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Dubrovnik (in my humble opinion) is one of the most stunning ports in the Adriatic, but as it’s a draw for tourists (couple the Game of Thrones connection and it’s UNESCO-listed status) this means it can also be one of the most expensive ports to visit on your cruise. Prices for attractions, food, and transport can peak in summer, however, with some forward planning (and by using my tips below) you can enjoy a memorable day without overspending.
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Walk or Take the Bus Instead of Using Ship Shuttles
Most cruise ships will dock at Gruž Port, which is about 3 km from the Old Town. Many cruise lines offer paid shuttles, or you can take a taxi which can cost anywhere between 10- 20 Euros per person, but here’s how you can save:
Take the public bus (Lines 1, 1A, 1B or 3) for just a couple of Euros per person each way. This route will take you directly from Gruž Port to Pile Gate, the main Old Town entrance.
If the weather is pleasant, you might want to walk. The 30 – 40-minute stroll along the waterfront is scenic and free.
If you do want to take a taxi, then consider using Uber/Bolt which are often cheaper than the taxis waiting at the port and the pricing is more transparent.
Buy the Dubrovnik Pass
If you plan to visit the City Walls, Dubrovnik’s top (and priciest) attraction, consider purchasing the Dubrovnik Pass. The 1-day pass usually costs about the same as a single ticket for the City Walls, but it also includes several museums and unlimited use of public buses. Not only does this saves money but it will also save you time, as you won’t need to queue for multiple tickets.
Eat Outside the Old Town Walls
Don’t get me wrong – there are some lovely restaurants on the Stradun (see this guide for the ones I’d recommend) but as they have a captive audience, they can also be pricey. For more budget-friendly meals head just outside Pile Gate or into local neighbourhoods for cheaper cafés and bakeries. Burek (savoury pastry), pizza slices, or gelato and worth getting for some quick and tasty food to go.
Take a Refillable Water Bottle
You are also going to drink A LOT of water while you are in port so pack a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the many public water fountains in or near the Old Town. Tap water in Dubrovnik is completely safe for drinking and this includes the water in the public water fountains.
If you do want to purchase bottled water or snacks head to a local supermarket – such as one in Gruž Port – to stock up rather than inside the Old Town.
Public Water Fountains In Dubrovnik
💧Amerling Fountain / Jewish Fountain (In the square before entering Pile Gate),
💧Onofrio's Large Fountain (Near the entrance to Pile Gate)
💧Lionhead fountain (Near the Monument of Ivan Gundulić on Market Square)
💧Small Onofrio's Fountain (Near the Clock Tower at the opposite end of the Stradun to Onofrio's Large Fountain)
Time Your Visit to the City Walls
The City Walls are a must if you’re visiting for the first time, but they’re busiest mid-morning when tour groups arrive. By visiting early morning (right when they open) or late afternoon gives you cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
You’ll save on extras like drinks, as you won’t need to buy expensive refreshments from sellers on the Walls if you bring your own water.
Skip Expensive Tours and Go DIY
Many cruise lines sell guided excursions, but Dubrovnik is one of the easiest cities to explore independently. For example, the Old Town is compact and walkable just start at Pile Gate and wander. I’ve put some free walking tours below or you can download a self-guided walking tour map or use a travel app for a free audio guide.
If you do want to explore with the help of a local guide to point out things you might miss if exploring on your own then GetYourGuide is a good option.
Walking Guides
Limit Souvenir Spending
Shops in the Old Town often cater to tourists with inflated prices. So skip the mass-produced trinkets (that are often imported) and look for authentic items like lavender sachets, olive oil, or locally made soaps from markets rather than glossy boutiques. There are some lovely vendors in the Market Square which are worth seeking out.
Bring Essentials with You
Last-minute, overpriced purchases in port can be avoided by packing a reusable water bottle, a sun umbrella and small change for bus tickets and tips so that you don’t pay the extortionate exchange and commission rates by withdrawing cash form the bright ATMs in the Old Town.
Make the Most of Dubrovnik’s Free Experiences
Some of Dubrovnik’s best experiences actually cost nothing – such as wandering the Stradun and narrow side streets, Visiting churches such as St Blaise’s or the Cathedral, or finding a quiet perch on the cliffs near Buža Gate to admire the Adriatic or head to Šulić beach for a refreshing swim.
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