Supranatural Tales: Things to do and see in Cavtat

Cavtat Croatia could be one of the best-kept secrets south of Dubrovnik, Croatia. I visited this small town with tons of beaches during my trip to Dubrovnik, and I now will present what to do in Cavtat.

Not many would guess this but Cavtat has Greek origins. The city was founded in the 6th century BC under the name of Epidaurus. Centuries later the Slavs destroyed and sacked the city. Residents fled and took refuge in present-day Dubrovnik (which was an island during those times). Cavtat rose from the ashes during the Middle Ages. As a play of destiny, the area that was populated with its inhabitants became a huge maritime power and became known as the Republic of Ragusa. Cavtat ended under the control of the Republic. As a holiday resort, Cavtat caters to those who want to have a relaxing couple of days by hitting the beach or sitting on a lounge with a cold drink. Even though the vibe seems to be “take it as slow as possible,” the city offers plenty to do in terms of cultural, recreational, and natural attractions.

ARRIVE BY BOAT

From April to November, there are boat services from Dubrovnik (Old Port) to Cavtat. Departures are every hour. This is a great opportunity to start your day with a scenic “cruise.” The stretch of coast between Dubrovnik and Cavtat (as much of Southern Dalmatia) is dotted with islands, coves, and picturesque towns. You will not regret seeing all that beauty from the water.

Travel Cavtat by Bus

Take local bus number 10 from Dubrovnik (leaves every 30 minutes).

After 30 minutes, it will drop you at the bus terminal. After 1 minute of walking, you find yourself in the harbor with all the stores, restaurants, and other sightseeing at your disposal.

Hemmed in by mountains and lush swathes of pine and cypress forest, Cavtat is breathtaking from every angle. Its seafront promenade is lined with fishing boats, artisan shops, pebble beaches, and quiet coves. The natural beauty and mild Mediterranean weather complement its rich cultural and historical heritage making this seaside destination one of the most attractive on the Adriatic.

Cavtat is pronounced as 'Tsav-tat', with the stress on the first syllable and a clear 't' sound at the end. The initial 'C' is pronounced like 'ts', as in 'cats', without the 'a' sound. The 'v' makes a soft 'f' sound, similar to the 'v' in 'valley'. Listening to native Croatian speakers and practicing the pronunciation helps capture the accent and sounds accurately. Engaging with locals and seeking their guidance on pronunciation demonstrates respect for the language and facilitates authentic communication. To understand Cavtat, and this blog, you must be aware of the peculiar geography of the city center. Cavtat consists of two peninsulas: Rat and Sustjepan. They are shaped like a crab’s claw. There are two bays too. The one inside the “crab’s claw” is known as Luka Bay and the other one is called Tiha Bay (shaped like a whale’s tail). Cavtat’s Old Town is located on the Rat Peninsula.

Historical Background

Cavtat's history stretches back over 2,000 years, beginning with its founding as the Greek colony of Epidaurus in the 6th century BCE. This idyllic town was later conquered by the Romans, becoming an important port and administrative center. During the Middle Ages, Cavtat thrived as part of the Dubrovnik Republic, serving as a bustling trading hub. In the 19th century, the town's charm and beauty attracted artists, intellectuals, and aristocrats, cementing its reputation as a cultural destination. The town's stunning Adriatic coastline and well-preserved historic sites have captivated visitors from around the world. As you explore Cavtat's winding streets, you'll uncover layers of history – from ancient Greek ruins to medieval churches. The town's rich past has left an indelible mark, creating a unique atmosphere that continues to draw tourists today.

As a port town, Cavtat served as a gateway for trade and commerce, connecting the Adriatic to the Mediterranean. This prime location enabled Cavtat to thrive, even as it changed hands from the Greeks to the Romans and later, the Dubrovnik Republic. Imagine strolling through Cavtat's picturesque Old Town, where centuries-old buildings line the charming promenade. You might stumble upon a Renaissance-era manor or a Baroque church, each structure a testament to the town's vibrant past. By immersing yourself in this historic setting, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Cavtat's enduring appeal. Its storied history, stunning natural beauty, and well-preserved landmarks all contribute to the town's enduring allure. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a charming Adriatic escape, Cavtat promises an unforgettable experience.

You will notice that Cavtat has an unusually high number of felines lingering around town. I like to called them as the Cavtat Cats. Some are known to wait for the fishermen to bring in the morning’s fresh catch, others nap outside the bakery, and others meander the promenade accepting treats from tourists. I even seen some sleeping atop the seaside podiums where tourists book their boat tickets! Below are few of my favourite Cavtat Cats, see if you recognize any of them around town!

Ok, I will start to show you guys the very best things to do in Cavtat so you can plan the perfect trip. I`ll tell you everything you need to know, show you where to stay, discuss how to get around, and answer some frequently asked questions. Cavtat is not only for saving money, because there is plenty to see and enjoy here too, which means you get the best of both worlds by choosing to stay just outside the main city itself.

