Lopesan Costa Bávaro Review (2025): My Honest 11-Night Stay in Punta Cana

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Review (2025): My Honest 11-Night Stay in Punta Cana

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

 

Why the Dominican Republic?

Historically, I’ve always been a city break girl; I love the hustle and bustle of squeezing as much as possible into a few days of sightseeing, eating, and exploring.

 But this year, I knew I needed something entirely different. I was craving a relaxing holiday where I could come back to work rejuvenated and refreshed. 

My sister visited the Dominican Republic last year with a friend and came back absolutely raving about it. So when she mentioned that her friends had dropped out of her trip this year, I jumped at the chance to join.

I’d never done an all-inclusive holiday before, but I fancied a boujee, luxurious trip where everything was in one place.

We spent what felt like a decade researching the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana before narrowing it down to two: Melia Wellness Resort and Lopesan Costa Bávaro. In the end, Lopesan won us over; we loved that it seemed to have the perfect mix of relaxation by day and energy by night, with live entertainment, multiple restaurants, and a great social vibe.

And it didn’t disappoint. The trip turned out to be the perfect cocktail of chill days and fun nights. We spent our mornings by the pool or on the beach, met new friends from around the world, and danced the night away at the on-site nightclub (which we ended up visiting three times!).

 About Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort

Lopesan Costa Bávaro is a large five-star all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, just 20 minutes from the airport, ideal for anyone who doesn’t want a long transfer after an 8-hour flight.

The resort is beautifully designed and split into two main sections: a family-friendly area and an exclusive adults-only section known as “Unique by Lopesan.”

The adults-only “Unique” experience costs around £60–£100 more per night (depending on your room type and season) and includes access to private pools and beach areas, premium drinks, a private lounge and check-in, and an upgraded minibar, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a quieter, more elevated stay. 

We didn't book Unique; we stayed in the normal family area. However, we travelled in late September to early October and barely saw any children, so it still felt calm and relaxing.

During this time of year, it’s hurricane season in the Dominican Republic (typically June to November). We were lucky with the weather and only had one day of heavy rain, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning an autumn trip.

Our Room at Lopesan Costa Bávaro 

We stayed in a Junior Suite with Garden View and Balcony on the third floor, facing the back of the property. The bed was huge, easily a king, and the space felt clean, modern, and comfortable.

Our room was cleaned daily, and we had a balcony, mini fridge, and strong AC (essential in the Caribbean heat!). We did have one small issue after a heavy night of rain, a ceiling leak, but maintenance responded quickly and even sent us a bottle of champagne and fruit to apologise.

 Tea drinker tip: Rooms don’t come with kettles, and while you can request one with a refundable deposit, we opted to order hot water through room service instead. Room service usually takes an hour, and tipping is advised; I suggest a minimum of $5.

Where to Eat at Lopesan Costa Bávaro: Best Restaurants, Buffets & Tips

One thing to note before you dive into the food — you need to make reservations for all of the à la carte restaurants at Lopesan Costa Bávaro. You can only walk into the buffet-style restaurants without a booking.

💡 Tip: Download the Lopesan app once you check in — you can use it to book restaurants and order room service directly from your phone. It makes life so much easier, especially if you’re planning your meals around pool time or excursions.

We managed to try 6 out of the 7 restaurants during our stay (the only one we didn’t visit was the French restaurant, La Boheme).

Here’s a quick rundown of what we thought:

🍣 Inari – Japanese Hibachi & Sushi

This was our absolute favourite. I’d never been to a hibachi-style restaurant before, so the whole experience blew me away — the chefs cook right in front of you with full-on flair and fire. It’s a fun and interactive night, perfect for meeting new people.
We actually made friends with the family sitting next to us and ended up going to the on-site nightclub together afterwards 😂

The food itself was delicious, nothing too wild, but you could customise flavours with sauces for extra spice. We loved it so much, we went back again! I had the Chicken Pad Thai and some California rolls the second time, both of which were excellent.

🍝 Gondola – Italian Restaurant

Gondola was the Italian restaurant, and we had high hopes as it was our first night at the resort. Unfortunately, it ended up being one of the more disappointing meals of the trip.

I ordered the pesto gnocchi, which was perfectly edible but very mid — nothing memorable or standout. Overall, we found the food here to be quite bland, especially compared to some of the other restaurants on site. While the setting was nice, it wasn’t one we felt the need to return to.

