Things to do in Lapad

Lapad is a laid-back neighborhood in Dubrovnik that provides an easy access to everything you need while you’re on holiday. It’s located on a small peninsula just west of the Old Town. You can choose it as a peaceful base while you’re exploring Dubrovnik, especially if you’re visiting with your family. It has beaches, cafes, walking paths, and restaurants all within easy reach.

Most of the area can be easily explored on foot, but there’s enough going on to keep things interesting for several days. We’ll share ideas on things to do in Lapad and present you the options you’ll have in case you decide to choose it for your stay or just a quick visit.

One of the first things to do in Lapad – walk the promenade

The Lapad promenade is the most charming part of this Dubrovnik neighborhood. This wide, flat pedestrian street is officially called Šetalište Kralja Zvonimira. It has palm trees, cafes and local shops. It stretches from the main roundabout in Lapad all the way to the beach. You can take a walk, sit on one of the benches under the trees or stop for an ice cream along the way.

The promenade is smooth and flat, so it’s convenient even for strollers and wheelchairs. Sometimes in the evenings you can come across a street musician or two, especially during the summer months. Many of the cafes have outdoor tables, where you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast or afternoon coffee.

In the mornings, you’ll see joggers and people walking their dogs. By late afternoon, the promenade fills up with people out for a walk or heading to dinner. Some of the restaurants serve traditional Croatian food, while others offer more international dishes. Prices are usually more reasonable than in the Old Town. A walk here is a nice way to get from place to place and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Spend the day at Lapad beach

Lapad Beach is the main beach in the neighborhood and one of the easiest to get to in Dubrovnik. It’s located at the end of Lapad promenade. The beach itself is a mix of pebbles and flat areas, with ladders for getting in and out of the sea. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are showers nearby.

The sea is shallow close to shore, so it’s perfect for families with kids. There’s usually a lifeguard on duty during the main summer months. If you’re in the mood for something more active, you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or pedal boats from the water sports center.

Around the beach there’s a paved path that links it to nearby hotels and other swimming spots. In the evenings, it’s filled with locals and tourists taking a stroll. There are ice cream stands and drink kiosks you can stop by, and there are also some cafes that stay open late. Lapad Beach is a solid, family-friendly option that’s easy to include in your plans.

Explore the coastal walking trail to Babin Kuk

Starting from Lapad beach, you can take a walk on a beautiful trail by the coastline. It will take you to Babin Kuk, a nearby area with more hotels and green spaces. This path sticks close to the sea, with great views, hidden spots for sunbathing, and the occasional ladder if you want to jump in for a swim. Walking the full route takes about 30 minutes at a relaxed pace.

This trail is especially popular later in the day, when it’s cooler and the light over the sea is just right. Pine trees provide some shade, and you’ll see the Elafiti Islands in the distance. Every now and then, there’s a small cove where you can stop for a quiet swim. These spots are usually pretty peaceful. Some parts of the path pass by hotel areas, but you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the walk.

Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the path can get a bit rocky, and bring some water since there are no shops along the way. Once you reach Babin Kuk, you’ll find places to rest and grab a drink.

Visit Sunset beach for an evening drink

Just north of Lapad Beach you’ll find Sunset Beach, part of Uvala Lapad Bay. This beach has beach bars, a paved terrace, and a sandy area where you can walk straight into the sea. It’s especially nice in the evenings.

You can enjoy cocktails and snacks while sitting in the comfortable lounge chairs. If you’re just passing through, there are also public benches along the walkway. The beach area is lit up at night, which makes it a safe and pleasant place for an evening stroll. In the summer, you might catch live music or a DJ on the weekends.

While you can swim here, most people come to enjoy the atmosphere. Sunset Beach is a relaxed spot that’s easy to reach on foot. It’s a favorite for families after dinner, with space for kids to play and fewer people around compared to daytime.

Hike up Petka Hill Park

If you’re looking to stretch your legs and enjoy a bit of nature, explore Petka Hill Park. It’s a green space right behind Lapad with walking and biking trails, shaded paths, and quiet viewpoints. You can start the walk from several spots in Lapad, and within minutes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a forest.

The trails are easy to follow, and the terrain isn’t too steep, so it’s suitable for most people. You’ll come across locals walking their dogs, people out for a jog, and others just enjoying the peaceful surroundings. If you make your way to the top, you’ll get to enjoy some fantastic views over Lapad Bay and the nearby islands.

It’s a great place for a morning hike, a picnic in the shade, or even just a short stroll if you’re looking for something quiet. Bring a bottle of water and maybe a snack since there aren’t any cafes inside the park.

Grab a drink at Cave Bar More

If you’re after a unique spot for a drink, Cave Bar More should be high on your list. As the name suggests, this bar is built inside a natural cave. It’s part of Hotel More, but the bar is open to everyone, even if you’re not a hotel guest.

Inside, you’ll find a cool, cozy space with stone walls and soft lighting. It’s a great spot to escape the summer heat or to enjoy a drink in a truly one-of-a-kind setting. There’s also a terrace right by the sea, where you can sit with a cocktail or glass of local wine while listening to the waves.

The bar serves a good mix of drinks, from classic cocktails to regional wines and beers. You won’t find a full food menu here, but there are light snacks available. During the day, you can even swim in the small beach area below and then head up for a drink.

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant

Lapad has plenty of restaurants where you can sit down for a nice meal without the hassle. One long-time favorite is Restaurant Levanat, close to the sea with a beautiful view. The menu includes seafood, pasta, and grilled options, and the outdoor terrace is a great place to be around sunset.

For something a bit quieter, Pantarul is another solid choice. This spot focuses on seasonal ingredients and modern Croatian dishes. It’s a little off the main promenade but still within walking distance. It’s popular with both locals and tourists who come back year after year, so it’s a good idea to book a table in advance during summer.

If you’re looking for vegetarian options or something different, try Shizuku for Japanese food or GreenGarden for casual meals. Prices vary depending on where you go, but generally, dining in Lapad is a bit more affordable and relaxed than eating in the city center.

Take the kids to a shaded playground or ice cream stop

At the start of the promenade, there’s a shaded playground with slides, swings, and benches for parents. It’s right next to a big cafe with a terrace, so you can take a break while the kids play.

You’ll also find smaller parks throughout Lapad where children can run around. Near Lapad Beach, traffic is limited, so it feels safer for kids. And when it’s time for a treat, there are plenty of ice cream stops available. One of the favorites is Peppino’s Gelato, with lots of flavors and generous scoops.

Many of the restaurants and cafes here are prepared for families, so they include high chairs and kids’ menus. This part of town is generally well-suited for families looking for an easy, stress-free place to spend time together.

Plenty of laid-back things to do in Lapad

Lapad has everything you need for a relaxed, smooth holiday. The beaches are close by, the walking areas are scenic, and there are lots of restaurants offering delicious food. You can plan your whole day without needing a car or a detailed schedule. You don’t have to worry about public transport or long lines.

It’s perfect for those who want to avoid big crowds but still enjoy the coast. And there are plenty of laid-back things to do in Lapad that you can easily fit into your plans. From morning dips in the sea to quiet evening walks, this part of Dubrovnik has a nice atmosphere that makes it easy to relax to the fullest.

Photography: Panoramio

Get in touch:

Explore Our Tours: