• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Curious to know more about Dubrovnik’s history? Join a local history expert on an insightful tour that will show you a side of the city that can’t be found in any book. This experience will open your eyes to the past and origins of Dubrovnik from a local perspective as you learn about The Break of Yugoslavia.

Destination

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Category

City Highlight Tours

Duration

3 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

English, Hrvatski, Français, Español

Included

• Private Guide
• All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Neutral

Excluded

• Entrance to attractions

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 7 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at The Ploče Gate, in front of the stone bridge that leads into the Walls. - Dubrovnik to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. The Break of Yugoslavia

   Your history tour in Dubrovnik will focus on The Break of Yugoslavia. Learn the impacts, insights and hear stories related to this historic event from your knowledgeable host. Discover the city as you retrace history and go in-depth on the effects this part of history has on Dubrovnik

4. Historical Highlights

   Check out main landmarks related to the theme of your history tour and connect their relevance through fantastic stories and facts from your expert local host

5. Hidden Treasures

   During your tour, you’ll also uncover hidden gems that will show you a different perspective of history as you know it, something you can’t easily find in a history book!

6. Storytelling Journey

   As you discover the historical side of Dubrovnik, you’ll be able to go back in time thanks to the amazing stories and storytelling skills of your local host. Feel free to ask any questions and feel as if you are relieving history in the present time

7. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Cindy🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Vesna)

27 November 2024

Our flight to Dubrovnik was delayed but Vesna did her absolute best to accommodate our schedule. Vesna was personable, knowledgeable and gracious. She gave us an excellent tour of Dubrovnik which provided a first hand account of the war in 1991. Prior to that time, we really had not known that much about it. It was truly fascinating, if not heartbreaking. We all enjoyed the tour very much and highly recommend it, if you are into history.Amazing Vesna!

Ian🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Vlaho)

27 November 2024

We had the most amazing walking tour with Vlaho on the recent history of Dubrovnik . His knowledge is firsthand and we were mesmerised by his telling. We would thoroughly recommend his tour.Dubrovnik uncovered

Carlos🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vlaho)

29 October 2024

Vlaho handled a serious and difficult subject very well. I now have a much deeper understanding of the breakup of Yugoslavia in a way that will stay with me for a very long time. It was a privilege to hear about what happened in Dubrovnik from someone who was there during the war. I recommend doing the tour early during your stay because Vlaho was very helpful with advice for the rest of our time in Croatia.

William🇺🇸 United States

(About local Mia)

17 October 2024

Mia was simply great. She is very knowledgeable, and presents cultural and historic information in a very passionate and engaging manner. Would absolutely recommend her and use her again in Croatia. Excellent tour

Patra🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

15 October 2024

Vesna was a great guide. She takes you through old town while explaining the history from a locals perspective. Her knowledge is impressive. She showed me areas off the normal routes. I walked down many paths with her while she explained aspects of the area that I never would have known on my own. I would highly recommend her as your guide.A walk thru history

Sandra🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vlaho)

14 October 2024

Vlaho was fantastic. He created a very interesting tour that catered to our group and interest. He is very passionate and knowledgeable about his beautiful country. Fantastic!

Kelly🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

28 September 2024

Our tour with Vesna was one of the highlights of our time in Croatia. She grew up inside the walls of Dubrovnik—a true local in a seemingly fairytale place. Her description of how her family lived during the war moved me to tears, and left us with images of what life inside the walls was really like. This tour was unique as it combined the old history of the city with its more recent history. We ended our tour with a much greater appreciation for the place. We spent much of our trip trying to learn more about the war. Vesna is such a genuine, lovely person. She was so generous in sharing her very personal stories with us. We felt lucky and grateful to have met her and learned from her. I wish we could have spent the whole day wandering Dubrovnik with Vesna.Book a tour with Vesna!!

Kathleen 🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

17 September 2024

We enjoyed our tour of Dubrovnik while learning about the influence of Yugoslavia in Dubrovnik’s history. Vesna was so interesting to listen to, and as we walked along the streets of Old Town, she pointed out important landmarks and sights we would have missed on our own. She connected Dubrovnik’s past with life today, which is helpful in understanding what makes Dubrovnik unique. The tour was great!!Dubrovnik Walk

Sophie

(About local Mia)

16 September 2024

Excellente guide, très intéressante et passionnée ! Merci Mia pour cette belle visite et les bonnes suggestions de visites !