🌮 El Charro - Mexican Restaurant

El Charro offers a lively, colourful take on Mexican cuisine, with classics like tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole in a fun, upbeat setting. It was one of the most social restaurants on the resort and had great energy.

I made a questionable choice and ordered the salmon (classic me) instead of going full Mexican, and instantly wished I’d chosen tacos. My sister, however, loved her meal. Dessert was a highlight, a chocolate sphere that melted when hot chocolate sauce was poured over it. A bit sickly, but such a nice touch.

Overall, a great option for a relaxed, vibrant evening with good vibes.

🥩 El Asador – Steakhouse

El Asador is located higher up in the resort, above some of the other restaurants, which means it offers beautiful elevated views across the pool and resort, something we really loved and definitely recommend visiting for sunset or photos!

The ambience was warm and inviting, with a cosy, rustic feel, but despite the great setting and well-presented dishes, we found the food itself to be quite average and not particularly memorable. Perhaps, it was just the steak we ordered, though!

🐟 Mareas – Seafood Restaurant

We started with a prawn starter, which was lush and wonderfully cheesy, but the main course didn’t hit the mark for us. It was chicken on the bone with vegetables and unfortunately had a slightly off smell — not what we expected from a five-star seafood restaurant. Dessert, however, was enjoyable, so overall we found the meal okay, but not outstanding.

Mareas is located upstairs, which makes it another great spot for photos or even just popping up for a sunset drink. The views over the resort and pools make it worth a visit, even if you’re just there for the ambience.

🍗 Caribbean beach BBQ buffet 

Now this… was my favourite part of the day. The Beach BBQ is open for lunch from around 11:30am to 4pm, and it’s the perfect mix of laid-back and delicious.

Think proper Caribbean-style food, grilled chicken, rice, fish, fresh salads, and veggies. The flavours were incredible, and the vibe was unbeatable. You can eat at the beachfront tables or take your plate back to your sun lounger by the pool (which became my little ritual).

I even had a few solo lunches here, just me, my plate of food, a cocktail, and the sea breeze. It was my favourite way to romanticise the quiet moments of the trip.

🍳 Breakfast Buffet

Mornings at Lopesan began with a buffet breakfast that offered a great selection to fuel your day, including eggs cooked to order, fresh fruit, pastries, pancakes, and my personal weakness: copious amounts of hash browns. I loved the relaxed vibe in the breakfast area, with sunlight streaming in and the gentle hum of holiday chatter around me.

For those with dietary requirements, there are clearly labelled sections for gluten-free and vegetarian options, which I really appreciated. I also liked that you could mix and match, grab a fruit platter and some pastries for a light breakfast, or go full-on hearty with eggs, bacon, and fresh bread.

It became a nice little ritual for us: coffee in hand, planning the day ahead, and soaking up the resort energy before heading to the pool or beach.

🍴 Food at Lopesan Costa Bávaro – Overall Thoughts

Overall, the food at Lopesan Costa Bávaro is what you’d expect from a large all-inclusive resort — most restaurants are decent but nothing too daring, so don’t expect bold spices or aromatic flavours. The meals are generally safe and well-presented, catering to a wide variety of tastes.

That said, a few places truly stood out for us:

• The Beach BBQ was hands-down our favourite — proper Caribbean-style food with fresh fish, grilled chicken, rice, and a great selection of vegetables. They swapped dishes out daily, so each lunch felt fresh and exciting, and we genuinely looked forward to it every day.

• Inari, the Japanese hibachi and sushi restaurant, was another highlight. We went back twice, the first time just enjoying the interactive hibachi experience, and the second time I had the chicken pad thai, which was delicious. Both times, the food and vibe were fantastic.

Everything else was fine and enjoyable, but these two spots were the meals we kept thinking about after the holiday!

Money and Currency

We brought about £250 worth of Dominican pesos, which was plenty for tips and small souvenirs for 11 nights. You can also bring US dollars, but we found pesos gave a better rate overall, especially for local shops and market stalls.

For context: $10 is roughly 600 pesos (about £6), though rates vary slightly day to day.

Most places at Lopesan Costa Bávaro and around Punta Cana accept card payments, but it’s always handy to have cash for tipping and taxis. ATMs are available in resort areas, but they often charge high withdrawal fees (around $5–$10 per transaction), so it’s worth bringing cash from home or exchanging at the airport.

