Dubrovnik, the shimmering Pearl of the Adriatic, will captivate you with its enchanting Old Town, dramatic coastline, delectable cuisine, Game of Thrones filming locations, exciting water activities, and friendly locals. Dubrovnik is chock full of delights, but it is also centrally-located as a jumping-off point for easy day trips, especially to nearby countries!
The enticing Croatian islands and neighboring Balkan nations are perfect destinations for day trips (or even overnight stays). This article features three convenient expeditions we took from Dubrovnik—venturing to Montenegro’s charming seaside towns of Perast and Kotor Bay, sailing to the dreamy Croatian island of Korčula, and crossing into Bosnia to explore the magical city of Mostar and the breathtaking Kravice Falls.
Day Trips from Dubrovnik
Note: The author was provided with some discounted and/or complimentary passes and meals so that she could try the attractions/restaurants and review them for your information. All opinions are her own. Most images courtesy of Lisa Grabelle unless otherwise noted.
Perast and Kotor Bay, Montenegro
Just two hours south of Dubrovnik, you’ll find Perast and Kotor, two of the jewels of Montenegro. To sample what this region offers in a safe, engaging, and efficient manner, we took a private day trip with Arka Travel owner Robert Andusic (a Rick Steves recommended tour guide).
Robert began the day by showing us several poignant sites in Dubrovnik related to the Croatian War of Independence from 1991-1995, including a spectacular view of the walled city below from a nearby vista. Afterward, Robert drove us across the border to Montenegro, streamlining the process by selecting the least busy crossing.
Our Montenegro tour commenced with a quick coffee stop in the quaint town of Verige, where we enjoyed panoramic waterside views. We then drove along the shore to picturesque Perast, where Robert helped us hire a boat captain to ferry us to the one-of-a-kind Our Lady of the Rocks Island, home to a museum and church.
According to legend, after fishermen claimed to have seen Mary and Child in the reef, they spent centuries dropping handfuls of stone in the middle of the lake, forming this artificial island. After returning to shore, we strolled the tiny waterside town of Perast, which reminded us of a rustic Italian Lake village sprinkled with Baroque architecture.
A short drive away around Kotor Bay, peppered with scenic lookouts, led us to the restaurant Galion, just outside the Old Town walls. The restaurant offers tasty dishes, a tranquil setting, and a wide-open waterfront view. Fueled up and ready to go, we excitedly entered the main gates of the Old Town, while taking in the dramatic setting of the fortified town of Kotor, nestled between a marina and an imposing rugged mountain.
The highlight of our day was getting lost in the labyrinth-like alleys of Kotor. We walked along the medieval fortress walls, peaked into numerous churches, and browsed alluring boutiques. Known as “The City of Cats,” we were greeted by countless felines, revered by locals as good luck charms.
For the more adventurous, embark on a steep hike up to San Giovanni or Kotor Fortress — we instead opted to soak in the charm of this Adriatic town—grabbing a gelato (we loved Marshalls), sipping coffee in an atmospheric square, and toasting the day with a glass of rakija, a brandy-like drink popular amongst locals.
Next, we headed to the Kotor-Lovćen Cable Car, which whisked us up to an adrenaline-pumping view of the expansive sea and the rolling mountains. At the upper station, we spotted an Alpine coaster with twists and turns that looked like it would be a lot of fun.
Finally, Robert took us on a leisurely drive around the bay to Lepetane and then ferried across to Kamenari. We arrived back in Dubrovnik just in time for dinner, where we enjoyed discussing our Montenegrin experiences and scrolling through the hundreds of photos we took that day.
Our day with Robert was a standout among our ten days in the Balkans. Throughout the day, Robert regaled us with stories about growing up in Croatia, his personal experiences as the youngest soldier enlisted in the “Homeland War,” and what it’s like to live in the region today. We appreciated how Robert allowed us to decide how much time we wanted to spend exploring each location. He never rushed us, and he welcomed our input to tweak the suggested itinerary. Robert enriched our tour with lessons about local flora, bodies of water, geography, religion, history, and culinary specialties. He introduced us to hidden gems, kept us laughing, and taught us a ton—indeed a perfect day trip.
TIPS:
- Other options to visit Kotor and Perast include renting a car and taking a group bus tour.
- Wear sturdy shoes, the cobblestones and uneven pavement can get slippery when wet.
- Robert is also available for hire for day trips in Croatia and Bosnia.
