From Split: Dubrovnik Day Trip incl. Stop in Ston

When you’re planning a trip to Croatia, the thought of visiting both Split and Dubrovnik often comes up—two absolute gems on the Dalmatian coast. This particular tour gets a lot of praise for offering a well-balanced, relaxed way to see Dubrovnik without feeling rushed, especially if you’re limited on time. We’ve looked into it, and it’s worth sharing what makes it tick—and what might be worth considering before booking.

What we love about this experience is how personalized it feels thanks to the small group size, which tends to make the journey more engaging and less cookie-cutter. Plus, the stop in Ston is a real highlight: not just for its impressive fortifications but for tasting some of the best oysters Croatia has to offer. The lack of strict time constraints means you can really soak in each spot at your own pace, which is a rare find on group tours.

A potential consideration is that, despite the relaxed approach, you’ll still be on a tight schedule for some parts of the day. If you’re craving a deep dive into Dubrovnik’s every corner, this might feel a bit more like a taste than a full immersion. That said, if you prefer a comfortably paced overview with local flavor, it’s a good fit.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or worrying about missing key sights. It’s especially good for those who appreciate small groups, local culinary experiences, and a flexible approach to sightseeing.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group size ensures more direct interaction and tailored attention.
• Culinary Highlight: Sampling fresh oysters in Ston adds a flavorful local touch.
• Flexible Itinerary: No strict time limits mean you can explore at your own pace.
• Valuable Stops: The walk along Ston’s historic walls and wine tasting on Peljeac are memorable.
• Breathtaking Views: Dubrovnik’s city walls and old town are stunning and accessible for plenty of photo ops.
• Comfortable Transport: The journey from Split is in a cozy vehicle, making long drives more pleasant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey from Split to Dubrovnik: What to Expect

When you sign up for this day trip, you’re signing up for a scenic ride along the Dalmatian coast, with a few notable stops that add flavor and history to your day. Your guide plays a key role in making everything flow smoothly, sharing insights and making the entire experience more engaging.

Starting with a Scenic Drive

Your day begins with pickup in Split, after which you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle. The drive itself is part of the pleasure. Expect to see the beautiful Adriatic waters shimmering alongside the rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities for quick photo stops if you’re so inclined. It’s a route that offers some of the most iconic views Croatia has to offer—craggy cliffs, shimmering sea, and quaint settlements dotting the landscape.

Stop in Ston – History and Local Flavor

The first major stop is in Ston, a tiny town famous for its enormous defensive wall, which stretches over five kilometers. If you’re into history or architecture, walking along these ramparts is a treat; the views over the water and countryside are spectacular. It’s also a chance to taste fresh oysters, which are farmed locally and cleaned right before your eyes. Several reviews praise this part of the tour, with one reviewer exclaiming how they loved sampling the oysters in a picturesque setting.

This stop isn’t just about food and fortifications. It’s a chance to step back in time and soak in the atmosphere of a small coastal town with centuries of history. Plus, the opportunity to explore the walls yourself gives a sense of the place’s strategic importance in Croatia’s maritime past.

The Peljeac Peninsula and Wine Tasting

After Ston, the journey takes you across the Peljeac Peninsula, a land dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Here, the tour offers a chance to sample local wines—a real highlight for wine lovers. If you’re into trying indigenous grape varieties or just want a refreshing glass with a view, this part of the trip adds a delightful cultural layer. The stops are generally flexible, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

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Approaching Dubrovnik – The City of Walls

As you get closer to your destination, anticipation builds. Dubrovnik is an absolute feast for the eyes—its terracotta rooftops, ancient walls, and historic buildings immediately draw you in. The guide will point out notable landmarks from the vehicle or during a brief walking tour. You’ll see the famous city walls and get a sense of the city’s strategic importance over centuries, from its days as a maritime republic to today’s bustling tourist hub.

Exploring Dubrovnik

Once in Dubrovnik, you’ll have ample free time to explore at your own pace. The itinerary encourages unhurried wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. You can visit Onofrio’s Fountain, stroll down Stradun (the main street), or duck into a cozy café for a coffee or a cold drink.

