Lokrum Island

The Basics

Just 10 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is an easy day trip from Croatia’s Adriatic Coast. While some visitors take the ferry from Dubrovnik’s Old Harbour and explore the island independently, others go as part of guided tours. Sea kayaking and snorkeling tours often circle the island, as do jet-skiing tours. Yacht and speedboat cruises departing from Dubrovnik will often sail around the island’s scenic shoreline.

Things to Know Before You Go

• It’s not possible to stay overnight on the island, so be sure to arrange return transport.

• Smoking is not permitted on Lokrum Island.

• Bring swim shoes to protect your feet from the rocky shore, and plenty of water if you plan on hiking.

• The island has several cafés and small restaurants. Alternatively, bring picnic supplies.

How to Get There

April through November, ferries depart regularly from Dubrovnik’s Old Harbour and dock at Portoc Bay in Lokrum. The journey takes 10 to 15 minutes. It’s also possible to get to the island by private charter boats or by kayak.

When to Get There

Lokrum Island is accessible from April through November, weather-permitting. July is the driest and sunniest month, making it an excellent time to visit. Lokrum tends to be more humid in the afternoon than in the morning, so plan more strenuous activities, such as hiking, for earlier in the day.

What to See on The Island

A designated nature reserve, Lokrum features many tree-shaded walking paths. One highlight of the island is the star-shaped Fort Royal, which was constructed by the French in the early 19th century. Today the fort offers wonderful views of Dubrovnik and the town of Cavtat to the south. And be sure to check out the Dead Sea, a salt lake with calm, sheltered waters suitable for children and less-confident swimmers.

What are the top attractions to see on Lokrum Island?

At the center of Lokrum is a Benedictine Monastery that's surrounded by beautiful gardens full of all sorts of flowers, shrubs, and trees. The gardens and the ruins of the monastery complex are among the biggest draws of the island, though some people come to Lokrum for outdoor pursuits, too.

Are there any guided tours available on Lokrum Island?

Yes, there are plenty of guided tours from Dubrovnik to Lokrum Island. Options include kayaking tours and cruises that go out to the island, as well as Game of Thrones–themed tours that combine a tour of Dubrovnik’s shooting locations with a trip out to the island.

How do I get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik?

The easiest way to get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik is by either hiring a private charter boat or by taking a ferry. Ferries depart from Dubrovnk's Old Harbour and arrive at Portoc Bay on Lokrum Island. Adventurous visitors can also travel to the island by kayak.

Is it possible to stay overnight on Lokrum Island?

No, it’s not possible to stay overnight on Lokrum Island. There are no accommodation options and camping isn’t permitted, so you’ll need to have plans in place to leave the island on the last boat back to the mainland. Visitors to the island typically spend the night in Dubrovnik instead.

Can I swim in the waters around Lokrum Island?

Yes, you can swim in the waters around Lokrum Island. There are plenty of beach areas with access to the sea—just don’t expect a lot of sand. Some kayaking and boat tours to the island include stops to swim and snorkel, but you’ll need to bring your own towel.

Is there a restaurant or cafe on Lokrum Island?

Yes, there are a few places to eat on Lokrum Island, including a couple of restaurants and a snack bar. Most are pretty close to the port and some close during the low season, so check ahead if you aren’t on a tour that includes meals or don't plan to pack a lunch.

Ways to explore

Just 10 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is an easy day trip from Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Some visitors take the ferry from Dubrovnik’s City Harbor and explore the island independently—ferry tickets include the admission fee, which is discounted with a Dubrovnik Pass. Others go with a guide: A few Game of Thrones tours visit Lokrum, which stood in for Qarth in season 2 and has an Iron Throne where you can take photos. Sea kayaking and snorkeling tours often circle the island, as do Jet Ski, yacht, and speedboat cruises.

Accessibility

There is wheelchair access to the island, but travelers with manual wheelchairs may find the uneven paths challenging.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Along with swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel, bring swim shoes to protect your feet from the rocky shore, plus a hat and a reusable water bottle if you plan on hiking.

What to wear

The monastery is in ruins, so dress for the weather, rather than religious sensibilities.

Not allowed

Dogs, smoking, staying overnight

Amenities

Restrooms, souvenir shop, visitor center, eateries in season

Address 

Lokrum Island is a few hundred yards (meters) south of Dubrovnik Old Town. You can reach it by ferry, private boat charter, or sea kayak, when weather permits.

Driving

The island is car-free.

Public transportation

Lokrum Island is open to visitors roughly from February to mid-December; in February and March, ferries usually run only on the weekends. The trip from Dubrovnik’s City Harbor to Lokrum’s Portoč Bay takes 10–15 minutes, and boats run most frequently in the summer.

Best times to visit

Lokrum tends to be more humid in the afternoon than in the morning, so plan more strenuous activities, such as hiking, for earlier in the day.

Best days to visit

The best days to visit Lokrum depend on sea conditions and boat schedules: During February and March, ferries typically only make trips on the weekends, and bad weather can lead to canceled sailings at any time of year.

Best months to visit

The island is generally accessible from February through mid-December, weather permitting. July is the driest and sunniest month, making it an excellent time to visit.

Special events

During the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, which runs from mid-July to late August, the island often hosts cultural performances.