Dubrovnik Shore Excursion: Explore Dubrovnik by Cable Car (ticket included)

Get set for a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Dubrovnik’s top sights in just about three hours. This tour, priced at $83.93 per person, combines breathtaking views from Mount Srd with a detailed walk through Old Town Dubrovnik, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The experience is designed for cruise passengers who want a quick, yet enriching snapshot of the city’s history, landmarks, and scenery. The tour features a round-trip cable car ride included in the price, making it a convenient way to enjoy spectacular panoramic views. While the tour involves moderate walking over cobblestones, it is suitable for most travelers and particularly appealing to those eager to see Dubrovnik’s highlights in a short timeframe.

This excursion has earned an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 108 reviews, emphasizing knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and good value. It offers a balanced mix of scenic experience and cultural insight, making it ideal for visitors with limited time or those seeking an engaging overview of this beautiful Croatian city.

Key Points

• Includes a cable car round-trip ticket to Mount Srd for unmatched views of Dubrovnik and beyond.
• Guided walking tour of Old Town Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering major landmarks like Onofrio’s Fountain, Sponza Palace, and Rector’s Palace.
• Tour departs from Pile Square outside the city walls at 9:00 am, lasting about 3 hours.
• Moderate walking activity over cobblestone streets, with some stairs involved.
• Most reviews highly praise the guides’ knowledge, especially their stories and local insights.
• The tour guarantees timely return to port, with a flexible refund policy if plans change or weather affects the trip.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Dubrovnik

The tour begins at Elite Travel Walking Tours’ meeting point, located at Brsalje ul. 1, Dubrovnik, at 9:00 am. Guests are asked to gather outside the Old Town walls at Pile Square, next to the Amerling fountain and Dubravka 1836 restaurant. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour ends back at the starting location, offering convenience for those with tight schedules or cruise ship departures.

Visiting Mount Srd: The View from 1,352 Feet

One of the tour’s standout features is ascending Mount Srd via the included cable car ticket. The coalition of 412 meters above sea level provides breathtaking views over Dubrovnik’s walled city and the Adriatic Sea. On clear days, visibility extends up to 37 miles into the coastline and neighboring countries. After reaching the summit, travelers get approximately 30 minutes of free time to absorb the scenery, snap photos, or enjoy a drink at the Panorama Restaurant.

The cable car ride itself is a short, 10-minute loop, but the viewpoint at the top offers a truly memorable perspective on the city’s layout and natural surroundings. Several reviews highlight this experience as a highlight of the tour, especially for the spectacular vistas and photo opportunities.

Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town Streets

Returning from Mount Srd, the guided walking tour begins in Old Town Dubrovnik, a walkable area packed with historical landmarks. The guide leads visitors through narrow lanes and spacious plazas, providing stories and context about each site.

The first stop is Onofrio’s Fountain, a large circular water source connected to a 7.5-mile aqueduct. Nearby, the Franciscan Monastery houses a restored Pieta sculpture and one of Europe’s oldest still-functioning pharmacies. Guests learn about the monastery’s history and its significance to Dubrovnik’s cultural fabric.

As the walk continues along the wide limestone Stradun, visitors pass Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, and other landmarks like the Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Church of St Blaise. The guide shares historical anecdotes and stories, bringing each location to life. The Stradun itself is a bustling artery that showcases Dubrovnik’s medieval architecture and lively atmosphere.

Highlights of Dubrovnik’s Historic Sites

The tour’s key landmarks include Sponza Palace, which houses the state archives and features Renaissance architecture, and Rector’s Palace, once the seat of Dubrovnik’s rector. The city’s patron saint, St Blaise, is honored at the Church of St Blaise. Each site offers insight into Dubrovnik’s past, from its medieval defenses to its maritime prestige.

Passersby also see Orlando’s Column, a symbol of civic freedom, and the city walls, which are 12th-century fortifications that still enclose the Old Town. The guide’s commentary adds personal stories and historical facts, enriching the visual experience.

Additional Stops and Optional Exploration

The tour allows some free time at the end of the walking route for personal exploration or a quick rest. While lunch is not included, guests often find nearby cafes and restaurants to relax after the tour. The walk-through of Dubrovnik’s streets generally involves moderate activity and up to 50 steps over uneven cobblestone terrain, so good footwear is recommended.

The Cable Car and Walking Tour: Convenience and Pacing

The round-trip cable car ride is smooth and quick, taking about 10 minutes each way. The upward journey offers panoramic views that are often described as unforgettable. The walk through Old Town is paced to allow enough time to see major sights, with around 1 hour 15 minutes allocated for the walking portion.

The tour is designed for a moderate walking pace, with some stairs and uneven surfaces. It suits most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as long as they are prepared for some cobblestone walking.

Guides: Knowledge, Stories, and Local Insights

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and storytelling ability. Many reviews highlight specific guides like Sara, Tea, Elvis, and Katarina—noted for their passion, local knowledge, and personal stories. Their ability to manage crowds, weather, and diverse interests makes the experience more engaging and informative.

Guests appreciate guides who share anecdotes about Dubrovnik’s history, personal experiences, and recommendations for restaurants and activities. This personal touch elevates the overall experience and helps visitors connect more deeply with the city.

Managing Weather and Unexpected Changes

While most reviews reflect positive experiences, some mention delays or weather issues such as heavy rain preventing the walking tour. The tour provider offers rescheduling or refunds if weather disrupts plans, ensuring peace of mind. The cable car ride is occasionally affected by weather, but the guides adapt with alternative sightseeing if necessary.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

Priced at $83.93 per person, the tour offers good value for the combination of scenic ride and guided walk. Booking includes a mobile ticket and worry-free guarantee—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if plans change or weather worsens.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This 3-hour excursion is perfect for cruise passengers seeking a quick but enriching taste of Dubrovnik. It is ideal for those interested in scenic views, historic sites, and guided storytelling. Travelers comfortable with moderate walking and cobblestone streets will find it manageable, while those with mobility challenges should be prepared for some stairs.

Final Thoughts on the Dubrovnik Cable Car and Old Town Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Dubrovnik’s visual beauty and historic charm in a short timeframe. The included cable car ride is a highlight, providing spectacular panoramic views. The guided walk through Old Town’s landmarks adds depth and context, making the experience both scenic and educational.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it delivers excellent value for the key sights and spectacular vistas. The high praise for guides and the positive reviews about the views and storytelling suggest it’s a reliable choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, the tour involves moderate walking with some stairs, but most travelers can participate. Be prepared for cobblestone streets.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a guided walking tour, round-trip cable car tickets, and local guide service.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The provider offers a worry-free guarantee.

What are the main sights visited during the walking tour?
Highlights include Onofrio’s Fountain, Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Church of St Blaise.

How long is the cable car ride?
The round-trip cable car takes about 10 minutes each way, with free time at the top to enjoy the views.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions prevent safe operation of the cable car or outdoor activities.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at Brsalje ul. 1, the starting point, ensuring easy access to other parts of Dubrovnik or your cruise ship.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are options available at the summit and around Old Town.