14 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik Itinerary: Lokrum, Trsteno, and Elaphiti
Dubrovnik offers more than just its famous limestone streets and historic walls. Finding the best day trips from Dubrovnik itinerary: Lokrum, Trsteno, and Elaphiti helps you escape the summer crowds.
This guide covers 14 unique excursions ranging from island hopping to mountain adventures. You can easily follow a 3 days in Dubrovnik itinerary and still have time for these gems.
Summary: A Lokrum day trip itinerary
A trip to Lokrum Island starts at the Old Town Port with a short boat ride. You should aim to arrive at the island by 10:00 AM to beat the heat.
Spend your morning exploring the Benedictine Monastery and the botanical gardens. The island is small enough to walk across in about twenty minutes.
- Morning Monastery Visit
- Time: 1 hour
- See: Iron Throne
- Vibe: Historical
- Cost: Included in ferry
- Dead Sea Swim
- Type: Salt lake
- Best for: Floating
- Location: South side
- Tip: Wear water shoes
Best day trips from Dubrovnik
Choosing between islands and mainland tours depends on your personal travel style. Islands like Lokrum and the Elaphiti chain offer swimming and relaxation.
Mainland spots like Trsteno or Ston focus more on history and local food. Most travelers find that a mix of both creates a balanced vacation.
- Lokrum Island Escape
- Travel: 15 minutes
- Focus: Nature
- Rating: 2/5 Physicality
- Price: Affordable
- Pelješac Wine Tour
- Travel: 1 hour
- Focus: Gastronomy
- Rating: 1/5 Physicality
- Price: Mid-range
Where is Lokrum Island?
Lokrum sits just 600 meters away from the historic city walls of Dubrovnik. The ferry to Lokrum departs from the Old Town Port every 30 minutes in summer.
You can purchase tickets at the pier or use the Official Dubrovnik Pass Website for a discount. The ferry price in 2026 usually includes the mandatory Nature Reserve entrance fee.
Trsteno Arboretum: A Game of Thrones Escape
Trsteno Arboretum is located about 20 kilometers north of the city center. You can reach the gardens by taking local Libertas Dubrovnik bus lines 12, 15, or 35.
Fans will recognize the lush gardens from many Game of Thrones filming locations. The site features two massive plane trees that are over 500 years old.
Hidden Gems Odyssey: Private Elaphiti Islands & Blue Cave Tour
A private boat tour allows you to explore the Elaphiti Islands at your own pace. Most tours stop at Koločep to swim in the stunning Blue Cave.
You can skip the crowded group boats and find secluded bays for snorkeling. Booking a private skipper often includes gear and drinks for the day.
Coastal Vineyards: A Dream Wine Tour to Elaphiti Islands
Wine lovers should head to Šipan, the largest of the Elaphiti Islands. The island is home to historic villas and lush olive groves.
You can taste local varieties like Plavac Mali while overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Many tours combine these tastings with a traditional Dalmatian fish picnic lunch.
Half-Day Private ATV Tour of Kojan Koral from Dubrovnik
Adventure seekers will enjoy an off-road ATV tour through the Konavle valley. The tour starts at Kojan Koral and winds through rugged mountain paths.
You will see traditional villages and coastal cliffs far from the city noise. This trip usually takes about four hours including safety briefings and breaks.
Pelješac & Ston Small-Group Food & Wine Experience from Dubrovnik
Ston is famous for having the longest stone walls in all of Europe. You can hike the walls before visiting the local salt works.
The region is also the best place in Croatia to try fresh oysters. Pair your seafood with a glass of wine from the nearby Pelješac vineyards.
Border crossing notes for Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina
International day trips require you to cross borders into neighboring countries. Wait times at the Montenegro border can exceed two hours in July and August.
Check the Port of Dubrovnik Cruise Ship Schedule to avoid peak traffic days. You should always carry your passport when traveling to Mostar or Kotor.
Konavle Biking and Culture Discovery Tour from Dubrovnik
The Konavle region is perfect for an active day of cycling through nature. This tour has a physicality rating of 4 out of 5 due to some hills.
You will stop at an old water mill to see traditional flour production. The route follows the Ljuva River and offers plenty of shade from trees.
Organised tours vs DIY day trips from Dubrovnik
DIY trips to Lokrum or Trsteno are easy to manage on your own. Organized tours are better for complex routes like the Elaphiti Islands.
You can find many tourist attractions in Dubrovnik that offer both options. Tours provide transportation and guides which can save you a lot of stress.
Korčula Bike & Wine Tour
Korčula is a beautiful island known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. A bike tour through the Lumbarda region is the best way to see it.
You will cycle past sandy beaches and stop at family-run wineries. The ferry ride from Dubrovnik takes about two hours each way.
Mljet Island and Mljet National Park
Mljet is often called the greenest island in the entire Adriatic Sea. The National Park covers the western part and features two salt lakes.
You can visit the Official Dubrovnik Tourism Office for the latest ferry times. Rent a bike to circle the lakes or take a boat to the monastery.
Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts
Croatia has many hidden gems beyond the walls of the Pearl of the Adriatic. Explore more tourist attractions in Croatia to plan your full summer vacation.
You might also want to learn how to avoid crowds in Dubrovnik during peak months. Safe travels as you explore the stunning coastlines and islands of this region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Dubrovnik to Trsteno Arboretum?
You can reach Trsteno by taking the local Libertas bus from the main station. Lines 12, 15, and 35 stop directly at the arboretum entrance. The ride takes about 30 minutes and is quite affordable for solo travelers.
Is the Lokrum Island ferry included in the Dubrovnik Pass?
The ferry is not free with the pass, but you get a significant discount. Check the Dubrovnik Pass 2026 cost breakdown for exact savings. The pass still offers great value for other city sites.
How much does a day trip to the Elaphiti Islands cost?
A group boat tour usually costs between 40 and 60 EUR per person. This price often includes a lunch and drinks on the boat. Private tours are more expensive but offer a much more personal experience.
Dubrovnik serves as the perfect base for exploring the southern Dalmatian coast. Whether you choose Lokrum or the Elaphiti Islands, you will find crystal clear water.
Remember to book your tours in advance during the busy summer season. Enjoy your journey through the history and nature of this beautiful Mediterranean destination.
