The road distance from Split to Dubrovnik is 142 miles. As the crow flies, only 102 miles separate the cities.
How long does it take to get from Split to Dubrovnik?
A private transfer takes 3 hours and 10 minutes, making it the quickest way to get from Split to Dubrovnik. While the flight from Split to Dubrovnik is under 40 minutes, you need to add 3 hours for transportation to and from the airport and waiting time. The average ferry trip takes 6 hours but has great views the entire time.
Should I take a day trip from Split to Dubrovnik?
A day trip is possible from Split to Dubrovnik with Daytrip's fast yet safe door-to-door service, but you'll want to leave early in the morning. However, it's best to stay in Dubrovnik for at least three days to soak up its rich offerings.
How much is a car service from Split to Dubrovnik?
From тВм59, Daytrip offers door-to-door services with an English-speaking driver with extensive local knowledge. And with Daytrip, you can stop for sightseeing along the way.
What's the easiest way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik?
A private door-to-door service with Daytrip is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik.
Can I get a train from Split to Dubrovnik?
There's no direct train from Split. Alternative public transport options include the bus, flight, and ferry.
Are there border controls from Split to Dubrovnik?
In 2022, the construction of the Peljesac Bridge will allow visitors to bypass border control driving from Split. However, some buses still pass through Neum, which requires passport controls.
The car trip from Split to Dubrovnik captures everything you imagine about Croatia. Golden beaches sprawl along the sun-drenched shores, and historical monuments, a reminder of the nation's rich yet bloody history, dot every mile. Stunning scenery that looks suspiciously like the set of Game of Thrones sparks a sense of adventure, which is heightened by the opportunities of taking a door-to-door service.
This unforgettable 142-mile drive begins from the moment you set off. The palm-lined promenade is just a view in your rear mirror, and a postcard-perfect view of the Croatian countryside is painted before you. As you begin moving south, you become sandwiched between the refreshing turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea and the rustic Mosor Mountains.
As you continue admiring the landscape, you feel transported back in time. You'll pass through quaint villages with terracotta roofs and vineyards still seemingly using traditional methods to farm delicious olives, grapes, and fruits. After a brief border crossing with Bosnia, you'll know you have reached your destination when the majestic old walls encircling Dubrovnik stand before you.
So, how can you embark upon this bucket-list experience? Keep reading our Split to Dubrovnik Guide to find out!
About Dubrovnik
After you drive from Split to Dubrovnik, you'll notice that Dubrovnik isn't a significant metropolis. In fact, it's not even in the top ten largest cities in Croatia. The region has a population shy of 42,000 residents spread across 54 square miles near the Bosnian and Montenegrin frontiers. Despite its size, every nook and cranny has a story to tell.
### Beginning of Dubrovnik
The history of Dubrovnik starts in the 7th century. Refugees fleeing persecution, particularly the Slav and Avar sacks of Epidaurus, came together to form a town named Ragusa, which eventually became Dubrovnik.
It quickly developed into a powerful maritime and mercantile hub due to its strategic location on the Adriatic coast.
### Dubrovnik's Growth
The city started to prosper, and its reputation thrived between the 9th and 12th centuries. The key reason for its uplight was the ruling Byzantine Empire taking advantage of the recently failing Roman Empire.
In the 14th century, Dubrovnik started to take shape as you know it today. During this period, the Old Walls surrounding the city were built, and once the area was sold to the public of Venice, it became a hotbed for culture and learning.
### Dubrovnik's Recent History
After seeing Turkish invasions, Napoleonic rule, and Austrian-Hungarian rule, Dubrovnik fell into the hands of Yugoslavia after WWI. However, after only seven decades, the nation split in 1992 with a sour and blood-soaked ending.
Millions of locals died in wars, and Dubrovnik underwent substantial damage. Fortunately, with EU funding and the millions of tourists visiting the area annually, the city has been restored, and it's as beautiful as the day it was built.
The fairytale-like fortified town on the sea is so magical that it was used as the filming location for King's Landing in Game of Thrones. This pop-culture explosion cemented Dubrovnik as the place to visit for anyone who wants to step into Westeros.
From Split to Dubrovnik: Travel Tips
Driving from Split to Dubrovnik isn't an ordinary venture from A to B. It's one of the most surreal experiences in Europe. Make the most of this opportunity with these insider travel tips!
Get Insider Knowledge
Dubrovnik's Mediterranean climate and astonishing architecture attract millions of tourists. As a result, the city unfortunately suffers from overtourism. There are some tourist traps and unauthentic eateries dotted along the main streets.
Although DaytripтАЩs drivers aren't tour guides, they are locals. Take advantage of their knowledge so you can travel like a local and uncover several hidden gems where residents eat and drink.
### Book Your Transportation in Advance
Split and Dubrovnik are some of the most sought-after tourist cities worldwide. And with a border crossing with Bosnia, getting from the mainland to an enclave isn't straightforward.
The bus, train, and private transfers often sell out in advance. If you book more than four weeks in advance, you'll also receive early bird deals!
### Consider the Weather
The average summer temperature in Dubrovnik is 82┬░ Fahrenheit. First things first, be sure to book transportation with quality air conditioning!
