Dubrovnik Cable Car
The Dubrovnik Cable Car is one of the city’s top attractions, which offers a quick and exciting way to see Dubrovnik from above. With panoramic views of the historic Old Town, the clear blue Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands, a ride on the Cable Car is a must-do for anyone visiting Dubrovnik. This high-up viewpoint is perfect for taking some of the best photos of the city, making the Cable Car a popular choice for both tourists and locals.
We’ve listed everything you need to plan your trip on the Dubrovnik Cable Car, including information on ticket prices, operating hours, and dining options at the top. We’ve also shared tips on how to make the most of your visit, from the best times to go to insider advice on avoiding crowds and finding the perfect spots to take in the views.
Why ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car?
The Dubrovnik Cable Car takes you on a short, 3-4 minute ride up to the top of Mount Srđ, a 412-meter (1,352-feet) high hill that overlooks the city. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the shimmering Adriatic Sea, the nearby Elafiti Islands, and even neighboring countries on clear days. These panoramic views are particularly stunning at sunset or during clear weather, which makes the Cable Car ride a highlight for many visitors.
Originally opened in 1969, the Dubrovnik Cable Car quickly became a significant draw for tourists, offering a convenient way to reach the top of Mount Srđ. However, its operations were halted in 1991 due to damage sustained during the Croatian War of Independence. After years of restoration and modernization, the Cable Car reopened in 2010, featuring new cabins and improved capacity, and has become more popular than ever. It’s a short but memorable journey that offers one of the best vantage points in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik Cable Car alternatives
When visiting Dubrovnik, travelers often weigh their options between the iconic Dubrovnik Cable Car and guided tours that provide a more comprehensive experience. Here, we compare the two options: the Cable Car ride and the Dubrovnik Panorama Tour.
The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers a brief yet scenic ride to Mount Srđ lasting approximately 3-4 minutes each way. For a ticket price of €27, visitors can enjoy stunning aerial views of the Old Town and the surrounding landscape. This experience is self-guided, meaning there is no additional context or historical information provided during the ride.
On the other hand, the Dubrovnik Panorama Tour is priced slightly higher (€35) and lasts nearly two hours. This guided tour includes transport to Mount Srđ and various other viewpoints around Dubrovnik while providing insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide. Participants can expect to learn about the history, culture, and architecture of Dubrovnik while avoiding the crowds and enjoying panoramic views that may not be accessible via the Cable Car alone.
Ultimately, you should consider what you value most in your experience. If you’re seeking a quick aerial view of Dubrovnik, the Cable Car will provide a nice and scenic ride. If you’re interested in a more immersive experience with detailed information about the city’s history and culture, you may find the Panorama Tour to be a better fit.
Dubrovnik Cable Car tickets
How much is the Cable Car in Dubrovnik?
Ticket prices for the Dubrovnik Cable Car are as follows: a round-trip ticket for adults costs €27, while a round-trip ticket for children aged 4 to 12 is priced at €7. Children under the age of four can ride for free.
If you prefer a one-way journey, an adult one-way ticket is available for €15, and for children aged 4 to 12, the one-way ticket costs €4. This option allows you to take in the breathtaking views from the top and then choose to hike back down for a more adventurous experience.
Where to buy Cable Car tickets in Dubrovnik?
Cable Car tickets can be purchased at the cash register located at the lower Cable Car station, where both cash and credit cards are accepted. Additionally, tickets can be acquired from the ticketing machine at the same station, which accepts credit cards only.
Tickets can also be bought online through the Dubrovnik Cable Car website, which is a great way to avoid the queues during busy periods. Some hotels and local tour operators also sell tickets, often bundled with other tours or experiences. While it is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, doing so is advisable during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues.
Does the Dubrovnik Pass include the Cable Car?
Currently, the Dubrovnik Pass — which offers access to many of the city’s key museums and attractions — does not include the Cable Car. You’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for the ride.
Dubrovnik Cable Car hours
The Cable Car starts as soon as there are enough passengers, and the final departure from the lower station occurs thirty minutes prior to closing time.
It operates daily, but hours can vary depending on the season, so it’s worth checking the timetable ahead of time. In peak season (June to August), it typically runs from 9:00 AM to midnight, allowing you to catch both day and evening views. In the spring the hours are reduced, while the Cable Car is closed from November to February.
Why is the Dubrovnik Cable Car closed?
Cable Car is closed during the winter. Throughout the rest of the year, it may close temporarily due to maintenance or weather conditions, such as high winds or storms. Always check the official website or local information on the day of your visit to ensure it’s operating.
Dubrovnik Cable Car best time to visit
To make the most of your trip, consider visiting early in the morning or closer to sunset when the light is perfect for photos, and the crowds are thinner. The light during this time creates a beautiful, warm glow over the city, perfect for photography and enjoying the views in a more relaxed atmosphere.
What to do at the top of Mount Srđ?
Once you reach the top of Mount Srđ, there’s plenty to do beyond just soaking in the views:
Fort Imperial
You can visit the Fort Imperial, a historic site dating back to the early 19th century that played a significant role during the Croatian War of Independence. The fort also houses a museum with exhibits that offer insight into Dubrovnik’s history, adding an educational element to your visit. Ticket price for adults is €5, for schoolchildren and students it’s €3, while the entrance for children under the age of 7 is free of charge.
Dubrovnik Cable Car Panorama restaurant
For those looking to relax, there’s Panorama restaurant & bar at the summit where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the scenery. The restaurant offers a variety of local dishes along with some of the best views in Dubrovnik. It’s a great place to stop in for a coffee, a light snack, or a full meal, while enjoying this unique setting.
A nature walk or hike back
For a more active experience, consider buying a one-way ticket up and hiking back down. The walk takes about 45 minutes and allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery at your own pace, providing a more budget-friendly option.
Dubrovnik Cable Car location
Where is the Cable Car in Dubrovnik?
The Cable Car departs from a station just outside the eastern entrance to Old Town Dubrovnik (Ploče gate), specifically on Petra Krešimira IV Street. Check out the Cable Car location on the Google Map.
How to get to Dubrovnik Cable Car?
The Cable Car is easily accessible by foot from the Old Town, taking about 10 minutes from the Ploče Gate. Alternatively, taxis and local buses can drop you off directly at the station. If you’re driving, there’s limited parking available nearby, though it fills up quickly during busy times.
How long to walk down from Dubrovnik Cable Car?
If you’re up for a hike, walking down from Mount Srđ is a popular choice. The trail is steep but well-maintained and offers great views along the way. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on hot days.
Is the Dubrovnik Cable Car worth it?
The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers a unique opportunity to experience the city from above, providing sweeping views of the Old Town, Adriatic Sea, and surrounding islands. While the ticket price might feel steep considering a short duration of the ride, it does provide a memorable experience. The Cable Car’s convenience, stunning panoramic views, and quick access to the top of Mount Srđ make it a popular choice for visitors wanting to see Dubrovnik from a different perspective.
For those who want to make the most of their time in Dubrovnik, consider expanding your experience with the Dubrovnik Panorama Tour, a guided journey that takes you to the top of Mount Srđ and other stunning viewpoints, including the Dubrovnik Bridge and the Ombla River Spring. This tour provides a broader perspective of the city and its surroundings, making it a perfect complement or an alternative to your Cable Car adventure.