Pile Gate: Dubrovnik's Grand Entrance
Step through history at Dubrovnik's Pile Gate, the main entrance to the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Pile Gate, constructed in 1537, serves as the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This imposing gate, featuring a drawbridge and Renaissance arch, welcomes visitors into a world of medieval charm and historical significance.
A brief summary to Pile Gate
- Dubrovačke Gradske Zidine, Dubrovnik, Grad, HR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially during peak season.
- Take a moment to appreciate the statue of St. Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, located above the inner gate.
- Look down as you cross the bridge to see the area that was once a deep-water ditch surrounding the city.
- Note the plaque commemorating the damage sustained during the Homeland War in the early 1990s.
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Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere within Dubrovnik's Old Town, Pile Gate is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main street, Stradun, westwards; it naturally leads directly to Pile Gate. The walk is mostly flat and takes approximately 5-10 minutes from the Old Town's center.
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Public Transport
Many local buses stop near Pile Gate, making it a convenient entry point to the Old Town. Buses 1A, 1B, and 3 connect Gruž Port to Pile Gate. From the main bus station in Gruž, a single bus ticket costs €2.50 if purchased from the driver or €1.73 if bought in advance at a kiosk. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Dubrovnik. A taxi ride from Gruž Port to Pile Gate typically costs between €7.90 and €15.20, depending on the service and vehicle type. Be aware that prices can be higher during peak season.
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Parking
If arriving by car, be aware that parking near Pile Gate is limited and expensive. The closest parking is at the Pile Gate parking lot, but it costs €10 per hour. A more affordable option is the multi-story garage at Ilijina Glavica, which costs €3 per hour or €30 per day, and is a 10-15 minute walk to the Old Town. Alternatively, the Gruž Port Parking Lot is another option with lower rates and a bus connection to Pile Gate. Be aware that from June 2025, the road accessing Dubrovnik's Old Town will be restricted to registered vehicles only.
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More about Dubrovnik
Discover the medieval charm and coastal beauty of Dubrovnik, Croatia's historical gem on the Adriatic Sea, known for its iconic city walls and UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
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