If you are a solo traveler or a couple on a budget, a bus is perhaps your cheapest option to travel around Croatia. For larger groups and families, it can get as expensive as renting a car. You don't feel comfortable driving on Croatian roads.

The cheapest mode of transport in Croatia is almost universally the intercity bus network. Croatia lacks a comprehensive rail system, especially in the south toward Dubrovnik, making buses the lifeline of the country. Operators like Arriva, FlixBus, and Čazmatrans offer extensive routes connecting major hubs like Zagreb, Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik for as little as €10 to €20 if booked in advance. In 2026, many of these buses feature free Wi-Fi and power outlets, making them a relatively comfortable choice for the budget-conscious traveler. For local travel within cities, walking is the obvious free choice given the compact nature of Old Towns, but the local city bus networks are also very affordable. Another "budget secret" is the Jadrolinija local ferries; while high-speed catamarans can be pricey, the larger car ferries offer "deck passenger" tickets for island-hopping (like Split to Brač) at very low rates, allowing you to enjoy the Adriatic views for a fraction of the cost of a private boat or organized tour.