Old Town Dubrovnik Port (Old City Harbour)

Dubrovnik’s Old City Port is the small harbour tucked inside the Old Town walls at the sea end of Stradun. It’s one of the easiest places to get that classic “Dubrovnik by the sea” view, stroll the Porporela promenade, and catch the ferry to Lokrum Island.

Most visitors arrive through Vrata od Ribarnice (Fish Market Gate), the historic sea-facing entrance into the harbour area. From here, you’ll see the Old Port’s defining features: the sheltered basin with local boats, the iconic stone arches of the former arsenal shipyard, and the two breakwaters that protected Dubrovnik’s maritime lifeline for centuries, Kaše across the bay and Porporela in front of St. John’s Fortress.

If Island Lokrum is on your plan, this is the departure point: boats run seasonally and schedules can change with conditions. Tickets typically include both return transport and nature reserve entry (currently €30 for adults, €5 for children 7–18, and free for children up to 7), so it’s worth checking the latest details before you go.

Old City Port quick overview

• Where: Inside the Old Town, at the sea end of Stradun by Vrata Ribarnice (Fish Market Gate)
• Best for: Harbour photos, a quick promenade walk, views of St. John’s Fortress, Lokrum ferry departures
• Time needed: 15–45 minutes (longer if you add museums or Lokrum)
• Cost: Free to visit; ferries and tours are paid separately
• Good to know: Stone surfaces and steps around the harbour can be slippery, especially near the waterline

Where is Dubrovnik’s Old Port and how to get there

The Old City Port sits on the eastern side of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, right where Stradun meets the sea. The easiest landmark is Vrata Ribarnice (Fish Market Gate), the large stone gate that leads directly into the harbour area beside the arsenal arches.

• From Pile Gate (west entrance): walk straight down Stradun to its far end (Luža Square), then follow signs toward the harbour/Fish Market Gate.
• From Ploče Gate (east entrance): enter through Ploče Gate and walk a few minutes toward Luža and the harbour side (usually the quickest approach from the Ploče/Banje area).
• Already in the Old Town: aim for the “sea end” of Stradun, once you reach Luža, the harbour entrances are immediately nearby.

Coming from Gruž (main ferry/cruise port and bus station), the simplest option is a city bus to Pile (Old Town transport hub). The most useful lines for visitors are 1A and 1B (frequent and pass Gruž), and in summer you may also see Line 1 listed as a direct option; depending on where you are in Gruž, Line 3 can also be a good alternative. For bus stops, line numbers, and a practical overview, use our Dubrovnik City Bus Map.

If you’re staying in Lapad or Babin Kuk, Bus 6 is the most common “straight to Pile” route (popular with hotel areas). Some parts of Lapad are also served by 2A (a smaller bus) and 4 (Hotel Palace area), depending on your exact location - again, the bus map makes it easy to match your nearest stop to the right line.

Bus ticket prices (Libertas Dubrovnik): a 1-hour ticket costs €1.73 (valid for 60 minutes after first validation), while buying a ticket on the bus is typically €2.50 for one ride. If you plan to use buses more than once, consider a 24-hour pass (€5.31) or a 3-day pass (€11.95).

What to do at the Old City Port

The Old City Port is best enjoyed slowly: a short promenade walk, a few “postcard” viewpoints, and a coffee or seafood lunch with the harbour as your backdrop. It’s also one of the rare places in Dubrovnik Old Town where you can sit right by the sea, watch boats come and go, and (in summer) cool off with a swim. If you’re building a sightseeing route, start with our Dubrovnik attractions guide and then return here for a relaxed break by the water.

The Old City Port is one of Dubrovnik’s main starting points for scenic cruises, including the historic-style Karaka - a striking replica of a 16th-century Dubrovnik Republic carrack - with sunset and night sailings, plus seasonal cruises with views toward Island Lokrum and the Elaphiti Islands.

Walk Porporela for sea views, sunsets, and a relaxed local vibe

Porporela is the stone breakwater that curves out in front of St. John’s Fortress. Locals and visitors use it as a “sea terrace” for sitting, chatting, and watching Lokrum and the open Adriatic. In the evening it’s especially popular for a low-key sunset stroll, with Old Town walls behind you and the lighthouse beacon at the end of the pier.

