4 Ways To Get To Mount Srd, Dubrovnik: Cable Car, Hike, Bus, Tour

Mount Srd sharply rises above the Old City in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The craggy mountain is capped with a large fortress, an enormous cross (both of which are visible from sea level), a Croatian war museum and a Dubrovnik panoramic restaurant.

From the top of Mt. Srd, visitors are treated to a stunning 360-degree view of Dubrovnik that is simply breath-taking. Guests can spend a blissful day soaking in the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and the most famous historic city in Croatia.

The Mt. Srd Dubrovnik viewpoint stretches over the turquoise Mediterranean waters to the west, across Croatia’s border with Bosnia to the east and Montenegro to the south. Ascending Srd Hill is one of the top things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia and there are 4 convenient ways to get to there: Dubrovnik Cable Car, Mt. Srd hiking trail, vehicle (local bus or car) or organized tour.

 

Mount Srd Dubrovnik History and Details

Mt. Srd Croatia is a Dubrovnik Must-See! Part of the Dinaric Alps mountain range, Srd rises to a height of 1,352 feet, overlooking the picturesque Pearl of the Adriatic and Dalmatia coastline. On clear days, the panoramic view extends over the islands that dot the Adriatic Sea, allowing visitors to see 35 miles away to the Elafiti Islands.

However, it’s not just the stunning views that entice visitors to soar to the summit; Mt. Srd has long protected Dubrovnik from invaders. Most recently, in the 1990s, the mountain played a strategic part in the Croatian War of Independence (also known as the Homeland War) and the 8 month long Siege of Dubrovnik.

To help other travelers plan their excursion to the top of the famous Dubrovnik hill, we are sharing all of the specific details – from getting there to what to do at the top of Mt. Srd to answering a few FAQs.

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How To Get to the Top of Srd Hill Dubrovnik

There are four popular ways to get to the top of Dubrovnik Mount Srd: The Mount Srd Cable Car, Dubrovnik hiking trails, local city bus and organized tour.

 

#1 DUBROVNIK CABLE CAR

Mount Srd is easily accessible by the Dubrovnik Cable Car (which is also referred to as the seilbahn, gondola, funicular, chair lift and ropeway). The Dubrovnik Cable Car Station sits just outside the city walls – and the ride to the summit of Mt. Srd is just a swift 3-minute journey.  

The first Dubrovnik Cable Car to the summit was built in 1969, however, it was destroyed in the early 1990s during the Homeland War. In 2010, the cable car was rebuilt, providing the quickest and easiest route to the summit.

After purchasing tickets, visitors hop into the modern cable car for the ride up. We suggest securing a spot by the rear window if possible so that you can watch the city shrink as you are whisked to the mountaintop. From the Upper Srd Cable Car Station, all summit attractions are accessible on foot, including the restaurant, viewing decks, cross, fort and museum.

The cable car ride is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik (it ranks as the second-most popular activity in the city after the Dubrovnik Walls). However, there are only two cars, each of which can only carry up to 30 passengers at a time. As such, during the peak Croatia tourist season there will likely be long lines – especially between 9am and 11am, when it is busiest.

 

Dubrovnik Cable Car Price

The listed Dubrovnik Cable Car cost is current for 2024

Adult:  Roundtrip Mount Srd Cable Car Price – 27 Euro; One Way – 15 Euro

Child (4-12 years): Roundtrip Cable Car to Mount Srd: 7 Euro; One Way – 4 Euro

Child (0-4 years): Free

Dubrovnik Cable Car tickets can be purchased at the lower station with cash (local currency only) or credit card. Or you can purchase tickets in advance on Viator.

 

Dubrovnik Cable Car Opening Times 2024

The Dubrovnik cable car hours vary by month and in the case of high winds and/or lightning, the cable car will temporarily halt operations.

• January, February: CLOSED
• March: 9am to 5pm
• April: 9am to 9pm
• May: 9am to 11pm
• June, July, August: 9am to Midnight
• September: 9am to 11pm
• October: 9am to 8pm
• November: CLOSED
• December: CLOSED

 

Cable Car Station Dubrovnik Location

The Dubrovnik Cable Car Station is located at Ulica Kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 20000, Dubrovnik. You can get directions using this pin drop. The station is just a short walk from the Old Town or a quick ride on Bus 8 from the main Dubrovnik bus station at Port Gruz.

 

#2 HIKING DUBROVNIK: Mt. Srd Trail

Hiking around Dubrovnik is one of our favorite activities…and the Mount Srd walk is one of the more strenuous – and rewarding! – hikes in town. The trail begins above Dubrovnik’s orange, tiled rooftops in a forest of evergreens then emerges onto the open hillside where a path of lengthy switchbacks leads to the summit.

