Need a doctor, hospital or pharmacy while visiting Dubrovnik? This guide brings together the key medical services in one place, so you can quickly find emergency numbers, the main hospital, tourist medical clinic, private clinics and on-call pharmacies if you feel unwell during your stay.
Healthcare in Croatia is generally good and straightforward to access. In urgent situations you can call the national emergency numbers, go directly to the emergency room at Dubrovnik General Hospital, or contact a private clinic for faster non-emergency care. Pharmacies (ljekarne) are widely available across the city, with at least one on-call pharmacy outside normal working hours.
Emergency numbers and urgent care in Dubrovnik
Short answer: In a serious or life-threatening situation in Dubrovnik, call 112 or 194 immediately and, if it is safe, go to the emergency department at Dubrovnik General Hospital, which operates 24 hours a day.
If you or someone with you has a serious or life-threatening problem (chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, loss of consciousness, serious injury), call the emergency services immediately.
- 112 - European emergency number (ambulance, police, fire, Croatian Mountain Rescue Service, )
- 194 - direct number for medical emergencies in Croatia
- 193 - fire brigade
- 192 - police
- 195 - maritime search and rescue
The main 24/7 emergency room in Dubrovnik is located at Dubrovnik General Hospital in the Medarevo area. You can arrive by ambulance after calling 112 or 194, or go directly to the hospital if it is safe to do so.
In case of an emergency, save these important and useful phone numbers before you travel.
If you are an EU or UK visitor and hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), you can usually access public healthcare in Croatia at reduced cost, or in some cases free of charge. You may be asked to show your passport or another identity document. Travelers from other countries should use their travel insurance and keep policy details and assistance numbers with them.
First-hand tips
When I had guests whose wife experienced sudden health problems, I called the ambulance and they arrived very quickly. The medical staff were helpful and the treatment itself was professional. However, be prepared for the fact that Dubrovnik’s general hospital operates in an older building that is clearly overdue for renovation and better maintenance. While urgent cases are handled promptly, the outdated facilities can affect comfort and waiting times for non-critical situations.
Hospitals and medical clinics in Dubrovnik
Short answer: For serious or urgent problems in Dubrovnik, you must use Dubrovnik General Hospital, while the Public Health Centre, Tourist Medical Clinic and private clinics are suitable for minor issues, check-ups and faster non-emergency care.
Dubrovnik General Hospital (Opća bolnica Dubrovnik)
Dubrovnik’s main public hospital is located in the Medarevo area, about 3 km from the Old Town. It provides 24/7 emergency care, inpatient services and specialist departments. For serious or urgent medical problems, this is the primary place to go.
- Emergency department: open 24/7
- Address: Dr. Roka Mišetića 2, Dubrovnik
- Ambulance arrival: via 112 or 194
The hospital can experience seasonal congestion, especially in summer, so travelers with non-urgent conditions often choose private clinics for quicker service.
Dubrovnik Public Health Centre (Dom zdravlja Dubrovnik)
The Public Health Centre operates local GP services, community healthcare and some specialist outpatient clinics. It is suitable for minor medical issues, prescriptions and basic examinations. Opening hours vary by department.
Tourist Medical Clinic (Luka Gruž)
Located near the cruise port and main bus station in Gruž, the Tourist Medical Clinic offers general practice services for visitors, treatment for common travel-related conditions and medical certificates if required. It is a convenient first-stop option if you need non-emergency medical attention while travelling.
- Suitable for: minor injuries, fever, infections, stomach issues, prescription refills
- Typical opening hours extend into the evening during the main travel season
Private clinics in Dubrovnik
Several private medical centers provide fast appointments, diagnostics and outpatient treatment. These clinics are often the quickest way to see a doctor, especially in summer when public services are busy.
Marin Med Clinic
A well-equipped private clinic offering general medicine, diagnostics, cardiology, ultrasound, laboratory testing and minor emergency care. Located near Dubrovnik General Hospital.
Poliklinika Glavić
Known for physical medicine, rehabilitation and neurology. Also offers diagnostics and specialist consultations. Suitable for travelers needing physiotherapy, injury follow-up or neurological assessment.
Other private practices
Additional private GPs, dental clinics, dermatologists and physiotherapists operate across the wider Dubrovnik area. Most accept direct payment, with receipts provided for travel-insurance claims.
For non-urgent issues, private clinics generally offer the fastest service. For urgent or serious conditions, always contact 112 or go to Dubrovnik General Hospital.
First-hand tips
From my own experience, private clinics in Dubrovnik offer very good service and I’ve always been pleased with the level of care. For tourists, it’s worth checking in advance whether your travel or health insurance covers treatment in private clinics, as this can make the visit both faster, more convenient and less expensive.
Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will allow you to access public healthcare provided in Croatia at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. You may be asked to present your passport or other travel documents as proof of identity. If you need immediate assistance from the Embassy for a life or death emergency involving a U.S. citizen after hours, please call +385 1 661 2300.
Dubrovnik Super Saver:
Cable Car Ride and Old Town Walking Tour plus City Walls
Discover the charm and history of Dubrovnik on this unforgettable journey. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik Old Town's narrow and winding streets, and admire the mesmerising views from the 16th-century city walls. Take your experience to new heights with a cable car ride to Mt. Srđ for panoramic views. Book your tour now with a knowledgeable expert.
Dubrovnik General Hospital
Address: Roka Mišetica bb
tel: +385 20 431 777, fax: +385 20 426 149,
all surgeries work from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m, 24 hour duty service
Dubrovnik Medical Centre
Address: Dr. A.Starčevića
Telephone: +385 20 411 212, +385 20 641676
Tourist Medical Clinic
Address: Androvićeva bb, Dubrovnik
Tel: +38520641676
Working hours: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 08:00 - 15.30, Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:00-19.30, Saturdays: the first and third Saturday of every month 08:00 -12.00
Clinics in Dubrovnik
Polyclinic Marin Med
Ul. dr. Ante Starčevića 45
tel: +385 20 400 500,
weekdays 8.00-20.00, Sat 8.00-13.00
Polyclinic Glavić
Ćira Carića 3
tel: +385 20 435 565, 435 575, mob: +385 98 244 674
weekdays 8-13 h and 17-19 h
Bobanović Veterinary Clinic
Tel: +385 20 357345
Address: Kneza Domagoja 4
Working hours: Monday - Friday 08:30-20.00 Saturdays: 08.00- 12.00
Pharmacies in Dubrovnik
Short answer: For minor health problems in Dubrovnik, go to a pharmacy (ljekarna) first, pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter medicines and, with a valid prescription, dispense most regular medication, with at least one on-call pharmacy available outside normal hours.
Pharmacies (ljekarne) are the easiest place to get advice for minor health problems while in Dubrovnik. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter medicines for pain relief, colds, allergies, stomach issues and minor injuries. For prescription medication, you will need a valid prescription from a Croatian doctor or a recognized EU/UK prescription.
Most pharmacies in Dubrovnik are open on weekdays and Saturday mornings. At least one pharmacy is designated as the on-call (dežurna ljekarna) pharmacy outside normal hours, including nights, Sundays and holidays.
Where to find pharmacies
You will find pharmacies in all main areas of Dubrovnik, including:
- Old Town
- Ploče
- Lapad and Babin Kuk
- Gruž (near the port and bus station)
Each district typically has more than one pharmacy, and most are easy to spot from the green cross sign.
On-call (dežurna) pharmacy in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik always has one pharmacy operating after hours. The duty pharmacy changes according to an official rota, which is updated regularly by local health authorities.
Typical services available at the on-call pharmacy include:
- Emergency prescription fulfilment
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Basic first-aid supplies
How to check which pharmacy is currently on call
The schedule for the current on-call pharmacy is published locally and displayed at most pharmacy entrances. If you are unsure which pharmacy is on duty, you can ask any pharmacist during regular hours or check with your accommodation host, who will usually have up-to-date information.