Tipping isn’t mandatory but is very appreciated. We usually tipped $1–$2 (or around 100 pesos) for drinks or room service and $5–$10 for exceptional service, like housekeeping or dining staff.

If you plan to book excursions or spa treatments, I would bring more cash!

Excursion: Saona Island with TUI

To break up our resort time, we booked the Saona Island excursion through TUI (£60 each). The tour included a scenic catamaran ride, a stop at a natural lagoon with clear turquoise water, and a few hours on the island itself.

This was one of the highlights of our trip; no signal, just sunshine, music, and swimming in the Caribbean Sea. It reminded me of childhood days in Anguilla and was a perfect contrast to the resort life.

If you’re deciding between the standard or private version, the private trip is pricier (£100) but offers double the island time (around 4 hours) and access to a private section of the beach. If I were to go again, I’d definitely choose the private option. You spend quite a bit of the day travelling, so the extra time on the island would be worth it.

The drive from Lopesan Costa Bávaro to the departure dock took about an hour, with a short stop to change coaches along the way. We were the last resort to be picked up and one of the closest to the dock, which worked perfectly in our favour.

Is Lopesan Costa Bávaro Worth It?

After 11 nights at Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype. If you’re looking for a vibrant, upscale all-inclusive resort with great nightlife, friendly staff, and plenty of options for both relaxation and fun, it’s a great choice.

We loved the balance between luxury and liveliness — lazy beach days, energetic nights, and an overall social and welcoming atmosphere. Aside from a few small hiccups (and the lack of a kettle!), the experience exceeded our expectations.

Would we go back? Absolutely, 100% yes.
Next time, I’d just pack a travel kettle and stay even longer 🌴

Bristol Foodie Guide: 5 Best Places to Eat in 2026

Bristol Foodie Guide: 5 Best Places to Eat in 2026

Monday, September 15, 2025

 

(Photo credit: Yugo)

Bristol is one of the UK’s most exciting cities for food lovers, buzzing with culture, creativity, and some of the best restaurants in the South West. Whether you’re a local searching for a new favourite spot or a visitor discovering the city’s vibrant dining scene, there’s something to tempt every palate. From elegant eateries perfect for a special night out to affordable gems that won’t break the bank, Bristol offers a mix of flavours and experiences to suit every taste and budget.

To help you navigate this culinary landscape, I’ve put together a guide to the 5 best places to eat in Bristol in 2025, featuring a mix of must-try restaurants that truly showcase the city’s incredible foodie scene.

 

The Garden of Easton 🌿 

Tucked away in the heart of Easton, The Garden of Easton is a buzzing jungle-style café that has become a go-to for plant-based food lovers in Bristol. The menu is fully vegan, offering everything from hearty brunch plates to colourful lunches and indulgent cakes. Expect dishes like loaded sandwiches, fresh salads, and seasonal specials, with mains approximately priced between £10–£14 and cakes around £3.50–£5.

The café has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, filled with greenery and a warm community vibe. While it’s more of a daytime spot for coffee, cake, or a casual lunch, they also serve dinners, making it a flexible choice if you want something low-key in the evening. It’s not the cheapest café in Bristol, but the food quality, friendly service, and unique setting make it well worth it.

Bosco Pizzeria 🍕

If you’re craving authentic Italian food in Bristol, Bosco Pizzeria is a must. They offer fantastic lunch deals (available 12–5pm) where you can enjoy two courses for £14 or three courses for £17, brilliant value considering the quality. Their pizzas are some of the best in the city. Two standouts are:
Funghi (£16.50) – topped with chestnut mushrooms, mascarpone, fior di latte mozzarella, thyme, parmesan, and a drizzle of truffle oil. Rich, earthy, and absolutely delicious.

Bosco  (£11.50)– a simple yet perfect combination of fior di latte mozzarella, tomato, grana padano, olive oil, and basil. Sometimes the classics really are the best.

Beyond pizza, you’ll find small plates, fresh pasta dishes, and classic Italian appetisers, all served in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. 

They’re based on White Ladies Road in Clifton, but if you’re up for a day out, you’ll also find a Bosco in Bath and Cheltenham. Don’t leave without trying their refreshing lemon sorbet, it’s the perfect way to end a meal.

