With roots dating back to the 6th century, Dubrovnik is often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and serves as the lively heart of Croatia’s southernmost county. The Dubrovnik - Neretva county ("Dubrovačko-Neretvanska županija") is the southermost Croatian county with an area of 1782 km2. It consists of Dubrovnik and its surrounding (south to Montenegro and north to Pelješac), Pelješac penninsula, Korčula island, Lastovo island, Mljet island and the Elaphites, the Neretva Delta and Baćina lakes and a part of the hinterland near the south slopes of Biokovo.
Think medieval stone towns, vineyard-covered slopes, island-speckled seas and some of the country’s most dramatic coastal scenery - all within a few hours of Dubrovnik itself.
Dubrovnik Region at a Glance
- Where is it? Croatia’s southernmost region, centred on the walled city of Dubrovnik, stretching north towards Pelješac and south to the Konavle valley and Montenegro.
- What’s it like? A mix of UNESCO-listed Old Towns, quiet fishing villages, wine-growing hills, national parks and island beaches.
- Main hubs Dubrovnik (city break & culture), Cavtat and Konavle (quiet coastal & countryside stays), Elaphiti Islands and Mljet for nature and beaches.
- Top highlights City walls of Dubrovnik, sea-kayaking and boat trips to Lokrum and the Elaphiti islands, Mljet National Park, Pelješac wineries and oysters, sandy Šunj Beach on Lopud.
- Best for First-time visitors to Croatia, couples, families, cruise and island-hopping trips, Game of Thrones fans and food & wine lovers.
- How long to stay? 3-4 days for Dubrovnik plus a taste of the islands, 5-7 days to explore several parts of the region at a relaxed pace.
- When to go? Late April-June and September-October offer warm weather, swimming, and lighter crowds; July-August are hottest and busiest. For detailed climate data, see Weather in Dubrovnik.
Is Dubrovnik Region worth visiting?
Yes, the Dubrovnik Region is one of Croatia’s most rewarding areas, especially if you combine the city with at least one island or countryside base. You get a rare mix of living medieval history, island-hopping, wine country and easy cross-border day trips to Bosnia and Montenegro, all from a compact area centered on Dubrovnik. If you have 5-7 days, it’s very easy to build a varied holiday without long travel days.
Best places to visit in Dubrovnik Region
Use the Dubrovnik Region as a base to explore a chain of historic towns, islands and peninsulas. Each of the destinations below has its own atmosphere, from lively city streets to quiet coves and vineyards, and all can be combined into one trip.
Dubrovnik Travel Guide
Start in the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik, where medieval walls, limestone lanes and sea-facing fortresses create one of Europe’s most iconic cityscapes. It’s the region’s main transport hub and the best choice if you want nightlife, museums and easy day trips.
Cavtat Travel Guide
Just south of Dubrovnik, Cavtat combines a pretty harbourfront promenade with pine-shaded beaches and easy access to the countryside of Konavle. It’s ideal if you prefer a quieter stay but still want to dip into Dubrovnik for a day or two.
Island Mljet Travel Guide
Often described as Croatia’s greenest island, Mljet is home to a national park of saltwater lakes, shaded walking trails and small stone villages. Stay here if you love hiking, cycling and swimming in calmer, more natural surroundings.
Elaphiti Islands Travel Guide
The Elaphiti Islands of Koločep, Lopud and Šipan sit just off Dubrovnik and offer car-free villages, easy walking paths and some of the region’s best beaches. They’re reachable by regular ferries from Dubrovnik port and make great day trips or a slow-paced island stay.
Island Lopud Travel Guide
Lopud is famous for Šunj, one of the rare sandy beaches in southern Dalmatia, and a relaxed, pedestrian-only village wrapped around the harbour. It’s perfect for families and anyone wanting an easy beach escape from Dubrovnik.
Island Šipan Travel Guide
The largest of the Elaphiti, Šipan mixes stone mansions, tiny churches and quiet bays backed by olive groves and vineyards. Choose it if you’re happy with fewer services in exchange for peace and space.
