Dubrovnik A Day Out, Walk around Cavtat
Dubrovnik A Day Out, Bus Journey and Walk around Cavtat
Today we are going on a little Bus trip to Cavtat from Dubrovnik. If you bought the Dubrovnik Card, then you will have a few return bus tickets included with that card. It takes around 30 minutes to get to Cavat, depending on how many stops the bus makes. You need to find the cable car that takes you up the big Hill. The best views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area are, without doubt, experienced from the top of Srd Hill. That’s for another day. Today we are walking in Cavtat. Catch the number 10 bus from just below the cable car.
The Cavtat Bus no 10 departure point
Arrival in Cavtat
Your arrival in Cavtat will be at the main bus station, which is just a turning point, really. There are a few shops nearby, a Supermarket, a baker’s, basically anything you would find in a small village. Head for Main Street, which is away from the Bus stop and the waterfront.
Walk Directions
The Start of the walk
The map above does not show all the details for the 2 x walks, although they are both quite short walks, and extremely nice. The scenery and views are amazing. From A to B, the first is a circular walk. From A to B, the 2nd walk is longer than the line drawn, because it is a footpath, and I cannot draw it on the map.
Walk down the main street towards the waterfront and turn right along the waterfront. Continue along the waterfront until you reach the small church FRANJEVAČKI SAMOSTAN. Have a look around this church, small but very nice. After visiting the church, turn left out of the door and look for signs of the Racic Family Mausoleum. (30% discount with 3-Day and 7-Day card)
Racic Family Mausoleum, Cavtat
The Mausoleum of the Račić family (Our Lady of Angels) is the work of the Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, built-in 1922. It is located in the Saint Rocco Cemetery, on the highest point of the Rat Peninsula, above the urban centre of Cavtat.
The Mausoleum of the Račić family was the first architectural work devised by Ivan Meštrović (1883-1962). It was constructed for the ship-owner family Račić between 1920 and 1922. Ivo Račić, followed by his two children, died a sudden death in 1919 due to the Spanish Flu. At the request of Marija, the widow of Ivo Račić and according to an earlier promise given to her daughter Marija Banac, Meštrović constructed a votive cemetery chapel consecrated to Our Lady of Angels.
You will have to climb quite a few steps to reach the top. There is a cafe halfway up if you fancy a coffee and cake. Take a look around the Mausoleum’s grounds and graveyard, and take advantage of the discount if you wish to tour the inside of the Mausoleum.
Head back to the Seafront
After visiting the Mausoleum, head back down the hill and back to the waterfront. Turn right along the foreshore. The map gives a road further in, but you can walk around the coastal path, which is nicer. Halfway around and almost on the point is a beach bar, “Beach Bar Little Star” It’s built on stilts over the beach and overlooks the sea.
If you decide not to stop, just continue on the path. You will shortly arrive at another bar, Restaurant Rokotin. We stopped here and had a coffee while people-watching. The seating area is raised above the path and has spectacular views across the water. We watched the crew of a very large private yacht anchored in the bay taking their large tender out to pick up some people from Cavtat. Just down from the bar was a beach area which was full of people sunbathing, swimming and messing about in little boats.
After leaving the bar, head toward the beach area and follow the path past the small fishing boats and rickety pontoons. You will eventually arrive at a boat yard and then a car park, which takes you back to your starting point of the bus stop. We decided to buy some lunch to take to the front. We stopped at a small bakery at the entrance of the old town called Peco. Sandwiches are made in advance and displayed in the counter cabinet. They also have cakes and pastries like sausage rolls. 2 sandwiches later, we sat back in the front on a little bench, enjoying our food and the view.
Walk around Cavtat Part 2
Head left from the main street/seafront. Continue along this path along the foreshore past Beach Bar Banac and then past Spinnaker Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Both places looked good for a stop if you fancied a drink. After passing the second bar, you can continue along a path and then up a slight hill to follow the path around.
You will end up on the other side from where you started and in a bit of a forestry-type setting, but still on the coast. Walk all the way along until you reach the Hotel Croatia Cavtat grounds. If you choose to go right here, you will end up at the Hotel beach area down a hill. I think it’s just for guests. We turned left and walked through the gardens back to point B pastthe Ancient necropolis of Epidaurus, an Archaeological site, not much there, but it takes you back towards point B on the map.
Head back to the waterfront and the shops
We headed back to the waterfront and browsed the local shops up the high street and on the front. We then visited Vlaho Bukovac Home. (Free with 3-Day and 7-Day card) The Bukovac House is the birthplace and museum of the Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac (Cavtat, 1855 – Prague, 1922), one of the most prominent Croatian painters and founder of modern Croatian painting. During his cosmopolitan life, conducted in America and Europe, Bukovac often returned home, where he left much of his work. The house is full of paintings, not just hanging on the walls but actually on most of the walls and doors. It is well worth a visit.
