Travelling to Dubrovnik by car gives you the freedom to explore the wider Dubrovnik region at your own pace. There are many small towns, viewpoints and beaches along the coast and inland that are easier to reach by car than by public transport.
Parking, however, can be a challenge, especially if you are staying in or near the Old Town where spaces are limited and often reserved for residents. Before you commit to bringing a car, always check with your accommodation whether parking is available on-site or nearby and whether it is included in the price.
Dubrovnik by car - is it a good idea?
Bringing a car to Dubrovnik makes the most sense if you plan a wider road trip through Croatia or want to visit nearby places that are not always well connected by bus or boat. If you are staying in areas like Lapad, Babin Kuk or Gruž, a car can also be useful for shopping, beach visits and day trips.
If your visit is short and focused mainly on the Old Town and nearby islands, a car can quickly become an unnecessary expense. Traffic is often slow in high season, you will not use the car inside the Old Town, and parking close to the center is limited and expensive compared to other Croatian cities.
- Good idea: exploring Konavle and Cavtat, the Pelješac Peninsula, coastal villages and viewpoints, or continuing a longer Croatian road trip.
- Not ideal: short Old Town stays, peak-season weekends, accommodation without private parking, or trips focused mainly on the Old Town and island excursions.
If you mostly plan to stay in Dubrovnik itself, the local bus network and taxis are usually enough. For visitors who will be driving, we provide detailed parking guidance below. For more in-depth information about parking zones and rules, see the dedicated guide on Parking in Dubrovnik.
Main driving routes to Dubrovnik
You will most likely reach Dubrovnik from the north via Croatia’s motorway and coastal road network. The final approach into the city is typically along the Adriatic Highway (D8), which offers good road conditions but can be slow during peak season. The Pelješac Bridge now connects southern Croatia without passing through Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing a smoother and more predictable route.
Driving to Dubrovnik from other parts of Croatia
If you drive from Zagreb, Rijeka or Istria, you will use the A1 motorway for most of the journey before switching to the coastal road for the final stretch. Travelling from Split is straightforward: follow the A1 or the coastal D8 route south, then continue across the Pelješac Bridge toward Dubrovnik. Road quality is generally high, and motorway signage is clear and easy to follow.
Border crossings and neighboring countries
Arriving from Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro you should plan for standard border procedures, including valid passports and vehicle insurance documents. Some rental companies require prior permission to take the vehicle across borders, so it is important to confirm this when collecting the car. Border queues can be longer on weekends in summer, so allow extra time.
Tolls, road quality and driving times
Motorway sections in Croatia are tolled, while coastal roads are toll-free. The motorway is the fastest option for long-distance travel, but the coastal D8 route offers direct access to towns and viewpoints along the way. Driving times can vary significantly in July and August when traffic is heaviest, especially near major tourist centers. For the most reliable journey, plan extra time during peak hours and holiday weekends.
Old Town traffic restrictions (2025 rules)
The area around Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a controlled traffic zone with strict access rules that became fully enforced in June 2025. The goal is to reduce congestion and ensure safe pedestrian access. If you are visiting Dubrovnik by car, it is important to know that private vehicles cannot freely enter the streets closest to the Old Town.
What changed in 2025?
The streets around the Old Town are monitored by electronic barriers and licence-plate cameras. Entry is allowed only to approved vehicles, and unauthorized cars cannot pass the control point. This change applies throughout the year, with no seasonal exceptions.
Who is allowed to enter the restricted zone?
- Hotel guests with confirmed access approval from their accommodation.
- Drivers with booked parking in garages that are inside the controlled zone.
- Registered residents and service vehicles.
- Passenger transfer vehicles with pre-issued permits.
What to do if you are visiting by car
Visitors without a permit must park outside the restricted zone. The most practical areas are Gruž (the port area, see Gruž port parking), the main public garage, and parking zones on Ilijina Glavica. These locations have regular bus and taxi connections to the Old Town and are easier to navigate than the narrow streets near the center. If you park in the Ilijina Glavica area, you can walk to the Old Town on foot. The distance is roughly 1 km, and the walk usually takes 10-15 minutes depending on your pace. The route toward the Old Town is mostly downhill and straightforward, but the return walk is uphill and can feel demanding on hot summer days, so plan accordingly.
Important reminders
- Do not attempt to drive toward the Old Town without a confirmed permit; fines are issued automatically.
- Always check parking arrangements with your accommodation before arrival.
- Plan extra time when driving in summer, as nearby streets are busy with buses and tour drop-offs.
Where to park in Dubrovnik
You will not be using your car inside the Old Town, so the main question is where to leave it safely and at a reasonable cost. The best and cheapest options are larger public garages and organised parking lots outside the restricted zone, from where you can walk or take a bus or taxi to the Old Town.
Street parking closest to the Old Town is mostly reserved for residents and regulated by strict local rules. Always read the signs carefully and pay for parking in the indicated way. If you are unsure, it is usually safer to choose a public garage or marked parking lot rather than leaving the car on the street.
Public Garage Ilijina Glavica (multi-storey garage)
The main public garage on Ilijina Glavica, on Zagrebačka Street, is the most practical place to park if you want to visit the Old Town without driving into narrow central streets. The garage has hundreds of spaces, is open 24 hours and is outside the restricted traffic zone, so you do not need any special permit to enter. From the garage it is roughly a 10-minute walk downhill to the Old Town, and a little longer on the way back uphill.
This garage is usually the best choice for short visits, luggage drop-offs and days when you want to leave the car parked while you explore the Old Town on foot.
Parking at Gruž Harbour (port area)
The Gruž Harbour area, near the main ferry terminal and bus station, has several larger parking areas and marked street spaces. This is a good option if you are staying in Lapad or Gruž, taking a ferry to the nearby islands, or looking for a more budget-friendly place to leave the car for a longer period. From Gruž you can reach the Old Town by local bus or taxi. Read more about Gruž port parking.
If you park here, plan extra time for the journey into the Old Town, especially in summer when traffic and buses can be busy.
Other larger parking lots and garages
In addition to Ilijina Glavica and Gruž, there are several larger parking lots and garages along Vukovarska Street and in the wider city center. These are useful if your accommodation is in those neighborhoods or if you prefer an organised parking facility instead of street parking. When choosing where to park, compare the distance to your accommodation and the ease of getting to the Old Town by bus or taxi.
Street parking zones and payment
Public street parking in Dubrovnik is organised into zones with different time limits and prices. Payment is usually made at parking meters, kiosks or by sending an SMS to the number shown on the sign for that zone. Always check the zone number, working hours and maximum allowed parking time before leaving your car. The areas closest to the Old Town are the most expensive and often not suitable for visitors without a resident permit.
You can pay for street parking at parking meters, Tisak kiosks and by sending an SMS to the number shown on the zone sign. Many areas also support mobile payment apps such as the local Smart Parking app or other authorized providers listed on the signs in each zone. Always check which payment methods are accepted in your specific zone before leaving the car.
Parking prices in summer 2025
Based on summer 2025 tariffs, you can expect the highest prices in the public garage closest to the Old Town, with lower daily costs in the Gruž area and in larger parking lots further from the center. Short stays of one or two hours are noticeably more expensive near the Old Town than in residential or port areas, which makes garages and lots outside the restricted zone a better choice for full-day parking.
Use the information on local parking signs, pay stations and any official city parking apps to confirm the current tariff for your zone before you pay. If you are planning a longer stay, it is often cheaper to choose a slightly more distant garage or lot and continue by bus or taxi.
This price information reflects conditions in summer 2025. Parking tariffs and zone rules can change from year to year, especially before a new summer season, so always treat these details as a guide and check the latest information on the spot.
Parking prices in summer 2025
Based on official price lists and local information for summer 2025, you can expect roughly the following price levels in Dubrovnik:
- Main public garage (Ilijina Glavica): around €7 per hour in high season, with a 24-hour ticket costing about €80. This is one of the most expensive options but also the most practical secure garage close to the Old Town.
- Gruž Harbor parking: usually between about €1.30 and €3.00 per hour, or roughly €17-30 for a full day, depending on the exact parking area and season. This makes Gruž one of the better value areas for all-day parking.
- Private car parks and garages a bit further from the Old Town: commonly charge around €2-3 per hour and roughly €20-24 per day in summer, offering a balance between price and walking distance or a short bus ride.
