Mlini: Perfect for Families Looking to Escape the Crowds
To be honest, Mlini wasn’t even on our radar when we first started planning a few days to explore Dubrovnik.
But with peak season in full swing and accommodation prices in and around Dubrovnik sky-high, we realised we needed to widen our search.
Our priorities were clear: we wanted somewhere with easy access to Dubrovnik, a coastal spot where the kids could swim, and a location that wasn’t too remote or hard to reach.
That’s when I stumbled across Mlini.
It checked every box.
Frequent buses and ferries connected the quaint seaside village to Dubrovnik, so getting around would be a breeze.
Plus, the accommodation we found was just 50 meters from the beach, perfect for our family.
Logistically, it made sense too. We were traveling from Budva in Montenegro, and Mlini was conveniently located on the bus route, only about 9 miles past Dubrovnik Airport.
Since we were also flying out of Dubrovnik Airport to Istanbul, it felt like everything aligned perfectly.
So, we booked it. And honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip.
Mlini had everything we needed, stunning beaches that we all loved, we all had the best time swimming.
Mlini coastline
Walking through Park Striježice which connected our accommodation to the beaches and promenade.
I think the best park about Mlini was the lack of crowds, the quiet and relaxed atmosphere and the gentle pace of live.
We only had a couple of days here but we wish we had more even just a couple of day more.
Mlini truly had everything we needed. The beaches were stunning, and we all loved every moment spent swimming on Srebreno and Mlini Beach.
One of the unexpected highlights was walking through Park Striježice, a charming green space that connected our accommodation to the beaches and the picturesque promenade.
What really stood out for us, though, was the peaceful atmosphere of Mlini. The lack of crowds, the quiet surroundings, and the gentle pace of life made it feel like a hidden gem.
It was the kind of place where you could truly unwind and relax.
We only had a couple of days to enjoy Mlini, but we quickly realised it wasn’t enough.
Looking back, we wish we had stayed longer, just a couple more days would have been perfect to fully embrace everything this lovely seaside village had to offer.
It’s definitely a spot we’ll dream about returning to.
Boys splashing about at Srebreno Beach. The beach is pebbly along the shore line but sandy once you get in
Things to do in Mlini
Relax and Unwind at the Beach
Mlini’s beaches offer pristine shorelines and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect setting for relaxation.
You can soak up the Croatian sun, swim in the turquoise sea, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Srebreno Beach
Srebreno Beach is a hidden gem near Mlini. Its pebble shore stretches along calm, shallow waters, ideal for families and casual swimmers.
You’ll find sun loungers and umbrellas available for hire, allowing you to settle in for a day of leisure.
The beach is bordered by pine trees, offering natural shade on hot summer days. A seaside promenade connects Srebreno to neighbouring areas, perfect for a sunset stroll.
Water sports enthusiasts can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the coastline.
Boys swimming in the calm kid friendly water of Mlini.
Mlini Beach
Mlini Beach boasts a picturesque setting with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine shoreline.
You’ll have ample space for sunbathing and swimming along its moderate length.
The beach maintains a serene atmosphere despite its popularity, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
Bring a towel and swim shoes for comfort on the pebbles.
Beach bars nearby offer refreshments and light snacks. For a change of scenery, you can take a short boat trip to explore nearby islands visible from the shore.
The beach is easily accessible from Dubrovnik, making it a convenient day trip destination.
After a morning of sightseeing, you can relax here with a book, soaking up the sun and enjoying panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Mlini Beach
Stroll Around Mlini Town
Mlini’s charming town centre invites you to explore its quaint streets and seaside promenade. As you wander, you’ll discover the area’s rich history.
As you stroll through the village, you’ll encounter ancient water mills that gave Mlini its name, alongside picturesque seafront promenades.
The area is renowned for its crystal-clear springs, which have shaped the local landscape and culture for centuries.
Begin your walk at the old town centre, where traditional stone buildings line narrow lanes. Take in the local architecture and atmosphere as you meander through the streets.
Make your way to the seaside promenade, a highlight of any visit to Mlini. This walkway offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands.
You can easily spend an hour or two enjoying the coastal scenery.
Don’t miss the sweet little harbour, where colourful fishing boats bob in the crystal-clear waters.
It’s a perfect spot for a photo opportunity or a moment of quiet reflection.
As you walk, you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants along the way. Stop for a cool drink or a bite to eat whilst taking in the beautiful surroundings.
For those seeking a longer walk, continue along the promenade in both directions. You’ll encounter lovely beaches, secluded coves, and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during summer months.
The promenade is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Walking along the promenade of Srebreno Beach
Places to Eat and Drink
We had some great recommendations from our Airbnb owners however, as plant based eaters there was nothing we could eat.
