There are 1 way(s) to get from Plitvice Lakes to Split
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Practical tips
During peak season (July-August), catamarans and car ferries to popular islands like Hvar or Brač can sell out days in advance. Always book your tickets online as soon as your itinerary is firm to avoid disappointment at the port. This is crucial for seamless island hopping.
Split has separate piers for catamarans (passenger-only) and car ferries. Catamarans are faster but don't carry vehicles. Always verify which type of vessel you're taking and head to the correct pier. Getting to the wrong one could mean missing your boat.
For Hvar, catamarans usually arrive directly in Hvar Town. Car ferries, however, dock at Stari Grad, requiring a bus or taxi transfer (20-30 min) to Hvar Town. For Brač, catamarans serve Bol, while car ferries go to Supetar. Always check the exact arrival port on the island.
Routes like Split → Hvar → Korčula → Dubrovnik are popular but require careful planning. Not all islands have direct connections to each other daily. Use operator websites (Jadrolinija, Kapetan Luka, TP Line) to confirm specific routes and timings, especially outside peak summer.
When visiting an island for a day trip, always note the schedule for the last return ferry or catamaran. Missing it could mean an unplanned overnight stay. Ferry frequencies decrease significantly outside of the high season (May-June, September-October).
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Croatia, particularly the route from the stunning Plitvice Lakes to the vibrant coastal city of Split, can seem straightforward at first glance. However, for independent travellers like you, who value time and seamless connections for island hopping, understanding the intricacies of transport options is key. Knowing whether your journey involves a bus, a ferry, or a combination, and precisely where to embark for each island, makes all the difference in planning your Croatian adventure.
From Plitvice Lakes, your journey to Split is best undertaken by bus. This direct and cost-effective option takes approximately 3 hours, with tickets typically ranging from €18 to €30. Operators like Flixbus and Arriva frequently service this route, offering comfortable coaches equipped for your luggage. While there are no direct train connections, and flights are impractical for this specific route, the bus provides a reliable and scenic way to transition from the lakes' natural beauty to Split's historic charm.
While this particular leg is bus-only, be aware that future island-hopping will require a keen understanding of ferry schedules and booking in advance, especially during peak season. Ferries to popular islands like Hvar and Brač depart from Split's main port, but routes to Korčula or Mljet might require travel from Dubrovnik or Orebić. Always check departure ports and book your catamaran or car ferry tickets online days ahead to avoid the disappointment of fully booked services, ensuring your Croatian exploration remains smooth and enjoyable.
Frequently asked questions — Plitvice Lakes → Split
The best and only direct public transport option is by bus. It's a reliable and scenic journey, typically costing between €18 and €30. The trip takes approximately 3 hours, making it a convenient way to connect these two popular destinations without any transfers. Operators like Flixbus and Arriva offer regular services on this route.
Catamarans are generally faster and more convenient for foot passengers, especially when you're looking for quick connections between islands (e.g., Split to Hvar takes about 1-2 hours). Car ferries are slower but cheaper and essential if you have a vehicle. Catamarans are passenger-only, while car ferries carry both passengers and vehicles. Always check which type serves your specific route and preferred port.
A bus + ferry combo's duration varies significantly based on the starting point and island. For instance, travelling from Zagreb to Hvar might involve a 4-5 hour bus to Split, then a 1-2 hour catamaran. Always factor in transfer times between bus stations and ferry ports, and allow for potential delays. It's crucial to check specific schedules and connection times to avoid missing your ferry.
While summer (July-August) requires booking ferries days in advance due to high demand, booking ahead for shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) is also highly recommended, especially for popular routes and catamarans. Outside of peak season, ferry frequencies generally decrease. Some routes might only have a few departures per day or even be seasonal, so always check the latest schedules from operators like Jadrolinija, Kapetan Luka, or TP Line.
Combining buses and ferries is common. For island hopping, take a bus to a major coastal hub like Split or Dubrovnik, then connect to a ferry. To reach Italy, you'll typically take a bus to Split or Dubrovnik and then an overnight ferry to Ancona or Bari. Always allow ample buffer time between bus arrival and ferry departure, as delays can occur. Purchase tickets for each segment separately through respective operators or trusted platforms.
✨ Why visit Split?
- ✓ Explore Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a living ancient Roman complex.
- ✓ Stroll along the Riva Promenade, enjoying the sea views and lively cafes.
- ✓ Hike or cycle Marjan Hill for panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands.
- ✓ Discover the charming old town, its narrow streets, and hidden courtyards.
- ✓ Take a ferry to nearby islands like Hvar or Brac for a day trip.
☀️ When to visit Split?
MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE
May to September — Pleasant weather for sightseeing and swimming, with vibrant summer activities.
What to do in Split?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Split?
For independent francophone travellers, 3 to 4 days is ideal to explore Split's historic center, Diocletian's Palace, and take a day trip to nearby islands like Hvar or Brac. If you're short on time, 2 full days allow you to see the main sights. To truly soak in the atmosphere and explore the region, consider extending to 5-7 days.
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