Souk Kitchen 🥙

Souk Kitchen is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the best places to eat in Bristol in 2025. Based in Southville, just south of the river, this popular Bristol restaurant brings the vibrant flavours of the Middle East to the city with creative small plates and mezze, perfect for sharing! Expect colourful salads, spiced lamb and chicken dishes, falalfel and an array of dips that showcase bold and aromatic flavours. 

 Prices range from £5–£12 per plate, it’s an affordable mid-range choice, whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner.

To make it even better, Souk Kitchen often runs great-value lunch deals and features on First Table, meaning diners can enjoy up to 50% off and sample a wide variety of dishes without breaking the bank. 

Gambas 🍷 

Nestled in Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf, Gambas is a Spanish tapas bar that perfectly combines flavour-packed food with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. With outdoor seating, heaters, and cozy blankets for cooler months, it’s a top spot year-round. 

The menu features fresh seafood and high-quality small plates designed for sharing, with prices typically between £6 and £12 per dish. Larger plates like paella or grilled fish are around £14–£22, placing Gambas in the mid-range to slightly upscale category. Pair your meal with a glass from their curated wine list, starting at £5, and you’ve got one of the city’s best spots for Spanish cuisine. Gambas strikes the perfect balance between lively energy and relaxed comfort, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Bristol’s foodie scene.

Cappadocia 🏜️ 

Cappadocia is one of the most popular Turkish restaurants in Bristol, bringing rich flavours and a bustling atmosphere to Baldwin Street. First opening in Bath in 2019, the family-run restaurant expanded to Bristol in 2023 and quickly became a city favourite. With colourful décor and a welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect spot for everything from date nights to group dinners.

Their bottomless brunch is a big draw: £39 per person for a starter, main, and unlimited beer, wine, or prosecco, or £49 to include cocktails and mocktails. Each sitting lasts two hours, making it ideal for a fun weekend outing. They also offer set menus for larger bookings, making it a great choice for celebrations.

For authentic Turkish food in Bristol with a stylish twist, Cappadocia is a must-visit, and if you’re in Bath, their other restaurant is just as popular.

Top tips for Dining Out in Bristol 

Bristol’s restaurant scene is thriving, so a few insider tips can help you make the most of your foodie adventures. It’s a good idea to book ahead for popular spots, as restaurants like Bosco, Cappadocia, and Gambas can get busy, especially on weekends and evenings. Many places also offer lunch specials or First Table discounts, which are perfect for sampling multiple dishes at a lower cost. 

Planning for the season can make a big difference. Outdoor seating is a highlight at Gambas in the warmer months, while heaters and blankets keep you cosy in winter. If you’re dining out with friends or celebrating a big occasion, consider group-friendly options like Cappadocia’s bottomless brunch or mezze sharing at Souk Kitchen. 

Finally, don’t just stick to the city center: Bristol has amazing food tucked away in Easton, Southville, Bedminster, Clifton, and Wapping Wharf, so wander a little further to discover those hidden gems.

Honourable mentions

St Nick’s Market – St Nick’s is an eclectic hub of street food and independent vendors in the heart of Bristol, perfect for casual, budget-friendly dining. St Nick’s offers a variety of cuisines, from Eat a Pitta’s fresh falafel wraps (£5–£7) to Asian-inspired bowls (£6–£9) and seasonal small plates from other stalls. Perfect for a relaxed lunch with colleagues or a bite on the go.

Pasture – Pasture offers seasonal, locally sourced dishes in Redcliffe, making it a more upmarket dining experience for special occasions or a refined night out.

Saffron – Saffron brings rich Mediterranean cuisine to Clifton Village, offering bold, flavour-packed dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Saffron’s menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vibrant vegetarian options, with mains generally priced between £15 and £25, making it a mid-range to slightly upscale dining option. It's an ideal spot to impress a friend visiting Bristol for the first time!

Use this Bristol Food Guide 2025 to plan your next dining experience and discover new cuisines across the city. From brunch to dinner, these recommendations highlight some of the best places to eat in Bristol right now. So, grab a fork and start eating your way through the city. 

For even more affordable options, don't miss my earlier guide, Eating out in Bristol on a budget, packed with tips for wallet-friendly options. 

4 Days in Croatia: The Perfect Short Holiday Itinerary

4 Days in Croatia: The Perfect Short Holiday Itinerary

Saturday, August 30, 2025

 

Why Croatia is the Perfect Destination for a Short Holiday

Croatia has quickly become a top summer destination for travellers from Europe, Australia, and the US, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning Adriatic coastline, charming historic towns, and warm Mediterranean climate, it’s the perfect spot for a short getaway. Even with just a few days, you can experience a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure without feeling rushed.

