# Dubrovnik Airport Transfer Guide (DBV) Practical guide to getting from Dubrovnik Airport to the Old Town and hotels. Real pricing, transport options, and what to expect on arrival. **Airport:** DBV **City:** Dubrovnik **Country:** Croatia **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv **Last updated:** 2026-02-17 --- ## Main Guide ### Quick answer Dubrovnik Airport is 21 km southeast of the Old Town, near the village of Cilipi. The drive takes 25-40 minutes. A taxi costs around 250-350 HRK / 33-47 EUR to the Old Town area. The Atlas airport shuttle bus runs for about 55 HRK / 7 EUR per person. Pre-booked transfers typically cost 30-45 EUR. Since Croatia joined the eurozone, all prices are now in EUR. There is no rail connection, and Uber works but with limited availability. 👉 AirportTransferPortal offers fixed-price transfers on this route, which removes uncertainty on arrival. --- ### What actually happens after landing Dubrovnik Airport has a single terminal that was expanded in recent years. It handles the summer crush reasonably well, though it does get crowded when multiple flights arrive together during peak season (June through September). For EU/EEA passport holders, immigration is fast. Non-EU travelers should expect 15-30 minutes during busy periods. Croatia joined the Schengen Area, so if arriving from another Schengen country, there is no passport control. Baggage claim has a few carousels. Luggage delivery is generally prompt. Once through, you enter a small arrivals hall with car rental desks, an ATM, and tourist information. The exit leads directly to the transport area. --- ### Transport options explained honestly **Atlas airport shuttle bus** is the most popular budget option. Buses are timed to flight arrivals and drop off at the Pile Gate (Old Town entrance) and the main bus station. The fare is about 7 EUR per person. Journey time is 30-40 minutes. Tickets can be bought at the counter in arrivals or on the bus. The downside is that it only goes to two stops - if your hotel is elsewhere, you need a second taxi. **Taxis** queue outside the terminal. Fares to the Old Town are fixed at around 33-47 EUR depending on the exact destination. The taxis are modern and air-conditioned. There is no negotiation - prices are standardized. **Pre-booked private transfers** provide a driver waiting for you at arrivals. You go directly to your accommodation, whether that is in the Old Town, Lapad, Babin Kuk, or somewhere along the coast. Prices are 30-45 EUR to most Dubrovnik destinations. **Uber** operates in Dubrovnik but with limited driver numbers. The fare to the Old Town is typically 25-35 EUR, cheaper than an airport taxi. However, availability is unreliable at the airport, especially when multiple flights land together and everyone opens their apps. **Rental cars** are available at the airport. Note that parking in Dubrovnik is extremely limited and expensive, particularly near the Old Town. Unless you plan to explore beyond the city, a car may create more problems than it solves. --- ### Realistic pricing expectations To Old Town / Pile Gate: 7 EUR by shuttle bus, 25-35 EUR by Uber, 33-45 EUR by taxi, 30-45 EUR by transfer. To Lapad / Babin Kuk: Not served by shuttle, 25-35 EUR by taxi, 25-40 EUR by transfer. To Cavtat (nearby coastal town, 6 km from airport): 15-20 EUR by taxi, 12-20 EUR by transfer. To Ston / Peljesac Peninsula (60 km): 80-110 EUR by transfer. To Kotor, Montenegro (95 km): 120-160 EUR by transfer. Cross-border transfers are available but confirm in advance. To Split (230 km): Not practical by taxi. Transfer runs 250-350 EUR. Most people fly or take a bus. --- ### Late night arrivals During summer, flights arrive until late evening, some past midnight. The airport stays open for scheduled flights. The Atlas shuttle bus runs for the last arriving flights, but check the schedule - it does not operate indefinitely. Late arrivals may find the last bus has departed. Taxis are available after late flights, though the number of cars diminishes. Uber availability is even more limited late at night in Dubrovnik. For flights arriving after 10 PM, a pre-booked transfer is the most reliable choice. The driver commits to your specific flight, and the drive to the Old Town at that hour is quick - about 20-25 minutes with empty roads. --- ### Families and luggage The shuttle bus works for families but has limited luggage space in the hold. With a stroller, multiple suitcases, and children, the bus becomes less practical. Taxis at Dubrovnik Airport are modern sedans or minivans. A standard taxi fits a family of four with moderate luggage. For larger families, request a minivan. Child car seats are not standard in Croatian taxis. Bring your own travel seat or book a transfer service that provides one. Specify the child's age when booking. Note for Old Town accommodation: the Old Town is largely pedestrianized with steep steps and narrow alleys. Vehicles drop off at the gates. From there, you may need to walk with luggage through the Old Town to your apartment. Some properties arrange porter services - ask in advance. --- ### Where you meet the driver For pre-booked transfers, drivers hold name signs in the arrivals area just past the exit from baggage claim. The terminal is small, making them easy to spot. The taxi rank is directly outside the terminal exit, to the right. An attendant manages the queue during busy times. The shuttle bus stop is also outside the terminal, clearly signed. Buses wait until the arriving passengers have had time to collect luggage. For Uber, the pickup area is outside the terminal. Check the app for the driver's location. --- ### Decision helper **Choose the shuttle bus if:** you are traveling solo or as a couple, your accommodation is near the Old Town or bus station, you are on a budget, and you are arriving during the day. **Choose a taxi if:** you want door-to-door service without advance booking, you are staying in Lapad or another area not served by the shuttle, and you do not mind paying the fixed rate. **Choose a pre-booked transfer if:** you are traveling with family, arriving late, heading to a specific address, carrying heavy luggage, or want the simplest possible transition from airport to hotel. **Choose Uber if:** you get lucky with availability and want to save a few euros over a taxi. 👉 This is the lowest-friction option after a long flight. --- ### Summary Dubrovnik Airport is straightforward and modern. The 21 km distance to the Old Town means transport is a real consideration, not an afterthought. For budget solo travelers, the shuttle bus is excellent. For everyone else, the comfort and directness of a taxi or pre-booked transfer is worth the modest cost. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How far is Dubrovnik Airport from the Old Town?** About 21 km. The drive takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. **Q: Does Uber work at Dubrovnik Airport?** It exists but availability is unreliable, especially during peak season when demand outstrips the small driver pool. Do not rely on it as your only plan. **Q: How much is the airport shuttle bus in Dubrovnik?** About 7 EUR per person one way. Buses are timed to flight arrivals and go to Pile Gate and the main bus station. **Q: What currency does Croatia use?** Euro (EUR). Croatia switched from the Croatian Kuna to the Euro in January 2023. All prices are now in EUR. **Q: Can I get to Montenegro from Dubrovnik Airport?** Yes. Kotor is about 95 km and takes roughly 2 hours including the border crossing. Pre-booked transfers are available for this route, typically 120-160 EUR. **Q: Is there parking at Dubrovnik Old Town?** Very limited and expensive. If you are staying in the Old Town, a rental car is more of a burden than a benefit. Use transfers or taxis instead. **Q: Does the shuttle bus go to Lapad?** The shuttle stops at Pile Gate and the main bus station. Lapad is not a scheduled stop. From the bus station, you could take a local bus or taxi to Lapad. **Q: How do I get from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat?** Cavtat is only about 6 km from the airport. A taxi costs 15-20 EUR and takes about 10 minutes. Some local buses also serve this route. **Q: Can I walk with luggage through Dubrovnik Old Town?** The Old Town is pedestrianized with stone streets and many steps. Rolling suitcases can be difficult. Some properties offer porter services. Ask your accommodation about the walk from the nearest gate. **Q: Is Dubrovnik Airport modern?