How to Get from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town (Taxi vs Car Rental)

How to Get from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town (Taxi vs Car Rental)

Rent a car in Dubrovnik Airport or take a taxi? Here is what you really need to know before you decideβ€” with honest numbers, honest advice, and no jargon.

The drive from Dubrovnik to Kotor is one of the most scenic on the entire Adriatic coast

You've just landed at Dubrovnik Airport. Your luggage is ready. The Adriatic air feels amazing. Now comes the question every visitor faces: how do you get to your accommodation?

Option 1: Taxi from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town

A taxi is the easiest option if you are staying only in the Old Town and have no plans for day trips. Here are the key facts:

Distance
~20 km
From airport to Old Town city walls.
Travel time
25–35 min
Depending on traffic. Longer in summer.
One-way cost
~€50
€80–€120 return. Before any day trip rides.
The taxi cost adds up quickly

That is €80–€120 for a return airport ride alone. Add day trips to Montenegro, Mostar, or PeljeΕ‘ac and taxi costs rapidly exceed the price of a rental car.

Option 2: Rent a Car at Dubrovnik Airport

Car rental is recommended for any stay longer than two nights, or if you plan to explore beyond the city walls. With MACK, you pick up your vehicle right after landing and drive directly to your accommodation.

No waiting. No scheduling. No surprises.

Factor Taxi Car Rental
Airport to Old Town cost ~€50 one way From €30–€60 / day
Flexibility None β€” fixed route Full β€” go anywhere, anytime
Day trips Extra cost each time Unlimited β€” already included
Cross-border travel Often refused or very expensive Available with advance notice
Best for 1–2 night stays, Old Town only Exploring Croatia properly

You've just landed at Dubrovnik Airport. Your luggage is ready. The Adriatic air feels amazing. Now comes the question every visitor faces: how do you get to your accommodation?

Option 1: Taxi from Dubrovnik Airport to Old Town

A taxi is the easiest option if you are staying only in the Old Town and have no plans for day trips. Here are the key facts:

Distance
~20 km
From airport to Old Town city walls.
Travel time
25–35 min
Depending on traffic. Longer in summer.
One-way cost
~€50
€50–€80 return. Before any day trip rides.
The taxi cost adds up quickly

That is €50–€80 for a return airport ride alone. Add day trips to Montenegro, Mostar, or PeljeΕ‘ac and taxi costs rapidly exceed the price of a rental car.

Where a Rental Car Takes You

Public transport won't take you everywhere. Taxis for multiple trips become expensive fast. With a rental car from Dubrovnik Airport, these become easy day trips:

  • Montenegro β€” Kotor & Perast (approx. 2 hours)
  • Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina (approx. 2.5 hours)
  • PeljeΕ‘ac wine region (approx. 1.5 hours)
  • Secret beaches around Dubrovnik
  • Panoramic viewpoints above the city

Honest Advice

1–2 nights, Old Town only
Taxi is fine
If you are not leaving the city, a taxi makes sense.
3+ nights, or day trips planned
Rent a car
The smarter, more flexible, and often cheaper option.

We Help You Plan the Drive

We don't just hand over keysβ€”we help you plan your drive. Tell us your route, your accommodation, and what you want to see. We'll make sure the car is ready and the logistics are sorted before you land.

Renting a car from Dubrovnik Airport can often be the most cost-effective solution if you plan to explore beyond the city walls. And the best parts of Croatia are almost always just beyond the city walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can MACK deliver the car directly to my hotel instead of airport pickup?

Yes. We offer vehicle delivery to hotels and addresses within Dubrovnik city limits for a delivery fee. Our representative meets you at your hotel reception β€” no counter, no queue. Due to Old Town traffic restrictions, drop-off arrangements must be confirmed with us in advance.

Is renting a car actually cheaper than taking taxis?

It depends on how you travel. For a single transfer into the city, a taxi is straightforward. But for any stay involving day trips β€” Montenegro, Mostar, PeljeΕ‘ac, or simply moving around the Dubrovnik area β€” the cost of multiple taxis adds up quickly and often exceeds the daily car rental rate. A rental also gives you full flexibility with no scheduling, no waiting, and no per-trip cost.

Can I book a car on the same day I arrive?

Yes β€” we usually have vehicles available and welcome last-minute bookings. That said, booking in advance guarantees your preferred car group is ready at arrivals, which matters most during peak summer season. Whether you book weeks ahead or the morning you land, call the number on your booking or reach out directly and we will do our best to sort you out.

Can I cancel my reservation if my plans change?

Once the contract is signed and the rental has started there is no right of cancellation and no refund for early return. If you need to change or cancel before the rental begins, contact us as early as possible β€” changes can be made with sufficient advance notice.

Is there parking available near Dubrovnik Old Town?

The Old Town within the city walls is closed to private vehicles. The surrounding area operates under strict traffic and parking restrictions β€” some streets are accessible to residents and permit holders only. Public parking garages are the most practical option. We recommend choosing accommodation that includes parking, and we are happy to advise on the best drop-off arrangements when you pick up the car.

What if I only need the car for part of my stay?

That is no problem. We can arrange pickup and return at different points during your stay β€” for example, collecting the car on day three for a road trip and returning it before your last night in the city. Contact us to arrange the logistics.