How to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik
Why visit Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is an ancient walled city dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” It will enchant you with its baroque architecture and limestone streets, backdropped by the ever-glistening Adriatic. This red-roofed city has a special charm that sets it apart from all other Croatian cities.
Just walking around the Old Town is probably already the best thing to do in Dubrovnik. And if you’re a fan of the hit TV series Game of Thrones, you’ll find many of its streets familiar. Dubrovnik was the main location for the show’s King’s Landing, including the alley where they shot Cersei’s iconic walk of shame!
What are the 3 ways to travel from Makarska to Dubrovnik?
There are 3 ways to travel the 150 kilometre (93 miles) distance from Makarska to Dubrovnik. You can choose between the bus, private transport and ferry. The journey takes 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes and the quickest way is by bus. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at €18.90 ($22).
Where to stay in Dubrovnik?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Dubrovnik at the bottom of this page.
Makarska to Dubrovnik by Bus
The bus is the cheapest way to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik.
There are six companies operating this route year-round, so you can take the bus even outside the tourist season (June to September).
Ticket fares start from €18.90 ($22), and travel time is around 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes.
There are many bus departures throughout the day, but we recommend booking Autotrans by Arriva. They’re one of the most reliable companies on the route, with consistently good reviews from travellers.
Departure and arrival stations
All buses depart from Makarska Bus Station in the city centre.
You will be dropped off at Dubrovnik Bus Station, about 4 km from the Old Town of Dubrovnik. From here you can take a taxi to your accommodation. We recommend checking the Bolt taxi app for the best prices.
Bus schedules from Makarska to Dubrovnik
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Makarska to Dubrovnik by Ferry
One way to travel from Makarska to Dubrovnik is by ferry.
Krilo (Kapetan Luka) is the only ferry company covering this route. It offers a scenic option during the tourist season from June to September. The ferry can be a great choice if the bus tickets sell out, but it is more expensive.
A ticket costs €48.50 ($56) for the 3 hours 40 minutes ferry ride. That’s more than double the price of the bus ticket, but we think it’s worth it if you want some extra sightseeing.
The ferry departs daily in the morning, and passengers can enjoy beautiful views of the Croatian coast throughout the journey.
Departure and arrival stations
You can board the ferry at Makarska Ferry Port right in the city centre. It’s easy to reach on foot if you’re staying nearby.
The ferry docks at Port Gruz, just beside the bus terminal in Dubrovnik.
Ferry schedule from Makarska to Dubrovnik
We recommend booking your tickets via BookAway in advance to secure your seat on the ferry.
Makarska to Dubrovnik by Private Transport
A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Makarska to Dubrovnik.
Croatia Shuttle operates on this route and receives excellent reviews from customers.
Rates start from €255 ($295) for a 3-seater private transfer. Divide the cost, and that’s about €84 ($98) per person. If you’re travelling in a large group, you can book a private minivan instead. It’s a more economical option when you divide the fare between several people.
Travel time is around 2 hours 40 minutes.
We recommend booking your private transfer online a few days before your desired travel date.
Private transport options from Makarska to Dubrovnik
Best places to stay in Dubrovnik
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.
Rooms Franica - Budget Friendly
Rooms Franica is a great choice if you’re travelling on a budget. The rooms are surrounded by gardens flourishing with flowers, plus your own patio. The beach is within walking distance and the Old Town is only 10 minutes away by bus.
The bonus of staying in a guesthouse is that you’re instantly made to feel at home. The hosts are super helpful and the rooms are comfortable and clean, offering everything you need.
- Close to the beach and supermarket
- Only 10m by bus to the Old Town
- Beautiful gardens
- Friendly and helpful hosts
- Private patio
Guest House Tomasi - Mid Range
This guesthouse is a magical blend of the old and the new. It boasts a modern flare, whilst still celebrating its origins with its exposed stone walls.
The hotel is located within Dubrovnik’s UNESCO- listed Old Town. You can’t really get a better location than this. Plus, the beach is also only 130 meters away! The owners treat you like their own family offering you apples, coffee and other treats.
- Amazing and friendly hosts
- Within Dubrovnik Old Town
- Huge and comfy beds
- Close to the beach
Villa Four Winds - Treating Yourself
If your heart is set on staying here, make sure to book it straight away as this Villa gets booked up fast! And for good reason.
Everything is at your doorstep, as you’ll be situated within the Old Town. This means that any window you look out of, offers you stunning views of Dubrovnik. The star of the show has to be Villa Four’s host. She takes the hotel to another level!
- Amazing views of the city
- Perfect location
- Friendly and helpful host
- Modern and large rooms
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Makarska to Dubrovnik
What is the distance from Makarska to Dubrovnik?
The distance from Makarska to Dubrovnik is 150 kilometre (93 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik?
The fastest way to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik is by bus and takes 2 hours 30 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik?
The cheapest way to get from Makarska to Dubrovnik is by bus with ticket costs starting from €18.90 ($22).
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.
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
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.
