I don’t always feel like I have the time for a day trip when I travel, but this little island off the coast of Dubrovnik is a fascinating half-day excursion! My husband and I spent three days in Dubrovnik, which gave us plenty of time to spend a few hours away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the Old City. Here is everything you need to know to plan your trip here during your time in Dubrovnik!
Getting There
You can see Lokrum Island from just about anywhere in or around Dubrovnik. We had a great view of it from our hotel room! For all the details, check out the Lokrum Island Website.
The Ferry
To get here, you’ll take the ferry (the only ferry) from the Old City Harbor to Lokrum Island. The first ferry leaves at 9:00am, the last ferry returns at 7:00pm or 8:00pm, depending on the season. Ferries leave every half hour in the low season, every 15 minutes in the high season. Check the schedule here.
The Price
The cost as of fall 2022 was 200 kn, or 26.50 Euro (26.26 USD), and credit cards are accepted. The price includes your round-trip ferry ride, plus every site on the island. You won’t have to pay anything extra once you arrive, except for food or souvenirs. Be aware, however, that Croatia will be on the Euro starting in January 2023, so prices may change.
More here: How to Make the Most of the 1-Day Dubrovnik Pass
Things to Do
So… What is there to do on the island, exactly? Turns out, there’s a lot!
Visit the Benedictine Monastery Ruins
I’m a total sucker for ruins! The Benedictine Monastery here dates back to the 13th century, with gardens dating from the 16th century. And in the 18th century, Maximilian of Habsburg used this as his summer residence! It is truly beautiful, and you will almost certainly see wild peacocks, peahens, and peachicks running free around here, too!
Sit on the Iron Throne
Okay, so I’m not a fan of Game of Thrones! But even I know it was largely filmed in and around Dubrovnik, including Lokrum Island! Inside the Monastery (a little ironic!), you’ll find an exhibit about Game of Thrones, including THE Iron Throne. You can even sit in it for a photo-op!
Hike Up to Fort Royal
I’ll be honest, the hike is up! But the view from the top is really something else. Begun by the French and finished by the Austrians, this early 19th century fort occupies the highest point on the island with the best strategic vantage point.
Visit the Dead Sea
Yes, there’s a Dead Sea on this island! It’s really more like the size of a pond, and you can swim here if you like. (And float, of course.) Bring a towel and your swim suit, and don’t forget the sunscreen!
Follow the Trails
None of the trails are too long on the island, and most are quite flat. The trail up to and back down from the Fort are the exceptions. You’ll find beautiful views of Dubrovnik, the Adriatic, and sites of other parts of the island as well. Even if you’re not a big fan of hiking, you’ll appreciate these well-maintained trails!
Marvel at the Rocky Coastline
The rocks on the southwest side of the island are almost other-worldly, so they’re worth a visit. We saw some local fishermen out there trying their luck, as well as some other visitors simply looking out over the rocks to the Adriatic. It’s a peaceful, quiet spot, but also pretty dramatic with the waves crashing up!
Stroll the Botanical Gardens
Lokrum has a wonderful climate for gardens, making it the perfect place for a botanical garden for research, starting in 1959. It was badly damaged during the Croatian Wars in the 1990s, but at present, it’s home to over 800 species of plants.
Read on: What to Know Before You Visit Dubrovnik
Where to Eat
You could certainly bring a picnic, or plan to eat after your visit when you get back to Dubrovnik. However, if you’re planning to spend the day here, or doing a lot of hiking or swimming, you may want to get lunch on the island. There is a variety of restaurants, from snack shops to coffee spots to full sit-down restaurants, so you can take your pick! We had coffee at a little spot under the trees next to the Monastery. It was very atmospheric!
Keep eating: The Best Places to Eat in Dubrovnik
What to Bring
This can be a quick, easy trip, but there are still a few things you might want to have with you on the island!
Bug Repellent
The bugs were not horrible, but I was definitely glad I had some bug repellent with me.
Quick-dry Towel
You’ll be so glad you brought this! It’s perfect for swimming, but also for sitting on during a hike so you can sit and enjoy the scenery.
Bathing Suit and Cover-up
If you plan to swim in the Adriatic or in the Dead Sea, definitely wear or bring a bathing suit and functional cover-up.
Hat
Protect your face and eyes from the sun. Trust me, you’ll enjoy your time on the island more!
Sunscreen
The sun is bright in Croatia, especially out on the islands!
Read next: The 10 Best Things to Do on Your First Trip to Dubrovnik
Want more? Get everything you need to plan your trip on my dedicated Croatia Page!
Love this post? Pin it for later!
3 thoughts on “The Ultimate Half Day Trip to Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik”