The Old Town looks different after dark, and the best way to see it is from a kayak. The Night Lights tour is a two-hour guided paddle that starts as the sun sets and the walls, the Citadel and the church towers begin to glow. The route stays close to the shore, skirting the Old Town peninsula and the beach, and the lit stone reflected in the calm water makes superb photographs. It is gentle, with a guide leading and tandem kayaks available, so you do not need paddling experience. The atmosphere is quiet, with lapping water and the sounds of the town carrying faintly across the bay, and it makes a romantic or memorable evening after a day of sightseeing. Operators often supply headlamps or lights on the kayaks. The tour runs in the warmer months and is subject to weather.
How it works
You meet at the kayak base in the early evening, listen to a safety briefing and receive life jackets and paddles. The group paddles in a line behind the guide, who sets a gentle pace. You stay close to shore in sheltered water, and the guide watches the weather and the traffic of other boats. Participants are encouraged to bring a light layer, since the evening air can feel cool on the water.
What you will see
The Old Town walls lit up, the Citadel at the tip of the peninsula, Sveti Nikola island as a dark outline, and the lights of the promenade curving along the bay. On clear nights the stars come out above the mountains, and the town sounds soften into the background.
Good to know
The tour is easy but physical, with around two hours of paddling at an easy pace. Children usually need to be of minimum age and travel in a tandem kayak with an adult. Bring sun cream for the early part, a dry bag for your phone, and wear quick-drying clothing. Tours are often cancelled in strong wind, so keep your plans flexible. Evening sessions are most popular in July and August, so reserve ahead.
How to enjoy it
Have dinner after, not before, and take a camera that handles low light. Pair the paddle with a daytime visit to the Old Town so that you recognise the places you see glowing from the water.
Photography and comfort
Low-light photography from a moving kayak is difficult, so use a phone in night mode, rest your elbows against your body and take several frames. A waterproof pouch is a good investment. Because the evening cools quickly after sunset, even in summer, a light long-sleeve layer helps. Avoid heavy meals before the paddle, and bring a small bottle of water. If you have any doubt about balance, ask for a tandem kayak, which is more stable.
After the tour, the promenade and Old Town squares are lit and lively, making it easy to finish with a late dinner or a gelato. Moonlit nights are especially beautiful, and some operators schedule tours around the lunar calendar, so ask which evenings are best. Overcast nights are also fine, since the walls provide their own light. Remove reflective jewellery and tie back long hair.
What to expect
The experience
A guided evening paddle past the lit Old Town in a small group.
Best time
Evening, around sunset.
How long
Two hours.
Tips
Bring a light layer and keep your phone in a dry bag.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A different view of the lit Old Town.
- Families
- Check the minimum age and use a tandem kayak.
- Couples
- A romantic evening on calm water.
- Pair with
- Dinner in the Old Town afterwards.
- Time needed
- Two hours.
Good questions
Do I need experience?+
No. A guide leads the group and gives a briefing.
Is it safe in the dark?+
The route stays near the shore with a guide, life jackets and lights.
What should I wear?+
Quick-drying clothes and a light layer for the evening breeze.
Can children join?+
Often, with a minimum age and in a tandem kayak, so check when you book.
Does it run in winter?+
It runs mainly in the warmer months and depends on weather.
