Transfers to/from Dubrovnik

Arriving or leaving Dubrovnik by plane? No need to worry. Plan your transfer in Dubrovnik so you'll be well prepared for your adventure.

Ana Caballero

Ana Caballero

9 min read

Transfers to/from Dubrovnik

Plane landing at Dubrovnik airport | Personas en el aeropuerto |©Wolfgang Tiemann

To get around Dubrovnik and enjoy the best things this city has to offer, you need to choose a method of transport that suits your needs. You should take into account the number of people travelling with you and the size of your luggage. Consider also that the airport is only 20 kilometres from the centre of Dubrovnik so it will be a quick trip when travelling to and from Dubrovnik.

You can travel by private transport, bus or taxi. All forms of transport have their own advantages. In addition, you can take into account other factors such as the price of each type of service in order to make the right choice.

1. A private transfer: exclusive and comfortable

Dubrovnik international airport|©modly
Dubrovnik international airport|©modly

Dubrovnik Airport is only half an hour away from the city centre, so hiring a private transfer can be a good option. The price of this type of transfer will depend on the model of the car and the number of seats. In any case, this is the most comfortable and safest way to get to your hotel.

Although it is not the cheapest form of transfer, it has many advantages. After a long flight you don't have to arrive at the airport looking for transport. Instead, you can arrive directly at the place indicated by the transfer company. Normally the driver will wait for you inside the airport with a sign that should have your name written on it.

As it is a private vehicle, you are free to request one that has enough space for you and your group. I recommend this option if you plan to travel with more than three people as together you can split the cost and travel comfortably.

Travelling in a private vehicle is ideal for arriving on time and discovering all the secrets of this city on the Adriatic Sea by taking part in some of the best boat tours in Dubrovnik.

Interesting details

  • Duration of the trip: about 30 minutes.
  • Price: approximately 20 €.
  • Advantages of using this method: you won't have to worry about inconveniences as the private company will take care of everything. They are usually punctual and responsible.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: you need to book in advance. It can be expensive if you are travelling alone.
  • How to book this transport: to book you need to contact the company one or two days in advance.
  • Recommended if... you want to travel without worries and receive help with your luggage.

Book a transfer to and from Dubrovnik airport

2. By private bus: shared and comfortable transport

Croatia: Dubrovnik|©3rk
Croatia: Dubrovnik|©3rk

If you don't have enough money for a private transfer but still want to travel comfortably, I have the best option for you! From Dubrovnik airport you can travel by private bus. The Platanus Shuttle Bus is the official airport bus and is cheaper than a private transfer. If you buy two trips you can get a discount.

This bus takes you directly to the Old Town of Dubrovnik. The stop is specifically at Ploče gate, the eastern gate of the old part of the city. It then continues its journey to the main station which is located away from the centre. I recommend you check where your hotel is so you know where to get off.

I also suggest you check the bus timetable on their website and calculate your waiting time from the moment you arrive at the airport. You can also use this timetable as a guide when you need to leave the city. Be aware that you may have to wait up to an hour and in some cases you may have to run to avoid missing the bus. Keep these details in mind to choose the option that suits you best.

Details of interest

  • Journeytime: around 1 hour or more depending on waiting time.
  • Price: around €10.
  • Advantages of using this method: these buses usually have WiFi and comfortable seats, so the journey to your destination will be smooth and safe.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: be aware that the bus will not take you to your hotel, so you may have to take a taxi in the centre.
  • How to book this transport: you must go to the website and buy your ticket.
  • Recommended if... your hotel is close to the downtown bus stop and you don't mind sharing your transport with strangers.

Book a transfer from and to Dubrovnik Airport

3. By public bus: less comfortable, but economical option

Bus at Cavtat|©T.C.M.
Bus at Cavtat|©T.C.M.

Among the cheapest options is the public bus. The journey on them can take around 40 minutes or less. The price of these trips is very low compared to the rest of the options in this list, so it's a good option if you want to save some money. However, in order to use it you must be very clear about which area of the city you want to go to, as you must choose between lines 11, 27 and 38.

Please note that these lines stop at Pile Gate, the western gateway to the old part of Dubrovnik. In order to better plan your trip, I recommend you to check the timetables on the Libertas Dubrovnik website. However, be aware that the waiting time can be quite long, so be prepared.

On the other hand, the public bus is not the best option if you are carrying a lot of luggage. It can be a bit cumbersome to board the bus and find a place for each bag. I recommend this option if you are travelling light. It's even good if you want to get straight to exploring the Old Town.

Knowing how to use the city's public bus will put you at an advantage for the rest of the days. You'll be able to use it at any time and you'll save money, as the other option for getting around the city is by taxi, which tends to be much more expensive. If you learn how to get around by bus you can even go out and enjoy the things to do at night in Dubrovnik without getting lost and always get to your destination without any problems.

Interesting details

  • Travel time: about 1 hour.
  • Price: around 4 €.
  • Advantages of using this method: it is an economical option and you will get to know the locals from the very first moment of your stay in the city.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: It can be difficult or uncomfortable to travel with a lot of luggage on a public bus.
  • How to book this transport: No reservations are needed.
  • Recommended if... you want to save some money.

