Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
DBV
ICAO Code
LDDU
Dubrovnik Airport Quick Facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Čilipi, 20213, Dubrovnik, Croatia |
| Website | www.airport-dubrovnik.hr |
| Airlines | Croatia Airlines, easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Vueling, and seasonal charters |
| Terminals | Single terminal building with A, B, and C gates |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 2.5 million |
| Hub for | Croatia Airlines (focus city) |
| Phone Number | +385 20 773 100 |
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), known locally as Zračna luka Dubrovnik or Čilipi Airport, serves as a key gateway to the Adriatic coast. The airport features a single modern terminal and handles the highest concentration of seasonal leisure traffic in Croatia during the European summer holiday season. It boasts the longest runway in the country at 3,300 meters, accommodating heavy long-haul aircraft. Here is what you need to know:
- Location: Čilipi, 20213, Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Website: www.airport-dubrovnik.hr
- Airlines: Serves domestic carriers including Croatia Airlines and international airlines including British Airways, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, easyJet, and Ryanair.
- Terminals: One integrated terminal with three gate areas (A, B, and C) spread across two levels.
Dubrovnik Airport Terminal Map and Layout
Dubrovnik Airport operates out of a single, compact passenger terminal. The building is divided into ground-side and air-side areas across two main floors. The ground floor houses the check-in hall, baggage reclaim, and arrivals area. After passing through security and passport control, passengers proceed to the upper floor, which contains the main departure gates and commercial spaces. The layout is linear and intuitive, making it almost impossible to get lost.
Navigating Dubrovnik Airport Terminals
Because the airport uses a single-terminal concept, there are no shuttle trains or lengthy underground walkways. All gates are accessible on foot within minutes of clearing security.
Ground Floor – Arrivals and Check-in
- All airlines operate check-in desks on this level.
- Baggage reclaim carousels are located directly behind the passport control booths.
- Car rental counters, currency exchange, and the information desk are situated in the public arrivals hall.
Upper Floor – Departures and Lounges
- Gates A, B, and C are all located in the international departures area on the upper floor.
- The Sky Lounge is on the third floor, accessible after passport control.
- Duty-free shopping and the main restaurant are centrally located before the gates.
Transportation to and from Dubrovnik Airport
Dubrovnik Airport is approximately 15.5 km (9.5 mi) southeast of the Old Town. The journey into the city winds through the Župa Dubrovačka valley and offers striking coastal views. Traffic is generally light except in peak summer, when the approach to the Old Town can become congested.
Getting to and from Dubrovnik Airport by Car
The drive from the airport to the city center takes 25–35 minutes via the D8 coastal road. During July and August, afternoon arrivals can add 15 minutes to the journey due to bottlenecks near the Old Town.
Parking Rates
The main car park sits directly across from the terminal. Rates are seasonal.
| Parking Duration | Summer (May 1 – Oct 31) | Winter (Nov 1 – Apr 30) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 hour | $4.50 | $3.25 |
| Up to 2 hours | $9.00 | $6.50 |
| 3 to 6 hours | $15.75 | $11.00 |
| 12 to 24 hours | $22.50 | $15.75 |
| Each additional day | $19.00 | $13.50 |
Long-term parking (P10) is available at approximately $14.50 per day in summer and $9.00 in winter. Payment is made at automatic pay stations using cash or card. A cell phone waiting lot is located near the main entrance road, allowing free waiting for up to 30 minutes.
Getting to and from Dubrovnik Airport by Rideshare or Taxi
Uber operates widely in the Dubrovnik area. Bolt is also available. The designated pickup point for rideshare is directly outside the arrivals hall. You can request your ride once you have collected luggage, and the driver typically arrives within 5 minutes. An Uber to the Old Town costs approximately $30–$38. Taxis are located at the official rank right outside arrivals and charge a fixed rate of around $40–$48 to the city center. Payment by card is possible in both taxis and rideshare vehicles.
Getting to and from Dubrovnik Airport by Public Transportation
The Platanus airport shuttle bus connects the airport with Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the main bus station in Gruž. The service is timed to flight arrivals, so buses depart roughly 30 minutes after a flight lands. From the city, buses leave from the Gruž bus station, with additional stops at the Grawe stop and the Cable Car stop above the Old Town. The journey takes 35–45 minutes.
| Route | First Bus/Train | Last Bus/Train | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport to Old Town / Gruž | Aligned with first arrival | Aligned with last arrival | After each flight landing | $11 one-way |
| Gruž to Airport | Aligned with first departure | Aligned with last departure | Scheduled per flight; check daily | $11 one-way / $16.50 return |
Key Amenities at Dubrovnik Airport
ATMs
Several ATMs are located in the arrivals hall and the departures lounge. They dispense Croatian Kuna and Euros.