If you continue past the pier and follow the walls, you’ll reach a small rocky bathing area that becomes a summer hotspot. Many people come here specifically to swim because it’s right next to the Old Town and has dramatic views of the walls and Lokrum. Wear water shoes if you have them (rocky entry), and be mindful that conditions can change quickly if there’s swell or wind.

In the evening, Porporela turns into one of the Old Town’s simplest pleasures: a breezy waterfront stroll with benches facing Lokrum and the open sea, especially popular with couples after sunset.

For a harbour-side break, you can pair the walk with a drink or meal at Gradska kavana Arsenal on Luža Square, then loop back to the water for photos by the arches and the boats.

See the Arsenal arches and the harbour entrance landmarks

The most recognisable “Old Port” scene is the line of historic stone arches near Fish Market Gate (the old arsenal/shipyard zone) and the protected basin of small boats. It’s a quick loop: enter through Vrata Ribarnice, walk along the waterline toward St. John’s Fortress, then return via the inner harbour edge for different angles and photos.

Step into St. John’s Fortress area for an easy museum add-on

Right at the harbour entrance, the St. John’s Fortress area is the most convenient place nearby to add a short indoor visit on a hot day (or if the weather turns). It’s also one of the best spots to appreciate how the port was defended and controlled from the sea.

Best viewpoints and photos of the Old Port

• From Porporela back toward Old Town: the best close-up “harbour mood” shot with boats, arches, and city stonework in one frame.
• From Luža Square side terraces: an elevated-looking perspective over the harbour entrance area without leaving the Old Town.
• From the City Walls: the classic high viewpoint looking down over the basin, breakwaters, and fortifications (best earlier in the morning for fewer people in frame).

Where to eat and drink near the Old Port

If you want an easy harbour-side stop, these are three well-known options within a few minutes’ walk of the water:

• Gradska Kavana Arsenal (Luža Square): a historic café-restaurant in the Old Town with a terrace and views toward the Old City Port area, ideal for coffee, breakfast, or a sit-down meal if you want atmosphere right in the centre.
• Poklisar (Old Port): a long-running, family-run restaurant set right by the harbour, often chosen for seafood and a “by the boats” setting.
• Lokanda Peskarija (Old Port): a classic harbour-front seafood spot under the city walls, known for simple fish dishes and terrace views toward St. John’s Fortress.

For more options nearby (including budget-friendly picks and special-occasion dining), browse our Dubrovnik restaurants guide. If you’re looking for cocktails, wine bars, or somewhere lively after sunset, see bars and nightlife in Dubrovnik.

Nearby attractions within a short walk

The Old City Port sits right at the eastern end of the Old Town, so it’s easy to combine with Dubrovnik’s biggest “must-sees” in one smooth loop. These are all just a few minutes away on foot:

• Stradun – the main limestone street through the Old Town, perfect for a simple west-to-east sightseeing walk.
• Dubrovnik City Walls – the best viewpoint over the Old Port and rooftops (you can even enter near the Old Port at St John’s area).
• Rector’s Palace – one of the Old Town’s most important historic buildings, just steps from Luža Square.
• Sponza Palace – a landmark at the eastern end of Stradun, right by Luža Square.
• Church of St Blaise – Dubrovnik’s iconic baroque church and one of the best quick photo stops in the center.
• Big Onofrio’s Fountain – the classic meeting point near the Pile end of Stradun.
• Pile Gate – the main Old Town entrance and the easiest transport hub for buses and taxis.
• Fort Lovrijenac – a dramatic cliff-top fortress just outside the walls near Pile Gate.

If you’re deciding what to prioritise, our Dubrovnik attractions hub makes it easy to build an itinerary around the Old Port, Stradun, and the City Walls.

Lokrum Island ferry from the Old Port

The regular public boat to Lokrum Island departs from Dubrovnik’s Old City Port by Luža (just a minute or two from the sea end of Stradun). It’s the easiest day trip from the Old Town: the crossing is short, and you arrive directly at Portoč Bay on Lokrum.

Where to buy tickets and where to board

• Tickets: buy at the official sales point at Luža (Old City Port) or online via the official Lokrum ticket shop.
• Boarding: boats depart from the Old City Port (Luža area) and return from Portoč on Lokrum.
• Ticket validity: you can usually purchase in advance and use the ticket within a short window (up to three days from the date shown on the ticket).

How long is the ride?

The boat ride is typically around 15 minutes each way, making Lokrum a great “half-day” option if you want a break from city streets without a long transfer.

Ticket prices

• Adults: €30
• Children 7–18: €5
• Children up to and including 7: free

These tickets are issued by the Lokrum Reserve and are designed as a single-visit ticket for the protected area, so they’re best treated as an “island entry + transport” purchase rather than a simple boat fare.

Timetable and seasonal notes (important)

• Boat schedule is seasonal: departures vary by month and by demand, so check the latest timetable at our Lokrum Island Guide.
• Winter closures: Lokrum is not open to visitors year-round, and winter closures are normal. If you’re visiting outside peak season, always check current notices first.
• Weather can cancel boats: rough sea and strong wind can stop departures with little notice, so keep your plan flexible.
• Don’t miss the last return boat: staying on the island after the final official boat is not permitted.

Quick tips for a smooth Lokrum day trip

• Arrive a little early at Luža in peak season to avoid queues and get your preferred departure time.
• Bring water, sun protection, and good shoes for rocky paths and uneven surfaces.
• Follow reserve rules: stay on marked paths, don’t feed wildlife, and note that smoking/open flames and unauthorized drones are prohibited.

If you’d rather skip fixed ferry times or combine Lokrum with other nearby spots, you can also visit Lokrum Island on a private tour. Private speedboats and sea kayaking tours typically depart from the Dubrovnik area and let you tailor the day - more time for swimming and snorkeling, a quick loop around the island’s coves, or an easy add-on like a panoramic cruise past the Old Town walls before returning when it suits your schedule (ideal for families, couples, or anyone who wants a more flexible itinerary than the public ferry).

Boat tours and sea activities near the Old Port

The Old City Port is one of the best starting points in Dubrovnik if you want to experience the city from the water. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find meeting points for guided sea kayaking, short panoramic cruises around the city walls, and private boat trips that combine Lokrum Island, nearby caves, and swim stops, perfect when you want a break from the Old Town crowds without losing the views.

Sea kayaking and snorkeling (Old Town walls, Lokrum, Betina Cave)

Dubrovnik’s signature active experience is a guided kayak tour around the Old Town walls, often continuing toward Lokrum and stopping at Betina Cave for a swim and snorkeling break. Most tours are beginner-friendly and include a guide plus equipment (kayak, paddle, life vest, and basic snorkeling gear), making it an easy way to see the walls from sea level and reach small coves that are hard to access on foot. If you want a deeper overview of routes, seasons, and what to expect, see sea kayaking in Dubrovnik.

• Best time to go: early morning for calmer water and fewer boats, or late afternoon for softer light (sunset tours are popular).
• What to bring: swimwear, sun protection, water, and a quick-dry layer; a waterproof phone pouch is handy for photos.
• Safety note: kayaking is weather-dependent, strong wind and choppy seas can change conditions quickly, so operators may adjust routes or cancel for safety.

Short panoramic cruises and sunset boats from the Old Town

If you want views with minimal effort, look for panoramic boat rides that loop around the Old Town walls and Lokrum in about an hour. These trips are popular for golden-hour photos and often include drinks on board. Meeting points are commonly listed as the Old Port/Porat Dubrovnik area, so double-check the exact pier name on your booking confirmation.

Private boat rental and custom itineraries

For maximum flexibility, consider boat rental in Dubrovnik or a private charter that lets you control departure time, pace, and how long you spend swimming or snorkeling. A popular full-day upgrade is heading beyond Lokrum to the Elaphiti Islands, where you can mix quiet bays with short island stops, ideal for families, couples, and anyone who wants a more relaxed day on the water.

Booking tips (avoid the most common mix-ups)

• Confirm the departure point: Dubrovnik has both the Old City Port and the main port in Gruž, make sure your tour clearly states which one.
• Check inclusions: for kayaking, confirm equipment + snorkeling gear; for boat tours, check drinks, swim stops, and whether towels are provided.
• Plan around sea conditions: if the forecast is windy, choose a more sheltered itinerary or a later/earlier slot when conditions can be calmer.

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History and architecture of the Old Port

Dubrovnik’s Old City Port is more than a pretty harbour, it was the city’s maritime lifeline and a key part of its defensive system. Much of the layout you see today took shape in the 15th century, when the harbour was engineered into a safer, more controllable basin for trade, ship repair, and protection from storms and enemy ships. If you want broader context on how the port fits into the rise of the Dubrovnik Republic, this history of Dubrovnik overview is a useful companion read.

Vrata Ribarnice (Fish Market Gate) and the “Peškarija”

The main entrance into the harbour area is Vrata Ribarnice, the monumental Gothic gate built in 1381. In older records it appears under the name Porta Magana due to its size. The open space in front of the gate was historically tied to the fish market, which is why this part of the harbour is still associated with the local name peškarija.

The Arsenal shipyards: large and small

The Old Port’s most recognisable landmark is the line of big stone arches along the water. These belong to the Large Arsenal, a shipyard structure first built in the late 12th century and expanded in the 15th century. (You’ll notice three large arches today; the original fourth arch was later walled in.) Nearby, the port also had a Small Arsenal with three arches, used for repairing smaller boats. Together, these arsenals show how central shipbuilding and maintenance were to Dubrovnik’s seafaring economy.

On the harbour side, the Large Arsenal (the state shipyard) once built, repaired, and stored Dubrovnik’s galleys. Historic accounts describe it as a series of bays divided by arches that supported the roof, with the seaward openings widened over time as ships grew larger, early narrow entrances were even temporarily closed with planks. Today, the same building hosts Gradska kavana Arsenal Restaurant and Bar, a fitting setting for a coffee or meal in a space shaped by Dubrovnik’s maritime past.

If you want to continue the port story indoors, the Dubrovnik Aquarium and Maritime Museum are right next to the harbour in St. John’s Fortress.

Od Ponte Gate, St. Luke’s Tower, and the guarded harbour entrance

Two historic gates served the port zone: the Fish Market Gate to the east and Od Ponte Gate (built in 1476) to the west of the Arsenal. On the eastern side, the old St. Luke’s Tower helped protect the harbour, while the approach to the port was also guarded from the wider fortification system, with key defenses overlooking the entrance.

Kaše and Porporela: the breakwaters that protected the harbour

The port’s calm waters are not accidental. The Kaše breakwater was built in 1485 (designed by engineer Paskoje Miličević) to protect the harbour from south-eastern winds and waves. It was constructed from huge stone blocks set on wooden foundations, and it also improved the city’s ability to control ships entering the port. In times of danger, a heavy chain could be stretched across the harbour entrance at night, using Kaše as part of the system.

The curved Porporela promenade in front of St. John’s Fortress is a later addition: it was built in 1873, completing the 19th-century redevelopment of the historic harbour and creating the beloved waterfront walk visitors enjoy today.

Visitor tips for a better experience

• Go early for photos (and breathing room): the Old Port is at its calmest in the morning before day-trippers and cruise excursions peak. Late afternoon is also great for softer light around Porporela and the harbour arches.
• Wear shoes with grip: Dubrovnik’s polished limestone streets and steps can get extremely slippery when wet, especially on Stradun and near the harbour approaches.
• Swimming at Porporela: in summer, Porporela is one of the most popular “quick dip” spots in (or right next to) the Old Town. It’s rocky rather than a beach, so water shoes help, and you should avoid swimming when the sea is rough.
• Watch the waves: even on warm days, occasional swell can splash the pier and lower rocks, don’t sit too close to the edge if the sea is lively.
• Respect working areas: the Old Port is a functioning harbour. Keep boarding zones clear (especially around the Lokrum ferry area) and avoid blocking mooring lines or access points.
• Plan around cruise flows: Dubrovnik actively manages cruise impacts; when ships are in, the Old Town can surge quickly. If you want a quieter harbour loop, do it first, then save cafés, museums, and a longer meal for later.
• Accessibility: expect uneven stone paving, steps, and narrow passages around the harbour edges. If you need the easiest route, approach via the main Old Town entrances and stick to flatter streets before heading down toward the port.

