Croatia

How to get from Split to Rijeka

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

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FASTEST
0h 55min
💶
From
27€
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Distance
257 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Split to Rijeka

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

🚌 Departure from Split
📍The main departure point in Split for buses is the Split Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Split), conveniently located right next to the ferry port and the train station. It's a bustling hub with ticket offices, cafes, and luggage storage.
🚇From Split city center, the bus station is easily reachable on foot (5-10 minutes from Diocletian's Palace). Alternatively, local city buses (lines 9, 10, 15) stop nearby, or a short taxi ride will cost around €5-8.
⏰Buses to Rijeka typically depart several times a day, with services starting early morning (e.g., 6 AM) until late afternoon/early evening. Frequencies are highest from May to October, with major operators like Flixbus and Arriva.
💸 Transport from 27€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 0h 55min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
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Practical tips

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Book Ahead for Summer Ferries

During peak season (July-August), ferries to popular islands like Hvar and Brač sell out days in advance. Always book your tickets online as soon as your plans are firm to avoid disappointment at the port.

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Understand Port Locations

In Split, catamarans (passengers only) depart from a different pier than car ferries. Similarly, Hvar island has Hvar Town port and Stari Grad port; ensure you know which one serves your route to avoid going to the wrong place.

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Check Last Boat Timings

When island hopping, always confirm the schedule for the last ferry back to the mainland or to your next island. Missing it could mean an unplanned overnight stay, especially for smaller islands.

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Identify Your Departure Port for Islands

For Hvar, Brač, and Vis, ferries depart from Split. For Korčula, you might leave from Orebić (via a short bus from Split or Dubrovnik) or even directly from Dubrovnik. Mljet usually connects from Dubrovnik. Knowing this prevents unnecessary travel.

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Compare Bus, Ferry & Flight for Value

While Split to Rijeka has clear options, for longer routes like Zagreb to Dubrovnik, a flight might save you 7+ hours compared to a bus, at a similar cost. Always compare price, time, and frequency for your specific route.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your journey from Split to Rijeka? Croatia’s stunning coastline offers diverse travel options, and understanding them is key to a smooth trip. We'll help you instantly know whether your trip is by bus, ferry, bus + ferry, or flight, so you can plan your route with confidence. We provide honest crossing times and clarify which ports serve which islands, ensuring you choose the best connection for your itinerary.

For the Split to Rijeka route, you have two primary options: the bus or a domestic flight. A bus journey typically costs around €27 and takes approximately 5 hours, offering a scenic ride along the coast. Alternatively, a flight can get you there in about 1 hour for approximately €45, which can be a time-saver if your schedule is tight and you prioritize speed over cost. Both options offer direct connections between these two major Croatian cities.

Croatia may look compact, but getting around, especially with islands, requires good planning. While this particular route is straightforward, remember that island-hopping often involves multiple connections and booking ferries in advance, particularly in summer. Don't worry about crowded catamarans or confusing port locations; with clear information, you can secure your tickets online with instant confirmation and navigate your way like a seasoned traveller.

Frequently asked questions — Split → Rijeka

✨ Why visit Rijeka?

  • ✓ Explore Korzo, the vibrant main promenade with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
  • ✓ Visit Trsat Castle, offering panoramic views of Rijeka, the Kvarner Bay, and surrounding islands.
  • ✓ Discover the Peek & Poke Computer Museum, a nostalgic journey through computing history.
  • ✓ Relax at Sablićevo Beach, known for its clear waters and picturesque pebble shore.
  • ✓ Experience the Rijeka Carnival (if timing allows), one of Europe's largest and most famous carnivals.
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Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — to explore the city's main attractions and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

☀️ When to visit Rijeka?

MEDITERRANEAN, HUMID SUBTROPICAL

May to September — pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Jan 😐
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Mar 😐
Apr 😊
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Oct 😐
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In Rijeka — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Rijeka
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Rijeka?

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

INCONTOURNABLE
🏰
Explore Trsat Castle History
Perched on a hill, Trsat Castle offers panoramic views of Rijeka and the Kvarner Bay. Wander through its ancient courtyards and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Climb the bell tower for the best photo opportunities. Access to the grounds is free, but the museum inside may have a small entrance fee (typically under 5€).
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Stroll Korzo Promenade
Korzo is the vibrant heart of Rijeka, a pedestrian promenade bustling with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. It's the perfect place for people-watching and soaking in the city's lively ambiance. Visit in the late afternoon for a coffee and to observe local life. Most cafes offer outdoor seating.
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Admire Croatian National Theatre
The Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc is an architectural gem, known for its opulent interior and diverse program of opera, drama, and ballet. Even if you don't catch a show, its exterior and foyer are worth admiring. Check their website for guided tours or performance schedules. Tickets for shows often start around 10€.
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Experience Rijeka Central Market
The Central Market, or Placa, is a bustling hub where locals buy fresh produce, fish, and local delicacies. The historic fish market building is particularly impressive. Go early in the morning (before 10h) for the freshest selection and to experience its authentic atmosphere. Expect lively haggling and vibrant displays.
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Visit St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is a unique Baroque rotunda, distinct from many other European cathedrals. Its circular design and rich interior are fascinating. Take time to observe the intricate altar and stained glass windows. Entry is generally free, but donations are welcome. Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
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Explore Maritime History Museum
Housed in the beautiful Governor's Palace, this museum showcases Rijeka's rich maritime heritage. Exhibits cover shipbuilding, navigation, and the city's role as a major port. Allow at least 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit. Admission typically costs around 5-7€. It offers a great insight into the region's past.
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Discover Modern and Contemporary Art
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMSU) features an impressive collection of Croatian and international art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Located in a repurposed industrial building, it offers a fresh perspective. Check their temporary exhibitions, which are often excellent. Entry usually around 3-5€.
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Hike to Risnjak National Park
For nature lovers, a day trip to Risnjak National Park is highly recommended. Enjoy pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain views. Various hiking trails suit different fitness levels. Entry to the park is around 7-10€. Consider packing a picnic as food options inside are limited. It's about a 45-minute drive from Rijeka.

⏱️ How long to visit Rijeka?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days in Rijeka is ideal. This allows you to explore the city center, its historical sites like Trsat Castle, and enjoy the local culinary scene without rushing. If you have more time, consider day trips to Opatija or the nearby islands.

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