Just a short ferry ride away from Dubrovnik lies Lokrum Island – a lush, green oasis known for its serene atmosphere, natural beauty, roaming peacocks, and a touch of Game of Thrones fame. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply in need of a quiet break from the busy streets of Dubrovnik, Lokrum is a rewarding half-day getaway.
Getting There
Getting to Lokrum is easy and convenient. We bought our ferry tickets right next to the Old Town port. The ride takes around 15 minutes, and ferries depart frequently throughout the day. You can check the current schedule here: Lokrum Ferry Schedule.
Ferry service operates from April through October—roughly seven months of the year—so be sure to plan accordingly.
A Place of Legends
Lokrum isn’t just beautiful—it’s steeped in fascinating stories. According to legend, King Richard the Lionheart was shipwrecked on his way back from the Crusades in 1192 and found shelter on the island. In gratitude, he pledged to build a church there. However, the people of Dubrovnik persuaded him to build it in the city instead.
Another notable tale surrounds the Benedictine monks who once lived on the island. After being expelled in 1808, they reportedly cursed Lokrum by walking around it three times with lit candles turned upside down. Since then, ownership of the island has changed hands many times – with no one managing to hold on to it for long.
How Long to Stay
We spent about five hours on Lokrum, which was enough time to explore the main sites at a relaxed pace. If the weather had been warm enough for swimming, we might have stayed longer. Visitors should note that overnight stays are not allowed – so plan your trip as a day visit only.
Things to Do on Lokrum
We visited Lokrum on a spontaneous trip and had a wonderful time exploring without a strict itinerary. Here are a few highlights:
Swimming & Sunbathing
During the warmer months, Lokrum offers plenty of scenic spots for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the water. Some areas are clothing-optional, so pay attention to the signs. Since we visited in April, the water was too cold for a swim, but the rocky beaches still offered beautiful views.
Water shoes are highly recommended, as most beaches are rocky rather than sandy.
Mrtvo More: Lokrum’s ‘Dead Sea’
This small saltwater lake in the center of the island gets its nickname from its high salt content, which allows for an easy, buoyant swim – similar to the actual Dead Sea. Though we didn’t swim due to the chilly weather, it’s a peaceful, scenic spot worth visiting.
Explore the Monastery
Lokrum’s Benedictine Monastery complex includes the ruins of a medieval basilica, a cloister garden, and a 19th-century summer residence built by Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg. Maximilian, who later became Emperor of Mexico, chose Lokrum as his summer retreat.
Fans of Game of Thrones will also recognize the monastery as a filming location – it stood in for the city of Qarth in Season 2. There’s even a replica Iron Throne on display, perfect for a photo opportunity.
Botanical Gardens
The island’s Botanical Gardens, originally created by Archduke Maximilian, feature a variety of exotic plant species and offer a peaceful setting for a stroll. It’s a lovely, quiet corner of the island.
Fort Royal
Located on the highest point of the island, Fort Royal offers panoramic views of Lokrum, the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s city walls in the distance. It was built during the early 1800s, beginning under French rule and completed by the Austrians.
If you’re up for a bit of a hike, the view from the top is well worth the effort.
