Top Tips for Exploring the Wall of Ston, Croatia

Nestled on the Pelješac Peninsula, less than an hour from Dubrovnik, the UNESCO Heritage town of Ston is a hidden gem of Croatia that should be on your Croatia travel list. Ston is known for its ancient defensive walls, salt pans, and Mali Ston’s oysters. For Game of Thrones fans, the wall of Ston was used for the filming of the fortifications of King’s Landing. Whether you plan a day trip from Dubrovnik or a longer stay in Ston, this charming town is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and seafood lovers. Here is your ultimate guide to walking the Wall of Ston Croatia, including its history, tips, and other top things to see in town.

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Is Ston in Croatia Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Here is why Ston is worth visiting:

1. History: Ston and its neighbor Mali Ston are collectively a UNESCO Heritage Site, due to the rich historical significance of the walls connecting the towns, the ancient salt pans, and the medieval architecture.
2. Panoramic Views: The views from the walls over the salt pans and the towns of Ston and Mali Ston are gorgeous.
3. Cuisine: Mali Ston is famous for its fresh oysters. Don’t miss the chance to sample these delicacies at an oyster farm or in local restaurants, such as Kapetanova kuca.
4. Quiet Charm: Unlike nearby Dubrovnik, Ston is more tranquil, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

History of the Wall of Ston Croatia

Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, the Wall of Ston Croatia is often referred to as the “European Great Wall.” Today the wall is about 5.5 kilometers long, making it the 2nd longest complete fortress in the world (2nd only to the Great Wall of China). The wall of Ston connects the towns of Ston and Mali Ston. The wall originally had 40 towers and 5 fortresses, though only 20 of the towers remain today.

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Why Was the Wall of Ston Built?

The Republic of Ragusa (modern-day Dubrovnik) built the wall of Ston with 2 primary purposes. The first was to protect the valuable salt pans of Ston, which were a source of wealth for the republic. The salt pans of Ston are among the oldest in Europe, and their production was essential for trade and preserving food. The second reason for the wall was to protect the town of Ston and the strategic Pelješac Peninsula, ultimately protecting the security of Dubrovnik itself.

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Tips for Visiting the Wall of Ston Croatia

How to Access the Ston Wall?

The Wall of Ston can be accessed from two main points: Ston and Mali Ston. Here’s how to get started:

1. Access from Ston: The main entrance to the wall is located near the center of Ston, close to the salt pans. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance booth. From this point, you can choose to climb towards Mali Ston or explore the shorter segments of the wall around town.
2. Access from Mali Ston: In Mali Ston, the entrance to the wall is located near the waterfront. This route allows you to start your journey with views of the harbor and gradually climb toward Ston.

Pro tip: We enjoyed starting in Mali Ston, walking uphill to Ston. Watching the town slowly come into sight, and seeing the spectacular views over the salt pans was a highlight of this walk for us. You can choose to finish walking around the wall (back down the hill) to the starting point, or you can take a walking path that parallels the road between the 2 towns.

Access Fees: Tickets for the Wall of Ston cost approximately 10 Euros for adults and 5 Euros for children. Be sure to check for any updates on pricing before your visit.

How Long Does It Take to Walk the Wall of Ston?

The full walk around the wall of Ston takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make to admire the scenery.

Pro trip: The route includes steep climbs and uneven steps, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The path along the wall is between 5 and 10 meters off the ground. Those with a fear of heights may not enjoy this experience.

If you’re short on time, you can opt to walk shorter sections of the wall, such as the stretch around Ston. Or, walk from Mali Ston to Ston, catching a taxi back to your starting point.

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Beyond the Wall: Top Things to See in Ston

While the Wall of Ston is the main attraction, the town and its surroundings have much more to offer. Here are some additional sights you shouldn’t miss:

1. Mali Ston: A charming neighboring village known for its oyster farms. Stroll along its harbor, enjoy fresh seafood, or take a boat tour to learn about oyster cultivation.
2. Ston Saltworks: Visit one of the oldest operating salt pans in the world, where you can learn about the traditional methods of salt production that date back centuries. Bags of Ston’s salt make great souvenirs.
3. St. Blaise’s Church: This small but beautiful church in the heart of Ston is dedicated to Dubrovnik’s patron saint.
4. Ston Cathedral (Church of St. Nicholas): This historic cathedral is a serene place to visit.
5. Local Wineries: The Pelješac Peninsula is famous for its wine, particularly the Plavac Mali variety. If you’re driving, consider a stop at Winery Škurla for a tour and tasting.
6. Ston’s Market: Explore the local market to pick up fresh produce, local olive oil, and handmade souvenirs.

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How to Get from Dubrovnik to Ston

Ston is conveniently located just 54 kilometers from Dubrovnik, making it an ideal day trip destination. Here are the best ways to get there:

1. By Car: Driving from Dubrovnik to Ston takes about an hour. The scenic route along the Adriatic coastline is breathtaking, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Get the best deal on your car rental with our Europe Car Rental Travel Tips.
2. By Bus: Regular buses run between Dubrovnik and Ston, with a journey time of approximately 1-1.5 hours.
3. By Tour: Many organized tours from Dubrovnik include Ston as a stop, often combined with wine tastings on the Pelješac Peninsula or visits to Mali Ston.

For those wanting to visit from Split, it is roughly 195 km from Ston. It’s typically a 2 hour drive or just under a 3 hour bus ride. A number of tours from Split to Dubrovnik include a stop in Ston.

Top Tours from Dubrovnik and Split to Ston

• Pelješac Full-Day Wine and Food Tour from Dubrovnik: Top rated wine and food tour from Dubrovnik, including a stop at Ston as well as 3 wineries and a family-owned oyster farm.
• Dubrovnik Oyster, Mussles, and Wine Tasting Tour in Ston: Top rated half-day tour from Dubrovnik to Ston. This includes a boat ride on Little Ston Bay, enjoying the mussels and oysters from the bay, along with local wine. You will then have time to explore Ston and its Wall.
• From Split & Trogir: Dubrovnik Guided Day Tour: this top-rated full day tour includes transfer from Split or Trogir, 5 hours in Dubrovnik including a guided tour and free time, and a 30 minute stop in Ston, before returning to Split/Trogir.

Best Time to Visit Ston

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during the Summer. The non-Summer months are ideal for visiting Ston and the coast of Croatia, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Keep in mind that there is virtually no shade on the wall itself.

Where to Stay in Ston

Rooms&Apartments Tomić in Ston is ideal for those looking for an air conditioned stay right in the heart of old town. Located in a renovated 16th century building, the Wall is just a 4 minute walk away. For a waterfront stay in a renovated historic building in Mali Ston, Hotel Ostrea is a wonderful choice.

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Final Thoughts on Visiting the Wall of Ston, Croatia

The Wall of Ston is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of medieval fortifications. With its stunning views, rich history, and incredible seafood and wine, Ston deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Many people combine a trip to Ston with a tour of there Pelješac Peninsula. In addition to the many wineries, you’ll find one of our favorite (and challenging) hikes on the peninsula, Sveti Ilija, which starts at the ancient town of Granja Nakovana and has stunning views over Korčula.

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