HŽ network — main routes
HŽ (Hrvatske Željeznice) runs the national network:
- - Zagreb → Split: 5h40–6h, 2–3 trains daily
- - Zagreb → Rijeka: 2h30–3h
- - Zagreb → Osijek: 3h30
- - Zagreb → Ljubljana (Slovenia): 2h15
- - Zagreb → Budapest: 6h
- - Zagreb → Vienna: 6h30
- - Zagreb → Belgrade: 6h
Note: Dubrovnik has no rail connection — bus from Split (4.5h) is the only option.
The Zagreb–Split line
The line from Zagreb to Split is exceptional:
Leaving Zagreb, the train climbs into the Lika plateau — sparse karst landscape, rocky hills, and forests. The most dramatic section is the descent toward Knin and the Krka River gorge, where the train winds through tunnels and bridges above the canyon. The final approach to Split reveals the Adriatic coast and the islands.
Book ahead: Only 2–3 trains daily run this route. Seats sell out in summer — book on hzpp.hr at least a week ahead.
Night train: One overnight train runs Zagreb–Split — arriving in Split early morning is a bonus (hotels allow early check-in at Split station).
City highlights
Zagreb — Croatia's underrated capital. The Upper Town (Gornji Grad), the Dolac market, and the Museum of Broken Relationships (genuinely excellent). 2 nights.
Split — Diocletian's Palace (a Roman emperor's retirement home turned medieval city, 1,700 years of continuous habitation) is one of the most remarkable historic sites in Europe. Base for Hvar and Brač by ferry. 2–3 nights.
Rijeka — Gateway to the Kvarner Gulf and the island of Krk. Less touristed than Split but a vibrant port city with a good carnival tradition. 1 night.
Pula (bus from Rijeka, 2h) — Roman amphitheatre in nearly perfect condition, still used for concerts. A worthwhile detour in the Istrian peninsula.
Practical tips
Coastal travel by bus: Dubrovnik, Zadar, and the Dalmatian islands are not served by rail — Flixbus and Croatia Bus connect the coast efficiently.
Ferries from Split: Jadrolinija ferries connect Split to Hvar (1h), Brač (1h), and overnight to Ancona in Italy. Eurail covers the Ancona ferry.
Eurail coverage: All HŽ trains are covered. No mandatory reservations on most domestic services.
Summer prices: Croatia is increasingly expensive in July–August — book accommodation in Split 3+ months ahead.
Plan your Croatian rail journey
EuroTrekker builds your Croatia itinerary with real HŽ connections from Zagreb to Split and the Adriatic coast.