Dubrovnik, for all of its beauty, is a small city. While there are plenty of things to do in this gorgeous Croatian seaside town, if you’re planning on spending more than a few days, I always suggest taking some day trips. While it is easy to simply spend time lounging at the beach, dining on fresh Croatian dishes and exploring the Old City, there is so much more which awaits outside the city walls. It is near the islands, Bosnia, and Montenegro, making it is superb launching point to go and venture out to other spots nearby.
So, head out from your Durbovnik hotel and get exploring! My favorite day trips from Dubrovnik:
Island Hop
While most of the famous islands are north off the coast of Split, there are plenty of islands near Dubrovnik to hop on over to. Fork over some extra kuna and head out on a day tour to Mljet and its national park, or simply bop over to Lokrum (it’s got a nudist beach if you’re feeling like stripping down to your birthday suit), as well as Elaphiti, Lopud, Sipan and Kolocep islands.
Another option is to join a tour which takes people to Korcula. Located on a small peninsula of the island, this walled town is home to one of the most beautiful medieval cities on the Adriatic Coast. Tours highlight the beauty of the island, as well as the local food and drink.
Get a New Passport Stamp
Thanks to its proximity to both Bosnia-Hercegovina and Montenegro, it is easy to stamp into a new country for the day. Mostar, in Bosnia, is gorgeous city a couple of hours inland. Here, the scars of the Yugoslavian War survive, but are within a beautiful landscape. Sip Bosnian coffee, take a tour of the surrounding area, or simply learn more about the history of this battle-scarred town.
For those who don’t mind being in the car longer, delve even further into Bosnia and spend some time in the dynamic Sarajevo. The ride alone is worth it as roads wind you past Mostar and other historic spots. Once in Sarajevo, be sure to check out the Sarajevo Roses and Tunnel Museum.
If you want to head south, check out Kotor. Located on the Kotor Bay, this city in Montenegro is a gorgeous day trip that lets you get a slice of Montenegro life, as well as explore the tiny walled town. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up to the top of Kotor Mountain to check out the fortress which remains (plus some killer views).
Explore More of Croatia
While it takes a few hours from Dubrovnik, head up to Split and check out this UNESCO Heritage Site. It’s home to a sandy beach (a rarity on the Dalmatian Coast) and Diocletian’s Palace, worthy of a climb to the top. If you’ve got some extra time, check out the ferry schedule and see if it is possible to squeeze in some island time on Hvar or Brac, both nearby to the mainland.
This post is a part of the #HipmunkCityLove campaign.
D Travels 'Round 