Lokrum: A Haven for the Explorers in Search of Tranquillity

With shaded walking paths, exotic plants, and friendly wildlife at every turn, it’s a refreshing contrast to the city’s energy. A visit to Lokrum leaves you feeling relaxed, inspired, and just a little more connected to nature and history. Our experience lasted approximately 4 to 5 hours, and we’ll show you the highlights of the island you can experience during this specific period.

About Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is fascinating to explore from a historical point of view – it was first mentioned in 1023 when it became a home to a Benedictine monastery, whose ruins still stand today, whispering tales of medieval life. The island was also a retreat for Dubrovnik’s nobility, a place of refuge during plagues, and later as a summer residence for Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, who added his architectural mark. For visitors in search of a mystery tale, it is also interesting to know that Lokrum is wrapped in mystique – most famously the tale of the Benedictine Curse, which is said to haunt those who tried to claim the island for personal gain after the monks were forced to leave. 

Today, visitors can wander through botanical gardens, swim in its saltwater lake, and explore ancient ruins, all while enjoying the serenity that has made Lokrum a timeless sanctuary for centuries.

Today, visitors can wander through botanical gardens, swim in its saltwater lake, and explore ancient ruins, all while enjoying the serenity that has made Lokrum a timeless sanctuary for centuries.

Getting to Lokrum Island: Sights, Sounds & Sea Breeze

When you board the local ferry in the Old Port of Dubrovnik,  you’ll immediately sense the salty Adriatic breeze. Seagulls fluttered overhead and the rhythmic sound of the engine accompanied panoramic views of Lokrum’s pine shores and hidden coves. The 10-15 minute ride is peaceful and scenic – perfect for photos or daydreaming – before docking at quiet Portić Bay on Lokrum’s eastern side.

Crowds arriving at Lokrum Island via the main ferry pier, ready to explore the island’s natural beauty, historic sites, and peaceful walking paths just minutes from Dubrovnik

First Impressions of Lokrum

When you get to the island, you have the impression that you’ve crossed into another world, just minutes from Dubrovnik’s bustling Old Town. The air feels cooler and fresher, carrying the crisp scent of pine needles, salt, and wild rosemary. You will be surprised by some particular sound – a distant cooing of peacocks, who wander freely like mythical guardians of the island. But your adventure is just about to begin with shaded pathways that invite you to explore, wander around, and relax.

ne of Lokrum Island’s iconic peacocks roams freely through the ancient ruins of the Benedictine Monastery, adding a splash of color and life to the island’s historical charm

We can say the first impression is a mix of tranquillity and curiosity – it is like stepping into a secret garden.  There’s a sense of time slowing down, encouraging you to breathe deeper, walk slower, and let go of everyday distractions.

A peaceful path through the ruins of Lokrum’s historic Benedictine Monastery, where centuries-old stone walls and lush Mediterranean plants create a quiet, timeless atmosphere

Exploring Lokrum Island

A helpful wooden signpost on Lokrum Island guides visitors to key spots like the Dead Sea, the scenic rocks, and the historic Charlotte’s Well, perfect for exploring the island’s many natural and cultural treasures

We can say the first impression is a mix of tranquillity and curiosity – it is like stepping into a secret garden.  There’s a sense of time slowing down, encouraging you to breathe deeper, walk slower, and let go of everyday distractions. But on Lokrum, every path leads to a discovery.

The Benedictine Monastery

The first stop is the Benedictine Monastery, its ancient stone walls wrapped in ivy and legends. As you explore the ruins, there’s a quiet hush, only the soft flutter of peacock feathers as one struts past, adding to the island’s mystical charm. It is one of the most intriguing and historically rich landmarks near Dubrovnik, steeped in centuries of legend, religion, and even a touch of mystery.

One of Lokrum’s most enduring tales is the “Benedictine Curse.” In 1808, during Napoleon’s occupation, the French ordered the dissolution of the monastery and expelled the monks. On the night of their departure, the monks supposedly walked around the island in a final procession, hooded and chanting, while placing a curse: “Whosoever claims Lokrum for personal pleasure shall be damned.” 

Whether coincidence or curse, several later owners, including members of the Habsburg dynasty, met tragic fates. This story adds a layer of eerie mystique to the otherwise peaceful ruins.

The monastery is partially restored and houses a small museum and exhibition space, including a Game of Thrones installation (featuring a replica Iron Throne, as scenes from the series were filmed on Lokrum). The entry to the exhibition space is included in the price of the ticket to Lokrum – Special Reserve of Forest Vegetation. 

Visitors can stroll through the serene cloisters, explore the stone remnants of chapels and halls, and sit in shaded gardens once tended by monks.

Botanical Garden 

Nearby, the Botanical Garden offers a real haven for lovers of vegetation. You can spend the whole morning here, discovering all the exotic plants like cacti and eucalyptus, blending with the Mediterranean setting. This is a true gem for all who admire species from literally all around the world.

A Swim in the Dead Sea

One of the day’s highlights is a swim in the Dead Sea, Lokrum’s saltwater lake. We didn’t know it was possible to swim, or let’s better say – float effortlessly in the water, but the experience is rewarding. Whether you are sunbathing at the beach, floating in the water, or just having a drink in the beach bar above the bay.

The Dead Sea on Lokrum Island offers a peaceful, sheltered spot for swimming or floating

Fort Royal

Later, a climb up to Fort Royal rewards you with a sweeping panoramic view over Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the endless blue of the Adriatic – it’s a perfect spot to pause, catch your breath, and take in the grandeur of the coastline.  Along the way, the island’s friendly rabbits and peacocks become familiar companions, popping out from behind rocks or lounging in the sun.

Ruins near Fort Royal on Lokrum Island offer a peaceful resting spot with views of the Adriatic and a glimpse into the island’s layered history

What to Bring on Your Day Trip

When visiting Lokrum, pack light but smart. Bring sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses, since the Adriatic sun is strong, and even more in the south. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and towel for a refreshing dip in the Dead Sea or along the rocky coast – there are cliffs on the coast very famous for the most adventurous ones. Speaking of which, water shoes are highly recommended, as the shoreline can be uneven and slippery. For exploring trails and ruins, wear comfortable walking shoes. 

It’s also wise to carry water, snacks, or even a picnic, since food on the island can be limited and a little bit pricey. One last thing, bring cash, as card payments may not always be accepted at the cafés or kiosks.

Going Back to Dubrovnik

Lokrum Island, seen from above Dubrovnik’s Old Town,a lush green escape just a short ferry ride across the sparkling Adriatic Sea

As the ferry gently pulled away from Lokrum, we found ourselves looking back at the island with a quiet sense of gratitude. The visit had been more than just a scenic escape – it felt like a much-needed pause from the pace of Dubrovnik’s Old Town streets. 

Lokrum offered a space to breathe, reflect, and simply be present. Wandering through its shaded trails, swimming in its calm salt lake, and admiring the medieval beauty of the Benedictine Monastery made the day feel both enriching and meditative. The positive side of visiting Lokrum is that you can make your schedule, decide what to see, and what to do or eat at your own rhythm, tailored to your wishes. You can spend the whole day on the island, but there’s no overnight stay allowed. So it is important to confirm the last return ferry (typically around 7or  8 PM in summer) so you don’t get abandoned there.