- If you are visiting during the summer, the border crossing is known to take a very long time
Korčula, Croatia
In my opinion, no visit to Croatia is complete without spending at least one day on an island. With the enchanting Dalmatian island of Korčula a mere two-hour catamaran ride away, consider a day trip to this slice of Croatian heaven. With hidden pebble beaches, crystal blue waters, sprawling olive groves, lush vineyards, kayak tours, world-class cuisine, and so much more—a day trip to Korčula will enhance your time in Croatia!
Kick off your visit by booking the Korčula Original Safari Buggy Tour. Our entertaining tour guide Branko, a local whose family has lived on the island for generations, founded this company with his lovely wife Ana. We had a blast driving our own buggy on a mix of on-road and bumpy, serpentine, off-road routes, covering several miles of this gorgeous island!
Branko shared fascinating stories about his island upbringing that kept us chuckling and learning at each stop. We zipped up to a spectacular viewpoint, cruised past acres of vineyards, and discovered secret island spots. Along the way, Branko treated us to water, freshly squeezed juice, and even homemade wine. The piece de resistance was dining on the terrace of Banko and Ana’s home, where a buffet of local treats and homemade spirits awaited us, accompanied by a sweeping view of the valley. If you are visiting during warmer months, masks and snorkels will be provided for a relaxing beach break. The Korčula Original Safari Buggy Tour was a super fun way to cover this large island in a few hours.
After lunch, we walked through the compact, walled Old Town, which is said to have been the home of famed explorer Marco Polo. We spent the rest of the afternoon wandering the narrow cobblestone alleys with an ice cream cone in hand, peaking into shops and visiting churches. The architecture reflects the island’s past Venetian rule, and the imposing fortifications around the city center speak to its historical significance. With just a handful of key sights, such as St. Mark’s Cathedral with its tall bell tower and a Marco Polo Museum, you can zip through town quickly.
As the sun began to set, we donned sturdy shoes, climbed a steep ladder (holding on tight with both hands), and were rewarded with drinks atop a medieval tower at Massimo Cocktail Bar. Looking out at the burnt orange roofs of the town and the glistening water was unbelievably cool! We embraced the chill vibe and swapped stories with fellow travelers while ordering from Massimo’s simple menu of cigars and cocktails. Marvel as drinks are hoisted up to the rooftop seating area via a pulley system. TIP: Book in advance via WhatsApp since space is limited, and trust me, don’t wear a skirt!
For dinner, we strolled a few minutes along the waterside promenade to reach the must-visit, Michelin-recommended Restaurant Filippi. Helmed by the dynamic duo of Mario Mandarić, a Forbes 30 Under 30 Chef, and Vanja Agić, a 2021 Masterchef winner, Restaurant Filippi offers exceptionally friendly service, features delicious Dalmatian dishes made from local ingredients that have been part of the island’s culinary tradition for centuries, alongside regional wines from smaller producers. Choose between a cozy, romantic indoor space or an al fresco table with a view of the Pelješac channel and the archipelago. I admire the restaurant’s commitment to zero waste, incorporating the philosophy into each tasty course.
The Traditional Tasting Menu dazzled with tender sea bass carpaccio, vibrant green pea and mint soup (one of the best soups we have ever had!), crispy black arancini made with cuttlefish, fish accompanied by swiss chard and potato, and a refreshing peach sorbet. The Vegan Tasting Menu impressed me with some of the most innovative dishes I have ever encountered, beyond my imagination. The chefs creatively presented cherry tomatoes in several ways, all in one dish, making it seem as though there were a plethora of ingredients. I was also astounded by a carrot course that featured carrots prepared four ways—sous vide carrot, carrot cream, pickled carrot, and carrot powder—and a celery course that included millefeuille, pickled celery stick, celery powder, and celery! Simply brilliant. Each dish at Restaurant Filippi is truly a work of delectable art! The knowledgeable waitstaff is well-prepared to pair each course with a matching wine to elevate the dining experience.
While we chose to stay overnight in Korčula, since we were heading toward Split for the second half of our Croatian adventure, a day trip from Dubrovnik would still enable you to enjoy everything on our itinerary. In total, we spent about eight hours touring the island and savoring our meals.
TIPS:
- The catamarans sell out at different times of the year, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Sample the island’s unique dry, white wine called Grk.
- If you have the time, spend the night in Korčula to fully appreciate its beauty. Consider the waterfront Aminess Heritage Korčula Hotel, offering a vintage feel, ideal location, pleasant staff, and an impressive breakfast spread.
