Making the most of Dubrovnik
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Getting around
Walking is the main way to get about. There is little point hiring a car, as the old city is pedestrian-only.
Placa Stradun is the Old City's principal pedestrian boulevard, from which everything can be reached. This is a destination for walking, but the old town's polished marble streets become slippery, especially in rain, so comfortable footwear is important. The town is very compact: the Placa measures only 600 meters, and the old harbor is just 300 meters away.
Excursion boats leave the old harbor pier at the end of the Placa for a range of trips and represent good value. A 50-minute outing typically costs 12 Euro. Several nearby islands passed on the way have nudist beaches, which are part of Croatian life, so do not be surprised.
Take the cable car for excellent views. It has been fully renovated after Balkan war damage and now accommodates people with mobility impairments. Reaching it involves many steps, so use a taxi or bus in that case; Bus 8 from the cruise terminal stops at the cable car.
A panoramic taxi tour is another option: 1 hour costs 50 Euro per taxi. Tours leave directly from the cruise terminal and travel to the same point as the cable car's upper end. Most drivers speak good English and can leave you at either the old city or the cruise terminal, as you prefer.
Nearby places
Banje Beach lies close to the Old Town and is a conveniently placed pebble beach. One concession area charges entry, while its public section is livelier and more relaxed. It is a good escape from the heat in the town centre, with fine views of the City walls, Old Town Dubrovnik and Lokrum island. Beach volleyball, mini football and water polo are available, or simply hire a deck chair and have a drink.
Food and shopping
Placa Stradun is the principal shopping street, though some of the best shops occupy the narrow, steep streets around the Stradun.
Look for Dubrovnik specialities such as Konavle embroidery, silver and gold jewellery, and wine from Dubrovnik cellars.
The port has plenty of souvenir stands, but no duty-free stores.
Money
The currency is the Euro.
Staying connected
Croatian is the language, and English is well spoken.
Quite a few cafes provide wifi. Some make an additional charge even if you buy a drink, while others do not, so ask first.
At the port crew center, wifi costs 5 euro for 3 hours. An internet station costs 1 euro for 10 minutes; no other tariffs are offered.
Opening Hours and
Banks and post offices usually operate continuously from 7AM to 7PM, while public offices are open Monday to Friday, 8AM to 4PM. In the tourist season, post offices generally remain open until 9PM, Saturdays included.
Shops and department stores are open without a break from 8AM to 8PM.
Shopping hours have not been regulated since 2009, so most shops in tourist destinations open 7 days a week.