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Overview: Car trip from Venice to Split
Since 1987, Venice in Italy has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's easy to see why it was given this honor, considering it is a glittering city filled with beautiful art and architecture, evocative bridges and canals, and a renowned lagoon. If its beauty draws you in, you're among the many visitors who are fascinated and captivated by Venice yearly.
Yet, Venice is not the only city worth visiting in Europe, so if you've found yourself in this illustrious city, it might be time to consider a car trip with Daytrip from Venice to Split, in Croatia. Split might not have the gondolas, museums, and churches that Venice has, but it is a captivating destination that is renowned for its shimmering Adriatic sea views, iconic palaces, ancient architecture, and lively attractions.
There are many awe-inspiring sites to see along the way when traveling with Daytrip from Venice in Italy to Split. For example, when you book with our private door-to-door service, you can stop and visit wondrous places like the Basilica di Aquileia, Miramare Castle, Kastav, and Sibenik. So what are you waiting for? Book with Daytrip and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime and an adventure unlike any other in Split!
About Split
Split's foundations were laid nearly 17 centuries ago when the Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build himself a palace on the peninsula near Salona, an established Roman city at the time. Split was never meant to become a city, but the palace drew travelers, and during the 1700s, it slowly became a city.
Today, Split is thriving and continues to draw in eager travelers anticipating a glimpse of the city's glorious history, rich tradition, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Lying on the Adriatic coast on the Split (Marjan) peninsula, Split is one of Croatia's seaside gems.
The city might be surrounded by the sea, but it's framed by magnificent mountains with Kozjak on the northwest, Mosor on the northeast, and Marjan Hill rising on the west side of the staggeringly beautiful peninsula. The beautiful Solta, Hvar, Brac, and Ciovo islands also surround Split.
Natural beauty aside, Split has many historical layers from the Middle Ages to today that are still visible. A walk through the city will show you tales of the past with the city's ancient feel. Not to mention its untold stories can be seen in alleyways, across cobbled streets, in the reflections of mirrored buildings, in the scents that flow from hole-in-the-wall eateries, and from the ancient buildings, baroque facades, Romanesque churches, Renaissance homes, and attractions that are present throughout the city.
It's a unique and social city with a bustling nightlife and friendly atmosphere. Ultimately, Split has much more to offer travelers, so if you're interested in architecture, ancient history, culture, gourmet experiences, wineries, festivals, and concerts, it's worth visiting.
From Venice to Split: Travel tips
Split is one of the best cities in Croatia to visit if you're interested in a blend of lively atmosphere, lush history, and beautiful modernity. However, to truly enjoy all Split has to offer when traveling from Venice to Split, you must note a few handy travel tips.
Try to avoid the crowds
As one of the most beautiful places on earth, Split sees plenty of crowds, as do many of the other cities and towns along the way. That's why leaving early is crucial when traveling from Venice to Split. By leaving early in the morning or evening with a car service like
Daytrip, you'll avoid many of the annoying crowds that frequent the big attractions and landmarks.
### Driving and parking are difficult
Driving from Venice to Split can be nightmarish if you don't know the winding coastal roads and are visiting during peak season. Fortunately, you get to Split without having to contend with traffic and the roads yourself by using a private car service.
With Daytrip, the drivers know the roads intimately. Not only can they expertly navigate the roads to get you from Venice to Split, but you won't have to worry about parking in Split.
### Capitalize on free attractions
Everybody loves freebies, so why not capitalize on free attractions when traveling from Venice to Split? Not only will you find numerous free attractions along the way that you can stop and visit, but Split itself has a few free gems.
For example, The Jaman Art Gallery is free and displays some of the best art pieces by Croatian artist Danijel Jaman. Then there's the Museum of Croatian Archeological Monuments, where you can view ancient Croatian items like tombs and coins for free!
How to get from Venice to Split
Wondering how to get from Venice to Split? Wonder no more as we've shared a few of the best ways you can travel between these two European cities below:
From Venice to Split by flight
Flying from Venice in Italy to Split in Croatia is possible, but it's more hassle than it's worth because there are no direct flights between these two cities and it's expensive. The very best-case scenario is a 4-hour flight from Venice to Rome and then on to Split.
Add in travel time to and from the airport, and the extra time needed for check-in and security, and you're looking at at least 7 hours. If you're traveling with a group, it's also expensive.
### From Venice to Split by train
One of the more scenic ways to travel is by train, but it is one of the slowest ways to get from Venice to Split. You'll pass through Italy, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia, offering plenty of scenic views through the window. But train travel can take up to 15 hours! Yikes.
A few train companies complete the trip daily, but multiple stops and transfers are required. This is a good option if you're not in a rush and want to spend time at each of the transfer cities.
### From Venice to Split by bus
Traveling by bus isn't everyone's idea of perfect holiday transportation, but if you're on a budget, it might be your best choice. Traveling via bus is the most affordable option, but it is time-consuming, considering the trip from Venice to Split takes anywhere between 12.5 and 16.5 hours. That is a long time to be on a bus with other travelers.
If you decide to travel by bus, the Flixbus company offers three weekly trips, and you can buy tickets online to make sure seats don't sell out.
### From Venice to Split by Ferry
There is no direct ferry from Venice to Split. If you want to travel by ferry, you must catch the Venice ferry to Rovinj, which takes about three hours. From Rovinj, you will then need to take the train to Split. The train ride alone takes around 12 hours to complete.
You'll get to see some of the beautiful scenery, but you'll lose precious hours you could be using to sightsee and explore along the way or in Split itself.
### From Venice to Split by private car service Daytrip
Driving by car from Venice to Split is the only direct option, so itās the fastest way to get to Split and start exploring.
If you use a private car service like Daytrip, you'll also have access to convenient sightseeing stops, friendly drivers who can share travel tips and tricks, and a comfortable ride that allows you to relax before you begin your Croatian adventure.
The trip also won't cost you an arm and a leg since prices start at 154 euros per person and it takes about six hours to drive the distance.
Things to do when you get to Split
Considering its history and location, there are lots of things to do when you get to Split, but it can be tough to narrow down the list. So, if you're traveling from Venice to Split and want to enjoy some of the best attractions this city in Croatia has to offer, have a look below:
### Diocletian's Palace
Split might never have existed if a Roman Emperor hadn't decided to build Diocletian's Palace in 305 AD to live out the last years of his life. If you're into history and want to see one of the grandest palaces in Europe, you'll want to visit Diocletian's Palace in Split.
This palace sits in the historic Old Town of Split, with the city spilling out around it. Many of the palace's buildings have remained intact and are an absolute joy to explore. When visiting, be sure not to miss the cellar, which was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The cellar is where Daenerys kept her 'dragons' while visiting Meereen.
Besides the cellar, have a look-see at the cardo, one of the main streets through the palace, and the Peristyle, the palace's central point.
### Bell Tower
One of the best places to visit when taking a tour of Split is the Bell Tower of the St. Cathedral Domnius. This tower is instantly recognizable from the skyline with its majestic yet dominating presence.
Seeing it from below is a sight you won't soon forget, but climbing to the top is on another level. You'll need to climb over 180 stairs to reach the top of the Bell Tower, but it's worth the effort when you get to view the city, the sea, and Marjan Hill from above.
Pro tip: buy combination tickets to St Dominicus Cathedral, the Bell Tower, and other attractions within the city.
### Marjan Hill
One of the best free things to do in Split is to visit Marjan Hill, a picturesque forested oasis in Old Town in Split. Marjan Hill is an outdoor lover's dream and the perfect place to get in a workout and enjoy one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet. This hill is perfect for hikes, pictures, and views.
You can climb Marjan Hill through a forest hike or stairs. If you make it to the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Split and the sea under the watch of a giant cross and Croatian flag.
When is the best time to visit Split?
Split is one of the few European cities to have a mild climate year-round, but typically, the best time of year to visit is May to June and September and October. During these months, you should expect sunny weather without the blistering temperatures experienced by other Mediterranean cities.
Besides comfortable temperatures, visiting Split during these months also guarantees you'll get deals on accommodation with cheaper hotels and attractions since they are shoulder seasons. In addition to cheap hotels, you can also expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and sea kayaking.
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Questions & Answers about Traveling from Venice to Split
There is no direct ferry ride from Venice to Split. You can take a ferry to Rovinj and then take the train the rest of the way to Split. The trip will be a little over 3.5 hours by ferry and then around 12 hours by train. If you want to take a boat the entire way, you can look into taking a cruise, but this is usually expensive.
The best way to get from Venice to Split is by a private car service like Daytrip. A private car door-to-door service is not only convenient and comfortable but also reliable and safe. With Daytrip, you'll be greeted by a professional driver who knows the many ins and outs of the route from Venice to Split.
There is no direct train from Venice to Split. But you can take a train from Venezia S. Lucia to Split via the Villach Hbf station and the Zagreb Glavni Kol train station. This trip will involve multiple transfers and stopovers and takes about 15.5 hours.
There are many ways to get from Italy to Split Croatia, the most popular being by bus, train, flight, ferry, private car, or a combination of each. A private car service like Daytrip is the only direct way to get from Italy to Split, Croatia.
Visit these sights on the way
Basilica di Aquileia
A relic of one of the greatest cities of the ancient world, the floor of this UNESCO-listed church is the largest Paleochristian mosaic in the western world.Ā Massive MosaicsĀ
Miramare Castle
The beautiful Miramare Castle is located on a cliff high above the sea on the Gulf of Trieste. It is home to a tragic tale and a mysterious curse.Ā A tragic tale breeds a legendĀ
Grotta Gigante
Revel in the rare beauty of nature by exploring this giant Italian cave. Grotta Gigante is deemed the world's largest show cave and is truly magnificent.Ā Underground CathedralĀ
Kastav
Kastav is a tranquil Croatian town just a stoneās throw away from Opatija. The medieval town successfully combines its own historic morals with a contemporary way of life.Ā Hilltop town along the coastĀ
Rocca restaurant
High on a hilltop above Bribir, this archaeological site offers an uninterrupted timeline of Dalmatian civilization across thousands of years.Ā Croatia's Ancient TroyĀ
Sibenik
Unlike cities like Trogir and Hvar, which were founded by outside conquerors, the UNESCO-listed town of Sibenik is the oldest Croatian-founded settlement.Ā The Oldest Adriatic GemĀ
Verified reviews from 920 travelers who booked this route
May 4, 2026
"Sinisa was the best! Very personable and was like a tour guide for our 6.5 hour trip. He made us very comfortable and his conversation made the trip seem to go by fast. My wife even got a little nap. Highly recommend Sini!"