Mostar and Kravice Falls, Bosnia
A two-hour drive from Dubrovnik transports you to Bosnia, where you can soak in the rich culture, history, food heritage, and natural beauty of a country known for its resilient and warm people. We booked a small group bus tour, but you can also rent a car or hire a private guide.
Our first stop was Mostar, a city that beautifully blends the customs of Ottoman and Turkish people. Despite the Bosnian War ending in 1995, if you look closely, remnants of that violent time can be observed in this rebuilt city. Nonetheless, Mostar feels safe and is both enchanting and incredibly unique.
The centerpiece of Mostar is the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), which was rebuilt following the war in 1993. This bridge is an architectural masterpiece that seems to defy gravity, arching up high to span the mighty Neretva River.
While we were surprised by the volume of touristy shops, we loved the authenticity that shined through when we veered off the main drag. As we perused the narrow lanes of the Old Bazaar, we visited many artist workshops. Along the way, consider stopping into a combination of the following sites: the Old Bridge Museum, the historic Muslibegovic and Biscevic Houses from the Ottoman era, the grandiose Franciscan Church and Monastery, the smaller Kriva ćuprija (Crooked Bridge), and the colorful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and its minaret dating from the 16th century.
Pick from many restaurants lining the river with a direct view of the city’s darling, the Old Bridge. We dined at Restaurant Babilon, where we sampled flavorful Bosnian dishes of grilled meats and vegetables. Restaurant Babilon’s picture-perfect location allowed us to comfortably savor our meal under a covered terrace while watching the daring divers preparing to jump off the bridge for tips. Sadly, none of them took the leap while we were there.
After lunch, partake in the Bosnian practice of sipping coffee brewed in a copper or stainless steel coffee pot, served in delicate cups topped with foam. We heard the best place for this authentic coffee ritual is at Café de Alma (unfortunately, we couldn’t squeeze it in with all the time we spent snapping photos).
The finale of our day was a visit to the jaw-droppingly, spectacular Kravice Falls which rise over eighty feet high and consist of twenty separate falls. Nestled along the Trebižat River, we were mesmerized as we watched the crystal-clear water forcefully cascade down a limestone ledge into the lake. As we looked around, we saw many families bravely taking dips in the water and enjoying snacks and drinks at the waterfront café.
TIP: Wear sturdy shoes equipped to walk on a steep bridge in Mostar, navigate cobblestone streets, and traverse slippery paths near the falls.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Our stay at the magnificent Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik was genuinely extraordinary and captivated us in every single way! This iconic hotel, which features original 19th-century architectural features dating from 1897, has been completely renovated. From the tastefully decorated, airy common spaces and the elegant lobby bar to the executive lounge offering delightful drinks and tasty treats, every moment felt exceptional. We enjoyed our delectable dinner of Dalmatian dishes at the Imperial Terrace Restaurant. The expansive breakfast buffet provided an energizing start to each day. The hotel is a luxurious retreat featuring a sunlit, glass-roof indoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and even a full-service spa providing massages, body scrubs, facials, laser therapy, and more.
And our suite was a dreamy oasis, transforming our stay into the ultimate vacation. The fabulous balcony offered the most stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, the Old City Walls, and Fort Lawrence— a breathtaking experience from sunrise to sunset. The staff’s friendly and polite nature made our stay even more memorable. With a central location mere steps from the Old City, we easily returned to our room to freshen up before dinner or adapt to the changing weather or activities. We will definitely stay again at the Hilton the next time we visit Dubrovnik!
Take advantage of Dubrovnik’s central location and add on day trips to enrich your vacation in ways that you will appreciate for years to come. Other top day trips from Dubrovnik include a visit to the oyster capital of Ston and the wine-producing Peljesac Peninsula.
Visiting Croatia? You May Also Be Interested In…
- 10-Day Croatia itinerary for couples
- 4 Days in Istria Itinerary
- 3 Days in Hvar Itinerary
- 3 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary
This guest post was written by Lisa Grabelle. Lisa, a freelance travel writer, who has been traveling all her life…44 countries and loving it! Originally from the sunny skies of Miami, Lisa, a former big firm lawyer, lives near Philadelphia. Travel is her passion. As soon as one vacation ends, Lisa busily plans her next adventure for her non-stop family of adventurers. Lisa’s motto is “don’t just visit the destination…live it!” You can follow Lisa on Instagram.
