Dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik port is shielded with a large number of islands, reefs and rocks. They served as guardians to the Dubrovnik coastline throughout the turbulent history, protecting them from pirates as well as the powerful Mediterranean winds. The islands are primarily recognized for their amazing beaches, cultural heritage, lush vegetation, old ruins, aromatic pine trees, clear blue sea and peaceful surroundings. Islands archipelago are perfect destinations for short excursions and they are well connected with Dubrovnik through regular boat lines.
THE 6 CHARMING ISLANDS NEAR DUBROVNIK
1.KOLOCEP
The smallest of the islands, Kolocep has a population of 300 people. The island once was important to Dubrovnik’s ship building industry. With no cars on the island you can walk everywhere on one of the island’s paths. Several churches including St. Nicholas and St. Serguis dating back from the 9th century are some of the highlights of the island. After a walk you can relax on a sandy beach or swim to the Blue Cave.
2.SIPAN
The popular island is reachable by car, but the island is small enough to get around easily on a rented bike. The island is a tourist destination since the 15th century when Dubrovnik’s best families built vacation homes and palaces here. The island is famous for its agricultural products, including wines, olives and citrus fruit. The ruins of palaces and other old structures can be visited. If you plan on swimming, please wear water shoes as the beaches are gravelly.
3.KORCULA
The island has an eclectic history and was founded by the Trojans in the 12th century BC. Over the centuries it has been ruled by many powers, including Greek, Austrian, French, Hungarian and Venetian. The explorer Marco Polo was born on the island. Years ago the island provided wood for the Venice’s walls. You can visit the St. Mark’s Cathedral and climb up the narrow staircase to see panoramic views from the bell tower.
4.LOPUD
The fine white sand beaches of the island is considered the best of all the islands. In its heyday the island counted 30 churches, several palaces and two monasteries as well as a vibrant shipping industry; one-fourth of Dubrovnik’s navy were Lopud ships. Since the earthquake in the 17th century the island never rally recovered. A walk among the ruins is a quiet time for reflection.
5.MLJET
The island is claimed as the most beautiful and greenest. Surrounded by quaint, tiny villages, the national park makes up most of the island. The island has two saltwater lakes that have islands. You’ll find an old Benedictine monastery dedicated to St. Mary. Odysseus, a Greek king and his cave who reportedly lived here for seven years. After a day out exploring finish your day with Mljet wine, goat cheese and olives.
6.LOKRUM ISLAND
Popular with the locals to cool off in the hot summer, the island is a 20-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik. Besides doing some beach combing, it’s a great place to enjoy nature, from Mediterranean forests to a botanical garden or visit the 11th century Benedictine Monastery. It is rumored that the monks warned Dubrovnik residents when danger, including storms and pirates, was eminent. Richard the Lionhearted built a church here, according to local legend. Game of Thrones was filmed here.
PLACES TO SEE IN DUBROVNIK
- The Fort of St John
- Maritime Museum
- The Aquarium of Dubrovnik
- Bokar Fort
- The Rector’s Palace and Cultural Historical Museum
- The Dominican and Franciscan Monasteries
- The Big Fountain of Onofrio
- St. Saviour Church
- Pile Gate
- Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar: Fort Lovrijenac
- Orlando’s Column
- Church of St. Blaise
- The Square of the Loggia
- Revelin Fort
- The City Gates
- Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury
- Stradun of Dubrovnik
- The Old City Walls
- Minceta Towerk
- Lovrjenac Fortuk
The best time to visit Dubrovnik is September and October, when temperatures and the water remains warm for these two months.