Megan🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

14 September 2024

Karmen was great on so many levels! She has a personality plus and is extremely knowledgeable about Croatia, Dubrovnik and Old Town. In addition to the tour, she gave us great restaurant recommendations, best places to shop for different things and places to avoid. I'd recommend her for any type of tour, history, culture, food and wine or Game of Thrones spots. She does it all! A great day in Old Town!

Rachel🇺🇸 United States

(About local Jure)

12 September 2024

Wow, what a wonderful day with Jure! He is a historian, as am I, and he did an amazing job. We had a few Game of Thrones fans in our group of 5 and he included many facts into the history tour especially for them. He was kind, funny and informative. He gave great restaurant and museum recommendations throughout the tour and made us feel very welcome to the city! Highly recommend this tour and especially with Jure!Amazing tour with Jure

Jessica 🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

2 September 2024

Karmen is irrefutably one of the Best guides we have ever had in our travels. She was incredibly interesting, informative, and just so knowledgeable about everything Croatian and the surrounding area, not to mention just a really enjoyable, nice person. She adjusted the tour based on our interests. She also recommended fabulous restaurant and a wine bar for tastings. She took us to fabulous little shops that had really high-quality items. I cannot recommend Carmen enough. I can guarantee that a tour with Karmen will be a highlight of your trip!FABULOUS!!!!!

Claire🇿🇦 South Africa

(About local Mia)

2 September 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of the Old town with Mia. We loved her energy and passion for her city. Mia gave us great recommendations for things to do and great restaurants ! Thank you Mia ! It was lovely to meet you !An insightful, interesting tour with Mia

dgaard🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

27 August 2024

Karmen is both personable and knowledgeable. We had a memorable experience tailored for our family. Karmen had a wide breath of knowledge and was able to recite the history of her country and provide insightful information about the game of thrones as well. Karmen was also very responsive to any questions pre and post tour! Great experience

Allyson🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Vesna)

15 August 2024

Vesna gave us a very objective view of the Homeland war. And her own living experience gave us a realistic view of the politics and the day to day difficulties during that time. As well as describing the ancient history. We were both extremely impressed by her knowledge and delivery and she answered all our questions very comprehensively. We would highly recommend a tour with Vesna. Outstanding insight on Dubrovnik

Emmanuelle🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Jure)

11 August 2024

We had a great tour with Jore. He managed to convey the complexity of the war while making it clearer for us. Really great - highly recommended. Our 2 teenagers were engaged as well which is fantastic- thank you Knowledgeable, easy going

t4t4sbghvs

(About local Jure)

9 August 2024

Kure was so knowledgeable and authentic! He gave us a fantastic 3 hour private tour including history of the homeland war with game of thrones thrown in! Jure the history buff is fantastic!

Marcela🇧🇷 Brazil

(About local Karmen)

13 July 2024

Karem was an absolute star! We had a great time learning all about the history of Dubrovnik and Croatia, with all the fun facts. Karem was very patient, answering all of our million questions, showing us around the beautiful city of Dubrovnik and all its hidden gems. Super tour! Highly recommend it!Amazing tour!

Ray🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Mia)

10 July 2024

I really enjoyed my tour with Mia. Once she found out that I had replacement knees, she designed the tour around my limited capabilities Whilst giving me and extensive tour of the old town, she avoided us climbing excessive steps. I enjoyed her company and her vast knowledge of the subject. I feel like i understand the Croatian culture better as a result of my tour. Mia tries very hard to ensure you have fun and enjoy your time with her. I would definitely recommend her to you.Perfect tour designed for me

Carson🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

10 July 2024

Karmen was an amazing tour guide! She was very easy to communicate with leading up to the tour and once we arrived, Karmen made our tour exceptional. She was very well educated in the history of Dubrovnik and was very enthusiastic in sharing the information with us! We definitely recommend booking Karmen for your tour. You will not be disappointed! Great Experience!

Jacqueline🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

26 June 2024

Our group had an excellent 4 hour tour with Karmen! She is extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. All of us learned new things and appreciated her enthusiasm and love for her country. Highly recommend!Wonderful history tour!

Derin🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Vlaho)

7 June 2024

A most enjoyable 3hours with Vlaho. I learnt so much about the history, delivered in the most interesting way. Vlaho is incredibly learned and passionate about his country and this comes across. He also has an incredible sense of humour which mJes him great company. I could easily have done a couple more hours. Highly recommended tour. Informative and fun

Adrian🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Mia)

29 May 2024

Personalised tour given for what our group wanted. Super knowledgeable about the history of Dubrovnik. She was extremely flexible and kept in contact with us after we had booked and had excellent English. Rexonmended many restaurants to us. A super afternoon spent around Dubrovnik. Mia is fantastic!

