Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is home to two incredible cities: Split and Dubrovnik. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites, brimming with history and stunning scenery. Split boasts Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s sprawling retirement complex right in the heart of the city. Dubrovnik, further south, is famous for its imposing City Walls, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
If you’re planning a trip between these two gems, you’re in luck! There are several ways to travel from Split to Dubrovnik: ferry, bus, plane, car, private transfer, and even a guided tour. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget, time constraints, and travel style.
Planning ahead is crucial, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Booking your transportation in advance can save you money and guarantee your spot, as popular routes and services often fill up quickly.
This guide will walk you through all the available transportation options for traveling from Split to Dubrovnik, including detailed driving routes and frequently asked questions to help you make the best choice for your trip.
Split and Dubrovnik: A Quick Overview
Both Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia, are beautiful coastal cities with a lot to offer visitors. Here’s a little background on each.
Split: Vibrant and Bustling
Split is known for Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Riva promenade, a lively waterfront area. The city is a major transportation hub, making it easy to get to other parts of Croatia and nearby islands. Split offers a vibrant mix of ancient history and modern culture, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Split’s airport (SPU) is about 25 kilometers from the Old Town, a drive of roughly 30 minutes by car or bus.
Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is famous for its stunning city walls and historic Old Town, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, most notably Game of Thrones, which brought a surge of tourism to the city.
Dubrovnik’s airport (DBV) is about 21 kilometers from the Old Town, a drive of approximately 25 minutes by car or bus.
Transportation Options: A Detailed Comparison
Okay, so you’re trying to get from Split to Dubrovnik. Lucky you! It’s a beautiful trip, no matter how you choose to make it. Here’s a breakdown of the different ways you can travel, weighing the pros and cons of each:
Ferry: Scenic but Time-Consuming
Imagine gliding across the Adriatic, island hopping along the way. That’s the ferry experience! Expect the trip to take around 4.5 to 6 hours and cost in the neighborhood of €45 to €50. The ferry stops at other islands on the way, adding to your overall time.
Several ferry companies make the journey, including:
- Jadrolinija: Around 6 hours, about €45.
- Krilo: About 5.5 hours, about €50.
- TP Line: Roughly 5 hours and 20 minutes, about €48.
Pros: Stunning views, the chance to hop off and explore other islands.
Cons: It’s a longer trip, and if you’re prone to seasickness, be prepared.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Ferries can fill up!
Bus: Budget-Friendly but Less Flexible
For the budget-conscious traveler, the bus is your best bet. The ride typically takes around 4.5 hours and will set you back about €15 to €20. It’s definitely the most affordable option, but be prepared for a less luxurious experience.
Keep in mind that buses can be delayed, and you’ll likely have to pay a small fee (around €2-3) for your luggage.
Pros: Super affordable, with frequent departures.
Cons: Less comfortable than other options, potential for delays, those pesky luggage fees.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets online or at the bus station ahead of time to secure your spot.
Plane: Fastest but Most Expensive
Want to get there in a flash? A plane is your answer. The total travel time, including getting to and from the airport, is about 3 hours (the flight itself is only about 45 minutes). However, be prepared to shell out some serious cash – we’re talking €100+.
And remember, you’ll need to factor in travel time to and from the airports:
- Split Airport (SPU) to Old Town: 25 kilometers, about 30 minutes by car or bus.
- Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) to Old Town: 21 kilometers, about 25 minutes by car or bus.
Pros: The absolute fastest way to travel.
Cons: The most expensive option, potential for flight delays, and you have to deal with airport transfers.
Important Note: Direct flights are limited, typically only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February to October.
Car: Freedom and Flexibility, but Parking Challenges
If you crave the open road and the freedom to explore at your own pace, driving is a great choice. The drive itself is around 3 hours, and you can expect to pay around €40 per day for the car rental, plus tolls.
The distance between Split and Dubrovnik is approximately 230 kilometers.
The downside? Parking in Split and Dubrovnik’s Old Towns can be a nightmare! Be prepared to circle the block and potentially pay a hefty fee.
Pros: Ultimate flexibility, scenic route options, and the ability to stop wherever you want along the way.
Cons: Parking headaches, potential for traffic, and those pesky tolls (approximately €6.70 one-way for a standard car as of January 2023).
Private Transfer: Convenience at a Premium
For a hassle-free, door-to-door experience, a private transfer is the way to go. The journey takes around 3 hours, but be prepared to pay a premium – upwards of €300.
The beauty of a private transfer is the convenience and the possibility of customizing your stops along the way.
Pros: Utter convenience, door-to-door service, and the option to tailor your itinerary.
