Dubrovnik Airport to City Guide 2026: Taxis, Buses & Tips

Your Definitive 2026 Guide to Dubrovnik Airport Transfers

Welcome to Dubrovnik! After landing at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), officially known as Čilipi Airport, your first task is navigating the 22-kilometer journey to the stunning city center. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of all your transport options, complete with 2026 prices, travel times, and insider tips to ensure your Croatian adventure starts smoothly.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to the City: Your 2026 Options at a Glance

Choosing the right transfer depends on your budget, group size, and preference for convenience. The main options are the highly efficient airport shuttle bus, local public buses, official taxis, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt, and pre-booked private transfers. Each offers a different balance of cost, speed, and comfort.

Option 1: The Official Airport Shuttle Bus (Platanus)

The most popular and cost-effective method for most travelers is the official airport shuttle bus, operated by the company Platanus. It’s reliable, comfortable, and perfectly synchronized with flight arrivals.

Shuttle Bus Operator and Schedule

The shuttle service is designed to meet passenger demand. A bus is scheduled to depart approximately 30-45 minutes after the arrival of every scheduled flight. This means you won't have a long wait, even if your flight is slightly delayed. The service runs throughout the day, from the first flights in the morning to the last ones at night.

Shuttle Bus Ticket Price & Purchase Locations

As of early 2026, the expected ticket prices are:

• One-way: €10
• Return: €14 (a good value if you plan to use it for your departure)

You can purchase tickets easily at several locations: 1. Platanus Kiosk: Located just outside the arrivals hall in the airport terminal. They accept cash (EUR) and credit cards. 2. Online: You can pre-book your tickets on the official Platanus website to save time. 3. Directly from the Driver: If the kiosk is busy, you can often buy a ticket from the driver, though card payment may not always be available here.

Shuttle Bus Stops in Dubrovnik

The bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. It makes two key stops: 1. Pile Gate: This is the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town and the final stop for the bus. This is the stop for 90% of tourists staying in or near the historic center. 2. Main Bus Station (Gruž Port): The bus stops here first. Get off here if you are staying in the Gruž, Lapad, or Babin Kuk areas, or if you are catching a ferry to one of the islands.

Option 2: Local Public Transport (Libertas Buses)

For the absolute budget traveler, local buses operated by Libertas offer the cheapest route, but with significant trade-offs in convenience.

Which Bus Lines to Take?

The bus stop for local lines is on the main road just outside the airport complex. You will need to walk a few hundred meters from the terminal. Lines 11, 27, and 38 connect the airport's vicinity with Dubrovnik. However, none of these lines go directly to the Old Town (Pile Gate). You will need to get off at the main bus station in Gruž and then take a city bus (like 1A, 1B, or 3) to Pile Gate, requiring a second ticket.

Cost and Ticket Information

A single journey ticket costs around €4 - €5. While cheap, the infrequency of these services (they run roughly once per hour and less on weekends) and the need for a transfer make this a challenging option, especially with luggage.

Is the Local Bus a Good Idea?

Honestly, for most tourists, the local bus is not recommended. The small saving of €5 is not worth the extra 45-60 minutes of travel time, the hassle of transferring with bags, and the uncertainty of the schedule. The airport shuttle is a far superior choice for a minimal extra cost.

Option 3: Taxis at Dubrovnik Airport

For maximum speed and door-to-door convenience, a taxi is an excellent choice. The official taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal.

Estimated Taxi Fare to Dubrovnik Old Town

The fare is metered, but you should expect the price to be between €45 and €60 for a one-way trip to the Old Town area. Prices can be slightly higher at night or during peak summer traffic. Always confirm with the driver that the meter will be used or agree on a fixed price before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.

Travel Time

A taxi is the fastest option, typically taking just 25-30 minutes to reach the city walls, bypassing any intermediate stops.

Option 4: Ride-Sharing (Uber & Bolt)

Ride-sharing services are fully operational in Dubrovnik and offer a competitive alternative to traditional taxis.

Availability and Pickup Zones

Both Uber and Bolt are available for pickup at Dubrovnik Airport. After collecting your luggage, open the app of your choice to request a ride. The designated pickup area is usually located in the main passenger pick-up lane just outside the terminal. The app will direct you to the exact spot.

Price Comparison vs. Taxis

Typically, Uber and Bolt are slightly cheaper than official taxis. You can expect a fare in the range of €35 - €50. However, be aware of surge pricing during peak arrival times or high-demand periods, which can sometimes make them as expensive as a taxi. The main benefit is knowing the exact fare before you confirm your ride.

Option 5: Pre-Booked Private Transfers

For a completely stress-free arrival, especially for families, larger groups, or those with a lot of luggage, a pre-booked private transfer is the premium choice.

Benefits of a Private Transfer

The advantages are significant: a driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, they will assist with your luggage, and you will be taken directly to your hotel or apartment in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The price is fixed, so you don't have to worry about traffic or meters.

Average Cost and How to Book

Prices for a standard sedan for up to 3 people range from €40 to €70. You can book these services online through various platforms like Welcome Pickups, Suntransfers, or local Dubrovnik-based transfer companies. Booking at least 24 hours in advance is recommended.

Insider Tips for Your Dubrovnik Airport Arrival

• Currency: While Croatia is in the Eurozone, it's wise to have some small cash on hand. There are ATMs and a currency exchange office in the arrivals hall, but the rates might not be the best. An ATM is usually a better option than the exchange desk.
• Dubrovnik Pass: You can purchase a Dubrovnik Pass at a kiosk in the airport. If you plan on walking the City Walls and visiting multiple museums, buying it here can save you time later.
• Traveling to Cavtat: If your destination is the nearby town of Cavtat, a taxi or Uber is your best bet. It's a short 10-minute drive and will cost around €15-€20.
• Late Night Arrivals: If you are arriving on a late-night flight, the shuttle bus may have limited service. It is highly recommended to pre-book a transfer or be prepared to take a taxi/Uber to ensure you can get to your accommodation without a long wait.

Getting Back to the Airport from Dubrovnik City

The process is just as simple in reverse. The Platanus airport shuttle bus departs from two locations: 1. Main Bus Station (Gruž Port): This is the first departure point. 2. Pile Gate: The bus stop is located just across from the main gate, near the taxi rank. There's a small ticket kiosk there.

Buses typically start running around 4:00 AM and leave on a regular schedule, generally every hour or aligned with flight departures. Always check the Platanus website for the most current timetable before your departure day.