Lee🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Vlaho)

21 May 2024

Before we left for Dubrovnik we messaged Vlaho to say we had two tours booked. He replied immediately taking care to ensure they complimented each other. He also provided other information to make sure we were prepared. He has a vast knowledge and passion regarding his city and we were all very enlightened by his explanation of the history- recent and past of Dubrovnik. We spent time at the war museum before taking to the walls. He was very patient in fact the only reason for 9 stars would be the war museum was done at a sedate pace and we would maybe have liked it slightly quicker although others may appreciate the pace. He took some super photos and shared some historical and game of thrones linked anecdotes. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and would recommend.Walls and war tour with Vlaho

John🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Mia)

21 May 2024

Mia was great. We feel like we now know more than we ever would have. Mia took us to very off the grid places, beautifully described the history, and even made recommendations for the rest of our trip in Croatia. 10/10…would highly recommend. Excellent Tour and Mia was Awesome!!

Jessika🇨🇭 Switzerland

(About local Vesna)

17 April 2024

I chose to combine Visna‘s Medieval and War tours. She is a walking encyclopaedia of Dubrovnik and told me many quirky, funny and dark stories but my favourite parts of the tour were the most unique of all; her stories of the war. She lived (and still lives!) in Dubrovnik‘s old town during the war and has many inspirational, sad and heartwarming stories to tell. As if that wasn’t enough, she is also absolutely delightful, so warm and personable. You are in very good hands when you book with Visna!!See Dubrovnik through Visna‘s eyes!

Elizabeth🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Vlaho)

3 April 2024

We had a great time with Vlaho on our tour and learnt loads about this amazing city. Our favourite part was going to the more unexplored parts of Dubrovnik and seeing the ‘living’ part of the city. As a journalist it was fascinating to meet someone with direct experience of Croatia’s conflict in the 90’s . Highly recommended Brilliant walk and talk

Gordon🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Karmen)

31 October 2023

We were so fortunate to have Karmen as our guide! She was kind, gracious, extremely knowledgable, enthusiastic, and patient as she answered our many questions. She was able to gauge our interests and tailor the tour to meet our interests. She is a wonderful ambassador for her city and because of her tour we definitely want to return. We had a near-perfect afternoon and Karmen was instrumental in making it so. We give her ten stars!!!!! Excellent guide!

Peggy🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

14 October 2023

We are deeply appreciative of the time we got to spend learning about Yugoslavia’s complicated history. Vesna has encyclopedic knowledge as a historian and she tells the story in such a way that I will never forget it. We stood in the front of her house as she and her family watched in horror as the tanks on the hill above began to shell the treasure that is Dubrovnik’s beautiful old streets…that was just one of many stories she told us. We studied her maps, asked questions and came away from our time together having a far deeper understanding of Yugoslavia from its beginnings to present day. I recommend Vesna without reservation.Insights and deep knowledge from Vesna

Pat🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Vesna)

13 October 2023

Don’t hesitate to book with Vesna. She will take you down the small streets away from the crowds. You will learn about the politics of the region and the recent war. She will also tell you a little of the lifestyle of the inhabitants. Since she has always lived in Dubrovnik she has many stories to share about life there. She also knows her wine! We had a very enjoyable 3 hours with Vesna and really appreciated her sense of humour. A Walk Through History

Debby🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Karmen)

5 October 2023

We had a wonderful experience touring Old Town with Karmen. Having a knowledgeable and charming guide can make a tour truly memorable. And sharing  a local coffee spot with a perfect view is a delightful bonus! Karmen took the time before our tour to look into a few questions that I asked her. Her lunch resturant was spot on as well as her Gelato recommendation. She was available via whats app for any question even after the tour was over . Amazing guide ! Canadian Crew Recommends ……

Liz🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

5 October 2023

After visiting several cities by bike from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, it was great to spend a day walking in historical Dubrovnik with a private guide. A friend in the States recommended WithLocals. After reading the reviews on each of their guides, I chose to hire Karmen, and we are glad we did! Karmen was very outgoing, knowledgeable, and spoke English very well. We learned so much about the history of Dubrovnik. We have done several group tours before but nothing beats hiring a private guide such as Karmen. The ease of asking questions and hearing Karmen’s response beats being part of a large group tour. Without a doubt, we will use WithLocals again. Thank you, Karmen, for an exceptional tour and history of Dubrovnik.Awesome Guide and Tour

