Hvar is one of the most famous islands in Croatia and we travel to it each year at least a few times. We live just opposite Hvar and wake up with the view of this magnificent island. Many people staying in Dubrovnik plan on visiting Hvar too. We have been working with travelers who visit Croatia for almost a decade now, and most of those who stay in Dubrovnik plan to continue their exploration of Croatia and visit locations like Hvar, Split, Krka National Park, and so on. So here’s how to get from Dubrovnik to Hvar and what are the pros and cons of each way of transport.
As you will see from this article, there are 4 most common ways to travel from Dubrovnik to Hvar, and which one to choose depends on your preferences and the travel style you like. Hvar and Dubrovnik are places that are a bit further away, but traveling between them is easy and won’t last long in most cases. So here are the most common ways to reach Hvar from Dubrovnik.
1. Direct Catamaran from Dubrovnik to Hvar (Best Option) The first option is the most used one, and that is the fast passenger ferry known as the catamaran. During the high season in Croatia, these fast catamarans operate between Dubrovnik and Hvar and are the most convenient and scenic way to travel between these two destinations. Along the way, you have the chance to enjoy the coastline of Croatian islands such as Mljet and Korčula which are usual stops for these speed ferries too.
Operators: TP Line, JadrolinijaDuration: Around 3.5 to 4 hours Availability: Only during the season, usually from April to October Departure Point: Dubrovnik Gruž PortArrival Point: Hvar Town PortBest For: Anyone looking for a direct and scenic journey from Dubrovnik to Hvar .
Pros & Cons of Taking the Catamaran Pros Cons Direct, no transfers needed Only available in high season Scenic journey Limited daily departures Comfortable ride Can be affected by rough seas
2. Private Speedboat Transfer (Fastest and Most Luxurious Option) Similar speed to a catamaran, but with way fewer stops (unless you want them) and with no crowds at all. Private speedboat transfer from Dubrovnik to Hvar is the best option for those looking for a fast and luxurious way to travel between these destinations.
Duration: Around 3 hours (depending on sea conditions and whether you want to stop along the way)Best Option For: Small groups, couples, or families who want a private and flexible experience.Stops Along the Way: Some of these private transfers can stop at places like Korčula, Mljet, or Pakleni Islands .Cost: €600-€1200 , depending on the boat, season, and location visited along the way.
Pros & Cons of Private Speedboat Pros Cons The fastest way to travel from Dubrovnik to Hvar Expensive Private and customizable Can be affected by rough seas Possible scenic stops Limited availability in bad weather
3. Dubrovnik to Split + Ferry to Hvar (Budget-Friendly Option) This next option of traveling from Dubrovnik to Hvar combines traveling by land with the scenic ferry ride from Split to Hvar. First, you need to take the bus or drive to Split, the second-largest city in Croatia. Split is a hub from which ferries leave for numerous Croatian islands located on this part of the coastline. In Split, you have the option to board a car ferry that will take you to Stari Grad, or a catamaran that will take you to Hvar Town.
Step-by-Step Route:
Dubrovnik to Split – Take a bus or drive from Dubrovnik to Split (cca 3-4 hours ).Split to Hvar – Take a catamaran from Split to Hvar Town (1 hour ).
Why Choose This Option?
Split to Hvar line has more frequent departures to Hvar compared to direct ferries from Dubrovnik.Buses from Dubrovnik to Split run several times daily, and they are especially frequent during the summer season.There are also multiple ferry options from Split to Hvar .
Pros & Cons of Bus + Ferry via Split
4. Guided Tour from Dubrovnik to Hvar Finally, you can choose to visit Hvar from Dubrovnik via one of the day trips. Check whether such trips are available from Dubrovnik and what they include. You can also book via agencies or online and have the option to choose between land-based day trips to Hvar or speedboat tours from Dubrovnik to Hvar.
Duration: Full-day tour (morning to evening)Stops: Often include Hvar, Pakleni Islands, and Korčula .Best For: Travelers wanting a day tour instead of an overnight stay in Hvar .Cost: Approximately €100-€150 per person .
Pros & Cons of a Guided Tour Pros Cons Includes sightseeing along the way Fixed schedule, less flexibility No stress about logistics More expensive than a ferry Great for first-time visitors Shorter time available in Hvar
Which Option Is Best for You? All of these options are great ways to travel between Dubrovnik and Hvar and we’re sure you’ve already found the best way of reaching Hvar for you. Here are all the ways of transport between these destinations summarized in a table.
Transport Option Best For Duration Cost Direct Catamaran Convenience & no transfers 3.5 – 4 hours €45-€60 Private Speedboat Luxury & fastest travel 3 hours €600-€1200 Bus + Ferry via Split Budget travelers 5-6 hours €30-€50 Guided Tour Sightseeing & day trips Full day €100-€150
Before You Venture From Dubrovnik to Hvar Hvar is truly a beautiful place and it’s not strange many people choose it as their vacation destination in Croatia. If you are starting your Croatian adventure in Dubrovnik and want to keep on traveling to other destinations, Hvar should be on your list. Depending on how many days of vacation you have, your itinerary could look something like Dubrovnik – Korčula – Hvar – Split if you want to explore only Dalmatia. The options are numerous, but we believe that Croatian islands are something that will become a highlight of your vacation in Croatia.
Enjoy this beautiful country!
