Split Airport

Split Airport, officially known as Saint Jerome Airport (Zračna luka Sveti Jeronim), is the main aerial gateway to Dalmatia, one of the most picturesque regions of Croatia. Located on the Adriatic coast, it serves as the starting point for thousands of travellers seeking azure waters, ancient cities, and sunny islands. Being the second busiest airport in the country, it offers convenient connectivity with dozens of European cities, especially during the summer season. Following the opening of a new modern terminal in 2019, the airport has become even more comfortable and functional for passengers.

Split Airport is distinguished by its compactness and easy navigation. Despite its relatively small size, it has everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight: several cafes, Duty Free shops, currency exchange points, ATMs, and souvenir shops. A comfortable business lounge is provided for business class passengers. Excellent transport links, including regular shuttles and city buses, allow you to quickly and affordably reach not only the centre of Split but also the neighbouring historic city of Trogir, which is just 6 km away. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is an ideal starting point for travelling along the entire Dalmatian coast.

For your convenience, we have compiled all necessary contact information for Split Airport. You can contact airport representatives to clarify details regarding flights, services, or in case of any questions.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found at www.split-airport.hr.
• Information Desk Phone: For information about flights and airport services, call +385 21 203 555.
• Airport Address: Cesta dr. Franje Tuđmana 1270, 21217 Kaštel Štafilić, Croatia.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the address informacije@split-airport.hr.
• Lost & Found: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, contact the service by phone at +385 21 203 509 or via email at lost.found@split-airport.hr.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on their official page on Facebook.

Reaching Split Airport, located approximately 25 km west of the city centre, is possible via several convenient methods. The choice of the optimal option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Whether you are planning a journey across beautiful Croatia or just beginning your acquaintance with the city of Split, getting to the terminal will be effortless.

Public Transport: Buses
The most popular and economical way is the shuttle bus operated by Pleso Prijevoz. These buses run between the airport and the main bus station in Split, located next to the ferry port and railway station. The shuttle schedule is usually coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. The trip takes about 30-40 minutes, and the ticket price is quite affordable. This is an excellent choice for most tourists. There is also a more budget-friendly but less convenient option — local bus No. 37, which follows the Split-Trogir route. It stops on the main road near the airport, so you will have to walk a short distance to the terminal. The travel time on this bus is about 50 minutes.

Taxi and Private Transfer
For those who value comfort and travel with a large amount of luggage, a taxi or a pre-booked transfer will be the ideal solution. The journey from the centre of Split to the airport takes about 30 minutes, but may take longer during peak season due to traffic. This is the most expensive method: the cost of a taxi ride will be significantly higher than a bus. To avoid price surprises, it is recommended to use official taxi services or popular apps, as well as consider booking a transfer online at a fixed price.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to actively explore the Dalmatian coast, car rental is a wonderful option. Desks of all major international and local rental companies are located at Split Airport. You can pick up the car immediately upon arrival or return it before departure. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, spacious parking is provided. It offers both short-term and long-term rates, which is convenient if you are leaving the car for several days.

Split Airport (SPU) features one modern passenger terminal, which was significantly expanded and modernized in 2019. This reconstruction allowed all operations to be consolidated under one roof, so you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings. The terminal serves both domestic and international flights, making its structure simple and clear for passengers.

The airport layout is very logical. The building has several levels, but two are key for passengers:

• Ground Floor — This is the arrivals area. Here you will find baggage claim belts, customs control, and in the public hall — car rental desks, tourist information centres, and airline offices.
• First Floor — This is the departures area. You come here for flight check-in, baggage drop, and pre-flight security screening.

Thanks to clear signage in Croatian and English, navigating the terminal causes no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The departure process is organized sequentially. After checking in on the first floor, you proceed to security control. If your flight is outside the Schengen area, passport control will also be required. After all formalities, you enter the spacious "airside zone" with Duty Free shops, cafes, bars, and comfortable waiting areas near the boarding gates.

Upon arriving in Split, you will follow a standard route: passport control (for passengers from non-Schengen countries), then descend to the ground floor to the baggage claim hall. After retrieving your suitcases, you will pass through the green or red customs channel and find yourself in the general arrivals area, where you can be met or where you will find taxis and buses to the city.

Regarding the time required to complete procedures, it depends heavily on the season. In summer, during peak tourist activity, the airport can be very busy. It is recommended to arrive at least 2.5–3 hours before an international flight and 1.5–2 hours before a domestic one. In the off-season, less time will be required, but it is always better to have a small buffer to avoid rushing.

The history of Split Airport (SPU) begins on 25 November 1966, when it was officially opened to serve the growing tourist flow on the Dalmatian coast. Originally designed to handle about 150,000 passengers per year, it quickly surpassed these expectations thanks to the rapid development of tourism in the region.

