Private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, the Private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour promises an intimate and informative experience of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to learn and see Dubrovnik at their own pace.

What immediately stands out are the personalized attention from guides and the opportunity to explore at your leisure—two elements that really elevate this experience from a typical group walk. Plus, with a focus on iconic sights like the Ancient City Walls and Game of Thrones filming locations, it offers a mix of history, pop culture, and stunning views.

That said, it’s worth mentioning the price—$77.93 per person—but when you factor in the private guide and the custom experience, many find it to be a good value. One consideration is the physical aspect—the tour involves walking and some steep stairs, which could be a challenge if mobility is an issue. It’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level eager to explore a compact, historic city with plenty of stories to uncover.

This tour is a fantastic pick for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, or travelers who appreciate personalized experiences. If you want to see Dubrovnik’s most iconic sites without the rush of a big group, and enjoy engaging commentary tailored just for your party, this tour will likely check all the boxes.

Key Points

• Private guide ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Inclusive stops include famous sites like Lovrjenac Fortress and the cathedral.
• Stunning views from the walls and city vantage points are a highlight.
• Walking tour involves some steep stairs and physical exertion.
• Game of Thrones fans will love the filming location insights.
• Good value for a tailored experience, despite the ticket cost.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

An Intimate Look at Dubrovnik’s Historic Walls and Old Town

This tour, typically lasting about 3 hours and 30 minutes, offers a chance to explore Dubrovnik’s well-preserved city walls and the charming streets of the Old Town at your own pace. The private guide means you won’t be part of a large crowd, giving you ample opportunity to ask questions and linger at points of interest.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lovrjenac Fortress
Your journey begins at this spectacular fortress, perched on a 30-meter-high rock. Built to defend the city, Lovrjenac is visually striking and historically significant. Admission is free, so you can take in the views without extra cost. Travelers often rave about this as a top photo spot and a great introduction to Dubrovnik’s defensive architecture.

Stop 2: Dubrovnik City Walls
The core of the experience involves walking along the 1,940-meter-long city walls, which is the highlight for many visitors. These walls are among the best-preserved in the world, with six fortresses—Lovrijenac, Revelin, Mineta, Bokar, St. John, and St. Lucas—protecting the city. While the entrance fee isn’t included in the tour, many guests find the views and stories worth the extra cost of $40 per person.

Walking along the walls offers panoramic views of the Old Town, the Adriatic sea, and surrounding islands. Expect some steep sections and stairs—reviewers mention needing a moderate level of fitness—and prepare for some sun, especially in summer.

Stop 3: Stradun or Placa
This is Dubrovnik’s most iconic street, lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops. It’s the perfect place to soak in local atmosphere and hear stories only locals know. Your guide will share insights about the street’s significance and its role in the city’s life.

Stop 4: Luza Square
Here, the Orlando’s Column stands tall, and the Sponza Palace and St. Blasius Church frame the square. This bustling area is a hub of activity and history, often cited as a favorite spot for visitors.

Stop 5: The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Besides its architectural beauty, the cathedral is linked to a fascinating legend involving King Richard the Lionheart—a story that adds a layer of intrigue to your visit. The cathedral is a tranquil place to reflect and admire.

Stop 6: Church of St. Ignatius
The tour concludes here, with a chance to see the Jesuit Stairs, famous for scenes in Game of Thrones. This stop combines religious art and pop culture, illustrating the city’s layered history.

The Guide and Personal Experience

The reviews consistently mention knowledgeable guides like Boris and Mateo, who make the history engaging and share insider tips. One reviewer praised Boris for his enthusiasm and ability to keep the group interested, even in hot weather. Another appreciated Mateo’s patience with older family members.

Some travelers highlight the importance of early start times to avoid crowds, and many emphasize how the personal attention of a private guide enhances the experience—it’s not just about ticking off sights but about understanding their stories.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Physical Considerations

At $77.93 per person, this private tour might seem a bit pricey compared to group options. However, considering the undivided attention of a dedicated guide and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, many find it offers good value.

The duration of about 3.5 hours is a manageable chunk of time, allowing you to see key sights without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that walking involves some steep sections and stairs, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

The tour’s meeting point at Brsalje ul. 5 is conveniently located in the Old Town, and it ends at the Church of St. Ignatius, making it easy to continue exploring or grab a bite afterward.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Boris, Mateo, and Anja. One guest called the tour “very informative,” appreciating the historical details and tips about local spots for water, bathrooms, or gelato. Several mention how the views from the walls are incredible, making the steep climb worthwhile.

A few negative reviews note that the hot weather can make walking and stairs more challenging, so coming prepared with water and sun protection is wise. Interestingly, one reviewer had a frustrating experience with a guide not showing up—highlighting the importance of confirming meeting details.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values personalized attention and wants to avoid crowded tours, this private offering is ideal. It’s particularly well-suited for history lovers, GOT fans, or anyone wanting a rundown of Dubrovnik’s highlights with plenty of stories and local insights.

Travelers with moderate fitness levels will appreciate the walking and stairs involved without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, the stairs and walking may be a bit strenuous, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Private Dubrovnik City Walls & City Tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty—all delivered in a personalized format. The chance to ask questions, stop for photos, and learn stories only locals know makes this a rewarding experience. While it’s more costly than group tours, the value lies in the tailored approach and the depth of stories shared by passionate guides.

If you’re looking to truly understand Dubrovnik’s past, see its iconic walls, and enjoy the city with a local’s perspective, this tour should definitely be on your list. Be prepared for some walking and stairs, and try to schedule for early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It involves walking and some steep stairs, so those with mobility concerns might find it challenging. Moderate fitness is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a private English-speaking guide. Entrance fees to the city walls are not included in the price and cost about $40 per person.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon start, allowing flexibility based on your plans.

What if it rains?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a good tour for Game of Thrones fans?
Absolutely. The guide will point out filming locations like the Jesuit Stairs, adding extra fun for fans.

How crowded is Dubrovnik’s Old Town?
Early mornings tend to be less crowded, making the experience more relaxed. The walls can get busy later in the day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is popular and is often booked around 88 days ahead.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor some parts of the experience to your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated look at Dubrovnik’s most famous sights, with the bonus of a guide who’s eager to share stories and local knowledge. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more personal connection to the city’s history and scenery—and who don’t mind a bit of walking. If you’re after an experience that’s flexible, engaging, and packed with stories, this tour is well worth considering.