Private car transfer from Ljubljana to Split

After you depart Ljubljana, a quick trip into nature may be exactly what you need in between your visits to cities. Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are the crown jewels of the Croatian natural landscape and are definitely worth the stop. Both parks have beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and forested areas. Your Daytrip driver can take you right to these national parks, which would be difficult to visit if you travel via train or bus. Also make a stop in the historic city of Zadar to explore its Roman ruins, medieval churches, and unique Sea Organ and Sun Salutation art installations along the waterfront promenade. Start your unforgettable journey off right with a little bit of research and the help of Daytrip!

In the following centuries, Split was ruled by various empires, including Roman, Byzantine, Dalmatian, Venetian, and Ottoman. It was an important center of trade, culture, and administration in the region.

During the medieval period, Split became part of the Kingdom of Croatia and later the Venetian Republic. In the 15th century, it fell under Ottoman rule for a brief period before being recaptured by the Venetians.

In the 19th century, Split became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It underwent significant urbanization and modernization during this time. After World War I, Split became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and later the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, and eventually Croatia. Once you arrive, you’ll see why Split has been fought over for so long!

Modern Split

Today Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and a major ferry port for traveling to Italy, the islands of Hvar, Brač, and Vis, and other destinations on the Adriatic Sea. Since the Yugoslav Wars, it has experienced economic growth, tourism development, and cultural revitalization while still preserving its rich historical heritage. It is the largest city on Croatia’s 1,100-mile (1,777 km) coastline.

Film lovers will recognize Split immediately: it has been the backdrop for famous shows and movies like Game of Thrones, Twilight: Breaking Dawn, and even the classic western Winnetou. Almost a million people visit Split every year for its sunny beaches, access to the islands, and Mediterranean vibes, so it is no wonder it is also popular in the film industry.

There are fewer border controls now

If you have taken this route before, then you may remember having to wait at the Slovenian-Croatian border for inspection. The good news is those days are over. In January 2023, Croatia became a Schengen zone member, so now you can travel between Slovenia and Croatia without border checks, just like any other EU country.

Croatia now uses the Euro

It's important to note that Croatia switched to the Euro recently and does not use the Kuna anymore. However, during the transitional period, you may see prices displayed in both Euros and Kunas as people are still getting used to the exchange rates. If you have remaining Kunas from previous trips, you'll need to exchange them through FINA, as many banks stopped performing Kuna exchange services in 2023.

Expect shops to close for a mid-afternoon break

The further south you go down the Croatian coast, the culture gets more Mediterranean. If you are visiting in the summer, you may find that during the hottest hours of the day, shops are closed.

Ljubljana to Split by bus

To travel from Ljubljana to Split by bus, you can take a direct bus operated by various companies. The direct journey typically takes from 8 to 10 hours and buses usually have restrooms on board, or stop regularly for breaks. Buses depart from Ljubljana's main bus station and arrive at Split's main bus terminal, making it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

Ljubljana to Split by train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains from Ljubljana to Split due to the geographical constraints of this mountainous region. To reach Split, you need to take a train to Zagreb or Rijeka, then transfer to a bus or train to Split. These transfers make train travel less convenient and slower than other options.

Leap back in time in the Historical Complex of Split

Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognize the Diocletian's Palace, the heavily fortified retirement palace for the Roman emperor Diocletian. This palace was also featured on the back of the 500 Kuna banknote. Within the UNESCO-listed historical complex is the 8th-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius. It is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that remains in use in its original structure. When it was originally built as the Mausoleum of Diocletian, in 305 AD, it was also the second oldest structure used by any Christian cathedral.

Have a coffee on the Riva Promenade

Stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, cafes, and restaurants, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Split's main gathering place. Croatia has a rich coffee-drinking culture, so one essential element of your trip will be sipping a_ kava s mlijekom_ (coffee with milk) on an outdoor patio and watching the world go by. Too hot for coffee? Have a gelato!

Hike Marjan Hill

Take a leisurely hike or bike ride through the lush forests of Marjan Hill. There are several scenic viewpoints, hidden chapels, and tranquil picnic spots. This park juts out into the Adriatic Sea at the end of the Split Peninsula and is a peaceful place to admire the local nature amid Split’s hustle and bustle.

Dance the night away

Split has an excellent nightlife scene, and most bars and restaurants are open late into the night. The warm nights are perfect for going dancing, having cocktails on rooftop bars, and enjoying techno, pop, and EDM. Ultra Europe is a 3-day EDM event held annually in July that draws in musical talent and fans from all over the world.

Take a day trip to the islands

Split is a hub for ferry trips to the far reaches of the Adriatic Sea. Hop on a ferry and explore the nearby islands of Hvar, Brač, or Vis, known for their picturesque beaches, charming villages, and historic sites. The beaches in Croatia tend to be stony, not sandy, so bring good water shoes. The clear water and rocky coastlines have nooks and crannies for animals to live, so bring (or rent) a mask and snorkel!

Beat the heat and crowds and still get perfect weather by visiting Split between March-June and September-November. In spring, attend events that celebrate Easter or the Days of Diocletian, which commemorates Split's Roman heritage with reenactments, theater performances, and exhibitions. If you’re visiting in November, St. Martin’s Day is celebrated with goose and young wine, the perfect excuse to try local cuisine.