Covid-19 Update: Due to the current pandemic, availability and prices are 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.
4 ways to get from Split to Dubrovnik
There are 4 ways to travel the 230km distance from Split to Dubrovnik: a 4-hour bus, a 4.5 to 6-hour catamaran, a 3.5-hour private transfer, or a 12-hour day tour. Fares range between 98 KN (€13) and 1,535 KN (€205).
The bus is the cheapest and most convenient way to get from Split to Dubrovnik. Also, it’s available all year round. Ticket prices start from 98 KN (€13) for the 4 to 5-hour journey.
During the peak tourist season from June to September, there is also an option to take a catamaran. These stop at several islands along the way so travel time can take from 4.5 to 6 hours. Fares start from 220 KN (€29).
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 1,535 KN (€205) for a 3-seater car and 1,655 KN (€221) 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 505 KN (€67).
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
Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours
Cost: 98 KN (€13)
The bus is a cheap and easy way to get from Split to Dubrovnik.
There are several bus companies that you can choose from. Ticket rates start from 98 KN (€13) and buses depart as early as 02:35. Travel time is around 4 to 4.5 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 (€1) per suitcase.
Below are the usual bus schedules during the peak season from April to October. Note that fewer buses operate outside those months.
Bus schedule
| Bus Operator | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Croatia Bus | 12:30-16:35 18:45-22:45 02:35-06:45 | 4 hours 05 minutes 4 hours 4 hours 10 minutes | 120 KN (€16) |
| Samoborček | 03:45-08:00 | 4 hours 15 minutes | 98 KN (€13) |
| Arriva | 13:00-17:30 17:15-21:45 | 4.5 hours | 130 KN (€17) |
| Promet Makarska | 08:00-12:00 | 4 hours | 120 KN (€16) |
| Cazmatrans Promet | 10:00-14:30 14:00-18:30 | 4.5 hours | 130 KN (€17) |
You can buy your tickets at the bus terminal or book them online beforehand through GetByBus.
Check Bus Tickets with GetByBus
Split Bus Station 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, some 4km from the Old Town.
Split to Dubrovnik by Catamaran
Duration: 4.5 – 6 hours
Cost: 220 KN (€29)
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. It’s more expensive than the bus, but you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful view of the Croatian coast.
Also, the ferries 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.
Kapetan Luka and Jadrolinija each operate 1 daily ferry trip during this time. Ticket prices start from 220 KN (€29) when you travel with Jadrolinija. It’s 1.5 hours slower than Kapetan Luka though!
Catamaran schedule
| Ferry Operator | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kapetan Luka Book with BookAway | 07:40-12:05 | 4 hours 25 minutes | 307 KN (€41) |
| Jadrolinija | 15:30-21:25 | 5 hours 55 minutes | 220 KN (€29) |
Check Catamaran Tickets on Jadrolinija
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.
Split to Dubrovnik by Private Transfer
Duration: 3.5 hours
Cost: from 1,535 KN (€205)
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 a bit faster than the bus or the catamaran.
More importantly, 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 (€6).
Private transfer rates start from 1,535 KN (€205) for a 3-seater car. If you’re in a group of 8, you can get a minivan for 1,655 KN (€221). Split the cost and it’s even a couple euros cheaper than a catamaran ticket. Travel time is around 3.5 hours.
Book a Private Transfer with BookAway
Split to Dubrovnik by Day Trip
Duration: 12 hours
Cost: 505 KN (€67)
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. But 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.
But if you really have limited time, rates for a day trip start from 505 KN (€67). You can also check GetYourGuide for other tour options.
More routes from Split
Looking for more routes from Split? Check out the list below:
My 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