Cons: The most expensive option, by far.
Guided Tour: Informative and Stress-Free
If you want to sit back, relax, and learn about the history and culture of the region, a guided tour might be perfect for you. The duration and cost vary depending on the tour operator.
Pros: You’ll gain valuable historical insights and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
Cons: Can be time-consuming, and you’ll have less flexibility in your itinerary.
Driving from Split to Dubrovnik: Routes, Stops, and Tips
If you’re thinking of driving from Split to Dubrovnik, you’ve got a few choices when it comes to routes. You can take the faster highway or the more scenic coastal route. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
Route Options: Coastal vs. Highway
You can take the D8 coastal road (also known as the E65) or the A1 Motorway.
Coastal Road D8 (E65)
The coastal road is the scenic route, and it’ll take you anywhere from four to six hours to make the drive. Along the way, you’ll see the beautiful Dalmatian Coast. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.
A1 Motorway
The A1 Motorway is the faster route, and it’ll get you there in about three hours. Keep in mind that this route requires you to pay tolls. A one-way trip will cost you about €6.70.
The Peljesac Bridge
The Peljesac Bridge makes it possible to bypass crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Neum Corridor.
Recommended Stops Along the Way
Whether you take the coastal route or the highway, there are plenty of great places to stop and stretch your legs. Here are a few recommendations.
- Omis: Known for its adventure activities and historical significance.
- Makarska Riviera: Famous for its beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.
- Biokovo Skywalk: For panoramic views from 1,228 meters above sea level.
- Red and Blue Lakes: Unique karst formations.
- Ston: Famous for its walls and oysters. The Ston Walls are 5.5 km long, making them the second-longest in the world after the Great Wall of China.
- Trsteno Arboretum: A filming location for Game of Thrones.
Practical Tips for Driving
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your road trip.
- Renting a car: Book in advance, and compare prices. Daily rates can be as low as €20.
- Navigation: Use Google Maps or Airalo to help you find your way.
- Border crossing (if applicable): Check visa requirements if you plan to cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Currency: Croatia uses the Euro.
- Travel insurance: Consider purchasing international travel insurance for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get from Split to Dubrovnik?
That depends on your priorities! Driving offers flexibility to explore coastal towns, but involves border crossings and potential traffic. Ferries are scenic and relaxing, but take longer and can be affected by weather. Buses are generally the cheapest option, but less comfortable and slower than driving. Consider your budget, time constraints, and preference for scenery versus speed when choosing your mode of transport.
How long is the ferry ride from Split to Dubrovnik?
Expect the ferry ride to take roughly 4.5 to 6 hours. The exact duration depends on the specific ferry company you choose and the route the ferry takes. Some routes may include stops at other islands along the way, which will add to the overall travel time.
Is there a direct train from Split to Dubrovnik?
Unfortunately, no. There isn’t a direct train line connecting Split and Dubrovnik. You’ll need to consider other options like driving, taking a bus, or hopping on a ferry.
Can you drive from Split to Dubrovnik?
Absolutely! Driving is a perfectly viable and popular option. There are multiple routes you can take, allowing you to customize your journey and explore different parts of the Croatian coastline.
Do you need a passport from Split to Dubrovnik?
Since Croatia joined the Schengen Area, you generally don’t need a passport for travel within Croatia. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some form of identification, and having your passport on hand is never a bad idea just in case!
Do you cross the border from Split to Dubrovnik?
Not anymore! Thanks to the Pelješac Bridge, which opened in 2022, you can now drive directly from Split to Dubrovnik without crossing any borders. This has made the journey significantly easier and faster!
Is it worth driving from Split to Dubrovnik?
If you enjoy scenic drives and want the freedom to explore the Croatian coast at your own pace, then yes, it’s definitely worth it! The coastal roads offer stunning views, and you can stop at charming towns and villages along the way. Just be prepared for some winding roads and potential traffic during peak season.
Key Takeaways
From rental cars to buses, ferries, and private transfers, there are many ways to get from Split to Dubrovnik. Which one is right for you depends on your budget, how much time you have, and what you want to see along the way.
If you’re looking for the most affordable option, the bus is probably your best bet. If time is of the essence, consider a private transfer or even a flight. For incredible views and a chance to see the islands, the ferry is a great choice, but it only runs in the warmer months.
Think about what’s most important to you, weigh the pros and cons of each option, and choose the mode of transportation that best fits your needs. Whichever you choose, remember to book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the busy summer months.
No matter how you get there, have a safe trip and an amazing time exploring the beautiful Dalmatian Coast!