The car trip from Split to Dubrovnik captures everything you imagine about Croatia. Golden beaches sprawl along the sun-drenched shores, and historical monuments, a reminder of the nation's rich yet bloody history, dot every mile. Stunning scenery that looks suspiciously like the set of Game of Thrones sparks a sense of adventure, which is heightened by the opportunities of taking a door-to-door service.
This unforgettable 142-mile drive begins from the moment you set off. The palm-lined promenade is just a view in your rear mirror, and a postcard-perfect view of the Croatian countryside is painted before you. As you begin moving south, you become sandwiched between the refreshing turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea and the rustic Mosor Mountains.
As you continue admiring the landscape, you feel transported back in time. You'll pass through quaint villages with terracotta roofs and vineyards still seemingly using traditional methods to farm delicious olives, grapes, and fruits. After a brief border crossing with Bosnia, you'll know you have reached your destination when the majestic old walls encircling Dubrovnik stand before you.
So, how can you embark upon this bucket-list experience? Keep reading our Split to Dubrovnik Guide to find out!
About Dubrovnik
After you drive from Split to Dubrovnik, you'll notice that Dubrovnik isn't a significant metropolis. In fact, it's not even in the top ten largest cities in Croatia. The region has a population shy of 42,000 residents spread across 54 square miles near the Bosnian and Montenegrin frontiers. Despite its size, every nook and cranny has a story to tell.
### Beginning of Dubrovnik
The history of Dubrovnik starts in the 7th century. Refugees fleeing persecution, particularly the Slav and Avar sacks of Epidaurus, came together to form a town named Ragusa, which eventually became Dubrovnik.
It quickly developed into a powerful maritime and mercantile hub due to its strategic location on the Adriatic coast.
### Dubrovnik's Growth
The city started to prosper, and its reputation thrived between the 9th and 12th centuries. The key reason for its uplight was the ruling Byzantine Empire taking advantage of the recently failing Roman Empire.
In the 14th century, Dubrovnik started to take shape as you know it today. During this period, the Old Walls surrounding the city were built, and once the area was sold to the public of Venice, it became a hotbed for culture and learning.
### Dubrovnik's Recent History
After seeing Turkish invasions, Napoleonic rule, and Austrian-Hungarian rule, Dubrovnik fell into the hands of Yugoslavia after WWI. However, after only seven decades, the nation split in 1992 with a sour and blood-soaked ending.
Millions of locals died in wars, and Dubrovnik underwent substantial damage. Fortunately, with EU funding and the millions of tourists visiting the area annually, the city has been restored, and it's as beautiful as the day it was built.
The fairytale-like fortified town on the sea is so magical that it was used as the filming location for King's Landing in Game of Thrones. This pop-culture explosion cemented Dubrovnik as the place to visit for anyone who wants to step into Westeros.
From Split to Dubrovnik: Travel Tips
Driving from Split to Dubrovnik isn't an ordinary venture from A to B. It's one of the most surreal experiences in Europe. Make the most of this opportunity with these insider travel tips!
Get Insider Knowledge
Dubrovnik's Mediterranean climate and astonishing architecture attract millions of tourists. As a result, the city unfortunately suffers from overtourism. There are some tourist traps and unauthentic eateries dotted along the main streets.
Although Daytrip’s drivers aren't tour guides, they are locals. Take advantage of their knowledge so you can travel like a local and uncover several hidden gems where residents eat and drink.
### Book Your Transportation in Advance
Split and Dubrovnik are some of the most sought-after tourist cities worldwide. And with a border crossing with Bosnia, getting from the mainland to an enclave isn't straightforward.
The bus, train, and private transfers often sell out in advance. If you book more than four weeks in advance, you'll also receive early bird deals!
### Consider the Weather
The average summer temperature in Dubrovnik is 82° Fahrenheit. First things first, be sure to book transportation with quality air conditioning!
Even with AC, the sun's rays will enter through the windows, which could cause sunburn. Have easy access to sunscreen to combat this issue. In addition, don't forget to fill up your water bottle!
### Stop for Sightseeing
When you book a ride with Daytrip, you're not just treating yourself to the most convenient way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik. You have complete control over your trip, which means you can stop for sightseeing at some of the most iconic destinations in the Balkans, including Klis Fortress, another Game of Thrones filming location, Mostar and its iconic bridge, or Ston, where you'll find "The Great Wall of Europe".
How to Get From Split to Dubrovnik
Many visitors in Croatia wonder how to get from Split to Dubrovnik and how far the distance is by car. Fortunately, our professional drivers and travel experts can answer all those questions and more.
Flight from Split to Dubrovnik
A flight has the fastest travel time from Split to Dubrovnik. Croatia Airlines offers a speedy journey that will take you south in only 35 minutes.
However, add in having to get to and from the airport, going through security checks, boarding, and waiting in lines and the actual travel time is more like 3.5 hours. Considering the road distance from Split to Dubrovnik is only 142 miles, flying isn't worth it for such a short trip.
### Bus from Spilt to Dubrovnik
The bus is the most affordable way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik. It's also the most popular route. Many backpackers opt for this mode of transportation as it offers an efficient, no-frills voyage.
Flixbus is the most in-demand bus company, with up to six direct buses departing daily. Since it's subject to border crossing, the journey can take up to four hours. The latest bus departs Split at 6:45 p.m., while the earliest leaves at 2:35 a.m.
Although this is a budget-friendly option, you will find extra legroom, charging outlets, and restrooms. Most buses also provide free Wi-Fi.
### Ferry from Split to Dubrovnik
Imagine watching the Dalmatian Coast flash by as the wind brushes through your hair. You take a sip of an ice-cold beer while you bake under the Mediterranean sun and capture endless videos to make your friends back home jealous.
A ferry from Split to Dubrovnik will make this dream come true. For a ticket priced from €45 to €60, you can set sail on the 6-hour journey from Spilt’s central pier!
### Daytrip from Split to Dubrovnik
Daytrip will get you from your address in Split directly to your new one in Dubrovnik in only 3 hours and 10 minutes. Not only is this the fastest way to travel, but it's also the most convenient. You don't have to worry about reaching designated departure points or dragging luggage through the cobbled paths. Our door-to-door service manages all of the headaches of traveling and gives you more time to explore this breathtaking city.
However, the most compelling reason to choose Daytrip is the optional sightseeing opportunities. Explore the thrill-seeking city of Mostar or relax in the Rizman Winery so you don't have to backtrack and cut into your precious Dubrovnik vacation time.
Things to Do When You Get to Dubrovnik
When you travel from Split to Dubrovnik by car, you'll instantly notice how popular the area is. For every local, 36 visitors are in town! In general, you'll be following the crowds when it comes to the best things to do when you get to Dubrovnik.
### See Dubrovnik From Above
The Dubrovnik Cable Car will take you from ground level to over 2500 feet above the city in less than seven minutes. From above, you can admire the orange-tinted roofs of the old town, the lush green nature, and the light blue waters of the sea.
If you can take your eyes away from the stunning scenes, visit the Panorama Restaurant and Bar. Indulge in local cuisine with a handcrafted cocktail as the sun drops below the horizon.
### Walk the Old City Walls
Dubrovnik isn't a budget-friendly spot. However, if there's one place you must splash the cash, it's a tour of the Old City Walls! Full-price adult tickets cost €35, but the views and historical knowledge you'll learn are invaluable.
The walls stretch for over a mile, where you can spot sights such as:
- Minceta Tower
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Lokrum Island
- St. John Fortress
You're free to roam in the footsteps of previous historical leaders or learn more with a guided tour.
### Take Day Trips to Lokrum Island
The short 14-minute sea voyage makes Lokrum Island in demand for day trips. The land offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Explore its lush botanical gardens, walk along scenic trails, and relax on secluded beaches. Dubrovnik is home to dozens of sandy and rocky shores, but you'll find the pick of the bunch here!
You can also visit attractions, such as the ruins of a Benedictine monastery. This medieval fort also houses a botanical garden with exotic plants and peacocks roaming freely.
### Take a Game of Thrones Tour
If you're a Game of Thrones fan, put its tour at the top of your travel inventory!
The two-hour tour departs three times daily from May to November at 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and 4:00 PM. Walking the streets will feel like you’re experiencing Déjà Vu. Your guide will bring you to all the spots on millions of TVs worldwide!
Best Time to Visit Dubrovnik
July and August are the most popular times to drive from Split to Dubrovnik. It's unquestionably one of the hottest European summer destinations. But the compact city with narrow streets is often overcrowded during this time.
Instead, the best time to visit Dubrovnik is in the spring. Temperatures are most pleasant for spending time outside. There are fewer crowds and more attractive tour deals. Also, you can enjoy some of Croatia's best cultural events, including the Dubrovnik Music Fest and Bavarin, a mouthwatering food festival!
Alternatively, September and October are also great times to visit Dubrovnik. Temperatures start to cool, and the quieter streets allow you to explore freely.
The road distance from Split to Dubrovnik is 142 miles. As the crow flies, only 102 miles separate the cities.
A private transfer takes 3 hours and 10 minutes, making it the quickest way to get from Split to Dubrovnik. While the flight from Split to Dubrovnik is under 40 minutes, you need to add 3 hours for transportation to and from the airport and waiting time. The average ferry trip takes 6 hours but has great views the entire time.
A day trip is possible from Split to Dubrovnik with Daytrip's fast yet safe door-to-door service, but you'll want to leave early in the morning. However, it's best to stay in Dubrovnik for at least three days to soak up its rich offerings.
From €59, Daytrip offers door-to-door services with an English-speaking driver with extensive local knowledge. And with Daytrip, you can stop for sightseeing along the way.
A private door-to-door service with Daytrip is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik.
There's no direct train from Split. Alternative public transport options include the bus, flight, and ferry.
In 2022, the construction of the Peljesac Bridge will allow visitors to bypass border control driving from Split. However, some buses still pass through Neum, which requires passport controls.
沿途参观这些景点
克里斯堡
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
莫斯塔尔
This charming riverside town is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Old Bridge (Stari Most), the Balkans' most celebrated span. A crossroads of culture
梅季戈里耶
While its name means 'between the hills', this small village is a sacred destination for millions of pilgrims. A spiritual destination
里兹曼酒庄
This winery offers a unique gateway to South Croatian winemaking and traditions this great craft entails.
Dalmatia's Liquid Gold
斯通
In the Southern Dalmatian region of Croatia, unbeknownst to many due to size, lies a city with an impressive defensive wall nicknamed “The European Wall of China”. The European Wall of China
特尔斯特诺植物园
The oldest arboretum in the world has weathered war, fire, and Game of Thrones. An Ancient Verdant Escape
"We have used Day Trip
On two other occasions and our driver Petar was by far the best. He’s an excellent driver and we also feel we made a friend. Not only did he drive us from Split to Dubrovnik but he told us all about Croatia and its history. It was a delightful day!"
David S.
United States
2026年4月25日
"excellent, smooth and comfortable ride in a mercedes minivan. there was a little hiccup but Luka handled it well."
Yi Wen T.
Singapore
2025年10月25日
"Bojan our tour driver was the Best. He has exceeded our expectations as a driver. Made our trip very safe,comfortable and convenient to reach our accommodation in Dubrovnik. He even made efforts to drive us to the meeting place of our first scheduled dinner tour. He gave us stories, brief infos about Croatia and Bosnia. KUDOS and a milliln Thanks to Bojan ( Robert L. Look A-Like)"
Robert M.
