As of 2026, there is no direct train connecting Split and Dubrovnik. The Croatian rail network historically ends in Split; the rugged, mountainous terrain of the Dalmatian coast has made extending the tracks to Dubrovnik financially and geographically difficult. Most travelers in 2026 choose the high-speed catamaran (ferry), which takes about 4.5 to 5 hours and offers stunning views of the Adriatic islands like Hvar and Korčula. Alternatively, the bus remains the most frequent and affordable land-based option, taking roughly 3.5 to 4 hours along the scenic D8 coastal highway. While there have been long-standing discussions about a "Pelješac Bridge" railway or a high-speed link, no such project has materialized. If you are determined to use a train for part of the journey, the closest you can get is Ploče, which is still about 100km (62 miles) north of Dubrovnik and requires a bus transfer. For the most efficient and scenic transfer between these two iconic cities, the seasonal ferry is almost universally recommended by locals and travel experts.