LOPUD: HOW TO SPEND A PERFECT DAY ON THIS CROATIAN ISLAND!

If you’re staying in Dubrovnik and want to take a day trip, I’ll tell you right now Lopud is the perfect option.

Lopud is probably my favourite place in all of Croatia, and I visit it so many times every single summer. It’s a small island just off the coast of Dubrovnik, and it’s absolutely beautiful. It’s green, peaceful, and home to some of the rare sandy beaches in Croatia, which already makes it special.

One of the best things about Lopud is that there are no cars allowed on the island. That means no traffic, no noise, and no chaos. Just a calm, relaxed atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy Old Town of Dubrovnik.

While some people choose to stay overnight on Lopud and visit Dubrovnik from there, the most popular way to experience it is as a day trip. And honestly, if you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Dubrovnik, this is it.

Keep reading to find out how to plan the best day trip and what you absolutely shouldn’t miss once you arrive on Lopud!

Where is Lopud?

Lopud is one of the three main islands in the Elaphiti Islands archipelago near Dubrovnik. Out of the three, Lopud is the most developed and the most visited, and in my opinion, definitely the most worth it.

The island is quite small, with only around 269 inhabitants, but despite its size, it has so much to offer. You’ll find gorgeous beaches, scenic hiking trails, and some truly amazing restaurants all on this tiny, peaceful island.

It’s the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration, which is exactly why it makes such a great day trip.

Where to stay on Lopud?

If you’re thinking about staying on Lopud for more than just a day, there are a few great accommodation options on the island.

The only hotel on Lopud is RMH Lopud Lafodia, and it’s currently being renovated into Hilton Lopud Beach Resort and Spa, which is set to open in 2027. We stayed at RMH Lopud Lafodia and really enjoyed our time there (you can check out my full review to see what our experience was like). Since it’s becoming a Hilton property, it’s likely going to be even more impressive once it reopens. If you’re visiting from 2027 onwards, I’d definitely consider staying here and visiting Dubrovnik occasionally.

If you prefer not to stay at a hotel, there are plenty of lovely apartments available on Booking.com. Many of them are just as amazing and give you a more private, local experience, which fits perfectly with Lopud’s peaceful atmosphere.

Where to eat on Lopud?

For such a small island, Lopud has surprisingly many great restaurants. Whether you’re looking for something quick and affordable or a proper dinner with high-quality Croatian seafood, you’ll definitely find it here.

The two places you really shouldn’t miss are Restaurant Dubrovnik and Restaurant Obala. Both serve incredible local dishes that will absolutely blow your mind. If I had to choose, I’d slightly recommend Restaurant Obala more. It’s a bit more affordable than Restaurant Dubrovnik (although both are on the pricier side), and in my opinion, the food might even be a little tastier. Either way, you really can’t go wrong with either of them.

Things to do on Lopud:

Lopud is honestly such a peaceful island, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. If you’re into more active vacations, you can absolutely stay busy and have fun here.

Even though Lopud is small, it’s surprisingly diverse and offers plenty of things to see and do, from scenic walks and beach hopping to exploring historic sites and viewpoints. Check out the list below for some of the best things you shouldn’t miss while visiting Lopud!

1. Arrive early by ferry

If you’re coming to Lopud, the easiest and cheapest way to get there is by the local ferry. Jadrolinija operates several ferries a day between Dubrovnik and Lopud, and the round-trip ticket is only about 10 euros.

My advice? Take the earliest ferry possible to make the most of your day on Lopud. The ferry currently running the route is called Dora or Anastazija (depends on the season). The first departure is usually at 9:30 or 10 a.m., and the last ferry back to Dubrovnik is around 7 p.m., giving you plenty of time to explore the island.

2. Climb up to the Sutvrac Fortress

If you’re up for something more active and don’t mind a bit of a challenge, hike up to Sutvrac Fortress.

The fortress was built in 1563, and today only ruins remain. There isn’t a lot left of the structure itself, but that’s not really the main reason to go. The real reward is the view! From the top, you get absolutely incredible panoramic views over Lopud and the surrounding sea.

If you’re planning to hike up, make sure you’re well prepared. Good walking shoes, plenty of water, and sunscreen are a must. There’s little shade along the way, and the climb can be quite steep, so keep that in mind, especially in the summer heat.

3. Dip in the Sunj beach

The most popular attraction on Lopud is definitely Sunj Beach. This gorgeous sandy beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors, especially since sandy beaches are quite rare in Croatia.

Sunj is located about 2 kilometers from the main promenade in Lopud village. You can reach it on foot, by golf cart, or even by boat. It’s a bit of a walk if you decide to go on foot, especially in the summer heat, but it’s manageable. If you’d rather skip the hike, the golf cart ride takes just a few minutes and costs around 3 euros per person.

Sunj Beach is especially great for families with children because the sea stays shallow for many meters, so it’s safe and easy to enjoy. There are also food and drink options available, along with sunbeds and other amenities. Just keep in mind that prices at the beach are on the higher side, so if you’re traveling on a budget, bringing your own snacks and water is a smart idea.

4. Take a walk to the edge of the island

Lopud has a lovely promenade along the sea that gives you a stunning overview of the whole island. You can start the walk right from the ferry terminal and go all the way to the edge of the island.

The walk isn’t challenging at all and it usually takes around 45 minutes. You’ll pass charming houses and restaurants before reaching the cliffs, where the views of the sea are simply breathtaking. It’s a perfect way to see the island in a relaxing and peaceful way.

5. Marvel at the Lopud monastery

The Lopud Franciscan Monastery is the first thing you’ll notice when arriving on Lopud. You can even see it from the ferry before you step on the island!

Founded in 1483, it’s the oldest part of the island and has been beautifully renovated over the past two decades. Today, it serves as exclusive accommodation for high-end guests who want privacy.

While you can’t enter the monastery itself, you can get closer and step inside the small church in the yard. It won’t take long, but it’s definitely worth a quick visit.

MY PERSONAL TAKE ON A DAY TRIP TO LOPUD

Lopud is honestly one of my favourite places on earth, and I can promise you a day trip here is absolutely worth it. The beaches are incredible, unlike anything you’ll find near Dubrovnik, and the peace and calm of the island are a perfect contrast to the crowds in Dubrovnik. If you’re visiting Dubrovnik, make sure to save at least one day to explore Lopud, you won’t regret it!

CONCLUSION: LOPUD ISLAND

Lopud is a dream for anyone who wants to enjoy the stunning Adriatic Sea while escaping the crowds. The island is incredibly charming and offers plenty to see and do, so a day trip here a perfect idea. As a local Croatian who’s traveled all along the coast, Lopud is the one island I’m always excited to return to, and that says a lot!