The Blue Cave, also referred to as the “Blue Grotto” or “Modra špilja”, is a hypnotizing limestone cave with perfectly-placed illumination that make it look other-worldly.
There are various caves located around the Bisevo coastline, but the Blue Cave is simply the most stunning, visually. While hanging out in this picturesque cave is certainly fun, it’s really the entire experience of a great tour that will make it worth heading to.
We’ve done the hard part for you, doing our own research and going off of our own experience. Without further ado, we bring you the top Blue Cave tours available.
Best Blue Cave Tours
Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar | Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik | Private Blue Cave and Hvar - 5 Islands Tour | |
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Departure Point: | Variety Available | Lapadska obala 28 , Lapadska obala 28, 20000, Dubrovnik | Variety Available |
Departure Time: | 7:15 am | Variety Available | 9:00 am |
Duration: | 10 to 12 hours | 4 hours | 4 hours |
Includes: | Transport with speed boat, bottled water, use of Snorkeling equipment, guide, wind jackets, life jackets, safety equipment, tickets for the Blue Cave | Snacks, alcoholic Beverages, bottled water, use of snorkeling equipment, air-conditioned vehicle, fuel surcharge, soda | Bottled water, driver/guide, use of snorkel equipment (mask), private tour |
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Tours of the Blue Caves in Croatia For 2024
- Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar
- Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik
- Private Blue Cave and Hvar – 5 Islands Tour
- Blue Cave, Hvar & 5 Islands Speedboat Trip From Split
- Blue Cave and Coastline Caves Experience – Small Group from Split
- All-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour
- Private All-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour
Blue Cave Tour Reviews
1. Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar
- Duration: 10 to 12 hours
- Departure: `
- Departure Time: 7:15 am
- Includes: Transport with speed boat, bottled water, use of Snorkeling equipment English speaking, driver/guide, all taxes, fees, insurance and handling charges, wind jackets, life jackets on the boat, safety equipment, tickets for the Blue Cave
Let’s start things off with one of the most highly-rated tours out there, gaining raving reviews time after time. The Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar is a full-day tour that’s perfect for getting to know the area. You’ll not only see the Blue Cave, but zip around from various villages and islands for raging fun and exploration!
There are 4 optional departure points for you to choose from, ensuring there’s always a convenient location close to you. Depending on the one you select, you’ll leave around 7 am to ensure you have the entire day for the taking. Lasting anywhere from 10 to 12 hours, you’re sure to do a lot of sightseeing!
Hop on a brand-new speedboat and head out to your first stop: Biševo. This beautiful little island is where the Blue Cave calls home! You’ll be able to head inside the cave with your knowledgeable, professional guide who will tell you all about it and show you all that it has to offer!
Next up, you’ll be able to check out Komiža, a charming village on the island of Vis. Known for its incredible fishing and popular beach resort, you’ll take in picturesque bay views, eat some delicious breakfast or simply sip on some fresh-brewed coffee at the waterfront. It has a kind of bohemian, free-spirited feel to it and the locals are so friendly!
Explore Stiniva Cove located just 15 minutes from the Blue Cave by speedboat, and as it’s surrounded by steep sea cliffs it’s like a secluded little paradise you all get to enjoy.
Budikovac Island is where you and your group will don masks and snorkels to explore the clear blue waters all the way to the sandy bottom! Afterward, sip on a refreshing cocktail or fresh juice at a local beach bar known for its donkey!
Then, head over to the historical town of Hvar where you’ll have plenty of time to stroll around, grab some food at one of their many restaurants, shop, or even visit the Fortress or cathedral they’re known for.
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
2. Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departure: Lapadska obala 28 , Lapadska obala 28, 20000, Dubrovnik
- Departure Time: Variety Available
- Includes: Snacks, alcoholic Beverages, bottled water, use of snorkeling equipment, air-conditioned vehicle, fuel surcharge, soda
Perhaps the first tour sounded great to you, but you’re on the hunt for a shorter option. If so, then check out the Blue Cave Small-Group Boat Tour from Dubrovnik. This 4-hour tour will take you to a couple of different islands and various caves and will have you home before lunch!
You’ll start out by meeting with the rest of your group and tour guide in the morning so you can avoid most of the heat and crowds. Hotel pickup and drop-off is offered as well if within a 10-mile radius of the tour center, however, so that’s worth looking into.
That way you don’t have to deal with organizing transportation. Hop on a luxurious speedboat and stop first at Island Lopud. This absolutely stunning island is located right off the coast of Dalmatia, and is completely car-free!
