Dubrovnik is one of the top cruise ports along the Adriatic, famous for its stunning Old Town, massive city walls, and cinematic appeal as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Whether you’re after a private, intimate experience or want to walk the historic walls, the city’s compact size and rich visual history make it perfect for shore excursions. We especially like the Dubrovnik Bestseller because it combines the best of both worlds: exploring Dubrovnik and Cavtat at your own pace, with panoramic views that will stay with you. Its flexibility, private format, and detailed focus make it a favorite for travelers pressed for time but eager for authentic experiences.
One thing to note: Dubrovnik’s charm is in its walkable Old Town, its views from Mount Srd, and its film locations, not to mention the lively streets and excellent photo opportunities. For a variety of options, ranging from scenic drives to dedicated Game of Thrones tours, the list below offers something for most interests and budgets.
1. Dubrovnik Bestseller (2 cities and panorama tour) SHORE EXCURSION
At number one, the Dubrovnik Bestseller offers a personalized private experience that hits the highlights of both the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik and the quaint coastal village of Cavtat. This tour is perfect if you want to see two distinct sides of the region without feeling rushed. It includes a drive along Dubrovnik Bay, with stunning views from Mount Srd, a spot only accessible by minivan or car which provides a sweeping panorama of the city and surrounding islands. The journey then continues to Cavtat, a charming medieval town that boasts a sunny promenade and luxury yacht berths, perfect for a leisurely walk. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-2 hour guided walk through Dubrovnik’s Old Town, highlighting Onofrio’s Fountain, Stradun, and other must-see sites. This tour’s private format lets you explore on foot, meaning you can linger at favorite spots or skip some if you prefer. Reviewers praise Ivo, the guide, for his deep local knowledge and friendly approach, making it feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend. Priced at $202.62 per person, it’s a good value for those wanting a flexible, intimate experience without missing highlights. Bottom line: ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day with plenty of personal attention.
2. Dubrovnik Above Beyond, Srdj drive & guided Old Town PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION
Next up is the Dubrovnik Above Beyond, a 4-hour private tour designed for those who want a guided, in-depth look at Dubrovnik’s Old Town and Mount Srd. Your guide will meet you directly at your cruise ship, ensuring no lost time. The tour includes a scenic drive to Mount Srd, offering panoramic views that feature the Old Town, Lapad Peninsula, and the Elaphiti Islands—these vistas are often used in promotional videos for Dubrovnik. Then, you’ll walk through the Old Town, visiting landmarks like Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and Dubrovnik Cathedral, with your guide providing detailed stories behind each site. This tour is praised for its personal touch; reviewers mention guides like Miho, who made the experience lively and informative. At $218.21, it offers a great balance of private comfort and detailed storytelling. Best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time with a dedicated guide and enjoy a relaxed pace. Bottom line: great for those who want a private, tailored tour with expert narration.
3. Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Explore Dubrovnik by Cable Car (ticket included)
For around $84, the Explore Dubrovnik by Cable Car offers a fun, classic way to see Dubrovnik from above. The highlight is the cable car ride up Mount Srd, which provides breathtaking views over the city, coastline, and nearby islands, especially during sunset. The guided walking tour through the Old Town covers key sights like Pile Square, the Rector’s Palace, and Onofrio’s Fountain, providing context and stories behind each site. Along with a free 30-minute stroll on Mount Srd, this tour combines scenic views and city highlights in about three hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time. Reviewers note guides like Sara, who enhance the experience with local insights, and many appreciate the panoramic cable car ride as a must-do photo opportunity. This tour is ideal if you want a taste of Dubrovnik’s history with a scenic twist at a reasonable price. Bottom line: perfect for first-timers who want a compact, visually stunning overview.
4. Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Game of Thrones Tour (City Walls ticket included)
At number four, the Game of Thrones Tour is a must for fans eager to see where the hit HBO series was filmed. It covers key locations like Lovrijenac Fortress (the Red Keep), the City Walls, and sites used for King’s Landing. Your guide shares behind-the-scenes trivia, filming secrets, and episode stories—making it more than just a sightseeing walk. The 3-hour tour includes entry to the City Walls and Lovrijenac Fortress, which is a highlight itself for panoramic views and film buffs. Reviewers mention guides like Lana and Zoran for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. It’s a lively tour, perfect for fans of the series or anyone wanting a more cinematic experience of Dubrovnik’s historic walls and fortresses. Priced at $113.90, it offers good value for a themed experience that combines history and pop culture. Bottom line: ideal for Game of Thrones fans wanting to see the filming locations with a lively guide.
5. Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: City Walls Walking Tour (entrance ticket included)
For those wanting to walk along the ancient city walls, this City Walls Walking Tour delivers. It’s a well-rated, 3-hour tour that includes entrance tickets to the walls, allowing you to enjoy the dramatic views over Dubrovnik’s rooftops and narrow streets. The guide shares engaging stories of the walls’ history and construction, enriching the experience. Small groups and a knowledgeable guide—like Kate—ensure you get personalized insights. Reviewers highlight the impressive views and the guide’s depth of knowledge as standout features. Perfect for travelers who want to see Dubrovnik from the top and learn about its defenses. At $111.50, it’s a worthwhile investment to get an authentic feel for the city’s history from above. Bottom line: a top choice for history and architecture lovers wanting a thorough, guided walk on the walls.
6. Total Game of Thrones Shore Excursion
For avid fans, the Total Game of Thrones Shore Excursion offers an immersive, private day that combines filming locations, the Arboretum of Trsteno (King’s Landing gardens), and a boat trip to Lokrum Island. This 5.5-hour tour is personalized, with tickets to Lokrum, Lovrijenac Fortress, and the Arboretum included. Your guide takes you into scenes like the Red Keep and the Walk of Shame, with plenty of behind-the-scenes stories. The boat ride to Lokrum provides a chance for photos on the Iron Throne replica and relaxing views. The guide’s experience shines through reviews praising Mihaela for her knowledge and flexibility. The $250.61 price makes it the most expensive but offers a complete, exclusive experience—ideal for big fans or travelers who want a full day of exploring series locations combined with Dubrovnik’s natural beauty. Bottom line: perfect for dedicated fans wanting an exclusive behind-the-scenes adventure.
7. Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Old Town Walking Tour
Finally, the Old Town Walking Tour offers a quick, affordable introduction to Dubrovnik. In about 1.5 hours, your guide takes you through Pile Gate, the Cathedral, and Rector’s Palace, ending with a walk along Stradun. It’s a great option if your time is limited or if you want to get a quick sense of the city’s layout and history. Reviewers commend guide Nicolas for his clear explanations and friendly manner. This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer a shorter visit but still want to see the highlights. At only $27.58, it provides an economical way to get your bearings. Bottom line: a solid choice for a brief but insightful taste of Dubrovnik.
How to Choose the Right Dubrovnik Shore Excursion
When deciding on your Dubrovnik shore experience, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you want a private, flexible day exploring both the city and nearby Cavtat, the Bestseller tour is perfect. For a guided, in-depth dive into Dubrovnik’s sights with a personal touch, the Above Beyond tour offers excellent value. Fans of Game of Thrones should opt for the Game of Thrones Tour or the Total Game of Thrones tour for those fully immersed in the series.
If your priority is scenic views and quick highlights, the cable car trip or the city walls walk provide spectacular vistas at a reasonable price. Budget travelers or those with limited time might prefer the shorter Old Town Walking Tour, which offers a taste without a long commitment. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
To sum it up, Dubrovnik offers a range of shore excursions that suit different interests and styles. For a personalized day that combines history and scenery, the private tours shine. For series fans, the detailed filming locations add extra fun. And for those on a budget or short on time, the shorter guided walks deliver a memorable taste of the city. No matter your choice, Dubrovnik’s stunning views, history, and cinematic fame make it a shore experience worth planning ahead for.