Split Airport and its advantages for travelers

Set between Split and the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir, Split Airport (SPU) places passengers at the heart of the Dalmatian coast. Located just off the A1 motorway and close to the Split ferry port, the airport is a practical gateway for island-hopping and exploring mainland Croatia without long overland detours. Its compact terminal, frequent transport links and broad network of European flights make it an efficient starting point for a beach holiday, a national park adventure or a city break.

Where Split Airport sits and why it matters

The airport lies near Kaštela, roughly 24 km from Split’s city center and about 6 km from Trogir. That positioning means travelers can check out of the terminal and reach medieval stone streets, seafront promenades and island ferries in under an hour, even in peak season. From the Split ferry port, regular sailings connect to Hvar, Brač, Vis, Šolta and Korčula, enabling a smooth air-to-sea connection for those planning multi-destination itineraries. For drivers, the proximity to the A1 provides fast north–south access to national parks and coastal towns, minimizing time lost in traffic-prone urban zones.

• Official airport information: Split Airport
• Ferry timetables: Jadrolinija

Countries and cities with direct flights

Split Airport welcomes a wide seasonal network of flights across Europe, alongside year-round connections that keep the region accessible outside summer. Direct routes typically operate from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Ireland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and the Nordic countries, among others. Domestic links with Zagreb help passengers connect onward to regional destinations and long-haul flights. Major and low-cost airlines serve SPU, while Croatia Airlines provides core national connectivity and convenient interline options.

• National carrier: Croatia Airlines

Distances and typical travel times

Travel times vary by traffic and season, but the following estimates help plan your first hour on the ground:

• Split old town (Diocletian’s Palace): about 24 km, 30–40 minutes by car.
• Trogir: about 6 km, 10–15 minutes.
• Šibenik: about 60 km, 50–60 minutes via A1.
• Zadar: about 150 km, 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours via A1.
• Makarska: about 85 km, 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
• Dubrovnik: about 230 km, roughly 3 to 4 hours, depending on conditions.
• Krka National Park (Lozovac entrance): about 60 km, 55 minutes.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: about 250 km, around 3 hours.

These ranges reflect normal daytime traffic; departures very early in the day or late at night can shave off several minutes per segment.

Passenger experience at the terminal

The modern terminal is straightforward to navigate, keeping walking time short from security check to the gate. Facilities include check-in counters and self-service kiosks, fast-food outlets and cafés, ATMs, currency exchange and free water fountains. Car rental desks sit landside so drivers can complete paperwork without baggage claim becoming a bottleneck. Wi‑Fi helps passengers monitor their flight status, and clear signage in English improves wayfinding. During peak hours in summer, allow extra time for check-in and security to ensure a relaxed boarding experience.

Transport options from the airport

Private car transfer with a professional driver

For travelers prioritizing time, comfort and door-to-door service, a pre-booked private transfer is the most efficient choice; choosing the right Split Airport taxi service ensures a smooth ride. Vehicles range from standard cars and spacious minibuses to VIP sedans and full-size buses for groups. Benefits include real-time flight monitoring, included child seats on request, fixed prices with all tolls and taxes, and direct routing to your accommodation. This option is ideal when arriving late at night or when carrying sports gear or multiple suitcases.

Shuttle service and airport bus

A dedicated airport bus links the terminal with Split city center, with departures coordinated around flight arrivals. Travel time is typically 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. For travelers heading west, local buses connect quickly to Trogir, making it a budget-friendly hop after landing.

Car rental

Car rental remains a flexible way to explore coastal towns, hinterland wineries and lesser-known viewpoints at your own pace. Pre-booking ensures the right vehicle class and lowers the chance of a last-minute queue. If you plan to visit islands, check rental policies regarding ferries and insurance before you travel.

Taxi and ride-hailing

Metered taxis line up outside the terminal. They are convenient for short hops to nearby towns, though prices can rise during peak hours. Ride-hailing availability varies; always confirm pickup points and expected wait times before exiting the terminal, and for longer routes such as Split Airport to Novalja, pre-booking can be more reliable.

Why travelers choose Zadar Airport Transfer for Split Airport rides

Although branded around Zadar, Zadar Airport Transfer operates across Dalmatia and is frequently chosen for Split Airport journeys because of its value-for-money mix of reliability, comfort and transparent pricing. The company offers a broad fleet—standard cars for solo travelers and couples, minibuses for families and small groups, premium vehicles for VIP travel, and full-size buses for events. Professional, English-speaking drivers meet passengers in the arrivals hall, provide assistance with luggage and adjust pickup time if a flight is delayed at the last minute. Online booking with secure payment keeps costs predictable, and every quote includes tolls, taxes and waiting time, so there are no surprises at the end of the ride. For itineraries that combine Split, Trogir, Šibenik, Zadar, island ferry transfers, or family stays at Zaton Holiday Resort, having one transport partner simplifies planning and reduces the risk of missed connections.

For broader trip inspiration and practical travel tips across Croatia, consult the national tourism portal at croatia.hr.