How to Get from Split to Dubrovnik ( & Dubrovnik to Split)

by Jelena | Jan 20, 2022

Split to Dubrovnik is arguably the most travelled route in Croatia during the summer months, and it’s really no wonder why. It’s not every day you get to make the trip between two UNESCO-protected coastal towns, and indeed two of Croatia’s most attractive ones.

This popular route surely offers several modes of transportation, but it’s best to leave it up to the experts (well, locals) to help you decide which one works for your next Croatian holiday. Luckily, we are here to break it down for you to make your next Split-Dubrovnik Road trip as painless as possible.

Catamaran

Yes, travelling from Split to Dubrovnik by catamaran is possible, but not nearly as glamorous as it sounds. Two companies, Jadrolinija and Krilo, run catamarans from Split to Dubrovnik in the summer months, but not without making a few stops. Travel times run between 4.5 to 6 hours, with the Krilo line stopping in Split – Bol – Makarska – Korčula – Mljet – Dubrovnik or Split – Brač – Makarska – Korčula – Mljet – Dubrovnik, and Jadrolinija in Split – Bol – Hvar – Korčula – Dubrovnik. Ticket prices cost between 170 to 220 kuna depending on which company you choose. Not only do tickets tend to sell out quickly during the peak season, but there are only 2-3 timetable options per day. There is currently no car ferry operating between Split and Dubrovnik.

Bus

The cheapest option is the bus, though it is certainly not the most time-efficient. With summer traffic and frequent stops, this journey may take up to 6 hours! It’s important to note that buses run at full capacity in the summer months, and when you mix the crowds with the heat, you’ll have wished you opted for another option – like a private transfer.

Private transfer

There is a lot that the comfort of a car can do for you on holiday, and booking a private transfer is often the best decision you’ll make during your travels. Not only is the driving time between Split and Dubrovnik only 3 hours, but private transfers offer you the freedom to sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The drive from Split to Dubrovnik is rated one of Croatia’s most beautiful.

Not to mention that you do not have to worry about being behind the wheel in a foreign country, but you also have the luxury to explore some of the coastal gems between the two cities. Like the Makarska Riviera, offering some of Dalmatia’s best beaches for all ages, or our favourite town on the way to Split – Ston. Located an hour outside of Dubrovnik, Ston is a foolproof stop to break up your trip for many reasons. Whether you want to indulge in the town’s oysters, take a walk around the ‘European Great Wall of China’, or explore the ancient saltworks, the oldest and largest preserved in the Mediterranean, the options are endless. The small town also offers authentic seafood-focused restaurants where you can take your time at the tavern and enjoy the local wine. Speaking of wine – only about 20 minutes away from Ston is Croatia’s famous wine region Pelješac, where you can adventure for a tasting or two (remember, you’re not the one driving).

And if you need to get to Split or Dubrovnik in a hurry or don’t want to wake up at the crack of dawn? You don’t need to take the leisurely route. Instead, travel directly between the two cities. Departing in the morning allows you to comfortably arrive by the early afternoon, check in to your accommodation and even have time for an afternoon walking tour!

Keep in mind: If taking the bus or a private transfer, you’ll need to have your passport handy. The route currently passes through the Neum corridor, which is part of Bosnia & Herzegovina. However, the Pelješac bridge opening in the summer of 2022 will keep your ride within Croatia.

Led by professional chauffeurs and Mercedes vehicles, you can explore our private transfers here.