The Port of Dubrovnik, known locally as Luka Gruž, is a major cruise and ferry port situated on the stunning Adriatic coast of southern Dalmatia. It serves as the primary maritime gateway to the city and the surrounding region. The port is located in a naturally sheltered harbor about 3 km from the famous walled Old Town, ensuring safe anchorage and docking.
As one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Mediterranean, the port has been modernized to accommodate several large ships simultaneously. Its significance lies in providing direct access for thousands of visitors each day to the city's immense historical and cultural treasures, making it a crucial component of Dubrovnik's tourism-based economy.
The primary attraction is the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most iconic activity is walking the magnificent Walls of Dubrovnik, which offer stunning views of the city's red rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. The full circuit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
Inside the walls, the main thoroughfare is the limestone-paved Stradun, lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes. For the best panoramic photos, take the Dubrovnik Cable Car up to Mount Srđ. From the cruise port, the Old Town is a 10-15 minute bus or taxi ride away.
Be sure to also visit Lovrijenac, a formidable fortress located just outside the western city walls, often called "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar" for its strategic location on a high cliff.
Last updated on June 20, 2025
A popular and very close destination is the island of Lokrum, a lush nature reserve located just a 15-minute ferry ride from the Old Town port. The island features a botanical garden, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery, and a small saltwater lake known as the "Dead Sea." Ferries depart regularly, making it an easy half-day excursion.
Another excellent option is the charming coastal town of Cavtat, situated about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Dubrovnik. Reachable in about 30-45 minutes by bus or water taxi, Cavtat offers a beautiful waterfront promenade, historical churches, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Old Town.
Last updated on June 20, 2025
Most cruise ships dock at the Port of Gruž, which is located in a protected bay about 3 kilometers (approximately 2 miles) northwest of the historic Old Town. Due to the distance, it is not considered easily walkable, and passengers will need to use transportation like a bus, shuttle, or taxi to reach the main attractions.
The Gruž port area has modern facilities including a passenger terminal with tourist information, ATMs, and souvenir shops. Just outside the port, you'll find an open-air market, cafes, and restaurants. During peak season, some of the largest cruise ships may anchor in the bay and use tender boats to bring passengers ashore, often dropping them closer to the Old Town's Pile Gate.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
As of January 2023, the official currency in Croatia is the Euro (EUR). While some vendors in highly touristed areas might have accepted other currencies in the past, it is now essential to use Euros for all transactions.
Credit cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels. For cash, ATMs are readily available at the cruise terminal, near the Old Town entrances, and throughout the city. Currency exchange offices (Mjenjačnica) are also common, but ATMs usually offer a more favorable exchange rate.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
Dubrovnik is considered a very safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main areas, including the Old Town and the port vicinity, independently during the day and evening.
The primary safety concern is petty crime, such as pickpocketing, which can occur in very crowded places like the Pile Gate entrance or along the busy Stradun. It is wise to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, the Old Town's cobblestone streets can be slippery and uneven, so wearing comfortable, sturdy walking shoes is highly recommended, especially when walking the city walls.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
Dubrovnik enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making for pleasant weather during the main cruise season from spring through autumn. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and sunny, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) and very little rainfall.
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are milder and very comfortable for sightseeing, with temperatures between 15°C and 22°C (59°F to 72°F), though there is a greater chance of rain showers. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. A light jacket or sweater is advisable for cooler evenings, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
The main cruise port in Gruž is located about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Old Town, so transportation is generally required. The most efficient and economical way to reach the main attractions is by public bus.
The local bus company, Libertas, operates frequent services. Look for bus lines 1A, 1B, or 3, which run directly from the bus stop near the port to the Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town. Tickets can be purchased at nearby kiosks (tisak) or from the driver. Taxis are also readily available at a designated stand at the port, though they are a more expensive option. You can find more information at the official Libertas Dubrovnik website.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
The best shopping is found within the walled Old Town, particularly along the main street, Stradun, and the labyrinth of narrow side streets branching off it. Here you will find a mix of souvenir shops, artisan boutiques, and international brands.
Look for local specialties such as handmade filigree jewelry, products made from lavender, local olive oil, and regional wines. A unique and traditional Croatian souvenir is the cravat (necktie), which originated here. While prices in boutiques are fixed, you may find some room for light bargaining at the open-air market in the Gruž port area. Non-EU residents may be eligible for a VAT refund on larger purchases, so ask for the necessary forms when shopping.
Last updated on June 16, 2025
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
The best way to reach Dubrovnik's Old Town from the Gruž cruise port (about 3km away) is by local bus (lines 1A, 1B, 1C, or 3) or taxi/ride-sharing services.
Must-see attractions include the Old Town Walls, Stradun (main street), Rector's Palace, Sponza Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery, all within the pedestrian-only Old Town.
Try fresh seafood, black risotto (crni rižot), or peka (meat/seafood slow-cooked under a dome); numerous restaurants (konobas) in the Old Town offer these.
The local currency is Euro (1 USD = 0.86 EUR). ATMs are widely available throughout Dubrovnik, including near the port and in the Old Town; currency exchange offices (Mjenjačnica) are also common, but ATMs usually offer better rates.
Cruises typically visit from spring to autumn, with warm, sunny weather (20-30°C/68-86°F); pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
Banje Beach is the closest popular beach to the Old Town, reachable by a short walk; Lapad Bay beaches are a short bus ride away and offer more variety.
Walking tours of the Old Town and Game of Thrones tours are popular and can be booked independently or via cruise lines; consider boat trips to nearby islands like Lokrum for independent exploration.
Shop for local crafts, lace, olive oil, wine, and traditional Konavle embroidery along Stradun and its side streets in the Old Town.
Consider a boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, Šipan) or a day trip to Cavtat, a charming coastal town south of Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik was one of the first states in the world to abolish the slave trade in 1416 and had a sophisticated quarantine system as early as 1377.
Prices are around steady throughout the year. Overall Dubrovnik is extremely inexpensive compared to other ports. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises from Dubrovnik.
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