This beautiful location features stone houses, rich gardens, ruined fortresses, sandy beaches, and a clear blue sea.
Everyone has to spend at least some time at Sunj Beach, which is one of the most stunning lagoons in the world! The shallow, warm water is green and blue, and is excellent for taking a dip! There are also various beach bars with mouthwatering snacks and meals for refueling.
Take a quick stop at Kolocep Island, where you’ll visit 3 secret caves located on the cliffside. As you swim through them, you’ll surely feel like you’re in a movie! Of course, we can’t forget Blue Cave either. This cave is the star of the show, and will instantly transport you back in time.
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
3. Private Blue Cave and Hvar – 5 Islands Tour
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departure: Variety Available
- Departure Time: 7:00 am
- Includes: Bottled water (ask skipper for it), driver/guide, use of snorkel equipment (mask), private tour
Next up, we have another full-day tour that will take you sailing along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, taking you to all kinds of natural wonders! The Private Blue Cave and Hvar – 5 Islands Tour is a fantastic way to see some of the top sights in Croatia, all in one day. Just make sure to pack your sunglasses and your swimming suit!
Leave bright and early to ensure you take full advantage of the day. Your professional guide will be there to answer any questions you may have. Thanks to a very small group size and a private tour, you’ll be able to receive personalized attention that you may not get in a larger group experience.
You’ll board a comfortable boat with your friendly, funny guide who is an expert on the area. Leaving early is great because you’ll almost always skip the long lines and crowds that appear later in the day and allow for more time on the water.
If you’re looking for a great tour for the entire family, we felt this one was perfect for people of all ages! First, stop at Cave Biševo, where you’ll see the legendary Blue Cave. The Adriatic Sea is known for its beauty, yet this cave tops everything else.
The silvery sunlight reflecting off the white cave floors through the clear blue water creates a cerulean oasis that can only be experienced firsthand. You’ll also get to see more of Biševo, where the last known habitat of the Monk Seal in Croatia is.
Next, you’ll check out an ancient fishing town called “Komiza”. Here, you can walk around, take photos of the beautiful architecture, flora and fauna, and enjoy a nice breakfast surrounded by incredible vistas.
After you fuel up, you’ll head to Budihovac Island, renowned for its secluded beach, untouched nature, and perfectly blue waters for swimming and snorkeling. Their beach bar is also a blast and ideal for kicking your feet up and sipping on a cool drink.
Make your way over to Hvar and check out the legendary Fortica fortress and another restaurant. Then, see Stiniva Cove which is home to some of the best beaches in all of Europe!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
4. Blue Cave, Hvar & 5 Islands Speedboat Trip From Split
- Duration: 10 hours
- Departure: Trumbićeva obala 2 , Trumbićeva obala 2, 21000, Split
- Departure Time: 7:00 am
- Includes: Boat ride, bottled water, driver/guide/skipper, wind jackets for the boat, WiFi on board
One of the best ways to see the Croatian coast is by speedboat. It’s fun, and it’ll take you to places quickly that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to access! If that sounds like a good time to you, check out the Blue Cave, Hvar & 5 Islands Speedboat Trip from Split Tour!
You’ll meet up with your guide early in the morning so you can skip the crowds and have the water to yourself! Hop on a brand-new speedboat that will zip around and ensure you see everything you want. The skipper is incredibly knowledgeable and makes sure that the safety of everyone is top priority.
With wi-fi on board, you can keep in contact with friends and family, and share your adventures in real-time! Should you need one, they even provide wind jackets for the boat and water bottles upon request! Your first stop of the day is at the Blue Cave, which is an electric blue natural phenomenon that’s a must-see.
As it’s early and you have quite the adventure ahead, you’ll stop at Komiža for a coffee break. This time is great for relaxing and getting a bit of energy before heading out to Stiniva Cove.
At the gorgeous, pristine Stiniva Cove, you’ll have some time to swim and snorkel. It’s invigorating, and perfect if you’ve never been snorkeling before due to the clear, calm waters. If you’ve tired yourself out from swimming around, you’ll enjoy relaxing on a sandy beach at Budikovac Island.
On your way to Hvar, you’ll pass by the beautiful Pakleni Islands which feature crystal-clear green-and-blue waters and are located opposite the entrance to Hvar harbor. Once you get to Hvar, you’ll have a few hours at your leisure to do whatever you please! If you’re a history buff or architecture lover, you’ll love it here! St.
