Lokrum Island: Plan the Best Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Lokrum Island might just be one of the most underrated spots near Dubrovnik. This little paradise in the Adriatic Sea is quiet, wild, green, and full of surprises. We spent the day there, and I was amazed by how beautiful it was. And what’s even better—it’s so close to the city of Dubrovnik, just a short ferry ride away.

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Visiting the island of Lokrum is the perfect day trip to escape the crowds of Dubrovnik for a little while. The island has a mix of nature, laid-back spots to relax, history, and a little fun—especially for Game of Thrones fans (yes, the official Iron Throne is here as well!).

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything we did on the island of Lokrum, how to get there, what to bring, and why it’s 100% worth visiting if you’re exploring the coast of Dubrovnik.

Looking for quick Hotel suggestions? Here are the top picks:

Affordable Stay: SUNce Palace with free parking
Ideal for Location: Dominus Rooms
Best Luxury Hotel: Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
Top View: Hotel Excelsior
Great for Families: Rixos Premium Belek

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Unique Experiences in Dubrovnik

Table of Contents

Croatia, Dubrovnik, Lokrum — Croatia, The Beautiful Lokrum Island

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik?

A Little Bit About Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is small, but there’s a lot packed into it. It took us about 2 hours to walk around the entire island. The whole place is protected as a nature reserve. There are no cars or hotels—just walking trails, old ruins, wild beaches, and lots of open space. It feels like a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Dubrovnik.

The island has a pretty interesting history too. It was once home to Benedictine monks, and you can still visit the ancient ruins of their 11th century Benedictine Monastery.

For Game of Thrones fans, several spots around the island were used as filming locations, including parts of the monastery, cloister gardens, Fort Royal, and other scenic areas along the coast. Inside the Benedictine monastery, you’ll also find the famous Iron Throne replica for the ultimate photo op.

There’s also a big botanical garden that you can walk around and explore. I also got to see the famous saltwater lake that is also known as the Dead Sea. But my favorite part was hands down tons of wild peacocks just roaming around like they own the place—it made the island feel so lively and magical.

Visiting Lokrum Island felt like stepping into a mix of nature and history all in one place. Standing on the rocky coast and looking back at the city of Dubrovnik had the most incredible views.

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How to Get to Lokrum Island

A Lokrum Island day trip is one of the easiest and best things to do from Dubrovnik. This is a small island and just a short ferry ride away from the Old Port. The ferry journey is about 15 minutes. The ride itself is beautiful, with great views of the city of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea.

Round-trip Lokrum ferry tickets cost €30 for adults and €5 for kids under 18 when we visited. The price also includes entry to the island’s nature reserve. You can buy your tickets right at the ferry port in Dubrovnik Old Town at the ticket kiosks. But I suggest getting there a little early in high season because it can get busy. You can even book your tickets in advance if you want to save time.

What I loved about this island is how quick and easy it is to get to. Even if you’re short on time, you’ll still have enough time to enjoy it as a half-day trip. We spent some time swimming, walking through the gardens, and then exploring the monastery before heading back. Just be sure to check the schedule for the last ferry, as no one is allowed to stay overnight.

If you want everything planned for you, there’s also the option to join a Lokrum Island tour, which usually includes a guide or combines your visit with other scenic spots along the coast of Dubrovnik.

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Best Day Trip from Dubrovnik: 7 Must-Do’s on Lokrum Island

1. Walk Around the Entire Lokrum Island

This is a pretty small island, and one of the things we really enjoyed was just walking the trails that loop around it. Depending on how fast you go (and how many times you stop), it takes about an hour or two to walk the entire island. It’s definitely worth taking your time and stopping at the little coves, shaded spots, and viewpoints along the way.

We passed through parts of the forest with pine trees and old olive groves. The mix of forest, rocky beaches, and incredible views when you look back at the city of Dubrovnik makes it such a beautiful walk—especially for nature lovers.

If you’re up for a bit of a climb, follow the marked path to Fort Royal, which sits at the island’s highest point on the northern side. It’s about a half hour uphill walk, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes! The effort is definitely worth it, though. The views from the top are some of the best you’ll get of Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian coast.

Walking around is a great way to explore the entire Lokrum Island and see just how much it has to offer.

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2. Visit the Benedictine Monastery

The Benedictine Monastery is one of the main highlights on Lokrum Island, and I really enjoyed exploring it! This 11th century building is beautifully preserved, with peaceful and gorgeous cloister gardens that felt like a hidden oasis. These gardens were also a filming location for Game of Thrones, which makes them even more interesting to walk through.

You can also see parts of the ancient ruins here, giving you a glimpse into the island’s long history. There’s also a great bit of history here—King Richard the Lionheart was shipwrecked on Lokrum in the 12th century, and he built a church here to give thanks for being rescued.

Inside, I walked through the small museum, where I learned more about the island’s past and nature—it was really cool to see!

And for Game of Thrones fans, (inside the Benedictine Monastery) this is where you can actually sit on the official Iron Throne—it’s a replica, but still such a fun photo stop before continuing your day.

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3. Explore the Botanical Gardens

I loved visiting and walking through the Botanical Gardens! They’ve been here since the 19th century and are full of all kinds of tropical, Mediterranean, and exotic plants. A few species were even brought here from the Canary Islands. The paths are shady and quiet, and it’s the perfect spot to slow down and cool off—especially on a hot summer day.

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4. Swim in the Dead Sea

One of the most unique swimming spots on Lokrum Island is the Dead Sea—a small salt lake that’s kind of hidden on the island. The calm waters are warm and clear, and it’s the perfect place to float. It’s also great for kids since there are no waves.

There are rocky areas around the edge, so I recommend bringing swim shoes. The whole area of the Dead Sea is surrounded by trees, giving it plenty of shade if you need a break from the sun.

