The 313-mile ride along Croatia's sun-drenched Dalmatian Coast from Rovinj to Split is as breathtaking as it sounds. Turquoise waters caress the rocky shores, clusters of greenery cling to the harsh desert-like hills, and surreal countryside makes Games of Thrones look like a local park feature along almost every square inch of the car trip.
But the journey offers more than just scenery. The balmy breeze from the Adriatic Sea flows through your hair and carries a refreshing scent from its olive growths to your window. The sound of crickets chirping and the salt on your lips from the sea air will ignite your sense of adventure until you depart along Split's palm tree promenade.
Sit back, relax, and pour yourself a drink because you're about to sample the postcard drive from Rovinj to Split and learn the best way to embark on this voyage!
About Split
After a dramatic drive south from Rovinj to Split, you'll arrive at Croatia's second-most populous city. Around 180,000 locals live here, where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea. Although Zagreb is the nation's largest city, Split is the most expansive in the famous Dalmatia region, only a 38-mile drive to the Bosnian frontier.
Split's history began when the Greeks founded the city in the 3rd century BC. The Roman, Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine, and even Austro-Hungarian empires all ruled the city during different periods of its lifetime.
After Yugoslavia collapsed in 1992, Split experienced much urban and industrial growth. Today, it's one of Europe's hottest beach destinations, with countless historic relics dotted throughout its Old Town, attracting almost 1 million visitors annually!
- Official language: Croatian
- Currency: Euro
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Time Zone: GMT+1
- Plug Types: C and F
- Peak Tourist Season: June to September
From Rovinj to Split: Travel Tips
The drive from Rovinj to Split can be an unforgettable five-hour journey, for good or bad reasons. With our insider travel tips, you're sure to experience the best of this Croatian voyage!
Pack Wisely
Croatia is one of the most picturesque nations in Europe. Have your camera ready to capture photos for well-earned Instagram likes. It's also one of the sunniest on the continent, so pack a sunhat, sunglasses, and even sunscreen as the sun's beating rays can penetrate the glass windows.
### Opt for Comfort
The ride from Rovinj to Split will take at least five hours. The last thing you want is to feel irritated, so wear comfortable clothing and select a mode of transportation with plenty of leg space and air conditioning when traveling in the summer. Also, don't forget to wear sturdy shoes to explore stunning sights such as the awe-inspiring Plitvice Lakes National Park!
### Book in Advance
Rovinj and Split are both in-demand destinations by foreign and local travelers. However, due to the distance and rugged landscape, there aren't as many modes of transportation as you'd expect between the cities.
As a result, seats on public transportation are often sold out, especially during the peak summer season. Book early to guarantee a spot at your desired time, and take advantage of the best prices!
How to Get From Rovinj to Split
If you’re looking at how to get from Rovinj to Split, you have four ways you can travel. Each has different benefits, depending on your budget, needs, and preferences. So, discover which is best for you below!
Flight from Rovinj to Split
A flight is the quickest way to get from Rovinj to Split. However, it does mean getting a bus or taxi to the nearby city of Pula, about 35 minutes away.
From Pula, you can catch a direct flight and arrive in Split in around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Since Croatia Airlines operates on this route, you can book seats for as low as €29.99 in the off-season.
The downside to flying is that you'll miss out on the unspoiled vista running through Croatia.
### Ferry from Rovinj to Split
A ferry is a popular way to get from Rovinj to Split. But it does require some hassle.
Since no direct routes are available, you must travel to Pula, 35 minutes south. Next, you can take a 3-hour boat ride to Zadar before switching to a bus or train for 2.5 hours until you arrive in Split.
Although it's not the most convenient, it's undeniably scenic. The expedition can take up to 10 hours and cost you between €80 and €100.
### Bus from Rovinj to Split
Fortunately, the bus is the cheapest way to travel from Rovinj to Split. Unfortunately, you can't get a direct coach from Rovinj to Split. Only indirect services operate along this route.
