Cavtat & Konavle – relaxed at Croatia's southern tip
Cavtat sits on a small peninsula about 20 kilometres south of Dubrovnik and is the successor to ancient Epidaurum, whose inhabitants founded Dubrovnik in the 7th century. Today it's a well-kept harbour town with a palm-lined promenade, walking paths and swimming spots – and a relaxed base for Dubrovnik. Behind it the fertile Konavle valley stretches to the Montenegrin border.
At a glance
Region
South Dalmatia
To Dubrovnik
approx. 20 km, also by boat
Dubrovnik Airport
approx. 5 km
Beaches
pebbles and rocks, bathing platforms
Best time to visit
May, June, September, October
Ideal for
couples, families, Dubrovnik visitors
Things to do in Cavtat
Rat and Sustjepan peninsulas walking paths around the headlands with rocky swimming spots
Račić Mausoleum by sculptor Ivan Meštrović in the cemetery above the town
Birthplace of Vlaho Bukovac gallery of the renowned Croatian painter
Boat to Dubrovnik regular in season to the old harbour, about 45 minutes
Konavle
The Konavle valley has wineries growing the local Malvasija dubrovačka, mills on the Ljuta river with excursion restaurants and the medieval Sokol Grad fortress. In Čilipi traditional costumes and dances are shown on Sundays in season. Molunat in the south has quiet coves.
Honest verdict
Excursion boats and coach groups come during the day, but evenings are quiet. Proximity to the airport means aircraft noise in some locations. For Dubrovnik visitors Cavtat is the most pleasant and usually cheaper place to stay.