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5. Spot the Wild Peacocks on Lokrum Island

My favorite part of exploring the island was seeing the wild peacocks that roam freely. They’re all over the whole island! You will see some crossing the walking paths, sitting on high on tree branches or lounging in the shade. It gives the island such a lively and magical feel.

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6. Lokrum Beach and the Rocky Shores

Lokrum doesn’t have sandy beaches, but the rocky shores are still perfect for swimming and tanning. Some spots even feel like beautiful beaches with clear turquoise water and plenty of space to stretch out on the rocks.

There are ladders in certain areas to help you get in and out of the sea, and the views of the Adriatic Sea and the coast of Dubrovnik are just incredible!

There’s also a designated area for a nudist beach on the far end of the island. It’s well-marked and easy to avoid if it’s not your thing, but it’s there if you want a quieter and more secluded spot.

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7. Have Lunch on Lokrum Island

There are a few casual places around the island where you can grab lunch, a drink or ice cream to cool off. The vibe is super chill and relaxed, with outdoor seating and tons of shade. And the best part? You’ll definitely spot the wild peacocks wandering by while you eat—it’s like getting food and a show.

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What to Pack and Know Before You Go

Lokrum Island is a nature reserve, so there are no cars or overnight stays allowed. A few things to keep in mind before your visit to help you have the best time on the island:

Bathing suit & towel – for the beautiful beaches, rocky shores, and the Dead Sea
Sunscreen & hat – there is some shade, but you’ll be in the sun a lot if you explore the whole island
Plenty of water – you can buy drinks there, but it’s handy to have your own
Snacks or picnic – if you don’t plan to eat at one of the cafes
Water shoes – helpful for rocky areas and getting in/out of the sea
Comfortable shoes – for walking to places like Fort Royal, the highest point on the island
Check the Lokrum Island ferry timetable – once the last boat leaves, you can’t stay overnight

Final Thoughts: Is Lokrum Island Worth Visiting?

In my opinion, Lokrum Island is absolutely worth visiting! This little island is such a perfect place for a break from the busy crowds of Dubrovnik. It’s only a 15-minute ferry ride away, which makes it a super easy quick day trip. You can explore pretty walking trails, swim in clear water, and visit the cloister gardens at the Benedictine Monastery.

You can spend a full day here or just a few hours. Either way, Lokrum Island is a great spot to relax, take photos, and see a different side of Dubrovnik without going far.

For me, it’s easily one of the best trips from Old Town Dubrovnik.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Dubrovnik

When is the Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik?

Choosing the right time to visit can really shape your Dubrovnik experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

April, May, September and October: Shoulder Season

The shoulder season is a great time to visit. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. You’ll have enough time to enjoy the city without feeling rushed, and it’s easier to find tables at restaurants and explore popular sites like the City Walls and Lokrum Island without the peak season hustle.

June – August: Peak Season

The summer months are the busiest in Dubrovnik, with long days, hot weather, and lots of tourists. This is when the city is at its liveliest, but also the most crowded and expensive. If you visit during this time, plan to start your sightseeing early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and big crowds. You’ll want to book hotels, restaurants, and cable car tickets well in advance.

November – March: Off-season

The off-season or low season is much quieter, and some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or have limited hours. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds and don’t mind cooler weather, this can be a quiet time to explore the Old Town. Just keep in mind that swimming spots and boat trips like might not be available during these months.

How to get around Dubrovnik?

The best way to get around Dubrovnik, especially the old town, is on foot. The Old Town is compact, and most of the main sights are within walking distance. You really don’t need public transport to explore the city center. The stone streets, narrow alleyways, and scenic viewpoints are best enjoyed by walking.

You’ll likely enter through Pile Gate, but there’s also Ploče Gate on the opposite side, which leads you to the eastern entrance of Old Town and the outer walls. Both gates are easy walking routes that connect you to the city’s main attractions.

Public buses are available if you’re staying further out, but once you’re inside the Old Town, walking is the easiest and most enjoyable way to see Dubrovnik.

Is Dubrovnik safe to visit?

In my experience, Dubrovnik felt like one of the safest places I’ve ever visited. It’s the kind of city where people leave their bags and belongings on the beach without worrying. I didn’t see or hear of any pickpockets, which is very different from places like Rome and Paris, where you always have to be cautious.

Everyone we met in Dubrovnik was so friendly and welcoming. The city is also extremely clean—the streets almost sparkle! There’s no trash or litter lying around, and the whole place feels very well cared for.

If you’re worried about safety, Dubrovnik is a destination where you can relax and truly enjoy without constantly being on guard.

Language, do I need to speak Croatian?

You don’t need to worry about speaking Croatian when visiting Dubrovnik. Most people speak English very well, and we never had any language barrier during our trip. In restaurants, shops, and even small local places, communication was always easy.

That said, it’s always respectful to learn a few basic Croatian phrases like “hello” (bok), “thank you” (hvala), and “goodbye” (doviđenja). Locals really appreciate when visitors make a small effort to use their language.

Are there Good Beaches in Dubrovnik?

Absolutely! Dubrovnik is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, so you’ll always find amazing places to swim.

There are so many beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. Some are right next to the city walls, little coves tucked under cliffs, and scenic spots just steps from the Old Town. Others are a bit further out along the coast if you’re up for exploring beyond the city center. Even with just 1 day in Dubrovnik, you can still enjoy time at the beach.

One thing to note is that most beaches here are pebbly, not sandy, so I highly recommend bringing water shoes. But the crystal-clear water makes it impossible to stay away, especially on a hot day!

I wrote a full guide on the 16 Best Beaches in Dubrovnik. It covers my favorite swimming spots, from popular beaches to hidden gems.

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Travels with MR

Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.

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