Lokrum Island

Go to Lokrum Island no matter how long you are in Dubrovnik. You should definitely spare half a day and visit Lokrum—an island 600 m off the coast of Dubrovnik. Regular ferry services from the old port in Dubrovnik take you to this gem of an island in just 15 min and for a cost of 15 USD (return fare). Do note that the ferries run from April till end of November.

Once on the island, walk around the complex of Benedictine monastery and check out the Romanesque-Gothic basilica. Although there is a restaurant within the monastery complex, a picnic on one of the pristine beaches is the ideal way to enjoy a meal on Lokrum. The tiny island also boasts of a smaller version of Dead Sea—a salt-filled lake called Mrtvo More. Enjoy a swim in this lake and then head out for a walk to be one with nature. No cars are allowed on this island, which makes it a haven for a variety of flora and fauna, notable amongst which are the dozens of peacocks that were brought over from the Canary Islands. A leisurely stroll on the tree-lined paths is a perfect way to detox and get away from the noise and commotion of Dubrovnik. There is a nudist beach on the island too.