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How to get from Dubrovnik to Split
Split is a coastal town in Central Croatia on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. This makes it a popular transport hub to and from the nearby islands, such as Brac and Hvar.
A beautiful mix of old and new, Split is a great place to explore Croatia’s colourful history while also enjoying modern luxuries. Even if you’re just passing by after exploring Dubrovnik, we hope you can make a quick visit to the Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace. You can even climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius for the best views.
5 ways to get from Dubrovnik to Split
You have 5 options when crossing the 230 km distance from Dubrovnik to Split: a 4 to 4.5-hour bus, a 4.5 to 6-hour catamaran, a 3.5-hour private transfer, a 2.5-hour flight (incl. transfers) and a 13-hour day trip. Rates range between 150 KN (€20.00) and 1,665 KN (€220.00).
The bus is the cheapest public transport from Dubrovnik to Split. Fares start from 150 KN (€20.00), and the travel time takes 4-4.5 hours.
You can also travel by catamaran during the high season (April to October). The coastal route between Dubrovnik and Split, particularly the Dalmatian Coast, is quite beautiful. Travel time is 4.5-6 hours, depending on the passenger ferry you choose. Ticket prices start from 280 KN (€37.00).
Travelling in a group? If you split the cost, taking a private transfer from Dubrovnik to Split may not be that expensive. Rates start from 1,665 KN (€220.00) for a 3-seater car and 1,785 KN (€235.00) for an 8-seater minivan. Travel time is just 3.5 hours.
If you’re looking for the fastest way to get from Dubrovnik to Split, you can take a flight. Croatia Airlines and Trade Air operate 1-hour flights every Tuesday and Thursday. Combined rates start from 555 KN (€74.00) and journey time takes around 2.5 hours, including airport transfers.
Day tours are also available from Dubrovnik to Split. This is a good option if you only have a day to spare and don’t want to be bothered by transport options. A 13-hour day tour costs 760 KN (€100.00) per person on GetYourGuide.
Immigration Tips
As of July 2022, private vehicles and public buses now travel through the newly-built Peljesac Bridge, which is completely within Croatian territory. While it seems like a longer way, the travel time is just the same. You can bypass Bosnia so no more border crossings, and you won’t be stopped for visa checks!
Previously, those travelling from Split to Dubrovnik and vice versa had to take the Neum Corridor — a 23 km coastal road in Bosnia and lies between Central and South Dalmatia.
Passport holders from the European Union, United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand did not have any problem with this border crossing. But travellers from other countries had to present a multiple-entry Schengen visa.
For more details, you can visit the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Dubrovnik to Split by Bus
Buses operate on the Dubrovnik to Split route all year round. But note that there are less frequent departures outside the peak summer months (June to September).
Ticket prices start from 150 KN (€20.00). A bus ride from Dubrovnik to Split can take 4-4.5 hours.
The earliest bus leaves Split at 08:00, while the last trip is at 21:00.
Departure and arrival station
Buses depart from Dubrovnik Bus Terminal near the port of Gruz. This bus station is 4 km away from the Old Town.
They arrive at Split Bus Station, which is conveniently located next to the train station and ferry terminal in Split town centre.
Bus schedules from Dubrovnik to Split
Tickets are available to buy at the bus station. But because Split and Dubrovnik are both popular destinations, we recommend booking your ticket in advance. This way, you’ll have better chances of getting a seat on your desired schedule and you can skip the long lines at the terminal.
You can also pre-book a ticket round trip if you’re returning from Split to Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik to Split by Catamaran
When you visit Dubrovnik during the peak season from April to October, you can also take a catamaran to Split. We love this alternative option because it gives you a chance to enjoy a majestic view of the coastal route between the two cities, although it can be quite expensive.
Ticket prices start from 280 KN (€37.00), and ferry rides take 4.5 to 6 hours. You can expect daily departures during the high season.
There are a few options when it comes to passenger ferry companies. The high speed ferries on this route are Kapetan Luka and TP Line. Kapetan Luka is the most expensive but has the shortest travel time. It also gets really great reviews. TP Line is a new ferry on this route.
The third ferry is the cheaper Jadrolinija. It’s slower because it makes a few pick-up and drop-off stops on Korcula, Hvar, and Brac Island before finally docking at Split — an interesting way to go island-hopping!
Departure and arrival station
You can board your ferry from Gruz Pier in Dubrovnik. This pier is 4 km north of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
Ferries dock at Split Ferry Terminal, some 500m south of the town centre. This harbour is within walking distance of hotels and establishments in the town centre.