Even with AC, the sun's rays will enter through the windows, which could cause sunburn. Have easy access to sunscreen to combat this issue. In addition, don't forget to fill up your water bottle!
### Stop for Sightseeing
When you book a ride with Daytrip, you're not just treating yourself to the most convenient way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik. You have complete control over your trip, which means you can stop for sightseeing at some of the most iconic destinations in the Balkans, including Klis Fortress, another Game of Thrones filming location, Mostar and its iconic bridge, or Ston, where you'll find "The Great Wall of Europe".
How to Get From Split to Dubrovnik
Many visitors in Croatia wonder how to get from Split to Dubrovnik and how far the distance is by car. Fortunately, our professional drivers and travel experts can answer all those questions and more.
Flight from Split to Dubrovnik
A flight has the fastest travel time from Split to Dubrovnik. Croatia Airlines offers a speedy journey that will take you south in only 35 minutes.
However, add in having to get to and from the airport, going through security checks, boarding, and waiting in lines and the actual travel time is more like 3.5 hours. Considering the road distance from Split to Dubrovnik is only 142 miles, flying isn't worth it for such a short trip.
### Bus from Spilt to Dubrovnik
The bus is the most affordable way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik. It's also the most popular route. Many backpackers opt for this mode of transportation as it offers an efficient, no-frills voyage.
Flixbus is the most in-demand bus company, with up to six direct buses departing daily. Since it's subject to border crossing, the journey can take up to four hours. The latest bus departs Split at 6:45 p.m., while the earliest leaves at 2:35 a.m.
Although this is a budget-friendly option, you will find extra legroom, charging outlets, and restrooms. Most buses also provide free Wi-Fi.
### Ferry from Split to Dubrovnik
Imagine watching the Dalmatian Coast flash by as the wind brushes through your hair. You take a sip of an ice-cold beer while you bake under the Mediterranean sun and capture endless videos to make your friends back home jealous.
A ferry from Split to Dubrovnik will make this dream come true. For a ticket priced from тВм45 to тВм60, you can set sail on the 6-hour journey from SpiltтАЩs central pier!
### Daytrip from Split to Dubrovnik
Daytrip will get you from your address in Split directly to your new one in Dubrovnik in only 3 hours and 10 minutes. Not only is this the fastest way to travel, but it's also the most convenient. You don't have to worry about reaching designated departure points or dragging luggage through the cobbled paths. Our door-to-door service manages all of the headaches of traveling and gives you more time to explore this breathtaking city.
However, the most compelling reason to choose Daytrip is the optional sightseeing opportunities. Explore the thrill-seeking city of Mostar or relax in the Rizman Winery so you don't have to backtrack and cut into your precious Dubrovnik vacation time.
Things to Do When You Get to Dubrovnik
When you travel from Split to Dubrovnik by car, you'll instantly notice how popular the area is. For every local, 36 visitors are in town! In general, you'll be following the crowds when it comes to the best things to do when you get to Dubrovnik.
### See Dubrovnik From Above
The Dubrovnik Cable Car will take you from ground level to over 2500 feet above the city in less than seven minutes. From above, you can admire the orange-tinted roofs of the old town, the lush green nature, and the light blue waters of the sea.
If you can take your eyes away from the stunning scenes, visit the Panorama Restaurant and Bar. Indulge in local cuisine with a handcrafted cocktail as the sun drops below the horizon.
### Walk the Old City Walls
Dubrovnik isn't a budget-friendly spot. However, if there's one place you must splash the cash, it's a tour of the Old City Walls! Full-price adult tickets cost тВм35, but the views and historical knowledge you'll learn are invaluable.
The walls stretch for over a mile, where you can spot sights such as:
- Minceta Tower
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Lokrum Island
- St. John Fortress
You're free to roam in the footsteps of previous historical leaders or learn more with a guided tour.
### Take Day Trips to Lokrum Island
The short 14-minute sea voyage makes Lokrum Island in demand for day trips. The land offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Explore its lush botanical gardens, walk along scenic trails, and relax on secluded beaches. Dubrovnik is home to dozens of sandy and rocky shores, but you'll find the pick of the bunch here!
You can also visit attractions, such as the ruins of a Benedictine monastery. This medieval fort also houses a botanical garden with exotic plants and peacocks roaming freely.
### Take a Game of Thrones Tour
If you're a Game of Thrones fan, put its tour at the top of your travel inventory!
The two-hour tour departs three times daily from May to November at 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 4:00 PM. Walking the streets will feel like youтАЩre experiencing D├йj├а Vu. Your guide will bring you to all the spots on millions of TVs worldwide!
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
July and August are the most popular times to drive from Split to Dubrovnik. It's unquestionably one of the hottest European summer destinations. But the compact city with narrow streets is often overcrowded during this time.
Instead, the best time to visit Dubrovnik is in the spring. Temperatures are most pleasant for spending time outside. There are fewer crowds and more attractive tour deals. Also, you can enjoy some of Croatia's best cultural events, including the Dubrovnik Music Fest and Bavarin, a mouthwatering food festival!
