Visiting Dubrovnik? Perfect, you’ll have a great time. Want to have even better? Add some activity into your holidays in Dubrovnik. It doesn’t have to be anything adventurous, a simple zen kayaking session around the city walls will do just fine. You, see, adventure and activity are a great way to add some spice to your stay in Dubrovnik. It’s a beautiful city to explore, but you will get tired of just walking through the Old Town soon enough and want to try something else. We bring you our selection of the 5 best activities in Dubrovnik.
We have been adventure guides in Croatia for a long time. We know how easy it is for someone to enjoy activities such as these. Dubrovnik is the most visited destination in Croatia. As such, it’s full of all kinds of opportunities and all sorts of adventure tours and day trips. We suggest trying at least one of these and make some great memories that are not related only to the Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
Our selection of the Best activities in Dubrovnik We will keep it simple and list only 5 best activities in Dubrovnik. Keep in mind that there are much more of them, and if you don’t find anything you like on this list, keep searching, we’re sure you’ll find the best fit for you. Also, this is our selection of the tours and we’re going to update it as the new ones emerge or as we try some other of the Dubrovnik activities. We did our best to include various experiences, both on land and on the sea, and we believe we managed to make a list of 5 experiences you have to try when staying in Dubrovnik. Let’s start.
1. Dubrovnik Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling We are starting this list with kayaking since kayak tours were the main ones in our own adventure agency in Croatia and we love kayaking as an activity. Croatia is a country with beautiful sea and kayaking is the perfect activity to enjoy the crystal clear Adriatic Sea and explore some of the best coastline features around Dubrovnik.
Why Choose It?
Kayaking gives you the chance to explore Dubrovnik’s coast from the water and to experience the city walls from a different perspective.
Most kayaking tours in Dubrovnik include snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and discovering secluded beaches.
The tours often include a stop at the famous Betina Cave, a beautiful beach accessible only by sea.
What to Expect:
Kayaking in Dubrovnik is typically a half-day tour with all equipment provided, including kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and snorkeling gear.
These tours are led by professional guides who will tell you more about Dubrovnik’s history and natural landmarks.
Most kayak tours include refreshments, swimming and snorkeling stops.
Tip:
Bring a waterproof camera and document the stunning views and underwater images.
2. Dubrovnik Countryside ATV Tour We’re continuing our adventure on 4 wheels. Dubrovnik ATV tour is a great way to explore inland parts of Dubrovnik and enjoy some of the best panoramic views of this magical city.
Experience the Countryside:
ATV tours are a great way to escape the crowded city and explore the natural side of the Dubrovnik area.
You’ll ride through scenic trails, local villages, and vineyards. This is the best tour for experiencing the rural side of Croatia in a more adventurous manner.
Highlights:
The tour often includes stops at panoramic viewpoints on Srđ Hill where you’ll be able to capture some stunning photos of Dubrovnik and nearby Elaphiti Islands.
Tastings of local products are included in some of these tours and you can try local products such as olive oil, wine, and other traditional Croatian dishes.
ATV tours in Dubrovnik are suitable for beginners, and safety instructions and equipment are provided at the beginning. Tours are also accompanied by the professional guide.
Good to Know:
Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes if going on such a tour.
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen as the sun can get pretty strong during the day.
3. Blue Cave and Green Cave Small Group Tour to Lopud After the ATV adventure, it’s time to get back to the Adriatic Sea once again. This time we’re going to visit the Elaphiti Islands, which are located near Dubrovnik, and explore some of the best places located in this archipelago.
Why It’s Special:
A small group tour such as this offers a personalized experience. Through tours such as this you get the chance to explore the Blue Cave and Green Cave on Koločep Island.
These caves are famous for their mesmerizing colors that are created by sunlight reflecting off the water and cave walls, usually during the midday.
What to Do:
Swim and snorkel in the clear waters of the Blue Cave .
Visit the Green Cave, where you can also experience the unique light effects.
Šunj Beach on Lopud Island, one of the rare sandy beaches in Croatia, is also part of the many tours to Elaphiti Islands.
Additional Perks:
Many of these tours include free use of snorkeling equipment and offer a light lunch on board. Check whether it’s included before you book the tour.
4. Sunset Sea Kayaking and Wine in Dubrovnik Kayaking in Dubrovnik is one of the most common activities and you’ll see a lot of kayakers in the waters around Dubrovnik if visiting in the summer months. We already included kayaking tour in this article, but in this one you get the chance to paddle in the sunset and observe one of the most magical sunsets you’ll ever see.
A Unique Experience:
A great way of combining adventure and relaxation through a sunset sea kayaking tour followed by wine tasting.
Paddle near Dubrovnik’s city walls, experience the golden glow and stunning views of the old town.
Highlights:
The tour often includes a stop at a secluded beach or cave where you can swim and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After the kayaking adventure , unwind with a glass of local wine, paired with Croatian appetizers.
Best For:
Sunset kayaking tour is perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening activity and for anyone who wants to combine adventure with relaxation.
5. Zipline Experience in Dubrovnik We’re ending this list with nothing less than flying. Sure, you’re attached to the steel wire, but the real feel of flying is still there. There are 2 ziplines in Dubrovnik and they are some of the unique things to do in Dubrovnik. Either one you choose, you’ll have a great time and beautiful views.
Feel the Adrenaline:
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea through one of the Dubrovnik’s ziplines.
One of the ziplines in Dubrovnik is located on Srđ Hill, near the cable car station, and another one (longer) is located just a bit south of Dubrovnik.
What to Expect:
You’ll get all the necessary equipment and the professional guides will make sure you have a safe and pleasurable experience.
Zipline in Dubrovnik is an adventure suitable for beginners.
Bring an action camera and record your ride.
Safety Tips:
Follow all safety instructions from the guides and don’t worry about anything. These steel cables are very safe.
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid loose items that can fall out during the ride.
What to Bring for These Activities in Dubrovnik If you are going to try any of these best activities in Dubrovnik, it’s important to bring appropriate clothing and other accessories. Here’s what to think about:
Comfortable Clothing: Dress for outdoor activities and bring swimwear for the water-based activities.Protective Gear: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are essential for sunny days. Don’t let yourself end the perfect adventure with sunburns.Appropriate Footwear: Sneakers for ATV and ziplining, water shoes (if you have them) for kayaking and boat tours .
How to Book Booking of almost any of these activities can be done in 2 main ways – online or through the agency. Both ways are good and choose the one that’s most convenient for you.
Online Platforms: Many of these tours can be booked through platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide . We included some tour links in this article.Local Booking: If you’re already in Dubrovnik, you’ll see many agencies offering activities mentioned here or similar experiences so you can also book this way.Private Tours: If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour in Dubrovnik and enjoy all the amenities this kind of tour has.
Additional Tips for Enjoying Dubrovnik’s Best Activities Here are a few more final considerations to think about before booking any of these best activities in Dubrovnik:
Stay Hydrated: All of these activities are outdoors and in the sun so staying hydrated is essential, especially during the summer.Plan Ahead: Book the most popular activities in Dubrovnik in advance since the spots can fill up rather quickly.Check the Weather: Some tours are best enjoyed in nice weather, so always check the weather and be prepared that some of them can be canceled if the weather is bad (which is rare, but still possible).Respect Nature and Local Culture: Follow local guidelines and nature when exploring natural sites like caves and protected areas. Always follow the Leave No Trace Principles when enjoying the outdoor places.
Before You Venture to the adventurous side of Dubrovnik So what do you think? Are you ready to add some adventure into your holidays in Dubrovnik ? We believe it’s a great thing to do to make them even better. Dubrovnik offers some unique activities and it would be a shame not to try at least one of them. Either one of the best activities in Dubrovnik you choose to enjoy, we hope you’ll have a great time.
