Mount Srd rises above the old town of Dubrovnikin Croatia. The craggy mountain is topped by a large fortress, a huge cross (both visible from sea level), a Croatian war museum and a panoramic Dubrovnik restaurant. From the top of Mount Srd, visitors can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Dubrovnik that is simply breathtaking. Guests can spend a happy day immersing themselves in the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and the most famous historical city in Croatia.
The viewpoint of Mount Srd Dubrovnik stretches across the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to the west, across Croatia's border with Bosnia to the east and the Montenegro South. Ascending Srd Hill is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia and there are 4 convenient ways to get there: Dubrovnik Cable Car, Mount Srd Hiking Trail, vehicle (local bus or car) or organized tour.
Mt. Srd Croatia is a must-see in Dubrovnik! Part of the Dinaric Alps mountain range, Srd reaches a height of 1.352 feet, overlooking the picturesque coast of the Pearl of the Adriatic and Dalmatia. On clear days, the panoramic view extends over the islands that dot the Adriatic Sea, allowing visitors to see the Elaphiti Islands 35 miles away.
However, it's not just the breathtaking views that entice visitors to the summit; Mt. Srd has long protected Dubrovnik from invaders. More recently, in the 90s, the mountain played a strategic role in the Croatian War of Independence (also known as the National War) and the 8-month-long Siege of Dubrovnik.
To help other travelers plan their trip to the top of Dubrovnik's famous hill, we're sharing all the specific details, from getting there to what to do at the top of Mount Srd, to answers to some frequently asked questions.
How to get to the top of Srd Dubrovnik
There are four popular ways to reach the top of Dubrovnik's Mount Srd: the Mount Srd cable car, Dubrovnik hiking trails, local city bus and organized tour.
#1 Cable Car Dubrovnik
Mount Srd is easily accessible by Dubrovnik cable car (also called seilbahn, gondola, funicular, chair lift and cable car). Dubrovnik's cable car station is located just outside the city walls and the ride to the top of Mount Srd is just 3 minutes.
Dubrovnik's first cable car to the summit was built in 1969, however it was destroyed in the early 90s during the National War. In 2010 the cable car was rebuilt, providing the quickest and easiest route to the summit.
After purchasing tickets, visitors board the modern cable car to go up. We suggest securing a seat near the rear window, if possible, so you can watch the city get smaller as you're taken to the top of the mountain. From the Upper Srd cable car station, all the summit attractions are accessible on foot, including the restaurant, viewing bridges, cross, fort and museum.
The cable car ride is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik (ranks as the second most popular activity in the city after the Walls of Dubrovnik). However, there are only two cars, each of which can only carry up to 30 passengers at a time. Therefore, during the high tourist season in Croatia there will likely be long queues, especially between 9:00 and 11:00, when it is busiest.
Dubrovnik cable car price
The listed cost of the Dubrovnik cable car is current as of April 2023.
Adult : return Mount Srd Cable Car Price – 27 Euro; One way – 15 euros
Children (4-12 years) : A/R Monte Srd cable car: 7 Euros; One way – 4 Euros
Child (0-4 years) : Free
Dubrovnik Cable Car tickets can be purchased at the lower station in cash (local currency only) or credit card.
Dubrovnik cable car opening hours 2023
Dubrovnik Cable Car times vary by month and in case of strong winds and/or lightning, the cable car will temporarily stop operations.
- January , February March : CLOSED
- April : from 9: 00 to 21: 00
- May : from 9: 00 to 23: 00
- June july august september : from 9: 00 at midnight
- October : from 9:00 to 20:00
- November : from 9: 00 to 17: 00
- December : from 9: 00 to 16: 00
Location of the Dubrovnik cable car station
The Dubrovnik cable car station is located at Ulica Kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 20000, Dubrovnik. You can get directions using . The station is a short walk from the Old Town or a short ride on bus 8 from Dubrovnik's main bus station to Port Gruz.
We also created a Croatia itinerary in 10 or more days, if you want to extend your stay.
#2 Hiking Dubrovnik: Mt. Srd Trail
Hiking around Dubrovnik is one of our favorite activities… and walking up Mount Srd is one of the most strenuous and rewarding! – excursions in the city. The trail begins above the orange-tiled roofs of Dubrovnik in an evergreen forest, then emerges onto the open hillside where a trail of long switchbacks leads to the summit.
Mount Srd hiking trail: distance and time
The Mount Srd hike from the trailhead to the summit is less than 1,5 miles. However, the uphill trail makes the climb much longer.
Google Maps says the hike should only take about 30 minutes, but unless you plan on stopping for photos and to catch your breath, we suggest allowing about an hour to get to the top. That said, the amount of time it takes to ascend Mt Srd will depend on your fitness level and desired pace.
