A relaxing alternative to Dubrovnik: Discovering Cavtat, Croatia

If your cruise docks at Gruž Port in Dubrovnik, then there is the perfect opportunity to explore one of southern Croatia’s most appealing coastal towns – Cavtat. Often overlooked by cruise passengers, Cavtat is a serene and relaxing contrast to Dubrovnik’s bustling Old Town. Here you’ll find a beautiful palm-lined promenade, a peaceful harbour, and clear turquoise waters.

If you have visited Dubrovnik before or just want to escape the Game of Thrones references, then Cavtat offers a pleasant antidote. Just a short journey from Gruž port, Cavtat delivers scenic walks, plenty of opportunities for a quiet swim, and numerous harbourside restaurants for a leisurely lunch with a view.

Let me share with you perfect day trip from Dubrovnik’s Gruž Port

Where is Cavtat?

Cavtat (pronounced sav-tat) is located about 20 km south of Dubrovnik, along the Adriatic coast just north of the border with Montenegro. Cavtat is less familiar with cruise passengers than Dubrovnik – which is why it’s an amazing place to visit if you want to escape the crowds of Dubrovnik and experience more of Croatia’s coastal chams. Cavtat has a laid-back atmosphere, replete with a yacht-studded harbour, and dollops of stunning sea views.

And the best bit of all, is that it’s so easy to reach on a port visit to Dubrovnik. If your cruise itinerary as Dubrovnik as a late departure, (such as those with Holland America Line’s European Itineraries) then my recommendation is to take full advantage of this and spend the full day in Cavtat to catch the sunset from one of the harbourside bars before returning to port.

Now don’t get me wrong – if you’ve not visited Dubrovnik before then I definitely recommend you explore this iconic part of the Croatian coast first. More tips on visiting Dubroivnik coming soon.

Getting to Cavtat from Gruž Port

So what are the options for getting to Cavtat on your own from your cruise ship? Some cruise lines will offer a shore excursion which calls in Cavtat, although this will be a brief call and no where near enough time to do this charming coastal town justice. Here are my recommended alternatives.

🔖 Pro Tip: Double-check boat and bus schedules to ensure you return to Gruž Port in plenty of time.

Taxi Boat

If you want to take the most scenic route, then a taxi boat from the old town harbour in Dubrovnik is a great option. This option does require you to head into Dubrovnik first with a short walk to get to the old harbour from where the bus drops you off at Pile Gate. But if taking this option, my suggestion is to perhaps combine a shorter visit to Cavtat with a bit of meander through Dubrovnik Old town first.

To get from Gruž Port to Dubrovnik Old Town, catch Bus 1a or 1b to get from the cruise port. If your cruise line is offering complimentary shuttle busses between the cruise port and Dubrovnik then this makes things a little easier.

The crossing between the old harbour in Dubrovnik and Cavtat takes approximately 45 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Adriatic coastline. Boats typically run hourly between 9:00am and 7:00pm, and a return ticket costs around €30.

🔖 Pro Tip: Check the boat schedule upon arrival at the harbour, as timings may vary depending on the season and weather.

Taxi

This is going to be the fastest way to get to Cavtat from the cruise port. A taxi from Gruž Port to Cavtat takes around 30 – 35 minutes. Expect to pay approximately €35 – €45 one way.

Bus

Buses are frequent and inexpensive. So if you don’t mind taking local public transport (which can often be crowded and hot in the summer months), then this is the cheapest way to get to Cavtat from the cruise port. Bus No. 10 departs regularly from the main bus station (adjacent to Gruž Port) and arrives in Cavtat about 30 – 40 minutes later.

🔖Pro Tip: Like any other port of call you explore independently, follow my core advice: get up and off the ship early to miss the crowds, make sure you know when to be back on board, do your research and plan for contingencies.

Top Things to Do in Cavtat

Here are some of the things you can easily do in a day in Cavtat if visiting from a cruise ship. Here’s an overview/interactive map for your to get your bearings.

Take a Stroll along the Palm-Lined Promenade

The scenic waterfront is dotted with cafés, boats, and shaded benches. It’s a perfect place to yacht-spot (my new favourite hobby). With its gentle curve, the promenade serves up many stunning photo opportunities to capture a memory from your visit. Stopping for a coffee in one of the many shaded café terraces is also recommended to rest your legs and get your bearings before you explore more.

