Konavle is the southernmost area of Croatia, a fertile valley between the sea and the mountains south-east of Dubrovnik, reaching to the border with Montenegro. Dubrovnik Airport is here, and Cavtat is its main town.
Why visit
Inland, vineyards and stone villages surround the Sokol Grad fortress and the Ljuta river with its old mills. Family wineries produce Malvasija dubrovačka and other local wines, and the area is known for its embroidery and folk costume.
Konavle is a calmer base for Dubrovnik, with Cavtat’s harbour and beaches and quiet countryside a short drive apart.
Where to stay
Cavtat for the sea and boats to Dubrovnik; village guesthouses and agritourism farms for the countryside.
Getting there and around
Konavle starts about 15 km south-east of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik Airport is at Čilipi in the middle of the valley; a car is best for the villages.
Parking
Parking is easy in the villages; Cavtat’s centre has paid parking.
Day trips
Nearby destinations
Dalmatia
Biograd na Moru
A lively seaside town south of Zadar, gateway to the Kornati islands and Lake Vrana.
Dalmatia
Imotski
A hinterland town above two spectacular karst lakes, half an hour from the Makarska Riviera.
Dalmatia
Krka National Park
Waterfalls and river canyons inland from Šibenik, with Skradinski buk as the highlight.
Dalmatia
Makarska Riviera
Sixty kilometres of pebble beaches between Brela and Gradac, under the wall of Biokovo mountain.
Frequently asked questions
Is Konavle a good base for Dubrovnik?
Yes, especially Cavtat, which has boats to Dubrovnik’s old harbour.
What is Sokol Grad?
A medieval fortress on a rock above the valley, now a small museum.