A visit to Croatia is not complete without spending some time in both Split and Dubrovnik. But what's the best way to get between Croatia's two most popular cities?
How to get from Split to Dubrovnik - 2023
When visiting Croatia, it’s definitely a great idea to tour around a little. Split and Dubrovnik are two of the must-see destinations. Public transport is easy to use and cheap enough, so why not visit a few places in one day? Various different transportation options make it easy to get from Split to Dubrovnik, and you can even choose to fly from Dubrovnik Airport back to your home country, where you can travel to a multitude of destinations.
Split, Croatia offers so many activities! Make sure to allow yourself plenty of time to explore the main attractions, including Diocletian’s Palace and breathtaking Cathedral of Saint Domnius. Outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss Marjan for a great photo op, and don't forget Hvar is nearby as well. When you've done all there is in Split and are looking to move on, Dubrovnik is an ideal destination.
There are several options for transportation from Split to Dubrovnik, and it's really up to you to choose the one that suits your needs best. The Split to Dubrovnik drive is a very scenic one, and you will also need to pass over the border to Bosnia & Herzegovina. It's not a big deal, and you only cross the border for a few short distances.
Let's look at each option one by one, so you can figure out the best way to get from Split to Dubrovnik
Split to Dubrovnik Bus
Travelling by bus between Split and Dubrovnik is the most cost-efficient way to make the journey. There are a variety of companies that offer services along this route, with each trip taking no more than 4 hours and costing around 14 Euros (or 110 Kuna). If budget is key for you, then this route is ideal. Check the timetable online for exact departure times.
Split to Dubrovnik Ferry
You can travel between the two cities via ferry, usually a fast catamaran, which will give you a very scenic journey, and a chance to check out the coastline from a different viewpoint too. Boats from Split to Dubrovnik are definitely for photography enthusiasts. The downside of the Split to Dubrovnik ferry is that there is only one ferry per day, and you will probably have to get up early to catch it. The journey takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes, and is operated by Kapetan Luka. Prices vary, so check online prior to your trip. For your return journey, simply search for catamaran Dubrovnik to Split options.
Split to Dubrovnik Flight
If you’re short on time, you can fly. Do remember, this option is probably going to cost you the most, and you should check online for flight deals if you want to save a little cash. The journey takes around 45 minutes direct, although you will find better deals if you go indirect and stop over in Zagreb. Why not make your journey a three destination deal, and have a night in the capital?
Drive from Split to Dubrovnik
The most freedom-inducing way to travel between Split to Dubrovnik, and indeed back from Dubrovnik to Split, is to drive yourself. You can hire a car in either destination and drop it off in the other city, if you choose a large brand car hire company. Prices will depend totally upon the vehicle you choose, so shop around for the best deal. Is it safe to drive in Croatia? Yes!
The journey shouldn’t take you longer than just over three hours, unless you stop off a few times along the way. You will need to pass through tolls, so have some change with you, and you will also need t cross over the border to Bosnia & Herzegovina, no matter which route you take. This will mean you heading over the Neum Corridor, which is a 9km stretch of road which runs between the two countries. There shouldn’t be any visa/passport/border issues here, as there is an agreement in place to allow free passage for drivers who aren’t stopping, and are literally continuing their journey down to the rest of Croatia, or back up if you’re going back the other way. If you are stopped, it should only be a case of showing your passport (and any other travel documentation that pertains to your situation), so make sure you keep it on you at all times.
The journey is a scenic one, especially if you take the D8 coastal road, before moving onto the faster E65 road. The coastal road is a slower option, and during the summer months there is likely to be more traffic, but it is a worthwhile experience, for sure. Driving from Dubrovnik to Split is simply the same information, but in reverse.
Split to Dubrovnik Private Transfer
If you prefer to have someone take care of everything and drive you from Split to Dubrovnik then a private transfer from Dubrovnik to Split is what you’re after. Nothing beats hassle free travel in Croatia. A Dubrovnik to Split transfer is a superb way to travel and best of all, it takes away the stress of worrying about border crossings, insurances, and navigating foreign roads. A Split to Dubrovnik private transfer will pick up from your accommodation, no need to hunt down taxi’s or go hiking to the split bus station, and then you just sit back and enjoy the Split to Dubrovnik drive. You also have the freedom to make any stops you’d like along the way! For a free quote contact Octopus Transfers Croatia.
Things to do in Dubrovnik
Once in Dubrovnik, you won’t be short of things to see and do. What to see in Dubrovnik? This is one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Croatia, and it is a wonderful spot to visit during the summer months in particular. The beaches are sublime, and there is plentiful history to check out, including the Walls of Dubrovnik and Lovijenac, the old fortress with stunning views. Be sure to head to Dubrovnik Cathedral too. If you still feel the need to travel, you can head back from Dubrovnik to Hvar with ease to.
Travelling between the two destinations is certainly easy to do, and it is a painless experience. For the sake of just a few hours’ travelling, you’ll get to see so much more of Croatia. Will you start in Split or Dubrovnik? They’re both fantastic, it’s down to personal choice!
