Port information & tips for Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, the glamorous "Pearl of the Adriatic", is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Mediterranean and enchants visitors with its incomparable historical splendor. The Dalmatian coastal city impresses with its location on the deep blue sea and an atmosphere of medieval flair, magnificent limestone buildings, and lively alleys. Absolute highlights include the UNESCO-listed Old Town with the famous Stradun promenade, the imposing City Walls, and the panoramic cable car up Mount Srđ. Cruise ships dock at the modern Port of Gruž, located about three kilometers from the historical center. Thanks to efficient shuttle buses, local bus connections, and taxis, guests can easily reach the Pile Gate, the main entrance to the fascinating Old Town, in just a few minutes.
The Port of Dubrovnik in the Gruž district is the central hub for cruise ships and impresses with its protected location and excellent connection to the historic Old Town. Thanks to the modern terminal and its direct proximity to the main bus station, embarkation is particularly convenient for guests from the DACH region.
Airplane
Dubrovnik International Airport (DBV) is located approximately 22 kilometers southeast of the port and is regularly served by major cities such as Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich. From the airport, you can easily reach the cruise terminal with the official airport shuttle, which takes you directly to the bus station in Gruž in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available to transport you directly to the ship in around 30 minutes.
Car
For travelers from Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, the route leads via the Croatian A1 motorway to the Ploče junction and continues along the scenic D8 coastal road directly to Dubrovnik. Secure long-term parking for cruise guests is available at the Port of Gruž, and some nearby hotels offer practical packages for parking your vehicle during the trip. Arrival is straightforward thanks to the well-developed infrastructure and clear signage towards Luka Dubrovnik.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the impressive UNESCO Old Town and often early embarkation times, it is worth arriving one to two days before the official start of the cruise. Accommodations in the districts of Gruž or Lapad are in the immediate vicinity of the port and allow for a relaxed morning without time pressure on the day of departure. Additionally, many hotels offer a direct shuttle service to the terminal and serve as an ideal starting point for exploring the historic city walls.
