The Dubrovnik-Neretva County is one of the most attractive diving destinations in the Adriatic, offering numerous sites that combine fascinating history with a rich underwater world. Crystal-clear waters, a rugged coastline with small islands and hidden coves, underwater caves, sunken ancient galleys, and shipwrecks from more recent times make this area a true paradise for underwater exploration.
The waters of Cavtat are home to one of the richest archaeological sites in the region, a true treasury of history. Near the islets of Mrkan, Bobara, and Supetar lies one of the largest amphora sites in the Mediterranean, with over 1,800 well-preserved amphorae dating back to the 1st century BC and the early centuries AD. These historical artifacts testify to the ancient trade routes of ships that once sailed these waters. Today, divers can explore these relics under the expert guidance of local diving centers. In addition to amphorae, the seabed near Cavtat features impressive underwater walls that drop to depths of up to 100 meters, along with caves and shipwrecks, offering divers a unique opportunity to discover history while enjoying the region’s diverse marine life.
Dubrovnik and the Elaphiti Islands also offer spectacular diving experiences. The Blue Cave on Koločep is famous for its stunning light effects, while the wreck of MV Taranto, a World War II cargo ship lying at a depth of 40 meters, attracts experienced divers eager for underwater adventure. Near Šunj Beach on Lopud, impressive underwater cliffs are teeming with marine life. The entire Elaphiti archipelago is known for its underwater walls and caves, where divers can explore hidden passages filled with fish, lobsters, and octopuses.
Mljet, an island famous for its untouched nature and national park, offers incredible diving experiences, including Odysseus’ Cave, an impressive sea cave linked to the legend of Homer’s hero. Vranji Škoj and Goli Rat provide divers with a chance to explore vibrant reefs, while certain locations also feature rare red gorgonian corals. The waters of Mljet also hide sunken ancient ships, making it a perfect destination for underwater archaeology enthusiasts.
On Korčula, divers will find plenty of fascinating sites. The cave at Cape Ključ is located at a depth of 25 meters and extends over 100 meters inland, offering an exhilarating dive. The islet of Trstenik features underwater canyons and rock formations that create dramatic passages filled with a rich variety of marine life. Diving off Pelješac allows for the exploration of reefs and wrecks, while the Bay of Mali Ston is known for its ecological efforts to preserve its diverse marine ecosystem.
To dive in these waters, recreational divers need to obtain a permit from the local Harbor Master’s Office or one of its branches. The diving permit costs 318.53 euros and is valid for one year from the date of issue. Additionally, divers are encouraged to contact local diving centers, which offer guided dives, equipment rentals, and air tank refills.
Diver safety is of utmost importance, and in case of decompression sickness or other diving-related medical emergencies, it is important to know that the hyperbaric chamber in Dubrovnik is located at Polyclinic Marin Med. This facility provides hyperbaric oxygen therapy for decompression sickness and other diving-related medical conditions. For emergencies, divers can contact +385 20 400 500.
With its diverse diving locations, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking underwater landscapes, the Dubrovnik-Neretva County is a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced deep-sea explorer, the underwater world of southern Croatia offers unforgettable sights that will leave you in awe.
The Dubrovnik-Neretva County offers excellent fishing opportunities thanks to its crystal-clear sea, diverse coastline, and rich marine life. Both recreational and sport fishing enthusiasts can enjoy fishing year-round, but a valid permit is required. Permits can be purchased online through the official website of the Directorate of Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture or at authorized sales points in coastal towns. For sport fishing, membership in the Croatian Federation for Sport Fishing at Sea is also required.
Some of the most popular fishing spots include the Elaphiti Islands, the Pelješac Peninsula, the island of Mljet, Korčula, and the Neretva River estuary, which is particularly known for mullet and sea bass fishing. These waters are home to a variety of species, with common catches including gilt-head bream, dentex, amberjack, sea bass, moray eel, scorpionfish, squid, and octopus. Autumn and spring are the best seasons for catching larger fish, while squid fishing is especially popular in winter.
Spearfishing is allowed but subject to specific regulations, including a ban on using oxygen tanks. Anglers are encouraged to practice responsible fishing by respecting seasonal bans and designated fishing zones to help preserve the biodiversity of the Adriatic. For more information and to purchase permits, visit ribarstvo.mps.hr and hssrm.hr.
