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A train holiday in Croatia from Zagreb to Split is a great way to experience the country’s varied landscapes. From the interior to the Dalmatian coast, you travel through a diverse region in around six hours. This train journey offers a comfortable and sustainable alternative to driving. Find out how to plan this trip in the best way and what you can expect along the way.
The train journey from Zagreb to Split: what can you expect?
The railway line between the Croatian capital Zagreb and the coastal city of Split is one of Europe’s beautiful routes. The journey takes between six and eight hours, depending on the service you choose. During that time, the scenery is constantly changing. You leave the more Central European character of Zagreb and travel through the green hills of the interior. The highlight of the route is the passage through the Dinaric Alps and the Lika region. Here you are treated to views of rugged karst landscapes, deep valleys and vast forests. It is a relaxing way to travel, giving you plenty of time to take in your surroundings.
The trains running on this route are modern InterCity services operated by Croatian Railways (Hrvatske željeznice or HŽ). They are equipped with air conditioning, which is a major advantage, especially in the warm summer months. The seats are comfortable and there is enough space for your luggage. Although on-board facilities can be limited, bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea. The journey is an experience in itself and a pleasant start to a holiday on the Adriatic coast.
‘ This is a great way to enrich your journey and see more than just the start and end points. ’
Tickets, journey times and smart planning
Good preparation is half the battle, especially if you want to get the most out of your train journey. There are several options for travelling from Zagreb to Split.
- Day trains (InterCity): There are usually two direct InterCity trains a day. The morning train leaves Zagreb at around half past seven, so you travel most of the route in daylight and can properly enjoy the scenery. The afternoon train leaves at around three o’clock.
- Night train: In high season (usually from April to October) there is also a night train. This is an efficient option if you want to save on travel time. You leave Zagreb late in the evening and arrive in Split early in the morning, ready to start your day.
Tickets are easiest to book via the official website of Croatian Railways, hzpp.hr. Prices for a second-class seat are usually between €23 and €35. Seat reservations are compulsory on InterCity and night trains, so make sure you select this when booking. Especially in the summer months, it is advisable to buy your tickets a few weeks in advance, as trains fill up quickly. If you are travelling with an Interrail or Eurail pass, it is valid on this route, but you will still need a seat reservation.
Combine the train journey with the Croatian islands
Arriving in Split is very convenient for travellers who want to continue their holiday on the Dalmatian islands. Split’s railway station is just a ten-minute walk from the port and bus station. From here, ferries depart to popular destinations such as Hvar, Brač and Vis. This smooth connection makes the train a practical choice for an island-hopping holiday. You step off the train, stroll to the harbour and can often catch a ferry the very same day. This saves you an expensive taxi ride or a complicated transfer.
Visit national parks along the way
The train route from Zagreb to Split also offers opportunities for a stopover to explore Croatia’s nature in more depth. One of the best options is a visit to Krka National Park. To do this, get off at Knin station. From Knin you can take a bus or taxi to the park entrance, which is famous for its waterfalls and clear lakes. Plan an overnight stay nearby so you can enjoy the park at a relaxed pace. The next day you can continue your train journey to Split. This is a great way to enrich your trip and see more than just the start and end points.
Budget-friendly travel to Croatia by train
Although there is no direct train connection from the Netherlands to Zagreb, the journey is perfectly doable with one or two changes. A popular and comfortable route is to take the night train to Vienna or Munich and then continue by train from there to Zagreb. Daytime travel is also an option, with scenic routes through Germany and Austria.
Book your international tickets as early as possible to keep costs down, ideally a few months in advance. Prices can vary significantly. For a longer trip through several countries, an Interrail pass can be a cost-effective option, as it gives you flexibility. Compare total travel costs and travel time with those of a flight. The train journey takes longer, but offers a relaxed start to your holiday. You avoid airport stress and can enjoy the landscapes along the way.
On the Traveler Tips website you will find plenty more information about train travel, route planning and beautiful destinations in Europe. Discover more and plan your next trip.
Frequently asked questions
The train journey from Zagreb to Split takes between 6 and 8 hours, depending on the type of train. There are two InterCity trains a day from Zagreb, departing at around 07:35 and 15:20–15:21. In high season (April–October) there are also night trains, which leave Zagreb at around 23:05. The route is roughly 258–413 km long and offers panoramic views.
For train tickets from Zagreb to Split, it is best to book via hzpp.hr for InterCity services and potniski.sz.si for night trains. The smart way to reserve is to book 1–2 months in advance, especially for night trains in summer, and to travel early in the day for the best views. Interrail/Eurail passes are valid, but require an additional reservation. Always check the current timetable on hzpp.hr.
The trains between Zagreb and Split offer comfortable carriages, and the night train has beds. Travellers can take large luggage free of charge and bicycles are allowed in the summer months. New air-conditioned trains have recently been introduced, and first class offers more spacious seating. On-board catering is limited, so it is advisable to bring your own snacks.
The train journey from Zagreb to Split offers stunning landscapes through the Croatian interior, with views of mountains, rivers and lakes. The most scenic sections of the route are between Split and Ogulin, and between Knin and Zadar. Along the way there are opportunities to stop in places such as Knin, which is ideal for a visit to the Krka waterfalls. This route is not only sustainable and relaxing, but also panoramic, from the hills around Zagreb to the Dalmatian coast.
To get the most out of a train journey and pack your luggage smartly, book night trains 1–2 months in advance and day trains early for daylight views. Make use of the new air-conditioned trains for extra comfort and bring snacks, as on-board facilities are often limited. Large luggage can be taken free of charge and in the summer months you can bring your bike. Always check current timetables via hzpp.hr for the latest information.