+385 99 44 22 914

What To Do If You Accidentally Drive Into Dubrovnik’s Restricted Traffic Zone

We have previously written about driving and parking in Dubrovnik and how to avoid entering the city’s restricted traffic zone. But what if, despite your best efforts, you take a wrong turn and suddenly find yourself inside the Restricted Traffic Zone (zona posebnog režima prometa)?

Don’t panic — it happens more often than you think. In this article, we explain exactly what steps to take, why the ZCR exists, and how respecting these rules benefits both visitors and locals.

Understanding Dubrovnik’s Restricted Traffic Zone

The Restricted Traffic Zone covers the areas immediately surrounding Dubrovnik’s Old Town, including main access points such as Pile Gate, Ploče Gate, and Iza Grada Street. Entry is strictly limited to residents, delivery vehicles, taxis, and other authorized vehicles.

For all others, driving into this area is prohibited, and cameras automatically record every license plate.

What To Do If You Entered the Zone by Mistake

If you have mistakenly driven into the ZCR, act quickly:

  • Send an email immediately to: zona@dubrovnik.hr

  • Introduce yourself as a tourist.

  • Provide the date and time of the incident.

  • Include your license plate number.

  • Briefly explain the situation (e.g., GPS error, searching for parking).

The City of Dubrovnik is usually understanding, especially if you contact them promptly and politely. In many cases, procedures can be canceled or redirected.

Failing to act may result in a fine being sent to your home address or, in the case of rental cars, through your agency with additional administrative fees.

Why the restricted zone matters

The restricted zone is essential to keeping Dubrovnik liveable and enjoyable:

  • Reducing congestion: The Old Town is often crowded, with frequent queues and traffic jams. Restricting car access reduces delays and ensures smoother flow for residents, taxis, and emergency services.

  • Protecting heritage: The narrow medieval streets of Dubrovnik were never designed for modern traffic. Limiting vehicles helps protect infrastructure, reduce noise, and lower pollution.

  • Enhancing visitor experience: A car-free environment allows tourists to experience the Old Town’s beauty and atmosphere more authentically, without the stress of traffic.

 

How to Avoid the Zone in the Future

  • Double-check your route. Do not rely solely on GPS. Switch to pedestrian mode on Google Maps to see if your route crosses the Old Town.

  • Use designated public parking. Car parks such as Ilijina Glavica or Gruz port are convenient and well-marked.

  • Book a private transfer. With A Transfers Croatia, you can enjoy a hassle-free ride directly to your accommodation without the risk of entering restricted areas.

 

Mistakenly entering Dubrovnik’s restricted traffic zone is not uncommon — but with quick action, it does not need to become a problem. Contact the city services, explain the situation, and you will likely avoid penalties.

More importantly, remember that the ZCR plays a vital role in reducing congestion, protecting Dubrovnik’s heritage, and ensuring that visitors and locals alike can enjoy the Old Town to the fullest.

For stress-free travel, consider choosing A Transfers Croatia private transfers — reliable, professional, and fully compliant with city regulations.

✨ A Transfers Croatia Team