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Getting from Zagreb to Split

Traveling from Zagreb to Split, Croatia, offers a scenic journey through this beautiful country. Whether you choose to drive, take a bus, hop on a train, or fly, the trip is an adventure in itself. You could even book a private car transfer for a completely hassle-free travel.

Driving allows you to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Croatian countryside and coast. The bus and train options provide comfortable and scenic rides with beautiful views of mountains and the Adriatic Sea.

For those in a hurry, a short flight from Zagreb to Split is the quickest option. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the trip promises memorable experiences as you transition from the capital city to the vibrant coastal gem of Split.

Let's explore each of these transportation choices in detail.

A view of Croatia's capital ZagrebA view of Croatia's capital Zagreb

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How far is from Zagreb to Split?

This is a common inquiry among those exploring Croatia. The distance between Split and Zagreb is 408 kilometers. This path carries you from Croatia's capital, through its continental region, to the coast via the Velebit Mountains.


Flights from Zagreb to Split (the quickest)

If you're short on time, a flight from Zagreb to Split is the fastest option, taking just about 45 minutes. Croatia Airlines operate many daily flights, making it easy to find a convenient departure time. To reach Zagreb Airport, choose reliable and quick transfer with Welcome Pickups (affordable prices!).

The Zagreb to Split plane tickets can easily be booked online (you get confirmation email with flight details). We recommend to book as early as possible to find the cheapest tickets (starting from €46 one-way). Other domestic flights From Zagreb include those to Dubrovnik, Brac, Zadar, Pula and Osijek.

Once you land in Split, you'll be just a short ride away from the city center and the stunning Adriatic coastline. From the airport to the city centre take a shuttle bus or prebook a private transfer (for the price of local taxi!) - the driver will drop you off at your apartment/hotel/ferry port. 👉 See all available options here!

The shuttle bus arrives to bus terminal, which is just across the ferry port. From there you can catch numerous ferries/catamarans to the islands of Brac, Hvar, Solta, Vis, Lastovo and Korcula as well as Dubrovnik, in the very south of Croatia.


Buses from Zagreb to Split (the cheapest)

Buses are a popular and economical option, with several companies offering daily services between Zagreb and Split. The journey takes approximately 5-8 hours (depending on a company), providing comfortable seats, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing scenery as you travel from the capital city to the coast. Prices range from €18 to €33, which depends on the operator.

We recommend buying your Zagreb to Split bus tickets ahead, especially for rides during the peak summer months (June to August).

👉 Compare Zagreb to Split buses here


Driving from Zagreb to Split

If you choose to drive from Zagreb to Split, the 410-kilometer trip takes about 4-5 hours via the A1 highway, known as the "Dalmatina." Along the way, you'll pass through stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages. There are plenty of scenic rest stops where you can stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the Croatian countryside.

When you leave Zagreb, enter the A1 motorway at Lucko and follow the signs all the way to Split. Take in consideration it that motorways in Croatia are subject to tolls. A one-way tool between Zagreb and Split will cost you around €25.

However, you can choose to drive along the old highway between Zagreb and Split but this will take you longer because of speed restrictions.

This is ideal is you have more time and you can explore the small places along the way such as Rastoke, Plitvice and Korenica.

A few useful tips on car hire in Croatia

  • If you decide to hire a car for travelling between Zagreb and Split you can do this from many car rental companies in both cities. Most companies will let you to one-way car rental, which is super convenient if you drive in only one direction.

  • Find affordable car hire deals at Discover Cars, where you can find deals of €30 for daily car rental (if booked for a week). Typically, the longer you rent, the less it'll cost per day.

  • The best way to get cheap car rental rates is booking as early as you can. Last minute rentals and high season bookings will usually cost you much more.


Direct private transfer from Zagreb to Split (completely hassle-free)

For completely stress-free travel from Zagreb to Split, consider taking a private car transfer. This option offers door-to-door service, allowing you to travel in comfort and style without the hassle of navigating or dealing with public transportation. Professional drivers will pick you up from your hotel/apartment in Zagreb (or Zagreb airport) and drive directly to Split. The journey from Zagreb to Split takes around 4 hour.

👉 Book Zagreb to Split private transfer


Private transfer from Zagreb to Split (with a visit to Plitvice Lakes)

The stunning Plitvice LakesThe stunning Plitvice Lakes

For making most of your time in Croatia, book transfer from Zagreb to Split with stops along the way. There are several great places you can visit on this route, especially if you have a some extra time.

The Plitvice Lakes, with its beautiful lakes and falls are simply amazing and is a spot where most of the travellers stop. The village of Rastoke (with watermill) is another interesting place to visit.

Popular transfers from Zagreb to Split via Plitvice Lakes:

  1. Private transfer from Zagreb to Split (with Plitvice Lakes guided tour)
  2. Zagreb to Split group transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided tour

Trains from Zagreb to Split

The train travel from Zagreb to Split will take around 6 hours and costs roughly the same as a bus. There are trains twice per day and additionally, there is also a night train from Zagreb to Split.

The night train does take a little longer but it is comfortable and there are sleeping carriages on the train. We recommend you to book your train from Zagreb to Split in advance, especially from May to September, when there are many passengers. 

What you can visit on your drive from Zagreb to Split?

There are several interesting places for stopping when travelling from Zagreb to Split, especially if you have a bit of time. You can even stay overnight at one of these stops:




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