Public Transportation: Cavtat

Bus Routes & Ticketing

Bus Line 10 is the most important route for visitors. It directly connects Cavtat town center to Dubrovnik's Pile Gate, the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town. The route passes by Dubrovnik Airport, a convenient transfer option. In Cavtat, the main bus stop is centrally located near the harbor.

This route presents a direct link to Dubrovnik's main attractions without needing a car or taxi. While some less frequent local lines serve villages within the wider Konavle region, Line 10 serves as the main route for tourists reaching Dubrovnik.

Fare Options & Accessibility

Single tickets: Purchase directly from the bus driver (cash, exact change helpful) or from kiosks (Tisak stands) in advance (slightly cheaper).
Multi-Day Passes: Not generally available for Cavtat alone.
Line 10 operates frequently during high season (June-August), typically every 30-60 minutes. Frequency decreases during shoulder and low seasons. Check current timetables online or at stops.
Accessibility: Public buses generally have steps, a challenge for wheelchair users. Newer buses may offer low-floor access, but not guaranteed. Cavtat's center has cobbled streets and steps.

Route Map

Bus Line 10 connects Cavtat town center, Dubrovnik Airport, and Dubrovnik's Pile Gate.

Onboard vs. Kiosk Tickets

Tickets purchased from kiosks are usually slightly cheaper than those bought directly from the driver.

Ticket Validation

Remember to validate your ticket by inserting it into the machine near the driver upon boarding.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

Planning Your Journey

Always check the latest timetables online or at bus stops before planning your journey, especially outside of peak season.
Purchase tickets from kiosks if possible. This saves a small amount of money per trip.
Be aware of crowds. Buses may become crowded during peak tourist season, notably Line 10 to and from Dubrovnik.

Optimizing Travel Times

Plan your travel during off-peak hours if you want to avoid crowds on popular routes.
Familiarize yourself with the main bus stops in Cavtat and Dubrovnik for easier navigation.
Look for posted timetables at bus stops; they are generally reliable.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Fares & Safety

Licensed Taxis

White vehicles with taxi signs. Find at designated stands (near Cavtat bus stop, Dubrovnik Airport). Confirm fare before journey.

Typical Fares

Metered fares. Airport to Cavtat: €25-40. Cash often preferred, but cards increasingly accepted.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Bolt are available in the Dubrovnik area for rides to/from Cavtat. Fares are estimated in-app. Confirm driver/vehicle.

Safety Tips

Use licensed taxis. For ride-sharing, verify details in the app. Share trip details with a trusted contact. Journeys are tracked.

Rental Options: Cars, Scooters & Bikes

Rental options meet various travel needs, from exploring wider regions to local sightseeing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.

Car Rental Information

Requirements: Valid national driving license. IDP is recommended/required if your license is not in Latin script.
Drivers must be at least 21 years old (sometimes 23 or 25 for certain car categories) and have held their license for at least two years.
A major credit card in the driver's name is for the security deposit.
Companies: Major international rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Sixt) have offices at Dubrovnik Airport. Many local Croatian companies also operate.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available in Dubrovnik and occasionally in Cavtat. Helmets are mandatory.
Scooters are a popular choice for navigating coastal roads and finding parking.
Cavtat does not have a widespread bicycle sharing program. Some hotels and local shops offer bicycle rentals.
Bikes present an excellent way to explore the town’s peninsulas and the flatter parts of the Konavle Valley.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

In Croatia, you drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Headlights must remain on at all times, day or night.
Speed limits are typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) outside urban areas, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways.

Main roads are generally in good condition. Coastal roads may be winding, requiring careful driving.
Parking in Cavtat limits appear, especially near the center and harbor promenade. Most parking areas require payment.
During peak season, finding a parking spot may be challenging. Plan to walk or use other transport if you stay in the town center.

Walking & Cycling: Pedestrian-Friendly Exploration

Pedestrian Areas

Cavtat's old town and its entire waterfront promenade are largely pedestrian-friendly. This area is best explored on foot to appreciate the architecture, harbor views, and local atmosphere.

Walking Paths

Scenic walking paths extend along the two peninsulas that enclose the harbor: Sustjepan and Rat. These paths present beautiful views of the sea, the town, and the surrounding landscape, and permit access to secluded beaches and coves.

