Croatia

How to get from Plitvice Lakes to Dubrovnik

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

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FASTEST
6h 22min
💶
From
27€
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Distance
318 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Plitvice Lakes to Dubrovnik

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Plitvice Lakes
📍The main departure point for buses from Plitvice Lakes is the Plitvice Lakes National Park Entrance 2 bus stop. It's a small, clearly marked stop located right outside the park's second entrance, which is often more convenient for travelers staying within the park or nearby accommodations.
🚇From within Plitvice Lakes National Park, you can typically reach Entrance 2 on foot or by using the park's internal shuttle bus system, which is included in your park entrance ticket. If you're staying in nearby villages, local taxis might be available, but walking is often feasible depending on your accommodation's proximity.
⏰Bus departures from Plitvice Lakes to Dubrovnik are less frequent than from major cities. There are typically 1-2 departures per day, usually in the morning or early afternoon. It's crucial to check the exact schedule and book your tickets well in advance, especially during high season.
💸 Transport from 27€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 6h 22min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
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Practical tips

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Book Ahead, Especially in Summer

Summer ferries and popular bus routes can sell out days in advance. Always book your tickets online as soon as your plans are firm, particularly for journeys in July and August, to avoid being stranded or facing long waits.

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Double-Check Port Names

For islands like Hvar, be aware that car ferries (to Stari Grad) and catamarans (to Hvar Town) often depart from different piers in Split and arrive at different locations on the island. Always confirm your exact departure and arrival points.

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Understand Travel Time

A 'short' distance on the map can translate to several hours of travel due to coastal roads and ferry crossings. Factor in sufficient buffer time between connections, especially if you have a tight schedule, to avoid missing subsequent transfers.

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Monitor Ferry Schedules Seasonally

Ferry frequencies drastically change outside of peak summer. Inquire about off-season schedules if traveling in May, early June, September, or October, as some routes may have reduced service or be suspended entirely.

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Consider Bus + Ferry Combos

For island hopping from inland cities, a bus + ferry combination is often necessary. Websites like 12go.asia and Baolau.vn can help you visualize and book these integrated journeys, simplifying complex itineraries.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating from the stunning Plitvice Lakes to the historic city of Dubrovnik is a popular route, and it's essential to plan your journey effectively. While Croatia might appear compact on a map, its long coastline and numerous islands mean travel can be more complex than expected. This guide helps you instantly determine the best transport option – whether by bus, ferry, or a combination – ensuring you know exactly where to depart and how long your journey will take, allowing for seamless travel planning. You'll avoid unpleasant surprises and make the most of your precious travel time.

For your trip from Plitvice Lakes to Dubrovnik, the most direct and practical option is by bus. Expect the journey to cost around €27 and take approximately 6 hours. Reputable operators like FlixBus and Arriva frequently serve this route, offering comfortable coaches equipped with amenities. While no direct ferry connection exists, and flying would involve a convoluted route via Zagreb, the bus offers a reliable and scenic way to traverse the country, allowing you to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes.

Keep in mind that while this specific route doesn't involve island hopping, the principles of planning apply throughout Croatia. Always book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season (May to October), to secure your seat. Being aware of departure terminals and understanding estimated travel times will empower you to build an itinerary that truly connects, without the stress of last-minute bookings or logistical unknowns.

Frequently asked questions — Plitvice Lakes → Dubrovnik

✨ Why visit Dubrovnik?

  • ✓ Walk the ancient city walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and Old Town.
  • ✓ Explore the historic Rector's Palace, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece.
  • ✓ Take a cable car ride up Mount Srđ for panoramic vistas and a sunset experience.
  • ✓ Visit Lokrum Island, a nature reserve with a monastery, botanical garden, and secluded beaches.
  • ✓ Stroll along the Stradun (Placa), the main street of the Old Town, lined with shops and cafes.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — to fully immerse in history, enjoy beaches, and explore nearby islands.

☀️ When to visit Dubrovnik?

MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE

May to June or September to October — pleasant weather for sightseeing, swimming, and fewer crowds.

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In Dubrovnik — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Dubrovnik
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Dubrovnik?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Walk Dubrovnik Old Town Walls
Explore the iconic city walls offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic Old Town. This 2-hour walk is best done early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Expect entry fees around 35€ per person.
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Visit Rector's Palace, Old Town
Discover the impressive Gothic-Renaissance architecture of the Rector's Palace, once the seat of the Republic of Ragusa's rector. Inside, explore historical artifacts and beautifully preserved rooms. It's less crowded than the walls; allow 1-1.5 hours. Entry is typically around 15€.
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Ride Cable Car Srd Hill
Take the panoramic cable car up to Mount Srd for stunning views over Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, especially beautiful at sunset. There’s a restaurant and a museum at the top. A return ticket costs around 27€. Go an hour before sunset for the best light.
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Explore Lokrum Island Nature Reserve
Escape to Lokrum Island, a peaceful nature reserve just a 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik. Enjoy botanical gardens, a monastery, and peacocks roaming freely. Don't miss the 'Dead Sea' lake for a swim. Ferry tickets are around 20€ return.
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Visit Dubrovnik Cathedral
Admire the impressive Baroque architecture of Dubrovnik Cathedral, rebuilt after the 1667 earthquake. Its Treasury holds valuable relics, including the skull of St. Blaise, the city's patron saint. Entry to the cathedral is free, but the Treasury has a small fee, typically 5€.
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Taste Local Wines, Peljesac Peninsula
Venture beyond the city walls to the nearby Peljesac Peninsula for a wine tasting experience. This region is famous for its robust red wines, particularly Plavac Mali. Consider a half-day tour from Dubrovnik (around 60-80€) to visit local wineries and sample their produce.
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Sea Kayaking Around Old Town
Paddle a kayak around the Old Town walls and explore hidden caves and beaches, including Betina Cave. It offers a unique perspective of Dubrovnik from the sea. Guided tours, often including swimming and snorkeling, typically cost around 35-50€ for a 3-hour experience.
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Dine in a Local Konoba
Savor authentic Croatian cuisine in a 'konoba,' a traditional tavern often tucked away in charming alleyways. Look for fresh seafood, 'peka' (meat and vegetables cooked under a bell), and local olive oil. A hearty meal with wine can range from 25-40€ per person. Book ahead for popular spots.

⏱️ How long to visit Dubrovnik?

2 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 full days is ideal to truly experience Dubrovnik, including its Old Town, city walls, and a day trip to Lokrum Island or Cavtat. With 2 days, focus on the historical core. If you have 4-5 days, consider excursions to Montenegro or Mostar.

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