1. Wander around the Old Town

Easily one of the best things to do in Cavtat is simply wander around the Old Town, which is something I did most days. Cavtat has a magnificent Old Town that features ancient buildings, some of which even give Dubrovnik a run for its money. First of all, I recommend walking along the scenic seaside promenade. Here, you’ll find charming orange-tiled buildings, boutique shops, picturesque sea views, and quaint cafes.

You could stop here for a nice meal at Konoba Galija or Restaurant Leut. You can even enjoy a lovely coffee in Caffe Bar Amor Towards the end of the promenade, you’ll come to the Franciscan Monastery – an old church and bell tower built in 1484.

I really liked the offerings from Mlinar, just across the road the main Studenac Market (essentially the local corner shop), had fresh bread in the mornings but sold out by pm, so go early.

2. Walk the Coastal Path

One of the best free things to do in Cavtat is to walk the coastal path. Known by the name Šetnica oko Rata, the coastal trail in Cavtat is a popular attraction because it offers impressive views of the coast and allows tourists to see most of the town in a short space of time. The trail is only a couple of miles long and I started the hike from Cavtat Parking Lot, making our way around the coast anticlockwise.

This quite beautiful and relatively flat trail leads through lush pine forest, which offers a pleasant break from the midday heat, along the shoreline, and around the bay into the Old Town. Along the way, you’ll come across plenty of places to stop and admire the sea views and secluded swimming spots. Make sure you buy a Paradiso ice cream at the end of your walk!

3. Cavtat Seaside Promenade

If you wonder what to do in Cavtat and have limited time, this walk is a must. That is a walk that you have to take.

The route starts from the port. It goes circularly around the hill but is always next to the sea.

Along the promenade, you will see many small beaches where people love to relax and swim off the rocks (better to have swim shoes).

4. Relax on Cavtat’s beaches

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to spend a bit of time in Cavtat enjoying the beach. If not, you’re seriously going to miss out because there’s a gorgeous beach here. Cavtat Beach is only short, but it makes up for its size with golden sands and amazing turquoise waters. In my opinion, you should spend at least one afternoon simply lying on the beach in the sun, swimming in the sea, and sipping a refreshing cocktail. You could bring your own beach towel with you and lie on the beach, but there are sun loungers available for hire.

Beach Sustjepan

One of the most popular beaches in Cavtat is Sustjepan Beach. It is situated in a beautiful location on the peninsula of the same name, Sustjepan, and fascinates with a fantastic view to the picturesque port. The beach is a well-kept concrete beach, where stairs lead quite comfortably into the sea. The water here is beautiful and crystal clear. Many also come here to go snorkeling. In the concrete sunbathing area you can rent sunshades and beach chairs, and there is also the possibility to rent kayaks on site.

Right next to the beach there is a restaurant and a really cool beach bar, which offers cool drinks including a great view.

Tip: On the peninsula Sustjepan and not far from the beach there is the beautiful Hotel Croatia, a 5-star hotel in a beautiful surrounding and quiet location.

Beach Zal

Another highlight among the most beautiful beaches of Cavtat is beach Zal. This long dream beach is located in the north of the coastal town, near the hotel Albatros. It is especially popular with families with children. This elongated bay is a fine pebble beach, which even partly changes into a sandy beach in the sea. Thus, bathing here is also possible without bathing shoes, which is appreciated by many holidaymakers.

There is a water bouncy castle for young and old, and a water sports center with kayaks, pedal boats and stand-up paddle rental, is located on Zal beach. Furthermore, a few good restaurants, bars and small snack bars provide the necessary food and drinks.

Tip: Popular with families and in top location only 2 minutes to the beach is the apartment House Glasnović, a fantastic place to stay for a beach vacation in Cavtat.

Beach Rat

Beach Rat is another recommended beach in Cavtat. This idyllic quiet bay is located on the wooded peninsula of the same name, Rat, just north of the port and the center. Here, a unique ambience of the green, shady pine forests and picturesque turquoise sea colors enchants you. The beach is a mixture of rocky and pebbled beaches, which is also suitable for children due to its gentle entrance into the sea. Just behind it, there is a cozy restaurant in the best location, wherefrom you can enjoy a wonderful view over the bay.

Tip: The tastefully furnished apartments of the Vacation House Cavtat inspire with a stunning and quiet location. It is also only a few minutes’ walk from the beautiful beach Rat.

Beach Kamen Mali

Another enchantingly beautiful natural bay is beach Kamen Mali in Cavtat. This beautiful rocky beach is particularly quiet and is hidden in a small bay. Directly behind it is a pine forest, which provides cool shade on hot summer days. It is a place where fewer tourists come to swim, so it’s a real insider tip for a few quiet hours by the sea and in nature. The sea is also wonderfully clear, making this bay ideal for snorkeling. Beach Kamen Mali is located almost at the outermost tip of the Rat peninsula and is connected to the center by a picturesque promenade.

