How to Get From Split to Hvar (and Vice Versa): Ferries, Flights, and Travel Tips

Are you planning a sun-drenched getaway to Croatia’s most glamorous island? Getting from Split to Hvar is the final leg of the journey for thousands of international travelers every year. Whether you are landing at Split Airport or wrapping up a few days in the historic Diocletian’s Palace, figuring out island transportation can feel overwhelming with multiple operators, seasonal schedules, and different arrival ports.

This ultimate 2026 travel guide covers everything you need to know about navigating the route between Split and Hvar island (and vice versa). From high-speed passenger catamarans and car ferries to private transfers and flights, we will break down the options so you can choose the best route for your travel style.

Planning ahead pays off! If you haven’t booked your stay yet, you can bundle your flights and accommodation through the Trip.com US Hub to save up to 30% on luxury Hvar boutique hotels.

The Golden Rule: Hvar Town vs. Stari Grad

Before booking any tickets, you must know that Hvar has two distinct ferry ports:

1. Hvar Town (Hvar Port): Located directly on the southwestern coast, this is the main tourist hotspot, home to upscale beach clubs, boutique hotels, and nightlife. Only passenger-only catamarans dock here.
2. Stari Grad: Located on the northern side of the island, this historic town is where all car ferries dock. If you are traveling with a vehicle, this is your only option.

1. High-Speed Catamaran: Best for Foot Passengers

If you are traveling without a car, taking a high-speed catamaran is the fastest and most popular way to reach Hvar. The journey takes between 50 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, dropping you right on the main promenade in Hvar Town.

Three major companies service this route throughout the year, with up to 20 daily departures during the peak summer months (June to September):

• Kapetan Luka (Krilo): Renowned for fast, sleek catamarans like the Krilo Carbo and Eclipse, Kapetan Luka runs frequent direct routes.
• Jadrolinija: The national liner company Jadrolinija offers reliable passenger catamarans and guarantees a reserved spot upon ticket purchase.
• TP Line: Another solid option operating modern catamarans with competitive pricing.

Average Ticket Price: €8.50 to €25 per person, depending on the season and route.
Pro Tip: Catamaran tickets sell out weeks in advance for summer weekends. Always book online ahead of time.

2. Car Ferry from Split to Stari Grad: Best for Road Trippers

Renting a car at Split Airport to explore the hidden coves of southern Croatia? You will need to take the large Jadrolinija car ferry (Line 635) from Split Ferry Port to Stari Grad.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.
• Cost: Roughly €8.50 per adult passenger and around €45–€50 for a standard car during high season.
• Getting to Hvar Town: Once you dock in Stari Grad, Hvar Town is a 20-minute drive or local bus ride away (24 km).

Note: While buying a ticket online reserves a spot on the boat, it does not guarantee your car will fit if you show up late. In July and August, line up at the Split Ferry Port at least 90 minutes before departure.

3. Flights and Airport Transfers to Split

Hvar does not have a commercial airport for commercial jets, meaning you will need to fly into Split Airport (SPU).

To make your journey seamless, many tourists combine international flights with island lodging. By mapping out your logistics together, you can unlock significant savings. Check out premium packages on Trip.com to find exclusive flight deals and secure the island’s top-rated boutique accommodations in one go.

From Split Airport to the Ferry Port:
Upon landing, you can reach the main Split Ferry Port via:

• The Airport Shuttle Bus: A 30–40 minute direct ride that coordinates with flight arrivals.
• Taxi or Uber: Around 30 minutes depending on city traffic.

4. Private Speedboat Transfers: The Luxury Option

If you value convenience, want to skip the ferry lines, or are arriving late at night after the last ferry leaves, a private speedboat transfer is the ultimate option [2.5]. Companies like Dalmatia Express operate 24/7 water taxis that can pick you up directly from a dock near Split Airport and drop you right at your Hvar hotel dock in about 60 minutes.

Traveling in Reverse: How to Get From Hvar to Split

Heading back to the mainland follows the exact same logic. High-speed catamarans leave directly from the Hvar Town promenade back to the Split Ferry Port.

If you are departing from Stari Grad with a car, make sure to check the off-season vs. peak-season schedules, as departures drop significantly from October through April. The early morning catamarans from Hvar Town to Split are highly popular for travelers catching flights home, so secure those return tickets early!

Essential Travel Tips for Your Trip

• Luggage Constraints: Catamarans have designated racks for large suitcases. There is no strict weight limit, but you must be able to carry your bags up the boarding ramp yourself.
• Bad Weather Cancellations: In the event of high winds or rough seas (Bura or Jugo winds), catamarans may be canceled. The larger car ferries rarely get canceled, making them the safest backup option.
• Is Hvar Expensive? While Hvar is known as a premium destination, smart planning can keep costs reasonable. Save on transit by sticking to regional catamarans instead of private boats, and save on accommodation by utilizing package deals.