Stephen’s Cathedral and Square, the Franciscan Monastary, and the Venetian Loggia and Clock Tower are just a few of the top sights we recommend. Make sure to grab lunch at one of the many scrumptious restaurants around town!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
5. Blue Cave and Coastline Caves Experience – Small Group from Split
- Duration: 8 hours
- Departure: Trumbićeva obala 10 , Trumbićeva obala 10, 21000, Split
- Departure Time: 7:45 am
- Includes: Bottled water, professional guides, use of snorkeling equipment, round-trip by speedboat, Blue Cave entrance ticket
If you’re looking to explore a ton of different Croatian islands in one day, then you’re in the right place. The Blue Cave and Coastline Caves Experience – Small Group from Split tour is the way to go!
With 8 hours packed full of adventure, swimming in pristine locations, and seeing incredible historical sights, you’re sure to do this tour more than once! This one will have you zipping around the blue waters in a RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), that is just a ton of fun and plain looks cool!
As you can probably imagine, they aren’t the biggest out there and are instead designed for speed and maneuvering quickly. That means that this tour allows for small groups, meaning more personalized attention for you!
Before you start out, your skipper will offer a safety briefing and answer any questions you may have before setting out. While you will be starting out early in the morning, it means you won’t have to deal with lines at the ever-popular Blue Cave.
On your way to the Blue Cave, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for any dolphins and sea turtles! Your skipper will tell you all about the history of the Adriatic coast, flora and fauna local to the area, and personal anecdotes.
Arrive and sail into the Blue Cave, taking time to admire the incredible structure and blue aura that fills the cave. You’ll also have some time to see the Monk Seal Cave.
Then, pass the Green Cave located on Ravnik Island. Just like the Blue Cave named for its color, the Green Cave is filled with an emerald hue due to sunlight reflective off the interior as well!
Next up is the Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island, which is an absolutely fantastic shade of turquoise! You can opt to take a dip, snorkel, lay on the well-kept beach, or take a leisurely walk around the island.
Don’t forget checking out the historic Hvar Town where you’ll see a medieval fortress, shops full of fun souvenirs, and charming coffee houses.
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
6. All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour
- Duration: 11 to 12 hours
- Departure: Split Sea Tours , Obala Lazareta 1, 21000, Split
- Departure Time: 7:15 am
- Includes: Boat (37′ aluminum powerboat), safety equipment for adults/children, taxes, fees and handling charges, brokerage fee, bottled water, breakfast, driver/guide, captain, hostess, live commentary on board, lunch, coffee/tea, alcoholic beverages, restroom on board, WiFi on board, use of snorkeling equipment, towels, soda
Are you in Croatia and would just like a tour that seems to cover everything? If so, then check out the All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour! This one lasts 11 to 12 hours, but you’re going to see so much that you won’t need any other tour (if you have the time)!
You’ll meet up with the rest of your group and your guide at 7:15 am so you can make the most of your day. The first stop of the day will be to the Blue Cave, as it’s the one that draws the most people and gets crowded the fastest.
Spend 20 minutes here checking out the blue depths of this magical cave, as well as another cave close by. Next, you’ll head over to the picturesque fishing village of Komiža which was where the second Mamma Mia! Was filmed.
There are tons of charming cottages, tiny homes, beautiful gardens, and is just a wonderful place to walk around. You’ll take a coffee break here and be able to spend this time as you’d like.
Next, you’ll stop at Milna and eat a delicious lunch at a summer home, located in a secluded bay with a sand beach. It’s not a private bay, but it may as well be as you’ll have it all to yourselves! The sand beach is perfect for relaxing on after eating, too!
Before heading to Hvar, you’ll stop at Vis to the Blue (or Green) lagoon to swim! At Hvar, you have a couple of hours of sightseeing to do, or use it to shop around!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
7. Private All-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour
- Duration: 8 to 12 hours
- Departure: Split Sea Tours , Obala Lazareta 1, 21000, Split
- Departure Time: 8 am
- Includes: Boat (brand new 37′ aluminum powerboat), snorkeling gear, safety equipment, towels, taxes, fees and handling charges, brokerage fee, bottled water, breakfast, all activities, driver/guide, live commentary on board, lunch, coffee and/or tea, alcoholic beverages, WiFi, restroom on board, private transportation, pick-up and drop-off by speedboat if available and within 10 miles
If you’re looking for something similar to the tours we’ve covered so far but are looking for something more luxurious, we have just the ticket for you. The Private All-Inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour takes you on a private charter for you and the rest of your group up to 13 passengers.