 The best time to visit is between May - September, and we chose July (arguably, one of the busiest months!) to celebrate my mum's 60th! We had a glorious time, and in this guide to 4 days in Croatia, I share our favourite activities, hidden gems and local restaurants packed full of delicious food to help you make the most of a short holiday.

How to Get to Croatia (Flights & Arrival Tips)

We flew into Dubrovnik Airport from Bristol with EasyJet in July, the flight was just under 3 hours and cost less than £100 per person (without luggage). Dubrovnik is well-connected, with direct flights from most major UK and European cities, especially in the summer months.

 Travel tip: Dubrovnik Airport is about 30 minutes from the Old Town, so depending on where you’re staying, you can either take a taxi, book an airport shuttle, or arrange a private transfer in advance. If you’re planning to explore more of Croatia (like Cavtat, Mlini, or the surrounding countryside), consider hiring a car directly at the airport for convenience.

Where to Stay in Croatia  

For our family holiday, we decided to book an Airbnb near Dubrovnik instead of a hotel, and it turned out to be the best choice. We stayed in Čeločipi, a quiet area just outside Dubrovnik and Cavtat, which made it the ideal base for exploring while still having a relaxed atmosphere. Čeločipi is best if you have a rental car, as it makes getting around much easier.

Our host, Tereza, went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. She decorated the apartment beautifully for my mum’s 60th birthday and even surprised us with a cake and a bottle of wine, which was such a thoughtful touch! During our stay, she also made us cocktails and was always on hand if we needed anything. It really felt like a home away from home, and I’d 100% book with her again if I return to Croatia.

Ubers do operate in the area, though, and there are supermarkets nearby, so it’s also a great option if you want to self-cater and make it a more budget-friendly trip. The villa has a few other apartments, but it still felt private and peaceful.

Staying here gave us the best of both worlds; plenty of time to sunbathe and relax by the pool, with the freedom to head out and explore Dubrovnik, Cavtat, and Mlini whenever we wanted.

 Getting Around Dubrovnik & Cavtat

On arrival, we picked up a pre-booked hire car from the airport. Driving in Croatia has its challenges; the roads are often steep, narrow, and winding, plus you’re on the opposite side of the road, which takes some adjusting to. We first hired a manual car but quickly swapped it for an automatic, which made things far easier. Car hire isn’t cheap (ours was around £300 for 5 nights), but it gave us the freedom to explore and was handy for supermarket runs.

That said, you don’t need a car to enjoy Dubrovnik. Ubers are reliable and affordable, for example, our 15-minute journey from our Airbnb to Dubrovnik’s Old Town was around €10, and a ride to Cavtat (20 minutes away) cost roughly the same. The only downside is that Uber can be unreliable in some areas, like Lapad, where we had several cancellations late at night.

If you don’t want to drive, you can also rely on airport shuttles, local buses, and taxis, though they’re less flexible than having your own car.

👉 Travel tip: If you’re planning to rent a car, book early (especially in summer), check if your accommodation offers parking, and consider an automatic if you’re not confident with steep hill starts.

Things to do in Croatia in 4 Days

If you’re planning a short break to Croatia, you’ll be surprised at how much you can see and do in just four days. From exploring the historic streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town to relaxing by the sea in Cavtat or Mlini, there’s something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re into culture, food, or simply soaking up the sunshine, Croatia offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

To help you make the most of your trip, here are some of the best things to do in Croatia in 4 days, ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking to balance sightseeing with downtime.

Explore Dubrovnik Old Town 

Dubrovnik Old Town is absolutely stunning, with its medieval walls, winding streets, and breathtaking sea views. However, if you’re visiting in July or August, be prepared for large crowds. To make the most of your visit, I recommend going early in the morning or around sunset, when the streets are quieter and the views are extra magical (we visited at sunset and it was incredible!).

Getting around Dubrovnik can be tricky, especially when it comes to parking, which is limited and expensive. Instead, I suggest using Uber; they’re easy, convenient, and far less stressful.

For an unforgettable activity in Dubrovnik, don’t miss the chance to walk the famous city walls or join a guided tour. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, there are even dedicated tours that take you to filming locations used in King’s Landing!

