Arriving in Dubrovnik on a cruise? Let me guide you on how to enjoy the best of this stunning city during your short stay! Dubrovnik is one of the Mediterranean’s most popular cruise ports, which means it’s a fantastic destination for its beauty and history – but also means it’s often bustling with visitors. Don’t worry though, I have some tips to help you navigate the crowds and experience the charm of this city to the fullest.
How to Get to Dubrovnik’s Old Town
Dubrovnik has two main ports: the Port of Gruz and the Old Town port. If your cruise ship docks at the Old Town port, you’re in the perfect location! The tender boats bring you directly to the center of Dubrovnik, and you’ll find yourself just steps away from the iconic Stradun, the main street of the Old Town. No need for transportation – you’re right in the heart of the city, ready to start exploring!
If you’re docking at Port of Gruz, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to get to the city center. Most cruise companies provide shuttle services to Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. This ride takes around 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Alternatively, you can take a local bus. The 1A, 1B, and No. 3 lines run directly to Pile. Tickets cost about 2 EUR (15 HRK), and you can buy them at the kiosk or directly on the bus. Once you disembark, just hop off at the last stop and you’ll see the Old Town entrance ahead of you.
When Is the Best Time to Explore Dubrovnik?
To avoid the crowds, try to head into the city early. Most cruise ships arrive around 10:00 am, so getting there before that will allow you to enjoy Stradun and other sights at a more relaxed pace. If your ship arrives later in the day, don’t worry – most visitors will have left by the afternoon, leaving you to explore the city in peace.
If your cruise leaves around 11:00 am, I recommend taking a trip to nearby Cavtat for lunch and returning to Dubrovnik around 2:30 pm when the crowds have thinned out.
Important Information for Booking Your Excursion or Walking Tour
When you want to book an excursion or walking tour in Dubrovnik, it’s very important to let us know the specific ship you’re arriving on. This will help us know which port your cruise ship is docking at so we can plan the best excursion time and location for you. By providing us with this information, we can ensure that your trip is as smooth and well-organized as possible.
To help you plan ahead, you can check the schedule for all cruise ship arrivals at the Port of Dubrovnik. Here, you’ll be able to see exactly which port your ship will be arriving at, and from there, you can know where you will be docking. You can visit the official Dubrovnik Port website for more details.
Whether you arrive early or later, Dubrovnik will surely impress. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the rich history and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site!
Ready to explore Dubrovnik with a local guide? Join us for one of our walking tours and make the most of your time here. We’ll take you on a personalized journey through the Old Town, sharing insider tips and stories about Dubrovnik’s fascinating past. Book your tour today!