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Overview: car trip from Ljubljana to Split
A car trip from Ljubljana to Split brings you from Slovenia's charming capital to a bustling coastal city known for its ancient Mediterranean style and stunning views of the Adriatic. The drive covers a distance of 290 miles (466 km) and takes nearly 5 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore the Balkan landscape!
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!
About Split
Split boasts a rich history dating back over 1,700 years. Founded as a Greek colony of Aspálathos around the 2nd or 3rd century BCE, the Roman Emperor Diocletian eventually made it his retirement palace in the early 4th century CE. The construction of Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marked the beginning of Split's urban development.
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.
From Ljubljana to Split: travel tips
If you've made the trip from Ljubljana to Split before, things may look a bit different from the last time you traveled. Get up to date on the border and currency changes, and ensure a smooth trip with our travel tips.
### 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.
How to get from Ljubljana to Split
You have several travel options when choosing how to get from Ljubljana to Split. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Take into account how much luggage you have, your timeline, and your comfort level for the best experience possible.
Ljubljana to Split by private driver with Daytrip
Daytrip's private car service is the fastest and easiest way to travel from Ljubljana to Split. Along with the comfort of a private car, Daytrip offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore scenic national parks and smaller cities along the way. The drive takes approximately 5 hours, which leaves plenty of daylight for seeing the national parks and towns in between Ljubljana and Split. This region has so many rich cultural touchpoints that it is best to take advantage of the opportunities to see them on your drive, and as a bonus, unlike a bus, you can stretch your legs whenever you need!
### 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.
Things to do when you get to Split
You’ve seen the beauty of Croatia’s inland on your drive from Ljubljana to Split, but now is time to enjoy the coast. Check out these must-see activities in Split!
### 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!
When is the best time to visit Split
Split is sunny and breezy year-round, but summer can be absolutely brutal in Split, with highs of 90°F (32°C) and little respite with nighttime temperatures. Summer is also when the largest crowds descend on the city.
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.
Daytrip es la forma más conveniente de experimentar más de 14.800 ciudades alrededor del mundo.
Todo viajero merece una visión real de las culturas de los países que visita. Y cada lugar increíble en la Tierra merece ser visitado y apreciado. Creemos que el conocimiento local único y la conexión humana real son insustituibles cuando se trata de comprender verdaderamente otra cultura.
Opiniones verificadas de 1405 viajeros que reservaron esta ruta
9 oct 2025
"Great trip/drive. Vinko did a great job, had lots of great visit suggestions/locations for Split & Dubornik. He’s a 10."
Steve L.
United States
2 oct 2025
"Josko is a 10/10 driver!
During our ride, he was friendly, knowledgeable, and very accommodating. He provided the trip with lots of information and helpful tips for maximizing our stay in Split. I was able to ask him about foods I should try, day trips to take, and about some of the historical sites I was going to see. I also appreciated his punctuality.
But most importantly, he was a very safe driver."
Taylor M.
United States
1 oct 2025
"Antonio was a great driver. He was right on time and got us to our destination timely and safely. He also seemed to be a good guy"
Babara R.
United States
28 sept 2025
"Terrific experience with our driver Andelko. Reached on time, had a lovely, clean and comfortable car for the journey. He was also knowledgeable and engaging. "
Mukul R.
India
18 sept 2025
"Our driver, Marcus, was excellent — a fine driver, very knowledgeable, personable, and interesting to speak with. We will definitely use Daytrip again. "
Marshall B.
United States
7 nov 2024
"We had an amazing journey and Dejan was informative and full of information about the areas we passed through. Excellent experience."
Steve B.
United States
5 oct 2024
"We thoroughly enjoyed our long day with Tatjana. She was pleasant, professional and keen to answer our questions. We enjoyed our trip with her very much. L
"
Sue D.
Australia
15 sept 2024
"Using DayTrip was a great choice for us. We made a stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This was the easiest way for us to see this beautiful National Park. Our driver Mateo was pleasant and professional. The car was very comfortable!"
Lynn O.
United States
17 ago 2024
"We had a fantastic experience thank you. The service from start to finish was excellent. Our driver was very prompt, polite and helpful - he was in touch with both the hotel we were leaving and the one we were travelling to which made our journey so relaxed. The stop at the Plitvice Lakes was lovely and enough time.
"
Leonie L.
United Kingdom
20 jun 2024
"Boren was excellent! Good driver. He gave us a lot of history and information on all the regions. We would recommend him and the trip to our friends.
"
Michael M.
United States
10 jun 2024
"Our drive from Ljubljana to Split with Zelijko was wonderful. He was on time and the journey was safe and comfortable!
