When to Visit Cavtat

Deciding when to visit Cavtat is a crucial part of planning your trip. Explore the distinct seasons and how they can influence your vacation experience in Cavtat below.

November to March (Off-Season)

During the winter months, many tourist attractions and facilities in Cavtat and the Dubrovnik area wind down or close entirely. This period is quieter and can be appealing if you prefer a more tranquil visit without the usual tourist crowds.

April (Spring - Start of Season)

Things begin to reopen in April as the tourist season starts to pick up. The weather can be pleasant, though the sea temperature remains quite cool, making swimming less appealing for those sensitive to cold water. For those not interested in swimming, April offers a great opportunity to explore Cavtat and the Dubrovnik area with fewer tourists around.

May and June (Late Spring to Early Summer)

May sees warmer days with high temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F), dipping to cooler evenings around 15°C (59°F). The water is still refreshing at this time, gradually warming up through June. June is particularly lovely with daytime highs around 27°C (81°F) and nighttime lows around 19°C (66°F). The water temperature in June can be more inviting for swimming.

July and August (Peak Summer)

These are the hottest months, with daytime temperatures often reaching up to 30°C (86°F) or higher, and nighttime temperatures rarely dropping below 22°C (72°F). The Adriatic Sea reaches its warmest temperatures, making it perfect for swimming. However, July and August also see the highest influx of tourists, including many cruise ship visitors, so expect the city to be very busy.

September (Early Fall)

September marks the beginning of the shoulder season, with daytime temperatures still warm around 25°C (77°F) but cooler nights around 18°C (64°F). The sea remains warm enough for swimming and the crowds start to thin out, making it a popular time for those looking to enjoy the tail end of summer weather.

October (Late Fall - End of Season)

Temperatures in October are cooler but still pleasant, averaging 20°C (68°F) during the day and 15°C (59°F) at night. The water begins to cool down, and tourist activity decreases significantly after the first half of the month, making it a good time for visitors who prefer a quieter Cavtat and the Dubrovnik area.

Cavtat Water Temperatures for Swimming

Most people find swimming in Cavtat enjoyable when the water temperature is above 20°C (68°F), with many locals considering anything above 22°C (71.6°F) ideal for swimming. Below are graphs of the water temperatures in both Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F) for each month. Use these graphs to determine the best time for you to visit Cavtat, Croatia if you want to swim in its beautiful waters.

Cruise Ship Traffic

Cavtat does not accommodate cruise ships directly, as the town is too small; instead, cruise ships dock in nearby Dubrovnik. Consequently, Cavtat does not experience the influx of thousands of visitors disembarking directly into the town, as seen in Dubrovnik. However, many cruise ship passengers do visit Cavtat, typically arriving by water ferry or tour bus, but the numbers are significantly fewer than those seen in Dubrovnik's old town.

The peak period for cruise ships in the region coincides with the busiest tourist months in Dubrovnik, namely July and August. These months see the highest concentration of tourists in Dubrovnik's old town. If you prefer a quieter visit with fewer crowds, consider traveling in May, June, or September. During these months, the weather remains pleasant, and the number of tourists is substantially reduced, providing a more relaxed atmosphere and easier access to local attractions.

Our Recommendation

When planning a visit to Cavtat and the surrounding Dubrovnik area, choosing the right time of year is crucial for maximizing your experience, particularly concerning the weather and crowd sizes. For those who thrive in warm temperatures and consider swimming a must, July and August are ideal. These months offer perfect conditions for sunbathing and enjoying the sea. The intense summer heat makes the cool waters especially inviting, and lounging on the sun-warmed rocks is a delight.

On the other hand, if you're not a fan of high temperatures or prefer to avoid the crowds of peak tourist season, early to mid-September is an excellent choice. During this period, the weather starts to cool, providing a more comfortable climate, yet the sea remains invitingly warm from the summer's accumulated heat. This time offers a wonderful balance, allowing for comfortable exploration and enjoyable swims, with the added benefit of fewer tourists, making for a more relaxed visit.

Croatian Holidays

When planning your trip to Cavtat and the Dubrovnik area, it’s crucial to consider Croatian holidays, as they can impact the availability of local services. These holidays may affect service availability similar to Sundays, when many pharmacies, grocery stores, and government offices, such as post offices, are typically closed. However, you’ll find that most restaurants and bars usually remain open on Sundays.

If you are planning to stay in an Airbnb and your arrival falls on a Sunday or a public holiday, you might face difficulties finding an open grocery store to purchase essentials. Moreover, it's worth noting that in Croatia, some restaurants and bars may be closed on Mondays. To avoid any inconvenience, it is advisable to check the operating hours on Google and confirm directly with the establishments before finalizing any plans. This small step can help ensure your visit is smooth and enjoyable, without any unexpected disruptions.