Lost and Found
Lost property is handled by the airport information desk on the ground floor. You can call +385 20 773 100 or email [email protected].
Luggage Services
Luggage carts are free in the arrivals area. A luggage wrapping service is available pre-security for approximately $7 per bag.
Pets
An outdoor pet relief area is located near the terminal entrance. Pets must remain in approved carriers inside the terminal.
Showers
Showers are not available in the public areas but are accessible within the Sky Lounge for eligible guests.
Currency Exchange
A currency exchange office operates in the arrivals hall, open for all arriving flights.
Smoking Area
Designated smoking zones are located outside the terminal building only. The entire indoor facility is non-smoking.
WiFi
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the Airport-Dubrovnik network. Charging stations with USB ports are found near departure gates.
Airport Lounges at Dubrovnik Airport
The airport hosts one exclusive lounge for international passengers looking for a quiet space before departure.
Sky Lounge
- Location: Airside, after passport control, 3rd Floor. Non-Schengen departures only.
- Standout Features: Modern design with runway views, luxury armchairs, complimentary snacks and alcoholic beverages, TV, flight information displays, and digital card acceptance.
- How to Access: Day pass available for $36 USD. Free for business class passengers on partner airlines and Priority Pass members. Children under 12 enter free.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sky Lounge | 3rd Floor, Non-Schengen Gates | Priority Pass, LoungePair, Business Class, Day Pass | $36 | Runway views, snacks, drinks, TV |
Other Airports in the Region
Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Distance to Dubrovnik: 25 km south, across the border in Montenegro.
- Best for travelers staying in the Bay of Kotor or Herceg Novi.
- Unique advantage: stunning approach over the bay, smaller airport with easy parking.
Split Airport (SPU)
- Distance to Dubrovnik: 230 km northwest, a 3-hour coastal drive.
- Best for exploring the Dalmatian islands and central coast.
- Serves as an alternative gateway with more domestic ferry connections.
Dubrovnik Airport Overview
Dubrovnik Airport is officially named Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport, honoring the 18th-century scientist, and is often called Čilipi Airport after the nearby village. It sits 15.5 km from the city center and functions purely as a civilian airport. It welcomes approximately 2.5 million passengers annually, the vast majority traveling between May and October. The single terminal efficiently handles both Schengen and non-Schengen traffic.
Dubrovnik Airport Postal Code
- Postal Code: 20213
- City: Čilipi, Dubrovnik
- Province/State: Dubrovnik-Neretva County
- Country: Croatia
- Mailing Address: Dubrovnik Airport, 20213 Čilipi, Croatia
Duty Free and Shopping at Dubrovnik Airport
Duty-free shopping is available after passport control for passengers leaving the European Union, including flights to the UK. The main shop offers local and international spirits, tobacco, perfumes, and Croatian specialties. A small souvenir shop sells lavender products, olive oil, and local wines. While prices are fair, purchasing authentic souvenirs in Dubrovnik’s Old Town gives you a wider selection.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Croatian Wine (750ml) | Alcohol | $15–$25 |
| Lavender Oil | Gifts | $10 |
| Kras Chocolate Box | Confectionery | $8 |
| Premium Rakija (0.5L) | Spirits | $22 |
| Olive Oil (Local, 500ml) | Gourmet Food | $18 |
Security Wait Times Dubrovnik Airport
Security queues are generally short and fast. During the summer peak, mornings between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM see the highest volume. Arriving 2 hours before a flight is sufficient year-round. The airport is not part of the TSA PreCheck or CLEAR programs.
| Terminal | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| All Gates (Single Terminal) | 5–15 minutes | 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM (Jul–Aug) |
Dubrovnik Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
- Departures Drop-off: Curbside directly in front of the terminal. Stopping is limited to a few minutes for immediate unloading.
- Arrivals Pick-up: Drivers should use the short-term parking lot directly in front of the arrivals hall. The first 10 minutes are free.
- Cell Phone Lot: A free waiting area is located on the access road near the main entrance. Wait there until your party is ready at the curb.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Dubrovnik Airport
Croatia Airlines maintains a focus city operation here, connecting Dubrovnik to Zagreb and several European capitals. easyJet and Ryanair operate numerous seasonal routes from the UK, Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavia. British Airways and Lufthansa provide premium services, while Turkish Airlines offers year-round connections to Istanbul. Popular domestic destinations include Zagreb and Split. Long-haul seasonal charters occasionally arrive from North America and the Middle East.
Getting to and from Dubrovnik Airport
Car Rental at Dubrovnik Airport
Renting a car gives you access to the dramatic coastline north and south of the city. Rental counters are in the arrivals hall. Advance booking is strongly recommended during summer, as manual transmission cars sell out quickly. An International Driving Permit is legally required alongside your home license for non-EU visitors. Popular vehicle types include compact crossovers for navigating narrow hillside roads and convertibles for coastal drives.
