Dubrovnik: City Walls, Old Town Walking Tour & Adriatic View

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town and City Walls: A Practical Look at the Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, a city famous for its well-preserved medieval walls and stunning seaside views, you’ll want to consider a walking tour that brings these highlights to life. This particular Old Town walking tour with City Walls views, offered by OceanAir Travels, has earned a solid reputation, with a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 640 reviews. It’s a great way to get a manageable, insightful glimpse of Dubrovnik’s essence without breaking the bank—at just $25 per person.

What we really like about this experience is the focus on professional, knowledgeable guides who bring stories and history alive, and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic from the historic walls. Plus, the tour is flexible, offering an optional Dubrovnik Pass that grants access to the walls, museums, and public transport, adding value for those who want to explore more on their own.

A small caveat? The tour doesn’t include entry tickets to the City Walls by default, so if you want to walk along the ramparts, you’ll need to purchase a ticket separately (around €40). Also, since the tour involves walking along the walls and some uneven surfaces, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who find steep climbs challenging. Still, this experience suits most travelers interested in a comprehensive, engaging overview of Dubrovnik’s historic heart.

If you enjoy guided walking tours that combine storytelling with scenic vistas, this tour is likely to be a good fit. It’s particularly well-suited for history buffs, first-time visitors, or those wanting to see the city from a fresh perspective without the hassle of navigating on their own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Excellent Guides: The tour benefits from friendly, knowledgeable guides who make history interesting and engaging.
• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s rooftops from the city walls.
• Affordable Price: At $25, it offers good value, with many reviews praising the experience for its price.
• Adjustable Options: The Dubrovnik Pass can be added for free entry to the Walls, museums, and transport.
• Limited Wall Access Included: Entry to the Walls is an additional cost unless you have a DU Pass.
• Physical Demands: Be prepared for walking, some stairs, and uneven surfaces—less ideal for those with mobility challenges.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

When you show up for this tour, the meeting point at the entrance of the Nautika restaurant makes for a scenic start, with easy access and a nice welcoming vibe. From there, your guide will lead you through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a place teeming with history, architecture, and lively streets.

One of the favorite parts of the tour is walking down Stradun Street, the main artery of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It’s a lively, bustling stretch that’s perfect for soaking up the atmosphere and snapping photos. You’ll pass by notable sites like the Franciscan Monastery, which houses one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, still operating today—a real treat for those interested in medical history.

Another highlight is sipping water from an ancient Dubrovnik fountain—a small but meaningful touch that connects you to centuries of city life. The guide will share stories about the city’s resilience, including tales from the War of Independence and natural earthquakes, making history feel alive and relevant.

The tour’s true star is, of course, the City Walls. You’ll get a guided overview of this iconic structure, with plenty of time for photos and to appreciate the sweeping views. While the tickets aren’t included, many reviews mention that if you have a valid Dubrovnik Pass, you can enter free, making this a cost-effective way to see the walls. A guide will hand over your pass at the start if you choose this option.

Walking along the walls provides a mix of spectacular vistas of the Adriatic and a sense of Dubrovnik’s strategic importance through history. Many reviewers mention how the views are simply stunning, with some saying it’s the best part of the trip. However, be mindful that the walk involves climbing stairs and navigating narrow pathways—something to consider if you have mobility issues or small children.

Other stops like Lua Square, home to the Clock Tower, and the Cathedral of the Assumption give you a glimpse into the city’s architectural beauty and religious history. The Jesuit Stairs are also a popular photo spot, especially for those who love a good panoramic shot.

Throughout the tour, guides share insider stories and historical anecdotes. For instance, one reviewer noted that Boris, their guide, was “funny, charismatic, and had incredible life stories,” which really enhanced the experience. Others appreciated guides who tailored the pace to suit the group, making it relaxed and enjoyable.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The tour lasts a bit over two hours, primarily focusing on the Old Town’s highlights and the walls. You’ll be walking through the narrow streets, some of which are cobbled and slightly uneven, so good walking shoes are recommended. The meeting point at Nautika’s entrance is easily reachable, and the ending point is back where you started, making logistics straightforward.

The cost for entry to the Walls isn’t included, but if you plan to walk along them, budgeting around €40 for a ticket is wise unless you have the DU Pass. The Pass is a nice addition if you want to maximize your time and access, especially since it also covers some museums and transport.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly—bring sunglasses, water, and comfortable clothes. Since the walls can get hot, especially in summer, some reviews mentioned the importance of staying hydrated and taking breaks.

The group sizes are small, which means more personalized attention from guides and easier navigation through the narrow streets. This makes for a more engaging experience, especially when guides share personal stories and tips.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, with many calling out individuals like Dubravka, Boris, and Ivan for their professionalism and knowledge. Angela shared, “Bozana our guide was very interesting and she provided us with some great information all along the tour,” which echoes many sentiments about well-trained guides.

Several reviews emphasize how stunning the views from the walls are—“views atop the Walls are simply stunning,” said Warwick, describing the experience as “nothing short of spectacular.” For many, this was the highlight of their trip.

On the downside, some reviewers noted that the tour was a bit misleadingly named—the “City Walls” tour doesn’t include the walls unless you purchase a ticket separately or have a DU Pass. Clare commented, “It was a bit misleading as it was called a city walls tour but not clear that this did not give us access to the Wall!”

Others mentioned the hot weather and stairs could be tiring, especially for families or older travelers. The pace and accessibility of the tour are worth considering if you’re traveling with small children or mobility concerns.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Dubrovnik’s old town and city walls. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided storytelling and scenic viewpoints, especially since guides are known for being friendly and knowledgeable.

It’s also a smart choice for travelers who want good value—the price includes a lot of interesting sights and insights for a very reasonable cost. If you’re interested in the City Walls, just remember to factor in the additional ticket cost unless you opt for the DU Pass.

Keep in mind, if you’re very sensitive to heat, stairs, or walking distances, you might want to plan accordingly. For those with mobility challenges, this tour might not be suitable, as the walk involves some uneven surfaces and stairs.

FAQs

Does the tour include entry to the City Walls?
No, the standard tour doesn’t include the Walls. You can buy a ticket at the site for around €40 or use a valid DU Pass for free entry if you have one.

Can I buy the City Walls ticket separately?
Yes, tickets are available at the site, or you can include it if you purchase the optional DU Pass.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes just over two hours, mainly walking through the Old Town and along the walls.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not specifically designed for kids, especially with the stairs and uneven paths, so consider your children’s mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, water, comfortable clothes, and walking shoes. It can get hot, so dress accordingly.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at the entrance of Nautika restaurant, which is easy to find.

Is the tour available in other languages?
It’s primarily in English and Croatian, but check with the provider if you need another language.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine, so bring rain gear if necessary.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the group size large?
No, it’s a small group, which makes for a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour offers a well-rounded experience of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and iconic city walls. It’s a fantastic way to get a sense of the city’s history, architecture, and lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. The guides’ expertise and the stunning views make it a worthwhile addition to your Dubrovnik itinerary, especially if you’re interested in learning stories behind the sights.

While it’s not a fully inclusive ticketed tour of the walls, the option to purchase a Dubrovnik Pass or buy the ticket separately makes it flexible and accessible. Just be prepared for some walking and brief climbs, and you’ll come away with memories and photos worth showing off.

For those who love historic cities with scenic vistas, this tour balances education, scenery, and value in a way that many travelers have appreciated. It’s especially suitable for first-timers eager to explore the city’s core, or those wanting a guided experience that offers some local insights without the hefty price tag.

You can check availability for your dates here: