Private car transfer from Split to Dubrovnik

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!

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.

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".

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 €45 to €60, you can set sail on the 6-hour journey from Spilt’s 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.

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 €35, 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 you’re experiencing Déjà Vu. Your guide will bring you to all the spots on millions of TVs worldwide!

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.