Much of Mljet is covered in pine and holm-oak forest, and it's considered Croatia's greenest island. Since 1960 the west of the island has been a national park around two sea lakes, Veliko and Malo jezero, linked to the sea by narrow channels. On an islet in the big lake stands a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.
At a glance
Region
South Dalmatia
Ferry
Prapratno (Pelješac) – Sobra
Catamaran
Dubrovnik – Sobra / Polače / Pomena
Park entrances
Pomena, Polače, Vrbovica
Best time to visit
May, June, September
Ideal for
nature lovers, cyclists, families
In the national park
Veliko and Malo jezero saltwater lakes with walking and cycling paths; in summer the water is often warmer than the sea
St Mary's islet Benedictine monastery with church, reached by park boat (included in the ticket)
Bikes and kayaks rental in Pomena, Polače and by the lakes
Montokuc and Veliki gradac viewpoints hikes with views over the lakes
Polače remains of a Roman palace right by the harbour
Outside the park
In the east lies Saplunara with shallow sandy beaches, a rarity in South Dalmatia. Odysseus Cave near Babino Polje is a sea grotto you can climb down to or swim into. Sobra is the ferry port in the middle of the island.
Tickets and honest verdict
Admission is sold at the entrances or online; according to the 2026 price list it costs up to around €25 for adults in high season, usually less online, and includes the park bus and the boat to the monastery islet. At midday many day-trippers arrive from Dubrovnik and Korčula. Stay overnight on Mljet and you'll have the lakes almost to yourself in the morning and evening. Restaurants and shops are limited.