** Yes. The terminal was expanded and modernized in recent years. It is clean, well-organized, and has all the basic amenities including ATMs, car rental, and cafes. --- ## Additional Guides ### Arriving at Dubrovnik Airport Late at Night **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/late-night During the summer season, Dubrovnik Airport handles flights arriving late into the evening. Charter flights and low-cost carriers frequently land between 10 PM and midnight. Here is what the late-night experience looks like. ## The airport at night The terminal stays open for scheduled arrivals. Immigration and baggage claim operate as normal. The arrivals hall is functional with ATMs available. Most shops and food outlets close by late evening. The airport is quieter than during the afternoon peak, and immigration queues are shorter. If arriving from within the Schengen Area, there is no passport control at all. ## Shuttle bus availability The Atlas shuttle bus generally runs for the last scheduled flights of the day. However, this is worth confirming before you travel. If the last bus departs before your flight lands (or your flight is delayed past the last service), you will need an alternative. Do not count on the shuttle bus for flights landing after 11 PM without checking the specific schedule for your travel date. ## Taxis and Uber at night Taxis are available after late flights, but the pool of cars is smaller than during the day. When a large flight lands at 11 PM and 200 passengers all need rides, taxis cycle through but waits of 20-30 minutes are possible. Uber is even less reliable at night. Dubrovnik has a small number of Uber drivers, and many are off the road by late evening. ## The case for pre-booking A pre-booked transfer is the most reliable option for late-night arrivals in Dubrovnik. The driver is committed to your flight, they track arrival times, and they are there when you walk out. There is no queue, no app refreshing, and no wondering if a bus will show up. The drive to the Old Town takes about 20-25 minutes at night with no traffic. The coastal road is dark but well-maintained. An experienced local driver makes the journey routine. ## Arriving at the Old Town late Dubrovnik Old Town is quieter after midnight, but it is not deserted. Restaurants and bars in the summer stay open late. The gates to the Old Town remain open 24 hours. However, getting to your accommodation inside the Old Town at midnight with luggage deserves thought. The streets are stone-paved and many addresses involve steps. If your apartment is up a steep staircase, arriving at midnight with heavy bags is physical work. Ask your host about the access route and whether porter help is available. Some accommodation providers meet guests at the gate with keys and luggage help. Confirm this for late arrivals. ## Practical tips Have euros in cash for a taxi if needed. Card payment is accepted by most taxis but having cash as backup is sensible. Save your accommodation address and host's phone number offline. The cell signal along the airport road is fine, but having backup information is good practice. If you are staying in Lapad or Babin Kuk rather than the Old Town, late-night access is simpler - these areas have regular hotel entrances with 24-hour reception. --- ### Dubrovnik Airport: Shuttle, Taxi, or Private Transfer **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/taxi-vs-transfer Dubrovnik Airport offers three realistic transport options. No single one is best for everyone - it depends on your group size, destination, and priorities. ## The shuttle bus The Atlas shuttle runs from the airport to Pile Gate (Old Town) and the main bus station. Fare is about 7 EUR per person. Buses are scheduled around flight arrivals, so there is usually one waiting or departing shortly after you clear baggage claim. For solo travelers or couples heading to the Old Town, this is excellent value. The bus is air-conditioned and the journey takes 30-40 minutes. You can buy tickets at the counter in arrivals or on the bus. The limitations: it only serves two stops. If your hotel is in Lapad, Babin Kuk, or anywhere not walking distance from Pile Gate or the bus station, you need a second ride. With heavy luggage, the bus is less comfortable. And for families, the per-person pricing means a group of four pays 28 EUR - close to a taxi or transfer price for a less convenient service. ## Airport taxis Dubrovnik Airport taxis use fixed pricing to standard destinations. To the Old Town, expect 33-47 EUR. To Lapad about 30-40 EUR. The cars are modern, metered with fixed airport rates, and air-conditioned. The advantage over the shuttle: door-to-door service to any address, no schedule to worry about, and capacity for luggage. The cost is predictable. During peak summer afternoons, the taxi queue can involve a 15-20 minute wait when multiple flights land simultaneously. Early morning and late evening, there is usually no wait. ## Pre-booked