A Traveller’s Guide to Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport Dubrovnik Ruđer Bošković Airport, known as DBV or Čilipi Airport, offers a compact and modern experience for travellers exploring Croatia’s Adriatic coast.
The passenger experience at DBV, handling around 2.5 million passengers annually across 70 destinations, is shaped by its single, airy terminal, primarily serving leisure travellers from April to October. Airlines like Croatia Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, BA, and Lufthansa connect to major European cities, with long-haul flights to New York and Dubai. The terminal, rebuilt in 2017, spans 24,181 square metres with clear signage and a welcoming atmosphere, featuring local touches like Adriatic-inspired art and a view of the Đurović Cave beneath the runway. Its modest size ensures easy navigation, though summer crowds can make it feel busy.
Accessing the airport from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, 21 kilometres away, is straightforward. The Platanus shuttle bus departs after each flight arrival, reaching the main bus station in Gruor the Cable Car station near Old Town in 30-40 minutes for £8 one-way or £11 return, with tickets available at the Platanus counter or online. Public buses by Libertas Dubrovnik serve Cavtat and Dubrovnik for £2.50, though schedules are less frequent.
Taxis and rideshares like Uber, stationed outside Terminal B, cost £34-£40 to the city centre, taking 25-30 minutes, with pre-booked transfers offering convenience. Car rental desks, including Avis and Sixt, are in the arrivals hall, and a 200-space car park offers free parking for the first 15 minutes, then £1 per hour. Driving via the D8 motorway is simple, though summer traffic can extend travel to an hour.
The airport’s layout features a single terminal with three areas: Area A for baggage sorting, Area B for arrivals, and Area C for departures, spread over three levels. With 16 gates (14 for international flights), eight security lanes, and 10 check-in desks, the terminal is efficient but can feel cramped during peak summer hours. Passengers board via aerobridges or buses, and ongoing expansions may cause minor disruptions. International arrivals pass through passport control in Area B, which can slow progress.
Delays are most common in June-August due to high passenger volumes, with security and check-in queues lengthening. Weather, particularly summer storms, and limited gate space can affect schedules, and baggage claim may take up to an hour for international flights. Arriving three hours early for international flights and two for domestic is advised, with airline apps recommended for gate updates.
Dining options include Lindo, Marenda, and Franck cafes on Levels 2 and 3, offering sandwiches, Croatian snacks, and coffee, though no outlets operate 24/7. Prices are reasonable, with a coffee at £2.50. Retail features a duty-free shop in international departures, open 5:30 am. to midnight, selling perfumes, alcohol, and Croatian products like wine and truffles, alongside a newsstand and souvenir shops with local crafts. Most shops close by 10 pm.
Facilities cater to traveller needs, with free Wi-Fi via “Dubrovnik Airport (free)” for 15 minutes after email registration, though connectivity can be slow. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the Business Lounge and Atlantic Lounge on Level 3, accessible to premium passengers or for a fee. Charging stations are limited, with some reported cable issues, so bringing a European adapter is wise. Accessibility features include ramps, lifts, low check-in counters, and personal assistance, bookable 48 hours in advance. A smoking lounge is available airside, and a currency exchange, ATMs, and a lost-and-found office operate in the arrivals area. The airport closes from midnight to 4 am.
, preventing overnight stays, but nearby hotels like Apartments Kirigin, 8.6 miles away, offer shuttle services.
On-time performance is generally reliable, supported by Croatia’s longest runway, accommodating heavy aircraft like the Boeing 787. Summer congestion and occasional staffing shortages can cause minor delays. Connections within the single terminal are swift, taking 15-30 minutes for Schengen-to-Schengen transfers. Non-Schengen transfers, requiring passport control, may take 45-60 minutes, with a minimum two-and-a-half-hour layover advised for self-transfers.
Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus check-in is in the main terminal check-in hall (dynamic; desks 1-16 range for international flights; self-service kiosks available). Online bag drop recommended. Departures are most commonly from international gates (e.g., 15-28; dynamic, shown on screens ~30-45 minutes before departure in non-Schengen area).
Ryanair
Ryanair operates daily flights to Dublin from Dubrovnik. Ryanair check-in is in the main terminal, check-in hall (dynamic desks 1-16; self-service kiosks available). Bag drop opens 2 hours prior. Departures are most commonly from international gates 15-28 (non-Schengen; dynamic, announced ~30-40 minutes before departure).
