Train is a popular mode of transport in Croatia, although the train network isn't that extensive - it generally features most in inland Croatia, and far less so along the coast. Zagreb is, of course, the central hub of the train network, with a high frequency of routes to and from the capital. The two most useful coastal destinations connected to Zagreb by train are Rijeka and Split.

In comparison with Western Europe, tickets are inexpensive. There have also been upgrades of some of the track in recent years to improve journey times; for example, upgrade of the track between Zagreb and Split now means tilting trains can operate on the route which has reduced the journey time from its previously rather lengthy 9 hours to 5 and a 1/2 hours. (Not all trains from Zagreb to Split are the tilting version, so you will also find slower trains operating.)

Glavni Kolodvor, Zagreb - the main train station

Funnily enough, the upgrade of Croatia's road system and the construction of motorways has seen some train services reduced in frequency, as journey times by road have been reduced! For example, the Zagreb - Rijeka route, previously one of the busiest, has suffered in popularity as the relatively new motorway has reduced bus journey times to only 2 and 1/2 hours - the train takes 4 hours.

Overall, you will probably have more more options in Croatia if travelling by bus as the bus network is far more extensive. This is certainly the case if you are intending to travel along the coastline - alternatively, for a much more leisurely option in this case, take a ferry!

One more thing! To answer one of our more popular questions that we receive - there are no train services to Dubrovnik! (The town does not have a train station.)

Train journey times in Croatia
Here are the journey times for the more popular train routes in Croatia:

Zagreb - Rijeka: 4 hours
Zagreb - Split: 5 hours 50 minutes (fast train) or 8 hours 20 minutes (slow train)
Zagreb - Varazdin: 3 hours
Zagreb - Osijek: 4 hours 30 minutes
Zagreb - Vukovar: 4 hours
Rijeka - Osijek: 9 hours

Useful websites for rail travel in Croatia
Route, timetable and price details can be found at the following websites.

Croatia Railways
Die Bahn Useful timetable info from German Railways for both train journeys within Croatia and to Croatia, as well as routes across Europe

Booking train tickets in Croatia
The Croatian Railways website does not offer an online booking facility, although you can purchase tickets online on the Rail Europe website, for tickets at least 7 days in advance of travel. You can use the search box below to look at timetable and pricing information, as well as making bookings:

Alternatively, you shouldn't have any problems simply turning up on the day of travel and purchasing your ticket beforehand. You can also do this a few days in advance of your journey if you want to be on the safe side and guarantee a seat on a particular train.