Overview Compare Bus Ferry To Stay
Note: During the winter season in Croatia, ferry services run less regularly. You can visit the booking websites discussed in this article to check the updated availability.
How to get from Dubrovnik to Makarska
Makarska is a beach resort town in southern Croatia, on the Adriatic coast. It is the centre of Makarska Riviera, a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural wonders – turquoise waters, lush hills, and panoramic coasts.
In summer, it is bustling with sun-loving vacationers, and you’ll find it fully alive from sun-up to sundown. Outside the tourist season, this small city becomes so quiet, making it a perfect time to enjoy its colourful cultural heritage and Baroque architecture.
2 ways to get from Dubrovnik to Makarska
There are 2 ways you can travel the 150 km distance from Dubrovnik to Makarska. You can take a 3-hour bus with fares from 117 KN (€15.50) or a 3-hour ferry with rates from 305 KN (€40.50).
The bus is the better option for those on a budget. Ticket prices start from 117 KN (€15.50), less than half compared to the ferry ride. Another advantage is that most buses operate between Dubrovnik and Makarska all year round.
Ferries, on the other hand, are only available during the high season (June to September). They are more expensive at 305 KN (€40.50), but they also offer a very scenic journey from Dubrovnik to Makarska.
Itinerary from Dubrovnik to Makarska
Dubrovnik to Makarska by Bus
The cheapest option to travel from Dubrovnik to Makarska is by bus.
There are 4 bus operators plying this route and most of the buses are available all year round.
Ticket prices start from 90 KN (€11.50), but that’s for the midnight trip. Fares for day buses start from 117 KN (€15.50). The bus ride takes around 3 hours.
Departure and arrival station
All buses depart from Dubrovnik Bus Terminal, which you can find 4 km north of the fortified town. This bus terminal is just beside the ferry terminal.
They arrive at Makarska Central Bus Station in Makarska city centre. From here, you can easily walk to your accommodation if it’s located in the centre.
Bus schedules from Dubrovnik to Makarska
Dubrovnik to Makarska by Ferry
During the high season, the ferry is a great alternative to get from Dubrovnik to Makarska.
Kapetan Luka is the only ferry sailing on this route. They offer 1 trip daily from June to September.
Although a ferry ride is double the price of the bus, it’s a nice way to combine transport with sightseeing. The coastal views from the ferry are truly amazing!
A ticket costs 302 KN (€40) for the 3-hour ferry ride.
Departure and arrival station
The ferry departs from Port Gruz in Dubrovnik and arrives at Makarska Ferry Port.
Both ports are just within the city centres, where most hotels and restaurants are located.
Ferry Schedule from Dubrovnik to Makarska
Our favourite places to stay in Makarska
Apartments Pivac - Budget Friendly
The apartments are large, spacious and modern. There’s plenty of spaces to relax, whether it be in the sitting area, the balcony or dining area. It’s a perfect choice for both couples or if you’re travelling as a group, as apartments are available for up to 4 people.
Staying here you’ll be close to both the beach and the centre of Makarsa. You’ll also have an amazing stay due to the friendly and helpful hosts, who will do their best to give you an incredible stay.
- New and modern apartments
- Fully-equipped kitchens
- Balcony
- Great location
Private rooms start from €31 per night
Apartments Nikolina - Mid-Range
Nikolina apartments is as close as you’re going to get to a 10 out of 10 accommodation. Especially for such a low price! You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an interior design magazine when you see these apartments. They’re ultra-modern, clean and homely.
As if the apartment isn’t enough, the hosts go above and beyond to make your stay perfect. Just sit back and relax as you admire the sea view from your large private terrace.
- Beautiful and modern apartments
- Amazing hosts
- Terrace with sea view
- Large and comfy bed
Private apartments start from €41 per night
Boutique Hotel Ani - Treating Yourself
Once you step foot in this hotel, you won’t want to leave. You’ll feel like you’re at a luxury retreat, with the swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and gym! There’s plenty of other places to relax too, like on the sunloungers, in the outdoor lounge area by the bar or on your private balcony.
The exceptional breakfast served every morning will be the only thing that will make you want to get out of your huge, comfy bed.
- Swimming pool
- Gym
- Hot tub and sauna
- Onsite bar and restaurant
Private rooms start from €111 per night, including breakfast
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About the author(s)
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