One of the most memorable experiences here is walking atop the ancient city walls—something many reviews highlight as a must-do. The views of the sea and rooftops are breathtaking from these vantage points, giving you a sense of the city’s medieval defenses and beauty.

Free Time and Personal Exploration

The tour’s flexibility is a big plus. You might choose to linger in the old town, shop for souvenirs, or simply find a spot to sit and watch the world go by. The tour ends with your return to Split in the evening, leaving you with lasting impressions of both the landscape and the charming city of Dubrovnik.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price is transportation in a cozy vehicle, multiple stops (not just sightseeing but also tasting opportunities like oysters and wine), and the guidance of a knowledgeable local team. The small group size means more personalized attention, which many travelers find adds to the experience.

Not included are meals and drinks beyond what’s specified, personal expenses like souvenirs, or any additional activities you decide to pursue on your own in Dubrovnik. This setup is ideal if you want to keep costs predictable and focus on the highlights.

Value for Money

At $580 for a group of up to four, the cost might seem high at first glance. However, considering the personalized service, the multiple stops, tastings, and the comfort of private transport, many agree it offers good value. The reviews reflect satisfaction with the quality of the experience, especially noting the professionalism of the driver and guide, with one reviewer raving about how their driver, Stipe, was “amazing” and “punctual.”

The Authentic Experience: Real Travelers’ Perspectives

One reviewer, Shayna, shared that “Stipe was an amazing driver,” emphasizing how the service enhanced their day. Another, Timothy, called Stipe an “excellent driver and host,” highlighting his knowledge, humor, and friendliness. These personal touches can make a big difference, especially in a day-long trip where the driver is your main point of contact.

The freedom to explore Dubrovnik at your own pace is also appreciated; one guest simply called the experience “Perfect,” indicating that it hits the mark for many travelers seeking a balance of sightseeing and leisure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is well-suited to travelers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive view of Dubrovnik and its surroundings. It’s perfect if you like small-group experiences, local culinary tastings, and scenic drives with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re someone who values unhurried exploration without sacrificing key sights, this tour will serve you well.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer a flexible schedule, as there are no strict time limits—giving you the chance to enjoy each stop fully. If you’re on a tight schedule or only want a quick glance at Dubrovnik, this may not be the best option. Conversely, if you’re after a curated, intimate experience that balances sightseeing with local flavors, this tour ticks those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and scenic stops could make it enjoyable for older children or teenagers. However, younger children might find long drives less engaging, so consider your family’s interests.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English, which makes it accessible for most travelers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility and the option to tailor the experience according to group preferences or interests.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included unless specified. You’ll want to plan to eat either before or after the tour or enjoy whatever dining options you find in Dubrovnik.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

How long is the drive from Split to Dubrovnik?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the journey involves a scenic drive along the coast, with stops along the way.

Is there free time in Dubrovnik?
Yes, there’s ample free time for exploration, shopping, or relaxing at your own pace.

What about the small group size?
With a maximum of four people per group, the experience tends to be more personal and engaging, allowing for easier interaction and customized attention.

Is the pickup and drop-off in Split included?
Yes, transportation from and back to Split is part of the package.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik day trip from Split offers a thoughtfully curated way to see one of Croatia’s most iconic cities without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. With a small group, flexible timing, and memorable stops like Ston and Peljeac, it balances sightseeing with authentic local experiences. The guide’s knowledge and the chance to sample oysters and wine add a special touch that many travelers appreciate.

While it might not cover every nook and cranny of Dubrovnik, it provides a solid overview for those seeking a relaxed, enjoyable day immersed in stunning scenery and historic charm. If you’re someone who values personal attention, scenic drives, and good food along the way, this tour could very well be a highlight of your Dalmatian adventure.

Whether you’re visiting Croatia for the first time or returning to explore further, this trip offers a practical and memorable way to connect with the region’s beauty and history—without feeling rushed or overloaded.

You can check availability for your dates here: