Dubrovnik Cable Car: Tickets, Opening Hours, Prices & Tips

From Mount Srđ you get one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island, and the Adriatic coastline. The cable car ride is quick, the viewpoints are spectacular, and you can easily combine it with a visit to Panorama Restaurant and Fort Imperial at the top.

The first cable car line here dates back to 1969, and today’s modern Dubrovnik Cable Car takes you up to the upper station on Srđ for sweeping views over the Old Town and beyond. If you’re planning more than just the cable car, browse our best day trips from Dubrovnik for easy add-ons like nearby islands, panoramas, and short excursions beyond the Old Town.

Plan your ride: tickets, prices, and opening hours

• Travel time: about 3:30–4 minutes
• Upper station elevation: 405 m above sea level
• Line length: 778 m
• Cabins: 2 cabins (up to 32 passengers per cabin)

Ticket prices

• Adult return: €30
• Adult one-way: €17
• Child (4–12) return: €8
• Child (4–12) one-way: €5
• Children under 4: free

Where to buy tickets

• Cash desk at the lower station: cash and credit cards
• Ticket machine at the lower station: credit cards only

Payments are accepted in euros and by credit card (availability can vary by machine/card type).

Opening hours by month

Operating hours vary by season. The cable car runs as soon as there are enough passengers, and the last departure from the lower station is 30 minutes before closing time.

In strong winds the cable car may stop until conditions improve, and operations can also pause temporarily in case of lightning.

How it works: departures, queues, and boarding

• Departures: the cable car departs every 15 minutes or as soon as enough passengers are ready.
• No reservations for individual rides: you simply join the queue and board when it’s your turn.
• One queue for everyone: there is only one line for all passengers (including online tickets).
• Lower station layout: the ticket booth is on the right, and the cable car entrance is on the left.
• Ride duration: around 4 minutes each way.

Ticket tip: To avoid extra fees, the most convenient place to buy tickets is directly at the lower station (cash desk or ticket machine). The operator notes a transaction fee can apply to online purchases and tickets sold at locations other than the lower station cash desk or ticket machine.

Ticket validity: Tickets are not date-restricted and can be used on any day (within the operator’s validity window).

In peak season, queues can build quickly around late afternoon and sunset. If you want the views with less waiting, go earlier in the morning or before the pre-sunset rush.

Tours that include the cable car

If you’d rather see Mount Srđ and the Old Town highlights in one organised plan, a guided tour can be the easiest way to do it, especially in peak season when queues and logistics take more time.

Other common tour formats

• Old Town + cable car viewpoint tour: best if you want the Mount Srđ panorama plus orientation in the Old Town, without committing to the full City Walls walk.
• Cable car + sunset experience: a good choice if you want timing help for golden hour, photos, and dinner planning.
• Private Old Town + Srđ: ideal for families or small groups who want a flexible pace and a custom route.

If you’re planning to add the walls independently, start with our Dubrovnik City Walls guide for ticket tips, route timing, and the best entry points.

Where is the Dubrovnik cable car? Location and how to get there

Lower station address

The Dubrovnik Cable Car lower station is at Petra Krešimira IV 10A, opposite the fire station. It’s a short uphill walk from the Old Town: about 5–6 minutes from Pile Gate and around 7–9 minutes from Buža Gate.

Walk from the Old Town

There are several easy ways to reach the station on foot, depending on where you start inside the Old Town.

• From Pile Gate (recommended, fewer stairs): Walk outside the city walls along Ulica Iza Grada until you reach the junction where the road heads uphill. Continue up and you’ll see the cable car station on the right (opposite the fire station).
• From Stradun (fastest, but steep): Take Boškovićeva ulica up towards Buža (the northern entrance), then take the stairs up to Zagrebačka ulica and continue uphill towards the fire station. Cross the road to the right for the cable car station area.

The sidewalk route around/behind the walls from the main gates is generally the easiest option (less steep, fewer stairs). The Stradun stairs route is quicker but involves many steps and is not ideal with strollers.

From Gruž Port (cruise and ferry port)

If you’re arriving at Gruž Port, the operator recommends local bus #8 or a taxi. Walking from Gruž to the cable car area is about 4.5 km (with uphill/downhill sections).

From Gruž Port by public bus (step-by-step)

1. Walk from the port area to Dubrovnik Main Bus Station (A.Kolodvor) or the nearest Libertas stop in Gruž.
2. Take city bus No. 8 from Gruž towards the Old Town side.
3. As you approach the Old Town and start seeing the City Walls on your right, prepare to get off. Depending on direction and service pattern, bus #8 stops close to the cable car area (ask the driver for the best stop for the cable car / “Žičara”).
4. Walk a few minutes uphill to the lower station (opposite the fire station).

Use our Dubrovnik City Bus Map and Timetables to check routes, stops, and the latest schedule before you go.