With transfers to and from your hotel, breakfast and lunch, and snorkeling gear included you have all the makings for a great time. With a captain, host, and skipper, you can rest assured all your needs will be taken care of. The staff is incredibly friendly, personable, and professional.
You can tell that they all have extensive experience and make sure that everyone is safe and is having a great time. Any questions or requests you may have, just as the crew! Board the charter, and head off to Cave Biševo and the Blue Cave first. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy some breakfast and beautiful sea views.
Once you arrive, you’ll be escorted inside by the official government company, “Nautical Center Komiža”. They’ll make sure you learn everything about the cave, and try to avoid crowds as much as possible.
Next, head to Komiža island, which is just 15 or so minutes by boat. It’s a fantastic place to stop for a moment and take a good swim in these refreshing, beautiful waters. You can also choose to go for a coffee break, go sightseeing, or simply stroll around and enjoy the natural beauty.
Make a short journey to Budikovac island, where the crew will select one of the less crowded bays and/or coves and anchor so you can enjoy the water! Choose to just go swimming, snorkeling (all gear is provided), or lay out and soak up the sun! Music and drinks are plentiful on the boat and always makes for a fun time!
We can’t forget Hvar, which is famous for its varied history, interesting buildings and ruins, and beautiful homes. The crew is helpful in offering recommendations and stories about the area.
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Dubrovnik and Split Tour Guide
Getting There
Until relatively recently, there were no direct flights from the US to Croatia and you’d have to have a connecting flight from a major European city. Now, that’s definitely not the case, as Lufthansa, Delta, United, British Airways, Air France, KLM, Swiss, Qatar Airlines, and US Airways all offer direct flights to Dubrovnik.
To get to Split from Dubrovnik, the easiest way is by plane. The plane ride is about 40 minutes, so it’s not bad at all.
Getting Around
Getting around Dubrovnik is quite easy, thanks to their solid public transportation system. While there aren’t any trams, trains, or metros like you may find in larger cities, it’s still very accessible.
Bus – Routes 1A, 1B, and 1C are probably the ones you’ll use the most, as they connect the harbor and bus station at Gruž to the Pile Gate. The latter being one of the main entrances into the Old Town (which is probably where you’ll spend the most time). Route 4 is also a solid option as it services most hotels and ends around Hotel Dubrovnik Palace.
Taxis – Located right outside both Pile and Ploče gates, along with Gruž, the bus station, and Lapad. You can grab an Uber too, if you prefer an app-based service.
Car – We don’t recommend this option, for various reasons. One, due to the high quantity of tourists running around, you don’t want to deal with the chaos it can cause due to the one-way system. Two, parking is pretty expensive, especially during high season (summertime). Three, Old Town is pedestrianized anyway.
Getting around Split is quite different, but there are still many reliable options.
Car – This is a little bit easier and less stressful than it is driving in Dubrovnik. However, it’s definitely going to be more expensive to rent a car than to take public transport or even call a cab.
Bus – Called Promet Split, the local bus system is a bit difficult as there’s no English translation for anything. However, it’s super affordable and you can get all the way to the medieval town of Trogir for less than 4 bucks!
Walking – If you’re going to be hanging around Old Town, you’ll find that just walking is enough. It’s also incredibly efficient, as the tourist-heavy areas can get packed with cars. Not to mention, Marmontova Street and Riva are both car-free so you will want to walk here anyway.
Ferry – If you want to go to any nearby islands, you can simply take a ferry from the Old Town terminal.
Taxi – Taxis are pretty cheap anyway, so if you don’t feel like walking back to your hotel it’s a nice alternative. Even longer rides will still probably clock in at less than 10 bucks. Uber is an option as well, but prices can vary quite a bit.
Where to Stay
There are a lot of great places in Dubrovnik, but as it’s so spread out, you will really want to focus on what your priorities are and stay around there.
Old Town – Old Town is our personal favorite, and is where you’ll find incredibly well-preserved medieval structures like churches, squares, and a naturally beautiful background for it all. Boutique Hotel Stari Grad and The Pucic Palace are ultra-luxe, while Palacio Celeste and Bota Palace are nice middle-of-the-road options. Leonarda Baroque House and Villa Monte Santo are absolutely gorgeous and very affordable.