Alternatively, September and October are also great times to visit Dubrovnik. Temperatures start to cool, and the quieter streets allow you to explore freely.
Although its television debut has made it well known, this ancient fortress is still a gem with plenty of space to wander.┬аThe City of Meereen from Game of Thrones┬а
Mostar
This charming riverside town is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Old Bridge (Stari Most), the Balkans' most celebrated span.┬аA crossroads of culture┬а
Medjugorje
While its name means 'between the hills', this small village is a sacred destination for millions of pilgrims.┬аA spiritual destination┬а
Rizman Winery
This winery offers a unique gateway to South Croatian winemaking and traditions this great craft entails.
┬аDalmatia's Liquid Gold┬а
Ston
In the Southern Dalmatian region of Croatia, unbeknownst to many due to size, lies a city with an impressive defensive wall nicknamed тАЬThe European Wall of ChinaтАЭ.┬аThe European Wall of China┬а
Arboretum Trsteno
The oldest arboretum in the world has weathered war, fire, and Game of Thrones.┬аAn Ancient Verdant Escape┬а
тАЬThe trip from Dubrovnik to Split was excellent! A relaxing way to get to Split and see some sights along the way without being rushed. Thank you for giving us a female driver, Tatjiana was lovely as a person and a safe, great driver. She engaged us in conversation and was knowledgeable about the area. And she also helped get our passports stamped at the Bosnia Herzegovina border. The stop along the way choices were good and interesting. I think an hour in Ston is a good amount, 30 minutes not enough. The Rizman Winery was a great stop for wine tasting and lunch and view! (need to book the experience directly with the winery) Mostar was also interesting and great for a coffee break. There are activities to do on the river (separate from DayTrip) which we didn't know about, so definitely do some research and check out those options if it's a hot day.тАЭ
тАЬLast minute decision and we decided to use Daytrip for our travel from Dubrovnik to Split. It was excellent response time confirming our reservation. Driver (Antonio) was awesome, car was very comfortable and clean, and we felt very safe! We will definitely use this service in our future travel.тАЭ
тАЬThe trip was excellent. The communication was clear and easy to understand, and timely. Our driver was great, easy
to speak with (English was excellent), knowledgable, car was clean, felt safe and well cared for. I wouldnтАЩt hesitate to use Daytrip again!тАЭ
тАЬWe made a trip from Dubrovnik to Split.
The service was more than amazing! Better than traveling on a bus, you make stops and continue visiting amazing places.
Slaven, our driver, was super kind, helpful and the best driver.
The van was big, with AC, water, super clean and comfortable.
The stop in Medjugorje was incredible too.
The attention before our trip via mail was clear and helpful
I highly recommend this service for sure!тАЭ
тАЬWe absolutely loved the service provided by Daytrip and have already recommended it to friends/family and plan on using it again on future Europe road trips. We used the service twice from Split to Dubrovnik and then Dubrovnik to Kotor.
The flexibility to pick our own schedule without having to plan around train/plane times and not having to be bothered with the hassles inherent in driving ourselves in a foreign country makes traveling easy.┬а I was impressed with the company before even leaving home. The booking process on the site was simple. I merely selected the desired to-and-from cities at the times that were convenient for us and a beautiful itinerary instantly showed up with the cost for our family of four. I communicated with the company several times before the trip regarding schedule changes, traveling with our babies, and adding stops. My emails were always promptly responded to. Our driver from Split to Dubrovnik with a stop in Mostar was Sini┼бa.┬аHe was fabulous. He had clearly been a tour guide for many years as he had a vast knowledge of the area and the tourist industry. He was timely, gave wonderful recommendations, was very friendly, reliable, patient with our babies, and had an apparent love for Croatia. We felt so blessed to be able to spend the day with him. We would love to see more of Croatia with Sinisa in the future.
We booked Daytrip again from Dubrovnik to Kotor with a stop at a winery, and yet again, the service was fabulous. Our driver, Dejan M. was fabulous. He was timely, friendly, patient with our babies, and provided an excellent service as we changed cities.
Daytrip went above and beyond for us before and during our trip. I am so glad this service is available.тАЭ
тАЬDrive from Split to Dubrovnik with multiple stops along the way was fantastic!
Our driver went beyond the call of duty to talk to us about the local
culture and share insights into life in the countries we visited.
It really made for a really special day.
The driver and service was VERY RESPONSIVE to agenda questions and updates. Our driver was such a talented and professional human.
This was the best part of our trip to this magical land!!тАЭ
тАЬFantastic and reliable service. Mario, my driver picked me up on time and we had a fantastic/comfortable ride to Split stopping along the way at Mostar and Makarska. Lovely guy, polite and friendly. He opened the door upon pickup and drop off at stops and also helped me with my luggage. Definitely will be using mydaytrip again in the future and would highly recommend Mario as the driver. Great way to travel. Top serviceтАЭ
тАЬBooked a private car from Split to Dubrovnik in late July. Booking online was easy. Immediate confirmation via email. Company was responsive to follow up information. Was contacted by my driver via text message the day before the trip. On day of trip, driver arrived on time. Drive was safe and smooth. Would highly recommend.тАЭ