Island Koločep Travel Guide
Closest to Dubrovnik, Koločep (Kalamota) is a small, lush island with coastal paths, hidden coves and a laid-back village feel, ideal for swimming, kayaking and unplugged holidays.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik Region
Your best base depends on whether you prefer city buzz, island calm or countryside views. Distances are short, so you can easily mix two bases in one trip.
- Dubrovnik city - Ideal if it’s your first time in the region and you want to walk the city walls, visit museums and enjoy bars and restaurants every night. Browse our selection of hotels and apartments in Dubrovnik or check the best hostels in Dubrovnik if you’re travelling on a budget.
- Cavtat & Konavle - Quieter bays, coastal promenades and easy access to vineyards and traditional villages. Use Cavtat Travel Guide to find accommodation and things to do, then pop into Dubrovnik by boat or bus.
- Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, Šipan) - Best if you want car-free villages and long swims. Stay on Lopud for sandy Šunj Beach or on Šipan for a more rustic, low-key feel.
- Mljet & Pelješac - For nature and wine. Mljet suits hikers and cyclists, while Pelješac (easily tied into trips towards Korčula and the Neretva valley) is all about red wines, oysters and long pebble beaches.
My favourite base in the Dubrovnik region is actually the Lapad peninsula, even though I’m from Dubrovnik myself. I’d pick it again because evenings are much quieter than in the Old Town, parking is easier, and you still have cafés, beaches and a seaside promenade on your doorstep with a quick bus ride into the center when you want the full “city buzz”.
When to visit Dubrovnik Region
Tourism in the Dubrovnik Region is very seasonal. The main season runs from late April to mid-October, with July and August bringing the hottest weather, the fullest beaches and the highest prices. Expect average summer highs around 28°C and warm sea temperatures, perfect for swimming and island-hopping. For detailed climate charts, see Weather in Dubrovnik.
If you prefer fewer crowds and slightly cooler temperatures, May, June, September and early October are ideal months to visit. Many hotels and restaurants are open, ferries and tours still run frequently, and you’ll have a better chance of enjoying the Old Town and nearby islands without heavy cruise-ship traffic.
Winter (November-March) can be atmospheric, with mild temperatures and almost no crowds in Dubrovnik, but some island services and smaller guesthouses close for the season. It’s best suited to city-break style visits and countryside walks rather than beach holidays.
I like the Dubrovnik region best in mid-late September, when the sea is still warm but the crowds have thinned and you can actually stroll the Stradun without bumping into tour groups every few steps. Even after living here for years, I’m still surprised by how many sunny, calm days we get then, especially compared to the heavy, humid heat of July and August.
How to get to and around Dubrovnik Region
Most visitors arrive by air at Dubrovnik Airport, located about 20 km south of the city near Čilipi. From there, shuttle buses and local buses run into Dubrovnik, and it’s easy to arrange private transfers to Cavtat, Konavle or the city’s main hotels.
If you’re driving, the Motorway A1 from northern Croatia now connects to the region via the Pelješac Bridge, so you can reach Dubrovnik without crossing the short coastal strip of Bosnia & Herzegovina at Neum. The final stretch is a scenic coastal road, with occasional hairpin bends and viewpoints over the islands.
Island-hopping is straightforward thanks to local ferries and catamarans. From Dubrovnik’s port, boats run to the Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud and Šipan) and further north towards Mljet, Korčula and other Dalmatian islands - see our guide to Dubrovnik ferries for current routes and tips. Always check official timetables for the latest schedules and prices before you travel.
To explore the mainland around Dubrovnik without a car, use local Libertas buses for Cavtat, Konavle villages and nearby coastal towns, or join one of the organised day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Pelješac.
Top things to do in Dubrovnik Region
- Walk Dubrovnik’s city walls. Start with the classic loop around the Old Town walls in Dubrovnik and explore more ideas in our guide to Dubrovnik attractions.
- Taste the wines of Pelješac. Head up the peninsula for Plavac Mali reds, fresh oysters from Ston Bay and long views over the islands - often combined with visits to Korčula or the Neretva valley on organised tours.
- Explore Mljet National Park. Spend a day walking or cycling around the lakes of Mljet, then swim in sheltered coves and visit the tiny island monastery of St Mary.
