How to Get to Murter Island – A Traveler's Guide

Murter Island, located in the central part of the Adriatic, is one of the most accessible island destinations in Croatia.
Thanks to the bridge in Tisno that connects the island to the mainland, you can reach Murter by car without the need for a ferry.
Below, we provide all transport options for getting to Murter, including travel by car, bus, boat, train, and plane.

By Car – The Fastest and Most Convenient Way to Get There

Murter Island is easily accessible by car and is connected to the mainland via a movable bridge in Tisno. The main roads leading there are the A1 motorway (Zagreb – Split) and the Adriatic Highway.

Route from Zagreb

If you’re traveling from Zagreb, the fastest route is via the A1 motorway (E65) towards Split. Take the exit for Pirovac and continue driving towards Tisno. After crossing the movable bridge in Tisno, you’ll be on Murter Island.

Route from Zadar and Split

From Zadar (65 km): Take the Adriatic Highway (D8) to Pirovac, then turn towards Tisno and continue to Murter.

From Split (115 km): Take the A1 motorway to the Pirovac exit and continue towards the island.

Parking on Murter

Murter has a limited number of parking spaces, especially during the summer months. Most popular beaches and tourist spots have organized parking zones that charge a fee.
You can find toll prices at www.hac.hr/hr/cestarina/cjenik

Recommended driving apps and services:

HAK app – Shows real-time road conditions, speed traps, fuel prices, parking, and nearby gas stations. More info at: www.hak.hr

Distances to Murter from major European cities (approximate, depending on route):

Zagreb – 340 km
Budapest – 680–770 km
Vienna – 690–720 km
Zurich – 1000–1100 km
Rome – approx. 1100 km
Berlin – 1300–1400 km
Munich – 780–800 km

Book your accommodation in advance to secure the best spot for enjoying the crystal-clear sea in Murter – online.

By Bus – Regular Lines from All Major Cities in Croatia

Murter is connected by bus to major Croatian cities such as Zagreb, Šibenik, Zadar, and Split.

Bus routes to Murter:

Zagreb – Murter: Several daily departures from Zagreb’s main bus station to Šibenik and Murter.
Šibenik – Murter: A local line covering the 35 km distance between Šibenik and Murter.
Zadar – Murter: 60 km distance, about 1.5 hours’ drive.
Split – Murter: 105 km, with a transfer in Šibenik

You can find bus ticket prices and schedules at: https://www.akz.hr/

By Boat – Connections with Italy and Dalmatian Islands

Although Murter does not have direct ferry lines, you can arrive by boat via nearby ports Zadar and Split, and continue your journey by land.

International ferry lines:

Ancona–Zadar (duration: 6 hours)
Ancona–Split (duration: 9 hours)
Check the sailing schedule and book tickets at: www.jadrolinija.hr

By Train – Via Šibenik Station

Murter is not directly connected to the railway network. The nearest train station is in Šibenik. From there, you can take a bus to Murter (35 km).
Check train timetables and purchase tickets at: www.hznet.hr

By Plane – Nearest Airports and Transfers

The closest airports are:

Zadar Airport – approx. 60 km from Murter
Split Airport – approx. 100 km from Murter
Zagreb Airport – for international flights (approx. 330 km from Murter)

Flights and transport to Murter:

From Zadar and Split, bus lines, taxis, or rent-a-car services are available.
Croatia Airlines and other international airlines offer seasonal and regular flights to Croatia.

Flight info and bookings:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ferry to get to Murter?
No, Murter is connected to the mainland by a bridge in Tisno, so no ferry is required. You can reach the island directly by car or bus.

What’s the fastest way to get to Murter?
The fastest way is by car via the A1 motorway (Pirovac exit, approx. 3-hour drive from Zagreb). Alternatively, fly to Zadar or Split, then continue by taxi or rental car.

If you’re traveling from Germany, Italy, Austria, or other nearby countries, flying is the fastest option, followed by a bus, taxi, or car rental.

How much does it cost to travel from Zagreb to Murter?
Approximate travel costs depending on transport (subject to change):

Car: Toll ~€20, fuel €35–50
Bus: Ticket €20–30
Plane: €50–150, plus airport transfer to Murter

Conclusion – What’s the Best Way to Reach Murter?

If you’re coming from Croatia or neighboring countries, driving is the fastest and most practical option – especially since no ferry is needed.
For travelers from more distant destinations, flying is your best bet, followed by a bus, taxi, or rental car.
If you prefer a slower-paced journey, you can combine train and bus via Šibenik or even ferry routes from Italy to Split or Zadar if you’re coming from across the Adriatic.

Need accommodation on Murter?
Browse apartments, villas, or mobile homes to find the perfect place for your stay.

How to Get to Murter Island – A Traveler’s Guide