 

Mount Srd Hiking Trail: Distance and Time

The Mount Srd walk from the trailhead to the summit is less than 1.5 miles. However, the uphill trail makes the climb feel much longer.

Google Maps says the hike should only take about 30 minutes, but unless you aren’t planning on stopping for photos and to catch your breath, we suggest allowing about an hour to get to the top. That said, how long it takes to walk up Mount Srd will depend on your fitness level and desired pace. 

 

Climbing Dubrovnik Mt. Srd

The dirt path of the Mount Srd hike begins in the forest. Tall evergreen trees provide shade from the sun and blocks the noise of the road below. The scent of earth and fresh blossoms hang heavy in the air. Being completely surrounded in nature provides a peaceful start to the Mt. Srd hike.

When the trail emerges from the forest, the footpath changes from a dirt path to a gravel track. The long switchbacks can clearly be seen zigzagging up the side of the mountain.

At each hairpin turn there is an artistic display of one of the 14 Stations of the Cross and wooden crosses are placed along the path, as well. The path is used for pilgrimages to the white cross on top of the hill during religious celebrations.

Portions of the trail are fairly easy to walk on, allowing hikers to gaze down at the Adriatic Sea and the historic city of Dubrovnik, just keep an eye out for loose stones! With the shifting perspectives and the changing light, we were stopping every few minutes to snap more photos.

 

How To Get To The Mt. Srd Trailhead

The famous Dubrovnik hike trailhead is located northwest of the Old Town, across the main road, Jadranska Cesta. There are numerous routes that will lead to the trailhead.

From the Pile Gate, you can follow these walking directions on Google Maps. Note: The trailhead is across the street from the end marker on the map. Unfortunately, Google Maps does not recognize the staircase that connects Stolacka Ulica to Jadranska Cesta. 

 

Hiking Dubrovnik, Croatia: What You Will Need

You need to be prepared when hiking in Dubrovnik, Croatia! While the walk up Mount Srd is not particularly lengthy, hiking Mount Srd Dubrovnik does require some preparation. 

Walking Shoes – Make sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes to make this trek – save the flip flops for the Dubrovnik beaches! Besides the incline, there are loose rocks on the trail that require decent shoes to get to the top. I like these shoes by Columbia and Kris prefers these by Merrell.

Water – Bring plenty of water with you. There are no refilling stations along the way – and much of the trail is exposed to the sun. A collapsible water bottle is ideal for travelers.

Sunscreen and Hat – The sun is strong in Croatia! Be sure to slather on the sunscreen and bring a wide-brimmed hat for extra sun protection when you hike Dubrovnik trails.

Walking Poles and Day Pack – If you have hiking poles, bring them! Both the uphill and downhill climb is easier with a little stability! You’ll also want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items.

Travel Camera – Don’t forget your favorite travel camera! The views from the hike are absolutely mesmerizing – and you will want to capture the sight. We use a Canon Rebel, but it can be a bit bulky for hikes. The slim Canon Powershot is a good, lightweight budget camera that takes quality photos. 

Travel Insurance – Find rates for your trip to Croatia on World Nomads.

 

#3 VEHICLE: TAXI, CAR OR DUBROVNIK BUS 17 TO MOUNT SRD

Travelers who don’t want to hike Mount Srd or take the cable car can instead opt to use a vehicle to get to the summit. Options for vehicle transport to Mt Srd Dubrovnik are taxi, car or bus. 

 

Dubrovnik Taxi Hire

Just want a ride to the top? Visitors can hire a taxi from the Old Town to the top of Mt Srd. We heard it costs about 40 euros, but it will depend on what you are asking the driver to do. Ask for approximate rates before getting in and convey to the driver what you expect (regarding waiting times, stops for photos, etc). Uber was also available at the time of our visit to Croatia.

 

Self Drive to Mount Srd

If you have rented a car for your Croatia trip, you can just drive yourself! Just be aware that while it is a scenic drive on a paved road, it can be trying. Steep inclines, narrow passages and winding roads all contribute to the challenges. That said, once at the top, there is plenty of Mount Srd parking spaces – and they are free. 

 

Mount Srd Bus

Another way to get close to the top of Mt. Srd is via local Bus #17. The bus to Mount Srd doesn’t go all the way to the summit, but to the mountain town of Bosanka. From there, it is just a short uphill trek to the Mount Srd summit (with incredible viewpoints along the way!).

The ride is less expensive than the cable car and a lot less difficult than the hike up from the Dubrovnik Old Town. The bonus: the views from the bus are amazing. The bus route slowly climbs the mountain to the east of town, allowing for spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea (sit on the right side of the bus for the best scenery). Once inland, there are mountain views to the north as the bus travels through small villages to Bosanka.