Flixbus and Arriva connect the two cities, which requires a transfer to either Zagreb or Rijeka.
The shortest ride, including the connection, is 11 hours and 25 minutes, while the average route takes 12 hours. Expect to spend between €50 and €65 for an adult single ticket on one of the three daily departures.
### Daytrip from Rovinj to Split
Daytrip is unquestionably the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Rovinj to Split. Not only is it a direct mode of transportation, but your English-speaking driver will pick you up directly at your address in Rovinj and drop you off at your new one in Split!
If you think five hours in your private vehicle is too long, break up the journey by sightseeing en route! Stretch your legs by wandering the UNESCO-listed old town of Sibenik or unwind in a natural paradise in Krka National Park!
Our flexible schedule means you decide when to leave, and if problems arise, cancel 24 hours before setting off for free! No more worrying about missing your departure time or about travel changes!
Things to Do When You Get to Split
In this seaside city, you'll be able to experience everything from a relaxing day on the beach to an action-packed day of sightseeing. Here are the best things to do when you get to Split after traveling from Rovinj!
Climb Marjan Hill
For panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands, hike or cycle up Marjan Hill. This forested park offers numerous trails, viewpoints, and picnic spots, making it a popular recreational area for locals and visitors. You can also visit the medieval churches dotted throughout the park, encircled by the Mediterranean waters.
### Explore Diocletian's Palace
Diocletian's Palace brought the city of Split to new heights when it was founded in the 3rd century. Today, it attracts visitors from all four corners of the world, and its well-preserved walls don't disappoint.
You'll find plenty of vendors selling handmade goods and local delicacies. And in the warmer months, you can experience live music and cultural preferences within the main square.
### Unwind on the Beach
Vacations are about relaxing in beautiful surroundings and forgetting about the struggles of everyday life. Luckily, Split's stretching coastline has countless beaches, from hidden coves to sprawling golden lanes.
Žnjan Beach is the biggest beach in town, with a rocky surface and nearby amenities, including toilets, cafes, and showers. Beach Trstenik is ideal if you're searching for a quieter space with the locals. Or you can wander Marjan Park until an isolated cove appears to have your own slice of heaven.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Split?
Split is worth a visit at any point of the year. However, due to its immense popularity in the summer, the shoulder seasons are the best time to travel from Rovinj to Split.
When you travel in the spring, you still get the Mediterranean sunshine but avoid the crowds of tourists. The Old Town of Split is over 17 centuries old, so the narrow streets fill up quickly with only a few groups.
Fall is the best time to get the most bang for your buck. As airlines and hotels approach the low season, many offer significant discounts to fill spaces. The more money you save, the more you can put towards cultural tours and the delicious food scene!
The seaside town of Opatija has the longest traditions of tourism in Croatia, dating back to 1844. This year-round resort town is the ideal destination for rest and relaxation. Queen of tourism
Plitvice Lakes National Park
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
Krka National Park
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
"This is the first time we have used daytrip service. To be honest, it is not cheap; but I have to say this trip is worth spending the money for. Teo is the best transfer driver we have ever met. He is so kind and flexible. He treated us water melon in the hot summer. He goes a little mile by treating us like buddies for a road trip. It is a very long drive and we do appreciate it. We are so pleased to have you in our memories of holiday. Thanks so much, Leo. Good luck to you! xxx"
KIN WAI C.
Hong Kong
2024年6月14日
"Our trip from Rovinj to Spit was excellent! Filip was very efficient and very kind, loved a break he recommended with a fabulous view down the coast. Would definitely recommend Daytrip & Filip and will probably book again next year.
"
Barbara B.
United States
2024年6月3日
"We really enjoyed having David as our driver. He shared lots of interesting information - historical, cultural, ideas of things to see - and was very patient when we took longer than we planned at a side trip. He added a lot to our experience, and we would recommend him highly."
Nancy N.
United States
2024年5月18日
"Our trip with Zijliko was faultless. He turned up on time and even though parking was at a premium (there was none) in front of our rooms we managed and left on time.