“Game of Thrones,” one of the most popular TV series of all time, has significantly contributed to promoting Dubrovnik as a tourist destination. From the second to the eighth season, Dubrovnik served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the fictional capital of Westeros. The series, based on George R. R. Martin’s literary saga A Song of Ice and Fire, has captivated millions of viewers worldwide and played a key role in increasing Dubrovnik’s global recognition.
The scenes filmed in Dubrovnik have become an invaluable advertisement for the city and its surroundings, attracting numerous fans eager to explore the locations they have seen on screen. This interest has led to the development of various themed tourist tours, guiding visitors through key filming sites such as Fort Lovrijenac, Stradun, and the Trsteno Arboretum.
Tour guides now incorporate Game of Thrones filming stories into their classic city tours, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and fun facts from the set. This allows visitors to not only discover Dubrovnik’s rich history and cultural heritage but also immerse themselves in the fantastic world of Westeros, making their stay in this historic city even more memorable.
If you are looking for an adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, tradition, and a unique boat ride through one of Croatia’s most magical rivers, a photo safari on the Neretva is the perfect choice! This tour offers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking Neretva Delta, known for its wetlands, lush vegetation, and diverse birdlife – all while sailing in authentic Neretva lađe, traditional wooden boats that have been used in the region for centuries.
As you navigate through the maze of river channels, you’ll experience a peaceful yet thrilling journey surrounded by untouched nature. Along the way, you will have the chance to photograph herons, cormorants, wild ducks, and even rare eagles soaring over the river. Expansive reed fields, floating islands, and hidden lagoons provide incredible scenery for photography enthusiasts – whether you’re a professional or just want to capture beautiful memories of this magical place.
To complete the experience, visit local farm estates, where you will be welcomed with authentic Neretva delicacies such as freshly caught eels and frogs, the famous Neretva brudet (fish stew), and delicious fruits from the region’s fertile fields. With a glass of homemade wine and the warm hospitality of local hosts, this tour is more than just a photo safari – it’s a journey into the heart of Dalmatian tradition and breathtaking landscapes that will leave you enchanted.
The Dubrovnik-Neretva County is more than just sun, sea, and stone – it’s the rhythm of the past, the scent of lavender along the road, and the hum of an old engine climbing a hill with a view over the deep blue Adriatic. If you’re looking for a different way to experience the south of Croatia, far from the crowds and rush, retro rides on a Vespa or in a legendary Renault 4 open the door to an authentic, nostalgic, and truly joyful journey. The Vespa tour through Dubrovnik and its surroundings takes you along narrow roads above the city, past viewpoints like Mount Srđ and Park Orsula, and into quiet coastal stretches with views of the Elaphiti Islands and Lokrum. The sense of freedom, sun on your shoulders, and wind in your hair feels like something out of a Mediterranean movie.
A different, but equally charming experience awaits on the Renault 4 oldtimer tour through Konavle. In a convoy of these beloved vintage cars, you’ll cruise through the fertile Konavle fields, along the Ljuta River, past old mills, vineyards, and traditional countryside homes. The tours often include tastings of local wine and olive oil, as well as a home-cooked meal, turning the ride into more than just an outing – it becomes a return to simplicity, hospitality, and the natural rhythm of life. Even if you’ve never driven a “četvorka” before, it quickly becomes an experience you won’t forget.
Whether you choose the elegant charm of a Vespa to explore Dubrovnik’s hills or opt for a relaxed ride in a Renault 4 through Konavle’s greenery, these retro tours offer a perfect mix of style, local tradition, and timeless natural beauty. These aren’t just rides – they’re emotional journeys through time and space, encounters with landscapes and people, moments that stay with you.
Most of the stunning locations in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County are easily accessible by boat, making nautical tourism a well-developed and highly popular sector in this region.
The rugged coastline, along with numerous islands and islets, allows for smooth sailing and a comfortable stay at sea, even when weather conditions are not ideal. Having a safe anchorage in a sheltered bay protected from the wind is essential for any multi-day boating trip. Even on day trips, experienced captains plan their routes to stay close to the many secluded coves that this area offers.
The Mljet archipelago and the Elaphiti Islands not only provide safe anchorage but also offer breathtaking natural beauty, making them well worth a visit. And of course, nothing compares to the experience of sailing beneath the historic Dubrovnik city walls – a memory every sailor cherishes.
