Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline and proximity to some of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks make it a perfect base for outdoor adventures. The city’s mix of historic charm and access to pristine natural environments offers travelers a wide range of tour options. Whether you want to cruise through saltwater lakes, cycle scenic trails, or explore waterfalls, Dubrovnik has a tour for you. We especially love the boat tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands for its personalized experience, and the private Krka National Park trip for its comfort and exclusivity. These tours showcase Croatia’s natural beauty with a mix of adventure and relaxation.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best national park tours in Dubrovnik, highlighting what makes each one unique. From full-day boat excursions to guided private trips, we analyze value, itinerary highlights, and suitability for different types of travelers. Whatever your interests or energy levels, there’s a tour here to help you enjoy Croatia’s extraordinary landscapes.
Below, you’ll find a variety of options, each offering a different way to experience Croatia’s natural wonders. Whether you’re a water lover, an avid cyclist, or seeking a private escape, this list covers the essentials.
1. Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands
Explore the southern Dalmatian Islands with this full-day boat tour. For approximately 10 hours, you’ll sail across the ocean surrounded by some of Croatia’s most stunning scenery. The tour includes visits to Mljet’s saltwater lakes, swimming at Odysseus Cave, and exploring the historic town of Lopud Island. The crew takes care of safety and logistics, providing a relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling.
What makes this tour stand out is its personal touch—your crew is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring you get to enjoy the natural beauty without feeling rushed. The highlight is Odysseus Cave, where snorkeling in vivid blue waters lets you marvel at marine life. The stop at Lopud Island offers a peaceful break among tall palm trees and a Benedictine church. The inclusion of all admission fees, bottled water, and safety gear adds to the excellent value.
Good reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew—”Ante was capable and informative, feeling very safe and secure,” says one traveler. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, immersive day with an emphasis on personalized service and natural beauty, ideal for those who love boating and outdoor exploration.
2. E-bike & boat – Dubrovnik to Mljet National Park
For travelers craving an active day that combines sightseeing by sea and land, this e-bike and boat tour starting from Gruž Harbor is a fantastic pick. For about 10 hours, you’ll enjoy panoramic rides, swimming, and exploring Mljet’s lush landscape. The tour begins with a scenic speedboat ride to Prapratno Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore or take in the views of olive and pine trees.
The core of the experience is visiting Mljet’s renowned National Park, often called the “green pearl of the Adriatic.” Here, you can explore by e-bike or electric train, riding through the park’s pine forests, salt lakes, and visiting the monastery of St. Mary from the 12th century. The trip is designed for those who want to cover ground without tiring too much, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
One highlight is the stop at Lopud Island, which offers a cozy spot for coffee or a quick refreshment before heading back. The overall value is high, especially considering the extensive itinerary and included boat ride. The reviews mention the smooth logistics and beautiful scenery, with one reviewer noting, “The panoramic views and peaceful environment made this a highlight of my trip.”
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want a mix of biking, cruising, and cultural discovery, all in one day.
3. Mljet National Park trip – Bike, Boat & Beach experience
This tour packs a lot into a single day, perfect for those who want to see Mljet’s highlights without spending too much time on logistics. For about 200-250 words, the trip includes a scenic boat ride, exploring Mljet’s salt lakes by bike, and relaxing on a beach. It’s designed for nature lovers who want an active, outdoor experience that emphasizes serenity and natural beauty.
The main attractions include the saltwater lakes, where you can swim or paddle, and the chance to explore Mljet’s lush forests. The highlight is the opportunity to combine different modes of transport—boat, bike, and beach—to enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes. This tour is a great value for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
While it’s a smaller-scale experience with only four reviews, the positive feedback underscores its personalized touch and the quality of the scenery. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a flexible, light-paced day filled with outdoor activities and time to unwind.
Bottom Line: A compact, engaging way to experience Mljet’s natural charm, especially suited for active couples or small groups looking for a varied day.
4. Krka National Park – Private Excursion from Dubrovnik with Mercedes Vehicle
If comfort and privacy matter most, this private tour to Krka National Park is hard to beat. For around $1,008.49, up to three people enjoy a luxurious Mercedes ride from Dubrovnik, with all the logistics handled for you. The journey takes approximately 12 hours, including a stop at Bacina Lakes and the main attraction—Krka’s waterfalls.
Once at Krka, you’ll explore the park’s scenic trails, marvel at Skradinski Buk, and even visit an ancient monastery within the park’s bounds. The trip is ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. The private vehicle allows flexibility in pacing and stops, making this experience more relaxed and tailored.
