Naples to Split Road Trip: Ferry, Coastal Roads, and Hidden Gems

The shortest sea crossing between Italy and Croatia is the 90-nautical-mile ferry from Ancona to Split, but driving from Naples adds a 300 km leg north along the A14 to the port. This combo of Italian autostrada and Adriatic ferry offers a scenic shortcut avoiding the longer coastal drive through Slovenia and Istria.

The A14 highway hugs the Apennine foothills, providing sweeping views of the Adriatic on clear days. The ferry crossing takes 9–11 hours overnight, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking to sleep while crossing the sea.

This guide answers how long to drive Naples to Split and is it worth driving Naples to Split (yes, for flexibility and scenery). It covers things to do between Naples and Split, including how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The primary route from Naples to Ancona uses the A1/A30 north to Rome, then A1 to Orte, then A14 east to Ancona. However, a faster alternative (2 h 45 min to Rome) is the A1 from Naples (Caserta) to Rome, then A1 to Orte, then A14 to Ancona. Total tolls: about €22 for the A14 section (Orte–Ancona) plus Naples–Rome tolls (~€8).

The A14 between Civitanova Marche and Ancona runs close to the coast, offering rest stops with Adriatic views. The ferry from Ancona to Split operates year-round by Jadrolinija and SNAV; a car and two passengers cost €80–€150 depending on season and cabin.

Fuel station distribution: Every 30–50 km on the A14, with self-service pumps open 24/7. Diesel averages €1.70/L in Italy, petrol €1.90/L. For the 390 km drive, a mid-size car uses ~30 L (€50–€57). Fuel efficiency tip: use cruise control on the mostly flat A14 to save up to 10%.

Toll payment: Italian motorways use a ticket system; pay with cash or card at the exit barrier. The A14 is well-lit at night, with emergency phones every 2 km.

Road quality: Excellent asphalt on the A1 and A14; the final 10 km to Ancona port is city traffic. Toll gates have dedicated lanes for Telepass, but cash works fine. Best stops Naples to Split include the medieval hill town of Ascoli Piceno (detour 15 min from A14 exit) and the Conero Riviera park near Ancona.

The drive crosses three distinct landscapes: the volcanic Campania plain (Mt. Vesuvius visible on clear days), the rolling hills of Lazio (vineyards and olive groves), and the Marche coast (cliffs and coves). The A14 offers glimpses of the Sibillini Mountains to the west.

Geographical highlights: The Gran Sasso massif (Italy’s highest Apennine peak) is visible from the A14 near Teramo. A short detour to the Laga Mountains (25 min from exit ‘Ascoli Piceno-Teramo’) offers waterfalls and beech forests.

• UNESCO Sites: Two within a 30-min detour: Ferrara (add 1 h from Bologna), and Matera (3 h from Naples, but further). Directly on route: The historic center of Ascoli Piceno (UNESCO tentative list) is worth a 1-h stop.
• Local Crafts: In the Marche region, visit the ceramic workshops of Pesaro or the paper mill in Fabriano (detour 15 min from A14 exit Fabriano).
• Roadside Delicacies: Olive Ascolane (stuffed fried olives) are a local specialty sold at autogrills near Ascoli. Also, try Vincisgrassi (lasagna-like dish) at trattorias along the A14.

The ferry crossing to Split itself is a highlight: watch the Dalmatian islands emerge at sunrise if you take the night crossing. The approach to Split’s harbor offers a stunning view of Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage site) directly from the sea.

Road safety: The A14 is well-maintained, but watch for fog near the Apennine tunnels (especially in autumn). Speed cameras are frequent; the limit is 130 km/h. At night, some sections lack continuous lighting, but reflectors are present. Emergency services: dial 112 from any phone.

Family suitability: The Falconara Riviera (exit Ancona Sud) has sandy beaches and a children’s playground. The 'Città dei Bambini' indoor play center in Civitanova Marche is a good rainy-day stop. On the ferry, kids can enjoy the game room and deck.

Pet-friendly stops: Most A14 service areas have designated pet walking areas with waste bags. The 'Agriturismo La Casa Nella Foresta' near Civitanova allows dogs in its restaurant. On the ferry, pets stay in the car deck for foot passengers, but some cabins allow small pets.

Fatigue management: Ideal rest spots include the 'Area di Servizio Chienti' (km 220 A14) with a large parking lot and a café. For a nap, use the 'Area di Parcheggio' at km 250 (northbound) which is quiet and shaded. The ferry provides reclining seats and cabins; booking a cabin is recommended for a proper sleep before arriving in Split at 7–8 am.

• Hidden Off-Route Gem: The abandoned village of Fiuminata (5 min from A14 exit 'Civitanova Ovest') has a 14th-century castle ruin visible from the highway.
• Local Market: Every Wednesday morning in Ancona's Piazza della Repubblica, a market sells fresh truffles and Marche wines.
• Scenic Sunset: Stop at the viewpoint overlooking the Conero promontory (immediately north of Ancona) around 7 pm in summer.