Pile Gate: Dubrovnik's Grand Entrance
Enter Dubrovnik's Old Town through the historic Pile Gate, a majestic entrance and a UNESCO World Heritage Site landmark.
Pile Gate serves as the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1537, it once featured a wooden drawbridge raised nightly to protect the city. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore the historic streets and landmarks within.
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
- Start your exploration of Dubrovnik's Old Town early in the morning to avoid 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.
- Notice the plaque commemorating the damage to the city during the Homeland War in the early 1990s.
- Walk along Stradun, the main promenade, which begins just inside Pile Gate, to experience the heart of Dubrovnik.
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Getting There
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Walking
From most points within Dubrovnik's Old Town, Pile Gate is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs directing you towards the western entrance of the city. As you approach the gate, you'll cross a stone bridge that replaced the original drawbridge. There is no fee to enter through Pile Gate.
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Public Transport
Many of Dubrovnik's public buses stop near Pile Gate, making it a convenient entry point to the Old Town. Buses 1A, 3A, 8, 10, and 17 are among those that service the area. From the main bus station in Gruž, take bus lines 1A, 1B, or 3 to Pile Gate. A one-way ticket purchased at a kiosk costs €1.73, while a ticket purchased from the driver costs €2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Dubrovnik. A taxi from the airport to Pile Gate typically costs between €30 and €40. Taxi stands are located near Pile Gate. Be sure to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Parking
Parking near Pile Gate is limited and can be expensive. The closest parking options include the Hotel Hilton garage and street parking just outside the city walls, but these tend to be pricey. The Hotel Hilton garage can cost €30 for 1-4 hours. A more affordable option is the multi-story garage at Ilijina Glavica, where parking costs €3 per hour or €30 per day. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk downhill to the Old Town. Be aware that from June 2025, access to the 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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