 

Dubrovnik Bus 17 Details

The bus departs from Pile Gate at the small median in the center of the road across from the ticket booth. It takes about 25 minutes to get from Pile Gate to Bosanka. Note: Bus times and prices current as of 2024. Check the official bus website for the most current information. 

 

Dubrovnik Bus Tickets

Tickets can be purchased on the bus by contactless card for 1.99 Euro. Additionally, there is an All-Day Ticket available for 5.30 Euro, which can only be purchased from the official ticket booth (at Pile Gate or Gruz Port). If you plan on riding more than 3 buses in one day, the All-Day Ticket is the best option.

 

Dubrovnik Bus 17 Timetable 2024

Departing Pile Gate: 10:30am, 11:00am (Sat only), 11:40am, 12:35pm, 1:35pm,  2:35pm, 4:35pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm and 08:30pm

Departing Bosanka: 07:15am, 8:30am (Sat only), 11:00am, 12:05pm, 1:05pm, 2:05pm, 3:15pm, 5:10pm, 07:00pm and 08:00pm

*No service on Sunday and Holidays.

 

BONUS: UP ONE WAY, DOWN ANOTHER

Rather than opting for a roundtrip ride or trek up Mt. Srd, visitors can choose to use one method to get to the top and another to get back down the mountain. We have taken both the cable car and the bus and then walked back down on the trail. It’s actually our favorite way to experience Mount Srd…and it’s more affordable than paying for a ride both ways!

 

Dubrovnik Cable Car Walk Down Combo

The cost of the Dubrovnik Cable Car increases each year. To save a little bit of money, but still get the experience, consider buying a one-way ticket for a Combination Dubrovnik Cable Car Hike. Ride the Srd Mountain cable car up, visit the sights at the summit, take in the aerial view of Dubrovnik, then enjoy a leisurely hike down the switchbacks to the city.

 

Ride Bus or Taxi Up and Hike Down

A one-way ride up works with Bus 17 or a taxi, as well. Ride a taxi direct to the summit or take the bus to Bosanka and walk to the summit. After spending time at the top, follow the Mount Srd trail back down. 

Read our other tips for Dubrovnik On A Budget!

 

#4 ORGANIZED DUBROVNIK TOUR

Visitors who are short on time or would rather a professional guide lead the way have a few options for organized tours to the Mount Srd summit.

 

Dubrovnik Panorama Tour

The Panorama Tour is ideal for travelers who have limited time in Dubrovnik. Journey with a guide in an air-conditioned vehicle on a quick (but efficient!) 1.5-hour tour. See top sights, like the Imperial Fort on Mt. Srd, the Franjo Tudman Bridge and the River Ombla Spring. Get the details!

 

Panorama Zipline Dubrovnik Experience

A zipline tour experience is an adventurous way to visit the top of Srd Mountain in Dubrovnik. The tour begins near the Old Town and vehicle transportation is provided to the summit. At the top, tour participants ride two adrenaline fueled zip lines while taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Both day tours and sunset tours are offered. 

 

Combo Tour: Cable Car and City Walk

Designed as a shore excursion for Dubrovnik cruise passengers, the Combo Cable Car and City Walk tour delivers the best of the city in just 3 hours. Ride the cable car to the summit, where you have an hour to explore and take in the views. Then follow your guide through the Old Town and learn about the history of the iconic walled city. Find out more!

 

Super Saver: Cable Car, City Walls, Walking Tour

Join a guided tour of three of the top attractions: Cable Car, City Walls and Old Town Walking Tour. The half-day tour is led by a local guide who will give you personal insight along with historic information. Check the price!

 

Dubrovnik Cable Car Ride and Mount Srd Buggy Safari

Ride the cable car to the Mt. Srd summit then hop into a dune buggy for a ride through the countryside. Get a look at small villages, the coastline and forests while a professional guide navigates the buggy to the best spots! Book it now!

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Dubrovnik Mountain Things To Do

Getting to the top of Mt. Srd Dubrovnik is only part of the fun – as there are many things to do once you reach the summit!

 

Panorama Restaurant Dubrovnik

The tiered Panorama Dubrovnik Restaurant has the best views of any restaurant in the city! The fine-dining restaurant menu features local cuisine and a range of beverages (you can just go for a drink).

Guests can find Panorama next to the Upper Cable Car Station. The opening hours are typically the same as the Dubrovnik Cable Car timetable. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating – but it’s best to reserve ahead of time to ensure you get a seat with a view! 

 

Fort Imperial (Imperial Fortress Dubrovnik)

Dubrovnik Fort Imperial – or Emperor’s Fort – was built from 1806-1812 under Napoleon’s rule. In the mid-1800s, the Austrians (the ruling empire of the region at the time), expanded the fortress as defense against the Ottoman Empire.

