Cavtat, Croatia

Cavtat highlights

Known for beach, coastal town, historical center, marina, museum (art), palace, peninsula, promenade, viewpoint, franciscan monastery, franciscan church

Cavtat is a small charming coastal town nestled in southern Croatia, roughly 20 kilometers south of the famous Dubrovnik. It sits on a sheltered bay with two small peninsulas, creating a naturally protected harbour that has attracted settlers for millennia. This settlement is the largest and most significant town in the Konavle region, often called the ＂Adriatic Gem＂ for its breathtaking beauty.

You understand, it is impossible to see Croatia just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Croatia in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Cavtat, along with other Croatia' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Cavtat, or contact us directly for a custom tour in Croatia. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!

Cavtat, Croatia
Monterrasol small group car tours to

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Last reviewed: 6 May 2026

Cavtat description

The story of Cavtat begins long ago when Greek settlers from the city of Epidaurus founded a colony here in the 4th century BC, naming it Epidauros. When the Romans took control in 228 BC, they changed the name to Epidaurum, and the town became a significant Roman colony. At the Middle Ages Cavtat was known under Italian name Ragusa Vecchia. Today's name ＂Cavtat＂ actually comes from ＂Civitas Vetus,＂ a Latin phrase that means ＂old city＂. The people of Dubrovnik used this name to refer to their original, ancient settlement, highlighting the deep historical bond between these two Adriatic towns.

A pivotal moment in local history occurred around 614 AD when Slavic and Avar tribes sacked and destroyed the Roman city of Epidaurum. The terrified survivors fled to a small nearby island where they eventually established a new settlement called Laus, which later grew and developed into the mighty Republic of Dubrovnik. This event means that Cavtat is, in a very real sense, the ancient mother city of Dubrovnik, a fact that fascinates history lovers.

After the destruction of Epidaurum, Cavtat was rebuilt and spent many centuries under the control of its powerful neighbour, the Republic of Dubrovnik. During this period, the town became the second most important port, commercial, and administrative centre in the entire Republic, following Dubrovnik itself. This era left a lasting architectural mark on Cavtat, visible today in its elegant stone villas and Renaissance-era churches.

Visitors should begin their exploration in the charming Old Town, which offers a welcome escape from the summer heat with its narrow, winding streets. A stroll through these lanes will delight art and history enthusiasts, who can admire the beautiful Gothic-Renaissance buildings and the old Duke's Palace. The area is also filled with cosy cafes, family-run restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Cavtat was the birthplace of Vlaho Bukovac (1855-1922), one of Croatia's most celebrated painters who introduced impressionism and modern art to his homeland. His former family home has been converted into a wonderful little museum where you can see his original paintings, drawings, sketches, personal letters, and photographs. The museum is located in the Old Town and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of this internationally renowned artist.

Perched on a hill above the town in the old cemetery stands the magnificent Racic family mausoleum, a striking white-domed structure visible from afar. This impressive monument was designed in 1921 by Ivan Mestrovic, Croatia's most famous sculptor and architect, and is built entirely from high-quality white stone from the island of Brac. The mausoleum's interior is decorated with symbolic Art Nouveau sculptures and offers a breathtaking panoramic view over Cavtat and the open sea, making the short uphill walk well worth the effort.

At the foot of Sveti Roko hill, at the very end of the promenade, you will find a Franciscan monastery and the small church of Our Lady of the Snow, both founded in 1484. The monastery has been converted into a boarding house, but the church remains open and active, containing important early Renaissance paintings. Inside, visitors can admire a famous canvas by Vlaho Bukovac depicting the Madonna and Child looking protectively over Cavtat at dusk, a truly moving piece of art.

Located right in the town centre, the parish Church of St. Nicholas was first built in 1484 and is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors and travellers. Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations, and its current bell tower was dedicated in 1835. The interior is adorned with a stunning Baroque altar and a precious 15th-century icon of St. Nicholas, alongside a painting gallery featuring works by renowned local artists.

Another significant historical building is the Rector's Palace, a carefully restored structure that now serves as a museum open to the public. This building tells the story of Cavtat's rich history, including the influences of the Roman, Venetian, and Dubrovnik Republic periods. It is an excellent stop for those wanting to understand the layers of history that have shaped this resilient coastal town.

One of the town's highlights is its stunning seaside promenade, which has recently been refurbished and now serves as the vibrant social heart of Cavtat. Lined with palm trees and offering shade from pines, this walkway is perfect for a leisurely morning coffee or a romantic evening stroll at sunset. From this path, you can watch yachts bobbing in the marina, enjoy a delicious ice cream, or simply sit on a bench and soak in the relaxed Mediterranean ambiance.

This scenic walking path that winds around the Rat peninsula is one of the best free activities in Cavtat. This enjoyable trail is about 1.2 kilometres long, can be covered in about an hour of easy walking, and offers fantastic views of the Adriatic Sea and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Along the way, you will discover hidden coves, quiet spots for swimming, and benches where you can rest in the shade of pine trees while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.

Cavtat is blessed with crystal-clear waters and several lovely beaches. ZAL Beach is the largest and most accessible, located near the hotels on the western side, featuring small pebbles and a gentle slope into the sea that is perfect for families. For a quieter experience, you can explore the beaches on the Rat peninsula or the more secluded coves on the Tiha Bay side, where the water can feel refreshingly cooler due to underwater springs. Most beaches are a mix of pebbles, rocks, and concrete sunbathing areas, and sea shoes are highly recommended.

Cavtat enjoys a warm temperate Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and short, mild winters. July and August are the hottest months, with average daily highs reaching 31°C (88°F) and sea temperatures around 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming. The best time to visit for pleasant weather and fewer crowds is between May and October, with May, June, and September being particularly ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Cavtat is loved by tourists because it offers the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation without the overwhelming crowds of nearby Dubrovnik. It serves as an ideal quiet base for exploring the wider region, with easy access to Dubrovnik. With its elegant promenade, rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and delicious fresh seafood, Cavtat provides a truly unforgettable and peaceful Adriatic escape.

Cavtat related tours

Sorry, we have no any pre-designed tour passing trough this place yet. If you would like to visit this place, please contact us.

Transfers to Cavtat

Currently we know prices for these transfers to Cavtat:

Transfers to Cavtat from Bosnia and Herzegovina

• transfer from Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Kravica waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Medjugorje (Međugorje), Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Tvrdos (Tvrdoš) monastery, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

• transfer from Vjetrenica cave, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Cavtat, Croatia

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