06/10/2016
Nestled just a stone's throw from Dubrovnik, the picturesque town of Cavtat offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city crowds, yet remains perfectly connected for an unforgettable Croatian holiday. Often hailed as a more tranquil alternative to its famous neighbour, Cavtat boasts stunning natural beauty, a relaxed pace of life, and excellent accessibility, particularly from Dubrovnik Airport. This guide will navigate you through the best ways to get to and from Cavtat, explore its local charm, and highlight why it might just be the ideal base for your next getaway.
Getting from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to Cavtat
Arriving at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and heading to Cavtat is a straightforward affair, thanks to its incredibly close proximity. Cavtat is located approximately 5.8 kilometres from the airport, making it one of the quickest transfers you'll experience in the region. While several options exist, some stand out for their speed and convenience.
By Taxi: The Fastest Route
For sheer speed and ease, a taxi from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat is undoubtedly the top choice. The journey is remarkably short, typically taking around 6 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic and your specific drop-off point within Cavtat. This direct, door-to-door service means you can be checking into your accommodation almost as soon as you've cleared customs.
The cost for a taxi transfer from DBV to Cavtat usually ranges between €11 and €14, making it a highly affordable option for such a quick and direct transfer. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. While you can hail one on the street, using a ride-hailing app or pre-booking can sometimes offer added peace of mind, as these services often monitor driver and vehicle quality.
By Bus: A Direct Option (Weekdays)
While taxis are often highlighted for their practicality, it's worth noting that a direct bus service *does* operate between Dubrovnik Airport Bus Station and Cavtat. This service runs approximately four times a day, specifically from Monday to Friday. If your arrival aligns with the bus schedule and it's a weekday, this can be a budget-friendly alternative. However, due to its limited frequency and weekend non-operation, it requires more planning than simply hopping into a taxi.
Why Cavtat Makes a Great Base for Visiting Dubrovnik
In recent years, Dubrovnik has become an incredibly popular destination, often experiencing significant crowds, especially during peak summer months. While its historical charm is undeniable, the sheer volume of visitors can sometimes detract from the experience.
This is where Cavtat truly shines. By choosing Cavtat as your base, you get the best of both worlds. You're close enough to Dubrovnik to enjoy its iconic sights and vibrant atmosphere, yet you can retreat to the more chilled-out and relaxed pace of Cavtat at the end of the day. There's no jostling for elbow room or feeling overwhelmed by tour groups. Cavtat offers a genuine Croatian holiday experience, complete with charming streets, beautiful promenades, and a fantastic culinary scene, all without the constant hustle and bustle of its larger neighbour.
Getting from Cavtat to Dubrovnik
Once settled in Cavtat, venturing into Dubrovnik is incredibly easy, with a few distinct options, each offering a different experience.
By Bus: The Economical Choice
The Line 10 bus offers a regular and economical way to travel from Cavtat to Dubrovnik. Buses depart from Cavtat's bus terminal on Šetalište Rat at least every hour, making it a frequent service. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes and costs less than £3 or $4.25, making it the cheapest option. Be aware that during peak times, the bus can be quite busy. In Dubrovnik, the bus stops for local services are conveniently located just outside the old city walls, while the main bus terminal for inter-city buses is a bit further out.
By Taxi: Direct and Scenic
A taxi from Cavtat to Dubrovnik provides a direct and comfortable ride, taking approximately 21 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is around £32 or $45. One of the perks of taking a taxi is the opportunity to ask your driver to make a brief stop at the D8 viewpoint. This spot offers truly stunning views of Dubrovnik's ancient city walls and port, providing a fantastic photo opportunity before you even arrive.
By Boat: The Unforgettable Journey
While slightly more expensive than the bus, making the journey from Cavtat to Dubrovnik by boat trip is an experience in itself and comes highly recommended. Small passenger boats, often referred to as water taxis, depart frequently from Cavtat's central promenade. These boats often make brief stops at smaller resorts along the way, adding to the scenic charm, before arriving directly into Dubrovnik's atmospheric Old Port. This offers a magical first glimpse of the city, truly setting the scene for your visit.
The boat trip takes a little longer than the bus or taxi, at around 45 minutes, but the views of the coastline and islands are unparalleled. Boats from Cavtat to Dubrovnik typically cost around £7 or $10 each way. Several companies operate this popular route, including Adriana Boat Tours, Vivado Dubrovnik, and Sea Line. It's advisable to check their respective websites or local kiosks for the most up-to-date schedules and prices, as these can vary with the season.