Ploče – Ploče is very close to Old Town’s southern entrance, and features some of the most impressive hotels in the city. Not only that, but you have great museums, a cable car up to the summit of Mount Srd, and amazing coastal views. Apartments Fortes Fortuna, Skywalker Oasis, Villa Paulina, Hotel Excelsior, and Villa Dubrovnik are all luxurious options located very close from Old Town.
Pile – If you’re a history junkie, you’ll love the incredible medieval wall views, along with an old fort and various beaches. Just about any kind of budget flies here and you can grab a bus to any part of town from Pile. Not to mention, the hotels tend to be more affordable. Atento Apartments, Room PlaceForYou, and The Peak of The 13th Century Walls are all stunning hotel options.
Lapad – If you’re going with the entire family, you may want to check out Lapad first. It not only holds the longest beach in all of Dubrovni, but has beautiful seafront hotels, with buses that’ll take you right to Old Town.
As the second-biggest city in the country, it balances modern with the old perfectly. There are a few neighborhoods that we recommend.
Old Town – Old Town is always the favorite, especially if it’s your first time here. You’ll be close to all the main attractions, great restaurants, cafes, and activities. Cornaro Hotel is the best luxury option, while Centro di Centri Rooms is a nice middle-of-the-road, and Ćiri Biri Bela is great if you’re on a budget.
Radunica – If you’re on a budget, check out Radunica. It’s super close to Old Town, is absolutely beautiful with stone walls, stunning architecture, and has many solid hotels. Ellure Luxury Suites and Marvie Hotel & Health are best for luxury options. House Sandra is a nice middle option, and Apartments Veky 3 is the go-to for a budget option.
Bacvice – If you’re in search of beachside living, it’s hard to beat Bacvice. Located just 15 minutes walking from Old Town, you have the best of both worlds! Not to mention, if you’re into nightlife, you’ll have tons of beach bars and clubs nearby. Check out Hotel Park Split for high-end stays, Best Location Rooms for a mid-range option, and Apartment Simone or Dreams Apartment Bacvice if on a budget.
Restaurants and Eating Out
Kopun – If you’re looking for traditional Croatian food, Kopun is a top option. There are tons of old recipes, ensuring that you’ll always have something new to try.
Konoba Jezuite – This breathtaking location is perfect for gathering with friends and making new ones! Konoba is a word referring to a place of getting together, and that’s exactly what this is. It’s a very traditional, beautiful experience on a lovely terrace and gorgeous buildings!
Orsan – If you’re by the sea, you have to enjoy the seafood and views! Located right on the water, it’s fresh and perfect for day or night. Even if you’re not a seafood fan, there are delicious homemade cakes and vegetarian dishes available!
Lokanda Peskarija – Great for any budget, it is located in the old local harbor, taking you back in time. You’ll find, as the name suggests, fish and seafood dishes and black risotto.
Nautica – In the mood for fine dining or date night? Then check out Nautica, with phenomenal views of the Adriatic Sea, along with 2 fortresses!
Split is no different than Dubrovnik, in that the vast amount of restaurants essentially serve the same thing: pizza, pasta, risotto, or it’s a grill. Traditional food here is Mediterranean for the most part, but there are some with Balkan influences.
Fine Dining – Check out Zrno soli for beautiful views close to the beach, amazing food, and friendly locals. Kadena features interesting dishes with twists on traditional food. Konoba Nikola has fresh seafood, and is located in a more hidden area.
Mid-Scale – Konoba Fetivi is a tavern-type space with regional dishes mainly consisting of seafood, though some meat dishes are offered. It’s very small and family-run, but the atmosphere is hard to beat. Plus, their outdoor terrace is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening. Villa Spiza is another little charmer located in a tiny alley. It seats less than 15 people, but the flavors are rich and authentic.
Wine Bars – There are tons here, but MoNika is particularly cozy with friendly staff (and the owner!). You’ll also get some delicious tapas to pair with!
Nightlife and Entertainment
There are a ton of bars in Dubrovnik, though a bit lacking on the club side. However, you can find plenty an underground rave located in an old fortress!
Revelin Culture Club – Speaking of fortresses, this one is a 16th-century one with insane party vibes! If you want to go all out with bottles of champagne and dance until daylight, this is the place to do it.
Copacabana Beach – This is a place for partying at just about any hour, but is great if you are looking to sip on cocktails during daylight.
Lazareti – Live DJs are found almost every night here! You have the main building with DJs and live acts, a dancefloor, a balcony with a bar, and an open courtyard.
Latino Club Fuego – It may seem a bit random, but you can find all kinds of mainstream dance music here, along with some live Croatian rock-pop bands, and more.