private transfer A driver is assigned to your flight, waits in arrivals, and takes you directly to your accommodation. Pricing is similar to or slightly below taxi rates for most destinations - 30-45 EUR to the Old Town, 25-40 EUR to Lapad. The advantage is zero waiting. While others queue for taxis or wait for the shuttle, you find your driver and leave. For late arrivals, early morning departures, or groups who want certainty, this is the simplest option. Minivan transfers are available for larger groups, typically at a modest premium. ## Price comparison **Solo traveler to Old Town:** - Shuttle: 7 EUR (best value) - Uber: 25-35 EUR - Taxi: 33-45 EUR - Transfer: 30-45 EUR **Couple to Old Town:** - Shuttle: 14 EUR - Uber: 25-35 EUR - Taxi: 33-45 EUR - Transfer: 30-45 EUR **Family of four to Old Town:** - Shuttle: 28 EUR - Taxi: 33-45 EUR - Transfer: 30-45 EUR Note how the shuttle's value decreases as the group grows. For a family of four, the price difference between a shuttle and a private transfer can be under 15 EUR - but the transfer goes to your exact address. ## The practical recommendation Solo travelers and couples going to the Old Town: take the shuttle. It is hard to beat 7 EUR. Families, groups, or anyone going somewhere other than the Old Town: a taxi or transfer offers better value per-person and the convenience of door-to-door service. Late arrivals or early departures: pre-book a transfer. The shuttle may not be running and taxi availability drops outside normal hours. --- ### Getting from Dubrovnik Airport to Your Hotel with Kids **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/family-and-kids Dubrovnik is increasingly popular with families, and the airport handles the summer influx well. The journey from the airport to your accommodation is straightforward - the main family-specific challenge comes when you reach the Old Town itself. ## The airport with children Dubrovnik Airport is a single terminal, modern and compact. There is not much walking between the gate and the exit. Immigration is fast for EU passport holders and manageable for others. Restrooms are clean and available in the arrivals area. The terminal is air-conditioned. Outside, in summer, it is hot. Have water and sun hats ready for the short walk to your transport. ## Car seats Croatian law requires car seats for children under 150 cm in height. Airport taxis may or may not have them available. If you need a car seat, do not rely on finding one at the taxi rank. Pre-booked transfer services can provide car seats if requested at booking time. Specify the age and weight of your child. This is the most reliable way to ensure a seat is available. Alternatively, bring a travel car seat from home. It adds to your luggage but guarantees you have one for the entire trip. ## Vehicle size A standard taxi fits four passengers and a moderate amount of luggage. For a family of four with two large suitcases, carry-ons, and a stroller, it will be tight. Request a larger vehicle or book a minivan transfer. The shuttle bus has luggage space in the hold but getting a stroller on and off the bus with children is cumbersome. ## Getting to Old Town accommodation with kids This is the part that catches families off guard. Dubrovnik Old Town is largely pedestrianized. Cars cannot drive into it. Drop-off points are at the gates (Pile Gate or Ploce Gate), and from there you walk. The Old Town has narrow stone streets, steep stairways, and no wheeled access in many areas. If your apartment is up a hill or accessed by stairs, getting there with suitcases and children is genuinely hard work. Before booking Old Town accommodation, ask the host these questions: Which gate is closest? How many steps are there? Is the path stroller-accessible? Can they arrange someone to help with luggage? Some families are surprised to discover that the charming apartment they booked is up 60 stone steps from the nearest gate. With a sleeping toddler and two suitcases, this is not charming. ## Lapad and Babin Kuk as alternatives Many families stay in Lapad or Babin Kuk instead of the Old Town. These areas have conventional hotels with lobbies, elevators, and vehicle access to the door. The shuttle bus to the Old Town runs frequently, and the Old Town is a short taxi or bus ride away. Transfers to these areas from the airport are similar in price to Old Town transfers and significantly easier on arrival because you are dropped at your hotel entrance. ## Practical family tips Book a