Comparative Table: Cavtat to Dubrovnik Transport
| Method | Approx. Duration | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Line 10) | 30 minutes | £3 / $4.25 | Most economical, frequent, can be busy, drops near Old City walls. |
| Taxi | 21 minutes | £32 / $45 | Direct, comfortable, door-to-door, potential scenic viewpoint stops. |
| Boat (Water Taxi) | 45 minutes | £7 / $10 | Scenic, arrives directly at Old Port, unique experience, avoids road traffic. |
Things to Do in Cavtat
Even on days when you prefer not to venture into Dubrovnik, Cavtat offers a wealth of activities and sights to enjoy:
- Watch the Sunset: The sunset in Cavtat is simply drop-dead gorgeous. The sun dips right in front of Cavtat’s harbour, framed beautifully by its two wooded peninsulas. For the best views, consider climbing a little way up the Kneza Domagoja steps.
- Yacht Spotting: Cavtat's harbour is a popular mooring spot for superyachts. Enjoy admiring these magnificent vessels and perhaps even imagine who might be on board.
- Relax at a Beach Bar: Cavtat boasts a short pebbly beach, Beach Žal, and several charming beach bars hidden along the edge of the pine forest. Many offer sunbathing platforms and fantastic views.
- Wander the Old Town: Explore Cavtat’s small but atmospheric old town. Its narrow, sloping streets are full of attractive houses. Don’t miss the Parish Church of St Nicholas, the scenic views from Cavtat’s cemetery, and the art museum at The House of Vlaho Bukovac.
Day Trips from Cavtat
Cavtat's strategic location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring more of Croatia and beyond:
- Lokrum Island: Easily visible from Dubrovnik, this uninhabited nature reserve features an old monastery, botanical garden, and a unique salt lake. You can reach it via an organised boat trip or by connecting from Dubrovnik.
- Montenegro (Kotor): Being so close to the border, the stunning walled town of Kotor in Montenegro is only about an hour and a half away. Organised coach tours often include Kotor, Budva, and Sveti Stefan.
- Krka National Park: While a longer trip (around 3.5 hours), this national park near Split offers magical waterfalls, lakes, and woods. Coach tours make it a manageable day out, though an overnight stay is recommended to fully appreciate its beauty.
- Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Another longer but highly rewarding day trip, Mostar is famous for its iconic 16th-century bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a powerful and historically rich destination.
Where to Stay in Cavtat
Cavtat offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets, from luxury hotels to charming apartments.
- Hotel Croatia (5-star): Perched on one of Cavtat's peninsulas, this stylish hotel offers two pools, a spa, and easy access to two beaches. Its five restaurants include Spinnaker, with amazing bay views.
- Hotel Albatros (4-star): Boasting one of the best locations right on Cavtat's main beach, this hotel features two restaurants, an outdoor pool, and activities for all ages. An all-inclusive option is available.
- Hotel Cavtat (3-star): Despite its three-star rating, Hotel Cavtat impresses with an amazing rooftop pool offering stunning views over the bay, perfect for a sunset cocktail.
Other notable hotels include the Hotel Epidaurus (3-star), Hotel Supetar (3-star), and the Castelletto Hotel (3-star). For those on a tighter budget or preferring more independence, numerous self-catering apartments and rooms are available throughout Cavtat, offering a warm welcome and a local experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is Cavtat from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)?
Cavtat is approximately 5.8 kilometres (about 3.6 miles) away from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV). This short distance makes for a very quick transfer.
How much does a taxi from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to Cavtat cost?
A taxi from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat typically costs between €11 and €14. The journey is very fast, usually taking only 6 to 10 minutes.
Is there a direct bus between Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and Cavtat?
Yes, there is a direct bus service departing from Dubrovnik Airport Bus Station that arrives in Cavtat. However, this service operates four times a day from Monday to Friday only, so it's essential to check the schedule if you plan to use it.
How much does a taxi from Cavtat to Dubrovnik cost?
A taxi from Cavtat to Dubrovnik generally costs around £32 or $45. The travel time is approximately 21 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
How much does a boat from Cavtat to Dubrovnik cost?
A one-way boat trip (water taxi) from Cavtat to Dubrovnik costs approximately £7 or $10 per person. Return fares are also available. The scenic journey takes about 45 minutes and drops you directly at Dubrovnik's Old Port.
What other ways are there to get around from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)?
While taxis are the most practical and recommended for direct transfers from Dubrovnik Airport to Cavtat due to the short distance and cost-effectiveness, you can also utilise the direct bus service on weekdays. For general travel around the wider Dubrovnik area, taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient, or you can consider car hire if you plan extensive exploration.
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