Cycling & Safety

Dedicated cycling infrastructure within Cavtat itself is limited. The broader Konavle region presents many scenic cycling routes. Safety for cyclists is generally good, but be mindful of traffic on main roads.

Specialized Transportation

Cavtat offers a few specialized transport options that broaden the visitor experience.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Frequent boat taxi services connect Cavtat to Dubrovnik's Old Port and Lokrum Island during tourist season.
These boat taxis present a scenic and traffic-free way to travel, with beautiful coastal views.
They depart regularly from Cavtat's harbor.
River transportation is not applicable to Cavtat.

Cable Cars & Funiculars

Cavtat does not have cable cars or funiculars.
However, Dubrovnik has a cable car to the top of Mount Srđ, with panoramic views of Dubrovnik and surrounding islands.
This activity is accessible from Dubrovnik by bus from Cavtat.
Mount Srđ views are highly recommended.

Accessibility Services

Limited Accessible Options

Dedicated accessible transport services may be limited in Cavtat.

Hotel Transfers

Some newer hotels may offer accessible transfer services.

Pre-Arrangement

For travelers with mobility challenges, arrange specialized transport in advance, notably for airport transfers or day trips. Local taxis may accommodate some needs, but pre-booking an accessible vehicle is the most reliable option.

Additional Transport Considerations

Private Charters

Private yacht or boat charters are available for personalized excursions.
These trips may reach secluded coves and islands not accessible by public boat taxis.
Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Excursion Buses

Many tour operators in Cavtat arrange day trips by bus to nearby attractions.
Destinations include Mostar (BiH), Kotor (Montenegro), or local vineyards in Konavle.
These tours often include transportation and guide services.

Parking in Cavtat & Dubrovnik

Parking in Cavtat limits appear, especially near the center and harbor promenade.
Most parking areas in Cavtat require payment.
During peak season, finding a parking spot may be challenging.
Plan to walk or use other transport if you stay in the town center to avoid parking difficulties.

Dubrovnik Old Town's surrounding area has very limited and expensive parking.
For day trips to Dubrovnik from Cavtat, the public bus (Line 10) or boat taxi is strongly recommended.
This eliminates the need to find parking in Dubrovnik's crowded zones.
Consider walking from parking zones to attractions if driving.

Planning Your Transfers Effectively

Effective transfer planning significantly improves your travel experience, saving time and reducing stress.

Airport Transfers Strategy

For direct transfers, taxis or ride-sharing apps (Uber/Bolt) from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat are quickest.
The Line 10 public bus is a cost-effective alternative for airport-to-Cavtat travel.
Confirm bus schedules, especially outside of peak season, to match your arrival/departure times.
Pre-book private transfers for larger groups or if you prefer a seamless, pre-arranged arrival.

Inter-City & Local Travel

For day trips to Dubrovnik, use the Line 10 bus or a scenic boat taxi from Cavtat's harbor.
Avoid driving your rental car into Dubrovnik's Old Town area due to parking difficulties.
Consider buses for longer-distance travel within Croatia; they cover many cities.
Rent bicycles locally to explore Cavtat's peninsulas and the Konavle Valley at your own pace.

Transport Takeaways

Walkable Cavtat

Cavtat's compact size makes walking the main and most enjoyable mode of exploration within the town.

Explore the old town on foot.
Enjoy waterfront promenades.
Access peninsulas and coves.

Dubrovnik Connectivity

Line 10 bus and boat taxis connect Cavtat to Dubrovnik for easy day trips without parking concerns.

Frequent bus services.
Scenic boat taxi option.
Avoid city driving stress.

Rental Flexibility

Car rentals suit exploring the wider Konavle region, offering freedom to discover vineyards and villages.

Discover hidden gems.
Visit local wineries.
Independent exploration.

Final Safety Reminders

General Precautions

Secure valuables, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Keep emergency contacts handy and inform others of your itinerary.
Comprehensive travel insurance protects against unforeseen events.

Health & Environment

Protect yourself from the strong sun with appropriate attire and sunscreen.
Use insect repellent, notably in the evenings.
Wear water shoes on pebble beaches to protect against sea urchins.

Final Travel Insight

Cavtat offers a tranquil base with easy access to the Dubrovnik region. Proper planning for transport, packing, and safety makes for a pleasant journey.

Embrace local culture, enjoy the natural beauty, and make unforgettable memories in this Croatian jewel.

Public Transportation