Port of Dubrovnik Overview
Dubrovnik’s cruise port sits in Gruž, about 10–15 minutes by bus or taxi from the Old Town. Most visitors spend the day walking the walls, exploring stone lanes, or taking a short boat ride to Lokrum.
A Little History
Dubrovnik (Ragusa) was a maritime republic rivaling Venice, built on trade and diplomacy. Earthquakes and conflicts reshaped parts, but its fortified Old Town largely survived. That walled city is now the main draw.
Museums
The Rector’s Palace, Cultural History Museum, and Maritime Museum are inside the Old Town. Many are compact and can be done in under an hour each. Most close one day a week or run shorter off-season hours.
- Tip: If it’s hot, do the city walls early, then duck into a museum for shade.
Major Parks and Attractions
Old Town walls offer top views and a full loop in 1.5–2 hours. Stradun (main street) runs between gates. Fort Lovrijenac sits just outside the walls on a rock. Lokrum Island is a short boat hop from the Old Port for shaded walks and swimming platforms.
Crowding is intense on heavy cruise days; stay patient and use side alleys to move faster.
Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)
Lokrum Island (half day), Mt Srđ by cable car for a viewpoint (1–2 hours), Cavtat (half day by boat or taxi), and a simple beach stop at Lapad (2–3 hours).
Shopping
Old Town has jewelry, ceramics, lavender products, and linen shops. Food shops sell local sweets and olive products.
- Note: Prices near Stradun are higher; shop in back lanes for better value.
Food and Drink
Expect seafood, grilled meats, pasta, and simple Adriatic dishes. Ice cream stands are everywhere. Tipping around 10 percent is common in sit-down restaurants.
Practical eating tips:
- Eat in alleys, not on Stradun, for quieter and better-priced meals.
- Book ahead if you want a popular seafood place for lunch.
- Walls in midday heat are punishing; eat or rest before heading up.
- Carry water; refill spots inside the Old Town are limited.
Currency, Payments, ATMs
Euro. Cards widely accepted. ATMs across town; avoid stand-alone, high-fee machines near the gates.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Shops typically run 9:00–21:00 in season. Museums vary by day; some close Monday. Cable car may pause for wind.
Holidays that may affect hours or services:
- Jan 1
- Easter Monday
- Jun 25 (Statehood Day)
- Aug 15
- Dec 25–26
Practical City Notes
Old Town streets are stone and slippery when wet. Steps are everywhere. Buses from Gruž to Old Town run frequently; buy tickets before boarding. English widely spoken.
Quick Plans
- 3–4 hours: Old Town walk plus Stradun and a short climb on part of the walls.
- 6–8 hours: Full city walls early, lunch in an alley, then cable car to Mt Srđ.
- Full day: Walls plus Lokrum Island or a combined Old Town and Cavtat boat trip.
Cruise Port Map
https://www.portdubrovnik.hr/information-for-vessel