By Bus
Buses are the backbone of Croatian public transport and the best way to move between cities. The network is extensive and reliable. Zagreb to Split costs around €15 and takes about five hours; Split to Dubrovnik is roughly €12 and three hours. Buy tickets in advance online or at bus stations — routes fill up in summer. Main operators include FlixBus, Arriva, and Čazmatrans. Baggage fees apply for luggage stored under the bus.
By Ferry
Ferries and catamarans are essential for reaching the islands. Jadrolinija is the main operator, running car ferries and passenger-only catamarans. Krilo also runs fast catamaran services on Dalmatian routes.
Key routes: Split to Hvar (about 1 hour, from €10), Split to Brač (50 minutes), Dubrovnik to Korčula, and the long-distance summer catamaran linking Dubrovnik, Hvar, Korčula, and Split. The busiest single connection is Split to Supetar on Brač, running four or five times daily. Only Krk and Pag are connected to the mainland by bridge; all other islands need a ferry.
Car ferries are first-come, first-served for vehicles — arrive early in summer or you may miss the boat literally. Foot passengers can board up to 10 minutes before departure. Most inter-island schedules thin out significantly between November and April.
By Train
Croatia's rail network is limited and generally slower than buses. Trains are useful for Zagreb to Rijeka, and Zagreb to Osijek. The Zagreb–Split line exists but is infrequent and takes longer than the bus. Trains are comfortable for inland routes but don't reach most coastal or island destinations.
By Car
Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially in Istria, on the larger islands, and for national park visits. Rentals start around €15–25 per day. Croatian roads are good; the A1 motorway runs most of the coastal length with tolls. Petrol stations are common on major roads but sparse on islands — fill up before boarding a ferry.
Driving in Dubrovnik and Split old towns is pointless and often restricted. Park outside and walk.
By Domestic Flight
Croatia Airlines connects Zagreb with Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, and Zadar. One-way fares start around €50. Practical if you need to cover large distances quickly, but buses and ferries usually suffice.