- Premium locations very close to the Old Town (Zone 0 and hotel garages): significantly more expensive, often around €6-10 per hour, and in some cases day tickets can be well over €100 in peak season. These spots are convenient but rarely good value for standard visits.
These examples reflect price levels in summer 2025. Parking tariffs, operating hours and zone rules can change from year to year, especially before each new summer season, so always treat these numbers as a guide and check the latest information on local signs, official price lists or in the city’s parking apps before you pay.
For a detailed overview of parking zones, approximate price levels and practical examples of where to park for different types of stays, you can also consult the in-depth guide on Parking in Dubrovnik.
If you plan to leave the car for the whole day while you explore, choosing a larger organised parking area or garage and then using local buses to reach the Old Town is usually the most stress-free option.
OOOPS, my car is gone - towing and fines in Dubrovnik
If you return to your parking spot and your car is missing, it has most likely been towed by the municipal towing service known locally as “Pauk”. Cars are removed when they block traffic, are parked in resident-only zones, stand on pedestrian areas, or are left in places reserved for emergency or service vehicles.
How to find your towed car
Towed vehicles are taken to the city’s impound lot. Information about the location and release procedure is usually available from the local police or by contacting the towing service directly. Signs in restricted areas often include a phone number to call if your car has been removed.
Towing Service - Dubrovnik Parking "Pauk" služba
Lichtenseinov put (Gospino polje)
tel:+385 20 640 135, +385 91-428-8589, direct contact with the towing car: +385 91 428-8590, Work hours: 0-24h
What you need to pay
To recover your vehicle, you must pay the towing fee plus any parking fine issued for the violation. Fees depend on the type of infringement and the towing distance. Payments are typically made at the impound lot before the car is released, and card payment is usually accepted.
If you return before the car is towed
If the tow truck has arrived but the car is still on the ground, you may still be charged a partial fee for the intervention. The amount depends on how far the towing process has progressed.
Avoiding towing and fines
- Never park in resident-only zones or in spaces marked for emergency or service vehicles.
- Always check the zone number, time limits and payment requirements on local parking signs.
- If you are unsure whether an area is allowed for visitors, choose a public garage or marked parking lot instead.
- Do not stop or unload in the Old Town restricted zone without a confirmed permit.
Using local buses for short central trips is often the simplest way to avoid fines and unnecessary stress.
Driving rules and safety in Croatia
Croatia follows standard European driving regulations, with clear road signs and generally good road quality. If you are driving to Dubrovnik from elsewhere in the country, or renting a car for day trips, the rules below will help you stay safe and avoid unexpected fines.
The minimum driving age in Croatia is 18. Motorcycle riders and passengers must wear crash helmets, and all vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. If you are travelling in winter through inland regions such as Gorski Kotar, winter tires are essential and snow chains may be required when conditions are severe.
Speed limits short facts
- 50 km/h in built-up areas
- 90 km/h on open roads outside towns
- 110 km/h on major state roads
- 130 km/h on motorways (A1 and other highways)
Speed limits can be lower in residential areas, near schools and on winding coastal sections. Always follow the posted signs.
Documents and insurance
To drive in Croatia you need a valid driver’s licence, vehicle registration papers and proof of insurance. International driving permits are required for some non-EU licences, especially when renting a car. Rental companies may also ask for a credit card hold for security and require prior permission if you plan to cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro.
Equipment required in the car
- Reflective safety vest
- Warning triangle
- First-aid kit (usually provided in rental cars)
These items should be accessible, not packed away in luggage, as police may request to see them during roadside checks.
Alcohol, lights and mobile phones
- Alcohol limit: 0.5‰ for most drivers; 0.0‰ for young and professional drivers.
- Lights: Use dipped headlights in poor visibility and whenever required by local rules; many drivers keep them on during the day as well.
- Mobile phones: Only hands-free use is allowed while driving.
Tolls, motorways and fuel
Motorways in Croatia are tolled and payment can be made by cash, card or electronic toll devices. Fuel stations are common along major routes and many offer 24-hour service during summer. If you are travelling longer distances, plan occasional breaks, as stretches of the coastal road can be slow and winding. For a broader overview of how Croatian motorways work, including toll categories and general rules, see the national summary on Croatian motorways.
