Exploring Dubrovnik and Ston on a Private Day Trip from Split: A Balanced Look
If you’re seeking a flexible, personalized way to see some of Croatia’s most iconic sights—without the rush of tour groups—the Private Full-day Dubrovnik and Ston Tour from Split might just fit the bill. This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 from four reviews, offers a tailored experience that takes you in style and comfort through two fascinating destinations.
What we love about this experience is the freedom it grants. You can customize your day’s pace, focusing on what interests you most in Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town or strolling along the impressive Walls of Ston. Plus, traveling in a luxury van with WiFi and bottled water makes the journey comfortable and relaxed. The drawback? Since entrance fees are not included, you’ll need to budget for those separately, which is typical but worth noting. This tour appeals best to travelers who value flexibility and authentic, less rushed visits over rigid group schedules.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking beautiful views and cultural highlights, this tour’s design caters to a broad range of interests. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to explore Croatia’s southern coast with personalized guidance and comfort.
Key Points
- Fully customizable itinerary allows you to spend as much or as little time as you wish at each location.
- Luxury transportation with WiFi and bottled water for a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Visit both Dubrovnik and Ston in one day, with a flexible schedule tailored to your preferences.
- Scenic countryside views enrich your journey between destinations, adding to the overall experience.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.
- Admission fees and optional attractions like the Walls of Ston and the Dubrovnik Cable Car are extra.
Setting the Scene for Your Day
This private tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Split accommodation—no need to worry about navigating public transport or finding your way. Your driver, who also acts as your guide, will whisk you away in a luxury, air-conditioned van equipped with WiFi, so you can stay connected or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
The beauty of this tour lies in its flexibility. You design your day, choosing which attractions to prioritize and how long to linger. The route includes some of Croatia’s most memorable sights, with suggestions that can adapt to your mood or interests.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Split
The Stops in Detail
Walls of Ston
Your journey might start with a visit to the Walls of Ston, a marvel of medieval engineering. These walls, built beginning in 1358, are the second largest in the world after China’s. They encircle the town of Ston and are an awe-inspiring testament to historical fortification.
While admission tickets aren’t included in the tour price (€9.50), many travelers find exploring these walls well worth the extra cost. The walls stretch over 5 kilometers and have six fortresses, making them a formidable defensive structure. The views from the top are particularly striking, offering a panoramic look over the salt pans and the Dalmatian landscape.
One review highlights the experience: “Experience the beauty of the Walls of Ston,” noting that exploring these ancient walls is a highlight of visiting the area. You can stroll at your leisure, soaking in the history and the scenery.
Dubrovnik’s Old Town and City Walls
The jewel of this trip is undoubtedly Dubrovnik’s Old Town, surrounded by iconic stone walls. The tour suggests spending around five hours here, enough time to wander the narrow, cobbled streets and soak in the lively atmosphere.
The City Walls of Dubrovnik are some of the best-preserved in the world, measuring nearly 2 kilometers long. With six fortresses, including Lovrijenac and Revelin, the walls provide both historical insight and breathtaking vistas of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Many visitors find walking atop these walls to be a quintessential Dubrovnik experience. Since entrance fees (€9.50 for the walls) are separate, plan accordingly.
Dubrovnik Cable Car
For a different perspective, the tour offers the option to ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car. From the top of Mount Srđ, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Old Town, the islands, and the surrounding landscape. The cable car ride costs €20 per person and takes about two hours including time at the summit. This is a popular activity, and many reviewers mention how stunning the vistas are from above.
While in Split, here are other experiences we've covered
- Blue Lagoon Island Bliss: A Full-Day with Lunch
- Split: Bol, Hvar, Pakleni Island, and Solta Full-Day Tour
- Full-Day Swimming and Snorkeling Tour in Split
- From Hvar: Blue cave group speedboat tour full day
- From Split: Full-Day Horse Riding & Quad Biking with Lunch
- Split: Blue Cave, Vis & Hvar Full-Day Trip by Speedboat
Cultural Sights: Church of Saint Blaise and Rector’s Palace
A quick stop at the Church of Saint Blaise offers a glimpse into Dubrovnik’s religious and cultural heritage. This baroque church, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, is a peaceful spot and free to visit.
The Rector’s Palace provides insight into Dubrovnik’s governance during the Republic era. Built in the late 15th century, it’s a fascinating site to explore if you’re interested in the city’s political history. The tour recommends about 45 minutes here—just enough to appreciate its architecture and history.
Practical Details and Value
The price for this private experience is around $596.68 per group, accommodating up to 8 people. Considering the personalized nature, this cost breaks down to roughly $75 per person for a full day of private touring, transportation, and flexibility—an excellent value for travelers who prefer comfort and customization over public tours.
