DUBROVNIK AIRPORT TO OLD TOWN: A COMPLETE GUIDE

If you’re arriving in Dubrovnik by air, you’re probably wondering how to get from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town. This guide will tell you everything you need to know!

Dubrovnik is one of the most popular towns in Croatia, so it’s no surprise that thousands of travellers pass through Dubrovnik Airport daily during the summer season. This blog post will help you decide what to do once you land and make your journey to Old Town as smooth as possible. I’ve flown into Dubrovnik more than 10 times now, so I finally decided to write a detailed guide on everything you need to know about Dubrovnik Airport!

WHERE IS DUBROVNIK AIRPORT

Dubrovnik Airport is the main and only airport serving Dubrovnik. It’s located in Cilipi, about 20 km southeast of Dubrovnik and only 6 km from Cavtat. Its official name is Rudjer Boskovic Airport.

HOW TO GET FROM DUBROVNIK AIRPORT TO OLD TOWN

BY RENTAL CAR

If you’re coming for longer and are renting a car, you’ll simply pick up your vehicle and drive. Most rental companies are located in the parking lot just outside the airport. All you need to do is find the company you booked with and collect your car. The drive to the Old Town is easy and straightforward. It takes about 25 minutes on a good day, but it can be longer if there’s traffic.

However, be aware of the new traffic rules near the Old Town. From June 2025, the entire area around the Old Town is considered a restricted traffic zone. This means most vehicles cannot drive or park anywhere near the Old Town unless they have a special permit, which is usually reserved for locals.

You can only enter the zone and park there in the following situations:

• If your hotel or accommodation is within the restricted zone and provides parking (they must register your license plate!).
• If you have reserved a parking spot at Pile Parking or at the Zicara Donji Plato Parking (you can do that right here).

In any other case, do not risk driving into the restricted area, because the fines are extremely high and you’ll be charged every single time you pass through a zone where you’re not allowed. If you don’t know the rules, you could easily end up with multiple fines!

Here’s a link to Dubrovnik’s Tourist Board with more information, make sure you go through it if you plan on driving. I’d suggest you park outside the restricted zone and walk or grab a bus/Uber to your accommodation. Here’s a parking guide to help you find parking in Dubrovnik!

BY UBER/BOLT

Uber and Bolt are two of the most popular ride-sharing apps in Dubrovnik. There are plenty of drivers available, and you can be sure you’ll find one as soon as you land. It’s safe, comfortable, and usually more affordable than local taxis.

The ride from the airport to Old Town typically costs 25–40 €, depending on the time of day, the season, and how busy it is. This is usually my first choice if I don’t have someone picking me up because it’s simple and reliable!

BY TAXI

Taking a taxi is another easy option, but it’s usually more expensive than Uber or Bolt. Local taxis often start at 40 € and up, so make sure you ask for the price before getting in. The good thing is that you can get one much faster since they’re already lined up right outside the airport. Just decide what matters more to you, saving money or getting to Old Town quicker!

BY SHUTTLE

The shuttle is probably the best option if you’re looking for something budget-friendly. There’s a shuttle bus running throughout the day, leaving 30 minutes after each plane arrival. Tickets are 10 € one way and 15 € return, and the ride is quick and comfortable. If you’re going to the Old Town, you need to get off at the Ploce Gate stop, and if you’re traveling from the Old Town back to the airport, you’ll need to be at the Cable Car stop. You can buy tickets at the official kiosks at the airport or the Cable Car station, or even online! Here’s the official website of the company so you can read more info and buy your tickets in advance.

BY LOCAL BUS

There is an option to take a local bus to the Old Town, but it only works in certain situations. Three Libertas bus lines connect the airport area with Dubrovnik: 11, 27, and 38. However, they run only a few times a day, so their schedule often won’t match your arrival time.

If you really need a budget-friendly option (tickets are 4–5€, and you can buy them at a Libertas kiosk), check the schedules in advance to see if they work for you. If not, the shuttle bus is definitely the better and more reliable choice!

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER

Finally, if you don’t want to wait and you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, getting a private transfer might be the best option. They’re not that much more expensive (usually between 45–65€), and the biggest benefit is peace of mind. Someone will already be waiting for you, ready to take you straight to your accommodation without any stress. You can book a transfer online in advance, or simply ask your hotel or host to arrange one for you!

WHERE TO STAY NEAR DUBROVNIK AIRPORT

If you’re arriving late or leaving really early in the morning and want to stay close to the airport, your best option is definitely Cavtat. Cavtat is only 6 kilometers from Dubrovnik Airport, which means it takes no longer than 15 minutes to get there. This is a huge advantage during peak season when traffic jams are common, since there’s only one road leading to the airport and everyone uses it!

Here are some great accommodation options you can book for a night: Apartments Mira, Apartments Bell Memories, Villa Faggioni

DUBROVNIK AIRPORT TIP: ARRIVE EARLY AND CHECK IN ONLINE

Don’t leave for the airport late just because it’s small or only 30 minutes away. There’s only one road connecting Dubrovnik to the airport, and everyone uses it. During peak season, especially when several flights depart around the same time, traffic can get seriously backed up. There’s always the possibility of an accident or delay on the road, so give yourself extra time.

If you can, check in online. The check-in counters at Dubrovnik Airport almost always have long lines, especially for luggage drop-off. Even though security is usually quick, the wait at check-in can take much longer. If you’re flying outside the Schengen/EU area, keep in mind you’ll also need to go through border control, which adds even more time.

For all these reasons, it’s best to arrive early and avoid any stress. Dubrovnik Airport is small but incredibly busy during peak season, so don’t risk being late.

CONCLUSION: DUBROVNIK AIRPORT TO OLD TOWN

Getting from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town is quick and easy. I recommend taking an Uber or the budget-friendly shuttle bus. And when it’s time to leave Dubrovnik, just arrive at the airport early so your trip ends smoothly and without stress.