Things To Do
in Mljet
Mljet is a lush Adriatic island in Croatia, renowned for its pine forests, clear coves, and the Mljet National Park featuring two saltwater lakes. The island offers a tranquil escape with scenic cycling routes, quiet villages, and pristine swimming spots away from larger crowds. Its western coast around Polače and the southern beaches like Saplunara provide picturesque seascapes and easy day trips by boat or bicycle.
Visitors come for nature, gentle hikes, and serene Adriatic sunsets rather than a rowdy nightlife scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a refreshing walk through the lush trails of Mljet National Park. Marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this stunning natural environment. As the sun rises, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere around the beautiful lakes of Veliko and Malo Jezero.
After a leisurely picnic lunch by the lakeside, rent a kayak to explore the calm waters and hidden coves along the shoreline. Discover the small islet of St. Mary, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, where you can take a guided tour to learn about its rich history. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene beauty that surrounds you.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local taverns to indulge in traditional Dalmatian cuisine, including fresh seafood and homemade pasta. Enjoy the local wines while listening to the gentle sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll along the waterfront, taking in the starry sky.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the stunning sandy beaches of Mljet. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear waters and sunbathing on the soft sand. For the adventurous, try your hand at paddleboarding or windsurfing with rentals available nearby.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a leisurely beachside lunch at one of the local beach bars featuring fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in organized beach games like beach volleyball or beach soccer. Take a moment to explore the nearby rocky coves that offer a perfect spot for snorkeling.
As dusk falls, enjoy a beachside dinner, where the sound of waves adds to the ambiance of your meal. Sample local specialties such as grilled fish and fresh vegetables, paired with a glass of local wine. Cap off your day by watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🏨2-person, 1-night mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🚌Local transport (bus/taxi) for a day | $5-20 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and serene pace
- Accessible from Dubrovnik by ferry with scenic routes
- Limited public transport on the island
- Smaller selection of nightlife and dining compared to mainland Dalmatia
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gdje je ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mogu li platiti karticom?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Mljet
Visit one of these nice places.
The Mljet National Park lakes offer tranquil reflections, lush green shores, and a sense of serenity ideal for wide landscape shots.
A dramatic sea cave on the coast with turquoise water and dramatic light, perfect for dramatic ocean photography.
Golden sands backed by pine forests, ideal for beachscape and nature photography.
Harbor views with boats, stone walls, and red-tinted skies during golden hour.
Scenic overlooks over the island’s interior and the blue Adriatic beyond.
Food in Mljet
Mljet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Dalmatian fish stew with potatoes, garlic, and olive oil, often made with locally caught fish.
Must-Try!
Creamy risotto colored with squid ink, typically served with seafood and a splash of white wine.
A rich fish stew, usually served over polenta or with crusty bread for dipping.
Freshly caught fish, octopus, and shellfish simply grilled with olive oil, lemon, and herbs.
Variations using local octopus, tomatoes, and herbs, commonly found in seaside konobe.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal fresh produce, local cheeses, olive oil, and small seafood stalls along the harbor.
Casual seaside stalls offering grilled fish, octopus salad, and simple snacks in the peak season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'Dobar dan' (Good day) or 'Bok' (Hi) are appreciated; address with courtesy in conversations.
When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly and remove hats; show respect in interior spaces.
Moderate behavior in residential areas, especially late at night; enjoy a relaxed pace typical of Dalmatian life.
Safety
Tipping in Mljet
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is common if service charge is not included; round up the bill or add a small tip for good service in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; carry some cash for smaller villages and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flora; good for hiking and cycling with fewer crowds. Expect fresh seafood markets returning to full operation.
Peak sunshine and sea temperatures; busy in popular beaches and near Mljet National Park; book accommodations in advance and enjoy outdoor dining late into the evening.
Warm sea still inviting; fewer visitors; great for tranquil coastal walks and harvest-season cuisine.
Quiet with cooler temperatures; some tourist facilities may have reduced hours; ideal for off-season solitude and starry skies by the water.
Mljet at Night
Hiking in Mljet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Loop trail around the lake offering forest shade, lake views, and moderate elevation changes.
Coastal route with sea views, leading to secluded beaches and quieter coves.
Airports
How to reach Mljet by plane.
Main international gateway with frequent European connections; transfer to Mljet via road and ferry routes.
Another major option with broader international connections; longer transfer to Mljet but accessible by road and ferry.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Croats with seasonal influx from Europe; small villages maintain a traditional Dalmatian character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Calm coastal waters ideal for exploring coves and lakes.
Transparent waters provide visibility for marine life and underwater features.
Quiet roads and scenic routes around the island for road and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mljet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on fish-free Mediterranean dishes, fresh vegetables, olive oil-based preparations, and cheese-based plates; many konobe offer vegetarian options.
Choose grilled fish, salads, and fresh seafood; confirm that bread and polenta are prepared gluten-free or request alternatives.
Ask for olive oil-based dressings and seafood-forward dishes; most Mediterranean preparations use olive oil rather than dairy.