The first significant stage of expansion was the preparation for the 1979 Mediterranean Games, which were held in Split. For this event, a more spacious passenger terminal was built and the apron area was increased, allowing for a greater number of aircraft and significantly increasing capacity. This event established the airport as an important transport hub in Croatia.

In the early 1990s, due to well-known events in the region, the airport temporarily suspended civilian flights. However, after the situation stabilized, it resumed operations and began a period of rapid growth, driven by the revival of international tourism. Passenger traffic steadily increased, setting new records year after year.

The most extensive modernization in the airport's history was completed in the summer of 2019, when a completely new, modern terminal was opened. This allowed capacity to increase to 5 million passengers per year and raised the level of service to new heights. Thanks to this project, Split Airport was able to cope with the peak loads of the summer season and strengthened its position as the second busiest airport in the country.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the airport is also known as Resnik, named after the area where it is located. Additionally, it has military significance, serving as a base for the Croatian Air Force. Its location right by the sea makes landing and taking off especially picturesque, offering passengers stunning views of the Adriatic coast and islands.

Split Airport (SPU) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the modern terminal, you will easily find a place to have a snack or a full meal — several cafes, bars, and a restaurant are at your service. For those wishing to shop, stores are open, including Duty Free, where you can purchase Croatian souvenirs, delicacies, as well as perfumes and other products from world brands.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Special stations and sockets in rest zones are provided for charging gadgets. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the business lounge, which offers a secluded atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and newspapers and magazines.

Bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs are located in the terminal building, which is especially convenient for tourists arriving in Croatia. In case of need, there is a first aid point at the airport. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a calm environment.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, lifts, specially equipped toilets, and an assistance service (which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline) are provided. Although there are no hotels directly on the terminal grounds, several hotels and apartments are located in the immediate vicinity, reachable within a few minutes by taxi or transfer.

At Split Airport, you will easily find a place to have a snack or a full meal while waiting for your flight. Catering establishments are located both in the public zone and in the departure zone after security control, offering passengers diverse options.

Before Security Control (Landside): The main airport restaurant is located in the public area of the terminal, where you can have a leisurely lunch or dinner. The menu usually includes international and Mediterranean dishes. This is the best choice if you have plenty of time before departure or are seeing someone off or meeting them. There are also several cafes offering coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and beverages. Prices here are generally slightly lower than in the secure zone.

After Security Control (Airside): In the departure zone, the choice focuses on "bistro" and "cafe-bar" style establishments. Here you can quickly order coffee, fresh juice, a sandwich, salad, or dessert. This is an ideal option for those who want a snack immediately before boarding the plane. At these venues, you can order refreshing local beverages to enjoy your last minutes on the Adriatic coast.

Regarding cuisine, do not miss the opportunity to try something with local flair, for example, a sandwich with Dalmatian cured meat. Vegetarian options, such as salads or sandwiches with vegetables and cheese, are available in most cafes. For more specific dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free), it may be more challenging, so it is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes on the spot. Most establishments operate from early morning until the departure of the last flight, adjusting to the flight schedule.

To ensure your journey through Split Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. This is especially relevant in the summer months when the airport handles a large number of charter and seasonal flights.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. In summer, during the peak season, it is better to allow extra time due to possible queues. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option.

Passing Control: The security checkpoint at Split Airport can be busy. Prepare in advance: pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag, and remove laptops and other large electronics from your bags. This will speed up the process for you and other passengers.

Seat Selection: If you are flying to Croatia or departing during the day, choose a window seat. During takeoff and landing, stunning views of the Adriatic coast and islands open up. An aisle seat is suitable for those who value the ability to stand up freely during the flight.

Hand Luggage: Hand luggage standards here do not differ from general European regulations. Ensure that the weight and dimensions of your bag comply with the carrier's requirements. Besides liquids, it is forbidden to carry any sharp objects and flammable substances. Local souvenirs, such as olive oil or local produce, are best checked in with your luggage, having packed them well beforehand.

Transfer Passengers: Split Airport is primarily a final destination rather than a major transfer hub. If you do have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Follow the "Transit" signs to move to the required zone.

Customs Control: Passport control is provided for tourists arriving from non-Schengen countries. Customs inspection is usually selective. If you are not carrying goods subject to declaration, feel free to go through the "Green Channel".

Saving Time and Money: The most budget-friendly way to get to the city is to use the shuttle that departs after the arrival of most flights. Tickets can be bought online or from the driver. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher than in the city, so if you have time, it is better to have a snack before arriving at the airport. Bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled after passing security.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay, monitor information on the departure boards and announcements. Contact your airline representative for information about your rights. During long delays, airlines are obliged to provide passengers with beverages and meals.