7-day sailing itinerary from Dubrovnik offers an unforgettable journey through South Dalmatia, featuring serene escapes like the Elaphiti Islands, historic sites such as Ston’s ancient saltworks, and natural wonders within Mljet National Park. This route, covering approximately 140-160 nautical miles, also includes the sandy beaches of Lopud, the mesmerizing Blue Cave on Koločep, and the lush olive groves of Šipan, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and maritime adventure.

Unforgettable Adriatic Adventure

A 7-day sailing itinerary from Dubrovnik offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and maritime adventure along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast. Here’s a summary of the key highlights and experiences:

DayDestinationHighlights
1-2Elaphiti IslandsPristine beaches, hiking trails, Blue Cave on Koločep
3StonEurope’s oldest saltworks, historic walls
4Mljet National ParkSaltwater lakes, Benedictine monastery, lush forests
5Lopud IslandSandy beaches, especially Šunj Beach
6ŠipanOlive groves, vineyards, wine tasting
7Return to DubrovnikCity walls, historical sites

This itinerary allows sailors to experience the diverse attractions of South Dalmatia, from secluded bays and national parks to historic towns and gastronomic delights. The journey covers approximately 140-160 nautical miles, offering a perfect balance of sailing and exploration. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches, this route provides a comprehensive taste of Croatia’s coastal wonders.

Elaphiti Islands: A Tranquil Start

The Elaphiti Islands, located northwest of Dubrovnik, offer a serene start to your sailing adventure. This archipelago consists of several islands, with Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan being the main inhabited ones.

These car-free islands (except for Šipan) provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city life, featuring pristine beaches, lush pine forests, and historic sites. Visitors can explore hiking trails, swim in crystal-clear waters, or visit ancient churches and monasteries dating back to the 9th century. 

The islands are easily accessible by boat from Dubrovnik, making them an ideal first stop on your sailing itinerary. Each island has its unique charm, from the Blue Cave on Koločep to the sandy beaches of Lopud and the olive groves of Šipan, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Elaphiti Islands

Ston: Europe's Oldest Saltworks

Ston, located on the Pelješac peninsula, is home to Europe’s oldest active saltworks, a testament to Croatia’s rich cultural and economic heritage. Established in 1333 when the Dubrovnik Republic acquired the area, the Ston saltworks spans an impressive 400,000 square meters. This ancient salt production facility has remained faithful to traditional methods, using only natural elements like sun, sea water, and human labor to produce up to 2,000 tons of organic salt annuall .The saltworks played a crucial role in Dubrovnik’s economy, contributing up to a third of its income over the centuries.Visitors can explore the salt pans, which are particularly striking during the harvest period from April to September, and purchase the renowned fleur de sel as a unique souvenir of this historic.

Mljet National Park: Pristine Beauty

Mljet National Park

Lopud Island: Sandy Beaches

Lopud Island, part of the Elaphiti archipelago, is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches, a rarity in the Dubrovnik region. The most famous is Šunj Beach, located on the island’s outer side, about a 25-30 minute walk from the main settlement. This shallow, crystal-clear bay is perfect for families and those seeking relaxation, offering amenities like loungers, cocktail bars, and even massage services. While Šunj is the most well-known, Lopud also boasts two smaller sandy beaches in Lopud Bay, providing a more authentic island experience. These beaches, situated near the pier and in front of Hotel Grand, offer various activities such as kayaking, paddle boating, and easy access to local restaurants and shops. The car-free nature of Lopud adds to its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers seeking a peaceful getaway.

Šunj Beach

Koločep: Blue Caves Exploration

Koločep Island, also known as Kalamota, is home to the mesmerizing Blue Cave (Modra Spilja), a hidden gem accessible only by boat or swimming. This enchanting sea cave is renowned for its ethereal blue glow, created by sunlight reflecting off the white seabed through the crystal-clear water. Visitors can explore the cave’s interior, witnessing the captivating azure brilliance and natural wonder. Many boat tours from Dubrovnik offer trips to the Blue Cave, often combining it with visits to nearby Green Caves and Šunj beach on Lopud island. The journey to Koločep provides breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s city walls, adding to the overall experience. Adventure seekers can opt for kayaking to the cave, while others may prefer guided boat tours that include snorkeling equipment and refreshments.

Koločep

Šipan: Olive Groves and Vineyards

Šipan, the largest island in the Elaphiti archipelago, is renowned for its lush olive groves and vineyards that reflect its rich agricultural heritage. The island boasts a record number of olive trees relative to its population, earning it a place in the Guinness World Records. Visitors can explore the island’s picturesque landscape, dotted with fig trees, citrus groves, and pomegranates, offering a glimpse into traditional Mediterranean agriculture. Šipan’s fertile soil and abundant sunshine have historically produced fine wines that were once enjoyed by European aristocracy. Today, tourists can experience the island’s flavors through olive oil and wine tastings in authentic rural households, immersing themselves in the local culture and gastronomy.

Cost Comparison: Croatian Cities

A comparison of prices for a 7-day itinerary across popular Croatian coastal cities reveals varying costs for accommodation, activities, and transportation. Here’s a brief overview of the price ranges you can expect:

CityAccommodation (per night)Activities (per person)Transportation (one-way)
Dubrovnik€50 – €200+€20 – €70€1.73 – €4 (bus)
Split€50 – €200€5 – €100€1.73 – €4 (bus)
Zadar€70 – €220€20 – €50€0.53 – €1.73 (tram)
Šibenik€50 – €150€10 – €40€1 – €3 (bus)

Prices in Dubrovnik tend to be higher due to its popularity, while Zadar and Šibenik offer more budget-friendly options. Split provides a good balance of prices and attractions. Accommodation costs vary widely based on location and amenities, with city center options generally being more expensive. Activity prices range from free entry to historical sites to more expensive guided tours and adventures. Public transportation is relatively affordable across all cities, with buses being the primary mode in most locations.

ZADAR

Ston Walls: Historical Fortifications

Series of defensive stone walls in Croatia
 
Location
Ston, Dalmatia, Croatia
Construction Period
14th century – 15th century
Length
Originally over 7 km, now 5.5 km
Significance
Known as the ‘European Great Wall of China
Main Purpose
Defense and protection of the city and salt pans
Current Condition
Preserved
Unique Features
40 towers (20 survived) and 5 fortresses
 
The Walls of Ston, often called the “European Great Wall of China,” are an impressive medieval fortification system stretching over 5.5 kilometers in southern Croatia. Constructed in 1358 to protect the valuable salt pans of the Republic of Ragusa, these limestone walls originally featured 40 towers and 5 fortresses, of which 20 towers survive today. The walls connect the towns of Ston and Mali Ston in an irregular pentangle shape, showcasing remarkable medieval engineering and city planning. Despite partial demolition after the fall of the Republic, the Walls of Ston remain one of the world’s longest preserved fortification systems, offering visitors stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and insight into Croatia’s rich medieval past.