyness. An inland sea lake offers calm waters for bathing. The island also features in Game of Thrones: the Qarth throne room was filmed here.
What you will see
Lokrum has a lot to offer in a short space of time:
- The botanical garden founded by Archduke Maximilian of Austria in the 19th century
- The ruins of the Benedictine monastery and its free peacocks
- The inland sea lake for a swim in calm waters
- Dense Mediterranean vegetation and rocky coves along the coastline
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day to enjoy the island at your leisure. Shuttles run from 9am to around 7pm in high season. The island is closed in winter. The ticket includes a round-trip shuttle from the old town port. You can also take an organized tour and let yourself be carried away.
>> All boat trips to Lokrum <<
6. Kayaking: Dubrovnik from the sea
Why do we recommend this tour?
Seeing Dubrovnik’s city walls from the sea is a perspective we recommend. Departing from the old town, the kayak skirts the walls on the Adriatic side and heads for the sea caves carved out of the limestone rock. We found this activity particularly well-suited to those who want to get moving and discover the city from a new angle. The technical level required is accessible to beginners, and guides accompany groups along the way. In the morning, the light on the ramparts is ideal and the sea is generally calm. It’s also a great way to reach inaccessible coves nestling at the base of the walls.
What you will see
This kayak outing combines sport and discovery:
- Dubrovnik’s ramparts seen from the sea
- Sea caves carved out of limestone, accessible only by kayak
- Isolated coves at the base of the walls, ideal for a swimming break
- An unobstructed view of the island of Lokrum from the sea
How much time should I allow?
Kayak trips generally last between 3 and 4 hours, including departure from the old town. Some operators offer sunset packages, particularly popular in summer. We advise you to book in advance in high season, as places sell out fast.
>> Book your kayak trip from Dubrovnik <<
Why do we recommend this tour?
Kotor, in Montenegro, is about 2 hours’ drive from Dubrovnik (85km). The old Venetian town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is encircled by medieval ramparts that climb the mountainside to the Fortress of St. John. Along the way, a stopover in Perast is a must. This small Baroque village on the shores of the Kotor Channel offers a direct view of the two artificial islets built in the 15th century: the island of Notre-Dame-du-Rocher and the island of Saint-Georges. We consider this excursion to be a fine combination of heritage and scenery, accessible from Dubrovnik. The Bay of Kotor, surrounded by mountains plunging into the sea, is one of the most striking sights in the Balkans.
What you will see
Between Kotor and Perast, the program is packed:
- The UNESCO-listed Venetian old town of Kotor and its medieval ramparts
- The Saint-Jean Fortress overlooking the bay from a height of 260m
- The baroque village of Perast and its 17th- and 18th-century palaces
- The two artificial islets of the Bouches de Kotor: Notre-Dame-du-Rocher island and Saint-Georges island.
- The Bay of Kotor
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to enjoy both cities without rushing. The journey from Dubrovnik takes around 2 hours each way. On a guided tour from Dubrovnik, transport and border crossings are handled by the operator, considerably simplifying logistics. We recommend the latter option.
>> Book your excursion to Kotor and Perast from Dubrovnik <<
8. Tyrolean traverse over Dubrovnik: the city as the crow flies
Why do we recommend this tour?
For thrill-seekers, zip-lining is an option. From the heights overlooking the old town, you can glide over the orange-tiled roofs and the Adriatic Sea. It’s a short but memorable activity, offering a view that even the cable car on Mont Srd can’t match.
What you will see
This activity offers a unique perspective on Dubrovnik:
- A zip-line tour of the old town and its rooftops
- Unobstructed views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands
- The ramparts and Fort Lovrijenac seen from above
How much time should I allow?
The activity itself takes just a few minutes. Including transport to the start site and on-site formalities, allow around 1 to 2 hours. It can easily be combined with a climb to Mount Srd or a visit to Fort Lovrijenac in the same half-day.
>> Book your zip line above Dubrovnik <<
Why do we recommend this tour?
Cavtat, a small Dalmatian town 18km south of Dubrovnik, can be reached in 20min by boat or 30min by road. Its tree-lined waterfront, Venetian palaces and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal excursion away from the hustle and bustle of the old town. The Konavle region, which extends into the hinterland, is famous for its vineyards and local wine production. We particularly appreciate this tour, which combines architectural heritage with the discovery of the region’s flavors. A wine tasting in this verdant setting, away from the usual tourist circuits, is an original way to round off a stay in Dubrovnik. Culinary tours of Dubrovnik and Ston are also available.
What you will see
This half-day trip between sea and hinterland includes..:
- Cavtat seafront and its Venetian palaces
- The tranquil atmosphere of this Dalmatian town, less crowded than Dubrovnik
- The vineyards of the Konavle region and a tasting of local wines
- The landscapes of the Dalmatian hinterland, between sea and green hills
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day for this combined tour. As an organized tour from Dubrovnik, the program includes transportation, a visit to Cavtat and tasting in the Konavle. You can also visit independently.
>> Book your culinary half-day in Cavtat and Konavle <<
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10. Split: a Roman city within easy reach
Why do we recommend this tour?
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is about 3? hours’ drive from Dubrovnik (225km). Its historic center is built inside Diocletian’s Palace, a former 4th-century Roman imperial residence whose walls now enclose alleyways, restaurants and inhabited apartments. It’s a unique UNESCO World Heritage site, where Roman, medieval and contemporary history coexist in a small space. We recommend this excursion for those wishing to complete their Dalmatian holiday with a city of a completely different nature to Dubrovnik. As a guided day trip, the route is organized and the explanations on site allow you to fully grasp the richness of the city.
What you will see
Split is home to several remarkable sites:
- Diocletian’s 4th-century palace, whose walls still house a lively city
- St. Domnius Cathedral, former mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, now converted into a church
- The Peristyle, the central square of the Roman palace, today the lively heart of the city
- The Split waterfront (Riva) with its lively cafés facing the Adriatic Sea
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day. The round trip takes around 7 hours in total. On a guided tour from Dubrovnik, the day is well balanced between transport and sightseeing.
>> Book your day trip to Split from Dubrovnik <<
It’s time to book!
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Frequently asked questions
What’s the best excursion from Dubrovnik?
It all depends on your interests. For sea outings, the Blue Grotto and the Elaphite Islands are the best excursions. For a day rich in heritage and a change of scenery, the combination of Mostar City , Kravica Waterfalls and Počitelj Village in Bosnia is our recommendation. If you prefer to stay close to the coast, Cavtat and Lokrum are accessible and relaxing excursions.
Do I need a car for excursions from Dubrovnik?
Not necessarily. Boat tours do not require a vehicle. For Mostar, Kravica in Bosnia or Kotor in Montenegro, you can opt for a guided tour departing from Dubrovnik, which avoids the hassle of border crossings and parking. A rental car is still useful if you want to organize your own multi-day itineraries in the region.
