Zagreb Ferry Guide 2026: Getting to the Croatian Islands

Your Guide to Ferries from Zagreb (2026 Update)

Many travelers arriving in Croatia's vibrant capital, Zagreb, plan to continue their journey to the stunning Adriatic islands. A common question that arises is about catching a ferry from Zagreb. This guide clarifies the geography and provides a detailed plan for getting from the capital to the coast to begin your island-hopping adventure.

Understanding Zagreb's Geography: Why There Are No Ferries

The most important fact for your travel planning is that Zagreb is a landlocked city. It is located in the continental part of Croatia, approximately 160 kilometers (about 100 miles) from the nearest point on the Adriatic coast. Because of its inland location, there are no seas, ports, or ferry terminals in Zagreb.

To board a ferry to popular islands like Hvar, Brač, Korčula, or Cres, you must first travel from Zagreb to a major coastal city. The three primary ferry hubs accessible from Zagreb are Rijeka, Zadar, and Split.

How to Get from Zagreb to the Croatian Islands

Your journey is a two-step process: travel from Zagreb to a coastal port, and then take a ferry to your chosen island. The best port for you depends on which island group you wish to visit.

• For Kvarner Islands (Cres, Krk, Rab): Go to Rijeka.
• For North Dalmatian Islands (Dugi Otok, Kornati): Go to Zadar.
• For Central Dalmatian Islands (Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula): Go to Split.

Zagreb to Split: The Gateway to Dalmatia

Split is the most popular choice for travelers heading to the famous Dalmatian islands. It is the largest city on the Croatian coast and has the most extensive network of ferry and catamaran connections.

Distance from Zagreb: Approximately 410 km.

By Bus from Zagreb to Split

This is the most popular and often most efficient method.

• Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours.
• Price: €25 - €40 one-way.
• Operators: Major companies include FlixBus and Arriva.
• Frequency: Buses run very frequently, often every hour, especially during the summer season.
• Departure Point: Zagreb Central Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb), located at Avenija Marina Držića 4.
• Insider Tip: The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and usually have Wi-Fi. Book your ticket online at least a week in advance for the best prices, particularly for travel between June and September.

By Train from Zagreb to Split

This option is more scenic but typically slower than the bus.

• Travel Time: 6 to 8 hours for daytime trains. There is also a night train option.
• Price: €20 - €35 one-way.
• Operator: Croatian Railways (Hrvatske željeznice - HŽ).
• Departure Point: Zagreb Main Railway Station (Glavni kolodvor), located at Trg kralja Tomislava 12.
• Insider Tip: While slower, the train journey cuts through the beautiful Lika region and offers stunning mountain scenery you won't see from the motorway. It can be a more relaxing experience.

Ferries from Split

Once you arrive at Split's bus or train station, the ferry port is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk away. Major ferry operators are Jadrolinija (for car ferries and larger catamarans) and Kapetan Luka - Krilo (for fast passenger-only catamarans).

• Popular Routes from Split: Split to Hvar, Split to Brač (Supetar & Bol), Split to Vis, Split to Korčula.
• Ticket Prices: Vary by route, from €6 for short trips to €25+ for longer catamaran journeys.

Zagreb to Rijeka: Your Route to the Kvarner Islands

Rijeka is the closest major port to Zagreb, making it the fastest option for reaching the northern Adriatic and the Kvarner islands.

Distance from Zagreb: Approximately 160 km.

By Bus from Zagreb to Rijeka

The journey is quick and straightforward.

• Travel Time: 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Price: €15 - €25 one-way.
• Operators: FlixBus, Arriva.
• Insider Tip: This route is so frequent that you can often buy a ticket just before departure, but booking ahead is still wise in peak season. The Rijeka bus station is centrally located, a short walk from the ferry port.

Ferries from Rijeka

Rijeka's port serves the large Kvarner islands, known for their lush greenery and Venetian-era towns.

• Popular Routes from Rijeka: Rijeka to Cres, Rijeka to Mali Lošinj, Rijeka to Rab, Rijeka to Pag (Novalja).

Zagreb to Zadar: Accessing the Northern Dalmatian Archipelago

Zadar is an excellent alternative to Split, offering access to a different set of stunning islands and the Kornati National Park.

Distance from Zagreb: Approximately 285 km.

By Bus from Zagreb to Zadar

This is the primary mode of transport for this route.

• Travel Time: 3.5 to 4 hours.
• Price: €20 - €30 one-way.
• Operators: FlixBus, Arriva.
• Insider Tip: Zadar's main bus station is about a 20-minute walk or a short taxi/Uber ride from the old town and the city ferry port (Gaženica port for car ferries is further out, check your ticket).

Ferries from Zadar

Zadar is the launching point for quieter, less-crowded islands and spectacular natural parks.

• Popular Routes from Zadar: Zadar to Dugi Otok, Zadar to Ugljan, and numerous boat excursions to Kornati National Park.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Journey from Zagreb to the Sea

1. Book in Advance: During the high season (June-August), both bus and ferry tickets can sell out. Use online portals like GetByBus for buses and the official Jadrolinija or Krilo websites for ferries. 2. Match Your Port to Your Island: Don't just travel to the closest port. Decide which island you want to visit first, then plan your bus or train journey from Zagreb to the corresponding port city. 3. Allow for Buffer Time: Plan to arrive in the port city at least 2-3 hours before your ferry's departure. This gives you time to manage any travel delays, find the terminal, buy snacks, and board without stress. 4. Consider a Car Rental: Renting a car in Zagreb provides the most flexibility. The A1 motorway connecting Zagreb to Zadar and Split is modern and efficient. This allows you to explore the coast at your own pace and take a car ferry to certain islands.