Trsteno Arboretum Tickets & Tours & Informataion January 2025

Trsteno Arboretum

Trsteno Arboretum, located in the small village of Trsteno, about 20 kilometers northwest of Dubrovnik, is the oldest arboretum in Croatia and one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Founded in the late 15th century by the noble Gučetić-Gozze family, the arboretum was initially created to showcase exotic plants and trees collected by sailors from around the world. Covering an area of over 25 hectares, it features a diverse collection of plant species, including ancient olive trees, towering plane trees, and colorful Mediterranean flora. The arboretum is also famous for its 17th-century baroque fountain with a Neptune and nymphs statue, as well as spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea.

The Basics

Trsteno Arboretum is divided into two main parts:

The Renaissance garden near the Gučetić-Gozze family mansion, with manicured flower beds, fountains, and sculptures.

The natural arboretum, a vast park with walking paths through forests of Mediterranean and exotic plants.
Visitors can enjoy shaded walks, the scent of pine and cypress trees, and peaceful picnic spots overlooking the sea.

Things to Know Before You Go

Entrance Fee: There is a small fee to enter the arboretum, which helps with its maintenance.

Walking Trails: The arboretum features several easy-to-moderate walking trails. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Game of Thrones Filming Location: Trsteno Arboretum was used as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones, serving as the gardens of King’s Landing, making it a must-visit for fans.

Bring water and sunscreen, especially if visiting in the summer, as some paths are exposed to direct sunlight.

How to Get There

Trsteno Arboretum is about a 25-minute drive from Dubrovnik. If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus from Dubrovnik’s main bus station to Trsteno. The bus ride takes about 30-40 minutes, and from the bus stop in Trsteno village, it’s a short walk to the entrance of the arboretum. Guided tours from Dubrovnik are also available, often combining a visit to Trsteno with other nearby attractions.

When to Get There

The arboretum is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom. Summer is also a great time, though it can get hot during midday, so visiting in the morning or late afternoon is recommended. In winter, while there are fewer flowers, the arboretum offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere with mild weather.

Day Trips from Dubrovnik

After exploring Trsteno Arboretum, consider visiting the nearby Elaphite Islands, which can be reached by boat from the coastal village of Brsečine. Alternatively, take a short drive to Ston, where you can walk along the famous Ston Walls and sample fresh oysters from Mali Ston Bay. For those interested in wine, the Pelješac Peninsula is just a short distance away and offers excellent wine-tasting opportunities. If you prefer to stay closer to the coast, enjoy a swim at one of the nearby secluded beaches or relax at a local seaside café in Trsteno.