Meander a little further around the Coastal Path Walk and Stop for a Swim

At the far end of the harbour, you’ll find relatively level and easy to navigate trail that hugs the coastline around the peninsula. This walk is wonderful for exploring secluded beaches and hidden coves with crystal-clear water.

There’s also the added bonus of it being shaded by pine trees which is very welcome in the height of summer. Don’t forget your swimwear as the water is so inviting and a perfect way to cool down. If you want some refreshments on your meander then head to Beach Bar Little Star for a cold drink, laid-back vibes, and the best views in town.

Climb to the Mausoleum and Viewpoint

If you’re feeling energetic, a short walk uphill brings to the Racic Mausoleum and is well worth the effort. Here you can expect panoramic views over the harbour and nearby coastline. This is tranquil spot to take in yet more stunning views. Inside the pristine, white building you’ll find detailed engravings and sculptures of angels by well-known Croatian artist, Ivan Mestrovic.

Stop for Lunch a View at the Harbourside Promenade

Cavtat’s Promenade is bursting with places to eat. With all offering a selection of Mediterranean cuisine, you are spoiled for choice. Check out my list of recommended places to eat in Cavtat below.

🥗 Where to Eat and Drink in Cavtat

Ankora Wine Bar
Amor Restaurant
Restaurant Bugenvila
Wine Bar Banac
Ivan Restaurant,
La Boheme
Posejdon
House of ice-Cream Rozata

Visit the Glossus Humanus, Shell Museum

I love visiting small, independently run museums, especially those curated with passion and a personal touch. This one showcases over 3,500 shells from around the world, with interactive exhibits, handmade jewellery, and a knowledgeable owner eager to share her lifelong hobby. This is a delightful and educational experience for both adults and children.

🔖 Pro Tip: If your cruise departs later in the evening, consider staying in Cavtat for a sunset drink before returning.

Explore Cavtat’s Old Town and Shop for Local Crafts and Souvenirs

There is plenty to discover as you wander around the cobbled lanes of Cavtat’s tiny Old Town. The promenade is the place to pick up everything from artisan ceramics to novelty ashtrays. My tip is to take home some Konavle silk embroidery. There are plenty of items to choose from such as tablecloths, bookmarks, pincushions, and pillowcases.

🔖 Pro Tip: Whatever you decide to do in Cavtat, plan for at least 5 - 6 hours round trip to enjoy Cavtat fully.

Visit Vlaho Bukovac House

Birthplace and museum of renowned painter Vlaho Bukovac, showcasing his life, artistic development, and contributions to modern Croatian painting. The house, a historic family residence from the 18th century, has been preserved and restored to display over 200 of Bukovac’s artworks and documents.

Visit the Monastery of Our Lady of the Snow

This serene and historic Franciscan monastery and church was founded in 1484. The complex features a peaceful courtyard. The monastery features early Renaissance artworks and a painting by Vlaho Bukovac of the Madonna and Child overlooking Cavtat at dusk. Today, it remains a place of worship and reflection and is a venue for summer concerts.

Visit the church of St Nicholas

This 15th-century church houses notable artworks, including Bukovac’s paintings of the four evangelists and a 19th-century altarpiece by Carmelo Reggi. Originally built in 1484 and remodelled several times since, it also includes a picture gallery with valuable works such as a 15th-century icon of St Nicholas.

Relax on Cavtat’s Beautiful Beaches

If you want a sandy beach, then Zal beach is where you need to head. All other beaches around Cavtat are rocky or pebbly, so take a nice thick beach towel and invest in some water shoes. Here are some other recommendations for beaches in Cavtat – all can be cfound on the interactive map.

🏖️ Best beaches in Cavtat

Ključice Beach
Rat Beach
Zal Beach 
Plaža Cavtat
Sustjepan

Other ways to explore Cavtat

Rent a kayak or paddleboard or jetski
Hire a boat and sail around the bay
Rent a Vestpa

I hope that’s given you some ideas for visiting. Cavtat is a charming haven tucked-away along Croatia’s southern coast; it’s unhurried, and effortlessly picturesque. If you’re seeking an alternative to the bustle of Dubrovnik, Cavtat is a great option for a perfectly balanced day of culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty. Well worth the short journey from Gruž Port.

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