Dallas L.
United States
Oct 8, 2025
"We could not have had a better trip. Our driver was early (as were we) very friendly and helpful with luggage and suggestions. Checked in with us along the way to ask if we needed breaks, offered suggestions for lunch and pointed out special areas along the way."
Jean H.
United States
Sep 18, 2024
"We had a great day stopping off for lunch. It was long but Samir was a lovely person, we enjoyed his company, safe driving as it was a wet day and visibility at times was awful. Credit to Samir for the trip we had.
"
RAYMOND H.
Australia
Sep 15, 2024
"Philip did an excellent job! Very satisfied with our experience. Weād certainly like to use your services again. Thanks!
"
Kevin K.
United States
Aug 6, 2024
"We are very happy with the service. Teo met us right on time, he was very pleasant during the journey and delivered us as expected.
"
Gary R.
New Zealand
Jul 10, 2024
"we loved our driver Filip. It was on time, very friendly and professional and we sincerely enjoyed the time we spent with him during the drive. "
Mike C.
Canada
Apr 29, 2024
"Slaven was great! Highly recommended, very polite, and very professional. We had a mishap on our way and he was so gracious and helpful to us. He had made our trip smooth and also recommended great food for our stops."
Patricia T.
United States
Mar 23, 2024
"Paolo was great. He was entertaining and provided a lot of local history. He was on-time and accommodating. We loved our trip with Paolo."
Ty F.
United States
Oct 4, 2023
"Excellent experience, Diego did a fantastic job, good communication from pick up to end of trip. Pointing out scenery and points of interest along the way. Very safe driver, we felt like being in good hands.
5 out of 5 all the way."
MICHAEL B.
Australia
Sep 29, 2023
""Thank you very much for making the change to an 11am departure. And, for working Diego in for the return.
Everything went well and your company is very professional. The car was very comfortable and also had waters which was appreciated.
Mike R.""
Michael R.
United States
Aug 27, 2023
"Slaven was fantastic. We were not able to go to the caves because I did not book tickets but he was able to recommend another option. We dined at a lovely seatown restaurant."
Tracie K.
United States
Aug 9, 2023
"The drivers were excellent and very helpful. Even when there was an issue with one of the cars they sorted it very quickly and easily.
The large car was a little uncomfortable for the long journey but not too bad.
Overall a great service and easy to use."
Afshin K.
United Kingdom
Aug 9, 2023
"The drivers were excellent and very helpful. Even when there was an issue with one of the cars they sorted it very quickly and easily.
The large car was a little uncomfortable for the long journey but not too bad.
Overall a great service and easy to use."
Afshin K.
United Kingdom
Jul 5, 2023
"It was fantastic. Mladen was an excellent driver, spoke perfect English, was informative about Croatia, and we enjoyed chatting with him. He was very accommodating and just a nice person. The stops we chose were great - Miramar castle and Sibenik."
Lora B.
United States
May 27, 2023
"Hi. Thanks for asking. We thought is was a great service, much better than the short hop flying alternative. The ride was comfortable, Pavle was on time, extremely courteous and a good driver. The route was very scenic and we wouldnāt have had the opportunity to enjoy it if we had travelled by other means. Will definitely consider using it again whenever we do another trip.
Regards Hamish "
Hamish M.
Australia
Aug 8, 2022
"
ļ»æDiego was awesome! Personable and knowledgeable.
The drive was a long one for him and his driving was professional and safe. He went above and beyond to look after us. "
Rick C.
Canada
Aug 2, 2022
" I want to tell you that your Company and Driver rates 5 STARS!! From the meeting at the airport to the drop off at the port, it was first rate. I would recommend you to all of friends and family .
"
Barbara l.
United States
Aug 1, 2022
"Iām writing to let you know that we were so impressed with your service and with Ivan, for driving us from Venice to Split on such short notice. Ivan was on time (in fact, earlier than anticipated which was great!), communicated well and drove safely during the night. We would be grateful if you could please pass on our thanks to Ivan and the team for their service."
Jack C.
Australia
May 27, 2022
"We are very pleased to give a most excellent recommendation and review of daytrip and our driver, Andrea Z. Andrea was a pure professional, he answered so many questions and also offered so much information to us. He made the long drive to Split so enjoyable by pointing out places of interest as well as directing us to one of our favorite places for lunch that we had on our entire four week trip. We would highly recommend Daytrip and even more highly recommend Andrea."
Steven H.
United States
Oct 26, 2021
"We want to thank Andrea for a wonderful drive from Venice through the Croatian countryside. It was a great alternative from airports or bus and train stations.
He was Avery safe driver and was able to get us to the ferry in time for the next ferry trip to Brac from Split.
"
