Embarking from Split to Dubrovnik, or vice versa, ranks among the most sought-after travel experiences along the Croatian coast. The allure of exploring both destinations, each boasting UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the Old Town of Dubrovnik—coupled with their stunning waterfronts, pristine beaches, and the rich tapestry of history evident in their architecture, makes this route exceptionally popular.

The Travel Options Between Split and Dubrovnik

Split and Dubrovnik, approximately 230 km apart, offer several travel modes to suit every preference, from the independence of a car drive to the scenic beauty of ferry rides.

There are multiple routes to travel between Split and Dubrovnik, which are separated by about 230 km. Travelling by car is the most practical option, and a summertime ferry ride along the Adriatic like this one will be fun.

Additionally, you have access to 20 to 30 bus connections every day.

To assist you in choosing the best course of action for your transfer from Dubrovnik to Split, I have included all your options in one post.

Dubrovnik To Split Map

Driving:

The journey by car is the quickest, taking about 3 hours, allowing travellers to explore the coastline at their leisure. Private transfers provide a stress-free option for those seeking luxury and convenience, eliminating the hassles of navigation and border crossings, starting at 255 euros.

Split To Dubrovnik Drive

Taking The A1 Motorway From Split To Dubrovnik:

The most direct route is the usual multi-lane motorway from Split to Dubrovnik. Head towards the Dugopolje entry to the A1 from Split's centre. Once on the highway, continue for approximately 100km until it ends at Ploce. From there, take the coast road to Dubrovnik without stopping at Neum to cross the borders or Komarna to cross the Pelješac Bridge. Tolls will cost you around 8 euros.

Peljesac Bridge: No Roaming Through Bosnia AnyMore:

A cable-stayed bridge, the Pelješac Bridge spans the Peljeesac peninsula and connects it to the Croatian mainland at Komarna in 2022. It is situated in Dubrovnik-Neretva County. Travellers between Split and Dubrovnik can now avoid the brief coastal strip of Bosnia and Herzegovina at Neum, avoid spending hours waiting in line at the border, and continue their journey within Croatian territory thanks to the bridge. The 2.4 km long bridge is free to cross, but it can only be used by cars faster than 60 km/h; pedestrians are not permitted to travel.

Route D8 (E65): the Split to Dubrovnik coastal road

The only road route from Split to Dubrovnik was the Adriatic Highway (Jadranska Magistrala) when the A1 motorway was finished about ten years ago. The Adriatic Highway travels from Rijeka to the border with Montenegro in Croatia. With vistas worth a million dollars, this route is breathtaking to drive. Take the coast route from Split to Ploce if you have time to explore the spectacular Dalmatian coast. This route passes through Omis and the stunning Makarska Riviera. Travelling these routes in high season takes about four to five hours due to their extreme slowness; in low season, the trip will go more quickly.

Driving From Split To Dubrovnik and Across The Neum Corridor:

If you choose not to use the bridge, you will go through Bosnia-Herzegovina (BiH), which entails passing into and out of Croatia twice. This incredibly narrow length of shoreline, known as the Neum Corridor, can cause serious issues if your paperwork needs to be in order.

Even so, using the Neum Corridor to drive from Dubrovnik to Split and the other way around will typically present only issues at most 99% of the time. There are records of instances where people were stopped. Also, all it takes to cross the border with a passport or ID card is for residents of the EU as well as citizens of Switzerland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

Foreign nationals will require a passport to be stamped each time they cross an international border. You should take a different route if you travel to Croatia with a single-entry visa.

Go from Split to Dubrovnik via Ploce and Trpanj Ferry.

Since the bridge is being built, this route is no longer feasible because using the bridge is much faster. If the bridge is closed, you could drive from Ploce to Trpanj on the Peljesac Peninsula and continue moving toward Dubrovnik.

• Excursions:

  Transforming a straightforward transfer into an excursion opens up opportunities to explore the Dalmatian coastline and its charming towns, with options to visit Omis, the Makarska Riviera, and even a detour to Mostar before reaching Dubrovnik.

• Taxis and Car Rentals:

  While taxis may offer a direct route, they can be costly. An economical alternative, especially for groups, is car rental, allowing for a flexible journey between the cities.

• Bus Service:

  Bus travel is affordable, offering 20 to 30 daily connections, with trips taking around 4 to 5 hours. This mode of transport is popular among backpackers and those on a budget.

• Ferries and Catamarans:

  Although there is no direct ferry service, catamaran services offer a scenic route with multiple stops, including the beautiful islands of Brac and Hvar.

• Air Travel:

  While direct flights are limited and may include stopovers, flying offers the fastest way to cover the distance, albeit not the most convenient considering airport transfers.

• Yacht Charter:

  Chartering a yacht for a luxurious and memorable experience allows travellers to explore the Adriatic Sea and its islands at their own pace.

What to Explore Along the Way

The journey between Split and Dubrovnik is not just about reaching your destination but also about the experiences along the way. From the breathtaking Klis Fortress to the serene Bacina Lakes and the gastronomic delight of Ston’s oysters, countless opportunities exist to immerse in the local culture and natural beauty. Adventure seekers can enjoy zip-lining in Omis or wine tasting on the Peljesac Peninsula, ensuring the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Practical Travel Tips

• Planning: Whether opting for a car, bus, ferry, or a private transfer, planning is crucial. Booking tickets or rentals in advance can save both time and money.
• Border Crossings: When driving, be mindful of border crossings, especially if not using the Pelješac Bridge, which bypasses Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Seasonal Traffic: Traffic can significantly increase travel times during the summer, so consider this when planning your journey.

Conclusion

Travelling from Split to Dubrovnik offers a unique opportunity to explore the best of what Croatia has to offer. Whether by land, sea, or air, the journey between these two iconic cities is filled with scenic beauty, historical sites, and a wealth of cultural experiences. You can ensure a memorable trip along the Croatian coast in 2024 with careful planning and an adventurous spirit.

FAQS

Is there a train between Split and Dubrovnik?

Sadly, it is not feasible to travel by train from Split to Dubrovnik! It is not possible to travel from Split to Dubrovnik by train. From Split, you can take the train as far as Ploce; to obtain the remaining tip, you must take a bus or taxi transfer to Dubrovnik.

Are there any border crossings to be aware of when driving from Split to Dubrovnik?

Yes, suppose you choose not to use the Pelješac Bridge. In that case, you must pass through the Neum Corridor, which involves crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina and then back into Croatia. It's essential to ensure your travel documents are to avoid any complications.

Day trips from Split and Dubrovnik

Sure, if you have limited time and want to tour Split or Dubrovnik. Just be ready for a demanding day! It's a long drive from Dubrovnik to Split for a day excursion. After roughly six hours, you will have four hours to explore the city. If you're more leisurely, plan to spend some time in Split or Dubrovnik. We recommend staying overnight so you can maximise your time.