Cavtat vs Dubrovnik

Where Should You Stay?

One common question we often encounter is why someone would choose to stay in Cavtat if their primary destination is Dubrovnik. It's a legitimate query, and even on our first trip to Croatia, we initially stayed in Dubrovnik, unaware of Cavtat. Here are several reasons why we now recommend Cavtat over Dubrovnik for your stay…

Proximity to the Airport

Cavtat is just a 5-minute drive from the airport, compared to Dubrovnik, where travel time can be up to an hour depending on traffic. After a long flight, the convenience of quickly settling in and jumping into the ocean is a significant plus.

Town Atmosphere

Cavtat offers quintessential small-town, European vibes—peaceful and picturesque, unlike Dubrovnik, which is a bustling tourist hub. If you prefer tranquil strolls and relaxing ocean dips without the crowds, Cavtat is ideal. However, if you're after high energy and vibrant nightlife, Dubrovnik might be more your pace.

Walkability

Cavtat boasts well-maintained walking paths along the water, offering serene strolls that are a far cry from the bustling streets of Dubrovnik, where the historic walls obstruct views of the sea.

Restaurants

Both locations boast excellent restaurants. Although Dubrovnik offers a wider selection, Cavtat provides ample quality dining options, especially if you plan a few meals in Dubrovnik during your stay. Check out our top Cavtat restaurant recommendations.

Accessibility to Dubrovnik

It's very easy to travel between Cavtat and Dubrovnik, with water taxis making the journey in about 45 minutes. This setup offers the best of both worlds: Cavtat's tranquility and the historic grandeur of Dubrovnik.

Swimming Spots

Cavtat is surrounded by ideal swimming spots—small, quaint, and fun. In contrast, Dubrovnik's beaches often feel overcrowded and commercialized, lacking the intimate swim spots found in Cavtat.

Exploring the Region

If you're interested in visiting the Konavle region or Montenegro, Cavtat is closer, making it a more convenient base for regional exploration. However, Dubrovnik is nearer to destinations like Bosnia and Split.

Proximity to Nearby Towns

Cavtat is closer to Srebreno, Mlini, and Kupari, offering easier access if you plan to explore these areas.

Nightlife

The primary downside to Cavtat is the limited nightlife options compared to Dubrovnik, which offers a much larger array of accommodations and a vibrant party scene suitable for younger travelers or those looking to socialize extensively.

Airplanes Overhead

Due to its close proximity to the airport, Cavtat experiences airplanes flying overhead at relatively low altitudes. This unique aspect of the location is typically not seen as a nuisance and even adds a distinct charm to the area, with many tourists finding the sight of incoming planes quite fascinating. However, it's an important consideration for those who may be seeking a quieter environment. To better understand what this experience is like, you can view incoming planes over Cavtat in this YouTube video. 

Overall, while Cavtat provides a more laid-back and accessible experience, Dubrovnik caters to those seeking a bustling city atmosphere with extensive cultural and nightlife activities. The choice largely depends on your personal travel preferences and what you hope to get out of your visit.

For a visual reference, take a look at our side-by-side of Cavtat (left) and Dubrovnik (right), below.