Beach Ispod Gospe

The Beach Ispod Gospe is located right next to the marina and is a popular city beach of Cavtat. You can reach this beach in a few minutes by foot from the center of the town via the promenade. Here, one will enjoy a long, clean concrete beach, where you can also rent sunbeds. Natural shade is provided by the large pine trees, which also create a particularly romantic atmosphere. The view of the picturesque harbor is also beautiful, which you can enjoy while sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear sea.

Nearby there are some places to stay like charming vacation apartments, which are actually perfect for a beach holiday in Cavtat. Also the promenade with the many restaurants and bars is not far away from here.

Tip: Very close to the Beach Ispode Gsope are the Apartments Kralj, which convince with a lovely pool and a great location near the center of Cavtat.

Beach Kljucice

A wonderful natural jewel is the beautiful, hidden beach Kljucice. This is a rather secret bay, located on Rat peninsula in front of the town of Cavtat. Here you will find an exceptionally peaceful setting, the sea is turquoise blue and the fragrant pine trees provide natural shade. The sea is home to many fish, so you can explore an interesting underwater world while snorkeling. In general, the beach is a mixture of pebble and rocky beach. It is great that you can also rent some sunshades and sunbeds.

Beach Pasjaca

A real insider tip among the outstanding beaches in the nearer surroundings is Pasjaca Beach, which is located about 10 kilometers south of Cavtat city. Already the descent to the dream beach is exciting as the path leads along a steep rock face and even through a small tunnel. When you reach the bottom, a picture book beach scenery awaits you. Especially fascinating here are the impressive red rock walls, which form a fantastic contrast to the picturesque blue sea.

5. House of Vlaho Bukovac

That is the actual house of the painter Vlaho Bukovac. A 3-story building with a charming front yard secluded with high stone walls.

It is in Bukovceva 5, Cavtat. Make sure to double-check the opening hours.

The museum offers an app you can download and use as an audio guide through the different rooms.

You can see art presenting all the stages of the paintings oeuvre as part of the museum’s permanent exhibition. Vlaho Bukovac died in Prague. His remains were brought back to Croatia with high honors. You can find lots of information about his life and work here.

6. Visit Račić Mausoleum

The Mausoleum of the Račić family (Our Lady of Angels) is the work of the Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, built in 1922. It is located in the Saint Rocco Cemetery, on the highest point of the Rat Peninsula, above the urban centre of Cavtat. It can be approached from the southern side following the street near the Our Lady of Snow Franciscan Monastery, or continuing along Prijeko Street from the east.

In the place of today’s Mausoleum, used to be the Saint Rocco Chapel, which was yet again preceded by a medieval church consecrated to Saint Tryphon probably situated at the same spot. The Mausoleum of the Račić family was the first architectural work devised by Ivan Meštrović (1883-1962). It was constructed for the ship-owner family Račić between 1920 and 1922. Ivo Račić, followed by his two children, died a sudden death in 1919 due to the Spanish Flu. At the request of Marija, the widow of Ivo Račić and according to an earlier promise given to her daughter Marija Banac, Meštrović constructed a votive cemetery chapel consecrated to Our Lady of Angels.

The mausoleum has an octagonal layout with a prominent chapel in the shape of a Greek cross. The interior is rich with stylized sculptures and reliefs (Mother of God with the Child Jesus, angels as musicians, angel heads, Saint Rocco, the crucified Christ, portraits of members of the Račić family, floral motifs, etc.). Involved in the actual implementation of Meštrović’s project were assistant sculptors and stonemasons, and from 1921 also involved in the construction was the architect Harold Bilinić, later Meštrović’s permanent architectural co-worker. Construction of the mausoleum of the Račić family was completed in1922. Our Lady of Angels was consecrated on 14 October, when the posthumous remains of the deceased were transferred there. For this work Meštrović recieved the Grand Prix in 1925 at the International Exhibition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Art in Paris.

Best Places to Stay in Cavtat

Villa Filipa

Remisens Hotel Albatros

Cavtat Hotel

Remisens Hotel Epidaurus

Supetar

What is a good budget for Cavtat?

I recommend a budget of around £70-£90 per day. However, this will only cover you for cheap accommodation (if you’re sharing), an affordable restaurant meal, and perhaps a drink or two.

There are plenty of Cavtat tourist attractions on offer, so you’ll need to adjust your budget accordingly depending on what you want to include in your itinerary!

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Cavtat

In my opinion, Cavtat is the perfect base for your Croatia trip! As well as the variety of things to do in the town itself, there are ample day trip opportunities, including both Dubrovnik and Lokrum ( That I will mention in my next Blog-post)

Not to mention, you can visit two other countries from Cavtat, so there are plenty of options. Not only that, but this charming town is the perfect place to relax. If you’ve been wondering what to do in Cavtat, then hopefully this guide has given you plenty of ideas for your trip.