Private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Historic Walls and Old Town with a Private Guide

This private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour offers an intimate look at one of Croatia’s most iconic destinations. Designed for those who love personalized experiences, the tour lasts around 3.5 hours and provides the chance to walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town with undivided attention from your guide. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a flexible, immersive sightseeing experience without the crowds or rushed schedules.

What stands out most? The fact that it’s a private tour means you get to set the pace and stop for questions whenever something catches your interest. Plus, the opportunity to see Game of Thrones filming locations and enjoy stunning views from the city walls makes this experience especially appealing for fans of the series and history buffs alike. The only real consideration? The tour involves some walking, including a few steep sections, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

If you’re keen to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace, soaking in its history and scenery with expert insights, this tour hits quite a few sweet spots. It’s especially ideal for small groups, couples, or families wanting a curated experience rather than a large, noisy bus tour. Now, let’s dig into what makes this tour a standout and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Your own guide ensures tailored insights and flexibility.
• Stunning Views and Historic Sites: Walk along 1940 meters of well-preserved city walls and visit key landmarks.
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Perfect for fans wanting behind-the-scenes stories.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect some steep sections and stairs, suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
• Flexible Start Times: Choose morning or afternoon to fit your schedule.
• Clear Value for Money: At $77.93, you get expert guidance, personalized attention, and access to top sights.

A Deep Dive into the Dubrovnik Private Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins conveniently at Brsalje ul. 5, right in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This central location means you’re immediately immersed in the city’s charming atmosphere, and it’s easy to find your guide, who will be holding a sign with your name. Meeting here sets the tone for a relaxed, personalized adventure.

Throughout the tour, the small group size and private guide make for a very intimate experience. Unlike larger group excursions, you can ask as many questions as you like and steer the conversation toward what interests you most, whether it’s history, filming locations, or local legends.

Visiting Lovrjenac Fortress

The first stop? The Lovrjenac Fortress, perched atop a 30-meter-high rock just outside the Old Town walls. This site is free to visit and offers some of the best views of Dubrovnik’s walls and the sea. Reviewers noted its grandeur, describing it as “one of the most magnificent sights” and appreciating the photo opportunities from this vantage point.

This spot isn’t just for photos; it’s steeped in history and legend, often called “The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik.” Its commanding position makes it a striking introduction to Dubrovnik’s defensive architecture, and many guides share interesting stories about its strategic importance.

Walking along the City Walls

The main event is the walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, a 1940-meter-long fortification system that encircles the Old Town. The walls are considered some of the best-preserved in the world, and walking them is a must-do for visitors. The tour allows you to explore at your own pace, with your guide providing insights into the history and architecture.

Expect to spend around 2 hours here. The walls include six fortresses, such as Lovrijenac, Revelin, Mineta, Bokar, St. John, and St. Lucas, each with its unique story. Reviewers frequently mention how spectacular the views are—you’ll see the terracotta rooftops, the azure sea, and distant mountains, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

One reviewer emphasized the importance of starting early to avoid crowds, noting that “it was not crowded” when they went first thing in the morning, which significantly enhanced their experience. It’s worth considering the time of day you choose, especially if you want to avoid the heat or large tour groups.

Exploring Stradun and Luza Square

Walking down Stradun (Placa)—the main street of Dubrovnik—is a highlight. It’s the hub of activity, lined with baroque buildings, shops, and cafes. Your guide will share stories only locals know, adding depth to the stroll.

From here, you’ll head to Luza Square, home to the Orlando’s Column and the Sponza Palace. This square is often considered the heart of Dubrovnik’s social life, and reviewers love how their guides make its stories come alive. It’s a lively, picturesque spot where locals and visitors mingle, and standing here, you get a real sense of the city’s vibrant history.

The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

Next, the tour takes you to the cathedral, an impressive baroque structure connected to a compelling legend involving King Richard the Lionheart. The guide will share this story, adding a layer of mythical intrigue to your visit. The cathedral’s interior is often praised for its beauty, and many travelers find it worth a quick stop.

St. Ignatius Church and the Jesuit Stairs

Your final stop is the Church of St. Ignatius, a fine example of Baroque architecture. En route, you’ll pass the Jesuit Stairs, famous as the filming location for the “Walk of Shame” scene from Game of Thrones. Fans of the series especially enjoy this, and reviewers mention that spotting these locations makes the tour even more memorable.

The walk concludes at Boskovic Square, right in front of the St. Ignatius Church, making it easy to continue exploring or grab a meal nearby.

What We Loved About This Tour

There are several aspects that truly stand out. First, the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Boris, Mateo, and Anja. Multiple reviews highlight how guides share stories beyond typical guidebooks—covering politics, religion, local legends, and even behind-the-scenes Game of Thrones details.

Second, the stunning vistas from the walls—many reviewers call the views “incredible” and worth every step. The walls offer a unique perspective of Dubrovnik’s layout and its surrounding sea, which you won’t get from any photo or brochure.

Third, the flexibility of this private tour means you can customize the experience. Want to linger at a certain spot or skip parts you’ve seen before? Your guide can accommodate this. Several reviewers appreciated how the tour was paced just right, especially in the hot weather.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour offers a lot, there are a few points to keep in mind. The walking involves some steep sections and stairs, which might be challenging for those with limited mobility or fitness issues. One reviewer noted, “you need to be relatively fit,” especially for the sections with about 50-60 steps each.

The price of $77.93 per person provides good value, especially considering the private nature and the knowledge of guides. However, the entrance fee to the Walls (€40 per person) isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to access the walls independently or explore further.

Timing is flexible—morning or afternoon start times help beat crowds and heat, particularly in summer. Reviewers who went early found the experience more enjoyable, with fewer people and better lighting for photos.

The tour is designed for moderate physical activity, so it’s a good fit for most travelers who can handle walking and some stairs. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with special needs.

The Value of a Private Guided Experience

For around $78, you get a personal guide, local insights, and the ability to tailor your visit. Compared to group tours or self-guided wandering, this offers a more enriching and relaxed experience. Many reviewers mention how their guides shared stories and tips that made their visit more meaningful—whether it was finding the best spot for a gelato or learning about Dubrovnik’s role in history.

The private aspect also means you avoid the hustle and bustle of large groups, making it easier to absorb the history and enjoy the scenery. Plus, if you’re traveling with family or friends, it’s a wonderful way to connect over a shared adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible exploration of Dubrovnik’s walls and old town. It suits those who appreciate expert local guides and enjoy personalized attention. Game of Thrones fans will enjoy the added layer of filming location insights, but the stunning views and historic sites are captivating for all.

Those with moderate fitness levels will find it manageable, especially if they start early or pace themselves. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a more meaningful, unhurried visit.

The Sum Up

The Private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Dubrovnik’s most iconic sights with a personalized touch. The knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and flexible itinerary make it a top choice for travelers who want depth over speed. While there’s some walking involved, the overall experience balances history, scenery, and local stories in a way that feels intimate and authentic.

If you value expert guidance, stunning panoramas, and a tailored tour experience, this is a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, detailed exploration without the constraints of large groups or rigid schedules.

This tour provides excellent value for money, memorable moments, and insider stories to enrich your Dubrovnik visit. It’s a perfect blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and scenic beauty—making your time in Dubrovnik truly unforgettable.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels because there are some steep sections and stairs involved. Reviewers mention the need for some physical stamina, especially in hot weather.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering key sites and the walls at a comfortable pace.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a private guide and all stops on the itinerary. Entrance to the Walls (€40) is not included in the tour fee.

Can I start in the morning or afternoon?
Yes, you can choose a start time that suits your schedule—either morning or afternoon.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes at the Church of St. Ignatius in Boskovic Square.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering more flexibility and personal attention.

Are entrance tickets to sites included?
No, entrance to the Walls is €40 per person, paid separately.

Can I bring my dog or service animal?
Service animals are allowed; ensure they are well-behaved and comfortable walking along the route.

What is the best time of day to do this tour?
Early morning is recommended to avoid crowds and heat, especially in peak summer months.

How do I meet my guide?
Your guide will meet you at Brsalje ul. 5, centrally located in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, holding a sign with your name.

In the end, this private Dubrovnik tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historical insights, and personalized service—perfect for making your visit both memorable and meaningful.