From Split: Dubrovnik Private Day Tour with Local Guide

Travelers who have a soft spot for historic cities and breathtaking coastlines often look to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast for their next adventure. This full-day Dubrovnik tour from Split, offered by Pelican Tours Split, promises an engaging glimpse into one of Europe’s most celebrated walled cities, paired with the charm of a local guide and scenic stops along the way. While it’s not the cheapest option around, the combination of expert guidance, comfortable transport, and a flexible itinerary makes this tour a solid choice for those craving an authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to explore Dubrovnik’s ancient streets with a passionate local guide, and to enjoy the stunning views from the city walls or a cable car ride. The visit to Ston, famed for its oysters, adds a delicious flavor to the day, especially for foodies. A potential consideration? The tour’s duration and pace might be a bit tight for leisurely sightseeing, especially if you want to linger in each spot. However, for travelers eager to see the highlights and soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, this trip hits the right notes.

This tour is particularly suited for those who appreciate guided insights, scenic coastal drives, and a manageable day trip from Split. If you’re traveling with a group up to 8 people and want a curated experience that balances sightseeing with comfort, this could well be your ideal Croatia excursion.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in a passenger van makes for an easy, relaxed day.
• Local guide expertise enriches the experience with engaging stories and context.
• Visit to Ston offers a chance to try fresh oysters and enjoy stunning coastal views.
• Flexible time in Dubrovnik, allowing for self-guided exploration after the guided tour.
• Stunning vistas from the city walls or cable car provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Cost reflects a private, all-inclusive experience for groups up to 8, with hotel pickup possible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with either a pickup at your hotel or a meeting at the Split promenade. This simple start removes the stress of navigating public transport or finding your way to a designated spot. We appreciate this level of convenience, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or young kids. Pelican Tours emphasizes arriving 15 minutes early, with a complimentary coffee if you’re prompt—little touches that add to the relaxed atmosphere.

The Scenic Drive and Ston

After departure, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along Croatia’s stunning coastline, with your guide sharing insights about Dalmatia’s history and landscape. The first notable stop is Ston, a small town famous for its massive salt pans and oysters. Here, you’ll have some free time—particularly tempting if you’re a seafood lover— to sample these ocean delicacies (optional, but highly recommended). The reviews suggest that many travelers find this stop a pleasant surprise, with some even describing it as “the highlight of the day,” thanks to the fresh oysters and picturesque setting.

Arrival in Dubrovnik

Before noon, you’ll reach Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of Europe” thanks to its spectacular architecture and preserved city walls. Your guide, a local with years of experience, will lead a 1.5-hour tour through the main streets and key sights, sharing stories behind the city’s formidable walls, charming squares, and historical landmarks.

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Walking Tour and Main Attractions

Expect to walk through narrow cobbled streets, past orange-tiled roofs, and along ancient city walls. The guide’s passion makes history come alive, and you’ll appreciate the small group setting, which encourages questions and interaction. The guided portion ends at Dubrovnik’s Cathedral, built on the ruins of an earlier 12th-century church, and reconstructed after the devastating earthquake of 1667. This provides a tangible link to the city’s resilience and enduring beauty.

Free Time and Optional Activities

Following the guided tour, you have ample free time to explore at your own pace. You might want to climb the city walls for panoramic views of the sea and terracotta rooftops—an activity highly praised by previous travelers as “absolutely worth it,” thanks to the stunning vistas. Alternatively, taking a cable car ride offers an aerial perspective of Dubrovnik’s sprawling old town and the shimmering Adriatic, with many saying it’s “the best way to see the city from above.”

Tour End and Return

The tour concludes roughly where it started, within a 200-meter radius of the meeting point, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to Split. The company reserves the right to adjust the drop-off location, depending on traffic, but they aim to keep it close to the original meeting point.

The Value of This Tour

At $918 for a group of up to 8, the cost might seem steep at first glance. However, you’d be paying for transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, all taxes, tolls, parking, and insurance—a package that simplifies your day and maximizes comfort. For couples or small groups, this cost averages around $115 per person, which compares favorably to the expense of visiting Dubrovnik independently when factoring in transport and guide fees.

Many reviews highlight the personalized experience and how having a local guide makes Dubrovnik’s history and culture more accessible. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door service from Split and the flexibility to explore afterward enhances the overall value.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Dubrovnik day trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the stress of organizing logistics. It’s ideal for history buffs, scenery lovers, and foodies eager to taste oysters and see Dubrovnik’s most photogenic spots. The small-group size fosters a more intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer to ask questions and get personalized insights.

If you’re short on time but want to get a good feel for Dubrovnik’s charm, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction, blending cultural sights, scenic views, and culinary delights. It’s also a good choice if you value comfort and ease—especially since the transport and guide are included, leaving you free to enjoy the day instead of worrying about details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts a full day, with pick-up and drop-off included, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed pace and small group size make it suitable for families, though consider the walking involved and bring comfortable shoes.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport and, if needed, a visa. Also, it’s wise to carry water, sunscreen, and a camera for those stunning views.

Are there options for guided tours in languages other than English and Italian?
Yes, other languages are available on demand, so check with Pelican Tours when booking.

Can I visit Dubrovnik’s walls or take the cable car?
Yes, after the guided tour, you’re free to explore these options for a fee, and they’re highly recommended for the views alone.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, transport, the local guide, tolls, parking, taxes, and insurance are included. Food, drinks, and optional activities like oysters or the cable car are not.

To sum it up, this full-day Dubrovnik tour from Split offers a balanced mix of guided storytelling, scenic drives, and free time to explore one of Europe’s most iconic cities. Its emphasis on comfort, local expertise, and memorable views makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, authentic taste of Croatia’s famed coastline—and a perfect way to add a highlight to any Dalmatian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: