Looking for the best things to do in South Dalmatia? Read further to learn about it!
This beautiful region of Croatia is full of sights and experiences that will fill your days with adventure. From the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea to the ancient architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites, South Dalmatia is one of the most diverse holiday destinations in Europe.
Take a boat ride past the islands and explore some of the hidden coves and idyllic beaches scattered around this stunning coastline. Relax on a beach and enjoy some local cuisine or take a tour to discover more about the rich history behind these towns. Visit Dubrovnik – one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations – and explore its towering city walls, built between the 12th and 17th centuries.
Take a ferry across to Korcula – another island located off the coast – and wander through its sleepy streets lined with Venetian-style buildings. As you make your way further south, visit Hvar Town for vibrant nightlife or take a boat trip to discover some of Croatia’s hidden gems such as the islands of Vis, Brac, and Lastovo. Explore nature parks like Mljet National Park or Krka National Park, known for their stunning waterfalls cascading into pools surrounded by lush vegetation – great for swimming!
If you’re looking for something more active, head out on a diving expedition where you can explore wrecks from World War II or snorkel around underwater caves with colorful marine life swimming around you. Whether you want to soak up the sun on secluded beaches or go on an exciting adventure, South Dalmatia has something for everyone! So why not come experience all this region has to offer today?
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Do you need help planning your trips? Start here!
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Top reasons why this region is an ideal travel destination
South Dalmatia is an amazing place for history buffs
South Dalmatia is home to some of the most well-preserved historical sites in Croatia. Dubrovnik, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 7th century. Visitors can walk the city walls, visit the Old Town, and explore the historic Rector’s Palace.
The natural beauty of South Dalmatia is mind-blowing
South Dalmatia is home to a diverse array of landscapes, from the dramatic coastline and sandy beaches to the rolling hills and forests of the interior. One of the top things to do in the region is to visit the Elaphiti Islands, a chain of small islands just off the coast of Dubrovnik. These islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful escape from the city.
Croatian food is amazing!
Croatian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors, and South Dalmatia is home to some of the best food in the country. From fresh seafood to locally grown produce, there are plenty of delicious options. Don’t forget to try the local wine, too!
Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!
I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!
- Booking.com – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
- Airbnb – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
- Skyscanner – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
- SafetyWing – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
- GetYourGuide – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
- My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon) – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
- Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon) – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.
Experiences and top things to do in South Dalmatia
Spend as much time as you can in Dubrovnik
The Old Town, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, is nested inside almost 2 km of great City walls and, as G. B. Shaw commented, is “a pearl of Adriatic.” Independent from the 13th to the beginning of the 19th c., the Republic of Dubrovnik faced hard but glorious times – namely, the 15th and the 16th c. were a golden age when immense wealth poured in thanks to commerce and navigation.
Exquisitely high level of preserved original architecture – houses, palaces, and churches – survived a terrible earthquake in 1667, so today, Croatia can brag with one of the world’s top destinations. As you make your way through one of the three entrances in the city, you feel like you are entering some medieval movie set. I’m telling you – these few rows are not enough to describe it all, but believe me when I say: Dubrovnik is an absolute must-see place in Croatia!
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Copenhagen Tour Across the Øresund Bridge to Lund and Malmö
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Visit Mljet National Park
Mljet National Park is located on the island of Mljet in Croatia. It is a protected natural area that covers over 5,000 hectares of land and sea. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including pine forests, olive groves, and over 250 species of birds.
One of the most iconic features of Mljet National Park is the two saltwater lakes, known as the “Large Lake” and the “Small Lake.” The Large Lake is home to a small island called St. Mary’s, which is home to a monastery and a church. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and explore the monastery, or simply relax on the sandy beaches that line the shores of the lake.
The park is also home to a variety of hiking and biking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the natural beauty, Mljet National Park also has a rich cultural history. The island has been inhabited since ancient times, and there are several historical sites scattered throughout the park, including Roman ruins and medieval fortifications.
Whether you’re interested in nature, or history, or simply want to relax on a beautiful beach, Mljet National Park has something for everyone. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Croatia.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
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Get to see Korčula
Korčula is an island off Croatia’s coast in the Adriatic Sea. It is the sixth-largest island in the country and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns.
One of the top things to do in Korčula is to visit the town of Korčula, which is located on the island’s eastern coast. The town is home to a number of historical sites, including the Korčula Old Town, which is surrounded by walls and towers. Visitors can wander through the Old Town’s narrow streets, visit the local museums, and explore the churches and monasteries that dot the landscape.
In addition to its rich history, Korčula is also home to a number of natural attractions. The island is home to several beautiful beaches, including the popular beach of Čaklje, located on the island’s western coast. There are also several hiking and biking trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re interested in history and nature or want to relax on a beautiful beach, Korčula has something for everyone. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Croatia.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Split Blue Cave and 5 Islands Tour
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Eat oysters in the city of Ston and explore the city walls
Situated on the peninsula of Peljesac, the town of Ston can be recognized from miles away even though you’ve never been there earlier. And I’ll tell you the way. Traveling from the direction of Neretva (on the mainland), you’ll spot a long line that climbs upon the hill.
Those are city walls, approximately 5,5 km long – said to be the second-longest in Europe. The long tradition of oyster rearing found its way eventually in the tourist offer, being one of the most popular delicacies of South Dalmatia – one of the essential things to do in Croatia!
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Dubrovnik Old Town & City Walls Guided Tours Combo Ticket
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Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?
Remember this: anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!
The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with SafetyWing was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.
I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.
Read my post about why you should get travel insurance for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from SafetyWing – they’re the best, in my opinion.
Trsteno Arboretum
Trsteno Arboretum is a botanical garden located in the village of Trsteno, in South Dalmatia, Croatia. It is one of the oldest arboreta in the world, with a history dating back to the 15th century. The garden is home to over 3,000 species of plants, including rare and exotic species from around the world.
One of the top things to do at Trsteno Arboretum is to take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the diverse collection of plants. The garden is divided into several sections, each with its own unique character. The Mediterranean Garden, for example, is home to a collection of plants that are native to the region, including olive trees, lemon trees, and fig trees. On the other hand, the Exotic Garden is home to a collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world.
In addition to its botanical collection, Trsteno Arboretum has a rich cultural history. The Gozze family, who were wealthy merchants and politicians, and originally owned the garden. The family built a number of buildings on the property, including a summer residence and a chapel. Visitors can explore these buildings and learn more about the history of the garden.
Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or want to relax in a beautiful garden, Trsteno Arboretum is a must-see destination in South Dalmatia. It is a peaceful and serene spot that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Dubrovnik Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar and Pocitelj Day Trip
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Elaphiti islands
The Elaphiti Islands are a chain of small islands located off the coast of Dubrovnik, in South Dalmatia, Croatia. The islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere. There are several islands in the chain, including Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep, each with its own unique character.
One of the top things to do on the Elaphiti Islands is to relax on the sandy beaches. The islands are home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Šunj Beach on Lopud Island and Saplunara Beach on Mljet Island. These beaches are perfectt for swimming, sun bathing, and simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of the islands.
In addition to the beaches, the Elaphiti Islands are home to a number of historical and cultural attractions. Lopud Island, for example, is home to a number of medieval churches and monasteries, as well as a number of charming villages. Visitors can explore these villages and learn more about the history and culture of the islands.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city or want to relax on a beautiful beach, the Elaphiti Islands are a must-see destination in South Dalmatia. With their stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, these islands will delight and inspire visitors of all ages.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Dubrovnik: Elafiti Islands Trip w/ Lunch and Optional Pickup
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Explore Neretva delta
The Neretva river, 230 km long, flows into the Adriatic sea, creating a stunning delta with plenty of courses, lagoons, and lakes on the surface of merely 12,000 hectares. This fertile land is a synonym for the production of fruit and vegetables.
Depending on the time of the year that you travel to this part of Croatia, you’ll very quickly find some fresh watermelons or oranges being sold by the road at a reasonable price.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Dubrovnik Epic Game of Thrones Walking Tour
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Visit Peljesac wineries
The second-largest peninsula in Croatia is called Peljesac, well known as the land/zone dedicated to producing one of the most excellent wines in Croatia. Well-known names such as Dingac, Postup, or Plavac Mali have won various prizes over decades of growing on the rocky land of Peljesac.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
Book this unique experience: Mljet National Park & 3 Islands Tour from Dubrovnik
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Try Rozata
Talking about gastronomy, honestly, while being in Dubrovnik, you’re inevitably going to be offered rozata – a sweet dessert with a long tradition (I mean great– original recipe dates from the beginning of the 14th c.). It was named after a specific ingredient – rosalin – a liqueur of rose petals.
Today, it is probably the most popular dessert in Croatia.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
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What are my favorite travel must-haves?
As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!
- Warm packable jacket – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
- Transparent toiletry bag – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
- Kindle Paperwhite – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
- Powerbank – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
- Travel Adapter – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.
Don’t miss Lindjo
The dance of lindjo is a traditional folklore dance of the Dubrovnik region inscribed on the list of non-material heritage of UNESCO.
On the performance, you’ll see one man sitting in the middle with an instrument called Lirica; he’s the one who’s in charge – playing, dictating the rhythm, and commanding the dancers, very often humorously and ambiguously.
I bet that after reading this, you’ll try to find the lowest prices to get to Croatia. With these top 10 things to do in South Dalmatia, there’s no way to get bored or miss out on something authentic from the region.
And one more thing, remember the Dalmatians from the beginning of the post? I mean, the dogs now? The dog breed was named after the region of Dalmatia cause in the 16th c. These were very helpful in defending and standing guard at the Dalmatian border, watching out for attacks from Ottomans. Not that they could fight against the enemy, but they would warn Dalmatian soldiers if the intruder were approaching.
Where to stay in South Dalmatia? Find deals and book your hotel here!
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Planning to visit Croatia? Check out these posts!
- Croatia Points of Interests: Castles to visit, Places to visit
- Split Travel Guide: Things to do, Day trips, Split to Krka National Park
- Zagreb Travel Guide: Things to do, Day trips
- Dubrovnik Travel Guide: Things to do, Day trips
- National Parks to visit: Plitvice National Park
- Other Places to Visit: Istria, South Dalmatia, Zadar, Split
Where to stay in South Dalmatia
Booking.comTours to do in South Dalmatia
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