Dubrovnik’s Old Town area gets extremely busy during peak travel months, so the City of Dubrovnik introduced a Special Traffic Regulation Zone to keep the streets around the historic centre moving. The goal is simple: less gridlock, less noise and exhaust, and a better experience for residents and visitors, especially in the Old Town surroundings.
The Dubrovnik Special Traffic Regulation Zone does not restrict scooters and motorcycles, meaning they can pass through the regulated area without needing the same entry permits or pre-booked parking authorizations required for cars. In practice, this gives scooter and motorbike riders a huge advantage and easier access toward the Old Town, simpler parking options closer to the historic centre.
This system first launched in June 2025 and is typically used seasonally, when traffic pressure is highest.
Is the zone active all year?
No. The Special Traffic Regulation Zone does not run year-round.
It’s switched on only during defined seasonal periods (usually covering the main tourist season). When it’s not active, vehicles can move through the area under normal traffic rules, without the extra access requirements.
Vehicle access to the Zone is limited and allowed only under certain conditions from March 1 to November 30, and may also be restricted during special events or times of unusually heavy traffic.
Which parts of Dubrovnik are inside the regulated area?
The regulated zone covers the wider approach area around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, including locations such as:
- Ilijina Glavica
- Zagrebačka Street
- Viktorija area
- Pile
- Boninovo
When the zone is active, entry is controlled, you can’t just drive through freely.
Source: Dubrovnik Tourist Board
How do you know if entry is allowed?
Access points are marked and managed using:
- Road signage
- Traffic lights
- Digital info displays
These indicators show whether vehicles are permitted to enter the controlled area.
Who can enter when the zone is active?
During active periods, only vehicles with an approved right of entry may enter.
Typical allowed categories include:
- Residents with a valid Privileged Parking Card
- Vehicles with an official city permit
- Vehicles with pre-booked and paid parking inside the zone
- Certain commercial/service vehicles with specific authorization
- Scooters and motorcycles
In general, approved vehicles must be registered in advance through the official city permit process.
Official permit system: https://propusnice.dubrovnik.hr/
Scooters and motorcycles: the big advantage
Compared with private cars and most rental cars, scooters and motorcycles are typically treated more flexibly in this system.
In practice, this often means:
- Pass-through access without the same permit restrictions as cars
- Easier parking options closer to the Old Town
- In some designated spots, free scooter parking
That’s a big reason scooters are one of the most practical ways to get around Dubrovnik in peak season: you avoid the stress of access rules, tight parking, and slow traffic.
Example: You can often park near the Old Town (e.g., Pile Gate and Buža area) and walk to the city walls in minutes. And the best part? Parking for scooters and motorcycles is free!
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What happens if you enter without authorization?
Driving into the Special Traffic Regulation Zone without a valid permit or parking authorization can result in a fine.
Previously published penalty levels have included:
- €260 – private individuals
- €660 – sole traders / self-employed persons
- €1,320 – legal entities (companies)
- +€260 – additional penalty for the responsible person within a company
Fine amounts are set by city regulations and may be updated, so treat unauthorized entry as a serious risk.
Important note for rental cars
If a rental vehicle is fined, the charge is commonly handled by the rental company and passed on to the renter (often along with an administrative fee).
Why many visitors choose a scooter in Dubrovnik
If you want the most stress-free way to reach the Old Town area during the busy season, scooters are hard to beat. Key benefits:
- Parking closer to Old Town (often simpler than cars)
- Fewer access headaches vs. cars under the regulation zone
- Easy navigation through congested streets
- Budget-friendly compared with taxis or car parking fees
Why Choose Brabel Scooters?
- Park near Old Town and spend more time exploring, less time circling
- Avoid car restrictions – scooters generally have more freedom of movement
- Convenient and flexible in Dubrovnik’s tight streets
- Affordable compared with taxis and car parking costs
Rent a scooter or motorcycle with Brabel Rental Services and explore Dubrovnik with maximum freedom, without planning your day around traffic restrictions.
