Dubrovnik Combo: Old Town & Ancient City Walls

If you’re eyeing a comprehensive experience in Dubrovnik, this Combo Tour of Old Town and City Walls might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of the city’s most iconic sights, all in about three and a half hours. And the best part? It’s highly rated, with over 960 reviews averaging a perfect 5 stars, and recommended by 96% of those who’ve booked it.

What I really like about this tour is the blend of walking through historic streets and then climbing the famous city walls—it offers both a ground-level perspective and breathtaking vistas from above. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and passion, turning a sightseeing walk into an engaging storytime. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and stairs, so good shoes are a must. This experience suits travelers who want a thorough, yet manageable, look at Dubrovnik’s highlights without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Expert guides make history engaging and bring Dubrovnik’s stories to life.
• The combination of Old Town walk and city walls maximizes your sightseeing in a short time.
• Expect stunning panoramic views over the Old Town and Adriatic Sea from the walls.
• The tour is well-rated for value, providing a lot of information for the price.
• Be prepared for stairs and walking, especially on the city walls.
• Entrance to the walls isn’t included in the price, so budget around €40 for that.

A Deep Dive into the Dubrovnik Combo Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at Dubrovnik Walks’ meeting point, marked by an orange umbrella on Brsalje ul. 8. From there, the guides introduce themselves briefly before heading into the Old Town. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the streets, then another 2 hours walking the city walls—so plan for a fair amount of walking and some stairs. The total itinerary is designed to give you both context and stunning visuals, with a convenient package that combines two of Dubrovnik’s most beloved sights.

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town

We loved the way the tour begins with a walk through the limestone streets of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO World Heritage site. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories behind key landmarks like Onofrio’s Fountain, which is not just beautiful but also a lifesaver for locals and visitors alike. They also point out the Franciscan Monastery with its restored Pieta sculpture, and one of Europe’s oldest still-functioning pharmacies—a real treat for history buffs and curious travelers.

Walking down the main pedestrian street, the Stradun, we found ourselves captivated by the Renaissance Sponza Palace, now housing the city’s archives, and the City Bell Tower. Guides often mention the Rectors Palace and Orlando’s Column, with many reviewers noting how their enthusiastic storytelling makes history accessible and fun. One reviewer, Judith, mentioned her guide Goran: “He gave a thorough history of Dubrovnik, with confidence and humour.” That’s a common sentiment—guides seem genuinely passionate and eager to share their knowledge.

The Architectural and Cultural Highlights

Throughout the walk, you’ll see St Blaise’s Church, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, and the main square, Luza Square, which acts as the heart of the Old Town. Here, you’ll find a mix of stories about daily life in medieval Dubrovnik and insights into how the city has evolved over centuries.

Most reviews highlight how this part of the tour is packed with fascination, but also note the physical aspect—there are cobblestone streets and some steps, so comfortable shoes are essential. Several reviews, like Kristina’s, remind travelers to bring water and prepare for the heat if visiting during summer.

Heading to the City Walls

After exploring the streets, the tour guides lead you to the entrance of the City Walls. Here, you’ll buy tickets (about 40 euros, not included), then set out on a walk along the top of the walls. From this vantage point, you’ll get panoramic views of both the Old Town and the shimmering Adriatic. The walls are about 80 feet high, offering a dramatic perspective on Dubrovnik’s fortifications and the sea beyond.

Many travelers rave about this part. Dina, a reviewer, called the walls “awesome,” noting the breathtaking views and the chance to walk along the historic battlements. The walls have stood for centuries, repelling invasions and now providing stunning photo opportunities. Keep in mind, there are a lot of stairs, and it can get breezy—so secure your hat and hold onto your belongings.

Visiting Fort Lovrijenac

The tour ends at Fort Lovrijenac, a separate fortress located outside the main walls but still part of the city’s defensive system. You’re free to explore this independently afterward, which many do, soaking in more views or taking photos. The reviews indicate that the combination of the walls and the fort offers a comprehensive snapshot of Dubrovnik’s military history, along with incredible scenery.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at about $51.55 per person, which, considering the depth of experience and the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, offers solid value. Remember, entrance fees to the walls are separate, so you should budget around €40 if you plan to walk the walls yourself after the tour. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience much more than just walking alone, especially if you’re interested in historical context.

The entire experience lasts roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, which is a manageable chunk of time for most travelers. Tour size is capped at 35 people, and groups of 4 or more receive audio headsets, ensuring everyone can hear the guide clearly—even in bustling areas. The tour operates in English and relies on licensed guides, so expect accurate, engaging storytelling.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with many praising the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Davor, for example, is called “a fantastic and engaging guide,” with travelers noting how he kept both adults and children interested. Several mention that guides shared not only historical facts but also local tips and food recommendations, making the experience more rounded.

Some reviews point out that the tour involves a lot of walking and stairs, so it might be tough in hot weather or for those with mobility concerns. But overall, most find it to be a worthwhile, enriching way to spend a few hours in Dubrovnik.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced view of Dubrovnik’s history, architecture, and scenery without complicating logistics. If you’re eager to learn the stories behind Dubrovnik’s landmarks and enjoy spectacular sea views, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those on a tight schedule, since it packs a lot into a manageable amount of time.

If you’re traveling with family members who are comfortable with walking and stairs, it’s a great way to keep everyone engaged. But if you have mobility issues or prefer not to walk long distances or climb stairs, you might want to consider other options or plan to do parts of the tour independently.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik Combo Tour offers real value and a well-rounded introduction to the city. The blend of walking through the Old Town and walking atop the historic city walls allows you to see Dubrovnik from different angles—ground level and sky-high. The guides’ passion and knowledge add a lot to the storytelling, making history come alive.

It’s a tour that suits curious travelers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a snapshot of Dubrovnik’s most notable sights. Be prepared for walking, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water—especially if visiting during the warmer months. With positive reviews and a competitive price, this experience is a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for this beautiful city.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, many reviews suggest it’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable walking and climbing stairs. Children who can manage the physical aspects will likely enjoy the views and stories.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including walking through Old Town and on the city walls.

Are entrance fees to the city walls included?
No, the €40 city walls fee is separate. You can buy tickets onsite, or consider pre-purchasing if available.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 35 travelers, with groups of 4+ enjoying the benefit of audio headsets for better guide communication.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the guide speaks English, and audio headsets are provided for larger groups.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Bring water during hot days, and be prepared for some stairs and uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Does the tour go inside any buildings?
No, the tour mainly involves walking and sightseeing from the outside. For interior visits, separate tickets are required.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility concerns?
It involves quite a bit of walking and stairs, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Dubrovnik Walks’ meeting point on Brsalje ul. 8 and ends near the Old Town port, making it convenient for continuing your exploration.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic introduction to Dubrovnik, this combo tour could be just the thing. It strikes a good balance between history, views, and practical walking, all delivered by passionate guides who love sharing their city.