Private Full-day Dubrovnik and Ston Tour from Split

Travelers seeking a flexible and intimate way to experience two of Croatia’s most captivating cities will find this private full-day tour from Split a compelling option. Combining comfort, customization, and stunning scenery, it promises a relaxed day exploring the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and the impressive walls of Ston. The tour’s luxury transportation and personalized itinerary are key highlights, ensuring you see what matters most to you.

What we particularly like about this experience is the flexibility—you can tailor the day to your interests, whether that’s wandering Old Town Dubrovnik or walking the formidable walls of Ston. The comfortable, air-conditioned van with WiFi keeps the journey smooth and enjoyable. One thing to consider is that entry fees and specific attractions are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those extras. This tour suits travelers who crave a private, bespoke adventure rather than a crowded group experience, especially if visiting both Dubrovnik and Ston in one day appeals to you.

Key Points

• Fully customizable: You choose your stops, pace, and activities.
• Luxury transport: Travel in a clean, well-maintained van with WiFi and bottled water.
• Scenic views: Enjoy Dalmatian countryside vistas en route.
• Flexible timing: Approximate duration of 7 to 10 hours, with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• Independent exploration: You decide how much time to spend at each site.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees and activities like the cable car are extra.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This tour offers a privately guided day that balances sightseeing with personal comfort. With the tour operated by Maci-Tours, you’re assured of reliable service, as echoed by reviews praising their punctuality and attentive drivers. The cost of $596.68 per group makes this an appealing choice for up to 8 people, providing good value for a tailored day filled with some of Croatia’s most iconic sights.

The Journey Begins: Scenic Drive to Dubrovnik

Starting from Split, you’ll hop into a luxury Mercedes van that is described as impeccably clean, with modern amenities like WiFi. The drive itself is part of the appeal—passing through Dalmatian landscapes dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and charming villages, offering a taste of local life and scenic beauty. Reviewers mention the comfortable, spacious, and well-maintained vehicle as a highlight, making the long drive feel more like a luxury ride.

Stop 1: Ston’s Walls — A Fortress of Impressive Scale

While the itinerary is flexible, many choose to start with Ston’s Walls—the second-largest fortification system in the world after China’s. Built beginning in 1358 to protect the salt pans and territory, these walls stretch over 5 kilometers. They’re a testament to medieval engineering and offer sweeping views of the salt flats and surrounding countryside.

Admission fee: €9.50, not included in the tour price. Reviewers describe the walls as spectacular and a must-see for history buffs or anyone who loves a good walk with a view. Expect around an hour here, giving you ample time to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

Stop 2: Discovering Dubrovnik’s Old Town

The heart of this tour is Dubrovnik’s Old Town, encased by the famous city walls. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of narrow streets, baroque buildings, and lively squares. Tourists love wandering the Stradun, the main thoroughfare, where shops and cafes line the marble-paved street.

You’ll have about five hours here, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Some travelers choose to visit the Church of Saint Blaise, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, or step into the Rector’s Palace to get a glimpse of Dubrovnik’s governance in centuries past—though these attractions are optional.

Tip: The city walls are a highlight, with a 1-hour walk offering spectacular views over the rooftops and the Adriatic. One review mentions the walls as Dubrovnik’s most iconic feature, best appreciated firsthand.

Optional: Dubrovnik Cable Car

A popular add-on is the cable car ride, which takes you to Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the city and nearby islands. The trip lasts about 2 hours and costs around €20 per person, but it’s entirely optional. The views are described as breathtaking—a highlight for many travelers.

Other Stops and Flexibility

Your guide will adapt the itinerary based on your preferences. For instance, some guests opt for a quick visit to the Church of Saint Blaise, while others prefer longer stays in certain areas. The tour is designed for you to decide how much time to spend and what to see, making it ideal for those who dislike rigid schedules.

Practical Details and Extra Costs

• Transportation: Private, air-conditioned, WiFi-equipped van.
• Included: Bottled water, all fees and taxes.
• Not included: Entrance tickets for attractions (€2.50 for Cathedral, €9.50 for Walls, €20 for cable car). These are paid on-site, so budget accordingly.
• Meeting point: Hotel pickup in Split, with flexible timing (around noon to midnight).
• Duration: Expect about 7–10 hours, depending on your pace.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Guests praise the personalized nature of this tour. One reviewer shared that their driver, Tatjana, was attentive and even took them for coffee, adding a friendly touch that larger tours rarely offer. Another said the car was superb—clean, spacious, and comfortable—making the long journey more enjoyable.

Authentic experiences like walking the Dubrovnik walls or exploring Ston’s salt flats** are enriched by the opportunity to go at your own pace, rather than feeling rushed on a group tour. The flexibility is especially valuable for those wanting to linger longer in their favorite spots or skip attractions that don’t interest them.

The Value Proposition

Though the price might seem steep at first glance, it covers private transportation, a personal driver, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Since attraction tickets are extra, travelers should plan for additional costs—roughly €32+ for key sites. Still, the ease of having a customized day without the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded groups adds significant value.

For anyone keen on experiencing Dubrovnik and Ston without feeling rushed or crowded, this tour offers a blend of comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly suitable for small groups or families who want a more personal, tailored sightseeing experience.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Split to Dubrovnik and Ston is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, flexible pacing, and comfort. With a well-maintained vehicle and knowledgeable driver, you’ll enjoy scenic drives and plenty of time to explore at your leisure. The opportunity to customize your stops means you can focus on what interests you most—be it the formidable city walls, historic sites, or simply soaking in the incredible views.

While additional costs for attraction tickets should be kept in mind, the overall experience offers excellent value for those seeking a stress-free, bespoke day in Croatia’s coastal region. It’s ideal for small groups or families who want the freedom to shape their adventure, making your Croatian coastline visit truly memorable.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Split, making your day more relaxing and hassle-free.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, depending on how long you wish to spend at each site and your personal pace.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. Expect to pay around €2.50 for the Cathedral of the Assumption, €9.50 for Ston’s Walls, and €20 for the cable car ride if you choose to do these activities.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is fully flexible, allowing you to decide what sites to visit and how much time to spend there.

What is the vehicle like?
Travel is in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes van that’s spacious, clean, and equipped with WiFi and bottled water.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, especially those who appreciate a private, relaxed experience. Just consider the walking involved at sites like the city walls.

What if I want to skip certain attractions?
You can customize your schedule, skipping attractions that don’t interest you and focusing on what you love.

How does the pricing compare to other tours?
While the upfront cost is higher than group tours, the private nature, comfort, and flexibility can make it a better value for those who prioritize a personalized experience.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic countryside drives, personalized pacing, and the opportunity to explore iconic sites at your own speed makes this a standout choice for a relaxed, immersive day.

This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy Croatia’s coast without the rush, with the comfort of private transportation and the freedom to craft their perfect day.