Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: City Walls Walking Tour (entrance ticket included)

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Iconic City Walls – A Detailed Review

When cruising into Dubrovnik, few experiences compare to walking along its legendary city walls. This 3-hour shore excursion offers a guided journey around the 12th-century fortifications, giving you a glimpse into a city that’s both beautifully preserved and historically significant. With entrance tickets included, it’s a convenient way to make the most of your limited time ashore, especially if you’re keen on seeing Dubrovnik from above and experiencing its vibrant streets firsthand.

What makes this tour standout is the combination of expert local guides and the opportunity to access one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval sites. We particularly appreciate the insights from guides like Sara and Ana, whose friendly, knowledgeable approach enhances the walk and helps you truly appreciate Dubrovnik’s layers of history. However, a potential consideration is the moderate walking involved, which includes cobblestone streets and some steps—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. This tour is perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone eager to see Dubrovnik’s walls in a manageable, well-organized format.

Key Points

• Includes entrance to the city walls, so no hidden costs or long lines
• Expert guides provide engaging, well-informed commentary
• Great for small groups up to 18, ensuring a personalized experience
• Offers stunning panoramic views of Dubrovnik from above
• Accessible for most travelers with moderate walking and flat terrain
• Excellent value, combining city highlights, history, and breathtaking vistas

Why You’ll Love This Dubrovnik Shore Excursion

This walking tour of Dubrovnik’s legendary walls offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical insight, and practical convenience. As cruisers, we often face tight schedules, so having entrance tickets included saves time and hassle. The experience is designed to maximize your limited shore time while giving you a genuine taste of what makes Dubrovnik so special.

One of the biggest draws is the expert guidance. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Sara and Ana, who strike a balance between sharing fascinating stories and allowing guests to enjoy the sights. Sara, in particular, is praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, helping visitors grasp the significance of sites like Onofrio’s Fountain, Sponza Palace, and the fortresses that guard the city. With their help, even those unfamiliar with Dubrovnik’s history leave feeling more connected to the city.

The highlight for many is the walk along the walls themselves. Expect breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops, the shimmering Adriatic, and the mountainous landscape beyond. Reviewers like Lisa and Judy mention how the views are “incredible” and that walking the walls is a must-do for anyone visiting. This is not just a stroll but an opportunity to see Dubrovnik from multiple angles, capturing those perfect photos that will remind you of your trip long after you return home.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting Point and Start

The tour begins at Elite Travel Walking Tours, Brsalje ul. 1 at 10:30 am. It’s a straightforward location near public transportation and easy to find, especially if you’re arriving on a cruise. The group size is capped at 18 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and easy to navigate, especially in the busy summer months.

First Stop: Pile Gate

Your guide will meet you in front of the restaurant Dubravka, a well-known Dubrovnik spot, setting the tone for a relaxed yet informative experience. This initial meet-and-greet is brief but essential, as it’s the gateway to the Old Town and the start of your exploration.

Walking the Old Town (1.5 hours)

The next phase involves strolling through the narrow streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Expect to see sites like Onofrio’s Fountain—connected to ancient aqueducts, which still supply water—and the Gothic courtyard of the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of the oldest operating pharmacies. Guides like Ana and Sara provide context, explaining how these structures played roles in Dubrovnik’s development and resilience over centuries.

This part of the tour is about soaking in the atmosphere—walking over cobblestones and past lively cafes—while learning intriguing stories of the city’s past and present. Reviewers mention that guides strike a good balance, giving enough history without overwhelming, and even offering lunch suggestions for later.

Main Event: The City Walls (1.5 hours)

The star of the tour is the walk around the city walls—a circular route that provides sweeping views over Dubrovnik and beyond. You’ll pass by formidable fortresses such as Minceta, St. John’s Fortress, and Bokar Fortress, each with their own stories of defense and history.

The experience here is highly visual. Reviewers like Judy and David highlight the breathtaking views from the walls, describing the experience as “amazing” and “a highlight of the trip.” Be prepared for some moderate walking, including steps and uneven surfaces—up to 150 steps per the tour info—so sturdy footwear is recommended. Sara’s attentiveness in hot weather is also praised, with some guests noting her efforts to keep everyone comfortable.

Final Stroll: Stradun and Return

The tour concludes with a 30-minute walk down Stradun, the main pedestrian street. It’s the perfect spot for photos, window shopping, or grabbing a quick snack before heading back to your cruise ship. Guides often share helpful tips for local eateries or hidden gems, making sure you leave with some insider knowledge.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews emphasize small group sizes—often just 10-12 people—making it easier to hear guides and ask questions. Guests particularly appreciate the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Ivana and Jenera, who adapt to different paces and provide personalized recommendations. For example, one guest noted how Ivana went out of her way to help a fellow traveler with height fears during the wall walk, showing the extra care guides provide.

The value of this tour is also clear from reviews praising the comprehensive experience that combines both inside the Old Town and the walls themselves. One guest remarked, “It felt like a private tour,” thanks to the small group and attentive guide. The inclusion of entrance tickets means no surprises or extra costs, which is a huge plus.

However, not all feedback is perfect. A few guests mention slippery steps during rain, so if you’re visiting during wet weather, be cautious. Also, some reviewers shared that guides were sometimes affected by external circumstances, such as illness, but overall, the consistency in quality remained high.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour begins promptly at 10:30 am, so arriving a little early ensures a stress-free start.
• Expect moderate walking—about 1000 meters on cobblestones, with some steps—and plan your footwear accordingly.
• The group size is limited, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.
• The tour does not include food or drinks, but guides often give recommendations for local eateries.
• Be aware of the hot summer sun in Dubrovnik; hats, sunscreen, and water are highly recommended.
• If your ship is delayed or you need to cancel, the Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee offers peace of mind with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In short, this City Walls Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and manageable walking that’s ideal for most travelers. The inclusion of entrance tickets and a knowledgeable guide makes it a convenient, value-packed option, especially given the high praise for guides like Sara and Ana. The panoramic views from the walls truly are unforgettable, and exploring Dubrovnik’s narrow streets with an expert adds layers of context that enrich the experience.

This tour is best suited for those who are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and eager to see Dubrovnik’s iconic defenses from every angle. It’s particularly good for small groups, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a well-organized, authentic taste of this stunning Croatian city.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic, and educational experience that respects their time and budget, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a solid choice that captures the spirit of Dubrovnik—walled in beauty and history—without feeling rushed or superficial.

FAQ

Does this tour include entrance to the city walls?
Yes, the entrance ticket is included in the tour price, so you won’t have to queue or pay extra on the day.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Elite Travel Walking Tours, Brsalje ul. 1, in front of the restaurant Dubravka, a convenient spot near public transportation.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, covering inside the Old Town, walking the walls, and the final stroll along Stradun.

Is the walking difficult?
The tour involves moderate walking—about 1000 meters on cobblestone streets and up to 150 steps—so comfortable footwear and some mobility are recommended.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involves steps, and some children might find the terrain challenging.

What if my ship is delayed?
Thanks to the Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee, if your ship is late or departs early, you can reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This Dubrovnik City Walls Walking Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, historical context, and small-group intimacy. It’s a memorable way to experience one of Europe’s most spectacular fortified cities—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.