Exploring Ston: The Great Wall of Europe and a Hidden Gem in Croatia
#croatianislands #Ston, on Croatia’s Pelješac Peninsula, is often called “the Great Wall of Europe”, and for good reason. This fortified city is home to one of the longest defensive stone walls in the world, stretching across the hills like a sleeping dragon. Visiting Ston feels like stepping into a medieval postcard where time moves slower, the sea sparkles all around, and history whispers from every stone. #Croatia
🏯 Why it’s called the Great Wall of Europe
The walls of Ston, built in the 14th century, are over 5 kilometers long and were designed to protect the city’s valuable salt pans—among the oldest in Europe still in operation today. Walking along the walls offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, lush green hills, and the old salt fields below.
🚶♂️ Exploring the Old Town
The heart of Ston is its charming casco antiguo (Old Town), filled with narrow stone streets, ancient churches, and remnants of its Venetian past. The impressive fortress, surrounded by water and connected to the walls, creates the perfect backdrop for photos.
💸 Costs and access
✔️ Walking the walls: Around €10 per person for access.
✔️ Exploring the Old Town: Free to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
✔️ Salt pans tour: Around €5–7 if you want to learn about the town’s salt production history.
🚗 How to get there
Ston is about:
✔️ 1 hour by car from Dubrovnik
✔️ 1.5 hours from Split
I highly recommend renting a car with Trip.com to enjoy the scenic coastal drive along the Dalmatian coast.
🌊 Why I loved it
Walking the massive walls, with the sea breeze in my hair and the sound of waves below, felt like discovering a secret side of Croatia. It’s peaceful, authentic, and far from the tourist crowds.
📌 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a quiet stroll through the fortress while the sun sets over the Adriatic.