Ferry schedules from Dubrovnik to Split by Catamaran
We recommend taking the high speed ferry Kapetan Luka for a shorter travel time from Dubrovnik to Split. You can book your ticket in advance via BookAway.
Dubrovnik to Split by Private Transfer
Private transfers are a fast and convenient option when travelling in a group if you have the budget for it.
Rates start from 1,665 KN (€220.00) for a 3-seater car, which is quite expensive for a small group.
But if you’re travelling with more people, then you might be able to save money. Minivans that can fit 8 people are also available with rates from 1,785 KN (€235.00).
The journey from Dubrovnik to Split takes more or less 3.5 hours. A local driver will pick you up and drop you off anywhere you want within the two towns’ central areas. It is also possible to be dropped off at Split Airport for an additional fee of 45 KN (€6.00).
For the best customer service, we highly recommend booking your ride online via BookAway.
Check Private Transfers with BookAway
Dubrovnik to Split by Flight
A flight is the fastest way to get from Dubrovnik to Split. But there’s a catch: direct flights for this route are only available twice a week. Including airport transfers, journey time is less than three hours.
The airlines flying between Dubrovnik and Split are Trade Air and Croatia Airlines.
Step 1: Dubrovnik City Centre to Dubrovnik Airport by Bus
Airport shuttles are the cheapest way to get to Dubrovnik Airport from the city centre. A ticket costs 55 KN (€7.00). These airport buses depart from the Central Bus Station in Gruz — 2 hours before an international flight and 90 minutes before a domestic flight.
If you’re staying in the Old Town, you can board the bus at the Cable Car Bus Stop. Travel time is around 40 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi for around 230 KN ($32.50).
Step 2: Dubrovnik to Split by Flight
Croatia Airlines and Trade Air offer direct flights from Dubrovnik to Split every Tuesday and Thursday.
Airfares range between 490 KN (€65.00) and 570 KN (€76.00). Flight time is around 1 hour.
Step 3: Split Airport to Split City Centre
From Split Airport, you will find the Old Town 30 km east. Also here, the best way to get to your hotel is by airport bus. A ticket costs 35 KN (€4.60) and buses depart from the airport in time for every flight arrival.
These buses take you straight to Split Bus Terminal, which is just within walking distance from the bus station.
If you want to be brought straight to your hotel, rates for a taxi ride start from 230 KN (€30.50)
Dubrovnik to Split by Day Trip
If you don’t have much time to spend on Split, you can also join a 13-hour day trip from Dubrovnik. Keep in mind that travel time alone will take about 8 hours back and forth, so that will leave you with just 5 hours to explore Split.
This tour features a visit to Split waterfront Riva, gives you time to explore the Old Town and the Croatian Coast on your own, and lets you check out some local organic products.
Rates start from 760 KN (€100.00) when you book with GetYourGuide.
Our favourite places to stay in Split
Important: Tourism in Croatia is very seasonal. Much of the available accommodation in Croatia is fully booked in the summer, but many sites are closed in the winter months. With July and August being the peak season, rates can rise 3 times as high as compared the low season or shoulder months. We recommend booking your accommodation at least 1 month in advance to lock in better rates.
Apartment and Room Stone House - Budget Friendly
These modern and airy apartments, situated in Split centre are just moments away from the famous Diocletian’s palace, Bacvice Beach and a not unimportant – a delicious local bakery.
Watch the world go by on your own private balcony, or just relax after a day of exploring Split in your newly renovated, air-conditioned room. Nothing is too much for the host, Goran, who can give you the best insider tips.
- Newly renovated
- Short walk to famous landmarks
- Very friendly host
- Private balconies available
Guest House Kala - Mid Range
Close to the hustle and bustle of Split, but still located within a quiet neighbourhood. At House Kala you do not need to worry about being kept up at night.
The rooms boast a homely and charming ambience, utilising the rustic stone that Split is famous for. Each room has their own private patio, where you can enjoy your welcome drink and relax.
- Modern and clean rooms
- Welcome drink
- Great location
- Friendly and helpful hosts
Luxury Rooms Lucija and Luka - Treating Yourself
Located within the pedestrian zone of Split’s Old Town, you can’t be closer to the centre than this hotel. The rooms offer a stunning blend of modern and old, with each one having a seating area, minbar and coffee machine.
You’ll struggle to find a fault in this hotel, especially when the hosts are so incredibly kind and helpful.
- Perfect location
- Room views of Split’s landmarks
- Friendly hosts
- Large and clean rooms
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.
