Private Full-day Dubrovnik and Ston Tour from Split

Exploring Dubrovnik and Ston: A Practical Guide to this Private Full-day Tour

If you’re considering a trip from Split to explore some of Croatia’s most captivating spots, a private full-day Dubrovnik and Ston tour might be just what you need. This experience promises the freedom to set your own pace, enjoy scenic drives, and visit two remarkable locations without the hassle of big group tours. Based on reviews and the offered itinerary, it’s an inviting choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, customizable day out.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the luxury transport—think a clean, comfortable van with WiFi—and the full flexibility it offers. You can tailor your stops, spend more time in the places you love, and skip what doesn’t appeal to you. Plus, the scenic views along the Dalmatian coast are a highlight for many, giving you plenty of photo opportunities and a real sense of the region’s beauty.

One consideration to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included—so you’ll want to budget extra for attractions like the Dubrovnik city walls or the cable car. Also, since this is a private tour, the overall cost might seem high for some, but the personalized service and flexibility often balance that out. This experience seems best suited for travelers who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a tailored day with minimal fuss.

If you’re eager to explore at a comfortable, personalized pace and enjoy stunning vistas with the convenience of door-to-door service, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those who value flexibility and comfort and want to soak in the highlights of Dubrovnik and Ston without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows you to choose which attractions to visit and how long to stay.
• Luxury transportation with WiFi ensures a comfortable and connected journey.
• Scenic countryside views enrich the experience, making the drive as enjoyable as the stops.
• The tour does not include entrance fees, so plan a little extra for things like city walls or cable cars.
• It’s a private experience, offering exclusivity and flexibility for up to 8 people.
• Suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed, tailored day rather than a strict group schedule.

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Private Transport

From the moment you’re picked up in your own luxury van—probably a sleek Mercedes, as reviews mention—you’ll notice the comfort and cleanliness that set this tour apart. The driver, Tatjana, or whomever is your guide for the day, is attentive and ready to accommodate your requests, which is a bonus for those who dislike feeling rushed or shoehorned into a preset schedule. The WiFi on board keeps you connected for sharing photos or checking plans on the go.

The drive from Split to Dubrovnik takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and stops, with scenic views of the Dalmatian countryside. As you travel, you’ll enjoy glimpses of the rugged coastline, olive groves, and small villages—perfect for snapping a few shots or just relaxing with a good playlist.

Stop 1: Walls of Ston – A Fortress Marvel

Our suggested starting point was the Walls of Ston, famously known as the second-largest walls in the world (after the Great Wall of China). These massive fortifications, begun in 1358, were built to protect the salt pans and the region’s strategic importance. The walls stretch for over 5 kilometers, encircling the tiny town of Ston, and are an impressive sight.

While the cost of admission isn’t included (€9.50), many visitors find this worth it for the opportunity to walk along the ramparts and appreciate the engineering and history. The views over the salt pans and surrounding landscape are quietly stunning, with some reviews noting that the walls are an underrated gem.

You can spend about an hour exploring here, taking in the sense of history and panoramic vistas. The tour generally recommends this as a flexible stop—you could linger longer if you’re a history buff or want more photos.

Stop 2: Dubrovnik Old Town and the Walls

Next, the journey continues toward Dubrovnik. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and fortified walls. With around 5 hours scheduled here, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in its atmosphere.

The city walls of Dubrovnik are a highlight—about 1940 meters long with six fortresses—including Lovrijenac and Revelin—that once defended the city from invaders. Walking along the walls offers sweeping views of the red-tile rooftops, the shimmering sea, and distant islands. Despite the extra cost (€20) for the cable car ride, many travelers find the panoramic vistas from above to be well worth it.

Within the old town, you can stroll along the Stradun, the main thoroughfare, and enjoy the vibrant street life. The Church of Saint Blaise, Dubrovnik’s patron saint, is a quick visit and offers a peek into the city’s religious history, and the Rector’s Palace provides insight into Dubrovnik’s political past.

Reviews mention that the tour allows for free time, which helps you explore at your own pace. One traveler highlighted that their guide Tatjana was attentive and even took them for coffee—an unexpected but lovely touch that makes the experience feel more personal.

Optional: Dubrovnik Cable Car

The cable car ride is often recommended for breathtaking views. You’ll ascend to the top of Mount Srđ, where you’ll see Dubrovnik and its myriad islands sprawling out below. The ride takes about two hours including wait time, and the views are noted as “amazing” in reviews. Facilities at the top include cafes and viewing platforms, perfect for a relaxing break before heading back down.

Final Stops: Cultural Highlights

Additional short visits include the Church of Saint Blaise and the Rector’s Palace, both quick but insightful stops that add flavor to your understanding of Dubrovnik’s history.

Practical Aspects and Value

This private tour costs around $596.68 for your group—up to eight people—which, when split, can seem reasonable given the level of comfort and flexibility. The tour’s worth hinges on how much you value a personalized experience. You get private transportation, so you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the ability to customize your stops means you can focus on what interests you most.

Keep in mind, entrance fees aren’t included, so budget about €9.50 for Ston walls and €20 for the Dubrovnik cable car if you choose to go up. This allows you to decide whether each activity is worth it for your group.

Some reviews praise the comfortable, clean van and the attentive driver, making the day more relaxed. One traveler said, “Tatjana drove well and the car was superb (clean, comfy & spacious),” which is a crucial detail for a long day on the road.

When Is This Tour Ideal?

This experience suits travelers who prefer a luxurious, flexible day over a rigid schedule. It’s perfect for those who want to see key highlights at their own pace, enjoy scenic drives, and skip the crowds. It’s also suitable for groups who want a private, curated experience with the added bonus of a driver who can take photos or suggest local eateries.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you’re on a strict budget or looking for a very structured, guided tour with fixed timings, this might not be the best option. Also, if you’re not interested in paying for individual attraction tickets or plan to visit many sites, the extra costs can add up.

The Sum Up

This private full-day Dubrovnik and Ston tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to explore some of Croatia’s most iconic sites without the chaos of large groups. The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to customize your stops, soak in incredible views, and enjoy the journey in style. Travelers who value ease, personalized attention, and scenic beauty will find this experience well worth the price.

It’s an ideal choice for those who want to balance sightseeing with relaxation, especially if they are happy to pay a little extra for the privacy and convenience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply looking to experience Dubrovnik and Ston without the rush, this tour can provide a memorable day tailored just for you.

If you’re comfortable planning a bit of extra time for entrance fees and enjoy a laid-back, upscale approach to sightseeing, this could be your perfect day trip from Split.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, your private transportation in a luxury, air-conditioned van with WiFi is included, along with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

Can I choose which stops to visit during the day?
Absolutely. The tour is fully customizable, so you can decide how much time to spend at each location and whether to skip certain attractions.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees for the attractions like the Dubrovnik city walls or the cable car are not included. You should budget extra for these if you plan to visit.

How long is the drive from Split to Dubrovnik?
The drive typically takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic, with scenic views along the way.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups with children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the private, flexible nature makes it suitable for families who want a relaxed day with personalized stops.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, and get a full refund, making it a low-risk option if your plans change.

Can I do this tour if I want to explore in a specific way?
Yes, the itinerary’s flexibility allows you to tailor your visit according to your interests, whether that’s more time at certain sites or skipping others.

This tour offers a good mix of scenic drives, cultural highlights, and personal freedom—a combination that’s hard to beat for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day from Split.