The Balkans is one place in Europe where train travel is lacking, however there are still some truly incredible journeys to be had. I recently took the Split to Zagreb train after arriving in Croatia on the ferry from Italy.
Key Takeaway: There are four trains from Split to Zagreb each day; 2 daytime services and 2 overnight services. Tickets cost €16 and the journey time is 6-8 hours.
The train from Split to Zagreb is a modern one and the journey is incredibly scenic. I’ve travelled up and down the Dalmatian coast many times by bus however the overland route across Croatia is equally impressive with stunning mountain views.
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Why Take the Train
- The cheapest way to get from Split to Zagreb (just €16)
- Incredibly scenic views of the Croatian countryside and mountains
- Modern and comfortable train
- Take the overnight train to save on accommodation
- Depart from the centre of Split
- Arrive in the centre of Zagreb
Split to Zagreb Train Ticket Price and Timetable
| Train No | Depart Split | Arrive Zagreb | Duration | Price |
| 520 | 08:14 | 14:55 | 6h41m | €15.82 |
| 522 | 14:09 | 20:57 | 6h48m | €15.82 |
| 1841 | 20:59 | 05:40 | 8h41m | €14.94 |
| 1881 | 22:18 | 06:22 | 8h04m | €14.94 |
It costs an extra €7 for a couchette on the overnight trains.
How to Book
You can buy tickets for the Split Zagreb train at the station in Split. However, the service can sell out quickly in summer (especially for the overnight trains) so it’s best to book online in advance.
You can book direct on the official Croatian Railways website and there is no booking fee. Click here to book. When booking you can choose your seat and which coach you want to be in.
Getting to Split
Split is easily reachable from the rest of Croatia by bus. There are also buses to Split from Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina and ferries from Ancona in Italy (I’ve arrived in Split all these ways over the years).
Getting to the Railway Station
Split Railway Station is right across from the main port and next to the bus station. It’s just five minutes from Diocletian’s Palace and the old town, making it super easy to get to.
Address: Split Railway Station, 21000, Split, Croatia. Click here for directions.
Facilities at the Station
The railway station at Split has certainly seen better days. There is a main ticket office (no air-con) although the staff do speak English.
- Ticket office
- Lockers
- ATM
Next to the station there are lots of bars, cafes and kiosks selling food and drinks.
The Train
The daytime Split to Zagreb train is formed of four coaches and the overnight train is formed of seven. I took the 14:09 service and the seats were comfortable. I choose a single seat when I booked so I didn’t have to share with anyone.
After leaving Split the train headed up into the mountains offering stunning views of the city and Dalmatian coastline. We then headed inland and higher into the mountains with equally impressive views. The train stops frequently at small provincial stations.
Arriving in Zagreb
Zagreb Railway Station is right in the centre of the city so it’s easy to get to your accommodation if you’re staying somewhere central (see below for my recommendations).
Address: Zagreb Railway Station, 10110, Zagreb, Croatia. Click here for directions.
Things to Do in Zagreb
Croatia’s charming capital Zagreb often gets overlooked in favour of coastal towns and cities and the many wonderful islands throughout the country. However it’s definitely worth spending a few days exploring the old town and places of interest. I’ve been to Zagreb twice now and will no doubt return.
Top things to do:
- Explore the Old (Upper) Town
- See Zagreb Cathedral
- Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
- Shop at Dolac Market
- Stroll around Maksimir Park
Where to Stay in Zagreb
I’ve stayed at three hostels in Zagreb. Hostel Temza, Himalayan and Main Square (the best). I’ve also added a couple of other options if you’re not one for dorms. If you want a more comprehensive guide, check out this guide on where to stay in Zagreb.
Budget
Main Square: On my last visit to Zagreb I stayed Hostel Main Square which was excellent and right in the centre of town. Click here to book with Hostelworld.
Mid-range
Timeout Heritage Hotel: This 4-star hotel is in the centre of the city and has a bar, restaurant and terrace. Rooms come with air-con, en-suite, flatscreen TV and free toiletries. Click here to book.
Want to Get to Zagreb the Quickest Way?
The Split to Zagreb bus takes just five hours, though it is more expensive than the train. The journey along the Dalmatian coast is one of the most incredible you’ll ever do, and I’ve done it three or four times now. Click here to book the bus with Flixbus.
You can also hire a car and drive yourself. Our partner Discover Cars has excellent rates for car hire in Croatia. Click here to find out more.
Split to Zagreb Train FAQs
There are four direct trains from Split to Zagreb every day. Two daytime services and two overnight services.
The train from Split to Zagreb takes between 6 and 8 hours. The daytime trains take around 6 hours and the overnight trains nearer to 8.
The fastest way from Split to Zagreb is to drive or take the bus. The bus takes around 5 hours (and is very scenic). Click here to book with Flixbus.
There are two night trains from Split to Zagreb. The first leaves Split at 20:59 and arrives in Zagreb at 5:40 the next morning, and the second leaves Split at 22:18 and arrives in Zagreb at 6:22.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to get from Split to Zagreb by train, all that’s left is to book the ticket and enjoy the ride. Croatia is one of my favourite destinations in Europe and I can’t wait to get back.
You might like my other articles about Croatia:
About the author:
Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has travelled to over 60 countries, lived in China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.
Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of Europe and Asia by train, bus and boat.
Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