Reviewers praise the luxury aspect and the intimate experience, with one sharing: “The private transport made all the difference, and the guide’s knowledge added depth to the visit.” While the price is higher, the convenience and exclusive experience often justify the cost for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking comfort.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers valuing privacy, comfort, and a personalized touch, with enough time to relax and take in Krka’s natural wonders.
5. Private Tour of National Park Plitvice from Dubrovnik
For the true nature enthusiast, a private day trip to the famous Plitvice Lakes is an unforgettable experience. The tour involves a scenic drive from Dubrovnik to Croatia’s most iconic waterfalls, with an emphasis on the park’s dramatic lakes, waterfalls, and lush surroundings. This trip is perfect for those who want a more exclusive, in-depth experience of Croatia’s most famous national park.
The tour offers a tailored itinerary, with enough time to walk the wooden pathways that wind around 16 interconnected lakes. The scenery is breathtaking—crystal-clear waters cascading over travertine barriers, with vibrant colors and lush greenery everywhere. The guide’s insights make the experience even richer, providing context about the park’s geology and ecosystem.
Although the price is higher at $941 for a group of up to three, the privacy and personalized attention are worth it. Reviewers note the tranquility and beauty of the park, and the chance to see Croatia’s natural beauty away from crowds.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers wanting a private, immersive experience at one of Croatia’s most breathtaking sites.
6. Luxury Day tour to Krka National Park and Waterfalls
This high-end tour combines comfort, exclusivity, and spectacular scenery. For around $1,074.03 per group (up to 7), you’ll start with a visit to Ston Old Town, famous for its fortifications and oyster farms, before heading to Krka National Park. The park’s waterfalls, including Skradinski Buk, are the main draw, and the guided walk takes you along scenic trails and swimming spots.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on quality and exclusivity—luxurious transport, a private guide, and a flexible schedule. You’ll enjoy walking along well-maintained trails, taking dips in the pools, and learning about the area’s history. The stop at Ston offers a culinary bonus with the chance to taste oysters and explore the salt pans.
While the reviews are limited, the detailed itinerary and focus on comfort make this a good choice for those seeking a premium experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want to combine outdoor beauty with comfort and cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prioritize comfort and exclusivity, with an emphasis on scenic beauty and cultural sights.
7. National Park Krka Private Tour from Dubrovnik
For a personalized experience at Krka, this private tour offers flexible timing and direct hotel pickup. At about $421.30 per person, it’s a more economical way to enjoy the park’s waterfalls, with a focus on tailored exploration. The 12-hour trip includes a ride in a comfortable vehicle and stops at key sites like Skradinski Buk and the Krka Monastery.
This tour is ideal if you want a private, hassle-free day with plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The detailed description highlights the natural features—the canyon, waterfalls, and cultural sites—that make Krka a must-see. The review mentions the “spectacular views and well-organized itinerary,” making it a reliable choice for independent-minded travelers.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a private, flexible day trip without the high cost of larger group tours, and eager to see Krka’s highlights at their own pace.
How to Choose the Best National Park Tour in Dubrovnik
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interest in outdoor activities, and desired level of comfort. If you prefer an active, all-included boat trip with snorkeling and kayaking, Tour #1 Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands is hard to beat. For a quieter, private experience with luxury transport, the Krka National Park private trip offers exclusivity and flexibility.
Those with limited time might prefer the Mljet Bike, Boat & Beach or the Krka Waterfalls tours, both providing rich scenery without demanding too much planning. If you want a truly immersive, private experience, the Plitvice Lakes or Krka private trips are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to ensure availability. Consider your fitness level, interests in boating, biking, or cultural sights, and how much time you want to dedicate to each experience.
Final Thoughts
From boat trips around Mljet to private luxury excursions at Krka, Dubrovnik offers a wide range of ways to enjoy Croatia’s stunning national parks. If you’re after an immersive day with a mix of water and land, Tour #1 offers a balanced, scenic adventure. For those who value comfort and privacy, Tours #4 and #7 provide personalized, relaxed experiences. Budget travelers and active explorers will find plenty of value in the biking and boat options, while nature lovers seeking tranquility will enjoy the peaceful parks.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these incredible landscapes. Whether you prefer a full-day boat cruise, a private guided trip, or a cycling adventure, Croatia’s natural parks are waiting to impress.