Climbing Dubrovnik Mt. Srd
The dirt path of the Monte Srd excursion begins in the woods. Tall evergreen trees provide shade from the sun and block noise from the street below. The scent of earth and fresh flowers hangs in the air. Being completely immersed in nature offers a peaceful start to the Mount Srd hike.
When the trail exits the woods, the trail changes from dirt to dirt. The long hairpin bends are clearly visible zigzagging along the mountainside. At each bend there is an artistic display of one of the 14 Stations of the Cross and wooden crosses are also placed along the route. The route is used for pilgrimages to the white cross at the top of the hill during religious celebrations.
Parts of the trail are quite easy to walk, allowing hikers to admire the Adriatic Sea and the historic city of Dubrovnik – just keep an eye out for loose stones! With the changing perspectives and changing light, we stopped every few minutes to take more photos.
How to Get to Mount Srd Trailhead
Dubrovnik's famous hiking trail is located northwest of the Old Town, across the main street, Jadranska Cesta. There are numerous routes that will lead to the trailhead.
From Porta Pile, you can follow these . Note: The trailhead is across the road from the end marker on the map. Unfortunately Google Maps does not recognize the staircase that connects Stolacka Ulica to Jadranska Cesta.
You need to be prepared when hiking in Dubrovnik, Croatia! While the climb up Mount Srd is not particularly long, the hike up Mount Srd Dubrovnik requires some preparation.
#3 Taxi, car or Dubrovnik Bus 17
Travelers who don't want to hike Mount Srd or take the cable car can instead choose to use a vehicle to reach the summit. The options for vehicle transportation to Mount Srd Dubrovnik are taxi, car or bus.
Taxi rental Dubrovnik
Do you just want a ride to the top? Visitors can hire a taxi from the historic center to the top of Mount Srd. It costs around 40 euros, but it will depend on what you ask the driver to do. Ask for approximate fares before boarding and tell the driver what you expect (regarding wait times, photo stops, etc.). Uber was also available at the time of our visit to Croatia.
Self Drive to Mt Srd
You can rent a car for your trip to Croatia. Just be aware that while it's a scenic drive on a paved road, it can be trying. Steep inclines, narrow passages and winding roads add to the challenges. That said, once at the top, there is plenty of parking at Mount Srd and it's free.
Monte Srd Bus
Another way to approach to the top of Mount Srd is via local bus no. The bus to Mount Srd does not go to the top, but to the mountain town of Bosanka. From there, it's just a short climb to the top of Mount Srd (with incredible viewpoints along the way!).
The ride is less expensive than the cable car and much less difficult than the climb from Old Town of Dubrovnik. The plus: The views from the bus are incredible. The bus route slowly ascends the mountain to the east of the city, allowing for spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea (sit on the right side of the bus for the best view). Once inland, there are mountain views to the north as the bus passes through small villages to Bosanka.
Details of Dubrovnik bus 17
The bus leaves from Pile Gate at the small traffic island in the middle of the road in front of the ticket office. It takes about 25 minutes to go from Pile Gate to Bosanka. Note: bus timetables and prices updated to 2023. Check the official bus website for the most up-to-date information.
Bus tickets to Ragusa
Tickets can be purchased from the driver for 2 Euros (it is best to have correct change). In addition, a day ticket is available for 5,30 Euros, which can only be purchased at the official ticket office (at Pile Gate or Gruz Port). If you plan to use more than 3 buses in one day, the day ticket is the best option.
Dubrovnik Bus 17 Timetable 2023
Departure Pile Gate : 11:00 (Saturday only), 11:40, 12:35, 13:35, 14:35, 16:35, 19:30
Departure from Bosanka : 07am, 15am (Saturday only), 8pm, 30pm, 12pm, 05pm, 13pm
*No service on Sundays and public holidays.
Rather than opting for a round trip or climbing Mt. Srd, visitors can choose to use one method to get to the top and another to get down the mountain. We took both the cable car and the bus and then headed down the trail. It's actually our favorite way to experience Mount Srd and is cheaper than paying for a ride both ways!
Walking combination of the cable car of Dubrovnik
The cost of the Dubrovnik cable car increases every year. To save a little money, but still get the experience, consider purchasing a one-way ticket for a combined Dubrovnik cable car excursion. Ride the Srd Mountain cable car, visit the sights at the top, admire an aerial view of Dubrovnik, then enjoy a leisurely hike along the hairpin bends into the city.
Get on the bus or taxi and walk down
A one-way ride also works with bus 17 or a taxi. Take a direct taxi 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 down.
Dubrovnik: see also
#4 Organized tour of Dubrovnik
Visitors who are short on time or prefer a professional guide to lead the way have a few options for organized tours to the summit of Mount Srd.