We would highly recommend Zelijko and DayTrip anytime!
"
Ivy H.
Canada
30 may 2024
"Our trip with Goran to Split was great! He was easy to chat with, told us interesting stories and was a great driver! We are very happy with our use of Daytrip!"
Lara B.
United States
14 nov 2023
"We were very satisfied with all aspects of our trip from Ljubljana to Split. I honestly have no suggestions for improvements in any area. Our driver Pavle did an excellent job. Thank you for such great service.
Chuck"
Charles O.
United States
27 sept 2023
"We thoroughly enjoyed our driver Ivan’s company on our drive from Ljubljana to Split. We were engaged in great conversation with him and he was attentive to our comforts and needs. Nothing was too much trouble for him, from the toilet stops we needed and finding us a suitable lunch stop. His vehicle was clean and comfortable and he was a very safe and courteous driver. He is a credit to your great company! "
John S.
New Zealand
29 jun 2023
"Hi, I can not say enough about our driver Balint. He was absolutely wonderful. He was polite, easy to talk to and was very interested in us. He helped us find our hotel in Split when we had no Wifi. I would not hesitate to recommend your services to my friends.
"
Kevin W.
Australia
14 jun 2023
"We were really pleased with our recent day trip. Goran was very prompt, personable and happy to accommodate us in any way. Thank you for your service
"
Kathryn H.
Australia
24 may 2023
"Andrea was very good. He stopped as two additional places to show us points of interest. He also pointed out interesting facts along the way.
When we got to split he called the accommodation for us so they could meet us and help with our luggage.
Nothing was too much trouble for him. We would highly recommend him. "
Angela C.
Australia
13 may 2023
"Our trip from Ljubljana to Split with Pavle was good. We did feel sorry for Pavle with our complicated pick up and drop off points but he sorted it!
We were also very pleased that he took us along the coast road for some portion of the trip (as apposed to the faster highway) so that we could enjoy the nicer scenery.
Clean car and his English was good. Another enjoyable trip
"
Debra L.
Australia
16 oct 2022
"We were very happy with our driver Andrea Z. We were unable to contact him in Slovenia, to confirm details, as we had issues with our phones. Andrea did contact the hotel the night before to confirm the pick up spot outside the pedestrian zone and the time.
He was prompt, the vehicle was clean and in good repair, he was a good driver, allowed us a bathroom break, contacted our hotel for us to arrange for them to meet us and hand us off safely. We appreciated having water available in the car. The car was smaller than we had been told, but the luggage did all fit."
Erika J.
Canada
12 jul 2022
"Matic M. was great and a very good, safe driver. Beside he was able to help and answer all questions we had during the ride.
We really appreciate Matic as your organization. We highly recommend to our friends about your services thru out global network."
Christine B.
United States
Preguntas y Respuestas sobre Viajar de Ljubljana a Split
Croatia does not have a fully digital vignette system yet for its toll roads. But a full digitalization is planned for late 2024. For now, you will have to pay at the toll road booths by card or with cash.
Yes, but it is not direct. To get to Split by train, you will need to change trains in Zagreb, Rijeka, or another larger city. Trains in Croatia are slower than you may be used to in other countries, but they get the job done. There are even trains with sleeper cars if you would like to travel through the night.
You can get to Split in several ways: by train, by bus, or by car. The drive by car takes about 5 hours, while trains and buses take 7-12 hours. You may find more options during the summer tourist season, but we still recommend booking your bus or train ticket in advance to avoid them selling out. There are no direct flights between these cities.
No, there are currently no direct flights or trains from Ljubljana to Split. You would have to do a layover in Zurich, Frankfurt, or Dusseldorf. The best way to travel directly will be by bus or private car. Buses leave several times a day, with higher frequency in the summer months.
Visita estos lugares en el camino
Parque Nacional de los Lagos de Plitvice
Plitvicka Jezera, or Plitvice Lakes, is a UNESCO listed National Park consisting of 16 lakes interconnected by over 90 waterfalls. Its breathtaking beauty makes it one of the most magnificent natural sights in all of Europe. Croatia's most beautiful natural wonder
Zadar
Inhabited for over two thousand years, Croatia's oldest city is one of the Mediterranean’s most historically interesting towns. Port of Plenty
Parque Nacional Krka
Overflowing with natural beauty, Croatia's seventh national park is also the only one where you can swim! Seven Stunning Scenes
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. The Oldest Adriatic Gem
Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this little island is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The Stone Beauty
Fortaleza de Klis
Although its television debut has made it well known, this ancient fortress is still a gem with plenty of space to wander. The City of Meereen from Game of Thrones