Old Port vs Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž (important)

Dubrovnik has two different “ports” that visitors often mix up. The Old City Port (this page) is the small harbour inside the Old Town walls, right by Stradun, used mainly for sightseeing, local boats, and the Lokrum ferry. The Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž is the main passenger terminal about 3–3.5 km from the Old Town, next to the Main Bus Station, where most domestic and international ferries operate.

• Going to islands or other cities by ferry/catamaran? You almost always need Dubrovnik Ferry Port in Gruž. For routes, timetables, and planning help, start with Dubrovnik ferries.
• Heading to Korčula or Mljet? These trips typically depart from Gruž, use our guides to plan ahead: Korčula and Mljet.
• Continuing your trip to Split? Many travellers connect via ferry or bus, see our Split guide for what to do and how to plan your next stop.
• Visiting Lokrum today? Head to the Old City Port in the Old Town (boats depart from the Old Harbour area).
• Arriving by cruise ship? Most ships dock in Gruž, but smaller vessels can sometimes tender to the Old Port, so always follow your cruise line’s instructions.

Quick rule of thumb: if you have luggage, a ferry ticket, or a departure time printed on a timetable, double-check the word “Gruž” (or the address Obala Ivana Pavla II), that means the main ferry terminal, not the Old Town harbour.

Cruise tenders and small-ship arrivals at the Old Port

Dubrovnik can feel like two different cruise experiences, depending on where your ship is positioned. Most large ships dock at Port Gruž (the main cruise and ferry terminal), but smaller ships can sometimes anchor outside the Old Town and bring passengers in by tender directly to the Old City Port (often labeled “Porat Dubrovnik” on cruise information).

If your ship is tendering to the Old Port

• You’re in the best possible spot for sightseeing: the tender drop-off is right inside/next to the Old Town harbour, only a couple of minutes from the main Old Town sights.
• Plan your return carefully: tender service can pause or slow in rough sea, and queues can build near the end of the port call, aim to head back earlier rather than cutting it close.
• Quick route into Old Town: follow signs toward Luža/Stradun, then work your way to your priorities (City Walls, Rector’s Palace, Stradun) before the busiest peak.

If your ship docks in Gruž

• Expect a transfer: the Old Town is about 3 km away, usually reached by shuttle/taxi or public buses to Pile Gate.
• Public bus tip: lines 1A, 1B, and 3 are common options between the port area and Pile, and Pile is the easiest hub for entering the Old Town on foot. For stops and line maps, use Dubrovnik City Bus Map.

Dubrovnik actively manages peak crowds in the historic center, so if you want a calmer Old Town experience on a cruise day, start early, prioritize one “must-do” first (City Walls or a harbour loop), then slow down with a coffee or lunch once the main wave passes through.

Address & contact details

Street: Ribarnica
Postcode: 20000
City: Dubrovnik

FAQ – Old Town Dubrovnik Port

Is Dubrovnik Old Port worth visiting?

Yes—especially if you want an easy, scenic stop inside the Old Town. It’s ideal for harbour photos, a quick walk along Porporela, and as the departure point for the Lokrum ferry. Even 15–30 minutes here adds a “Dubrovnik from the sea” perspective to your Old Town route.

Where does the Lokrum ferry leave from?

The public Lokrum ferry departs from Dubrovnik’s Old City Port at the Luža area (near the sea end of Stradun). Follow signs for the Old Harbour/Porat Dubrovnik once you reach Luža Square.

How long is the Lokrum ferry ride?

The crossing is short—typically around 15 minutes each way—making Lokrum one of the easiest half-day trips from Dubrovnik Old Town.

Does the Lokrum ferry run year-round?

No. Lokrum is a protected nature reserve and visitor access is seasonal, with limited or no service in winter. Always check the current schedule and notices before you go, especially outside peak season.

Can you swim at Porporela?

Yes, in summer many people swim from the rocky areas around Porporela. It’s not a sandy beach, so water shoes help, and it’s best to skip swimming when the sea is rough or windy.

Do cruise tenders arrive at the Old Port?

Sometimes. Most large ships dock at Gruž, but smaller ships can anchor offshore and tender passengers directly to the Old City Port (often shown as “Porat Dubrovnik”). Always follow your cruise line’s instructions for the exact landing point.