4. Uber: order transport from your phone

person holding mobile phone|© Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦
person holding mobile phone|© Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Ordering an Uber is the easiest option on this list, but not the safest. Although the app gives you the option to book in advance, the driver is free to cancel the trip if they wish. It can be a good last minute option.

If you are travelling in late June, July or August, you will be in high season in this city. Therefore it will be a bit more difficult to get an Uber. You should bear this in mind so that you have a second option in case it doesn't work out. The price of an Uber ride can vary depending on the number of seats in the car. If you are travelling with more people you can split the total amount and save a little.

The great advantage of this type of transfer is that you can ask for a ride right to the entrance of your hotel. This way you can get there quickly and safely. In addition, using the Uber app on your trip can help you to enjoy all the activities Dubrovnik has to offer. You can request a car from anywhere in the city as long as you have a signal.

Useful details

  • Journeytime: about 1 hour.
  • Price: from 40 €.
  • Advantages of using this method: no need to book and you can request an Uber at any time and place.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: the quality of service you receive will depend on the driver who comes for you, as they do not have an internal policy.
  • How to book this transport: you can book on the app but it is not compulsory. Simply enter the app, mark the location of your destination and wait.
  • Recommended if... you don't want to pay for a private transfer in advance.

Jointhe best activities in Dubrovnik

5. Taxi: last minute private option

black taxi on the street|©GO Montenegro
black taxi on the street|©GO Montenegro

Taking a taxi is probably the most traditional option for travelling from the airport to the centre of Dubrovnik and back. This option works very similarly to private transfers, except that you can hire one without having to make a reservation in advance. Travel time to the centre is less than an hour.

If you are travelling to Dubrovnik with children, taking a taxi or private transport can be a good option. You will avoid a lot of stress and can be at your hotel as soon as possible. In addition, these private services often offer special seats for babies, in case you are travelling with them.

Another great advantage of taxis is that these drivers usually follow a private company policy that requires them to provide good customer service. Therefore, they will be kind to you and will help you with your luggage if necessary. You can also choose the vehicle of your choice with the number of seats you need.

One of the companies offering this service is Dubrovnik Airport Taxi. However, you will find other options at the airport. You can compare prices and choose the one that suits you best.

Interesting details

  • Journeytime: less than 1 hour.
  • Price: from 50 €.
  • Advantages of using this method: private taxi drivers usually offer good service and customer care.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: It can be more expensive, but it is possible to find affordable options.
  • How to book this transport: It is possible to book in advance by contacting the company. However, you can request a taxi as soon as you arrive at the airport.
  • Recommended if... you want a quality private service but could not book in advance.

6. Rent a car: more expensive but convenient option

blue car|© Jose Carbajal
blue car|© Jose Carbajal

If you plan to stay in Dubrovnik for more than seven days, I recommend you not only to find a transfer to and from the airport, but also to arrange your transfers in the city. For this you can rent a car that will allow you to move freely whenever you need to.

The cost per day of a rented car may increase depending on the model and the number of seats. To use this service it is necessary to book in advance. This way the company will have your car ready for you when you leave the airport.

Another aspect you should take into account is the papers you need to drive legally in Dubrovnik as a foreigner. This will depend on your nationality, if you are from Spain your driving licence will also be useful in Croatia. So you will have no excuse not to fall in love with this city.

Another important suggestion is to investigate different companies that offer this service. One of them is Car Flexi. On their website you can compare prices and offers to choose the most ideal one for you.

Interesting details

  • Duration of the trip: less than 1 hour.
  • Price: from €40 per day.
  • Advantages of using this method: you will be your own driver and will be able to manage your time freely.
  • Disadvantages of using this method: you have to pay in advance and it is not the cheapest option.
  • How to book this transport: you need to contact the company in advance.
  • Recommended if... you don't want to depend on a private or public company to get to all the activities you have planned on time.

Here is a table comparing all options

Dubrovnik Airport|©kh1234567890
Dubrovnik Airport|©kh1234567890
  • An exclusive and comfortable private transfer
  • Duration of the trip: about 30 minutes.
  • Price: approximately 20 €.
  • Advantages: the private company takes care of everything.
  • Disadvantages: can be expensive if travelling alone.
  • By public bus, less comfortable but economical option.
  • Travel time: about 1 hour.
  • Price: around €4.
  • Advantages: inexpensive.
  • Disadvantages: it can be difficult or uncomfortable to travel with a lot of luggage.
  • By private bus, shared and comfortable transport
  • Journey time: about 1 hour or more.
  • Price: around €10.
  • Advantages: WiFi and comfortable seats are common.
  • Disadvantages: The bus will not take you to your hotel.
  • Uber, order transport from your phone
  • Journey time: about 1 hour.
  • Price: from 40 €.
  • Advantages: you can order an Uber at any time and any place.
  • Disadvantages: the quality of service you receive depends on the driver.
  • Taxi, last minute private option
  • Journey time: less than 1 hour.
  • Price: from €50.
  • Advantages: usually offer a good service.
  • Disadvantages: Can be more expensive.
  • Hiring a car, an expensive and convenient option.
  • Travel time: less than 1 hour.
  • Price: from €40 per day.
  • Advantages: you will be your own driver.
  • Disadvantages: you have to pay in advance.