Roadside assistance
For breakdowns or emergencies, Croatia’s national automobile club (HAK) operates a roadside assistance service. You can also contact your rental company for support if you experience a problem with a hired vehicle.
Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) information
For 24-hour road information and roadside assistance in Croatia, you can contact the Croatian Automobile Club (Hrvatski autoklub). Information center: Tel: +385 1 4640 800, web: Hrvatski autoklub.
Petrol stations in Dubrovnik
Petrol stations are generally open from 7 am to 7 or 8 PM every day; in the summer season, working hours are extended until 10 PM. Stations in bigger cities and on main international roads are open 24 hours. Petrol stations are easy to find in Dubrovnik, especially along the main roads leading to and from the city center. Most are open long hours, accept card payments and offer both petrol and diesel. During summer, stations closest to the Old Town and Gruž Harbor can be busy at peak travel times.
Major petrol stations in Dubrovnik
- INA Dubrovnik-grad
Vladimira Nazora 2/c, Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 91 4971 032 - Lukoil Dubrovnik
Ul. dr. Ante Starčevića 76, Dubrovnik
Tel: +0800 900 800 - INA Dubrovnik-Komolac
Komolac, Ogarići 10, Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 91 4971 033 - INA Dubrovnik-Komolac - marina Dubrovnik
Komolac, Na Skali 5, Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 91 4971 034 - INA Dubrovnik-Orsan
Lapadska obala 31, Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 91 4971 036
Fuel types and payment
Croatian fuel stations typically offer petrol (95 and 98), diesel and sometimes LPG. Payment can be made by card or cash, and self-service pumps are straightforward to use. During summer, expect short queues at busy times, especially in late mornings.
Useful tips
- Refuel before starting longer regional trips, as stations between smaller coastal towns may be less frequent.
- Keep your receipt if you plan to return a rental car with a full tank.
- Check the fuel type carefully, especially when switching between rental vehicles.
More info at INA - gas stations, gas prices INA company
Useful information about traffic conditions, road web cams and roadside assistance can be found at the Croatian Automobile Club (page available in several languages).
Driving distances to Dubrovnik
Driving times to Dubrovnik depend on the route, traffic and time of year. The coastal road (D8) is slower but scenic, while the motorway network offers a faster option for most of the journey before switching to local roads for the final approach. The distances below give a general idea of how far Dubrovnik is from popular Croatian cities and neighboring countries.
Driving distances to Dubrovnik
Driving times to Dubrovnik depend on the route, traffic and time of year. The coastal road (D8) is slower but scenic, while the motorway network offers a faster option for most of the journey before switching to local roads for the final approach. The distances below provide a general overview for planning long-distance trips.
Driving distances within Croatia
- Zagreb - Dubrovnik: approx. 600 km
- Split - Dubrovnik: approx. 230 km
- Rijeka - Dubrovnik: approx. 600 km
- Zadar - Dubrovnik: approx. 350 km
- Pula - Dubrovnik: approx. 700 km
- Šibenik - Dubrovnik: approx. 270 km
- Makarska - Dubrovnik: approx. 150 km
- Osijek - Dubrovnik: approx. 640 km
- Vukovar - Dubrovnik: approx. 680 km
Driving distances from neighbouring countries
- Sarajevo - Dubrovnik: approx. 240 km
- Mostar - Dubrovnik: approx. 140 km
- Kotor - Dubrovnik: approx. 90 km
- Budva - Dubrovnik: approx. 120 km
- Tirana - Dubrovnik: approx. 300 km
- Belgrade - Dubrovnik: approx. 475 km
Driving distances from major European cities
- Amsterdam - 2061 km (1277 miles)
- Athens - 1282 km (794 miles)
- Barcelona - 2173 km (1347 miles)
- Berlin - 1799 km (1115 miles)
- Bern - 1404 km (870 miles)
- Bonn - 1791 km (1110 miles)
- Brussels - 1963 km (1217 miles)
- Copenhagen - 2479 km (1536 miles)
- Dublin - 2724 km (1688 miles)
- Helsinki - 3275 km (2030 miles)
- Istanbul - 1435 km (887 miles)
- Vienna - 1151 km (713 miles)
- Lisbon - 3470 km (2151 miles)
- London - 2295 km (1422 miles)
- Luxembourg - 1748 km (1083 miles)
- Madrid - 2820 km (1748 miles)
- Marseilles - 1635 km (1013 miles)
- Milan - 1128 km (699 miles)
- Munich - 1223 km (758 miles)
- Oslo - 3067 km (1901 miles)
- Paris - 2075 km (1286 miles)
- Rome - 1377 km (853 miles)
- Stockholm - 3110 km (1928 miles)
- Zurich - 1200 km (780 miles)
What to expect on the road
During July and August, traffic can be slow near major coastal towns and border crossings, so plan extra time. Using the motorway for the northern part of the journey is usually faster, but the final kilometres toward Dubrovnik always continue on local roads.