When it comes to food, dining in Dubrovnik Old Town is on the pricey side. To give you an idea, we paid €5.50 for a Coke, so I wouldn’t recommend splurging on dinner here. Instead, consider stopping for breakfast, lunch, or a quick pastry from a local bakery, which is far more affordable and still lets you soak up the Old Town atmosphere.

Boat tour around Dubrovnik

A sunset boat tour in Dubrovnik is hands down one of the most memorable activities you can do. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the Old Town and enjoy a more peaceful side of the city. Out on the Adriatic Sea, the atmosphere was immaculate. There's something so special about being on the water, watching the sun dip below the horizon, and just taking a moment for yourself. It’s honestly an experience everyone should try at least once.

Our tour included stunning views of the Elaphiti Islands, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. We also got to learn more about Croatian history and culture from our local boat guide, which made the trip even more meaningful.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a relaxing break from sightseeing, or just a new perspective of the city, a Dubrovnik sunset cruise is the perfect addition to your itinerary.

Day trip to Cavtat 

A trip to the south of Croatia isn’t complete without visiting Cavtat. If you want to beat the crowds and escape the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik while still enjoying delicious eateries, this charming harbour town is the perfect spot. Cavtat also serves as a great starting point for tours and excursions along the coast.

We loved visiting in the mornings when it was still quiet and the town was slowly waking up. We enjoyed coffee, breakfast, and picked up a few souvenirs, parking is easier here than in Dubrovnik, though it can be pricey. Seeing Cavtat come alive in the evening was magical; we had a late dinner around 7:30–8pm while watching the sun set over the Adriatic Sea.

The town is easily walkable, making it a convenient base if you’re exploring Croatia on a short holiday, such as my 4-day Croatia itinerary. Its relaxed pace, scenic harbour, and local charm make Cavtat an unforgettable stop on any southern Croatian adventure.

Visit the Val di Breno beach club 

Fancy a relaxing afternoon after exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town? Val di Breno is the perfect spot, it may be a TikTok favourite, but it’s easy to see why! You can order sushi straight to your sun lounger and spend the day soaking up the sun, all while enjoying great music and a chilled atmosphere. Sun loungers cost €50 per person, which can be redeemed against your food bill, so it's basically free (girl maths!). 

Drinks and small plates are reasonably priced, with cocktails around €8-10 and sushi dishes starting at €15, making it ideal for a leisurely lunch or afternoon escape. You can call ahead to reserve or simply turn up and enjoy!

Day trips from Croatia: Montenegro & Bosnia 

If you have a few extra days, or want to explore beyond Croatia, both Montenegro and Bosnia make excellent day-trip options from Dubrovnik or Cavtat.

From Dubrovnik, Montenegro’s coast is just under 2 hours away by car, while Cavtat is slightly closer at around 1 hour 45 minutes. Bosnia, on the other hand, is about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Dubrovnik and a bit shorter from Cavtat, making it feasible for a long day trip.

Montenegro is visually similar to Croatia, with stunning Adriatic coastlines, charming old towns, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Popular stops include Kotor, Budva, and Sveti Stefan, where you can enjoy scenic walks, beaches, and historic architecture.

Bosnia & Herzegovina offers a very different experience, with a rich cultural blend influenced by Ottoman and Arabic heritage. Cities like Mostar feature iconic bridges, cobblestone streets, and unique local cuisine. Bosnia is also very budget-friendly, making it a great option if you want to stretch your travel budget while experiencing a different side of the Balkans.

If we had a few extra days, we would have loved to explore either of these countries, but sadly our 4-day Croatian itinerary didn’t leave enough time. Still, it’s a great idea for anyone planning a longer trip!

Evening drinks in Mlini

 If you’re looking for a quieter seaside town near Dubrovnik, Mlini is the perfect choice. With its charming harbour, pebbled beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal if you want a slower pace compared to the busy streets of Dubrovnik. We visited one evening and instantly wished we had spent more time here!

We enjoyed drinks overlooking the Adriatic Sea, which was the perfect way to wind down and soak up the coastal views, a truly memorable end to our trip. Mlini’s harbour and beach are also great spots for sunbathing, swimming, or even diving, and the town feels less touristy, with more locals around. Food and drinks here are also noticeably cheaper than in Dubrovnik, making it a great budget-friendly escape.

