Pile Gate Tickets & Tours & Informataion January 2025

Pile Gate

Pile Gate is the grand main entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a striking structure that has welcomed visitors for centuries. Built in the 15th century and fortified in the 16th century, Pile Gate is a double-gated entrance featuring a stone bridge over a former moat and an inner archway with a wooden drawbridge. Above the gate stands a statue of St. Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik. This iconic landmark marks the starting point of Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, and is a bustling area where history, culture, and modern life converge.

The Basics

Pile Gate is the most popular entry point to the Old Town and serves as the meeting point for many guided tours. Nearby, you’ll find Onofrio’s Fountain, the starting point of Stradun, and access to the famous Dubrovnik City Walls. The gate remains open 24/7, and entrance to the Old Town is free. However, accessing the city walls from here requires a ticket.

Things to Know Before You Go

Pile Gate can get crowded, especially during the morning hours when large tour groups arrive.

Several attractions, such as Lovrijenac Fortress and Fort Bokar, are located near Pile Gate, making it a great starting point for exploration.

There are several benches and shaded areas around the gate where you can rest before or after your visit.

A tourist information center is located nearby, where you can pick up maps and get advice on tours and attractions.

How to Get There

Pile Gate is easily accessible by foot if you’re staying in or near the Old Town. If you’re coming from other parts of Dubrovnik, local buses (most routes) stop at the Pile bus station, just a short walk from the gate. Taxis and rideshares can also drop you off nearby.

When to Get There

Pile Gate can be visited at any time of day, but early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds and the midday heat. The gate is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a lovely spot for an evening walk or photos. Visiting in the evening also offers a quieter experience, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere.

Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Pile Gate is a convenient starting point for many day trips and activities. From here, you can embark on a city walls tour, walk down Stradun to explore the heart of the Old Town, or visit Fort Lovrijenac, a short walk away. Many local agencies offering boat tours to Lokrum Island and the Elaphite Islands have offices near the gate. For those interested in history, a guided walking tour that starts at Pile Gate provides insight into the city’s fascinating past and architectural wonders.