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Arriving in Split: Comprehensive Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Split? Whether you’re flying in, arriving by ferry, taking a road trip, or hopping on a bus or train, getting to this coastal city is easy and convenient. As the largest city on the Dalmatian coast and a major travel hub, Split is well-connected to domestic and international destinations, making it the perfect starting point for your Croatian adventure.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about arriving in Split, from transportation options and travel routes to essential tips for a smooth journey. Whether you’re landing at Split Airport, sailing across the Adriatic, or driving along Croatia’s scenic highways, we’ll help you navigate your way to this historic city with ease.

By plane - Flying to Split Airport

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Split, especially for international travelers. Split Airport (SPU), officially known as Resnik Airport, is the region’s main airport, serving millions of passengers each year. Located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the city center, it offers a range of domestic and international flights, especially during the peak summer season.

Airlines & Destinations

Split Airport connects travelers to major European cities, with year-round flights from destinations like London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Rome. During the summer, seasonal routes expand significantly, with direct flights from North America and other global locations. Some of the main airlines operating at Split Airport include:

  • Croatia Airlines

  • Ryanair

  • EasyJet

  • Lufthansa, KLM, British Airways, Iberia, and more

Transportation from Split Airport to the City Center

Once you land, there are several ways to get to Split’s city center:

Airport Shuttle Bus

Local Bus (Cheapest Option)

Taxi & Rideshare (Fastest Option)

  • Uber/Bolt fare: ~€25-€35 (depends on traffic and time of the day)

Car Rental (Best for Exploring Beyond Split)

  • Several international and local rental agencies operate at Split Airport
  • Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

By car - Driving to Split

Driving to Split is a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s landscapes at your own pace. Whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Croatia or driving in from neighboring countries, the modern highway network makes reaching Split fast and convenient. Plus, having a car gives you the freedom to explore nearby attractions like Krka National Park, Plitvice Lakes, and the Dalmatian coastline.

From Zagreb to Split (Fastest Route)

This is the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Split from Croatia’s capital. The A1 “Dalmatina” Highway is a well-maintained toll road offering stunning mountain and coastal views.

From Dubrovnik to Split (Scenic Coastal Drive)

  • Distance: 230 km (143 miles)

  • Estimated Drive Time: 3-4 hours

  • Recommended Route: D8 Adriatic Coastal Road OR A1 Motorway via Ploče

  • Here is the route in Google Maps

This breathtaking drive along the D8 Adriatic Highway offers incredible sea views but is slower due to winding roads. For a faster option, take the A1 motorway via Ploče. Note that you’ll pass through a short border crossing in Neum (Bosnia & Herzegovina)—so carry your passport.

From Italy/Slovenia to Split (European Travelers)

  • Venice to Split: ~7 hours (550 km / 342 miles)

  • Ljubljana to Split: ~5.5 hours (460 km / 285 miles)

  • Most travelers enter Croatia via the Rupa or Macelj border crossings and take the A1 motorway south toward Split.

Road Rules & Driving Tips in Croatia

  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on open roads, 130 km/h on highways.
  • Toll Roads: Payment by cash, credit card, or ENC electronic toll system.
  • Headlights: Must be on during winter months (Nov–Mar), even during the day.
  • Alcohol Limit: 0.5‰ for drivers over 25; 0.0‰ for younger or professional drivers.
  • Emergency Number: call 112 .

By bus - Affordable & Scenic Travel

Traveling to Split by bus is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to reach the city, especially for travelers coming from other Croatian destinations or neighboring countries. The Split Main Bus Station is centrally located right next to the ferry port and train station, making onward travel easy.

Bus Travel Within Croatia

Split is well connected to major Croatian cities with frequent and affordable bus services.

Zagreb to Split (Most Popular Route)

  • Duration: 4.5 – 6 hours

  • Ticket Price: €20 – €35

  • Operators: Croatia Bus, FlixBus, Arriva

Buses between Zagreb and Split run almost every hour. They offer comfortable seats, air conditioning, and power outlets on most services.

Dubrovnik to Split (Scenic Coastal Route)

  • Duration: 4 – 5.5 hours

  • Ticket Price: €18 – €30

  • Operators: Promet Makarska, FlixBus, Croatia Bus

This beautiful Adriatic coastal journey takes a bit longer than driving but is much cheaper than flying. Note: The route passes through the Neum Corridor (Bosnia & Herzegovina), so carry your passport for border checks.

Zadar to Split (Fast & Frequent)

  • Duration: 2 – 3 hours

  • Ticket Price: €10 – €18

  • Operators: Arriva, FlixBus, Autotrans

Zadar is just a short ride from Split, making it an easy connection for travelers coming from northern Dalmatia.

International Bus Routes to Split

Split also has direct international bus connections to several European cities, including:

  • Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina (4 – 5 hours, €20 – €30)

  • Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina (6 – 7 hours, €25 – €40)

  • Ljubljana, Slovenia (7 – 9 hours, €30 – €50)

  • Vienna, Austria (11 – 13 hours, €45 – €70)

  • Munich, Germany (14 – 16 hours, €60 – €90)

Most international buses are operated by FlixBus, Croatia Bus, and Globtour, offering overnight journeys to save on accommodation.

Split Main Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Split)

This station is within walking distance of major tourist attractions, hotels, and the Riva Promenade. From here, you can also easily connect to ferries for island hopping.

By ferry

Split is a major port on Croatia’s Adriatic coast, making ferry travel a scenic way to arrive. While there are international ferries from Italy (Ancona–Split), most ferry routes serve Croatia’s islands rather than long-distance travel. If you’re coming from another country, flying or taking a bus may be more convenient.

However, if you’re island-hopping, Jadrolinija and other ferry operators provide frequent connections between Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula, and more, making Split an excellent hub for exploring the Dalmatian coast. Check ferry schedules in advance, especially during peak summer months.

  • Ferry Routes:
    • Domestic routes connect Split to islands like Hvar, Brač, and Korčula.
    • International ferries link Split with Ancona, Italy.
  • Travel Tips:
    • Arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure, earlier for international ferries.
    • Pack essentials for longer ferry rides, like water, snacks, and sunscreen.

By train

Although Croatia has a railway network, train travel to Split is quite limited. There is only one direct train from Zagreb, which takes about 6–7 hours, making buses a much faster and more comfortable option. There are no direct international train connections to Split, so if you’re traveling from abroad, it’s usually better to fly or take a bus from major Croatian cities.

That said, if you enjoy scenic routes, the train from Zagreb offers a picturesque ride through Croatia’s countryside. Just be sure to check timetables, as services are not as frequent as other transport options.

  • Routes:
    • Daily trains connect Split with Zagreb and other Croatian cities.
  • Scenery:
    • The journey offers picturesque views of the countryside and coastal landscapes.
  • Travel Tips:
    • No Wi-Fi onboard, so download entertainment ahead of time.
    • Purchase tickets at the station or online in advance during busy travel seasons.