Banje Beach Club – You can get here either by land or sea. In the daytime, it serves as a fine dining restaurant, and at night, a cocktail bar club!
D’Vino – Perhaps you’re looking for a more intimate setting or are simply looking for delicious wines. You’ll find both here, and be able to try some of the countries best vinos.
Cave Bar More – If you ever had the desire to have some drinks in a cave, this one’s for you. You have to try it at least once!
Split is definitely a party town, with tons of options available!
Charlie’s Bar – All the backpackers seem to go here, making it a great place to meet other travelers and people from around the world. If you’re looking for cheap but strong drinks, here you go.
Square/Lvxor – You could always take your own drinks and sit in the main town square and enjoy the local company and live music.
Gaga Bar – This small bar features incredible cocktails with indoor/outdoor seating (and standing) that’s always full of people!
Fabrique – This trendy place is relatively new, with a more upscale vibe. If you’re looking for a nice cocktail accompanied by some delicious BBQ, you have to check it out.
Inbox Club – If you’re a fan of electronic music and massive parties, check out Inbox. It’s located right on the water and is always an adventure!
Central the Club – The kind of club you’d expect to find in Miami, it sports an enormous disco ball, lasers, with the possibility to reserve tables.
Weather
Dubrovnik definitely has seasons, with short, warm summers and long, cold, wet winters. The summers can get pretty hot, but in September and October you can still enjoy warm weather without it being too hot or cold. Split is pretty similar, though it has hotter summers and wetter winters!
Attractions
The Old City Walls – While they’ve always been a popular tourist attraction, they exploded in popularity after being featured in the huge TV series, Game of Thrones. Originally built in the 10th century, they were made to protect against invaders. Here, you’ll find the Bokar Tower, Fort Lovrjenac, Revelin Fortress, and Minceta Tower.
Walk Through Straden – You’ll find some of the most picturesque views here, from cafes and restaurants, to the white limestone paving itself that dates back to the 1400s!Make sure to check out the War Photo Limited located just steps away.
Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury – Built on top of the site of the original cathedral that dated back to the 6th century (unfortunately destroyed by earthquakes), this Baroque-style cathedral features 3 aisles, apses, and incredible interior décor.
City Gates – The infamous Pile Gate has been the main entrance for hundreds of years, and used to be surrounded by a moat with a drawbridge built in the 1500s! The Ploce Gate is also very interesting!
Fort Lovrijenac – Often referred to as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar”, it sits 37 meters above the Adriatic Sea and managed to defend itself quite well against various Venetian sieges starting in the 11th century. With thick walls, 2 drawbridges, and 3 terraces, it’s now used for festivals and theatrical performances at times.
Split also has a ton of sites to see!
Diocletian’s Palace – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is incredibly well-preserved and its basement was even one of the set locations for Game of Thrones! Protected by at towers located at each of the 4 entrances, it is enormous. You’ll also find the Temple of Jupiter, Cathedral of St. Domnius, and Brace Radica Square here.
Ivan Mestrovic Gallery – This amazing Croatian artist started his residence in the 1930s, and his gallery began a bit over 20 years later. It includes 86 statues consisting of marble, stone, bronze, wood, and gypsum, and there are plenty of drawings.
Marjan Stairway and Forest Park – Want to burn some calories without going to the gym? Hike up the 314 steps to enjoy the wonderful Telegrin vantage point. The forest park has enormous pine trees, and relaxing walking trails, with incredible views.
Split Archaeological Museum – If you’re into history, you have to make a visit here. Founded in 1820, it houses over 150,000 items including stone carvings from Salona, Greco Hellenistic ceramics, Roman glass, tons of ancient clay lamps, and much more.
Storm Klis Fortress – This is another one that made an appearance in Game of Thrones, located on a limestone bluff. The small museum on-site teaches you all about its brutal past, and they even let you climb over fortifications inside!
Tips
- Be prepared for crowds. This goes for Dubrovnik and Split. There will be crowds, especially in the summertime. If you go in September or October, you’ll still have nice weather with much fewer tourists.
- Try to get out of the Old City. There is so much beauty outside of the town centers, even though you definitely need to spend time there as well.
- Give yourself enough time. There’s a ton to do, like villages and islands located all around these cities.
- Make sure to tip in restaurants. Just like in the US, 10 to 20 percent is appropriate. However, feel free to tip more than that if you’d like!
Sites Seen
Tour Guides
Value
The Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar is our Editor's Choice for the best Blue Cave Tour