Wondering how to go from one Croatian gem to the other? Here we bring a complete overview for all sorts of travelers and budgets.
By car, the distance between Split and Dubrovnik is roughly 229 kilometers. The journey will take about 4 hours, depending on traffic and border delays, which are most common during summer months.
Before we list all the options, note that there is no train between Split and Dubrovnik. So, if you were thinking of traveling by train, it is not going to be possible.
Here is how you CAN:
By car – taking the A1 motorway
This is the most direct and, therefore, the shortest route from Split to Dubrovnik. If there is no traffic and no border queues, it will be a 3.5 hours drive. From the city of Split, travel to Dugopolje and join the A1 Motorway, which you will follow for almost 100 kilometers till it ends at Ploče.
The route then continues along the coastal highway, passing via a border crossing. This summer, you’ll be able to avoid going through Bosnia when the Pelješac bridge opens. This means Croatia will finally be connected!
By car – the coastal route
The other option is the coastal route which will take at least 4.5 hours (probably more than 5 hours in high season). It is, nevertheless, a terrific alternative for individuals who are not in a rush and want to see some spectacular vistas along the way. You’ll drive through a number of villages and towns, as well as the stunning Makarska Riviera.
Car rental
You don’t have a car and don’t want to use the bus?
Croatia has a plethora of automobile rental providers, offering prices that are becoming increasingly competitive. When it comes to budgets and comfort, it may be the best alternative for you, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
By taxi
Yes, you can take a taxi between the two cities. However, from a strictly financial standpoint, we would not recommend it. There are private transfer options that are significantly less expensive.
There are plenty of taxis in Dubrovnik and Split, so you won’t have any trouble finding one. However, we told you, this is not the best option unless you want to pay lots of money!
By private transfer
A private transfer is ideal for anyone who wants to travel stress-free. Forget about sweltering buses and crowds of people waiting for ferries.
A private transfer ensures that your transportation is arranged in advance, at a fixed price and at an agreed time. When you book a private transport, you’re sure there are no hidden fees or charges. Moreover, you choose the pick-up time and any stops you want to make on your way. Most importantly, you’ll enjoy the comfort of vehicles that are brand new. Book your trip with us and relax!
By bus
Traveling from Split to Dubrovnik by bus is the cheapest way to travel. You’ll find Split bus station close to the train station and ferry port. Dubrovnik bus station is where the port of Gruž is located. Usually, it takes about 4.5 hours, including pauses, to arrive from one destination to another. However, as we stated in the intro, summer traffic may cause some delays in travel.
Fortunately, Pelješac bridge opens this summer so buses will be able to cross it to go to Dubrovnik. This means you’ll save time since you won’t have to wait at the borders.
When it comes to price, you can expect the cost of a one-way trip ticket to be approximately 20 euros. Since there are many bus firms competing, traveling from Dubrovnik to Split is inexpensive. Considering this, there are many buses available during the day so you’ll easily find a time that suits you. However, we do recommend booking your ticket in advance so you’re sure you will catch the bus you want.
By catamaran
Two firms now operate ferries between Split and Dubrovnik (and the other way around): Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka. Depending on the route, travel time ranges from 4 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours. Moreover, these do not operate during the winter months and solely transport passengers.
Krilo operates two catamaran routes from Split to Dubrovnik. Split – Brač – Hvar – Korčula – Mljet – Dubrovnik is the first, followed by Split – Brač – Makarska – Korčula – Mljet – Dubrovnik. From April until the end of October, Krilo ferry services are available for 280 kunas (one-way trip). You will pay the same price if you book with Jadrolinija.
Jadrolinija operates a catamaran service from Dubrovnik to Split with three stops along the route. It’s important to mention that many ferry services sell out rapidly, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. They may be purchased online, which is the most secure method of purchasing a catamaran ticket.
Avoiding Bosnia – car & ferry
Until Pelješac bridge opens, there is a way to drive between Split and Dubrovnik, while avoiding crossing through BiH. It’s a longer route, but it’s also more picturesque.
You will arrive at Ploče whether you choose the seaside or the motorway route from Split. You’ll then take a Jadrolinija ferry to Trpanj on the Pelješac peninsula. This way you’ll be able to travel to Dubrovnik without stopping at any borders from there. After you pass Ston, you will join the main road. When travelling from Dubrovnik to Split, be sure you don’t miss the Pelješac Peninsula.
You can find the Ploče – Trpanj ferry timetable on Jadrolinija’s official website.
We’ve put all of the options in one place to help you choose the best one for your Dubrovnik to Split (or vice versa) transportation. Please keep in mind that timetables are subject to change. So, be sure to check the website of the transportation operator for the most up-to-date information.
If you need any help with itinerary planning, get in touch with us at info@dubrovnikprivate.tours. We’ll be more than happy to lend a hand!
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