The car was spotless and of a standard we now expect from Daytrip. Our driver was professional and informative. Never making a mistake and drove safely. We learnt many historical and other facts about the country we drove through. The scenery was outstanding and interesting. It was a wonderful day.
We look forward to future trips with Daytrip."
Phil S.
Australia
2024年5月9日
"Everything was done with the highest quality. Excellent communication, comfortable and clean vehicles and prompt service.
An unexpected highlight for us was our driver, Mladen B., for both legs of the journey. He was exceptionally pleasant and helpful. But even beyond that we had very interesting and informative conversations with Mladen which turned out to be a highpoint of our trip.
Thank you for providing an excellent service and employing such a wonderful young man."
David S.
United States
2019年9月4日
"Our driver Boren was amazing. A wonderful young man who gave us excellent information. He was on time and we enjoyed our drive with him, both times."
Joanne L.
2019年7月25日
"Hi Marketa,
Our drive and our driver was excellent!
He got us exactly where we needed to be on
time for our ferry, was very helpful, friendly and a fine driver
Thank you
Marc
"
Marc S.
2019年6月14日
"The trip was great. Luka helped us make appropriate changes to our plans. He was an excellent driver and provided information on the way. Five Star Service!!!
I will continue to recommend to our friends the use of DayTrip. The Web Site is great too.
We are satisfied clients and will use you again.
Jim "
James B.
United States
2019年5月28日
"We were happy with the whole experience. Andrei not only provided us with a comfortable ride but also with much information which he provided in response to our questions. He was flexible and happy to stop when requested for sightseeing as well as for comfort stops. Despite being well over his scheduled time, he helped us find our accommodation at our destination. He was professionally dressed and the car was spacious, comfortable and clean."
DONALD R.
2018年10月14日
"Hi, Marketa –
Our experiences with all our drivers were sterling. Each went out of their way to help us find the right destination And, each patiently and enthusiastically answered our many questions about the part of the world we were visiting for the first time, making us feel welcome.
Thanks for helping make our vacation wonderful!
Best regards,
Graham"
Graham S.
2018年9月17日
"Hi Marketa
Thank you for your message. The trip was great -Matic was a very professional driver, very calm and careful in all situations. He was always polite, courteous and helpful. He was punctual in coming to collect us.When we arrived in Split and were uncertain that we were at the right address, he checked for us, even calling the apartment owner and speaking to him on our behalf. I will certainly recommend your service to any friends travelling in the region, based on our experience.
I really don’t think there is anything the company can do to improve your service. It was very good!
Best wishes
Di"
Diane H.
2018年9月11日
"Hi Lathrop
We very much enjoyed Robert as well as he was accommodating in every which way, pleasant and we thoroughly enjoyed our time with him.
Both drivers represented the company very well and we will continue to use your service.
Glenda "
Barbara P.
United States
2018年8月27日
"Bozidar was wonderful as well. Much more than a driver, he took his responsibilities as a tour guide very seriously. He made the long journey pleasant and informative. "
Olivier S.
United States
2018年6月25日
"Hi,
All drivers did a good job! We never had problems
with them. All were polite and courteous.
We will continue to patronize OnDaytrip.
Thank you.
Dr Garcia "
Antonio G.
2018年6月1日
"The trip was wonderful. Milan was an excellent driver and tour host! Enjoyed talking to him and hearing about his travels!
"
Eugene M.
United States
2018年7月17日
"We used your drivers to go from Budapest to Rovinj, Croatia and then from Rovinj to Split. My wife Laura and I were absolutely pleased with both of our drivers and would use your services again. Thanks!
"
Ray M.
2018年7月7日
"Our driver was no Josip - it was another young man - who was polite, and efficient. He got us to our destinations in appropriate time, and was kind enough to make communication with our hotel in Split which alleviated pressure on our part. While it is an expensive service for just two people, it was well worth it for us. Thank you!!
"
