There are 1 way(s) to get from Hvar to Makarska
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Practical tips
During peak season (July-August), catamarans and car ferries from Hvar to Split often sell out days in advance. Secure your tickets online through Jadrolinija or Kapetan Luka to avoid disappointment and ensure your spot.
Ferries to Split primarily depart from Hvar Town port (for catamarans) or Stari Grad port (for car ferries), which is about 20km from Hvar Town. Always double-check your ticket to ensure you head to the correct departure point to avoid missing your boat.
Upon arrival in Split, the bus terminal is conveniently located near the ferry port. Check the schedules for buses to Makarska immediately. While frequent, knowing the next departure helps minimize waiting time and ensures a smooth transition.
For foot passengers from Hvar Town, catamarans are generally faster and more direct to Split. Car ferries from Stari Grad are slower but usually cheaper. For this route, the catamaran from Hvar Town to Split is often the most time-efficient choice.
If you're planning a day trip or simply need to ensure you don't get stranded, always confirm the last ferry or catamaran departure time from Hvar to Split. These times vary by season and can be earlier outside of summer. Plan accordingly.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip from Hvar to Makarska can seem tricky as it involves combining different modes of transport across land and sea. We understand you want to know instantly whether a trip is by bus, ferry, or a combination, and which port to depart from. This guide aims to simplify your journey, ensuring you have all the essential details to travel seamlessly between the beautiful island of Hvar and the coastal town of Makarska. We’ll cover the most efficient routes, approximate timings, and crucial booking advice.
Your primary option for reaching Makarska from Hvar without a car is a bus + ferry combo via Split. This journey typically takes around 3 hours and costs approximately €24. You'll first take a catamaran or car ferry from Hvar town to Split, which is the main hub for onward travel on the mainland. From Split, numerous coaches operate regularly to Makarska, providing a straightforward connection. Key operators for the ferry segment include Jadrolinija and Kapetan Luka (catamaran), while bus connections from Split to Makarska are often handled by companies like Arriva or Flixbus.
Croatia's coast is long, and island hopping requires careful planning. While the route might involve a transfer in Split, knowing which port serves which island (Split for Hvar) and understanding that summer ferries sell out days in advance is crucial. Our advice is to book your ferry and bus tickets online well in advance, especially if you're traveling between May and October. This proactive approach ensures you avoid the frustration of fully booked services and makes your island-hopping experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Frequently asked questions — Hvar → Makarska
The best way for independent travelers is a bus + ferry combination. You will first take a catamaran from Hvar Town to Split, followed by a direct bus from Split's main bus terminal to Makarska. This ensures a relatively quick and efficient transfer, allowing you to enjoy both the island and the coastal scenery.
The total journey typically takes around 3 hours. This includes the catamaran crossing from Hvar to Split (approximately 1 hour) and the bus ride from Split to Makarska (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours), plus a buffer for transferring between the ferry port and bus terminal in Split.
The estimated cost for the entire journey is around €24. This breaks down to about €15-25 for the catamaran from Hvar to Split, and roughly €9-15 for the bus from Split to Makarska. Prices can vary slightly based on the operator and season, so booking in advance can sometimes offer better rates.
Absolutely, especially if you're traveling between May and October. Summer ferries often sell out days in advance. Booking online via operators like Jadrolinija, Kapetan Luka for ferries, and Arriva or Flixbus for buses, will secure your spot and provide instant confirmation, avoiding any last-minute stress.
For a foot passenger without a car, the catamaran from Hvar Town to Split is generally better. It's significantly faster and more direct than a car ferry from Stari Grad. While car ferries might be cheaper, the time saved by taking a catamaran often outweighs the minimal cost difference, especially if you value time in high season.
✨ Why visit Makarska?
- ✓ Stroll along the picturesque Riva promenade, lined with cafes and palm trees, offering stunning sea views.
- ✓ Relax on the beautiful pebble beaches, such as Punta Rata or Nugal, known for their crystal-clear waters.
- ✓ Hike or cycle in the Biokovo Nature Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and islands.
- ✓ Explore the historic Old Town with its charming narrow streets, main square (Kačić Square), and baroque church.
- ✓ Enjoy boat excursions to nearby islands like Hvar and Brač, famous for their natural beauty and hidden coves.
☀️ When to visit Makarska?
MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE
May to September — pleasant temperatures for swimming and outdoor activities, with vibrant summer atmosphere.
What to do in Makarska?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Makarska?
For a solo traveler, 3 to 5 days are ideal to explore Makarska and its surroundings. This allows time for hiking in Biokovo, relaxing on the beaches, and enjoying local cuisine. Plan for 7 days if you intend to visit nearby islands or engage in water sports extensively.
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