Dubrovnik tour
The Tour is ideal for travelers who have little time in Dubrovnik. Travel with a guide in an air-conditioned vehicle on a quick (but efficient!) 1,5-hour tour. See top attractions, such as the Imperial Fort on Mount Srd, the Franjo Tudman Bridge and the source of the Ombla River.
We offer you several Guided tours and excursions of Dubrovnik and surroundings. This way you won't have any problems especially if you have little time available.
Dubrovnik mountain: what to do
Reaching the top of Srd Dubrovnik mountain is only part of the fun, as there are many things to do once you reach the summit!
Panorama Ragusa restaurant
The multi-level Panorama Dubrovnik restaurant has the best view of any restaurant in the city! The restaurant's fine menu offers local cuisine and a wide range of drinks (you can just go for a drink).
Guests can find Panorama next to the upper cable car station. Opening hours are generally the same as the Dubrovnik cable car timetable. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, but it's best to book in advance to secure a seat with a view!
Imperial Fort (Imperial Fortress Dubrovnik)
Dubrovnik Imperial Fort – or Emperor's Fort – was built between 1806 and 1812 under Napoleonic rule. In the mid-1800s, the Austrians (the ruling empire in the region at the time) expanded the fortress as a defense against the Ottoman Empire.
During the national war, which involved Serbia, Montenegro and Croatia and lasted from 1991 to 1995, the fort was used by the Croatians to defend Dubrovnik.
Croatian National War Museum Dubrovnik
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 the recent war. It shows the chronicle of the Serbian-Montenegrin attack on Dubrovnik, the victory of the Croatian army and the effects of the war on Dubrovnik and its inhabitants.
White Stone Mt. Srd Cross
In 1935, the archdiocese of the island of Brac donated the white stone cross to Dubrovnik. The cross, made of the famous stone from the island of Brac, remained on the hill until 1991, when it was also destroyed during the national war. The platform remained intact and a new cross was erected after the war; visitors can see the difference between the original stone and the new cross.
Dubrovnik seen from Mount Srd, Croatia
From the top of Mount Srd there are numerous viewpoints of Dubrovnik – and we highly recommend visitors to seek out the different viewpoints. At the cable car station there are platforms with binoculars, which offer a nice view, but not the best view of Dubrovnik!
We think the best viewing points from Mount Srd are on both sides of the cable car complex: beyond the cross on one side and beyond the fort on the other. Both areas are characterized by vast open terrain and completely unobstructed views of Dubrovnik, the island of Lokrum and the Adriatic Sea.
Seeing inland views can extend beyond Croatia's borders to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. It is clear why Mount Srd was such a strategic place when the three countries were at war.
Packed lunch in Dubrovnik
One of the best ways to soak up the 360-degree views of Croatia's coast and the hills of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro is to linger with a picnic lunch. Stop at a local market or bakery before heading up the hill and find the perfect spot for a picnic!
Mount Srd Sunset
Mount Srd is a fantastic vantage point of Dubrovnik to watch the sunset. From the elevated observation point, you can watch the sun set over the horizon.
That said, we personally don't recommend hiking Mount Srd in the dark. No problem, though: the Dubrovnik cable car carries passengers well into the night in summer. Hikers can still go up Mount Srd and then take the cable car down… or just go both ways.
Frequently asked questions about Dubrovnik Srd mountain
Now that you know how to get there and what to do when you do, we have a few more tips to share before you climb to the top of Mount Srd in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
What is the correct pronunciation of Mount Srd?
Many tourists pronounce Mount Srd a Mount Serd (rhyming with curd or word). However, the D in Srd is actually the letter đ (ad with a line through it) of the Croatian alphabet. The đ in Croatian is pronounced like the letter J of the Latin alphabet.
Therefore, the correct pronunciation of Mount Srđ is Mount Surge (similar to the beginning of the word, surgery) or Mount Sergedge.
Are there alternative spellings of Mount Srd?
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 in this article). However, it is sometimes written Mount Srdj or phonetically as Serdge. Also, it is sometimes called Srdj Hill (but if you choose to climb it, the “hill” sure looks 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 top of Srd Mountain Dubrovnik.
Is it worth going to the top of Mount Srd?
Absolutely! We have reached the summit of Mount Srd several times and the views never disappoint! We 100% recommend including Mount Srd in your travel plans to Dubrovnik.
Travel tips for Dubrovnik
Reaching the summit of Srd, whether by Dubrovnik Cable Car, Mount Srd Trail or by car, is just one of the many great things to do in Dubrovnik on your trip. Besides riding, driving or hiking Mount Srd Dubrovnik, we have plenty of other tips for what to do in the city.
Our guide to What to do in Dubrovnik features the must-see places and our best tips for planning your trip. In addition to sightseeing and attractions, we include tips on where to stay and what to pack. Use our comprehensive blog post to plan your entire trip to Dubrovnik!
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