United States
2025年10月13日
"Stipe was helpful with the luggages and his excitement to share about his city and country was contagious! He answered every one of our questions well and was always eager to share more. He was also very flexible about the journey and took a slightly longer route (on our request) just so we could visit another town! Overall a great trip and we're very thankful~ "
Li Ting S.
Singapore
2025年10月9日
"Marko was a great driver and the trip was very smooth. We would have just loved more time in Ston to actually get to climb the wall, so we would vote for having an option for a longer transfer, as lunch took all of our time there. But the day was beautiful and we got safely to Dubrovnik! And Marko picked us up right by our place in Split, so that was awesome!"
Jill W.
United States
2025年9月28日
"My driver was remarkable - friendly and knowledgeable. Vehicle was excellent! My day trip always delivers an excellent transfer - thank you again "
Cathy T.
United States
2025年9月26日
"All communications with the DayTrips team were fast and efficient. Our driver was on time, super friendly and extra helpful. I would use this service and recommend it to anyone traveling in the area."
Christian H.
United States
2025年9月22日
"Dino was an excellent driver. He was kind, patient, and knowledgeable. We had an amazing day. We loved our stops in Mostar and Aston! Would highly recommend this to anyone! "
Victoria B.
United States
2025年9月20日
"Nikica was prompt, polite, helpful, informative and quite lovely. Our trip from Split to Dubrovnik with stops in Ston and Klis Fortress was effortless and comfortable! Much nicer than taking the bus! Highly recommend using day trip and thanks again to Nikica for making our day so pleasant!"
Lori M.
Canada
2025年9月10日
"We will absolutely use this service again. Our driver, Mario, was professional, friendly, provided us with water, and even gave us the option to use Wi-Fi. After comparing several options, this was also the best price. Excellent service overall!"
miroslava c.
United States
2025年9月9日
"Driver arrived on time, helped us with our bags and delivered us to our location in good time. Thank you!"
Jan O.
Australia
2025年9月7日
"Vlad was very knowledgeable and friendly. It was like having your own personal tour guide. The trip was comfortable and we enjoyed the drive."
Paula B.
Australia
2025年9月4日
"Antonio was a very good driver , very friendly and considerate. He spoke good English and told us about many places and drove through some very scenic routes which we enjoyed very much . Many thanks to Antonio . "
Zeeba A.
United States
2025年2月6日
"We have used day trip several times about the world, our driver was the best so far. Answered my billion questions and told us the history of things. "
KATHRYN B.
United States
2024年12月10日
"It was a good trip, Driver was knowledgeable of current events and recent history. Being from Bosnia, he provided a nice counterpoint to the Croatian guides I had while in Zagreb and Dubrovnik, giving a different perspective. Mostar was a beautiful place to visit."
Samuel A.
United States
2024年12月3日
"Our transfer was excellent. Samir showed up on time, the car was nice, clean, and comfortable. He was knowledgeable of our stios and pointed out points of interest as we went. He had good suggestions for when we stopped and we had no issues with customs at the border. We would recommend him and use him again if we need. Top notch service.
"
Aarin S.
Canada
2024年11月7日
"Our trip from Split to Dubrovnik was equally enjoyable and smooth. She gave us WiFi on the way to our destination and we had a great stop in Mostar and Medjorge"
Steve B.
United States
2024年11月1日
"The whole experience was excellent. Roko was informative and very polite and friendly. The car was very comfortable.
"
KAREN V.
Australia
2024年10月28日
"Our trip was great, and Dora was fantastic. We really enjoyed our time with her. We would definitely request her if we come back.
"
John J.
United States
2024年10月28日
"The trip was fabulous and Ivanka was excellent. Great driver, very pleasant and shared local knowledge with us as well. We would definitely use the service again and would recommend Ivanka and the company without hesitation"