During the Homeland War, which involved Serbia, Montenegro and Croatia and lasted from 1991 until 1995, the fort was used by Croatians to defend Dubrovnik.

 

Croatian Homeland War Museum Dubrovnik

Housed inside the fort is the Homeland War Museum. One of the best museums in Dubrovnik, Croatia, the war museum is dedicated to the history of the fort and recent war. Displays chronicle the Serbian-Montenegrin attack on Dubrovnik, the Croatian Army victory and the effects of war on Dubrovnik and its residents.

 

White Stone Mt. Srd Cross

In 1935, the Archdiocese of Brac Island gifted the white stone cross to Dubrovnik. The cross, which is made from Brac Island’s famous stone, stood on the hill until 1991 when it was also destroyed in the Homeland War. The platform remained intact and a new cross was raised after the war; visitors can see the difference in the original stone and new cross.

 

Dubrovnik Views from Mount Srd, Croatia

From the top of Mt. Srd there are numerous Dubrovnik lookout spots – and we highly recommend visitors seek out the different viewpoints. At the cable car station, there are platforms with binoculars, which provide good views, but not the best Dubrovnik views!

We think the best viewpoints from Mount Srd are on either side of the cable car complex – past the cross to one side and past the fort on the other side. Both areas feature vast open land and completely unobstructed views of Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island and the Adriatic Sea.

Looking inland views can stretch beyond Croatia’s borders to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro. It’s clear to see why Mount Srd was such a strategic location when the three countries were at war.

 

Dubrovnik Picnic Lunch

One of the best ways to soak in the 360-degree views of Croatia’s coastline and the hills of BiH and Montenegro is to linger a picnic lunch. Stop at a local market or bakery before ascending the hill and find your perfect picnic spot!

 

Mount Srd Sunset

Mt Srd is a fantastic Dubrovnik observation point for watching the sunset. From the elevated vantage point, you can watch the sun sink into the horizon. 

That said, we personally don’t recommend making the Mt Srd hike down in the dark. No worries, though – Cable Car Dubrovnik transports passengers until well after dark in the summertime. Trekkers can still make the Mount Srd hike up and then take the gondola down…or simply ride both ways. 

See All Our Favorite Dubrovnik Viewpoints for Stellar Sunsets!

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Dubrovnik Srd Mountain FAQs

Now that you know how to get there and what to do when you do, we have a few more tips to share before ascending to the top of Mount Srd in Dubrovnik, Croatia. 

 

What is the Correct Mount Srd Pronunciation? 

Many tourists pronounce Mount Srd at Mount Serd (rhyming with curd or word). However, the D in Srd is actually the letter đ (a d with a line through it) in the Croatian alphabet. The đ in Croatian is pronounced like the letter J in the Latin alphabet. 

Therefore, the correct pronunciation of Mount Srđ is Mount Surge (similar to the beginning of the word, surgery) or Mount Serdge.

 

Are there Alternate Mount Srd Spellings? 

While the truly correct spelling is Mount Srđ, because there is no đ on a Latin alphabet keyboard, the word is typically just spelled Srd (as we have throughout this blog post). However, it is sometimes spelled Mount Srdj or phonetically as Serdge. Additionally, it is sometimes called Srdj Hill (but if you opt to climb it, the ‘hill’ certainly feels like a mountain!). 

 

How High is Mount Srd? 

Mount Srd has an elevation of 412 meters, which is 1,352 feet. However, with so many ways to reach the top, all travelers can enjoy going to the summit of Srd Mountain Dubrovnik. 

 

Is Going to the Top of Mount Srd Worth It? 

Absolutely! We have made our way to the Mt Srd summit several times, and the views never disappoint! We 100% recommend including Mount Srd in your Dubrovnik travel plans. 

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Dubrovnik Travel Tips

Going to the Srd summit – whether by Dubrovnik gondola, the Mount Srd trail or by vehicle – is only one of the many fantastic things to do in Dubrovnik on your trip. In addition to riding, driving or hiking Mount Srd Dubrovnik, we have heaps of other tips for what to do in the city. 

Our guide of What To Do in Dubrovnik features the absolute must-see sights and our best tips for planning your trip. In addition to sightseeing and attractions, we include advice on where to stay and what to pack. Use our comprehensive article to plan your entire trip to Dubrovnik! 

Visiting other Top Croatia Destinations? We highlight the top places to visit and things to do in our robust Guide to Planning a Vacation to Croatia – including need-to-know details and our insider tips. 

As you make your plans, staying organized is key. Make sure nothing slips through the cracks by using a travel planner. Our Trip Planning Printables are perfect for organizing your Croatia travel plans!

 

Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

Looking to take a Dubrovnik Day Trip? Check out our complete guide to the Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik!

 

 

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