Train Travel

Croatia’s Railway Network

The national railway company, Hrvatske Željeznice (HŽ), operates Croatia’s train services. The railway system is centered around Zagreb, the capital, which serves as the main hub for both domestic and international connections. While the coastal areas have fewer train routes, inland cities are well-connected.

Domestic Train Routes

Croatia’s domestic railway network provides connections between major cities and regions. Some of the most popular routes include:

• Zagreb to Split – This is one of the most scenic and frequently used routes, linking the capital to the Adriatic coast. The journey takes approximately 6.5 hours on a daytime InterCity (IC) train or 8 hours on a night train.

• Zagreb to Rijeka – The train from Zagreb to the important port city of Rijeka takes about 4.5 hours.

• Zagreb to Osijek – This route connects central Croatia to the eastern region of Slavonia, with a travel time of 5 hours and 20 minutes.

International Train Routes

Croatia has several railway connections to neighboring countries:

• Zagreb to Ljubljana, Slovenia – A direct and convenient route linking the two capitals.

• Zagreb to Budapest, Hungary – A great option for travelers heading to or from Hungary.

• Seasonal connections – During the summer months, additional services operate between Split and major European cities like Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, and Krakow.

Train Travel Tips

• Reservations – Some InterCity and night trains require reservations, so it’s best to check in advance.

• Scenic Routes – The journey from Zagreb to Split is particularly picturesque, offering stunning views of the Croatian countryside.

• Alternative Transport – Cities like Dubrovnik do not have train stations, so a combination of train and bus travel is often necessary.

Buying Tickets and Checking Schedules

For up-to-date train schedules and ticket prices, visit the official website of Hrvatske Željeznice (HŽ) or check local train stations.

Conclusion

Train travel in Croatia is a great way to explore the country at a relaxed pace while enjoying beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re traveling domestically or connecting to nearby European destinations, Croatia’s rail network offers a comfortable and affordable option for travelers.