The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has been a popular tourist destination for years. The natural beauty and historical significance have attracted visitors from all over the world eager to explore this area. In fact, if you are looking to get out into nature and experience Croatian culture, as well as take in some breathtaking views, then hiking in Croatia may be just what you need!
Dubrovnik Terrain
The terrain you’ll come across around Dubrovnik is surprisingly varied. This city is home to some steep paths up to high altitudes offering some of the country’s best views. Thanks to its location, there are also plenty of easy routes perfect for families looking for a more mellow trek. Some of these easier tracks include ones through olive groves and vineyards, gravel trails and even sealed paths, making for excellent hiking.
Dubrovnik Flora and Fauna
The flora and fauna you will see whilst hiking around the Dubrovnik region is equally as varied, and not to mention, extremely beautiful! The most abundant plant life along the trails are mastic trees (a type of flowering tree) which burst into white flowers come springtime and carpet the ground beneath them. You may also come across olive groves, local lavender fields and pine forests with their distinctive aroma.
Hiking Mount Srd
Perhaps the most iconic in the region is the panoramic landscape from the very top of Mount Srd. Most travellers opt to take the cable car up to the top of the hill, however for those eager for an active adventure, there is a trail that you can hike, zig-zagging up to the top. With its elevation and gravel paths, the trail isn’t an easy feat for beginners, however you’ll be rewarded with unbelievable views if you choose to hike to the top. To quench your thirst, there’s even a cafe/restaurant located at the top that makes for the perfect spot to relax and take in the views. Top Tip! Aim to catch the sunset views and watch the whole town be covered in golden hour.
Mt Srd Trail
Distance: 4.7km
Duration: Approximately 1h 30m
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Gravel and stone paths
Hiking Lokrum Island
Impossible to miss, Lokrum Island is nestled only 15 minutes away by boat from Dubrovnik Old Town. This pocket sized island offers a number of paths that explore the interesting terrain found throughout the uninhabited island. Consider choosing the Fort Royal trail which follows an old stone path to the island's highest point, dating back to Maximilian times. Once at the top, the route delivers incredible views of Dubrovnik in the distance, and allows you to explore the military ruins that date back hundreds of years. There are as many as 12 trails to explore on Lokrum Island, each taking in the island's must-see destinations including a benedictine monastery, the Maximilian gardens, island wildlife and The Dead Sea. There’s only one way to explore Lokrum Island, and that’s on foot!
Fort Royal Trail
Distance: 5km
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Rocky switchbacks
Walk Dubrovnik Old Town
For the more demure walker, staying in the heart of Old Town will offer many hiking discoveries. Walk the famous Old Town Walls which span 1,940 meters around the fondly named Pearl of the Adriatic. Catch incredible panoramic views of the town, neighbouring islands and impressive sites as you stroll, along the way you may even stumble upon a hole in the wall that leads down to a secret bar on the edge of said walls. There are also guided walking tours available in the Old Town, combining a history lesson with a good work out! Being in the Old Town you will also uncover hidden gems that were used to film the hit television series Game of Thrones. From Cersei’s ‘shame’ steps, more traditionally known as Jesuit Staircase, to Fort Lovrijenac which was the Red Keep in King's Landing, you’ll cover all the filming ground! If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, a Game of Thrones Walking Tour is a must!
Old Town Walls Walk
Distance: 4.1km
Duration: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Stone
Hiking in Mljet
If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, it’s definitely worth taking a trip to Dubrovnik’s neighbouring island, Mljet. This lushly covered green wonderland is home to the famous Mljet National Park and features stunning trails taking you through dense forests, past tranquil lakes and up rocky peaks. Throughout your journey, you are even able to head towards the iconic island-in-an-island, St Mary’s, that has its own monastery, chapels, untouched forest and even the resident donkey, Melita! Check out our Mljet Destination Guide for all things about this Adriatic oasis.
St. Mary’s Island Trail
Distance: Approximately 1km
Duration: Approximately 15-30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Gravel and paths
Hiking Equipment
Find a list of essentials you need to take when you embark on a hiking adventure in Dubrovnik via our handy downloadable list here.
With so many options to choose from, these are definitely the best place to start if you’re looking to hike Dubrovnik and experience it’s wonderfully diverse terrain! To explore more of Croatia on foot, check out our Hike Croatia Cruises, or if you're looking to explore Greece on foot, check out Island Hopping's Hike Greece Tour.
