Mount Srd sharply rises above the Old City in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The craggy mountain is capped with a large fortress, an enormous cross, 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.
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The Mt. Srd Dubrovnik viewpoint stretches over the turquoise 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.
About Mount Srd Dubrovnik
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, 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.
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.
How To Get to the Top of Srd Hill Dubrovnik
As we mentioned, there are four popular ways to get to the top of Dubrovnik Mt Srd. Riding the Mount Srd Cable Car, setting off on Dubrovnik hiking trails, catching a ride (either by car or on the local bus) or booking an organized tour.
To help fellow travelers plan their excursion to the top of the famous Dubrovnik hill, we break down all four options, along with specific details about each. Then we’ll leave it to you to decide which works best for your Vacation to Croatia!
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#1 Dubrovnik Cable Car
Mount Srd is easily accessible by the Dubrovnik Cable Car (also referred to as the seilbahn, gondola, funicular, chair lift and ropeway).
The Dubrovnik Cable Car Station location (MAP) sits just outside the city walls – and the ride to the summit of Mt. Srd is a swift 3-minute journey.
After purchasing tickets, 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 32 passengers at a time. During the peak summer Croatia tourist season there will likely be long lines – especially between 9am and 11am.
Dubrovnik Cable Car Price 2025
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.
Dubrovnik Cable Car Opening Times
The Dubrovnik Cable Car hours vary by month and season; the Mt Srd opening date for 2025 is March 15th. In the case of high winds and/or lightning, operations will halt.
- 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 9pm
- November: 9am to 5pm
- December: CLOSED
#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 the path emerges onto the open hillside, where a set 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. 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 your Mt. Srd hike.
When the trail emerges from the forest, the footpath changes from dirt 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 route 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!
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 Magistrala. From the Pile Gate it takes about 20 minutes following these walking directions.
Hiking Dubrovnik: What You Will Need
You want to be prepared when hiking in Dubrovnik, Croatia! While the walk up is not particularly lengthy, hiking Mount Srd does require some preparation.
Walking Shoes – Make sure to wear durable travel shoes to make this trek – save the flip flops for Dubrovnik’s Best Beaches! I wore these trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes
Water – Bring plenty of water with you. There are no refilling stations along the way – and much of the trail is exposed. This 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 protection when you hike Dubrovnik trails.
Walking Poles and Day Pack – If you have hiking poles, bring them! The terrain is easier with a exrtra stability. You’ll also want a great day bag to organize all of your everyday items.
Travel Camera – Don’t forget your favorite camera! The views from the hike are an absolutely mesmerizing sight. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18/135mm lens.
Trip Insurance – Hey, you never know! Find rates for your holiday to Croatia on World Nomads.
#3 Vehicle: Taxi, Car or Dubrovnik Bus 17 to Mt. Srd
Those who don’t want to hike Mount Srd or take the cable car can opt to use a vehicle to get to the summit. Options for public transport to Mt Srd Dubrovnik are taxi (and Uber) or bus.
Dubrovnik Taxi or Uber
Just want a ride to the top? Grab a taxi from the Old Town to the top of Mt Srd! We heard it can cost about 50 euros, but it will depend on time of year and if you want the driver to wait.
Uber is also available in Dubrovnik and will cost much less than a pricey taxi. We paid less than $20 on our most recent trip. However, be aware that many drivers do not want to drive up Mount Srd, so be prepared to wait for a driver that will accept the assignment.
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.
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 Mt 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, too!
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 to Bosanka.
Check the official website for the most current times along with Dubrovnik bus fare information.
Dubrovnik Bus Tickets
Tickets can be purchased on the bus with cash or card. Additionally, there is an All-Day Ticket available for 5.30 Euro.
The daily ticket 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
Departing Pile Gate: 10:30am, 11:00am (Sat only), 11:35am, 12:40pm, 1:45pm, 2:50pm, 4:35pm, 6:30pm, 7:30pm and 08:30pm
Departing Bosanka: 07:25am, 8:30am (Sat only), 11:00am, 12:10pm, 1:15pm, 2:20pm, 3:25pm, 5:10pm, 07:00pm and 08:00pm
* Only 1 trip each way on Sat and no service on Sunday and Holidays.
Hybrid: Up One Way, Down Another
Rather than opting for a roundtrip ride or trek up Mt. Srd, choose to use one method to get to the top and another to get back down.
On three separate trips, we have taken the cable car, an Uber and the bus up, then walked back down on the trail. It’s actually our favorite way to experience Mount Srd!
Riding the bus up and hiking down is a great way to save money in Dubrovnik.
#4 Organized Dubrovnik Tour to Mt. Srd
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.
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 transportation is provided to the summit.
At the top, 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 ship 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.
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!
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 has the best views of any restaurant in the city! The fine-dining menu features local cuisine and a range of beverages (you can just go for a drink).
Panorama is located right next to the Upper Srd Station. The opening hours are typically the same as the Dubrovnik Cable Car timetable. It’s best to reserve ahead of time to ensure you get a seat with a view!
Fort Imperial & Croatian Homeland War Museum
Fort Imperial – or Emperor’s Fort – was built from 1806-1812 under Napoleon’s rule. In the mid-1800s, the Austrians, 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.
Housed inside the fort today is the Homeland War Museum. Displays chronicle the Serbian-Montenegrin attack on Dubrovnik, the Croatian Army victory and the effects of war on the city and its residents.
White Stone Mt. Srd Cross
In 1935, the Archdiocese of Brac Island gifted the white stone cross to Dubrovnik. Made from Brac Island’s famous stone, it stood on the hill until 1991 when it was also destroyed in the Homeland War.
The platform remained intact and a new cross was added after the war; you can see the difference in color for the original stone.
Dubrovnik Views from Mount Srd, Croatia
The vista from the top of Mount Srd offers one of the very best viewpoints in Dubrovnik.
From the top of Mt. Srd there are numerous Dubrovnik lookout spots – and we highly recommend seeking out the different vantage points.
At the cable car station, there are platforms with binoculars, which provide good views, but not the best Dubrovnik views!
We believe 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 unobstructed views of Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island and the Adriatic Sea. Looking inland, views can stretch beyond Croatia’s borders to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro.
Mount Srd Sunset
Mt Srd is a fantastic Dubrovnik place 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.
Dubrovnik Travel Tips
Going to the Srd summit – whether by Dubrovnik gondola, the Mount Srd trail or by vehicle – is just one of the many fantastic things to do on your trip!
Our guide of What To Do in Dubrovnik features all the absolute must-see sights. When you’ve checked those out, consider heading off on Fun Day Trip!
Visiting other Top Croatia Destinations? We highlight the top places to visit and things to do in our robust Guide to Planning a Trip 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 our Trip Planning Printables!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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