Susan🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

4 October 2023

I was on my own for this tour- unfortunately, my husband wasn’t able to join us this time. I had no problem meeting Karmen at the meeting place, which was very close to the port where the cruise ship’s tender left me off. We proceeded to the Old Town inside the walls and Karmen showed me some beautiful spots. We decided not to walk on the wall since I had done that last time we were in Dubrovnik. Instead we saw much of the town- the main street as well as the delightful side streets and Karmen explained how Dubrovnik was developed centuries ago. The Old Town is like a maze with each street holding its own unique charm. Karmen showed me many different sights and sides of Dubrovnik and told me some interesting history. After walking awhile, we stopped for a coffee at a delightful seaside bar/restaurant where we watched several locals swimming. After being refreshed, we continued on. Since it was just the two of us, I asked to look in several shops. Karmen took me to some very nice shops and there was no pressure to buy anything. However, I did buy some small and fairly inexpensive jewelry and just enjoyed looking at the rest of the shops. Karmen told me what was authentic and related to Dubrovnik and what shops to avoid as touristy. We also went to the Farmers Market which has many local products. After some additional touring we decided to have a small lunch with Karmen’s recommendations of some Croatian specialties. It was all delicious! Afterwards, we returned to a shop I had wanted to see earlier but it had been closed. We were a bit past the end time of our tour but Karmen was very willing to make the additional stop before returning me to the port. I really enjoyed being with Karmen for the 3 hour tour and got such a feeling for the city that I’m anxious to return to spend more time there. She also said I could contact her if I had any questions or wanted any recommendations, which is something other With Local tour guides have offered as well. That is a really nice touch. I highly recommend Karmen if you are in Dubrovnik. She is delightful! It was a great day!

Tony🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Mia)

26 September 2023

We had a fantastic 3 hour guided tour with Mia, exploring the squares, many small side streets & alleyways of the old town. Mia's knowledge of the old town & Croatia was excellent, we learnt so much about it's history, its culture and day to day life. Mia was great fun, full of enthusiasm and her English was perfect. We would highly recommend booking a tour with Mia.A superb way to explore Dubrovnik Old Town

Jacqueline

(About local Mia)

24 September 2023

We were really lucky to book Mia at short notice and had a great walking tour round the city. She was knowledgable and hugely engaging. She told us about the older history and wove it in with the breakup of Yugoslavia and brought it right up to date with the impact of modern tourism and climate change. Very glad to have shared time with her. Great way to get to know the city

4k7hjmvdm7🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

15 September 2023

We are SO glad to have had Karmen as our tour guide in Dubrovnik. If it’s history, you’re interested in, Karmen knows it inside and out. Game of Thrones anecdotes? From which streets were closed down to the famous walk of shame stairs, she’ll take you from point A to point Z. If you’re looking for restaurant recommendations, Karmen will give you too many of them for every type of cuisine to take advantage of in one trip. Karmen will introduce you to the best fig sausages at the farmers market AND share the bittersweet story of Anastasia the cat. And if it’s shopping? She knows the shopkeepers with the best quality and prices for everything from jewelry to rubber duckies. Karmen lets you dictate your pace and will tailor any tour for your interests, stopping as needed. As a matter of fact, the place we stopped for coffee was so amazing, we went back 3 more times before we left Croatia. It was the best tour we could have hoped for, and will be the reason we return to Dubrovnik! Thank you, Karmen, for making our visit a most memorable one!Wonderful guide for a fun filled tour!

Peter🇮🇪 Ireland

(About local Mia)

12 September 2023

We booked a tour with Mia, to help us find our way around the city, and learn something of the history of the area. Mia has perfect English, and very welcoming. She guided us around the city, relating both the old and new history of the city, and a lot of tips and advice on where to go and what to do. We have been following her advice and are seeing places and doing things we would never have thought of, and are having a brilliant time. So, if you wish to see the city through the eyes of a local, and experience a true taste of the area, its history, culture and people, I have no qualms in recommending Mia to be your guide.Beautiful Dubronik.

Bernadette🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Karmen)

12 September 2023

Karmen entertained and educated us with her love of Dubrovnik on a 3 hour private tour. It was probably the best walking tour we have done and was well beyond our expectations. Thankyou again Karmen!Beyond our expectations!