- On-site rental companies: Avis, Sixt, Budget, Hertz, Green Motion, Carwiz, Avant Car, and several local brokers.
- Typical Prices: Economy cars start from $19 per day. Compact SUVs range from $35–$55 per day.
Dubrovnik Airport Taxi Services
Official airport taxis wait at the rank outside arrivals. Fares to Dubrovnik Old Town or Gruž port cost approximately $40–$48. Uber and Bolt offer slightly cheaper alternatives, usually around $30–$38. Both taxis and rideshare vehicles accept card payments.
Private Car Services
Pre-booked transfers provide a meet-and-greet service in the arrivals hall. Prices start around $50 for a sedan to the city center. This is an excellent option for families or groups with lots of luggage.
Bus Services
The Platanus shuttle bus is the only public transit option. It runs from right outside the arrivals exit to the Old Town (Pile Gate area) and then to the main bus station. Tickets cost $11 one-way and $16.50 for a round-trip valid for 15 days.
Hotel Shuttles
Many hotels in the Lapad and Babin Kuk areas offer complimentary pickup, though this must be arranged directly with the property. Larger resorts like the Dubrovnik Palace and Rixos Premium have dedicated shuttle vans.
Parking at Dubrovnik Airport
- Short-Term Parking: P1 car park directly opposite the terminal. Rates begin at $4.50 for the first hour, making it ideal for pickups and drop-offs.
- Long-Term Parking: P10 lot provides secure multi-day parking. It costs approximately $14.50 per day in summer and $9.00 per day in winter.
- Electric Vehicle Charging: Charging stations are available in the P1 premium parking area.
- Payment: Automatic pay stations accept cash, debit, and credit cards.
Places to Explore Near Dubrovnik Airport
- Konavle Valley: Only a 10-minute drive from the airport, this rural valley offers vineyards, stone watermills, and traditional restaurants serving peka.
- Cavtat: A beautiful coastal town 6 km from the airport. The 15-minute drive brings you to a charming waterfront promenade lined with palm trees and seafood restaurants.
- Dubrovnik Old Town: The famous walled city is a 30-minute drive away. Game of Thrones filming locations, the Stradun, and historic walls await.
- Srebreno and Kupari: A 15-minute drive toward Dubrovnik reveals these stunning bays. Kupari is known for its abandoned military hotel complex across from a pristine beach.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
- Summer (June–August): Highs of 29°C (84°F). Hot, sunny, and crowded. Book car hire months ahead.
- Autumn (September–October): 20–25°C (68–77°F). Sea stays warm enough for swimming. Ideal for driving tours with fewer crowds.
- Winter (November–March): 10–14°C (50–57°F). Mild and rainy, many tourist facilities close, but rental cars are heavily discounted.
- Spring (April–May): 16–22°C (61–72°F). Wildflowers bloom in the Konavle Valley. Perfect for outdoor exploration.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrival Time: Arrive 1.5 hours before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights, even in summer.
- Flight Status: Flight information boards are reliable. Download the airport’s mobile app for real-time updates.
- Packing: Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are expensive locally. Bring reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to visit the islands.
- Currency: Croatia uses the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted widely, but keep some cash for small konobas and parking meters in rural areas.
- Driving Requirements: A valid home license, passport, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are mandatory for non-EU citizens. The winding coastal roads require confident driving.
- Fuel Near Airport: The nearest gas station is on the D8 highway just 2 km from the terminal, perfect for filling up before returning a rental car.
About the City
Dubrovnik is a masterpiece of medieval fortification and Baroque urbanism on the Adriatic Sea. The city is defined by its 1,940 meters of ancient stone walls that rise directly from the deep blue water. A population of approximately 42,000 lies within this living museum. Dubrovnik’s cuisine blends Italian influence with Balkan spirit; black risotto made with cuttlefish ink and simply grilled Adriatic squid are staples. The city’s dramatic topography, with Mount Srđ looming behind the terracotta rooftops, makes it one of the most visually stunning bases for a road trip. From here, the Pelješac Peninsula wine region, the islands of Korčula and Mljet, and even the borderlands of Montenegro are within a day’s drive.
Start Your Journey at Dubrovnik Airport
Dubrovnik Airport is compact, efficient, and stresses only in the height of August. The single terminal means you can go from your plane seat to the driver’s seat in less than 20 minutes. The D8 coastal road begins practically at the airport exit, inviting you to start your Croatian adventure immediately. Pre-book your rental car to secure the best rate and vehicle type, especially if you want a compact automatic or a convertible. Book your rental car in advance to guarantee wheels waiting for you the moment you step off the plane.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) Airport
Everything you need to know before traveling through Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
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