Beyond the Old Town, Dubrovnik's surroundings offer a range of days out — the island of Lokrum, the Elafiti island chain, the Konavle valley south of the city, and the coastal towns of the southern Dalmatian riviera.

Lokrum Island

Lokrum is a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik's Old Port and is the closest island to the city. The island has a botanical garden, Benedictine monastery ruins, a Game of Thrones museum, a saltwater lake, and rocky swimming areas. Day-trip boats run regularly in summer from Dubrovnik's Old Port. The island is a national reserve; camping is not permitted.

The Elafiti Islands

The Elafiti archipelago — Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan — is accessible by regular ferry from Dubrovnik's Gruz harbour. All three islands are car-free. Lopud has the most developed tourism infrastructure; Sipan is the largest and least visited.

The Konavle valley

South of Dubrovnik, the Konavle valley is the municipality's agricultural hinterland — known for traditional embroidery, wine production (Rukatac white wine), and the Cavtat (ancient Epidaurum) resort town on the coast.

The Libertas Guide

We are an independent editorial guide. We do not handle bookings for ferry services, accommodation or tours. Check the Jadrolinija ferry service website for current timetables.

Ston, Mljet and Planning Your Day

A few more destinations reward visitors willing to travel a little further. North-west of the city, the twin settlements of Ston and Mali Ston sit at the neck of the Pelješac peninsula. Ston is known for its medieval defensive walls, built by the Republic of Ragusa to protect its valuable salt pans, which are still worked today. Mali Ston Bay is famous for its oyster and mussel farming, and the walls can be walked in sections, so it pairs well with a seafood lunch. Beyond Ston, the Pelješac peninsula is one of Croatia's best-known red wine areas, centred on the Plavac Mali grape.

Further out to sea, Mljet is a long, forested island whose western part is a national park. Its two saltwater lakes and the small islet with a former Benedictine monastery make it a popular full-day excursion. Catamaran and ferry services connect it with Dubrovnik in season, but crossings take considerably longer than the short hop to Lokrum, so an early start is sensible.

Practical tips for a day out

  • Check timetables the day before. Island services change between summer and the quieter months, and weather can affect crossings.
  • Bring cash and water. Smaller islands and village cafés may have limited facilities, especially outside peak season.
  • Wear proper footwear. Island paths, city walls and rocky swimming spots are uneven; sea shoes are useful on pebble and rock beaches.
  • Respect protected areas. Lokrum and Mljet's national park have rules on fires, camping and staying overnight, and entry fees may apply.
  • Plan around evening events. If you hope to catch a performance back in town, leave a generous margin for the return boat or bus.

Combining a daytime excursion with an evening show is one of the best ways to experience the region. Browse the events guide for what is on, and see our where to watch page for the historic open-air settings used for concerts and theatre during summer.