Taxi / ride-hailing

A taxi or ride-hailing is the simplest choice from Gruž if you’re short on time, travelling with luggage, or heading up close to sunset when roads and buses can be busier.

Arriving by car (parking tips)

Parking near the lower station is limited, especially in peak season. Before you drive, check current options and rules in our Parking in Dubrovnik guide.

Driving to Mount Srđ (upper area)

You can also reach Mount Srđ by road and park near Fort Imperial, then walk to the viewpoints and the upper station area. The road is narrow in places and can be slow in high season, so allow extra time.

At the top of Mount Srđ: what to do

Viewpoints and photo spots

As soon as you step out at the upper station on Mount Srđ, you’ll see why this is Dubrovnik’s classic “wow” viewpoint. The Old Town and Dubrovnik City Walls wrap around the terracotta rooftops below, with Lokrum and the open Adriatic stretching out beyond.

Start with the main terraces right by the station, then walk a few minutes around the plateau for different angles. The upper complex has three terraces equipped with binocular telescopes, so it’s easy to zoom in on details of the Old Town, the harbour, and the islands.

Planning tip: Allow at least 45–90 minutes at the top for photos and a relaxed look around. For sunset (and dinner), plan 2–3 hours.

Panorama Restaurant and facilities at the upper station

Right next to the cable car exit you’ll find Panorama Restaurant, one of the best spots in Dubrovnik for a drink or meal with a view. If you want a sunset table in peak season, book ahead and arrive early enough to enjoy the light change over the Old Town.

The upper station also has useful visitor facilities, including restrooms and several small shops and attractions. Depending on what’s open during your visit, you may find:

• a souvenir shop
• Ohrid pearl shop
• coin blacksmithing shop
• a gallery space
• a water refilling station
• an amphitheatre (events/performances in season)

Extra detail: The upper station amphitheatre seats up to 120 people and can be hired for events or special occasions.

Fort Imperial and the Homeland War Museum

A short walk from the upper station takes you to Fort Imperial, a historic fortress on Srđ (built in the early 19th century). Inside, the Homeland War Museum focuses on Dubrovnik during the 1991–1995 period and adds important context to what you see from the viewpoint.

If you plan to visit, check the museum’s latest opening times before you go, as they change by season. For more background and practical tips, see our Homeland War Museum guide.

Best time to go: views, light, and avoiding queues

Morning vs late afternoon vs sunset

Morning (from 09:00): If you want the shortest waits and calmer terraces, go soon after opening. The light is usually crisp, and you can often enjoy the viewpoint before the late-day rush builds.

Midday: Visibility can be excellent on clear days, but summer heat and crowds are typically higher. If you go at midday, plan a shorter stop at the top and bring water.

Late afternoon and sunset: This is the most popular time to ride. The golden light over the Old Town is stunning, but queues can be significantly longer.

Local visibility tip: After a spell of the strong north wind bura, the air can be exceptionally clear, and on rare days you may even spot distant islands far out on the Adriatic horizon.

Sunset strategy (how to get the views without the stress)

• Go up early: Aim to be at the upper station at least 60–90 minutes before sunset to get photos in daylight and the golden hour glow.
• Stay for night views: In peak summer months the cable car runs late (often until midnight), so you can wait for the crowds to thin and enjoy Dubrovnik lit up after dark.
• Expect a rush after sunset: Many visitors head down at the same time. If the queue is long, have a drink, take night photos, or walk to Fort Imperial and return later for a smoother ride down.
• Remember the last ride rule: The last departure from the lower station is 30 minutes before closing, so plan your timing accordingly.

How to avoid the longest lines

• Best for minimal waiting: morning after opening (09:00–10:30).
• Most crowded window: the hour or two before sunset and shortly after.
• Quick-win alternative: ride up earlier, then linger at the top and ride down later when the sunset crowd clears.
• Weather matters: high winds or lightning can pause service, which can create sudden queues once operations resume.

Photography tip for the cabin view

For the best views on the way up, try to stand by a window facing the Old Town; on the way down, choose a window looking over the city for the classic "walls and rooftops" panorama.

Cable car vs hiking vs driving: which option is best?

Mount Srđ is easy to reach in a few different ways. The best choice depends on your fitness level, how much time you have, and whether you want a quick viewpoint stop or a full outdoor experience.

Cable car (fastest and easiest)

• Best for: most visitors, families, short stays, and anyone who wants the views with minimal effort.
• Time needed: the ride is about 4 minutes each way, but allow extra time for queues in peak season (especially close to sunset).
• Good to know: you can buy a one-way ticket if you want to combine the ride with a walk (up or down).

Hike up Mount Srđ (trail overview)

• Best for: active travellers who want an outdoor challenge and changing viewpoints on the way up.
• Typical time: many visitors take roughly 60–90 minutes to reach the top (longer in hot weather or with photo stops).
• Difficulty: moderate, with steep sections and switchbacks on rocky/gravel terrain.
• Bring: proper shoes, water (more than you think in summer), sun protection, and a light layer if it’s windy at the top.