transfer with enough space and a car seat if needed. The 25-minute drive from the airport is the easy part. Research your accommodation access carefully if staying in the Old Town. The photos show beautiful stone buildings; they do not show the 40 steps to reach them. Bring a lightweight stroller if you are bringing one at all. The Old Town terrain defeats most full-size strollers. --- ### How Much It Costs to Get from Dubrovnik Airport to the City **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/cost-to-city Dubrovnik Airport transport pricing is relatively straightforward. Taxis use fixed airport rates, the shuttle has a set fare, and transfers are booked at a confirmed price. Here is what each option costs to common destinations. ## To Old Town / Pile Gate (21 km) - **Atlas shuttle bus:** 7 EUR per person. Drops off at Pile Gate and the bus station. - **Uber:** 25-35 EUR (when available). - **Airport taxi:** 33-47 EUR. Fixed rate depending on the exact drop-off point. - **Pre-booked transfer:** 30-45 EUR. Drive time: 25-40 minutes. ## To Lapad / Babin Kuk (18 km) - **Shuttle bus:** Not directly served. You would need to get off at the bus station and take a local bus or taxi. - **Airport taxi:** 30-40 EUR. - **Pre-booked transfer:** 25-40 EUR. Drive time: 20-35 minutes. ## To Ploce area (19 km) - **Airport taxi:** 30-42 EUR. - **Pre-booked transfer:** 28-40 EUR. Drive time: 20-35 minutes. ## To Cavtat (6 km) - **Airport taxi:** 15-20 EUR. - **Pre-booked transfer:** 12-20 EUR. - **Local bus:** About 2-3 EUR when available. Drive time: 10 minutes. Cavtat is the nearest town to the airport and a lovely alternative to staying in Dubrovnik itself. ## To Ston / Peljesac Peninsula (60 km) - **Pre-booked transfer:** 80-110 EUR. Drive time: About 60-75 minutes. ## To Kotor, Montenegro (95 km, cross-border) - **Pre-booked transfer:** 120-160 EUR. Allow extra time for the border crossing, which can take 30 minutes or more during summer. Total journey time: 2-3 hours including the border. ## To Mostar, Bosnia (140 km, cross-border) - **Pre-booked transfer:** 150-200 EUR. Journey time: 2.5-3.5 hours including border crossings (you cross into Bosnia and back into Croatia's Neum corridor, depending on the route). ## What affects the price **Group size** matters most for the shuttle bus. At 7 EUR per person, a family of four pays 28 EUR - nearly the same as a taxi that takes them to their door. **Destination** is the primary cost driver. The fixed taxi rates and transfer prices are zone-based. Closer destinations like Cavtat are cheap. Cross-border trips to Montenegro or Bosnia are significantly more expensive. **Time of day** has minimal impact on pricing. There are no official night surcharges for Dubrovnik taxis, though late-night transfers may carry a small premium. **Vehicle size** affects transfer pricing. A standard sedan for up to 3 passengers with luggage is the base rate. Minivan transfers for larger groups add about 10-20 EUR. ## Best value by situation **Budget solo traveler:** Atlas shuttle (7 EUR). **Couple to Old Town:** Shuttle (14 EUR total) or Uber if available (25-35 EUR for more convenience). **Family of four:** Transfer or taxi (30-45 EUR total vs 28 EUR on the shuttle, with door-to-door service). **Going to Cavtat:** Taxi (15-20 EUR, quick and simple). **Cross-border to Montenegro:** Transfer (only realistic option for a planned, smooth journey). --- ## Related Pages - [Main arrival guide](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv) - [Late night arrivals](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/late-night) - [Taxi vs transfer](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/taxi-vs-transfer) - [Family & kids](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/family-and-kids) - [Cost to city](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/dbv/cost-to-city) --- ## Check before you land 👉 This route is actively served by AirportTransferPortal with fixed-price booking available before arrival. Check real vehicles and prices before your flight. Booking takes a few minutes and ensures someone is waiting when you arrive. --- ## Operational Note This guide reflects real operational conditions, pricing ranges, and traveler experience at Dubrovnik (DBV). Transfer availability is supported by AirportTransferPortal's verified supplier network. --- ## Attribution Published by AirportTransferPortal (airporttransferportal.com), a global airport transfer marketplace operated by Funny Tourism Ltd.