Split to Polignano a Mare Road Trip: Best Stops & Guide

The drive from Split to Polignano a Mare spans roughly 550 kilometers, crossing two countries and winding along the stunning Dalmatian and Apulian coasts. The route largely follows the A1 highway in Croatia and the E55 coastal road through Bosnia and Herzegovina before hitting the A14 in Italy. A peculiar detail: near Neum in Bosnia, you briefly exit the EU, so keep your passport handy—this 9-kilometer strip of coastline is Bosnia’s only access to the sea.

When planning your journey, two main options exist: the coastal drive via Neum (Bosnia) and Dubrovnik, then a ferry to Bari, or the inland route via motorways. The coastal route is more scenic but requires a ferry crossing. Here’s a breakdown of logistics.

• Highways: A1 from Split to near Dubrovnik (toll road), then D8 coastal road, and A14 in Italy.
• Ferry: Jadrolinija or SNAV from Dubrovnik to Bari (4 hours, book ahead).
• Fuel costs: Croatia €1.50/L, Bosnia €1.30/L, Italy €1.80/L (approx).
• Tolls: Croatia tolls around €15 for Split-Dubrovnik; Italy tolls about €10 for Bari-Polignano.

Road quality varies: Croatian motorways are excellent, Bosnia’s Neum corridor is narrow and winding, Italian autostrade are well-maintained. For families, the ferry is a fun break; onboard, kids enjoy the open decks and small play areas. Pets are allowed on most ferries with a leash and muzzle. Fatigue management is key—plan rest stops at Omiš (Croatia) or at the Adriatic gas stations. For detailed advice on finding stops, check this guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

• Safety tips: Keep headlights on in Bosnia (legal), watch for sudden fog in the Gargano.
• Child-friendly stops: Aquapark in Duće (Croatia), Safari Park in Fasano (Italy).
• Pet-friendly stops: Designated rest areas with grassy patches near Autogrill stations in Italy.

The route offers contrasting natural beauty: from the rugged Dinaric Alps of Croatia to the turquoise Adriatic and the flat olive groves of Puglia. Along the way, you’ll pass two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic center of Split (Diocletian’s Palace) and the old town of Dubrovnik. Don’t miss the stingray-shaped peninsula of Polignano a Mare, with its dramatic limestone cliffs.

• Best natural stops: Plitvice Lakes (detour), Krka Waterfalls, and the Gargano National Park (Italy).
• Local commerce: Dalmatian prosciutto, Pag cheese, and olive oil in Croatia; orecchiette pasta and mozzarella in Puglia.
• Hidden gems: The town of Neum (Bosnia’s only seaside resort) and the Trulli of Alberobello (near Polignano).