Lokrum- a small island only 600 meters from Dubrovnik

There are many beautiful places on earth, but the people of the Dubrovnik region believe that theirs is the most beautiful. The warm southern climate, airy blue skies, emerald green and dark blue clear sea depths at the edge of the rocky shores spill over numerous ditches and coves, sandy beaches and steep cliffs adorned with the lushest Mediterranean and subtropical flora.

Lokrum is a small island and nature reserve, very close to the wonderful Dubrovnik – it’s easy to spot from many vantage points in the city, such as from the Old Town Walls or from Mount Srđ. It’s a very pleasant way of spending a day or afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik!

The island is covered in lush vegetation with a number of interesting plant species located here, including those specially imported. Lokrum is entirely uninhabited, although it was bought by Austrian archduke Maxilimilan I in  1858, and much of the botanical plant life is owed to his grand gardens created during his ownership.

Lokrum is also famous as one of the filming locations of the epic Game of Thrones TV series, so many fans of the show head there for this reason too.

How to get to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik?

Unless you have your own boat or kayak, there’s only one way to visit Lokrum Island: by ferry from Dubrovnik to Lokrum. No cars are permitted on Lokrum, so you should be prepared to walk everywhere. The island isn’t big but it can have uneven terrain. So it’s good to wear a pair of reasonable walking shoes, and bring water if it’s a hot day.

Can I stay overnight on Lokrum?

No, as a nature reserve there is no accommodation on Lokrum. It is forbidden to otherwise stay overnight on the island. Seeing as it’s so close to Dubrovnik, you can easily visit several days in a row if the island has really taken your fancy!

Eating and Drinking on Lokrum

Some visitors enjoy taking their own provisions to enjoy a nice picnic during their day trip. However, there are a few cafes, bars and restaurants on Lokrum at which you can grab a quick bite to eat (or a cooling beer or cocktail) or enjoy a more leisurely lunch at. Consider some of the following place:

Snack Bar Lacroma – A good place for a light lunch, drinks or dessert; located close to where the boat drops you on the island.

Lacroma Restaurant – The best choice on Lokrum if you want a proper sit-down meal. This is a popular venue with some excellent choices for the mains.

Konoba Rajski Vrt – By the monastery, this is another good option for a quick and tasty lunch.

Lake Cocktail Bar – by the Dead Sea, a laidback place for a coffee or a drink if you’ve made it down to this part of the island.

Best Things to do on Lokrum Island

Float in the Dead Sea

If you have always wanted to float in the Dead Sea but can’t quite make it to Israel or Jordan, then why not find a vacation rental in Dubrovnik and head to the pretty island of Lokrum?“Why?” you may ask. Well, the answer is simple; they may not have the famous Dead Sea but they do have their own miniature Dead Sea called the Mrtvo more, which is similarly easy to swim in and, therefore, has become one of the most popular attractions on the island. Located on the southern part of the island, this 10m deep lake is crystal clear and calm and perfectly suitable for bathing. With great facilities and a popular cafe-bar overlooking it all, it’s an ideal spot to come and splash around for a day in Croatia.

Climb to Fort Royal and see the stunning views of Dubrovnik

The path to the fort is steep and difficult enough, especially on a hot summer day, but it’s definitely worth it! Once you get to the top, you will see spectacular views of Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik.

Visit The Iron Throne

A must for any Game of Thrones fan is a visit to the Iron Throne replica located inside Lokrum Visitor’s Center on the island. You’ll find info about the filming, a map of filming locations in the area, and most importantly, have an opportunity to sit on the throne for a fun photo opp.

Enjoy Lunch

Since Lokrum has no permanent residents, there aren’t a ton of amenities on the island, but you can enjoy lunch at a few restaurants. Most offer both ala carte and prix fixe menus and you can watch rabbits, peahens, and baby peacocks sneak between the tables looking for crumbs in the outdoor cafe.