Getting there: Parking in Mlini can be a little tricky, so we chose to take an Uber, which was quick and affordable. However, if you’re planning to drive, there’s parking opposite the Flamingo Restaurant, which is on the main road just outside the harbour area.

We had drinks at Oleander Bistro & Restaurant, a charming seaside spot in Mlini with breathtaking views. It was the perfect place to end our trip, peaceful, relaxed, and set right by the water. There’s nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while listening to the waves and watching the sun dip over the Adriatic. If I return to Croatia, this is definitely somewhere I’d go back to.

Where to Eat & Drink in Croatia

Croatia is packed with delicious eateries, so you definitely won’t go home hungry! One thing to note is that locals tend to eat later in the evening, often around 8-10pm, which is something to keep in mind when planning your meals.

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik, I highly recommend pre-booking ahead, especially in the tourist hotspots. During our July trip, we explored dining options in Lapad (Dubrovnik), Mlini, and Cavtat, but decided to skip the main Old Town area in Dubrovnik itself, as it was extremely busy in July. 

There’s a lot you can pack into a 4-day Croatian itinerary, from sampling fresh seafood and local pastries to enjoying seaside restaurants and cosy cafes. Whether you’re chasing authentic local flavours or relaxing with a cocktail by the water, Croatia offers a variety of dining experiences for every type of traveller.

Pull Over in Lapad

After a local taxi driver recommended Lapad, a charming coastal seaside area just outside the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik, we decided to visit. We caught a cab and enjoyed a relaxing walk along the promenade, taking in the views and seaside atmosphere.

Before heading to Pull Over Restaurant, we stopped for a drink at Promendada Caffe and Cocktail Bar, a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

We tried the shrimp risotto, which was tasty, though I wouldn’t recommend the risotto overall. The restaurant is a nice spot for seafood, but it felt more casual and less refined compared to some of the other places we visited.

Lapad itself is a lovely area to explore if you want a quieter coastal vibe while still being just a short ride from Dubrovnik.

La Boheme in Cavtat

We celebrated my mum’s birthday at La Boheme and booked ahead to secure a table. The restaurant has a fantastic vibe, and they even treated us to a free glass of Prosecco in honour of my mum’s special day.

The food was delicious and full of flavour, with plenty of seafood, meat, and classic English options to choose from. If you’re looking for a truly local experience, it’s worth doing some research. Cavtat has quieter, more traditional spots that feel intimate and authentic.

A quick tip about dining in Croatia: locals tend to eat later in the evening, so we booked a table from 7- 9pm. On a few nights, we ended up eating closer to 10:30pm, which wasn’t ideal for digestion, so plan accordingly if you prefer earlier dinners.

La Boheme is a great choice for a celebration or special occasion in Cavtat, offering both a lively atmosphere and a range of tasty dishes.

Flamingo in Mlini

A little further out from Mlini, closer to Cavtat, is Flamingo, a charming spot that’s popular with the locals. It’s not a fancy, high-end restaurant, but that’s part of its appeal, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect if you want an authentic Croatian dining experience without breaking the bank. The menu is simple but tasty, featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional dishes that give you a real taste of the region. Prices are very reasonable, making it ideal for a casual lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing. 

We actually thought it was in Mlini harbour, so we decided to walk there under the blazing sun, an uphill trek but a great way to get our steps in! Definitely a contrast to the ease of driving or catching an Uber to most other spots, but well worth it for the local experience.

La Norma in Mlini

One restaurant we passed by but didn’t manage to book was La Norma in Mlini Harbour. From what we could see, the terrace offered breathtaking sea views, making it the perfect spot for a memorable meal. The setting is charming, with the harbour creating a calm and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. 

If you plan to visit, I'd highly recommend booking ahead and requesting a table overlooking the bay, as it's likely to get busy, especially during the summer months. While it's a bit more expensive than other local eateries, it would make a fantastic choice for a special last-night dinner during your 4 days in Croatia.

This trip was a very chilled holiday, striking the perfect balance  between relaxing by the pool and exploring Mlini, Cavtat, and Dubrovnik. Croatia really impressed me with how much you can see and do in just a few days, without ever feeling rushed.

I’ll definitely be back to discover more of this beautiful country. Stay tuned to see where I visit next!

Have you been to Croatia? I’d love to hear your thoughts and your favourite spots in the comments below.

If you’re already planning your next getaway and want some inspiration, check out my latest post: Best Places to visit in Europe in Summer 2025.