We finished the day by finding a waterside cafe and having a drink, and just sat admiring the view and watching people going about their day. The waterfront is not short of cafes and restaurants,
Hotel Accommodation Cavtat
Top 10 Things to Do in Cavtat, Croatia – Your Ultimate Travel Guide
1. Stroll the Cavtat Harbour Promenade
There’s no better way to start a day in Cavtat than a walk along the harbour promenade. Early morning is magical — the calm water reflects the colourful houses, fishing boats rock gently, and the scent of fresh sea air fills your senses. Local cafés open gradually, offering coffee and pastries to fuel your exploration. Along the promenade, artists display paintings and sketches, while fishermen prepare their nets. Take your time, pause on a bench, and watch the world wake up. The combination of peaceful ambience and stunning sea views makes this stroll unforgettable.
2. Visit the Račić Family Mausoleum
Perched above the town, the Račić Mausoleum is a highlight for lovers of art and architecture. Designed by Ivan Meštrović, the white stone structure is striking against the deep blue Adriatic sky. Inside, delicate carvings and expressive sculptures create a serene atmosphere. The walk up is worth it alone for the breathtaking panoramic views over Cavtat Bay, the surrounding hills, and the distant islands. It’s a perfect mix of history, art, and natural beauty, and a spot where you can linger, take photos, or simply enjoy the quiet elegance of this hidden treasure.
3. Explore the Rat Peninsula Coastal Path
Nature enthusiasts will adore the Rat Peninsula, just a short walk from Cavtat’s centre. The coastal path winds along rocky cliffs and shaded pine groves, leading to small coves and secluded beaches. The trail is easy to navigate, yet full of surprises — turquoise waters, wildflowers, and the occasional fisherman casting from the rocks. Bring your camera or a picnic; there are plenty of spots to pause and soak in the surroundings. This trail offers a peaceful escape from the town’s bustle while still being close enough to pop back for a coffee or gelato.
4. Discover the Vlaho Bukovac Gallery
Art fans cannot miss the home-turned-gallery of Cavtat’s most famous painter, Vlaho Bukovac. Step inside to see the rooms where he once created his masterpieces. The gallery houses many of his paintings, sketches, and personal items, giving a unique insight into his life and creative process. The intimate space allows you to connect with his work up close, while the subtle historical touches in the building make the experience even more charming. Visiting here is not just about art — it’s a peek into the soul of Cavtat through the eyes of one of its greatest artists.
5. Explore the Rector’s Palace and Cavtat Town Museum
Step back in time at the Rector’s Palace, Cavtat’s Renaissance gem that now hosts the Town Museum. Wander through galleries filled with fascinating archaeological finds, ancient artefacts, and items that tell the story of life in this region over centuries. From Roman relics to maritime tools and traditional costumes, there’s a wide variety to admire. The palace itself is beautiful, with terraces offering spectacular views of the bay. It’s the perfect spot to absorb Cavtat’s history while enjoying architecture that blends elegance and function, giving visitors a true sense of the town’s heritage.
6. Admire St Nicholas Church
Dominating Cavtat’s skyline, St Nicholas Church is a peaceful sanctuary and a showcase of Baroque design. Step inside to see impressive altarpieces, intricate paintings, and the subtle glow of stained glass. The calm interior is ideal for reflection after a morning of sightseeing. Photographers will love capturing the church from different angles, both inside and out, with its dramatic setting above the town. Whether you’re drawn by architecture, history, or just the tranquil atmosphere, a visit here adds depth to your Cavtat itinerary and a touch of serenity to your day.
7. Swim in Cavtat’s Hidden Coves
Cavtat’s coastline is dotted with small beaches and quiet coves, perfect for swimming and relaxing. While the main beach is great for a lively atmosphere, venturing a little further along the coast rewards you with peaceful, crystal-clear water and fewer crowds. Bring snorkelling gear to explore underwater life or simply float in the warm Adriatic. Evening swims are especially memorable, with sunsets turning the water into a sheet of gold and orange. It’s a refreshing way to connect with nature and make lasting holiday memories in one of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal towns.
8. Take a Boat Trip to Dubrovnik or the Elaphiti Islands
Cavtat is ideally located for scenic boat trips. Hop on a short ride to Dubrovnik and experience the Old Town from the water, a unique perspective away from crowded streets. Or take a longer trip to the Elaphiti Islands, where charming villages, olive groves, and hidden beaches await. On clear days, the Adriatic shimmers, and lucky travellers may even spot dolphins leaping alongside the boat. These excursions combine adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery — a great way to explore beyond Cavtat while enjoying the beauty of the Dalmatian coast.
9. Kayak or Dive Along the Coast
For active travellers, Cavtat offers plenty of water-based adventures. Rent a kayak and paddle along the shoreline, exploring rocky cliffs and quiet inlets. Divers can discover underwater treasures, from colourful fish to ancient shipwrecks. Both activities give you a unique perspective on Cavtat’s rugged coastline and vibrant marine life. Whether gliding across calm waters or exploring below the surface, these experiences combine fun, fitness, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to make their holiday a little more adventurous while still soaking up the sun and sea.
10. Sample Local Flavours in the Konavle Countryside
Just a short drive from Cavtat, the Konavle region is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Vineyards stretch across rolling hills, producing local reds and whites, while small farms offer fresh cheeses, olive oils, and cured meats. Join a tasting tour or wander the countryside, sampling authentic flavours while enjoying breathtaking views. Meeting local producers adds a personal touch, and every sip or bite tells a story of tradition and care. This is an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, letting you taste the essence of southern Croatia while surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Dubrovnik A Day Out, Walk around Lapad