For urgent needs outside working hours, you can also call 112 for guidance if you cannot locate the on-call pharmacy.
Remember: for minor complaints, pharmacists are a useful first point of contact. For urgent or serious symptoms, call 112 or visit the emergency room at Dubrovnik General Hospital.
During nights, Sundays, and holidays, a 24-hour emergency pharmacy is available. For information or assistance, please refer to the provided link for on-call pharmacies. Kod Zvonika pharmacy or Gruž pharmacy are those that cover night shifts, weekends and holidays.
On call pharmacies December 2025. On-call pharmacy information is updated monthly, check the latest schedule before your trip.
First-hand tips
In my experience, visitors to Dubrovnik often struggle the most with figuring out which pharmacy is on duty at night, on weekends, or during holidays. The quickest way to get the correct information is usually to ask your host or hotel reception, as they always know or can easily find out which pharmacy is currently on call.
Pharmacy Gruž
Gruška obala
Tel: +385 20 418 990
Working hours: 08.00 - 20.00
Pharmacy Lapad
M.Vodopića 30
Tel: +385436778
Working hours: 08.00 - 20.00
Pharmacy kod Zvonika
Old Town Dubrovnik
Tel: +385 20 428 656
Working hours: 08.00 - 20.00
Pharmacy Domus Christi
Stradun, Old Town
Tel: +385 20 323 882
Working hours: 08.00 - 20.00, Sundays closed
Pharmacy kod Male Braće
Franciscan Monastery
Tel: +385 20 321 411
Working hours: Monday to Friday 07:00 - 19:30, Saturdays 07:30 - 15:00, Sundays closed
Frequently asked questions about healthcare in Dubrovnik
What should I do in a medical emergency in Dubrovnik?
If someone has a serious or life-threatening problem, call 112 or 194 immediately. You can also go directly to the emergency department at Dubrovnik General Hospital, which operates 24/7.
Where is the main hospital in Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik General Hospital (Opća bolnica Dubrovnik) is located in the Medarevo area, about 3 km from the Old Town. It provides emergency care, inpatient services and specialist departments.
Is English spoken by doctors and pharmacists?
Yes. Most healthcare staff in Dubrovnik, especially in emergency services, private clinics and pharmacies, speak good English and are used to assisting international visitors.
Can I use my EHIC or GHIC card in Croatia?
EU and UK visitors can usually use their EHIC or GHIC for medically necessary treatment through the public healthcare system. You may still need to pay certain fees. Always carry your passport or identity document.
Are private clinics in Dubrovnik good for non-urgent issues?
Yes. Private clinics usually offer fast appointments and shorter waiting times. They are suitable for minor injuries, infections, diagnostics, specialist consultations and general medical advice.
How do I get a prescription in Dubrovnik?
You need a prescription from a Croatian doctor or a recognised EU/UK prescription. Private clinics and the Tourist Medical Clinic can issue prescriptions after a consultation.
Where can I buy medicines in Dubrovnik?
Medicines for common problems such as pain, fever, allergies or stomach issues are available at pharmacies (ljekarne). For stronger medication, a valid prescription is required.
How do I find the on-call pharmacy?
The on-call (dežurna) pharmacy rotates. Information is displayed at pharmacy entrances and is known by most local accommodation hosts. If you cannot find the duty pharmacy, call 112 for assistance.
What if I get sick outside normal pharmacy hours?
You can use the designated on-call pharmacy, which operates overnight, on Sundays and on public holidays. For urgent symptoms, contact 112 or visit the emergency room.
Do I need travel insurance for Croatia?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. While public healthcare is accessible, private clinics and certain treatments require upfront payment. Insurance helps cover unexpected medical costs.
What to do in Dubrovnik
The best things to do in Dubrovnik
Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik
Activities in Dubrovnik
Shopping in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Useful Travel Information
Money and Currency in Croatia
Post offices, banks and ATMs in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik hospitals, clinics and pharmacies
Dictionary Croatian Words for Tourists
Important and useful phone numbers
- Details
- Written by: Orsat Munitic