Included in the price are private transportation, bottled water, WiFi, and all taxes and fees. You’ll also receive rain ponchos should weather turn sour, which is a nice touch. Not included are entrance fees—about €2.50 for the Cathedral of the Assumption and €9.50 for the Walls of Ston—and optional attractions like the Dubrovnik Cable Car (€20 per person).
The tour’s flexible timetable means you can start whenever suits you, with the hours running from midday to late evening, ensuring you maximize your day without feeling rushed.
Real Traveler Insights
One reviewer remarked that their driver, Tatjana, was attentive and even took them for coffee, highlighting the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. Others appreciated the clean, spacious vehicle, which made their day comfortable and stress-free.
Another reviewer appreciated the ability to choose stops and the lack of rush, which allowed for a more relaxed experience. The no-pressure approach and the opportunity to tailor the day are significant pluses.
Considerations
Since attraction tickets are not included, budgeting about €12 for entrance fees is wise. Also, the optional cable car adds a notable expense but is often considered worth it for the views. The flexibility to skip or include specific stops makes this tour adaptable, but it requires some planning on your part.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This private Dubrovnik and Ston tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized schedules and prefer an intimate experience over large group tours. It’s ideal if you want to explore at your own pace and enjoy scenic drives with comfortable amenities. History enthusiasts, photo lovers, and those craving authentic local sights will find it especially rewarding.
It also suits travelers who want to avoid crowded, rushed sightseeing, as the tour allows plenty of time at each location. If you’re looking for a luxury, flexible day trip that combines scenic beauty, historical sites, and cultural highlights, this tour offers compelling value.
Final Thoughts
This private full-day adventure from Split to Dubrovnik and Ston combines comfort, flexibility, and memorable sights. While the extra costs for entrances and optional attractions should be considered, the ability to customize your day makes it a noteworthy option for travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed Croatian experience.
The stunning views from the city walls, the impressive fortifications of Ston, and the charming streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town all promise a memorable day. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenic photo enthusiast, or simply someone who wants a worry-free way to see the coast, this tour is well worth considering.
In the end, it’s a chance to see Croatia’s coastal treasures with ease and in style—an experience you’ll likely remember long after you’ve returned home.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for small groups or just couples?
This tour is private and can accommodate groups up to 8 people, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups who want a personalized experience.
Can I choose what attractions to visit during the day?
Yes, the itinerary is fully customizable, so you can decide how much time to spend at each location and what sites interest you most.
Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees are not included. You should budget for attractions like the Walls of Ston (€9.50), the Cathedral (€2.50), and optional activities like the Dubrovnik Cable Car (€20).
What transportation is provided?
A private, air-conditioned van with WiFi and bottled water is provided, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.
What is the typical duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen stops and pace.
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience, so you don’t need to worry about logistics.
How flexible is the start time?
You can choose your preferred start time within the hours of 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM, with options to suit your schedule.
This private Dubrovnik and Ston tour from Split offers a relaxed, customizable way to explore two of Croatia’s most captivating coastal towns, making it a smart choice for those who value comfort and flexibility.
More Private Tours in Split
- Private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with side-trip to Ston
- Private Authentic Day Trip Mostar – Kravice – Medjugorje From Split
- Private Tour From Split to Biokovo Skywalk and St. George Peak
- Split: City Introduction and Highlights Walking Tour – Private
- Unique Private Photoshoot Tour of Split
- Split Hotels to Cruise Port of Split – Departure Private Transfer
More Tours in Split
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
- From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour with Boat Cruise & Swimming
- From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour
- Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir
- Secret Marjan Park Hiking Tour in Split
- From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
More Tour Reviews in Split
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
- From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour with Boat Cruise & Swimming
- From Split: Catamaran Cruise to Bol, Golden Horn & Bra
- From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour
- From Split: All-Inclusive Horse Riding and Jeep Exploration
- All Inclusive Brac and Solta islands swimming cruise
More Split experiences we've covered
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
- From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour with Boat Cruise & Swimming
- From Split: Catamaran Cruise to Bol, Golden Horn & Bra
- From Split: Blue Cave, Mamma Mia, Vis & Hvar 5-Island Tour
- From Split: All-Inclusive Horse Riding and Jeep Exploration
- All Inclusive Brac and Solta islands swimming cruise
- Blue Cave & Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands Group Tour from Split & Trogir
- Secret Marjan Park Hiking Tour in Split
- From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
- Hvar, Bra & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split & Trogir
- Private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with side-trip to Ston
- Split & Diocletian’s Palace Walking Tour