How to get from Hvar to Zadar
There is no regular direct ferry from Hvar to Zadar. The usual way is a Jadrolinija catamaran from Hvar town to Split, about 1 h, then a bus to Zadar, about 2 h 30 to 3 h, or a drive of about 1 h 45 on the A1 motorway. Allow about 4 to 5 h in total.
Best option: Ferry. The catamaran to Split plus a bus is the simplest public transport combination, with many departures in summer.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Catamaran from Hvar town to Split (Jadrolinija and other operators), then a bus from Split bus station to Zadar | about 4 to 5 h in total | catamarans several a day in summer, fewer in winter; buses frequent | about €10–20 for the catamaran plus about €12–20 for the bus | Split bus station is next to the ferry port. Check current timetables, especially outside summer. |
| car Car ferry from Stari Grad (Hvar) to Split (Jadrolinija), then the A1 motorway to Zadar | about 2 h crossing plus about 1 h 45 to 2 h drive | car ferries several a day | ferry fare for car and passengers plus motorway tolls | Book vehicle space ahead in summer; queues at Stari Grad can be long. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Hvar town catamarans are foot passengers only; car ferries go from Stari Grad.
- Buy catamaran tickets in advance in July and August.
- In Split, the bus station and ferry port are side by side, which makes the change easy.
- Croatian motorway tolls can be paid by card at the toll booths.
Common questions
Is there a direct ferry from Hvar to Zadar?
Not as a regular service. Most travellers go via Split: a catamaran from Hvar town to Split takes about an hour, and buses to Zadar leave frequently from the station next to the port. Check current timetables in case a seasonal coastal line runs, but plan on changing in Split.
How long does Hvar to Zadar take?
About four to five hours in total by catamaran and bus, depending on connections. The catamaran to Split takes about an hour, and the bus to Zadar about 2 h 30 to 3 h. By car, allow about two hours on the Stari Grad–Split ferry and about two hours on the motorway.
Can I take my car from Hvar to Zadar?
Yes. Take the Jadrolinija car ferry from Stari Grad to Split, about two hours, then drive north on the A1 motorway to Zadar. The catamarans from Hvar town do not carry cars. Book vehicle space ahead in summer, as the ferries fill up.
Do I need to book the catamaran ahead?
In July and August, yes: catamarans between Hvar and Split often sell out, especially in the afternoon. Buy online or at the port offices. Buses from Split to Zadar run frequently, so you can usually buy those on the day, though booking ahead is safer in high season.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.