Overview Compare Bus Ferry Taxi Day Trip 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 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 Dubrovnik? Start planning your days with these 15 best things to do in Dubrovnik for an unforgettable trip.
4 ways to get from Split to Dubrovnik
There are 4 ways to travel the 230 km distance from Split to Dubrovnik: a 4 to 4.5-hour bus, a 4.5 to 6-hour catamaran, a 3.5-hour private transfer, or a 12-hour day tour. Fares range between 150 KN (€19.50) 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 150 KN (€19.50) for the 4 to 4.5-hour journey.
There is also an option to take a catamaran but only during the summer season (April to October). 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 in 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 organised day tour from Split to Dubrovnik. This normally takes 12 hours (including travel time), and rates start from 525 KN (€69).
Immigration tips for Split to Dubrovnik
If you travel from Split to Dubrovnik, you can take the Neum Corridor. Neum Corridor is a 23 km coastal strip 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 should not have any problem crossing the borders. If you are from other countries, you’ll need to present a multiple-entry Schengen visa.
The last time we checked (July 2022), private vehicles and public buses now travel through the newly built Peljesac Bridge. While it seems like a longer way, the travel time is just the same because you won’t be stopped for visa checks.
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 150 KN (€19.50). Buses depart as early as 02:35 with the last trip at 18:45. Travel time is around 4 to 4.5 hours.
If you are taking luggage with you, you may be charged an extra 7 KN (€0.90) per suitcase.
Departure and 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 4 km 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 BookAway.
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 one ferry trip daily between April and October.
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 to 5.5 hours.
Departure and arrival station
Catamarans depart from Split Ferry Port on the southern edge of the Old Town.
They arrive at Gruz Port, 4 km 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 your ticket in advance.
Split to Dubrovnik by Private Transfer
If you are in a group of 8 people, 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).
Check Private Transfers with BookAway
Private transfer rates start from 1,640 KN (€215) for a 3-seater car. With minivans, rates start from 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 organised 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 two 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.
Check Day Trips 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
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
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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.