Explore Dubrovnik Region by car
Exploring the wider Dubrovnik region by car is one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting southern Croatia. Towns, beaches and viewpoints are spread out along the coast and in the inland valleys, and many are easier to reach by car than by public transport.
Popular destinations include Cavtat, the Konavle countryside, viewpoints above Dubrovnik, coastal villages on the way to the Pelješac Peninsula and several quiet beaches outside the city. These areas offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busy Old Town, and parking is generally easier.
Easy day trips by car
- Cavtat - a short drive south with a seaside promenade, beaches and cafés.
- Konavle - a rural valley known for traditional restaurants, viewpoints and walking trails.
- Pelješac Peninsula - accessible via the Pelješac Bridge, suitable for beaches and local wineries.
- Coastal viewpoints - several spots along the D8 road offer panoramic views of the islands and the Old Town.
If you prefer organised tours or want ideas for destinations further away, see the selection of recommended trips on day trips from Dubrovnik.
When you do not need a car
If your trip is focused mainly on the Old Town and nearby islands, a car is often unnecessary. Ferries, local buses and taxis cover the main routes, and parking can be limited near popular attractions. Consider leaving your car parked for the day and using public transport when exploring the central areas.
Helpful links and further information
Before driving to Dubrovnik, it is useful to check local conditions, parking options and alternative ways of getting around.
- General Croatia planning: Croatia travel guide
- Dubrovnik overview: Dubrovnik guide
- Arriving without a car: Dubrovnik by bus, Dubrovnik ferries, Dubrovnik Airport
- Parking details: Parking in Dubrovnik
Frequently asked questions about driving to Dubrovnik
Is it a good idea to bring a car to Dubrovnik?
Bringing a car to Dubrovnik is a good idea if you plan to explore the wider region, visit places like Cavtat, Konavle or the Pelješac Peninsula, or continue a longer Croatian road trip. If your stay is short and focused mainly on the Old Town and nearby islands, a car is often more of a burden because of traffic and limited parking. In that case it is usually easier to rely on local buses, taxis and organised tours.
Where is the best place to park for visiting the Old Town?
The most practical option for visiting the Old Town by car is the public garage on Ilijina Glavica, which is outside the restricted traffic zone and about a 10-minute walk downhill to the city walls. Another good choice is the Gruž Harbor area, where parking is usually cheaper and you can continue by bus or taxi. Street parking close to the Old Town is limited, expensive and often reserved for residents, so it is not recommended for visitors.
Can I drive into the streets around the Old Town?
No, visitors cannot freely drive into the streets closest to the Old Town. Since June 2025 this area has been a controlled traffic zone monitored by electronic barriers and cameras, and entry is allowed only for vehicles with a permit such as hotel guests with approved access, registered residents or authorized service vehicles. If you do not have a permit, you must park outside the restricted zone and walk or use public transport.
Does the Pelješac Bridge mean I can avoid the Neum border crossing?
Yes. The Pelješac Bridge connects the southern part of Croatia with the rest of the country without passing through Bosnia and Herzegovina at Neum. If you are driving from the north, following the motorway and then the bridge route is usually the smoothest and most predictable way to reach Dubrovnik without any extra border checks.
What documents and insurance do I need to drive to Dubrovnik?
You need a valid driver’s licence, vehicle registration papers and proof of insurance to drive in Croatia. Some non-EU licences also require an international driving permit, especially when renting a car. If you plan to cross into neighboring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro, check with your rental company that cross-border use and insurance are allowed, and keep all documents available for inspection at border crossings.