As your local tour guide, let me take you on a journey through one of Croatia’s most underrated yet awe-inspiring landmarks – the Walls of Ston. Stretching over the rolling hills of the Pelješac Peninsula, these ancient fortifications were once the second longest in the world, earning the nickname "The European Great Wall."
Located just an hour's drive from Dubrovnik, Ston is a small town with a big historical footprint. Its walls, salt pans, seafood traditions, and quiet charm make it a must-visit for curious travelers seeking a mix of culture, history, and adventure.
Ston is located at the base of the Pelješac Peninsula in southern Dalmatia, Croatia. It sits near the isthmus connecting the peninsula to the mainland and is just:
60 km from Dubrovnik (1 hour by car)
120 km from Split
Accessible via the Pelješac Bridge, opened in 2022, which has greatly improved travel between Dubrovnik and central Dalmatia.
There are two towns here: Ston and Mali Ston (Little Ston), located about 1 km apart, both connected by the famous walls.
The construction of the Ston Walls began in 1333 after the Republic of Dubrovnik acquired the Pelješac Peninsula. The goal? To protect the lucrative saltworks of Ston and defend the region from potential invaders.
Originally over 7 kilometers long
Included over 40 towers and 5 fortresses
Today, around 5.5 km of the wall remains intact, making it the longest preserved fortification system in Europe
The project took more than 400 years to complete and was considered an engineering marvel of the Middle Ages.
Exploring the Ston Walls is an adventure in itself. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, but trust me – the panoramic views and historic atmosphere are worth every step.
Ston Entrance: Next to the town gate, ideal for climbing toward Fort Kaštio and Veliki Kaštio Fortress
Mali Ston Entrance: Best if you want to walk downhill toward Ston
The full wall hike from Ston to Mali Ston (or vice versa) is about 1.2 kilometers
Time: 30–45 minutes one way depending on pace and stops for photos
Spectacular views of salt pans, forested hills, and the Adriatic Sea
Stone guard towers and dramatic hilltop fortresses
The surrounding countryside, vineyards, and oyster farms
One of the key reasons the walls were built was to protect Ston’s saltworks, which have been in continuous operation since Roman times.
Oldest saltworks in Europe
Still in use today using traditional methods
You can tour the salt pans and even buy Ston sea salt, known for its purity and quality
Fun fact: During the time of the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik), salt was one of the main sources of income, making the walls essential for economic protection.
Ston is just as famous for its food as for its walls. If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat.
Considered the best oysters in the Adriatic
Grown in the clean, mineral-rich waters of Mali Ston Bay
Served fresh with lemon, or grilled with herbs and olive oil
Often prepared "na buzaru" (in white wine, garlic, and parsley)
Try Plavac Mali, a robust red grown on the nearby Pelješac hills
Pair seafood with Posip or Grk, excellent local white wines
Want a deeper dive into local traditions? Hop on an oyster boat tour. These guided experiences take you directly to the oyster beds where you can:
Learn how oysters are cultivated
Taste them freshly harvested from the sea
Sip on a local wine while surrounded by crystal-clear waters
It’s an unforgettable combination of culture, cuisine, and coastal scenery.
Although small, Ston offers a variety of accommodation options:
Boutique guesthouses within medieval stone houses
Seaside villas and holiday rentals in Mali Ston
Budget options including hostels and B&Bs
Rustic farm stays and wine estate accommodations in nearby villages
For a quiet and authentic experience, choose a stay with a local family-run property.
Top of the wall near Veliki Kaštio – panoramic shot of Ston and salt pans
Mali Ston harbor – oyster boats and calm blue waters
Looking down the wall with its zig-zagging stairs – very Game of Thrones-like!
Twilight view over the Pelješac hills
Croatia's Mediterranean climate makes the Ston Walls accessible year-round, but certain months offer optimal conditions:
April to June: Pleasant temperatures, wildflowers, fewer tourists
September to October: Harvest season for wine and oysters, perfect for foodies
July and August: Hot and crowded, but worth it for summer vibes and festivals
Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler climbs and softer light for photography.
Oyster Festival (March) – Celebrate the start of the oyster season with tastings, music, and boat tours
Ston Wall Marathon (September) – Yes, people run along the walls and surrounding roads!
Salt Harvest Festival (Summer) – Demonstrations of traditional salt production
By Car: The most convenient way – scenic drive along the coast or via the Pelješac Bridge
By Bus: Buses run from Dubrovnik several times daily (approx. 1.5 hours)
By Tour: Many Dubrovnik-based tours offer day trips to Ston, often including wine tastings and oyster farm visits
By Boat: Yacht charters or private boat tours along the Dalmatian coast often include a stop in Mali Ston
Morning: Arrive in Ston, walk the full length of the walls
Midday: Visit the salt pans
Afternoon: Lunch in Mali Ston with fresh oysters
Evening: Sunset stroll along the waterfront
Morning: Drive or bike through Pelješac vineyards
Visit local wineries in Dingač or Postup
Afternoon: Explore nearby villages like Trstenik or Janjina
Evening: Return to Dubrovnik or continue deeper into the peninsula
They were often mistaken for defensive city walls, but their main role was economic defense of the saltworks.
Nicknamed the “European Great Wall” due to their impressive size.
The walls were restored in the 2000s and are now fully open to visitors.
One of only a few medieval wall systems that connect two towns (Ston and Mali Ston).
Stay on marked paths when walking the walls
Support local oyster farms and saltworks
Avoid littering, especially in protected coastal areas
Use reef-safe sunscreen if swimming or boating nearby
The Ston Walls may not be as famous as Dubrovnik’s, but they offer an experience that’s just as rich – and far less crowded. With sweeping views, delicious seafood, and a sense of timeless history, Ston is a place where you can connect with Croatia’s medieval past and natural bounty all in one go.
So next time you’re heading down the Dalmatian coast, make sure to stop at Ston. The walls are waiting – and they have stories to tell.