Visiting Dubrovnik should be an unforgettable experience filled with stunning sights, rich history, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. However, emergencies can happen at any time, and knowing where to get medical help is essential. Whether you need urgent care, a hospital visit, or a simple check-up, Dubrovnik has a strong healthcare system to ensure your safety.

In this guide, we’ll cover emergency services in Dubrovnik, how to contact an ambulance, and where to find hospitals and private clinics for tourists.

Emergency Medical Services in Dubrovnik

If you experience a medical emergency in Dubrovnik, help is readily available. The city provides 24/7 emergency medical assistance, with hospitals, clinics, and ambulances designed to cater to both locals and tourists. Whether it’s a minor injury, sudden illness, or a more serious condition, knowing where to go can save valuable time.

Key Emergency Numbers in Dubrovnik

• 112 – European Emergency Number (ambulance, police, fire department)
• 194 – Direct number for medical emergencies in Croatia
• 195 – Search and Rescue at sea
• 192 – Croatian police hotline

If you’re unsure which number to call, dial 112, and operators will direct you to the appropriate service. English-speaking operators are available to assist foreign visitors.

Hospitals & Clinics in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik offers public and private healthcare facilities, ensuring tourists receive quick medical assistance when needed.

Dubrovnik General Hospital (Opća bolnica Dubrovnik)

The main hospital in Dubrovnik, also known as St. Blaise General Hospital, provides emergency care 24/7. It is located in Medarevo, a short drive from the city center. The hospital is equipped with modern medical technology, specialized doctors, and a fully operational emergency department.

• Location: Medarevo, Dubrovnik
• Website: Dubrovnik General Hospital
• How to Get There: Take bus number 9 or a taxi.
• Services: Emergency care, surgery, internal medicine, pediatric services, and more.

Private Clinics in Dubrovnik

For non-emergency medical assistance, private clinics can provide faster service and specialized treatments. These facilities are often more accessible to tourists, with English-speaking doctors and shorter wait times.

Marin Med Clinic

Located in Gruž, near the Dubrovnik ferry port, Marin Med is a highly-rated private clinic offering emergency medical care, general practice, and specialized treatments.

• Location: Gruž, Dubrovnik
• Website: Marin Med Polyclinic
• Services: Emergency care, internal medicine, general check-ups, and COVID-19 testing.

Glavić Polyclinic

Situated in Babin Kuk, this clinic is known for neurological treatments, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation. It is also an excellent option for urgent medical care and specialist consultations.

• Location: Babin Kuk, Dubrovnik
• Website: Glavić Polyclinic
• Services: Emergency care, physiotherapy, neurology, diagnostics, and more.

How to Call an Ambulance in Dubrovnik

If you require immediate medical attention, you can call an ambulance by dialing 112 or 194. The ambulance services in Dubrovnik are well-equipped and operate 24/7.

What to Do When Calling an Ambulance

• Stay calm and speak clearly.
• Provide your location (hotel, landmark, or street name).
• Describe the emergency (symptoms, injury, or condition).
• Wait for confirmation before hanging up.

Ambulances in Dubrovnik are designed to reach tourists quickly, especially in the Old Town, where pedestrian-only zones require specialized emergency response teams.

Medical Assistance at Hotels

Many hotels in Dubrovnik have direct partnerships with private clinics and medical professionals. If you don’t require emergency services, ask your hotel reception for assistance. They can:

• Call an on-call doctor to visit your hotel room.
• Arrange transportation to the nearest hospital or private clinic.
• Provide first-aid assistance for minor injuries.

Before traveling, check if your travel insurance covers hotel doctor visits.

Preventing Medical Emergencies in Dubrovnik

While Dubrovnik is a safe destination, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and injuries from walking on slippery limestone streets are common issues for tourists.

Travel Safety Tips

• Stay hydrated – Bring a reusable water bottle.
• Wear sunscreen – The Adriatic sun is strong, even in spring and autumn.
• Wear comfortable shoes – The Old Town’s cobblestone streets can be slippery.
• Avoid overexertion – Especially when climbing city walls in summer.
• Carry basic medication – Bring painkillers, allergy meds, and motion sickness pills.

Do You Need Travel Insurance?

Yes! Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, doctor visits, and hospital treatments while in Dubrovnik. Before your trip, ensure your policy includes:

• Emergency medical expenses
• Hospitalization and ambulance transport
• Medical evacuation if needed
• Prescription medications

For EU citizens, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides basic medical coverage in Croatia, but additional insurance is recommended.

Final Thoughts

No one plans for an emergency while on vacation, but knowing your options for medical assistance in Dubrovnik ensures peace of mind. Whether you need urgent hospital care, a private clinic, or a simple check-up, the city’s modern healthcare system is well-equipped to help tourists.

For more travel tips and local insights, visit Visite de Dubrovnik.

Safe travels and stay healthy in Dubrovnik!