Safety tip: In summer, start early (or late) to avoid the hottest part of the day, and don’t underestimate the heat on exposed sections.

One-way ticket + walk down (popular option)

• Best for: travellers who want the viewpoint and restaurant time without doing the full uphill hike.
• How it works: ride up by cable car, enjoy the terraces/Fort Imperial, then walk down at your own pace.
• What to expect: downhill walking is easier on fitness but can be tough on knees and ankles; wear grippy shoes and take it slow on loose stones.

Popular combo: Buy a one-way ticket, enjoy the views and Fort Imperial, then walk down via the twisty path beneath Mount Srđ for a scenic, slower-paced return.

Drive to the top (Fort Imperial area)

• Best for: visitors with a car who want flexibility, or those travelling outside peak hours.
• What to expect: the road up can be narrow in places and slow during busy periods, and parking near the top can fill up in high season.
• Good to know: once you park near Fort Imperial, it’s a short walk to the main viewpoints and upper station area.

Taxi or organised tour (most convenient)

• Best for: cruise passengers, families with small kids, or anyone short on time who wants a simple door-to-door option.
• Tip: this can be the least stressful way to do sunset if you’re trying to avoid parking and bus crowds.

Practical tips: accessibility, rules, and safety

• Accessibility: The operator states all facilities are equipped for disabled access, including both stations, step-free cabin access, restrooms, and an elevator.
• Weather stops happen: If wind exceeds the safety threshold on any part of the route, the cable car stops until it drops. In case of possible lightning, operations may pause temporarily.
• Pets: Pets of any size are not allowed in the cabins for safety and evacuation reasons. If you travel with an assistance animal, contact the operator in advance to confirm current policy.
• During the ride: Follow staff instructions and stand still so cabin movement does not cause swaying.
• Sunset crowds: Expect the longest queues in the hour or two before sunset and shortly after. For a calmer experience, ride up in the morning or go up earlier and come down later.
• Families: Bring water in summer and plan shade breaks at the top. If you have a stroller, ask staff about the best way to board during busy periods.
• What to wear: The top is often windier than the Old Town. Bring a light layer even on warm days, especially outside peak summer.

Source: Dubrovnik Cable Car official website (technical details, timetable, contact FAQ, and safety rules).

Suggested visit plans

How long you need depends on whether you’re just coming for the view or combining Mount Srđ with dinner and Fort Imperial. These simple plans work well for most visitors.

Quick visit (60–90 minutes)

• Ride up by cable car.
• Spend 20–40 minutes on the terraces for photos and binocular viewing.
• Walk to Fort Imperial viewpoint area (optional quick look from outside).
• Ride back down before the next crowd wave (especially in late afternoon).

Sunset + dinner (2–3 hours)

• Go up 60–90 minutes before sunset to enjoy the changing light and secure a good photo spot.
• Book a table (or at least plan time) for Panorama Restaurant if you want to eat with a view.
• Stay after sunset for night photos of the Old Town lights.
• Ride down later to avoid the biggest post-sunset queue.

Culture + views (2–3 hours)

• Ride up and start with the terraces and viewpoints.
• Visit Fort Imperial and the Homeland War Museum for historical context.
• Finish with a drink or snack at the upper station before heading down.

Pair it with other top Dubrovnik sights

• Dubrovnik City Walls (best earlier in the day in summer)
• Best attractions in Dubrovnik (ideas for your route)
• Lokrum Island (easy add-on by ferry in season)

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Address & contact details

Street: Petra Krešimira 4. bb
Postcode: 20000
City: Dubrovnik

Website: Dubrovnik Cable Car

FAQ: Dubrovnik Cable Car

How long is the Dubrovnik cable car ride?

The journey takes approximately 4 minutes each way.

Where is the lower station?

The lower station is at Petra Krešimira IV 10A (opposite the fire station), a short uphill walk from the Old Town.

How often does the cable car run?

The cable car typically departs every 15 minutes or as soon as there are enough passengers. The operator notes there is one queue for all passengers.

What are the opening hours?

Opening hours vary by month. The operator’s timetable lists March–November as operating months with seasonal closing times, and notes that the last departure from the lower station is 30 minutes before closing.

Is the cable car open in winter?

According to the official timetable, the cable car is closed in January and February (and also listed as closed in December). The operator may also close temporarily for annual maintenance, so it’s best to check the official status before you go.

Is the Dubrovnik Pass valid for the cable car?

No. The official Dubrovnik Pass covers the City Walls, selected museums/galleries, and public transport, but the cable car requires a separate ticket.

Can I buy a one-way ticket and walk down?

Yes. One-way tickets are available, and many visitors ride up for the views and walk down afterwards. Wear proper shoes, bring water, and take care on loose gravel/steps.

Is the cable car accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes. The operator states both stations are wheelchair accessible; the lower station has a ramp and the upper station includes an elevator.