Many sailors enjoy navigating these waters, though they rarely arrive with their own vessels due to the distance. Instead, boats are most commonly rented, with a variety of options available in Dubrovnik and its surroundings, including motorboats, yachts, and sailboats.
Rental boats in this area can be found at ACI Marina Dubrovnik (Komolac), while the newly opened marina in Slano has increased capacity and made more charter boats available in the region. Many sailors also rent boats in Split, where there is the largest fleet, and include Dubrovnik as a stop on their weekly or bi-weekly sailing routes along the Adriatic coast.
Given the high attractiveness of this sailing area, it is important to note that it becomes very busy during the summer months. For those seeking a quieter experience, we recommend sailing in the pre-season or post-season, when prices are lower, crowds are smaller, and you have a greater chance of anchoring in a secluded bay, surrounded by untouched nature.
The mandarin harvest in the Neretva region has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Croatia and abroad. This unique event takes place every autumn, usually from late September to mid-November, when mandarins ripen and reach their full sweetness.
Tourist agencies and local producers offer packages that include a traditional boat ride through the Neretva delta, mandarin picking directly from the plantations, and tasting freshly harvested fruit. Participants receive baskets or bags and can pick a certain amount of mandarins to take home.
In addition to the harvest itself, organized tours often include gastronomic delights such as traditional Neretva brudet (fish stew), fried eels, and homemade mandarin liqueurs. This experience is enriched by stories from local growers about citrus farming, the specifics of the soil and climate, and the challenges they face in agriculture.
We invite you to a fragrant mandarin harvest in the stunning landscape of the Neretva Valley!
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or a peaceful play with the waves, this region offers activities to match every rhythm and mood. Discover the Adriatic on a board, in the air, or on the waves, and experience how the sea can be truly inspiring when approached with a sense of adventure.
One of the most unforgettable experiences is undoubtedly parasailing – the moment you lift off above the sea and Dubrovnik unfolds in all its beauty, with Lokrum beneath your feet and the Elaphiti Islands on the horizon. The silence in the air, the gentle breeze, and the breathtaking panorama remain etched in memory long after you return to shore. Departures usually take place from Copacabana or Banje beaches, where professional teams ensure a safe and carefree flight.
For those who love speed, a jet ski safari is the perfect mix of action and exploration. Starting from Lapad, Zaton, or Cavtat, riders set off toward hidden coves, sea caves, and distant islands, with stops for swimming in lagoons accessible only from the sea. This isn’t just a ride – it’s a sea adventure that blends freedom with the thrill of discovery.
But not everything has to involve speed or height. Stand up paddling (SUP) is ideal for those who wish to find their rhythm in harmony with the sea. Gliding quietly along the coastline, passing pine trees, rocky shores, and observing the seabed beneath, SUP offers a unique sense of calm and connection with nature. Zaton, Srebreno, and the Elaphiti Islands are perfect for this tranquil, meditative activity.
At popular beaches like Copacabana, Banje, and Lapad Bay, there are plenty of fun activities available for groups and families – from banana boat rides and tubing to wakeboarding and water biking. Laughter, splashing waves, and excitement make these sports an essential part of summer days in southern Croatia.
Dubrovnik is not only famous for its rich history and cultural landmarks but also for exciting outdoor adventures. One of the most popular attractions for adrenaline seekers is ziplining, offering a unique experience of flying over stunning landscapes and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea. With two zipline locations, visitors can choose between different experiences—whether they prefer soaring above the Old Town or gliding high over the coastline and forests.
Panorama Zipline Dubrovnik is located on Mount Srđ above the city and features two lines, each 250 meters long, providing spectacular views of the Old Town and Lokrum Island. During the ride, which can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h, participants experience a thrilling combination of excitement and the beauty of Dubrovnik’s scenery. The adventure lasts approximately three hours and includes rides on both lines, with the option of a sunset experience. It is recommended to book in advance, and more information can be found at ziplinedubrovnik.com.
Zipline DU the Wire is located in the Dupci area, about 4 km from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This zipline is the longest coastal zipline above the Adriatic Sea, stretching 900 meters. Participants ride in a “superman” position, giving them a true sensation of flying over the breathtaking coastline and forested landscape. The ride can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h, with the starting point positioned at 175 meters above sea level. To participate, riders must weigh between 50 and 110 kg, and those under 18 need parental consent. More details and booking options are available at duthewire.com.