As we always book Airbnb’s with kitchens and there was a supermarket 250m up the road we were all good.
But for those of you that like to dine out, we have you covered thanks again to our long chat about restaurants and cafes in Mlini.
They recommended
- Restaurant Konoba MARINERO
- Restaurant Puntižela
- Caffe Bar Gusar
- Bistro Paradiso
Mlini offers a variety of dining options to satisfy your culinary cravings.
You’ll find a mix of local and international cuisine, with many restaurants boasting stunning sea views.
For seafood lovers, coastal eateries serve fresh catches of the day.
Try grilled fish or shellfish dishes paired with local wines for an authentic Dalmatian experience.
Traditional Croatian restaurants offer hearty meals featuring meat dishes, stews, and pasta.
Don’t miss the chance to taste local specialities like peka or black risotto.
Many restaurants in Mlini provide outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal al fresco.
Take in the Mediterranean atmosphere as you dine under the stars or by the beach.
For a quick bite or casual meal, you’ll find cafes and pizzerias dotted around the town. These are perfect for a light lunch or relaxed dinner.
View from Mlini marina towrds Srebreno Beach
Supermarkets
Mlini offers several convenient options for grocery shopping during your stay. You’ll find a mix of large supermarkets and smaller shops to cater to your needs.
The Sub City Mall houses a Konzum, Croatia’s largest supermarket chain.
Here you can stock up on fresh produce, local specialities, and everyday essentials.
For a quick shop, look out for the small kiosks along the main road.
These often have flexible opening hours, which are typically posted on their doors.
In nearby Srebreno, you’ll discover a very large Konzum supermarket within the shopping centre.
This is easily accessible if you’re staying in Mlini.
Other supermarket option in the area is Studenac Market, this one was the closest to us.
These stores offer a range of products to suit various budgets and preferences.
Remember to bring your own shopping bags, as many Croatian supermarkets charge for plastic carriers.
Srebreno Beach
Accommodation
We stayed in an Airbnb as we enjoy cooking plus it helps us keep within our budget.
We totally recommend some place as it’s convenient to the beach, supermarket, and transport routes. Plus the owners were lovely and very helpful.
Other Accommodation Options
Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel
Guest House Villa Nina with Sea Views
Mlini marina
Local Transport Connections
Mlini offers convenient transportation options for getting around the area and to nearby destinations.
Buses and ferries provide regular service to connect Mlini with Dubrovnik and other coastal towns.
Buses
You can easily travel between Mlini and Dubrovnik by bus.
Buses run frequently, with service every 30 minutes throughout the day.
The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
To catch the bus, head to the main road through Mlini where you’ll find clearly marked bus stops.
During peak summer months, buses can get crowded.
Consider travelling outside rush hours if possible for a more comfortable ride.
Ferries
Taking a ferry is a scenic way to travel between Mlini and nearby coastal destinations.
Regular boat services connect Mlini with Dubrovnik’s Old Town port, Cavtat, Plat, and Srebreno.
The ferry route offers stunning views of the coastline. You can avoid road traffic and enjoy a relaxing journey across the water.
One-way and return tickets are available for purchase.
Ferries typically run more frequently during the busy summer tourist season. Check current timetables, as schedules may change seasonally.
Sawyer and Lukas enjoying the ferry ride from Mlini to Dubrovnik
The boat dock in Mlini is centrally located and easy to access on foot from most accommodations.
As our accommodation was on the edge of Mlini town it was easier for us to walk the end of Srebreno Wharf and catch the ferry from there.
Below are links to the ferries companies so you can check their timetables
Final Thoughts
We found Mlini to be the perfect base for exploring the stunning Dubrovnik Riviera, with its ideal location situated halfway between Dubrovnik city center and the airport.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city or a more budget-friendly alternative to staying in Dubrovnik itself, Mlini ticks all the right boxes.
Staying in Mlini offers the best of both worlds—it can be as active or as leisurely as you want it to be.
The village is home to a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming, cozy apartments, ensuring comfort for every type of traveler.
Connie and I relaxing on the ferry ride
What truly impressed us was the excellent connectivity—both by bus and boat, making it incredibly easy to explore the region’s incredible sights.
We particularly enjoyed the ferry ride into Dubrovnik, where the stunning views and unique scenery made the journey just as memorable as the destination.
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Meet the family
We are a family of 4 living in New Zealand. I’m a teacher (great profession for traveling) and my wife Connie works in project management. We are also proud parents of two travel-loving boys.
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Hi, I've been fortunate enough to have travelled for over 25 years. My parents gave me the travel bug when I was 10 years old by taking my sister and I to the USA and Mexico for two months. I've travelled by myself, with mates, with my wife and now as a family of four. My goal is to inspire our families to get out and see the world.
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