Overview Compare Bus Ferry Taxi Day Trip To Stay
Covid-19 Update: The pandemic is almost at its end, but due to staff shortage in tourism, availability and prices keep changing from week to week. We strive to keep everything up-to-date, but unfortunately this is not always possible. You can visit the booking websites discussed in this article to check the updated availability.
How to get from Split to Dubrovnik?
Dubbed as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the striking Dubrovnik will enchant you with its ancient walled city. Almost like it is pulled from a book, Dubrovnik’s baroque architecture and limestone streets, backdropped by the ever-glistening Adriatic, is a jaw-dropping sight.
If you’re a fan of the hit TV series Game of Thrones, then you’ll find most 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.
While both Split and Dubrovnik are coastal towns, the latter gives a more ancient and somewhat magical vibe.
TIP: Make sure to check out our brand new Dubrovnik Travel Guide full of the best tips on where to stay, restaurants to eat and how to get around. Already know when you’re arriving in Split? Start planning your days with these 15 best things to do in Split for an unforgettable trip.
4 ways to get from Split to Dubrovnik
There are 4 ways to travel the 230km distance from Split to Dubrovnik: a 4 to 5-hour bus, a 4.5 to 6-hour catamaran, a 3.5-hour private transfer, or a 12-hour day tour. Fares range between 144 KN (€19) and 1,670 KN (€220).
The bus is the cheapest and most convenient way to get from Split to Dubrovnik. It’s also available all year round. Ticket prices start from 144 KN (€19) for the 4 to 5-hour journey.
During the peak tourist season (June to September), there is also an option to take a catamaran. These catamarans stop at several islands along the way, so travel time can take from 4.5 to 6 hours. Fares start from 280 KN (€37).
Are you travelling with a group? A private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik takes only around 3.5 hours, making it the fastest option. Rates start from 1,640 KN (€215) for a 3-seater car and 1,790 KN (€235) for an 8-seater minivan.
If you plan on visiting the old town for just a day, you can also join an organized day tour from Split to Dubrovnik. This normally takes 12 hours (including travel time), and rates start from 525 KN (€69).
Immigration Tips
Depending on which route your transportation will take, you may pass Neum Corridor from Split to Dubrovnik. Neum Corridor is a 23km coastal strip in Bosnia and lies between Central and South Dalmatia. Many tourists don’t take into consideration that Croatia’s territory is interrupted by this short border crossing.
Tourists carrying passports from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand shouldn’t have any problem crossing the borders. If you’re from other countries though, you’ll need to present a multiple-entry Schengen visa. Otherwise, you’ll be a “trapped tourist” and won’t be allowed to go back the same way.
For more details, you can visit the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik
Split to Dubrovnik by Bus
The bus is a cheap and easy way to get from Split to Dubrovnik. There are several bus companies with daily trips that you can choose from.
Ticket rates start from 144 KN (€19). Buses depart as early as 02:35 with the last trip at 18:45. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and border queues going through Neum Corridor.
If you are taking luggage with you, you may be charged an extra 7 KN (€0.90) per suitcase.
Departure & Arrival station
Buses depart from Split Bus Station. This terminal is conveniently located next to the train station and ferry terminal in the town centre.
Dubrovnik Bus Terminal, on the other hand, is located near the port of Gruz. This port is 4km away from the Old Town.
Below are the usual bus schedules during the peak season from April to October. Note that fewer buses operate outside these months.
Bus schedule from Split to Dubrovnik
You can buy your tickets at the bus terminal or book them online beforehand through GetByBus.
Split to Dubrovnik by Catamaran
If you’re travelling from Split to Dubrovnik within the busiest season from June to September, you also have the option to take a catamaran.
Taking the ferry is more expensive than the bus, but you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful view of the Croatian coast.
Kapetan Luka, TP Line, and Jadrolinija each operate 1 ferry trip daily during this busy season.
Ticket prices start from 280 KN (€37) when you travel with Jadrolinija, but travel time takes 6 hours. If you take Kapetan Luka or TP Line, you can reach Dubrovnik in just 4.5-5.5 hours.
Departure & Arrival station
Catamarans depart from Split Ferry Port on the southern edge of the Old Town.
They arrive at Gruz Port, 4km north of Dubrovnik’s fortified city.
Jadrolinija ferries from Split to Dubrovnik drop off passengers on various islands along the way, such as Brac, Hvar, and Korčula. This makes it a sort of island-hopping trip except you can’t get off the catamaran.
Catamaran schedule from Split to Dubrovnik
We suggest booking in advance for a hassle-free ferry trip from Split to Dubrovnik.
Split to Dubrovnik by Private Transfer
If you are with a group of up to 8 persons, you can also consider booking a private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik.
It’s a very comfortable way to travel with family or friends, and it’s also a bit faster than the bus or the catamaran. Travel time is around 3.5 hours.
Another advantage is that you will be picked up and dropped off anywhere and anytime you want within the town centres of Split and Dubrovnik. They also offer airport pick up/drop off with an extra charge of 43 KN (€5.50).
Book a Private Transfer with BookAway
Private transfer rates start from 1,640 KN (€215) for a 3-seater car. If you’re in a group of 8, you can get a minivan for 1,760 KN (€230). Split the cost, and it’s even a couple euros cheaper than a catamaran ticket.
Split to Dubrovnik by Day Trip
Travellers who won’t stay for long in Dubrovnik are suited for day trips. These are organized tours that provide a great introduction to the old coastal town.
Day tours from Split to Dubrovnik take a total of 12 hours. However, considering the distance between the 2 cities, you’ll most probably be able to spend just around 4 hours in Dubrovnik. That’s not enough time to really get to know this beautiful town, if you ask us.
If you really have limited time, rates for a day trip from Split to Dubrovnik start from 525 KN (€69). You can also check GetYourGuide for other tour options.
Book a day trip with Get Your Guide
Our favourite places to stay in Dubrovnik
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
Private rooms start from €28 per night
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
Private rooms start from €47 per night
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
Private rooms start from €74 per night