- Swim and kayak to Lokrum. Take a short boat ride from Dubrovnik’s old port to Lokrum Island for botanical gardens, rocky swimming spots and easy sea-kayaking along the coast.
- Sunbathe on Šunj Beach, Lopud. Walk or take a buggy over the hill on Lopud to reach sandy Šunj Beach - shallow, family-friendly and one of the region’s most popular spots for a lazy swim.
- Take a classic day trip. Use Best day trips from Dubrovnik to choose between Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls, Kotor Bay in Montenegro, Pelješac wineries, or island-hopping cruises.
Practical tips & money
- Book early in high season: July and August see peak demand, so reserve accommodation and key tours well ahead, especially in Old Town Dubrovnik and on Lopud.
- Pack for sun and stone: Bring good walking shoes for polished limestone streets and island paths, plus a hat and high SPF - shade can be limited on the walls and beaches.
- Card-friendly, but carry some cash: Cards are widely accepted, but small cafés, kiosks and rural stops may prefer cash. ATMs are easy to find in Dubrovnik and larger towns.
- Budget expectations: The Dubrovnik Region is one of Croatia’s pricier areas. You’ll pay a premium to sleep or eat inside the Old Town; staying in Lapad, Cavtat, Konavle or on the islands often gives better value.
- Check current prices: Ferry fares, entrance tickets and tour prices change regularly. Always confirm details on official websites or with operators just before you travel.
Highlights of Dubrovnik Region
Main attribute of Dubrovnik region is the Old town Dubrovnik surrounded by magnificent City Walls, but you shouldn't stop exploring! Dubrovnik region has much more to offer, starting from natural beauties such as National Park Mljet or Lokrum Island, gastronomy and oenology pleasures of Pelješac peninsula, or the pinnacle that sun & sea can offer: Šunj beach on Lopud Island.
Of course, there are much more sights that you could visit, so we strongly suggest that you explore each destination by your desire.
Dubrovnik Region FAQ
What is included in the Dubrovnik Region?
The Dubrovnik Region roughly matches Dubrovnik-Neretva County and includes the city of Dubrovnik, the Konavle countryside and Cavtat, the Pelješac peninsula, islands like Korčula, Mljet, Lastovo and the Elaphiti Islands, plus the Neretva Delta on the northern edge of the county.
How many days do you need in Dubrovnik Region?
If you only want to see Dubrovnik’s Old Town and take one boat trip, 3 days is enough. To mix the city with at least one island, a wine region and a cross-border day trip, plan 5-7 days in the region so you’re not rushing between places.
Is the Dubrovnik Region expensive?
Yes, this is one of Croatia’s more expensive areas, especially in July and August and for accommodation inside or near the Old Town. You can save by visiting in late spring or autumn, staying in Lapad, Cavtat, Konavle or on the islands, and using local bakeries and konobas instead of fine-dining restaurants every night.
Do I need a car to explore the Dubrovnik Region?
You can see a lot without a car by combining local buses, ferries and organised day trips from Dubrovnik. A car is useful if you want to explore Pelješac, the Neretva valley or small inland villages at your own pace, but driving and parking inside Dubrovnik’s historic core is not recommended.
When is the best time to visit Dubrovnik Region for swimming?
Sea temperatures are usually warmest from mid-June to late September, with July and August offering the most reliable beach weather. If you prefer fewer crowds but still want to swim comfortably, late June and early September are a great compromise.
Can I visit Bosnia & Herzegovina or Montenegro as a day trip?
Yes. Many tours run from Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia & Herzegovina, and to Kotor Bay and the Montenegrin coast. Bring your passport and check visa and entry requirements in advance, especially if you’re travelling with a non-EU passport.
Which islands are easiest to visit from Dubrovnik?
The closest are the Elaphiti Islands - Koločep, Lopud and Šipan - reached by frequent ferries from Dubrovnik. Lokrum is a very short boat hop from the Old Town port, while Mljet is further out but still manageable as a long day trip or an overnight stay.
Official resources referenced in this guide
- Dubrovnik Tourist Board
- Dubrovnik-Neretva County Tourist Board
- Croatian National Tourist Board - Dubrovnik
- Jadrolinija Ferries