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How to get from Split to Zadar
Buses run frequently from Split to Zadar in about 2 h 30 to 3 h for roughly €12–20. Driving on the A1 motorway takes about 1 h 45 to 2 h. There is no practical train, as the railway lines only meet inland with poor connections.
Best option: Bus. Buses are frequent, cheap and run between the two main bus stations, both close to the centre.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Intercity buses from Split main bus station (by the ferry port) to Zadar bus station, run by several companies including FlixBus | about 2 h 30 – 3 h (slower coastal buses up to 4 h) | many a day in summer, fewer in winter | about €12–20 | Small extra charge for luggage on some buses. Check whether your bus uses the motorway or the coast road. |
| car A1 motorway north from Split towards Zadar | about 1 h 45 – 2 h | fuel plus about €10–12 in tolls | The coastal road via Trogir, Šibenik and Biograd is slower but scenic. Zadar's old town is car-free; park outside it. | |
| taxi Private transfer | about 2 h | on demand | about €180–250 per car | Can include a stop at Šibenik or Krka. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book bus tickets a day ahead in July and August, when buses fill up.
- Split's bus station is next to the ferry port and the train station, a short walk from Diocletian's Palace.
- If driving, consider a detour to Krka National Park or Šibenik.
- The A1 can be closed to some vehicles in strong bura winds; check conditions in winter.
Common questions
Is there a train from Split to Zadar?
Not in any practical sense. Split and Zadar are on separate branch lines that meet inland near Knin, and connections are few and slow. Buses are much faster and more frequent, taking about two and a half to three hours. Most travellers take the bus or drive.
How long is the bus from Split to Zadar?
About 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours on buses that use the A1 motorway. Some buses follow the coast road with stops in Trogir, Šibenik and Biograd and can take up to around 4 hours. Check the route when you book if time matters.
Can I visit Zadar as a day trip from Split?
It is possible but long, with about five to six hours of travel in total. Zadar's old town, the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun can be seen in an afternoon and evening. Many travellers instead stop in Šibenik or at Krka National Park on the way and stay a night in Zadar.
Do I need to book the Split–Zadar bus ahead?
In July and August, booking a day ahead is wise, as popular departures sell out. Outside summer you can usually buy at the station. Online tickets from the bus companies or booking sites guarantee a seat, and you may pay a small fee at boarding for each piece of large luggage.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.