Michael

(About local Karmen)

29 July 2023

We could not have gotten a better person than Karmen for our guide. She was friendly, energetic,perceptive, patient and very knowledgeable. She took the time to get to know us a little better at the beginning of our tour and seemed genuinely excited to learn that we had family roots from Croatia. She then tailored her talk to include more history about Croatia as a country and patiently answered our mannnnny questions. It was obvious that she has a deep understanding of Croatia's history and political climate. She was very insightful and pointed out many things that we would not have noticed or known as we walked around. We took her suggestions of things to do on the rest of our stay, which were spot on. It made our visit so much more meaningful and pleasant. We would highly recommend everyone use Withlocals and especially Karmen for their tour. Wonderful and memorable Tour

rupal🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

17 July 2023

Karmen was absolutely amazing to our family. She paid attention to our teenager kids and made fun for the whole family. Thank you so much for your hospitality Great experience

Dan🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

16 July 2023

My wife and I are history nerds, so we certainly picked the right guide. Vesna gave us a background on Croatia, Dubrovnik and also the war in the early '90s. A war survivor herself, her firsthand experience really added a dimension. I'm a GOT fan, so she included a bunch of that as well. Really got to see Old Town like a local. She even pointed out her childhood home. We'd highly recommend Vesna for a future tour.Very knowledgeable! We had a great tour

Toe Su🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Jure)

9 July 2023

Jure was incredibly knowledgeable and able to explain very complex history concisely and comprehensively. His easy manner and great personality just made a fascinating experience very fun and enjoyable. Highly recommended. Perfect

rick🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

24 June 2023

What an interesting and informative tour of Dubrovnik!! Karmen shared the generational history of the area and the rich cultural background. Karmen provided very interesting stories and highlighted the transformation from a socialistic country to a newly formed democracy. With that back drop we were she showed us many of the magical architectural features of the town, a visit to a tuck away seaside cafe and a visit to some local artisan shops. All in all Karmen was an awesome hostesses, very through and a treat to spend the day with. Krmen was awesome

Alain🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Vlaho)

23 June 2023

We had the priviledge to spend 3 hours with Vlaho. It has been a fabulous opportunity not only to understand the historical and geopolitical situation that led to the war but also to apprehend the daily life of the Croatian forces that defended with courage and extreme resilience the town of Dubrovnik. Learning from a war veteran is a real privilege and an emotional experience that we strongly recommend to all. A Unique Insight into Dubrovnik's past

Brett🇺🇸 United States

(About local Karmen)

8 June 2023

Karmen was an incredible host. She made the tour fun and informative. We learned a lot of history and saw a lot of great sights in Dubrovnik. She also gave us a lot of great pointers for after our tour. Highly, highly recommend her. Great time in Dubrovnik

Rosie🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Jure)

13 May 2023

Jure gave the four of us a wonderful private tour around the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Within its walls, Jure pointed out various important places related to the recent bombing by Yugoslavia. He is very knowledgeable on that subject. At our request, he also pointed out a few spots where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed. It was great to be in such a small group; the experience is so much better than a large tour. And the cost shared amongst four people is very reasonable. I highly recommend a tour by Jure!Very Knowledgeable Guide

Zach🇺🇸 United States

(About local Mia)

4 May 2023

My tour with Mia was fantastic, she was very knowledgeable about Dubrovnik and Croatia. She was also able to give me spot on advise about restaurants, cafe, and other activities available in Dubrovnik which was invaluable. Highly recommend doing a tour with her!Incredibly helpful

cemcneely56🇺🇸 United States

(About local Vesna)

12 March 2023

Vesna’s historical tour of Dubrovnik provided deep insights into the ancient architecture and the war experience of Dubrovnik residents during 1991-1995. She is knowledgeable about the city’s lived history and the fictional film connections. Vesna helped us understand how the city buildings and walls evolved over the centuries, helped us see how the residents survived and what they lost during the war, and showed us how the city has been rebuilt. We highly recommend her history tour. Insightful and informative tour.

John

(About local Vesna)

22 October 2022

One of the most moving tours i have been on. Amazing to here about the recent history of Dubrovnik by someone who was great affected by events. Highly recommended. Highly Recommended

Unknown

(About local Mia)

14 October 2022

Mia was incredibly knowledgeable about Dubrovnik and surrounding areas. Being native to the area, she shared great stories about the history of the area and what the locals have experienced. She showed us many out of the way places - which we appreciated. Mia was very personable and delightful to be with for our 3 hour tour. Fabulous!