Dubrovnik is one of the best-preserved medieval walled towns in Europe, an ancient place on the shores of the Adriatic Sea that's flanked by mountains. Its architectural and natural beauty was not lost on the makers of the global television mega-hit Game of Thrones who made it their location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

During your time in the city embark on Game of Thrones-themed boat tours that let you visit beaches, medieval buildings, gorgeous bays and green-covered islands of great beauty. Must-do trips also include those aboard a replica galleon and a replica of a traditional 16th-century Karaka ship.

What are the best places to visit with a boat tour from Dubrovnik?

Elafiti Islands

Elafiti is a small archipelago of islands located just off the northwest coast of Dubrovnik. The collective name comes from elafo, the Greek word for deer and in ancient times there were large deer populations on the islands. Today, they are known for their pristine beaches and lush evergreen Mediterranean vegetation. Only the three main islands are permanently inhabited.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Several combo tours include visits to shooting locations of Game of Thrones in the old town such as the Rector's Palace and Sponza Palace. They also provide sea views of the city skyline that will be familiar to many TV viewers as it doubled up as the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

Bay of Kotor

Kotor has a stunningly beautiful bay in southwestern Montenegro. Among its must-see attractions are the walled old town, the San Giovanni Fortress that sits behind it, the town of Perast and the mountainous scenery.

Mljet

Mljet is the southernmost of the larger Elafiti islands and approximately two-thirds of its 100 square kilometres is covered by forest. Among its touristic sights are the national park in its western half, the lakes Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (Big Lake and Small Lake) and an abandoned 12th-century Benedictine monastery.

Kolocep

Kolocep is one of the three permanently inhabited Elafiti Islands and the closest to the city. Fewer than 200 inhabitants live here and much of the small island is covered by forests that are interrupted by olive groves and vineyards. Popular spots are the sandy beaches that are lapped by clear waters.

What kind of boat tours are available in Dubrovnik?

There are several different types of exciting Dubrovnik boat tours to choose from. If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, you may want to immerse yourself in the world of the Seven Kingdoms with a combo cruise that includes a walking tour to shooting locations. You'll also get the chance to dress up as your favourite character from the show while onboard the same ship on which Daenerys Targaryen sailed in the series.

Those with romance on their mind will thrill to beautiful sunset dinner cruises on a replica of a 16th-century Karaka ship. Meanwhile, nature lovers are catered for with full-day cruises onboard a galleon to the green-covered Elafiti Islands that include trips ashore to explore seaside scenery and picturesque villages. This attractive group of islands can also be visited with a four-hour private boat tour.

Dubrovnik boat tours also travel to Kotor Bay in the neighbouring country of Montenegro. You'll enjoy magnificent views of the coastline and be able to stroll around the old towns in Kotor and Perast.

Among the other popular types of boat trips available are luxury speedboat tours or excursions that includes music provided by local musicians. During this excursion, you'll be treated to a delicious lunch.

Some of the boat trips include drinks and refreshments while others do not. If none are provided, it's a good idea to bring some water with you at the very least if you are away from the shore for a few hours.

How much should I budget for a Dubrovnik boat tour?

Dubrovnik boat tours attract a range of prices that depend on the type of cruise and its itinerary. Prices start at around €24 per person for a galleon cruise of the Elafiti Islands and go all the way up to €700 for a luxury speedboat tour for up to six people. Numerous trips cost between €50 and €100 such as a Dubrovnik dinner cruise that costs €62 and a lunch cruise with traditional music that will set you back to € 54.

How long does a boat trip take?

The shortest Dubrovnik boat tour duration is 1.5 hours which is for a Game of Thrones boat tour that explores some of the TV show's shooting locations. The most extended boat trips are for one full day such as the Montenegro boat trip to Kotor and Perast. Other boat trip durations include two-hour, five-hour and six-hour jaunts.

Where are the boat tour departure points?

Your boat trip can depart from any of four ports. They are the dock in front of Obala Stjepana Radića 16 and the old town port. Boats that are heading to the Elafiti Islands depart from Port Gruž. If you book a Montenegro boat trip, your departure will be just over the border crossing with Montenegro.

When is a good time to come to Dubrovnik for a boat trip?

The best time to visit Dubrovnik for a boat tour is during June, July and August when the weather is hot. The shoulder months of May and September are also good months to come. Although the weather is not as predictable or as reliable as the summer, you can still enjoy many warm and pleasant days.

Which other water activities are available in Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik offers many opportunities for water sports' fans.

• Kayaking. Kayak tours are the most popular activity in Dubrovnik. You can tour the waters around Dubrovnik or visit the Elaphite Islands by kayak.
• Snorkeling. Most boat tours and kayak tours include the opportunity to snorkel in crystalline waters. The Green Cave on Sipan Island is a well-known location to do snorkeling.
• Jet Ski. If you are fan of adrenaline pumping activities, think about renting a jet ski to ride fast of Dubrovnik's waters.
• Rafting. You can do rafting in Cetina River, not too far away from Dubrovnik. If you want to try this experience, check the deals that include transportation and rafting on Cetina River.

Travel Tips

Here are a few need-to-know tips for a comfortable and enjoyable time on the water.

• If you don't travel well on the water, take a pill to help keep the motion sickness at bay.
• Wear shoes with rubber soles to make walking onboard more comfortable and to avoid slipping.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for any combo tour that includes a walk through the old town.
• Bring items to provide protection against the sun such as a hat, suntan lotion with a high SPF factor and sunglasses.
• It is also a good idea to bring a light jacket with you in case you find the sea breeze a little chilly.
• Don't forget your camera to capture the excellent views.