tourist attractions in split croatia

12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Split

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Set on Croatia's gorgeous Dalmatian Coast, Split is the country's second-largest city and a vibrant place that perfectly blends modern and ancient. It is also one of the Croatian cities used as a Game of Thrones backdrop, and fans of the hit show can join an organized tour to learn more about their favorite scenes.

The town has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, starting with the Romans, followed by the Byzantines, Croats, Venetians, and finally the Austrians, who only left in 1918. As a result of these diverse influences, you'll find plenty of historical things to do in the city's wonderfully preserved Old Town.

While Dubrovnik may get most of the tourist attention in Croatia , Split is equally beautiful and historically significant. But unlike Dubrovnik, which feels like a giant outdoor museum, Split is a thriving cosmopolitan city, as well as a stop on the tourist trail. That means that you will be able to really feel like a local if you venture away from the waterfront.

That said, the waterfront and Old Town are visual stunners. And many travelers stop in Split before heading out on the ferries that shuttle beach lovers to glamorous nearby islands. Split is also famous as the home of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palace of Diocletian, one of the most impressive remaining Roman monuments anywhere in the world.

Just east of its pretty waterfront promenade is Split's main tourist center. Here, visitors will find some of the top restaurants, entertainment venues, and hotels in Croatia. There are also a number of wonderful day trips available from Split that take you to other nearby parts of this lovely country. These include visiting the ancient city of Salona and taking in the beautiful beaches of Zlatni Rat, Brela, the Pakleni Islands, Solta, and Milna.

I visited Split three different times on this particular trip because it has so much to see and, if you can stomach the traffic on foot and by car, you really can never get tired of the city.

Find the best places to visit in and around the city with this list of the top attractions and things to do in Split, Croatia.

1. Explore the Roman-Era Diocletian's Palace

2. climb up to marjan forest park and the marjan stairway, 3. stroll riva harbor, 4. see the cathedral of st. domnius, 5. learn about croatia's greatest artists at the ivan mestrovic gallery, 6. enjoy a day trip to zlatni rat and nearby beaches, 7. storm klis fortress, 8. get cultured at the croatian national theatre, 9. visit the people's square, 10. the church of st. dominic, 11. the baptistery of st. john and the papalic palace, 12. enjoy a day trip to the city of salona, where to stay in split for sightseeing, tips and tours: visiting plitvice lakes national park, split, croatia - climate chart.

The spectacular Diocletian's Palace (Dioklecijanova palača) is a well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site built in Roman military camp style, and a visit here is one of the top things to do in Split. Its basement also served as a set location for filming the Game of Thrones , resulting in its being one of the attractions for fans of the TV show.

Although Emperor Diocletian only lived here for eight years until his death in AD 313, the palace continued to play an important role as an administrative center and the governor's residence. Three centuries later, in AD 615, the palace was used as a refuge for the residents of Salona when their city was sacked by the Germanic Avars.

Originally some 215 meters long, 180 meters wide, and enclosed with thick walls up to 28 meters high, the palace was also protected by towers at each corner and boasted four entrances, including the Golden Gate, Silver Gate, and Iron Gate. Leading in from the gates on each side, two roads are laid out according to Roman tradition.

Several notable attractions within this site include the Temple of Jupiter , the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and medieval Brace Radica Square with its 15th-century Marina Tower . Also of note here are the 17th-century Milesi Palace , and a statue of Marko Marulic , who is considered the founder of Croatian literature.

It's impossible to miss this attraction. As you pass through the gates along the city's southern wall, the Palace is the first attraction you'll come across. This also means it can be the most crowded. I visited in mid-May and then in early June and it was a noticeable difference in crowd volume. For fewer tourists, May is the month to go. By early June, it was difficult to get anywhere near the Palace.

It is also possible to visit Diocletian's Palace and other attractions on a walking tour of Split . You can sample traditional regional dishes and the English-speaking tour guide offers insights and anecdotes relating to the city's top landmarks.

Address: Dioklecijanova ul. 1, 21000, Split, Croatia

The citizens of Split are justifiably proud of Marjan Forest Park, and with good reason. Dating back to the fourth century, this beautiful park occupies a peninsula overlooking the city and is a wonderful retreat for foot-weary visitors.

Apart from its many rest areas and benches, the park is notable for its towering pine trees, which shelter peaceful walking trails. Take a picnic, or stop at sunset for incredible, breathtaking vistas.

Marjan Park happens to have some of my favorite beaches in Split , as well. The top beaches I recommend here are Kasjuni, Kastalet, and Jezinac. These white pebble beaches are surrounded by nature and have stunningly blue water, with views out to the nearby islands.

Also of interest is the famous Marjan Stairway. While at 314 steps and a distance of 174 meters, it may be a long climb, it's certainly worth it, as it provides access to the vantage point of Telegrin, where the views out to sea are spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way to places such as the Kastela Gulf, Salona and Klis, Trogir and Ciovo, as well as the islands of Solta, Brac, Hvar, and Vis.

It's also a popular spot for rock climbing on the cliffs below the lookout. Marjan Forest Park can be easily accessed from the city center by walking through the old quarter of Varos, a 15-minute walk, and should most definitely be included on your Split travel itinerary.

Welcome to the star of the show. Nothing is quite as glamorous as Split's spectacular Riva Harbor. This long promenade is the thoroughfare between the glamorous marina and the western walls of the Old Town.

Flanked on either end with towering palm trees and speckled with umbrella-covered outdoor restaurants, this is the center of tourism in Split's Old Town . Come the summer season, the area is practically crawling with people, as this is the spot from which the ferries leave for the islands. It's also where the splendid yachts and mega cruise ships dock.

But it's impossible to come to Split and skip this vital part of the city. If nothing else, it makes for entertaining people watching.

The Cathedral of St. Domnius (Katedrala Sv. Duje) can also be found within the ancient area of Diocletian's Palace . Originally Diocletian's mausoleum, this stunning structure was designed by Filotas and consecrated in the 7th century.

The cathedral has changed little since then, apart from the addition of a 60-meter-tall bell tower built in stages from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The tower can in fact be climbed and is well worth tackling for its great views of the palace.

Laid out on an octagonal pattern and with a double line of columns – some of them Roman originals – this splendid Corinthian-designed cathedral also contains many notable interior features. Perhaps the most important are the Altar of St. Domnius and the 13th-century hexagonal Romanesque stone pulpit.

Address: Ul. Kraj Svetog Duje 3, 21000, Split, Croatia

While numerous fine examples of Ivan Mestrovic's work can be seen across the city, the best place to find out more about Croatia's most revered artist is at the gallery named after him: the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery . A good friend of Rodin, Mestrovic was widely considered one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, and he oversaw the design of the gallery himself.

Originally his residence during the 1930s, the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery was started in 1952 after a substantial donation of art from the artist himself. Highlights include a collection of 86 statues in marble, stone, bronze, wood, and gypsum, along with numerous drawings. Also worth seeing are the eight large bronze statues in the gallery's pleasant gardens.

Address: Setaliste Ivana Mestrovica 46, 21000, Split, Croatia

Located just a few minutes drive from the ancient city of Salona and an easy day trip from Split, the popular beach areas of Zlatni Rat, Brela, Solta, Milna, and the Pakleni Islands are all well worth visiting.

Of these beautiful locations, the best known is Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) on the south coast of Brac. This wonderful beach area is famous for its unique shape and is formed largely from pebbles deposited here by wind and currents. It's a fascinating "spit" of land that juts out into the sea some 500 meters, with its shape-changing a little each year.

Overlooked by shady pine trees and the tall Vidova Gora mountain, the beach's warm waters ensure it is almost always busy come summer with locals and tourists alike. The draw? They're all here to enjoy great swimming and sunbathing, as well as water sports such as paddle boating, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Almost as popular (and equally beautiful) is Brela . Consistently voted one of Europe's best beaches, Brela makes for a wonderful place to visit to kick back and relax. Also popular are the Pakleni Islands , a spectacular 10-kilometer-long chain of islands boasting numerous quiet coves and lovely beaches.

Of course, Split has plenty of beautiful beaches that are just a short distance from Old Town. I already mentioned my favorites in Marjan Park, but others closer to the city that I enjoyed were Znjan City Beach and Ovcice.

Located about 12 kilometers northeast of the town center, the Klis Fortress is well worth a visit and can even be reached by city bus 22, which departs from Split's local bus station. If you watch Game of Thrones , you may recognize the castle as the City of Meereen.

The impressive fortress sits along a limestone bluff, which is 385 meters at its tallest point, and it's used to control the valley leading into town. The fort is long and narrow thanks to its lengthy existence, which led to constant extensions as the centuries progressed.

A small museum on-site features a display of the castle's bloody past, as well as traditional costumes and swords. There is also a room dedicated to filming Game of Thrones, and visitors can climb over the fortifications inside.

You can visit Klis Fortress and other Game of Thrones attractions, like the basement of Diocletian's Palace , which served as Daenerys' Throne Room, on an organized Game of Thrones tour in Split .

Opened in 1893 and one of the oldest such buildings in the country, the Croatian National Theatre in Split (HNK Split) continues to play an important role in the city's vibrant arts and cultural community.

All told, the theater holds a diverse program of more than 300 performances annually, including everything from ballet to theatrical events, as well as classical music performed by a local symphony orchestra.

The National Theatre also hosts a number of important festivals, including the popular Split Summer Festival ( Splitsko ljeto ), one of the country's oldest performing arts events, and the Days of Marulic ( Marulicevi dani ), a weeklong celebration of important Croatian literature.

Address: Trg Gaje Bulata 1, 21000, Split, Croatia

Dating from the 15th century, the People's Square (Narodni Trg Pjaca) in Split features many interesting Renaissance, Venetian, and Gothic buildings constructed through the ages.

Of particular note is the Venetian-Gothic Cambi Palace , along with the Renaissance-style Town Hall building, home to the Ethnographic Museum of Split , a fascinating museum that is well worth a visit.

The People's Square lies in the area once occupied by the Palace of Diocletian and is west of the Peristyle. Also of interest is the nearby statue of Grgur Ninski (Gregory of Nin), created by famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.

Rebuilt in the 17th century and enlarged in the 1930s, Split's Church of St. Dominic (Srebrna Vrata I Sv. Dominik) stands on the site of the former Oratory of St. Catherine. Originally constructed in the middle ages, this splendid church features artwork by Palma il Giovane and his followers, including the famous Miracle in Surian and Apparition in the Temple .

Nearby is one of the best marketplaces in Split, with great views of Diocletian's Palace. Every time I come to Split (which is now about four times), I find myself wandering this market. It has the most delicious-looking produce and locally made cheeses and meats. But it also has everything from old watches and knick-knacks to clothing and souvenirs. I even bought a dress there my first time to Split in 2019 and it continues to be a wardrobe staple.

Just between the church and the walls of Old Town is a string of fun outdoor cafes and restaurants that light up in the evening. It's nice to grab some takeaway and sit in the park. Sometimes they even have live music.

Address: Hrvojeva 4, 21000, Split, Croatia

The Baptistery of St. John (Sv. Ivan Krstitelj) is centrally located inside Diocletian's Palace . Consecrated in the sixth century, it was originally a Roman religious building, the Temple of Jupiter . Several features of note are the baptismal font with a panel representing King Zvonimir and other dignitaries, as well as carvings by Ivan Mestrovic, which were added to the statue of St. John on the end wall.

Also of interest are the tombs of two bishops from the 8th and 11th centuries. A number of interesting relics from both the Baptistery of St. John and Diocletian's Palace can also be enjoyed at the neighboring Museum of Split (Muzej Grada Splita), in the former Gothic Papalic Palace.

Considered to be the finest of the 15th- and 16th-century buildings constructed in the open areas of Diocletian's Palace, the museum is noted for its collection of books illustrating the history of the city, as well as an armory featuring weaponry from the 15th to 18th centuries.

About eight kilometers north of Split is the old town of Salona (Solin), a popular destination for history buffs. Occupied by Illyrians, Greeks, and finally the Romans, this ancient town holds many historical attractions within its ancient city walls, including its amphitheater, aqueduct, Bishop's complex, and forum.

Built by the Romans in the second century, the impressive Salona Amphitheater is designed to hold up to 20,000 people at a time and is notable for its underground channels, believed to have been used for staging mock naval battles. The Salona Aqueduct , built in the first century, is an impressive sight that is easily accessible and once carried water from the river Jadro to Split, ending at Diocletian's Palace .

The most historic and atmospheric area to stay for sightseeing is the Old Town, where you'll also find many hotels, as well as tourist attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Here are some of our favorites:

Luxury Hotels :

• In Old Town, check out the wonderful Heritage Hotel Antique Split in the heart of Diocletian's Palace. This family-run luxe property offers the perfect mix of modern and ancient decor, with original stone walls and contemporary furniture.
• Another excellent luxury selection is the Palace Judita Heritage Hotel , which is also found right in the center of the Old Town and has elegant rooms with posh baths.
• If you want a romantic boutique hotel, try the Hotel Vestibul Plaza with just 11 rooms.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Divota Apartment Hotel is an excellent upper mid-range choice, popular with families for its contemporary rooms and apartments, Old Town location, and excellent spa treatments.
• Hotel Marul is another top mid-range property, just a short stroll to the old town. It features modern decor and a wonderful free breakfast.

Budget Hotels :

• Nirvana Rooms & Apartments is at the upper end of the budget spectrum but features a great locale, delightful breakfast, and bright rooms. There is also a kitchen guests can use to cut down on meal costs.
• Villa Marjela features clean and comfortable rooms within walking distance of the Old Town. A breakfast buffet is also served.
• Day Trip Tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park : Split makes a great base from which to explore some of Croatia's top tourist attractions on day trips. The full-day tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park visits this UNESCO-listed wilderness area, filled with breathtaking scenery and wonderful hiking trails. If you have limited time, it is best to explore with an organized day trip like this one, which takes you to the park under the care of an expert guide and allows for touring of the lakes by boat, and sightseeing by electric train or bus.

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Croatia's Dalmatian Coast: Charming towns and villages dot the picturesque Dalmatian Coast, the most famous of which is the port city of Dubrovnik. For ideas on what to see here, review our article on the Top Tourist Attractions in Dubrovnik and check out our pages on cities like Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, and Zadar, where you can visit its beautiful cathedral, old town, and beaches. For an overview of all the exciting things to see and do in this fascinating country, read our page on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Croatia .

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16 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Split, Croatia

Split is a very scenic city lying on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. With just under 200,000 residents, this ancient city is the largest on the Dalmatian Coast and Croatia’s second largest city. Its rulers have included the Greeks, Romans and Turks, with each culture leaving its stamp on the city.

Split is especially famous for its beaches and Roman ruins, particularly Diocletian’s Palace, which lies in the heart of Split’s Old Town. Discovering the many treasure inside the palace is one of he most popular things to do in Split. With an abundance of history, Game of Thrones landmarks and many other attractions in Split, it won’t take long for visitors to figure out why this Croatian city is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Split

16. People’s Square

Formerly named St Lawrence’s Square, People’s Square is locally known as Pjaca. It represents the civic power of Split, earning its common name. The piazza is located on the western walls of the Diocletian Palace, and it can be accessed through the Iron Gate. The Gothic-style historic Town Hall is now an Ethnographic museum which hosts many exhibitions in the summer months.

The square is overlooked by a Romanesque clock. Remarkably, it uses 24 digits instead of 12. Life never pauses here. Featuring dainty cafeterias, it became the social hub for intellectuals and artists during the first half of the 20th century. Pjaca remains the buzzing central spot, as it is filled with places to rest, meet, and eat.

15. Archaeological Museum Split

Split’s Archaeological Museum is the oldest museum institution in Croatia. Founded in 1820, it includes 150,000 archaeological artifacts from the prehistoric, Roman, Greek, early Christian and Medieval ages. The museum is situated north of the town center, but they also have branches in Solin and on the island of Vis. The museum’s original function was to care for the monuments of the ancient palace of Salona and Diocletian, providing a rigorous framework for their preservation.

The stone-walled lapidarium strikingly contrasts with the tranquil, leafy courtyard. A two-story building with a museum library, the grand exhibition hall is reserved for smaller artifacts which are displayed in glass cases. The museum is closed on Sundays.

14. Game of Thrones Museum Split

Many Croatian sites became Westeros when filming Game of Thrones, including the Old Town of Split. To celebrate the HBO Series, a commercial museum has opened at the top of Bosanka Street, in the heart of the Roman-walled city. It showcases costumes, authentic props, weapons and real-size wax figures. It also exhibits exclusive photographs taken of the cast and crew during filming. Visitors can also explore the depths of Diocletian Cellars which are close by. They featured as Khaleesi’s dragon dungeon in the series.

It embraces a sensual experience: aromas of Cedar, Jasmine, Lavender and Ether oils permeate the rooms. The dark interior walls add to the mysterious, macabre atmosphere. It is highly recommended to visit during the siesta closure hours.

13. Green Market

The Pzar (the Central Green Market) is where people come to shop and experience the colors, aromas and flavors of Split. You can find every kind of fresh produce that you would like to purchase: herbs, cheeses, meats, honey and Croatian delicacies, all of which are staples of the Mediterranean diet. Artisanal stalls of souvenirs and trinkets can also be found here.

The market is open every day from 6.30 am but local fruit and vegetable stalls clear out by lunchtime. Saturday is the busiest day to shop; you will find large crowds haggling. The Croatian phrases ‘koliko košta’ (how much does it cost?) and ‘Hvala’ (thank you) may serve you when grocery shopping. Feel like one of the locals and venture into the colorful outdoor market.

12. Putalj Winery

The Putalj Winery is located in Kaštel Sućurac, north of Split. With a backdrop of stunning, picturesque mountain views, you can enjoy Mediterranean delicacies here. It is one of the leading boutique wineries in Split which creates individual wine tasting programs that are catered to your unique desires and requirements. Tours run once a day around 6 pm. You will be shown around all the production spots, as well as taste vintage wines directly from the fermentation tanks.

The Putalj Zinfandel, a bottle of a medium-bodied wine with aromas of sour cherry, vanilla and spice, will be sampled. There will be a chance to sample olive oil produced by the winery which is paired with appetizing, rustic antipasti. Coach transfers from Split are included in the ticket price.

11. Froggyland

Froggyland is an unusual museum of frog people. Ferenc Mere was an incredibly skilled taxidermist, spending 10 years catching and stuffing frogs to replicate human scenes. This Croatian diorama is a strange and unique space, a place for self-reflection in the literal sense: you can observe frogs performing your daily tasks and social endeavors.

For instance, the anthropomorphic amphibians freakishly toast at a dinner party, smoking cigarettes around a table. You are even transported back to your school days as you witness frogs diligently taking notes in front of a whiteboard. Photography is not permitted in the museum. An eccentric but remarkable place, these exhibits are not one to miss if you are a fan of the strange and niche.

10. Klis Fortress

For a chance to step back in time and to admire GOT’s Meereen, Klis Fortress is strongly recommended. Situated above the homonymous village, it is an impenetrable wall of a mountain with three long rectangular defensive stone walls. The fortress dominates the skyline – the structure is irregular as it was designed to fit within the natural topography.

It was historically a royal castle that was the seat of many Croatian kings, but it developed into a successful and colossal defense mechanism during the Ottoman wars in Europe, withstanding 2000 years of history of conquest. From this skyline, you can view Split’s cityscape, its harbor and the surrounding countryside. Included in the ticket price are visits to two other important locations, the Interpretation Center and ethno-agro park in Split.

9. Trip to Trogir

West of Split is the charming medieval town of Trogir. Dating back to the 3rd Century BC, the town is linked by bridges to both the mainland and the lush Čiovo Island. Home to Renaissance facades, medieval streets, elegant churches and palaces, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. St Lawrence’s Cathedral is a must-visit monument, a three-nave Venetian religious site.

The cathedral features three different architectural styles, taking four centuries to build. In the summer, everyone gravitates toward Medena Beach, a seaside promenade lined with bars, cafes and yachts. To arrive there, there is a frequent city bus from Split’s main bus terminal. With picturesque piazzas overflowing with beautiful flowers and plants, Trogir is a town that must not be missed.

8. Fruit Square

The square of Trg Braće Radić was once home to a bustling fruit market and so received its unofficial name. These days fruit is no longer sold here, but there are several shops and attractions, including the Venetian Castello and tower, both of which were constructed in 1435 to protect the city from local revolts and Turkish raids.

The northern side of the square is dominated by the Milesi Palace, one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in Dalmatia. A statue of Marko Marulić, a 15th-century poet, stands in front of the palace. The statue was created by Ivan Meštrović.

7. Marjan Hill

Marjan Hill sits in a forest park at the west end of the Split Peninsula. Approximately the size of New York City’s Central Park, Marjan Hill is covered in Mediterranean pine. The park offers wide paved paths just made for strolling or biking.

Those who make the climb to the top of Marjan Hill will be rewarded with panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea. On the way to the top, visitors will find a small 13th century church dedicated to St. Nicholas, the fisherman’s saint. Marjan Hill has been a favorite escape from city life for Split residents since the third century.

6. Ivan Mestrovic Gallery

Artist and sculptor, Ivan Meštrović bought a plot of land on Marjan Hill in the 1920s transforming it himself into a grand villa: a home, working and exhibition space. In 1952, he gave the building and 132 pieces of his art to the state, founding the art gallery. This particular gallery has had a unique history as a home and a place of wreckage during the war of Croatian independence. A treasure trove of impressive and intimate depictions of close family members, it reopened in 1998 with a new permanent collection.

The stellar art museum is cocooned by a Mediterranean garden, which houses the bronze sculptures, and boasts incredible views of the sea and central Dalmatian islands.

5. Bacvice Beach

A picturesque sandy bay, Bačvice Beach is near the port and only a 15-minute walk east of Diocletian’s Palace. Covering a wide stretch of sea, its waters are transparent and turquoise in color. It attracts large crowds in the summer months, but that should not deter you from enjoying this beautiful part of the Adriatic sea.

Challenge friends or family to a game of picigin (the aim is to keep a small ball from dropping in the water) or enjoy a cold beer al fresco at a beach bar, basking in the summer sun. Having recently been awarded Blue Flag status for its cleanliness and abundant facilities, this beach is a symbol of the city’s wonderful tourism.

4. Grgur Ninski Statue

Grgur Ninski, or Gregory of Nin, was a 10th century medieval bishop who defied the pope in several areas. As an advocate for the Croatian language and culture, he switched from holding masses in Latin, a language people did not understand, to Croatian. Though it strengthened Christianity in Croatia, the move resulted in Grgur Ninski losing his bishopric.

His statue can be found north of Diocletian’s Palace in Old Split. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Split, people come here to rub the statue’s toe; doing this is said to bring good luck to the person rubbing it.

A light breeze, sunshine on the skin, and the clear, deep blues of the sea: this is the essence of the Riva Waterfront. Glazed white tiles and palm trees now run the length of the Old Town. Cruise ships dock at Split Riva Pier, a vital part of Split’s port city existence which is tied to the Adriatic Sea.

There are plenty of benches to sit at and ponder and to also admire the view. Restaurants and cafes are dotted all along the Riva. A pedestrian promenade, it is an ideal place for having a morning coffee, or an evening out for drinks after watching the sunset. At night, the energy transforms as seafood dishes are served in abundance with views of the water.

2. Saint Dujam

Saint Dujam, known formally as the Cathedral of Saint Dominus, has at least one claim to fame. Since it was consecrated in the 7th century, it is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that has been in continuous use in its original structure without undergoing a major restoration. The cathedral has three parts: the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian built in 305 AD; a Romanesque bell tower that was added in 1100, and a chorus that was built in the 17th century.

The bell tower provides great panoramic views of Split, nearby islands and Marjan hill. The wooden doors, created in the 13th century, show scenes from the life of Christ.

1. Diocletian’s Palace

The massive Diocletian Palace was built by Diocletian, the only Roman emperor to abdicate the throne voluntarily. He had the palace built on the Bay of Aspalathos near his birthplace, and after his abdication on May 1, 305 A.D., he lived in it for the rest of his years. His palace went on to become the core of the modern day city of Split. As the world’s most complete remains of a Roman palace, it holds an outstanding place in Mediterranean heritage.

Emperor Diocletian wanted only the best for his retirement home. He used marble from Greece and Italy, as well as sphinxes and columns from Egypt. Water came to the palace from the Jadro River through a Roman aqueduct. Visitors can view the remains of this aqueduct, which was restored in the 19th century. The palace served as an imperial home, a fortified town and a military fortress to protect those inside. It had reinforced gates on the eastern, western and northern sides. The southern side, which faced the sea, had a smaller gate that led from the residential quarters to the sea.

In the sixth century, 300 years after it was built, the palace fell into disuse. However, around the year 614 A.D., refugees from nearby Salona (Solin) took up residence in the palace to escape the invading barbarians, and the locals have been living there ever since. It is a living treasure, with nearly 3000 people making their homes there, buying food at the market, taking their children for walks and hanging their laundry out to dry on ancient balconies.

Visitors do not need a ticket to enter the palace. They can stroll right in. The Bronze Gate gives access to the basement of Diocletian’s old Central Hall, now filled with craft and souvenir shops. Moving about in the palace is easy, and travelers can enjoy the many museums, the National Theater and the old churches found there. They might even meet a local artist or have an espresso at one of the many shops within the palace.

Best Time to Visit Split

As average temperatures soar to 25 to 28°C (77 to 82°F), the water is warmest and people have holidays, June to September is by far the most popular time to visit Split. This though is when its promenade, beaches and historic sights are at their busiest. Hotel prices are also high.

People aren’t put off, however, as this is the best time to swim in the sea or enjoy sailing and watersports. The Split Summer Festival and Ultra Europe Festival also take place then and a lively atmosphere reigns over everything.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn – so April, May and October – are arguably even better. Temperatures remain around 16 to 21°C (61 to 70°F) with swimming still possible in those last two months. Boat trips out to Hvar or visits to Krka National Park are much calmer, pleasant affairs during this period.

Winter is quite cool and rainy with most people staying away until Easter when the numbers start to pick up again. Although you can find some fantastic deals, the climate isn’t great for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring its incredible coast and islands.

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Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Things to Do in Split (Croatia)

15 Best Things to Do in Split (Croatia)

Split, on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, feels like a city that time has forgotten. The ancient centre is like nothing you’ll have seen before, with a whole district taken up by a sprawling Roman palace, going strong after 1700 years. Over the centuries this architecture has been kept intact and then incorporated into newer buildings, like St. Duje’s Cathedral, the heart of which is a 4th-century mausoleum.

You may recognise some of the locations around Split from TV shows and it can be easy to forget that local attractions like Klis Fortress and the gorgeous town of Trogir are real places, not Hollywood sets! Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Split :

1. Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace dominates the city’s historic core. There’s nothing else like it in Europe: It’s a wonderfully-preserved 4th-century complex blending Diocletian’s stately retirement villa with the remnants of a large military camp. Such is the scale that it’s more of a citadel than a palace, and surprises await around every corner. Needless to say that the palace is UNESCO-listed, and you’ll even be able to tread the original Roman streets that cut through the complex: decumanus and cardo still have their original paving stones. It won’t come as a surprise that scenes from Game of Thrones have been filmed at this stunning location.

Included in : Diocletian’s Palace Walking Tour

2. Historic Split

You’ll need at least a few hours to get a real taste of the old city and there’s no better way to do this than on foot. Head for Pjaca square where Split’s old town hall overlooks a sophisticated plaza of shiny marble tiles and cafes with outdoor seating. Fruit Square is also essential, taking its name from the market that was held here for centuries. Here there’s lots of beautiful renaissance architecture, remnants from Split’s Venetian era. To see how Split’s inhabitants go about their day try Marmont Street, which extends down to the water and is flanked at the upper end by shops, cafes and restaurants.

Recommended tour : Dubrovnik’s City Walls and Wars Historic Walking Tour

3. St. Duje’s Cathedral

One of the enchanting things about the architecture in old Split is the way ancient buildings have been repurposed. The finest example is Split’s cathedral, which was once Diocletian’s mausoleum. The central portion of this structure dates to 350, making St Duje’s the oldest cathedral building in the world. It’s a real thrill to see how Roman elements like the original ring of 24 supporting columns mingle with the hallmarks of a catholic place of worship. Also take a moment to check out the cathedral’s romanesque wooden doors, which have survived unaltered since 1200.

4. Peristil Square

Peristil Square is the original Roman court, where you can soak up the architectural majesty of old Split. Afternoon cups of coffee don’t get more dramatic than this, that’s for sure! Diocletian made his public appearances at just this plaza and his devoted subjects would prostrate themselves in front of the former emperor. Still standing are the two 3,500-year-old Egyptian sphinxes brought to the city by Diocletian. The epic stone monuments around the square have endowed Peristil with fine acoustics so you could definitely catch an opera or theatre performance in the summer.

Just west of the city is this steep, 170-metre-high hill forested with cypress and Mediterranean pine trees. It’s just the ticket if you’re in the mood for a bit of fresh air and exercise, or want to track down some of Split’s less frequented landmarks. Especially interesting is the Jewish cemetery on the eastern side of the hill. No burials have been made since 1945, but many of the tombstones are still legible and some go back to the 1700s. There are also two churches on the hill, St. Nicholas from the 1200s and St. Jerome from the 1400s with a renaissance altarpiece carved by the Venetian Andrea Alessi.

6. Campanile

Next to the cathedral is Split’s iconic bell tower, a lovely sight, six storeys-high that tapers as you scale the upper levels. On your way up you’ll be exposed to the elements, and you can peer through the tower’s paired arched windows, which are a classic feature of Romanesque design and have hardly been altered since the 1000s. At the top your reward will be views of the Split cityscape and the Adriatic, well worth the slightly onerous climb and the small admission fee!

7. Statue of Grgur Ninski

Both the subject and creator of this hefty statue outside the Golden Gate are a big deal. Ivan Meštrović, the sculptor, was a master of his craft and after communism arrived he continued his career in America where his public works there are as cherished as ever. More on him later. Grgur Ninski on the other hand is a 10th-century bishop a Croatian icon, who by conducting religious services in the Croatian language defied the pope, helped spread Christianity in the region and establish Croatian national identity. People rub Ninski’s big toe for good luck, and years of contact have made this little nub of bronze gleam.

8. Klis Fortress

When you see it you’ll know why this stronghold on an upland pass has also appeared in Game of Thrones. Klis Fortress is balanced on a bluff above the terraced hills of the eponymous town, and is framed by yet more towering cliffs of pale grey rock. It’s a sight you won’t forget and blood has been spilled for this structure throughout its two and a half millennia. The ancient Illyrians were the first to build a fortress here and for centuries throughout the medieval era Klis was the seat of the Croatian Kings. During the Ottoman Wars whoever held this castle, 10 kilometres northeast of Split, held the upper hand in the region.

Recommended day trip : Historical Tour of Salona, Klis and Trogir from Split

9. Krka National Park

An hour up from Split, this national park follows the course of the Krka River. The sublime Stradinski Buk is what many people come to see. It’s a large natural pool, 400 by 100 metres, fed by travertine waterfalls on one end and then emptied by cascades on the other. There are 17 waterfalls in this spot alone and tallest gets up to almost 50 metres. You could lose hours feasting your eyes on this scene: The pool is enveloped by rich greenery and is also admired for the way the sunlight dances in the swirling water. Also be sure to make time for the cascades at Roški Slap and Visovac Island, where there’s a 15th-century monastery.

10. Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments

If you’re wondering where the stuff from all of the historical landmarks in and around Split has ended up, here’s your answer. Some 20,000 pieces have been collected by the Archaeological Monument Museum, only a quarter of which can be displayed. Most of these are from medieval times and generally include jewellery, weapons, armour and everyday household items. In terms of Croatian culture, the most valuable pieces are the various stone inscriptions, reliefs and carvings relating to the Croatian kings, nobility and clergy from the 800s to the 1100s.

11. Ivan Meštrović Gallery

If you’d like to delve into the background of one of Croatia’s most noted artists (and the sculptor of the city’s Grgur Ninski statue) this is a fascinating way to spend an afternoon. It’s the largest collection of works by Meštrović to be found anywhere, with almost 200 sculptures as well as sketches, furniture pieces and architectural plans. The museum is in a building from the 1930s designed as a home by the artist himself, and after falling into disrepair during the Yugoslav War it was reopened in 1998. As well as interior exhibits there’s an extensive outdoor sculpture garden to take in.

An easy bus ride from the centre of Split, Salona was once the Roman Empire’s foremost city in the Balkans. 60,000 people lived in Salona’s at the city’s peak and although it was eventually ransacked and abandoned in the 600s the archaeological park is an enlightening day out, preserving significant fragments of the structures that used to stand here. The most obvious of these is the amphitheatre, which once had a capacity for 18,000 spectators. You can trace the perimeter of the area, and see how the terraced seating harmonised with the slope of the hill one which its built.

Yet another UNESCO site, Trogir looks much the same now as it did in its medieval heyday. You don’t need to be a historian to fall in love with Trogir: It’s the best-preserved ensemble of romanesque and gothic architecture in Europe. The location is part of the charm, as the city is a small, fortified island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Trogir’s 15th-century walls protect a labyrinth of ravine-like streets on which you’ll pass buildings unchanged since the 1200s. There are a 10 historic churches in the old centre, including the exquisite 13th-century cathedral. There is a great Blue Lagoon and Trogir Tour  available which you can book right here .

14. Charter a boat

Croatia’s coast is a natural wonder, especially around Split, where islands serve as a barrier to keep the clean waters calm and almost transparent in the shallows. So the incredible array of offshore landforms combined with the countless remote coves where you can weigh anchor, make Split one of Europe’s best places to charter a yacht or motorboat, whether you prefer bareboat or skippered. It’s a busy market here with lots of charter agencies competing for business and keeping rentals affordable. At the marina are shops where you can stock your vessel with food and drink, and from there you’re free to embark on your adventure.

15. A day next to the Adriatic

Split’s superb culture makes it easy to forget that the city can be a fabulous seaside destination. You won’t need to venture far either: Right in the city, at the foot of Marjan are a sequence of fine natural beaches edged by the hill’s aromatic pine woodland. Travel a little way east along the coast from Split and you’ll come to Stobrec, a lovely horseshoe bay with shallow waters where smaller children can paddle in safety. The headline sandy beach in the area is Bacvice a southeastern suburb of Split, where sun shades are for hire and you’ll have all the waterfront amenities you could need.

15 Best Things to Do in Split (Croatia):

• Diocletian's Palace
• Historic Split
• St. Duje's Cathedral
• Peristil Square
• Statue of Grgur Ninski
• Klis Fortress
• Krka National Park
• Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments
• Ivan Meštrović Gallery
• Charter a boat
• A day next to the Adriatic

Split Croatia Travel Guide

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Home » Split » 18 Amazing Split Attractions You Must See

18 Amazing Split Attractions You Must See

To find the best Split city attractions such as the Diocletian’s palace with its cathedral and bell tower of St. Domnius, Peristyle square, Procurativa, Split’s waterfront and many others, take a look below at Split travel guide’s list of everything to see in my home town.

Read more about UNESCO Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian.

No matter, if you’re here for only couple of hours before embarking your ferry or planning to stay a day or two and want to consider just the top, must-to-see Split’s highlights, go straight to my list of the top Split tourist attractions.

To make the most of your time here, check out my recommended places of interest. I have added also Marjan hill as inseparable part of Split attractions.

1. N° 1 Split attractions – Diocletian Palace and Peristyle

Overlooking the Split harbor, the 1700 years old palace is one of the most important architectural heritage of the Roman Empire, where you will spend the most of your time in Split.

2. Cathedral of St.Duje (Saint Domnius)

The symbol of Split town. Sv. Dujam was the first bishop of Salona, and in his honor was erected magnificent cathedral with a bell tower 57 meters high, built in the 13th century. It’s one of Split attractions commonly present on local postcards.

If you are in good shape, I recommend that you climb to the top of the bell tower which offers a unique view of the entire city and the central Dalmatian islands.

3. Peristyle Square

In front of the cathedral is the Peristyle square, the most popular among Split attractions, surrounded by columns that is the center of cultural life in Split, where the extraordinary acoustics maintained traditional cultural and musical events of Split Summer Festival.

4. Jupiter’s temple

From Peristyle Square take the narrowest street called ( Let me pass, please ), in Croatian (Pusti me da prodjem) and you’ll find yourself below Jupiter’s temple.

It was one of the three temples at the Peristyle, where the other two was dedicated to Venus and Cybele. It was built on a raised podium in front of him today is an old Egyptian sphinx.

5. Statue of Grgur Ninski

Do not miss to visit the monument to Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski in Croatian), created by the most famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic. The statue is an imposing 6 feet tall. It is believed that touching his thumb brings happiness and the realization of desires.

So whether you’re superstitious or not, don’t miss to touch it and make a wish!

In June 2014 this Mestrovic statue was closed due to renovations. Finally, as it was promised, on March 17th 2015, Split’s much-loved statue, a new restored Bishop Gregory of Nin, is back in its full splendor.

It’s a good news for all tourists ready to rub the bishop’s luck toe. So anyone who is in search for some good luck, Grgur is back again. Happy rubbing!

6. Prokurativa – Republic Square

Republic Square is one of the most beautiful squares in Split. This beautiful Neo Renaissance square decorated by three sides columns while the fourth side is open to the sea. In the summer months are held various cultural and musical events.

This popular spot is one of the Split attractions, that comes alive in the summer with concerts and cultural events. This year Split Festival 2014 will take place from Jul 04 – Jul 07.

Art market A manifestation under the title Art Market is being held on Split Prokurative (Republic square) on Saturday. The manifestation begins at 9am and lasts till 3pm and it is going to be held throughout the year, each Saturday at the same time and at the same place. The goal? To include all cultural associations and creative individuals working in the City of Split to enhance the cultural-touristic presentation of the City and the region of Dalmatia with their works. Check all Split’s events on this page !

7. Riva – Split waterfront

Riva, a Split waterfront is a iconic place and a favorite meeting point. The best place to see the best of Split and to be seen. Everything is going on here from summer or New Eve celebrations, sport events, protests, strikes.

Riva is completely renovated a few years ago. Cafes on the waterfront is a popular gathering place for young people from Split before a night out on Bacvice or other parts of the city.  Find more about Split nightlife and party beaches!

8. Piazza – People’s Square

This centrally located square is one of the most popular piazzas in the city and one of the main Split attractions.

Surrounded by stunning buildings: the Renaissance clock erected on the ruins of a Roman tower, the first town hall and Renaissance palace of aristocratic family Karepic with the exceptional coat of arm on its facade. This is a place of the legendary City Café (Gradska kafana).

9. Poljud Stadium

The city stadium at Poljud, popular among the citizens as “The Beauty of Poljud”, built in the form of shell, completely fits into the surrounding. The stadium is the soccer field of the oldest Croatian soccer team “Hajduk”.

10. Bacvice beach and Picigin Game

Split’s main beach is Bacvice, mostly sandy beach famous for Picigin game , a game played with a small ball in shallow water. It is urban, central city beach, situated few minutes walk south of the railway station.

It’s the most popular party beach with few restaurants, café bars and nightclubs all lined up and easy to walk to.

11. Split Croatia National Theater

If you are looking for opera, drama, concerts or ballet in Split? Then this theater is the right place, once the biggest theater in southern Europe, the Croatian National Theater in Split.

12. Varos – Old Split’s suburb

Varos or Veli (big) Varos is one of the oldest parts of Split. Once it was the old part of the city inhabited only by farmers and fishermen.  It is located west of the city , at the foot of the celebrated Marjan hill.

It’s known for its farmers’ stone houses, with small and tight streets, a witness of poor and hard life. Don’t miss to take a stroll among these streets. You can even reach the top of Marjan hill from there, but you should ask the locals or you might get lost.

Varos is a place of some most famous restaurants like the one I like the most, Hvaranin konoba (tavern).

13. Cindro Palace

Cindro Palace (17th century), the most beautiful Baroque palace in Split, lies on the right of Kresimirova street few steps from the Iron Gate and in vicinity of Narodni Trg (Piaca) square.

The palace Cindro is one of the Split attractions, a typical example of baroque housing architecture in Split.

In palace basement there is spatial atrium, and facade is decomposed by a rows of balcony entrances and balconies with baroque stone fence.

The family Cindro belongs to oldest Split families and they have actively contributed in all wars against Turks.

The interesting fact is that Napoleon’s Marshall Marmoset has chosen exactly this palace as his residency during his stay in Split at the beginning of 19th century.

You can even sleep in this palace at Inchy Rooms hostel , a secure,clean and quality accommodation.

14. Split Attractions – Mestrovic Gallery

Ivan Mestrovic, the Croatian Michelangelo is the greatest Croatian sculptor, whose works are visible in every corner of the city. (Grgur Ninski, Marko Marulic) and many others. Find more about this sculptor, painter and writer.

His gallery is an art museum founded in 1952 dedicated to the work of this 20th century sculptor located in the south slopes of Marjan hill. It is one of the prominent Split attractions sights.

• Where: Setaliste Ivana Mestrovica 46, Tel: 385/21/340-800
• Opening Hours: Summer (1 May to 30 September): Tuesday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Winter (1 October – 30 April): Tuesday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Closed : Monday, public holiday

Admission fees:

• Adults: 30 HRK
• Children and students: 15 HRK
• Getting there: Buses N° 12, 7 and 8
• Professional guided tours organized if booked in advance. Call the number above!

Gallery is close to both Jezinac beach and Zvoncac Beach on the southern side of the Marjan Hill. Reading this Bobby’s and Kelly’s family blog during their 2013 visit to the gallery, I recommend this place for families with kids. Read about all Split beaches!

15. Split attractions – Vocni Trg (Fruit Square)

Walking from Pjaca Square to Riva promenade following narrow Split streets you’ll come across of the small square, officially called ‘Rodic Square’ but locally known as Fruit Square (Vocni Trg).

Today there are no signs of fruit stands but the name is still commonly used by local people.

On the west side of the square rises, the octagonal tower, built by the Venetians who feared the local revolts and the Turkish raids.

On the opposite side of the tower there is a spectacular palace Milesi with a fascinating Baroque facade the witnesses of the traditional Dalmatian architecture.

In front of the palace stands the statue of Marko Marulic, father of the Croatian literature from the 15th century, carved in bronze by the hand of Ivan Mestrovic, the greatest Croatian sculptor.

16. Split Attractions – Four Gates of Diocletian’s Palace

Visiting Split, your first target will be Diocletian’s palace, which can be entered through four gates, all named after four different metals.

• Bronze gate
• Golden gate
• Silver gate

The most Split attractions are concentrate among palace’s walls and knowing these gates will help you explore the old town by walking .

On the south of the Palace, usual starting point will be the bronze or brass gate , you can enter from the Riva, Split promenade.  Even it’s a small and narrow door to the palace ground floor, in the past it was a direct exit to the sea and safe escape in the case of an attack on the place.

This gate connects the palace cellars ( podrumi ) to the Peristyle, Palace’s main square.

To the north of the palace, Golden Gate was a main exit from the palace, connecting palace to Salona . Today Ivan Mestrovic’s statue of Bishop Grgur is just in front of this gate. It has a guardhouse that contains the 9th-century Church of St. Martin.

Iron Gate (Porta Ferrea)is the western entrance to the palace.  Above the door was built the church of Our Lady of the belfry, whose bell tower from the 11th century is the oldest preserved bell tower on the Adriatic coast.

In the Middle Ages this gate was called “free port” because it was the only one that was not closed when the city expanded westward. Iron Gate leads to Pjaca (People’s Square), which is a favorite meting place of the locals and tourists.

Silver Gate (Porta argentea) is the eastern entrance to the palace. It’s the most crowded entrance to the palace, connected with Split green market ‘Pazar’ and numerous stalls of all kinds of goods.

The Silver Gate leads directly to Decumanus , the original east-west street that leads to People’s Square.

17. Froggyland – The Best Children Split Attraction

This unusual place is more appropriate to be classified as a museum but as kids and parents will be delighted to visit it, I’ve decided to place it among top Split attractions.

If you want to see something different in Split, probably this small museum is really unusual place. I’m sure most of you have visited many aquariums around the world but never a Froggyland .

I’m sure you won’t be able to imagine seeing a frog doing things in everyday life situations.

The collection consists of 507 stuffed frogs of a common European frog species. It’s so amusing to see hundreds of stuffed frogs positioned in “human” poses.

The collection is made by Ferenc Mere , an eccentric to whom people were not that different from frogs. The collection was created in the period between 1910 and 1920. You can read more about it visiting museum’s website .

Museum displays frogs through the everyday people professions like blacksmith, carpenter, tailor, school master, circus and numerous life scene.

This small museum, just one big room with some steps going to the higher level is a unique museum but certainly worth visiting (family with kids won’t  be disappointed).  Entrance is free for kids and adults pay 25 kuna. The opening hours are from 10,00 to 22,00.

18. Marjan hill attractions

Marjan hill is an irresistible part of Split city. This wooded hill dominating the city center and waterfront promenade, deserves to be visited.

To see all Marjan hill attractions, one day waking tour will be an unforgettable adventure. This relatively small geographical area (length of 3.5 km and a width of 1 to 1.5 km), is important both in terms of diversity of plant species as well as for its cultural monuments.

Nicknamed, the lungs of the city, is the only place where you can find, little refreshment during hot summer days. Take my advice and after all Split attractions, Marjan hill will be relaxing experience.

Marjan Hill Churches

Marjan hill hides several important churches you can easily visit on on day tour of the hill.

Where to eat and drink?

• Get all tips on where to go and eat in and around Split.
• Split wine bars for  real connoisseurs.
• Discover all Split fast food secrets and places offering original, healthy on the go snacks.
• Split romantic restaurants to share a special moments.
• Split restaurants prices insights.
• Find out why the Konoba is the best places to experience typical Dalmatian cuisine
• Art & Culture
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• Sightseeing

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Below are my recommended sailing trips in Croatia from trusted companies and tour operators. Feel free to check the offers and links to find additional information and more related cruises!

From Split:

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From Dubrovnik:

• Dubrovnik Discovery - discover top destinations near Dubrovnik
• Southern Pearls - one-way cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
• Luxury at Sea - one-way luxury cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
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Depart from Dubrovnik on a week long cruise and explore Mljet, Hvar, Korcula, Trstenik, and Sipan.

More departure ports:

One-day sailing trips:.

• From Dubrovnik
• View all Croatia 1-day sailing trips

Organized tours are excellent ways to explore my beautiful country, and I highly recommend taking at least one trip during your visit. There are limitless fascinating places to see, and you can easily book a tour or day trip from my trusted partners below.

Below are five top rated tours from Split!

Discover more trip ideas:

• Top day trips from Split (my article)
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• Browse more tours on Viator (200+)

Find transfers and compare prices on:

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Cruises are fantastic and inexpensive way to discover multiple destinations in Croatia.

Dalmatian Islands Experience Cruise

8 days, 9 destinations

From Split to Omis or Pucisca (Brac island), Korcula, Lastovo, Green cave (Ravnik), Komiza, Blue cave (Bisevo), Stari Grad (Hvar), Bol (Brac island)

€ 615 - 890

(€ 76 - 111 per day)

Split to Dubrovnik Cruise

From Dubrovnik to Sipan or Slano, Mljet, Korcula, Bisevo, Vis, Hvar, Bol (Brac island), Makarska, Pucisca (Brac), Omis, and Split

€ 425 - 890

(€ 53 - 111 per day)

Dubrovnik Discovery Cruise

8 days, 6 destinations

From Dubrovnik to Mljet, Korcula, Hvar, Trstenik, and Sipan

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Pero is Splitgg's founder who was born and lived in Split most of his life. His passion for traveling and immense experience from working in tourism industry encouraged him to write many of our expert Split travel guides. More about our authors »

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Must-see attractions in Split

Diocletian’s Palace

Taking up a prime harborside position, the extraordinary complex of Diocletian's Palace is one of the most imposing ancient Roman structures in existence…

Klis Fortress

Controlling the valley leading into Split, the imposing Klis Fortress spreads along a limestone bluff, reaching 1260ft (385m) at its highest point. Its…

Cathedral of St Domnius

Split’s octagonal cathedral is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings still standing. It was built as a mausoleum for Diocletian, the last…

The ruins of the ancient city of Salona, situated at the foot of the mountains just northeast of Split, are the most archaeologically important in Croatia…

Temple of Jupiter

Although it's now the cathedral's baptistery, this wonderfully intact building was originally an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the king of the gods…

Archaeological Museum

A treasure trove of classical sculpture and mosaics is displayed at this excellent museum, a short walk north of the town centre. Most of the vast…

Meštrović Gallery

At this stellar art museum you’ll see a comprehensive, well-arranged collection of works by Ivan Meštrović, Croatia’s premier modern sculptor, who built…

Marjan Forest Park

Looming up to 178m over Split's western fringes, this nature reserve occupies a big space in Split's psyche. The views over the city and surrounding…

This picturesque colonnaded ancient Roman peristyle (courtyard) lies at the very heart of Diocletian's Palace. In summer you can almost be guaranteed a…

Grgur Ninski statue

Sculpted by Ivan Meštrović, this gargantuan statue is one of the defining images of Split. Its subject, a 10th-century Croatian bishop, fought for the…

Diocletian's Palace Substructure

The Bronze Gate of Diocletian's Palace once opened straight from the water into the palace basements, enabling goods to be unloaded and stored here. Now…

Split City Museum

Built by Juraj Dalmatinac in the 15th century for one of the many noblemen who lived within the old town, the Large Papalić Palace is considered a fine…

At the southern end of the peristil, above the basement stairs, is the vestibule, a grand and cavernous domed room, open to the sky, which was once the…

Our-Lady-of-Health Church

Completed in 1937, this striking Modernist church is notable for the simple, clean lines of its architecture. It's attached to a friary, founded in 1723…

Gallery of Fine Arts

Housed in a building that was the city’s first hospital (1792), this gallery exhibits 400 works of art spanning 700 years. Upstairs is the permanent…

Museum of Senses

This museum provides a workout for your senses. Wander through the museum’s five rooms, each of which teases your vision, hearing, smell, touch and…

Meštrović Crikvene-Kaštilac

This 16th-century fortified home, set in an olive grove near the Meštrović Gallery, was bought by Ivan Meštrović in 1939 and restored to house his…

Near the tip of the peninsula, Kašjuni is Split's most appealing beach, due largely to its green surroundings and stylish beach bar.

Split Ethnographic Museum

This mildly interesting museum occupies a former convent built within what was originally the emperor's bed chambers. Downstairs are temporary exhibitions…

This building near the main entrance to the ruins of the ancient city of Salona was built by the site's ground-breaking archaeologist Monsignor Frane…

Sandy Bačvice is Split's most popular beach. There's a lot of concrete and it's perpetually crowded, but it offers a good taste of everyday Split life…

Amphitheatre

Salona's huge 2nd-century amphitheatre was partly destroyed in the 17th century by the Venetians to prevent it from being used as a refuge by Turkish…

Manastirine

Numerous sarcophagi are scattered about this part of ancient Salona, situated between the car park and the museum. It was a burial place for Christian…

Less built up than nearby Bačvice, this little horseshoe cove has a slimline sandy beach with a bar down one end.

Wedged between the Bačvice and Firule bays, this little beach has a large cafe-bar and a slender strip of fine pebbles.

Built into the western wall of Diocletian's Palace, Split's synagogue is the third-oldest synagogue in Europe that's still in use. Created out of two…

Porta Caesarea

This 1st-century eastern city gate was later engulfed by Salona as the city spread eastwards. Grooves in the stone road left by ancient wheels can still…

Five Martyrs Basilica

Just outside the ancient walls of Salona is this ruined basilica. It was built on the site of an early Christian cemetery where the remains of some of…

At Salona very little remains of the Forum, the large square that was the administrative, economic and religious centre of every Roman city. More…

Golden Gate

The biggest and grandest of the city gates, this was the main processional entrance into Diocletian's Palace. Metal bars once blocked the outer entrance,…

Bronze Gate

The most unassuming of the gates to Diocletian's Palace, this humble entrance once opened straight from the water into the basement. Look up and you'll be…

Episcopal Centre

This section of the ruins of ancient Salona includes a three-aisled, 5th-century cathedral with an octagonal baptistery, and the remains of Bishop…

New Research on Split Cathedral

Situated opposite the Cathedral of St Domnius, this exhibition features large-scale photos of architectural features of the cathedral along with technical…

Silver Gate

Originally a double gate on the eastern wall of Diocletian's Palace, only the inner part of this portal remains, decorated with arches and niches that…

The high arches of this large double gate lead from Diocletian's Palace to the main city square.

The remains of the public baths of the ancient Roman city of Salona.

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15 Best Things to do in Split, Croatia

Architectural wonders, palm-tree-lined boulevards, buzzing nightlife, and magnificent beaches just a stone’s throw away: this is Split, Croatia ! The vibrant UNESCO port town is known for its movie-worthy scenery, used as the location for Game of Thrones and frequented by many movie stars. It’s easy to see why as you climb cobblestone streets, meander among dappled squares, and gaze across the tranquil Adriatic Sea from hilltop fortresses. Spend a few days enjoying the top things to do in Split, whether it’s cafe-hopping, gelato tasting, or sunset sailing.

Things to do in Split, Croatia

With its small-town feel and warm community, it’s surprising that Split is the second-largest city in Croatia. As such, it’s packed with things to do; discover countless ancient buildings, art galleries, boutiques, fantastic bars, and restaurants. It’s also a good starting point to explore some of Croatia’s most famous spots.

Also read: Complete 10-Day Croatia Itinerary

1. Diocletian’s Palace

The UNESCO Diocletian’s Palace is the gem of Split, widely known as the city’s most important landmark. The complex of impressive buildings sits at the heart of the oldest part of the city, reminding people of a long-forgotten Roman past. Although it resembles a fortress, it was actually built in the 4th century as the residence of the Roman Emporer, divided into living quarters and housing for armed troops. 

Discover the Diocletian’s Palace on this Old Town walking tour in Split

Tip: The main courtyard is one of the top things to do in Split. It’s designed in a beautiful Peristyle format (a central square within the Palace). 

Diocletian’s Cellars

Unsurprisingly, this mammoth structure was used as the setting for the filming of Game of Thrones, Croatia . These impressive stone cellars would have been used to store food and wine that was unloaded directly from the harbor. These days, there is an eerie silence, apart from the sound of water dripping, making for a great atmosphere and an undeniably good setting for Game of Thrones! 

Visit the Diocletian’s Cellars on a Game of Thrones tour

Opening Times and Tickets: Diocletian’s Palace is open 24/7 and is free entry. However, if you’d like to dive deeper and visit the famous Cellars, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for 7 EUR. Purchase your tickets in advance here .

2. Stroll Along the Riva Promenade

Discover the buzzing Riva promenade, a vibrant area adjacent to Split Harbor. Tourists and locals gather here for an evening stroll, a drink, or to eat dinner at one of the many outdoor restaurant terraces.

Tip: The water in Croatia is excellent quality from the taps, so bring your reusable water bottle with you to save on single-use plastic and travel plastic free ! As the city is so walkable (with many pedestrianized streets), you could wander for hours, so keep an eye out for the water fountains as you go.

Lined with palm trees, and colorful flowers, the promenade is the perfect place to relax. As it’s such a popular spot, it’s regularly used as a space to host events and festivals, so there’s always something to see! 

Here are all your hotel options in Split.

Tip: The Riva Promenade is where you’ll find most tour stands to book boat excursions to nearby islands. For example, Hvar or the famous Blue Cave (one of the top things to do in Split!). 

3. Climb the Bell Tower of Split Cathedral

For unbeatable city views, head to the beautiful Split Cathedral and climb to the top of the Romanesque bell tower. Standing at a grand height of 187 feet, it’s a bit of a walk to the top — up 200+ steep steps (quite scary if you’re afraid of heights). However, it’s all worth it when you reach the top. Here, you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular views over Split and the harbor. 

Did you know? In the true spirit of ‘pomalo’ (meaning ‘take your time’), construction on the Cathedral first began in the 13th century but was actually only completed in the 16th century!

Opening Times & Entrance Fee

A ticket to visit all the sights in and around the Cathedral costs €13. This includes entry to the Cathedral, Crypt, Baptistery (Temple of Jupiter), Treasury (Temple of Cybele), and Bell Tower.

Alternatively, you can purchase tickets for the Cathedral and Bell Tower only for 10 EUR. Please note you can buy your tickets on the opposite side of the square.

Open every day 7:30 AM – 6 PM except Sunday (12-6 PM).

4. Marjan Hill (Top Thing to do in Split, Croatia!)

Known by locals as ‘The lungs of Split’, Marjan Hill is a beautiful natural oasis where visitors can relax and breathe in the fresh air. Set amongst the luscious greenery of Marjan Forest Park, the hill sits very close to the center, with many walking trails leading away from the city. 

Start your hike from the city to the first viewpoint, which is covered by beautiful trees, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the nearby cafe. From here, you’ll be able to see the nearby islands of  Braç and Hvar in the distance. 

If you’re feeling energetic, continue the hike via a steep but manageable pathway. On the way, you will pass lovely gardens, plenty of trees, and white benches for a much-needed rest before reaching the cross at the top, known as Telegrin Viewpoint. We recommend coming here at sunrise for the most beautiful golden views.  

Opening Times and Entry Fee: The Marjan Forest Park in Split, Croatia, is free and open 24/7. Adventure lovers can also discover a range of other activities here, from cycling to rock climbing.

5. Kasjuni Beach

Not many cities have picture-perfect beaches just a bus ride away, and Split is one of them! Just 10 minutes drive from the Old Town is the beautiful Kasjuni Beach: a pebble beach with crystal clear water perfect for swimming. Unwind from city life, sip refreshing drinks at the beach bar, and enjoy fantastic views of the sea.

Bacvice Beach is also a popular choice, as it’s located right next to the city. However, expect it to be busier as a result.

Tip: For a great way to see the city and some nearby scenery, walk to Kasjuni Beach in 45 minutes instead of taking the bus. 

6. Charming Split Old Town

Split’s Old Town is a maze of narrow historic alleys. These cobbled pathways lead to the majestic Diocletian’s Palace. Not far, the People’s Square (Pjaca) bustles with energy, its terraces brimming with chatter from both locals and travelers. Just around the corner, the Cyprian’s Palace stands as an emblem of the town’s beauty.

And Split Old Town proudly displays its Golden Gate – a grand entrance that once welcomed emperors and now invites travelers into a world of historical wonders.

7. Cafe Hopping in Split, Croatia!

One of the top things to do in Split is to enjoy ‘Fjaka’: the local tradition of taking a few hours over coffee with friends. There are plenty of cafes to put this tradition into practice, many of which are dotted throughout the picturesque Old Town. Grab a coffee at D16 Coffee, or have an epic brunch at Ciri Biri Bela. 

Tip: The city has many traditional taverns known as Konobas. These are often family-run, with a cozy authentic feel, serving up typical Croatian fare.

8. Pazar Farmer’s Market

Looking for some local Croatian produce to take home? The Pazar Farmer’s Market is the place to go! This buzzing spot sells everything from fruits and vegetables to cured meats, olive oil, honey, and fresh flowers. You will also find clothing and trinkets, making it a great place to pick up your souvenirs. 

Read: Best Things To Do in Croatia

Spend an hour or so taking in Dalmation life, watching elderly locals filling up their trolleys and bargaining for this week’s seasonal produce. Don’t forget to grab something for yourself for a lunchtime picnic! We recommend fresh cherries, strawberries, or peaches, which you can enjoy in the market square or take to Marjan Hill. 

Opening Times and Location: The market is located here , right next to the historic center. The opening times are 6 AM – 2 PM, but be sure to go in the morning when you have lots of choices.

9. Klis Fortress

Straddling a mammoth ridge in the valley outside Split, discover the imposing Klis Fortress (the site of many historical battles). The fortress is known as the ‘Key to Dalmatia’ for its military position and importance. However, these days, the Fortress is most recognizable as the setting for many a scene in Game of Thrones, Croatia . Remember when Daenerys had the enslavers killed at Meereen? Yes, this is that exact spot!

Approach the rocky peak and pass through the 3 ancient gateways, scaling its walls for panoramic views over Split and the many Adriatic islands. The Fortress stays open until 10 PM, so we recommend visiting later in the day so you’re there for sunset. It’s one of the best things to do in Split!

Opening Hours & Entrance Fee: Open 8:30 AM – 10 PM daily. 10 EUR. Book your tickets online here .

Getting There: 20 to 40 minutes drive from the city center, depending on the type of transportation. You can get there by car, public bus, or with a guided tour.

Stella Croatica

Nearby to Klis Fortress is Stella Croatica, a family estate with an olive oil museum, Mediterranean gardens, and a traditional tavern that serves locally produced foods. If you want to master some local recipes, they offer Dalmatian cooking lessons (highly recommended as a thing to do in Split, Croatia!).

Opening Hours & Entrance Fee: Included in the price of the Klis Fortress ticket. Open 10 AM – 3:30 PM every day except Monday. Book your ticket for Stella Croatica and Klis Fortress .

10. Get Lost in the Narrow Streets of Trogir

Nicknamed the ‘Little Venice’ of Croatia, visiting Trogir is one of the top things to do in Split! However, you won’t find any gondolas or canals here. Instead, this beautiful town is thought to resemble Venice because of its maze of narrow streets.

Read more: Best Things to do in Trogir, Croatia .

From Split, cross over to the small island where the town is situated, connected by two bridges to the mainland. In Trogir , you’ll find yourself in an ancient world of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Many quaint restaurants, cafes, and boutiques can be found in the narrow streets. Spend an afternoon exploring the Old Town and strolling on the lovely waterfront promenade or relaxing on the nearby beaches.

As Trogir is located only a 10-minute drive from the airport, it’s a great alternative to staying in Split, particularly if you’re looking for something a bit quieter. In fact, this UNESCO town is car-free, making it even more tranquil! 

Hotels in Trogir 😴

Getting there: There are coaches and local buses from Split bus station, or you can rent a car and drive. It is a 30-minute drive from Split and just a 10-minute drive from Split Airport. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour for more ease.

11. Day Trip to Krka National Park

Don’t miss seeing the breathtaking Krka National Park , one of the most naturally beautiful spots in all of Croatia ! There are many different ways to explore the park itself, whether it’s by boat or on foot. However, all the trails and routes will lead you to a series of powerful waterfalls (7 that you can admire up close and personal).

See availability for a Krka National Park day tour from Split

Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap are the two most popular options, and there are wonderful hiking trails to get there. From wooden boardwalks, you can admire beautiful views of crystal clear streams, colorful fish, and magnificent flora and fauna. 

Tip: If you’ve got a car, you can visit some of the more remote falls. Alternatively, a guided tour from Split is a great option, including return transportation and entrance into the park. 

Read more about the waterfalls of Krka National Park in Croatia .

12. Island Hopping from Split, Croatia

Take a break from city life for a day out at sea! The coast off Split is home to many islands, lagoons, and caves, each one as beautiful as the next. From the famous Blue Cave, with its magical luminescent water, to the remote Island of Vis (the furthest inhabited island from Croatia’s mainland), there is so much to see and discover in the waters of Split! 

You can find most of the island hopping boat stands down on the Riva Promenade. Alternatively, book your trip in advance online and get excited for a day of snorkeling, swimming, and adventure.

See availability and tickets for a 5 islands day trip

13. Hvar Island

Hvar Island has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best places to visit in Croatia , and it doesn’t disappoint! One of the best things to do in Split is to take a day trip to Hvar (via ferry) to explore the stunning terracotta-roofed town, its beaches, olive groves, and the UNESCO site of Stari Grad Plain.

Buy your ferry ticket to Hvar in advance

Start in Hvar Town , allowing plenty of time to explore the many incredible cafes, restaurants, museums, and galleries. Then rent a motorbike to discover the charming countryside outside the city walls. In the afternoon, relax at the paradise pebble beaches on the island, with crystal clear water, before enjoying a sundowner on one of the sea-view restaurant terraces. 

Tip: If you have time, we recommend staying at least a night in Hvar Town to enjoy the world-famous nightlife!

Getting There: Regular ferries leaving from Split to Hvar old town and Stari Grad, which take around  1-2 hours. It’s best to book ahead during the busy summer season. Alternatively, take a Split-guided tour, including all travel and experiences.

See availability for a day trip to Hvar from Split

14. Brac Island (Alternative to Hvar)

For the ultimate island tranquility, head for the stunning shores of Brac: a quiet island with perfectly preserved nature under an hour’s ferry ride away from Split, Croatia. You’ll find the highest mountain peak here. It a great spot for walkers who come to make the most of the fantastic natural trails.

Read: 9 Best things to do on Brac Island!

At the end of a day of exploration, head to one of the charming fishing villages that line the coast. Alternatively, relax on one of Croatia’s most revered spots: Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), a breathtaking strip of sand that juts out from the island and is surrounded by rings of ever-changing turquoise waters.

Getting there: 50-minute ferry ride from Split to Bol (foot passengers) or Supetar (cars). Book your ferry tickets to Brac in advance here .

15. Outdoor Adventure in Split, Croatia

Get your adrenaline flowing with some outdoor adventure — one of the top things to do in Split, Croatia! With such fantastic landscapes right on your doorstep, there is a multitude of thrilling activities to choose from. Try river rafting in deep canyons, zip-lining across wide-open valleys, cliff-jumping off the rugged coastline, or SUP night glow tours. Choosing to explore the area around Split in one of these ways is unforgettable and gives you a totally unique perspective of the Croatian countryside.

Best Cafes & Restaurants in Split, Croatia

While the food in Split is mainly Mediterranean in style, you will also find traditional Dalmatian dishes like Pasticada, a local stew made from beef marinated in wine and prunes. In other cities, it can be harder to find veggie and vegan options. However, Split is a little bit different; the city is home to contemporary cafe culture, with plenty of vegan restaurants as well as crowd favorites like Italian, kebabs, and seafood.

• Ciri Biri Bela
• Pizzeria Portas
• Konoba Laganini

Tip: Split, Croatia , is the city of gelato! There are gelato shops everywhere you look, so always save some room for a sweet treat after your meal.

Where to Stay in Split

For first-time visitors, we recommend you stay in the Old Town around the Diocletian’s Palace. This beautiful area is home to some of the most fantastic buildings in the city and is close to all the best things to do in Split. 

Hotels in Split 😴

Alternatively, if you’d rather stay somewhere more tranquil, base yourself in nearby Trogir (close to the airport) and travel into Split during the days to sightsee and enjoy the delicious restaurants.

How Many Days in Split, Croatia?

One of the best things about Split is how small and walkable it is, which means you can see most of the top sights in one day. However, if you want to visit all the incredible neighboring islands, towns, and national parks, we recommend staying 3 days. You can visit these further away spots by yourself (you will need a car for those that are more remote) or on a guided tour.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Croatia trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

How to Visit Split, Croatia

The international airport of Split is a 30-minute drive from the city center and just a 10-minute drive from the charming town of Trogir . 

There are plenty of transport options from the airport into the city center, including the taxi apps Bolt and Uber, regular taxis, or public buses.

Getting Around

The city is very walkable, meaning you can reach most of the top things to do in Split on foot. In our opinion, this is always the best way to see the city (you never know what interesting shops, cafes, and bars you’ll find!).

If you want to explore outside the city, rent a car for more flexibility, or take public buses or a guided tour.

We recommend to rent a car in Croatia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How Much Does Split Cost?

Although Split isn’t Croatia’s cheapest city, it caters to all budgets. For example, there are great restaurants where you can have a delicious dinner with a glass of wine for about 30 EUR per person. Or, if you’re looking for something cheaper, you can also opt for a takeaway pizza to enjoy in the park by Riva for a much lower price.

Costs of Traveling in Split

Travel on a budget in Split, from $580 − $470 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1740 − $2700 USD, and high-end from $2560 − $3280 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $150 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $20 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $40 − $90 USD
• Activities: $10 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Split, Croatia

The beaches and islands of Split are best enjoyed in the prime summer months when everyone heads for the coast. However, this period is the most expensive and crowded (mainly because there are many festivals during this time).

For a good alternative, choose the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall for lower prices, fewer people, and balmy temperatures, which are perfect for sightseeing.

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10 Best Things To Do in Pula, Croatia

Kamenjak national park (croatia’s natural gem), 9 best things to do in trogir, croatia.

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25 BEST Things To Do In Split, Croatia (2024 Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Split, Croatia?

Full of history and culture, Split is one of the most popular cities in Croatia that lies on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.

There are so many awesome things to do in Split Croatia to suit all types of travelers, and I can’t wait for you to discover everything there is to know about this charming medieval town!

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPLIT CROATIA

Before I dive into all the details about what to do in Split Croatia, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHERE IS SPLIT?

Split is located in southeast Europe in Croatia, a crescent-shaped country south of Slovenia and borders the Adriatic Sea.

The city lies along the southern tip of the country, with the international airport situated just 19km to the west of the town.

Surrounded by tall mountains, Split also boasts a multitude of small islands off its beautiful coastline such as Hvar, Brac, and Vis Island .

HOW TO GET TO SPLIT CROATIA?

Flying into Split is the most popular way to get to the city from outside of Croatia.

Because it has become a popular holiday destination, a lot of low-budget airlines are now chartering flights, making it relatively low-cost if you are flying from inside Europe.

Split International Airport is located just a 30-minute drive outside of the city and there is an airport shuttle bus that runs frequently from the airport to the main ferry port in Split for just 35 Kuna per person.

Click here to see the bus timetable and book online in advance.

PRIVATE TRANSFER:

If you would prefer a private transfer from Split International Airport to your hotel, you can search on Viator for all available transfer options.

Split is also very well connected by bus routes if traveling to the city from inside Croatia, with regular bus routes from all other major cities, including Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Sibenik.

Flixbus is the most popular and affordable bus company in Croatia with an easy online booking system.

You can also search on Bookaway.com which has a range of local bus companies and private transportation options to choose from when traveling in Croatia.

The city is also on a train route, which is cheaper than the bus, however, it’s not as reliable as the bus routes and doesn’t offer a regular service.

And lastly, the oldest and most popular way to reach Split is by ferry, with both domestic and international connections from Italy and any of the Central Dalmatian Islands.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN SPLIT?

To tick off all the things to do in Split, the easiest way to get around is on foot as the town is quite small and most accommodations are located within walking distance of the city center.

It is not advised to use a car to get around as parking is very difficult, especially in the city center. If you do want to drive, I recommend jumping in a taxi or an Uber instead.

If you are planning on doing some overland day trips to nearby towns such as Zadar or Sibenik, it’s possible to rent a car in Split for around $70 per day.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

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BEST TIME TO VISIT SPLIT?

The best time to visit Split is during its summer months of June to September, with temperatures hitting between 19°C and 30°C, these temperatures are perfect for boating, swimming, and enjoying the cobblestoned city.

The summer months, however, are also the busiest tourist times so if you are looking to visit the city when it’s a little quieter then September and October are recommended as temperatures are still up before the winter drop.

This is also the season with fun things to do in Split and you’ll surely want to experience that.

HOW MANY DAYS IN SPLIT CROATIA?

Split is the perfect city to visit with any itinerary in mind.

Due to its central location, you could do the main Split sightseeing points in just two days but spending around five days would really allow you to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

If it’s a longer break you are after, there is plenty to see and do including the nearby surrounding islands.

You can also travel further inland to explore some of Croatia’s stunning national parks such as Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park .

SHOULD I GET THE SPLIT CARD?

When you arrive in Split, I recommend getting your hands on a  Split Card which you can use to enjoy the very best of the city – from free museum admissions to discounts at some of the city’s best restaurants, retail shops, and rental car providers.

Split Card is completely FREE and you can head to one of the tourist information centers located at TIC Peristil, TIC Riva, and TIC Stobreč, to pick one up.

The card is valid for 3 days (72 hours) and to be eligible you need to be staying in Split for 5 nights or more in any accommodation if you are visiting during summer from April to the end of September.

Or if you are staying in Split for 2 nights or more in any type of accommodation during winter from October to the end of March.

Click here for more info about the Split Card and see the Split must see activities included.

25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPLIT CROATIA

Now that we’ve got all the logistical information out of the way, let’s get to the fun stuff!

So, without further ado, here is your complete guide to the 25 Best Things To Do In Split Croatia!

BEST TOUR IN SPLIT

Looking for an awesome day trip? The best tour in Split is the Island Hopping Tour With the Blue Cave !

It includes hotel transfers, the boat tour, all fees, and a fun guide to share the day with!

EXPLORE DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE

First up on this extensive list of what to do in Split is Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient palace built for the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the fourth century AD.

The palace is located in Split Old Town and covers about half of the town.

It’s one of the best-preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world and the substructures can still be explored today, showcasing Roman architecture at its finest.

Walking the palace could easily be an activity that fills your whole day if you enjoy architecture and learning the history, especially surrounding the later added Gothic and Medieval fortifications.

JOIN A SPLIT WALKING TOUR

During your visit, there are many Split walking tours that can be easily booked online , each offering very reasonable rates that can be upgraded to include wine and food tasting.

Most Split walking tours last between one and two hours and can be selected on what areas of the city you would like to visit including the palace and the port.

See below the most top-rated walking tour in Split and book online in advance to be guaranteed the best rates.

JOIN AN ECO CITY TOUR

If there’s one activity in Split that you don’t want to miss, it’s probably this one. Get on an electric rickshaw (also called tuk tuk) and explore the city from a different angle.

The eco city tour lasts about 2 hours and you’ll get to see the most popular spots, from Diocletian’s Palace, Bacvice Beach, Grgur Ninski Statue, and many more.

The best part? This is a private tour, which means it’s going to be for your group only, as opposed to sharing the moment with strangers.

The guides are very accommodating too, and they’ll be happy to change the schedule to add anything you have in mind.

Note that since this tour was introduced in Split, it got very popular and they often sell out, so I recommend booking as soon as possible.

STEP INSIDE ST DUJE’S CATHEDRAL

Built in the 7th century AD, St. Duje’s Cathedral is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that remains in use in its original structure.

The wooden doors of the cathedral are regarded as some of the best examples of Romanesque sculpture in Croatia, carved by the Croatian sculptor Andrija Buvina around 1214.

This breathtaking cathedral is a must-see on your list of things to do in Split Croatia.

GO CANYONING ON CETINA RIVER

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with this half-day canyoning tour on the Cetina River!

Step out of your comfort zone and dive right into the canyon, filled with hidden caves, tumbling waterfalls, and natural pools.

After a pickup from your hotel in Split, your guide will drive you to the Cetina Canyon where you will gear up in a life jacket and helmet for your journey.

Get ready to explore subterranean tunnels and caves, swimming in natural pools, and feeling the thrill as you dive into 50-meter-high waterfalls.

Are there even more active, unique, and thrilling things to do in Split Croatia?

TAKE A PICTURE IN PERISTIL SQUARE

Located in the heart of the palace, Peristil Square is the perfect photo opportunity spot.

The architecture of the surrounding palace and the towering views flanked by two colonnades make this one of the top Split attractions worth visiting on your tour of the palace.

Hot tip: The earlier you visit Peristil Square the better, as this way you’ll avoid the midday crowds and won’t have anybody photobombing your shot!

The BEST Hotel in Split

Need a place to stay? Radisson Blu Resort & Spa is conveniently located in Split City Center.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Radisson Blu Resort offers the best of both worlds.

JOIN A TOUR TO MOSTAR AND HERZEGOVINA FROM SPLIT

While taking a holiday in the Balkans , Mostar is one of the best places to visit, and what better place than Split to start a tour?

On the way to Mostar, you’ll learn about the Christian and Muslim history in town and you’ll review the schedule before getting there.

It’s worth noting that the UNESCO-listed bridge of Mostar is included and you can jump from it if you’re daring enough!

Apart from that, you’ll also discover Počitelj and Kravica Waterfall, which are 2 other nice places you shouldn’t miss when coming to the Balkans.

Last but not least, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and WiFi onboard are included.

SIGN UP FOR AN ATV QUAD SAFARI

If you’re up for some action, joining an ATV tour is an excellent option.

You’ll get to choose between a morning or afternoon trip, and it’s a small group which means a more personalized experience when joining.

Once you get to the ATV spot, you’ll receive a short training from a certified instructor and then start the ride with the mountains in the background.

After enjoying the ride, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic-style lunch with your guide and newly made friends.

CLIMB THE BELL TOWER

Towering over Peristil Square is the bell tower, a 57-meter tall belfry that offers spectacular views of the city from the top whilst displaying some of the city’s finest architecture on the climb up.

The cost to climb the stairs to the top of the Split bell tower is 40 Kuna. From here, you’ll see all the must see Split activities and landscape, which is something not to miss out on.

GO SEA KAYAKING IN SPLIT

Next up on this Split travel guide, and one of the more fun-fuelled activities in Split is to go sea kayaking!

There is a range of sea kayaking options available, from hitting the waves yourself to guided tours taking in the coastline and hidden gems.

There are also sunset kayaking tours on offer which allow you to experience the breathtaking sunsets over the Adriatic Sea.

Split kayaking tours can be easily booked online with a range of trip lengths available and most are around the $50 price range.

VISIT THE SPLIT CITY MUSEUM

Located inside the center of Old Town, the Split City Museum is home to paintings, sculptures, weapons, and armor documenting the city’s cultural history from its beginnings.

The museum is one of the best things to see in Split and offers beautiful views across the palace from its windows whilst displaying Roman architecture on the inside, as well as the incredible collection of artifacts on display.

Split City Museum is open six days a week to the public, closed on Sundays.

CHECK OUT THE MUSEUM OF FINE ART

Founded in 1931, Splits Museum of Fine Art contains works of art from the 14th century up to the present day, housing a private collection of over 3,500 pieces.

The old master’s collections feature work from artists including Paolo Veneziano, Andrija Alesi, Girolamo Brusaferro, and Matej Ponzoni.

The contemporary collection includes works by Croatian artists including Ivo Dulčić, Ljubo Ivančić, Slavko Kopač, Ivan Kožarić, and Đuro Seder.

This is a must-visit place in Split for art historians or general art lovers.

Closed on a Monday, the museum is open every other day from 10 am – 6 pm, except Sunday when it closes at 2 pm.

GO ISLAND HOPPING

When searching for what to do in Split Croatia, island hopping is always a good choice!

With the ferry service in Split being very affordable and very well run, it’s super easy to hop on and off and enjoy the local islands off the coast of the city.

With over 15 locations to choose from on the nearby islands, you can plan a whole day and night of hopping from place to place to take in what each one has to offer.

Ubli, Vela Luka, Hvar, Vis, Grad, and Rogac are all on the main route out of Split so these are the easiest to access, however, other routes can be accessed and planned from each of these locations.

These tours get very popular and I recommend booking online before coming to secure your spot!

HIKE TO MARJAN HILL VIEWPOINT

Next up on this list of things to do in Split Croatia is Marjan Hill which sits nearly 600 feet above the city and can be accessed by hiking the 314 steps to its viewpoint.

Marjan Hill is a green oasis near the center of the Old Town and is surrounded at its base by the city’s beautiful architecture.

From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city of Split which is perfect for enjoying hiking, walking, and rock climbing.

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RUB THE GOLDEN TOE ON THE GRGUR NINSKI STATUE

This statue is 8.5 meters tall and was first erected in 1929 on the outer walls of Diocletian’s Palace.

Created by sculptor Ivan Mestrović, the statue of Grgur who was the bishop of the Croatian town of Nin from 900-929, is now believed to bring good luck to anyone who rubs his toe.

Today, the toe has been worn smooth and is shiny as a result. It’s one of the most unique Split things to do when in town.

MARVEL AT THE CHAPEL OF HOLY ARNIR

This Benedictine monastery located outside the northern walls of Split was built in 1069.

The main building was devastated by fire in 1888 and all that remains today is the bell tower and a small chapel.

The Chapel of Holy Arnir, located in a beautiful corner of the city, is a worthy addition to your list of things to see in Split.

CHECK OUT JUPITER’S TEMPLE

Located in the western part of Diocletian’s Palace near the square is the temple originally dedicated to the Roman God Jupiter.

Built between 295 and 305, the temple shows off exquisite carvings of Roman Gods around the doors, tomb, and vault.

Inside the temple, there is a large bronze statue of St. John the Baptist made by Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović.

As you tour the palace, Jupiter’s Temple is an ideal place to stop and marvel at the history and culture this city has to offer.

SNAP A PHOTO OF THE GOLDEN GATE

Originally built as the Emperor’s entrance to the palace, the Golden Gate is one of the most famous Split attractions due to the magnitude and elegance of the structure.

Highly decorated and sculptured, including works from some of Croatia’s most famous artists, this is a must-visit tourist spot in Split to snap your photos.

SIP ON A COCKTAIL AT MISTRAL BEACH CLUB

Located right on the oceanfront, this bar and restaurant offer spectacular views out over the waves from the open-air tables on the deck.

Offering a range of cocktails and an extensive seafood menu, whether you are looking for a few afternoon drinks or a meal, Mistral Beach Club is a beautiful location to pause and enjoy the views out to sea with the ancient city looming behind you.

It’s safe to say that it’s one of the best things to do Split has to offer and you’ll want to stay until sunset!

WANDER AROUND REPUBLIC SQUARE

Often compared to St Mark’s Square in Venice, this beautiful open space in the city is a must-see in Split to take in the wonder of the city’s architecture and culture.

On the south side, you are greeted with views of the harbor and Riva, and throughout the year the square is host to many cultural events, including the pop festival.

The square is also filled with local restaurants and bars, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to grab something to eat and drink.

STROLL ALONG THE RIVA PROMENADE

The Riva Promenade runs the length of the harbor and a not to be missed on your list of what to do in Split.

With its wide-open pathways and beautifully decorated outlays the views of the harbor and out across the sea make this the perfect spot for an early morning or evening stroll.

The promenade is dotted with little boutiques for gelato, street food, and drinks to enjoy on your walk, as well as many restaurants if you fancy stopping for a meal.

In short, it’s a great idea of Split what to see and you’ll definitely pass by the Promenade while in town!

VISIT THE OUTDOOR MARKET

Despite the growing number of supermarkets in the city, the open markets still remain a firm favorite with both locals and tourists alike in Split Croatia.

Offering an array of seafood, local fruit and veg, clothing apparel, and souvenirs, the outdoor markets are full of color and character.

A visit to these markets is one of the top things to do in Split to really experience all of the local produce the city has to offer.

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GO SWIMMING AT BACVICE BEACH

Located near the center of the city’s coastline, Bacvice Beach is a beautiful sandy beach, perfect for that afternoon dip or early morning swim looking for the Split things to do.

During the summer months, the beach can be quite crowded, but between September and October, it is a lot quieter, whilst still maintaining temperatures suitable for swimming.

Bacvice Beach is lined with restaurants and bars, the perfect place to spend the day enjoying the sand, sea, and cocktails.

GET LOST IN THE OLD TOWN

Known as the historical and cultural center of the city, the Old Town of Split is home to the palace, bell tower, and temple.

It displays the richest of the city’s architecture, sculpture, design, and heritage.

It is the perfect place to spend the day just wandering and taking in all the sights as there will always be something new to be found and seen.

BOOK A SUNSET CRUISE

A sunset cruise is one of the absolutely must-do Split activities during your visit, and because it’s one of the top things to do in Split Croatia, I highly recommend booking online in advance to save your spot!

Set off from Split Harbor on a beautiful yacht in the early evening, see the city from a different perspective, and sit back, relax, and enjoy the serenity as you cruise along the coastline.

Oh, and to make this experience even better, you can enjoy complimentary champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks, all accompanied by live music onboard.

WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA

Split has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: RADISSON BLUE RESORT & SPA

MID-RANGE: APARTMENTS TUDOR

BUDGET: T-HOSTEL SPLIT

For More Options, Search on Booking.com

Best day trips from split.

Apart from what to see in Split Croatia, you’ll also want to take a day trip outside of the city to explore the Croatian countryside and other cities.

Read on to know the best things to do near Split!

HVAR ISLAND

A day trip from Split to Hvar Island is the perfect way to spend a day whilst vacationing in Croatia.

This small island off the coast of the city offers amazing scenery and breathtaking views.

Ferries from Split to Hvar run throughout the day, but also catamaran tours to the island can be booked on the Get Your Guide website .

Hvar town offers a beautiful harbor, pristine beaches, a gorgeous old town, and a range of local restaurants and seaside bars. What more could you ask for?!

Omis is located on the mainland just 45 minutes drive to the south of Split.

It’s perfect for a day trip to this beautiful town that is set on the seaside and surrounded by a hilly backdrop.

This is a fun-fuelled getaway if you are looking to do some hiking or rock climbing.

Some of the most insane coastal views can be seen from the hilltops stretching out over the town and the Adriatic Sea.

Buses from Split to Omis run throughout the day and it’s easiest to book your bus ticket online in advance on Bookaway.com .

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Vis Island is famed for its blue cave and pocket beaches and it’s the perfect day trip from Split if you are looking to experience the magic of my personal favorite island in Croatia.

Boasting crystal clear waters, wineries, and two Old Towns, Vis Island is best explored by scooter, car, or even boat tours around the island.

Ferries from Split to Vis run throughout the day.

Read More : 9 Awesome Things To Do On Vis Island

PLITVICE LAKES

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located north of Split, about a 3-hour bus ride but this day trip is absolutely worth the travel time.

This beautiful national park is full of lakes and mesmerizing waterfalls, and it’s a great addition to other Split activities.

You can plan a visit DIY or guided tours are available to take you on the best routes and to get the best sights and views within the park.

If you book the Plitvice Lakes day tour from Split , transportation, entrance tickets, and lunch are included, all for around $100. All in all, it’s a great response to what to see in Split Croatia!

KRKA WATERFALLS

When looking for Split what to do, Krka National Park is a great option, it’s famed for its seven waterfalls and is located just a couple of hours north up the coast from Split.

From Split to Krka Waterfalls, you can visit DIY or book a guided tour to see the falls and then be shown around the national park for the best photo opportunity spots.

Air-conditioned bus trips operate to Krka National Park from Split, making this the perfect way to spend a day whilst in Croatia.

Located to the west of Split, just a short bus or ferry ride away lying on a small island connected to the mainland and the island of Čiovo by bridges is the town of Trogir.

This beautiful old town is known for its mix of Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque buildings. If you enjoy the architecture and culture of Split then Trogir is definitely worth a visit.

With its stunning skyline against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, and filled with local shops, restaurants, and bars, the town of Trogir is a must-see during your travels.

Day trips to Dubrovnik , an amazing city further down the coast of Croatia run from Split on a daily basis.

The 4-hour bus ride runs right down the coastal path so you can enjoy outstanding views out over the Dalmatian Islands.

The city itself offers amazing architecture, culture, and history with so much to see and plenty of wonderful restaurants and bars.

Also, when thinking about what to visit in Split if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll definitely want to come as it’s famed as the main setting for Kings Landing in the series.

Day trips from Split to Dubrovnik cost around $75 and include a return bus trip, a guided tour in the morning, and free time to explore in the afternoon before returning to Split.

WHAT TO PACK FOR SPLIT CROATIA

When visiting Split, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

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More Croatia Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Croatia!

FINAL THOUGHTS – WHAT TO DO IN SPLIT CROATIA

So as you can see, Split is one of the most beautiful cities along the Croatian coastline that holds so much history and culture.

The beauty of Split is that it’s home to some of the most spectacular beaches and a beautiful old town where you can get the best of both a city and beach holiday in one.

Furthermore, when looking at places to visit on your Croatia itinerary, Split is definitely not to be missed!

I hope you enjoyed reading this travel guide, and if you have any questions, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

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THANKS FOR READING

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A complete travel guide to Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia is the largest town in Dalmatia and the second-largest in Croatia. Split is a coastal city, with a small-town vibe, noisy streets, and easy-going locals. 

Once a stopover place for tourists catching a ferry to nearby islands, or a bus to other more exciting tourist destinations, Split is today among the most popular places to visit in Croatia.

Located in the middle of the Dalmatia, Split makes a great base for your tour of Croatia. It is also an important transport hub and a port city.

In this Split Travel Guide, you’ll learn where Split is, the best time to visit Split, and the reasons to visit. We also share the best things to see and do in Split, places to stay, eat, and drink as well as provide all necessary travel information to help you plan your stay in Split, Croatia.

Split is a wonderful town to visit from June to October. Its old town offers a variety of attractions, including lively cafes, a scenic seafront promenade called Riva, charming restaurants serving delicious dishes, beautiful beaches, historic boutique hotels, and cozy wine bars that attract many visitors each year.

The town also has beautiful beaches and accommodation options for all budgets and styles, from historic boutique hotels to hip hostels and vacation rentals.

You can find some late-night bars and nightclubs in various areas of the town. With convenient public transport and car rental options, getting around Split is easy, and we explain it all below.

Let us help you plan your visit to Split, Croatia with this comprehensive Split Travel Guide.

Table of Contents

Where is Split, Croatia?

Split is situated in central Dalmatia, a region in southern Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea coast.

It is located on a small peninsula which is bounded by Marjan Hill on the western side, while Mounts Kozjak and Mosor rise to the north and northwest of the city.

The old town of Split is compact and walkable. Visitors can easily access the city’s primary attractions, including Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva promenade.

Below is the map of Split.

Below, you will find the distances between Split and some major Croatian and European towns.

Croatian Towns

• Dubrovnik: 230 km
• Plitvice Lakes: 240 km
• Pula: 520 km
• Zagreb: 410 km
• Zadar: 160 km

European Cities

• Budapest: 750 km
• Milano: 900 km
• Munich: 870 km
• Sarajevo: 240 km
• Vienna: 760 km

Best time to visit Split Croatia

Although Split is a great destination all year round, the ideal time to visit is from June to October. However, June and September offer better conditions compared to July and August due to the scorching heat and the huge crowds of tourists in July and August. In comparison, June and September offer pleasant weather, but September has a slight edge over June because the sea is warmer.

The best time to visit Split is during the second half of September. This is when the weather is still warm, dry and sunny, but not too hot. Moreover, the sea temperatures are still high enough for swimming. By mid-September, school holidays are over, so there are fewer tourists in Split and Croatia in general.

Therefore, the second half of September is the perfect time to visit Split if you want to enjoy the weather, the sea, and the attractions without the crowds.

How many days do you need in Split?

Although Split is the second-largest town in Croatia, the old town is compact and small enough that you can easily visit Split in one day .

But if you want to experience more of Split, including the town’s beaches, nearby islands, and surroundings, consider staying there for at least three days.

You can also use Split as your base in Croatia and explore from there many must-visit places in Croatia and beyond. If you decide to base yourself in Split during your trip to Croatia, consider staying there for up to seven days.

weather in Split Croatia

Split has a Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers and wet and mild winters. Weather in Split in winter is mild, with average winter temperatures in the range from 8°C to 12°C and it is uncommon for it to snow. However, Split gets a strong northwest wind, called Bura, in winter. When this wind blows, it gets really cold in Split.

On the other hand, the summers in Split are very dry and hot. Rainfall is scarce during summer, and on the rare occasion when it does rain, it doesn’t last long. The average temperature in July and August is around 25°C, but this is an average for the month and includes both daytime and nighttime temperatures. This means that during the day, temperatures rise well above 30°C.

Below is a graph that displays the average monthly sea temperatures in Split. Keep in mind that these are just average values and don’t always reflect the actual temperature. For instance, the sea temperature at the start of June is always lower than at the end of June when it is warm enough for comfortable swimming.

Why should you visit Split?

Reasons attracting thousands of visitors to Split every year include Split’s rich history, vibrant urban vibes, and stunning coastal beauty. From the ancient ruins of Diocletian Palace to the bustling cafes and charming restaurants, Split is a place in Croatia that you can’t miss.

Moreover, Split is more affordable than other popular spots in Croatia, and it has a central location, breezy beaches, historic boutique hotels, and cozy wine bars.

If you are not sure if you should visit Split during your time in Croatia, here are the reasons to add Split to your Croatia itinerary.

• The vibe! We absolutely love the vibe in Split! It has an incredible urban atmosphere, yet it feels slow-paced and relaxing. The 1,700-year-old Diocletian Palace, the heart of the town, is full of cafés, cool bars, and lovely restaurants. The seafront promenade, Riva, is a source of pride for all the locals and is always bustling with people. You’ll even find locals playing a ball game in the shallow sea of the Bacvice beach, even during winter.
• Split is still affordable!  Split isn’t the most budget-friendly place to visit, but it is still relatively cheaper compared to other popular destinations in Croatia, such as Dubrovnik and Hvar. You can enjoy a good quality meal for as low as €13 ($14.30, £11.20), coffee at some bars in Split’s old town for only €1.30 ($1.40, £1.10) and a 0.5L of local draft beer for €3.5 ($3.90, £3). Accommodation is also affordable, with the exception of the Ultra Festival period when prices get crazy expensive. Therefore, if you’re planning to visit Split, it’s better to do it sooner rather than later as prices are continually increasing, making it hard to keep track.
• Split is a perfect base to explore Dalmatia! Split’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area of Dalmatia. From here, you can effortlessly reach the islands of Hvar , Brac , Vis, and Solta; spend a day exploring Trogir and the Roman ruins of Salona; get active in Omis; or visit Krka and Plitvice National Park .
• Great food! Dalmatian food is yummy, and many restaurants in Split offer these traditional dishes : a baby beef stew with gnocchi, called pasticada; stuffed bell peppers with mashed potatoes; meatballs in a tomato sauce; grilled oily fish with Swiss chard; and like.
• History! You don’t have to wait in long queues in front of museums to experience the history of Split. The old town is a 1,700-year-old living museum where people live and breathe every day.

What to do in Split Croatia?

Whether you travel solo, as a family, or as a couple, you won’t find yourself short of activities, attractions, and things to do in Split .

Below we shortlist some of the things to do in Split to give you a feel of what to expect.

• Relax on Riva! Split’s famed seafront promenade, Riva, is always abuzz with people; it’s lined with cafés and bars where locals spend hours over a coffee or a beer. Simply do like locals do, sip a coffee, and watch the world go by … for hours.
• Explore the old town! Just get lost in a maze of allies, cobbled streets, and passages in Split’s old town, and explore 1.700 years of history.
• Eat local!  The food and restaurants here are awesome! We’ve written a post on the best restaurants in Split, along with reviews on restaurants we’ve visited recently. Our fave restaurants are Villa Spiza , Uje Oil Bar , and tavern Nikola in nearby Stobrec.
• Have a coffee at Zbirac! Zbirac is the coolest day bar in Split. Located just above Bacvice beach, Zbirac is the locals’ favorite place to grab a drink. The bar is small, but it has a great terrace overlooking the beach and the sea. It’s protected from the north Bura wind, so the outdoor terrace is open all year.
• Play picigin at the Bacvice beach!  A sandy beach located a 10-minute walk from the old town, the Bacvice is, along with a seafront promenade, the most popular place in town. Picingin, a beach ball game invented here, is played in shallow water with players keeping a ball from touching the water.
• Go on a day trip! Among many day trips from Split , a day trip to Hvar stands out as the most popular.

What to see in Split?

You’ll never need to walk far to see Split’s top sights! The majority of them are located within the Split old town.

• Town gates!  Split old town is located within a 1.700-year-old Diocletian Palace. The Palace measures approximately 160 m by 190 m. Each of the four town’s walls has a gate (Golden Gate, Silver Gate, Bras Gate, and Iron Gate) located at the center of the wall, dividing the Palace into four quarters.
• A bell tower!  The bell tower of the church of St. Dominus is one of the symbols of Split. First built in the period from the 13th to the 16th century, the bell tower went under complete renovation in the 19th century. The views from the top are fantastic and worth a climb via a narrow staircase.
• Peristyle!  A narrow public square near the Cathedral, the Peristyle is the heart of the Palace and the place where all guided tours of Split begin or end. Ancient Roman columns made of red granite, an Egyptian sphinx, an entrance to the Palace’s basements, a Cathedral, and the Temple of Jupiter, can all be found on the Peristyle. It’s one of the main landmarks of Split, and it gets crowded at times.
• Varos! One of the oldest neighborhoods in Split, Varos is a charming place consisting mainly of traditional stone houses with wooden green shutters. It’s located on the south side of Marjan Hill, just northwest of Diocletian’s Palace. This neighborhood was established in the 17th century by peasants and fishermen. Today, it’s full of cozy apartments and room rentals.
• Peskerija and Pazar!  Fish market (Peskarija) and Split’s green market (Pazar) are the two best places to feel the pulse of the city and observe locals as they go about their daily business.

Restaurants in Split

You can’t go hungry in Split with so many great places to eat. It is a foodie’s dream destination. From small, family-run taverns showcasing delicious Dalmatian cuisine, and yummy street-food joints serving a quick fix like hearty burek, or cevapi for late-night food cravings, to harbor-side elaborate fine dining restaurants, Split restaurants offer something for everyone’s budget and style.

What is a typical food in Split?

Typical meals in Split include grilled meat, fish, or seafood with sides like Swiss chard, french fries, or grilled veggies, various stews like cuttlefish or beef stew, pasta dishes, and risottos, especially black risotto with squids and squid ink.

Cheap local fast food includes savory phyllo-dough pies (burek or pita) with various fillings like cheese, spinach, potatoes, or minced meat, as well as cevapi, finger-shaped minced meat grilled and served with pepper spread (ajvar), onions, and pita bread.

How much does it cost to eat out in Split Croatia?

Eating out in Split is still affordable, although the prices are on the constant rise. You can eat for as cheap as €3 to €6 ($3.30 – $6.60, £2.60-£5.20) in local fast food joints.

A handful of local taverns offer a choice of fresh, tasty, and well-cooked daily dishes for as little as €8 to €20 ($8.80 – $22, £6.90 – £23.20) per dish. Dishes can include grilled tuna, tuna stew, pork, beef or veal chops with Swiss chard, calamari stew, pasta with zucchini and prawns, and like. A meal in an upscale restaurant will set you at around €70 ($77, £60) per person.

Restaurants In Split

Below we list our three favorite Split restaurants, all three of them showcase delicious Dalmatian cuisine. For more info, check out our full post on the best restaurants in Split .

Villa Spiza!  Villa Spiza is a tiny little place serving traditional, fresh, and unpretentious food, using only locally sourced produce. There are just a couple of tables. The menu is simple, and it changes daily. Expect to pay €8 to €30 ($8.80 – $33, £6.90 – £26) per dish.

Contacts | Kružićeva 3 | t: +385 91 152 1249

Fetivi!  Fetivi is a small, family-run tavern with a friendly atmosphere and excellent food. Located close to the Matejuska, a small fishing harbor west of Split’s seafront promenade, Fetivi serves traditional Dalmatian food, like fried small oily fish, octopus, chickpeas stew, black risotto, various grilled dishes, etc. Expect to pay around €15 to €40 ($16.50 – $44, £13 – £34) per dish.

Contacts | a: Tomica Stine 4, Split | t: +385 21 355 152

Kadena! Locals’ favorite restaurant in Split, Kadena is an elegant place with a nice terrace, shaded, and fantastic views over the sea. The place is rather large, and it often accommodates large groups that can be noisy at times. However, the food is sublime, and the service is excellent. A bit pricey; expect to pay around €70 ($77, £60) per person for a 3-course meal with drinks.

Contacts | a: Ivana pl. Zajca 4, Split | m: +385 91 522 6685 | t: +385 21 389 400 | e: [email protected]

Accommodation in Split

If you plan to stay in Split for more than a day, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options to suit your needs. From historic boutique hotels and charming vacation rentals to trendy hostels and villas, the town caters to every traveler’s preferences. However, it’s worth noting that large full-service hotels and international chains are uncommon in this area, apart from Lav Meridien Split and Radisson Blu.

Regarding pricing, the average cost of a double room with breakfast in Split during the low season (April, May, November) is around €120 ($132, £103) per day. In the shoulder season (June, September, October), the price increases to approximately €180 ($198, £155), while in the high season (July, August), you can expect to pay an average of €250 ($275, £215) per day.

Of course, you may find lower prices if you’re willing to venture further from the city center or opt for a guest house instead of a hotel. Additionally, special deals due to low occupancy can sometimes offer even better rates. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an upscale boutique hotel in the old town of Split, the prices of a double room with breakfast can go up to €350 ($385, £300) or more per day during the high season.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, vacation rentals are a bit cheaper than hotels but range from €120 to €250 ($132 – $275, £103 – £215) per day for an apartment that accommodates 2 to 4 people during high season.

For the best experience in Split, we recommend staying in the lively neighborhoods of Diocletian’s Palace and Varos. Both areas provide convenient access to historical sites and immerse you in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The only drawback is parking, as these neighborhoods are mostly car-free.

Within the Diocletian Palace area, some of our favorite hotels include the Palace Judita Heritage Hotel , Piazza Heritage Hotel, and Cornaro Hotel . For a more local experience, Divota Apartments in the Veli Varos neighborhood are a great option.

Hostels Downtown and Dvor provide budget-friendly accommodation options in the town’s center.

Booking.com and Airbnb are the best websites for searching for accommodation in Split.

Check our list of recommended accommodations in Split! Or, if you are ready to book, check out Booking.com for the best rates!

Split Beaches

Split, the largest town on the Adriatic Sea, is a vibrant beach destination with diverse beaches. From the sandy shores of Bacvice to the rocky beauty of Kasjuni and Bene Beach, Split offers a range of options for beach enthusiasts. The most popular beaches in Split are Bacvice, Kasjuni, Bene, and Znjan.

Bacvice is a sandy beach within a 10-minute walk from the old town. Trstenik and Znjan beaches offer excellent facilities for families with children. Kasjuni Beach awaits visitors at the base of Marjan Hill with its pebbly shores, trendy beach bar, and chill music. Bene Beach offers direct access to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, complemented by the shade provided by numerous pine trees.

For further information, check out our comprehensive post on the best beaches in Split .

Bars, Clubs & Nightlife in Split

Split offers a lively nightlife scene, with bars and nightclubs scattered throughout the old town and various neighborhoods. A bar crawl usually starts in the old town, across bars in Dosut Street and Pjaca.

Popular spots include Ghetto Club , known for its art gallery and bohemian atmosphere, Shotgun Shooters Bar for cheap shots and drinks, and Charlie’s Backpackers Bar for a chance to meet fellow travelers.

Leopold’s Delicatessen Bar is a must-visit for craft beer lovers, while Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar and Bar Sistema offer a more relaxed ambiance. For a good drink with finger food, visit The Daltonist Craft Bar .

Fabrique Pub offers food, more than 50 local and international beer labels, and late-night DJ or live band parties. The Central and the Adriatic Social Club are great choices for clubbing, while Bacvice Club provides a low-key option.

Read more about Split’s bars, clubs, and nightlife here.

Popular events

Split, Croatia hosts a variety of fascinating events and festivals throughout the year. While some are more geared towards locals, there are several noteworthy ones that are worth attending if you happen to be in town.

The largest music festival in Croatia, Ultra Europe , takes place in Split every July, featuring renowned artists and a week of entertainment.

The Split Summer Festival , held from mid-July to mid-August, offers dance, music performances, and open-air theater at different venues.

Lastly, the Days of Diocletian in mid-August celebrates Split’s Roman heritage with costumed performers, exhibitions, and traditional food.

• Find here a wide selection of affordable accommodation!
• Get familiar with the city, learn about history, architecture, culture, food and people with this Split walking tour.
• With limited time in Split, this half-day speedboat tour from Split offers a great way to visit three islands and the famous Blue Lagoon.
• Experience an adrenaline-rush speedboat ride and visit Bisevo, Vis, Budikovac, Hvar, and Pakliniski islands on this full-day speedboat tour from Split.
• Spend an active morning or afternoon with this Cetina River Rafting with Cliff Jumping Tour.
• Explore nearby must-see sites such as Dubrovnik, Mostar, Peljesac Peninsula, and Makarska or venture off the beaten path by renting a car.
• Have a peace of mind with Safety Wing Travel Insurance.
• Surf worry-free with Airalo eSIM card!

Practical info on Split Croatia

Finally, if you need some practical info on public transport, parking in Split, or traveling to Split, you’ll find it in this post!

Split, the second-largest travel hub in Croatia after Zagreb, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. You can reach Split by plane, car, train, bus, or ferry. The airport is located 20 km northwest of downtown Split, with a shuttle service available. It is well connected to major European cities, making it easily accessible by air. Split is also well-connected by train and bus, with frequent services from Zagreb and other coastal towns. Additionally, Split serves as a major ferry port, offering connections to local islands and even Ancona in Italy. Traveling by car is convenient, with a motorway option available.

Split, the second-largest travel hub in Croatia after Zagreb, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. You can reach Split by plane, car, train, bus, or ferry.

The airport is located 20 km northwest of downtown Split, with a shuttle service available. It is well connected to major European cities, making it easily accessible by air. Split is also well-connected by train and bus, with frequent services from Zagreb and other coastal towns. Additionally, Split serves as a major ferry port, offering connections to local islands and even Ancona in Italy. Traveling by car is convenient, with a motorway option available.

Split is a small and walkable town, with major sights within 30-40 minutes from any location. Split public transport is well-organized. The bus network is extensive.

The historical part of Split, the Diocletian Palace, a seafront promenade, and most of the Varos are all car-free zones . Parking is possible on streets, parking lots, and garages.

Traveling to Split

Getting to Split is easy as it is the second-largest travel hub in Croatia, after Zagreb. You can reach Split by plane, car, train, bus, or ferry. The bus, train station, and ferry port in Split are located next to each other and are within a short walking distance from the Split old town. On the other hand, Split Airport (SPU) is situated 20 km northwest of downtown Split, near Trogir.

If you decide to travel by plane, a shuttle service operates between Split Airport and the city center. Shuttle buses depart 20 minutes after landing and take around 30 minutes to reach Split downtown, costing €8 ($8.80, £6.90) per person.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi which will cost you between €30 to €45 ($33 – $50, £26 – £39).

The cheapest option is to take a local bus no. 37 or no. 38, which both have a scheduled stop near the airport. A one-way ticket costs €4 ($4.40, £3.50).

Zadar Airport, located 150 km northwest of Split, is also a viable option for reaching Split, with some pretty cheap Ryanair flights available.

You can also reach Split by train from Zagreb, with one-way tickets costing approximately €15.10 ($16.60, £13) and return tickets €26.50 ($29, £23).

Trains run three times a day from June 15th until September 15th, while during the rest of the year, they run once a day. The train journey takes six hours.

Intercity buses connect Split with Zagreb and many coastal towns, running frequently throughout the day and year-round. It takes around five hours to reach Split from Zagreb, with one-way tickets costing around €20 to €25 ($22 – $27.50, £17 – £21.50), depending on a bus company and time of traveling. The best place to check bus timetables and book your ticket online is the Bookaway website.

Split is also a major ferry port for the central Dalmatian islands, and also with ferries connecting Split with Ancona in Italy. You can book ferry tickets online. Jadrolinija operates the line year-round, with prices starting from €50 ($55, £43) per adult and €64 ($70, £54) for a car.

Helpful tip on local ferries:  In high season, ferries get crowded. Arrive at least two hours prior to departure (if you travel by car).

If you’re traveling by car, getting to Split is easy as it is centrally located and easy to reach from many places in Croatia. If you’re coming from the direction of Rijeka or Zagreb, you can take motorway A6/A1, which takes around four hours to reach Split from either city. This motorway has tolls, and a trip from Zagreb to Split will cost you around €24 ($26, £21). If you’re looking to save on tolls, you can take an old D1 road, but keep in mind that it’s a single-carriageway road that goes through villages.

Budget tip: If you try to save on tolls but don’t mind driving through villages on a single-carriageway road, you can take an old E65 / D1 road. 

Split public transportation

Public transportation in Split is highly organized, with an extensive bus network. City buses operate within Split, connecting various neighborhoods and nearby towns like Trogir and Omis.

The Split Metropolitan area is divided into four zones, with Zone 1 covering the wider city center and other zones encompassing nearby towns such as Solin and Kastela.

Within Zone 1, buses run every half an hour from 5 am to midnight. Night lines are no longer operating, so taxis are the way to go if you require transportation after midnight.

Zone 2 and 3 buses have less frequent schedules, with some lines departing every hour or even less frequently. If you stay outside the town center, check the bus schedule and plan accordingly.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver, with varying prices based on the zone. A one-ride ticket costs €2 for Zone I, €2.50 for Zone II, €3 for Zone III (Airport), and €4 for Zone IV (Trogir, Omis). Alternatively, tickets can be bought at any kiosk for a 50% discount (Zone I: €1, Zone II: €1.25, Zone III: €1.5, Zone IV: €2).

Check the detailed Split bus network .

Taxis in Split

Taxis in Split are quite expensive, but they are a convenient option if you’re traveling with a group and willing to split the cost.

The starting fares for Cammeo and UberX are €1.05 ($1.10, £0.90) and €1.40 ($1.60, £1.20), respectively, while Radio Taxi Split charges €3 ($3.30, £2.60). Additionally, the cost per kilometer ranges from €0.80 / $0.90 / £0.70) (UberX), €1.05 / $1.10 / £0.90 (Cammeo), to €1.80 / $2 / £1.60 (Radio Taxi Split). Cammeo has a minimum fare of €2.40 ($2.60, £2.10), whereas UberX’s is €3.80 ($4.20, £3.30), and for Radio Taxi is €8 ($8.80, £6.90).

Alternatively, you can conveniently explore Split on foot. Split is actually a perfectly walkable town due to its car-free, compact old town, and relatively small size. No matter where you’re staying, you’ll never be more than 30-40 minutes walk away from the old town. This way, you can enjoy the charm of Split while saving money on transportation.

Parking in Split

When visiting Split by car, it’s important to note that the historical areas, including the Diocletian Palace, the seafront promenade, and most of Varos, are car-free zones. If you plan to visit Split by car, remember that parking within the old town is unavailable.

Parking is available on the streets, lots, and garages, but fees apply. For reference, check out the Split Parking Map below.

The closest parking lot to the old town is at the eastern end of the Riva promenade. This is the busiest and most expensive parking lot in Split, costing €4 ($4.40, £3.40) per hour in summer and €2 ($2.20, £1.70) per hour in winter. This parking option is still the most convenient for visiting the old town despite the cost.

Another convenient parking lot is located behind the main train/bus station. The rates here are €1.50 ($1.70, £1.30) per hour for the first hour and €2 ($2.20, £1.70) for each subsequent hour, or €23 ($25.30, £19.80) per day.

For a more budget-friendly option, street parking is the best option. For example, parking on Plinarska Street costs only €1 ($1.10, £0.9) per hour. Street parking is available in designated areas throughout the city, with four different zones and varying fees. The Split Parking app provides real-time information about parking in Split. Payment can be made through SMS or at self-operated parking machines.

Street parking is divided into different zones, and a parking app provides real-time information. Payment can be made through SMS or at self-operated parking machines.

There are additional parking lots in residential parts of Split .

Car rental in Split

Those who plan to rent a car while in Split will be happy to know that all major national and international car rental companies have their branch offices in Split. You’ll find them all at Split airport, but also many keep a second office in Split downtown. Whatever works better for you!

In Croatia, the car rental business is very seasonal, and rates increase dramatically from June through September.

We always use Rentalcars.com for car hire. They have good prices, work as consolidators with all major car rental companies, and generally are reliable.

On their site, you can easily compare the prices and availability of many car rental companies. Their filter options give you a chance to narrow your search down in accordance with your preferences: automatic or manual transmission, supplier, number of seats, etc.

If you prefer to rent a car directly with a local car rental company, below you’ll find info and contacts.

1 | Nova

Nova is a national car rental company with offices across Croatia.

Contacts (Main office)  | a: Obala Kneza Domagaoja 1, Split | t: + 385 21 775 388 | e: [email protected]

Working hours | Mon-Sun: 8 am-8 pm

Contacts (Airport Office) | t: + 385 21 203 308 | e: [email protected]

Working hours | Mon-Sun: 7 am-9 pm

2 | Oryx

Oryx is the largest Croatian car rental company with offices all around Croatia.

Contacts (Town office) | a: Sv. Petra Starog 1, Split | t: +385 21 318 800 | e: [email protected]

Working hours | Mon-Fri: 8 am-3 pm | Sat:, Sun 9 am-2 pm | Sun: upon request

Contacts (Airport office) | t: +385 21 895 164 | e: [email protected]

Working hours | Mon-Fri: 8 am-8 pm | Sat:, Sun 9 am-5 pm

3 | Enterprise

Enterprise is a global rent-a-car company with offices in all major Croatian towns.

Contacts (Town office) | a: Poljicka Cesta 26, Split | t: +385 99 382 4783 | e: [email protected]

Working hours | Mon-Sat: 8 am-8 pm | Sun: 9 am-12 pm

Contacts (Airport office) | t: +385 99 392 0362

Working hours | Mon-Sun: 7 am-11 pm

Shopping in Split

In Split, one will immediately notice the locals’ impeccable fashion sense and attractive appearance. Historically, Split has been a shopping haven for people from all corners of Dalmatia. In recent years, this reputation has only grown stronger with the opening of numerous shopping malls in and around the downtown area.

For a comprehensive shopping experience, two prominent shopping malls stand out: City Center One Split and the Mall of Split. City Center One Split, located at the eastern end of town on Vukovarska Street, is a mere 15-minute drive from the center. With over 150 shops, cafes, and restaurants, including popular brands like H&M, Lacoste, C&A, and Swarovski, City Center One Split offers something for everyone.

The old town of Split also boasts many shops, designer boutiques, and artisan stores. Marmontova Street, the main shopping street in Split, is a must-visit for any avid shopper.

For those seeking fresh produce, we highly recommend visiting Split’s green market (Pazar) and the fish market (Peskarija), both in the old town. Additionally, several supermarket chains, such as Lidl, Konzum, Spar, and Tommy, cater to general grocery shopping needs. While all are reliable options, Konzum stands out with slightly lower prices and faster checkout service. Spar Supermarket is in the old town, occupying the ground floor of the 13th-century Palace Papalic. The shopping experience here feels more like a visit to a museum than a typical supermarket.

Visiting a few concept stores in Split’s old town is a must for those interested in unique, locally-made designs. Break Time on Trogirska Street 8 offers exquisite handmade nautical bracelets. Jaman Art serves as both a gallery and a shop, showcasing and selling paintings, cellphone cases, sculptures, and prints by the talented academic painter Danijel Jaman. If you have a penchant for exceptional design, Nered Shop is the place to go for lovely, handmade souvenirs designed in Croatia. Designer store Krug is a treasure trove of authentic clothing and jewelry, all handcrafted in Croatia in limited series.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping scene of Split and discover the true essence of Croatian craftsmanship.

Money and ATM

As of January 1, 2023, the Croatian currency is the euro. The exchange rate is around US$1.10 for 1 euro, £0.86, AUD1.64, and CAD1.47. You can exchange money at many places in Split, including exchange offices, banks, and hotels.

ATM machines are also everywhere; near every bank, at prominent places in town, and at many hotels. ATM machines have an option for different languages, so they are easy to operate. Beware that some ATM machines have higher fees than others. We find that generally, ATM machines that belong to banks are cheaper than independent ones.

If you decide to pay with a credit card, you might be offered the possibility to be charged either in your own currency or in euros (local currency). You might intuitively opt to pay in your own currency. However, don’t do this! The banks use something called a dynamic currency exchange rate, and most of the time (read always) it’s less favorable than if you decide to pay in local currency.

I always hear people complain that the internet in Croatia is slow. I generally don’t need super-fast internet, 4 Mbps is fast enough for me.

Anyway, during the high season, with so many tourists around, the number of users increases so much that our infrastructure can’t really take it. So, at times, the internet gets really slow in summer. This doesn’t happen everywhere, and not on all networks, but there aren’t really rules. You just learn to live with it.

However, the closer you stay downtown, the better the internet you should get. Almost all accommodation comes with free WiFi internet, and you should expect a speed of at least 20 Mbps. Mobile now mostly runs on 5G, although 4G is still standard in some areas.

Many bars and restaurants offer free WiFi for their guests, but you need to ask for a pass. Towns also offer free WiFi hot spots, but this connection, unfortunately, doesn’t work most of the time.

More Info about Visiting Split, Croatia

• Learn all Split essentials with our Split Travel Guide .
• Plan your activities in Split with our detailed guide to things to do in Split .
• Looking for the unusual things to do in Split, Croatia ? Check our in-depth guide!
• If you plan to stay in Split, check a list of recommended accommodation in Split Croatia .
• Find out where to eat in Split with our post on best restaurants in Split .
• Detailed info on Split beaches you’ll find here.
• A list of Split bars and clubs .
• If you are staying in Split only for a day, here is our One Day in Split Itinerary .
• Planing a day trip from Split? Here is our list of the best day trips from Split, Croatia !
• Arriving to Split by plane? Here is our Split airport guide, including tips on how to get to Split center from the Split Airport .
• Want to visit Hvar from Split? Check out our ultimate guide on visiting Hvar from Split !
• Planing your Croatia trip, but not sure where to go first? Our Split or Hvar? and Split or Dubrovnik ? posts will help you decide!
• Visiting Dubrovnik from Split? Find here all details on how to get from Split to Dubrovnik !
• Interested in other Split restaurants? Read our reviews on Villa Spiza , Uje Oil Bar , Buffet Fife , and Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar .

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Destinations In Croatia / Split, Croatia / A complete travel guide to Split, Croatia

38 thoughts on “A complete travel guide to Split, Croatia”

Hello. My husband and I are traveling to Split next week. Do you recommend we purchase one of the Split City Cards on offer for 3 day passes to various places? If so, which one?

You can get from Hvar to Stari Grad by bus. As for direct Dubrovnik – Stari Grad ferry – I am not aware of any, they all go directly to Hvar Town.

Hi Frank – If we arrive from Split via ferry into Hvar town and wanted to spend some additional nights in StariGrad – what’s the easiest way to get to Stari Grad for Hvar town (without a car)? And also, are their direct Ferries from StariGrad to Dubrovnik?

Split is OK to stay for a week if you don’t mind staying in a big town. It has lots of things to do, good restaurants, beaches within walking distance, and it is a good base to do day trips to many nearby places. You can visit Hvar, Brac, Vis or Solta island. You can go to Krka National Park, or visit Trogir. You can also go wine tasting in the vicinity, or check some of the beautiful beaches along Omis and Makarska Riviera.

You can hire a private transfer, or simply board the shuttle bus. Both is simple!

How do you suggest 9 people get to downtown split from the airport on July 3? Thanks in advance!

First of all, thank you for all the information on your site. We first had the idea of visiting Croatia listening to an NPR report of about Dubrovnik. While we initially hoped to go there, we were slow to book and missed out on the chance. We do have the opportunity to go to fly into Split in July (I know, not the best time). Do you think that 7 days is too much time to stay there? We have beach lovers in our group as well as history buffs. With the different tours and close locations will we run into too much idle time? Thanks again for the information.

Hi Charanjeet, thanks for reading! 1) Yes, you can visit Plitvice from Split for a day (it will be a long day, but it is doable) 2) Hm, hard to say. Plitvice is more concentrated. All the sites are one next to another, while Krka is more spread out (if you want to see all the sites you will use the car between some of them). Plitvice has bigger falls. But both sites are nice. Krka will be less stress also because is much closer, and then you can have a more relaxed visit. Food is also better around Krka Waterfalls (Konoba Vinko in Konjevrate is highly recommended as well as a visit to Bibich or Sladic winery). Hope these few comments help you choose. 3) The most famed oyester and shellfish place in Croatia is Ston on Peljesac peninsula. Particularly restaurants in Mali Ston, but we like even more Ficovic in Hodilje. Wineries around Split include Putalj (the closest), but if you want to see the best ones, you need to go more south, like WInery Rizman and Terra Madre in Komarna (views are top), Saints Hills, Korta Katarina, Bura, or Milos on Peljesac (don’t miss a visit to Postup and Dingac wine growing hills). Some of the nicest sites you will see! And also previosuly mentioned Bibich and Sladic near Skradin.

Great blog Frank! I have learned so much about Croatia from your website, and it has been absolutely useful in planning my trip. Would you be so to guide me a bit further? (1) I’m thinking of a day trip from Split to Plitvice Lake. Do you think that’s unreasonable? We will have a rental car, so I’m thinking if we leave early AM, do they allow entry at a certain time. (2) Also, between Krka and Plitvice, if you were to choose, which would you? We just have one day and we can’t make up our mind. (3) Would you recommend any particular oyster restaurants (small town or fancy), any mature olive orchards and wineries? Thank you much

Usually, you can get by bus, and you should be able to check it on Getbybus. The problem is that this year is specific with Covid, and there are fewer buses at the moment, some lines are even completely ceased. However, by summer this should stabilize. Already now if you check dates in June, the Getbybus shows availability.

Hello, how to get to split from Plitvice? where to check the routes. can’t find on GetByBus.

Hi Frank, any thoughts on staying in Trogir vs Split? Niceness of Old Towns, cost of accommodations, parking? we figure we can do a day trip to whichever one we don’t stay in. We’re not that interested in the nightlife .

Thanks. Love your blog

Thanks, Rachel, so glad to hear that :)

Your site is SO useful. It’s our go-to and we are very grateful. Sadly we saw your villa too late but promise this will be our choice for Istria when we’re back in a few years. Rachel

Planning to do it this winter. Do you have any tips?

I am afraid that there isn’t any easy solution. You can either plan an overnight in Hvar, take a private boat transfer to Hvar, book a group tour to Hvar from Split, or take a car ferry from Split to Stari Grad (for this you will need a car as you need to travel from Stari Grad to Hvar).

Frank can you help we are going to Split in October and the only ferry we can find to Hvar is at 10 am from split and we only get 2 hours there is there a ferry service that gives us more time time. Thanks. Susan

Hi Frank, what is the best way to get from Split airport into town? Uber? Taxi? Something else? Thank you!

Your travel guides have been great for Porec & Split, I am going to Pula in September 2018 you wouldn’t happen to have anything on this region. We are also going to Zadar next May

Hi! I am visiting Split & Hvar in June. Everything is planned out except where to stay our last night.

On Saturday morning we have a 6:15 AM flight out of Split. Where would you recommend staying that is easy to get to the airport for probably 4AM?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello Frank, I have a question regarding non agency hotels, apartments, private apartments. I am planning our trip from July 15 to July 29th. Most of the agencies are 80% booked. Is it possible to find accommodations by simply inquiring at smaller places, like we do when we travel in the states? Thanks

My boyfriend, our little dog and I are going to Split in July. So far we’ve only booked out flights and are currently looking around for places to stay. We’d like to stay in central Split a couple nights and for the rest of the week we’re are looking for a place that has nice food and beaches. We’re not into partying, so someplace a bit more mellow would be preferred. We’ve looked at Makarska and Brac. Do you have any suggestions?

Many thanks :) Emily

Hi Gordon, beside writing this blog, and providing some info, we don’t offer other services. Have a nice time in Croatia with your gran daughter.

Hello Frank, I am a 84 year old retired male in good health. I will be traveling with my gran daughter in October for two weeks. We do not drink, except during dinner or lunch. Please explain what services you provide.

Dear Frank, I am a 71 year old Canadian widow in good health living in London, Canada. My income is limited to my gov’t pension of $1900CA per month and I have no savings. I am tired of our cold winters and am starting to contemplate a move to an affordable, warmer location. I came across Split, Croatia online as a place recommended for expats to retire to. I do not speak Croatian, but my mother tongue is Hungarian and I have studied Italian, French, and German. Since you have personal experience living there, can you please give me your honest opinion on whether this could be a good move for me? What do I need to be aware of in order to make this life-changing decision? Could I survive (or even live comfortably) on my frugal resources? Any advice or precautions you can offer would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Frank Me and my sisters will by fly to Croatia from London fir about 7 days. 3 days in Zagrenb, 1 day in Split and 3 dsys in Dubrovnik. We would like to visit Montenegro too.

We have searched lots of reviews and do not know where to start from. Any recommendations?

Hi Frank , Your website is so useful . Huge thanks . We are here in Split for a few days before hiring a boat on Saturday for a week & returning it to Split. We are then hiring a car for a few days , again returning to Split & wonder if you can offer any hints for further travel . We don’t necessarily need to stick to the coast, but it is is so beautiful are happy to . Travelling with husband & 2 kids 19 & 21 . All fairly fit . Happy to cycle, walk etc . As yet no accomadtion boooked & we’d favour getting away from the crowds & eating hood local food . Many thanks , Cheryl

Very useful guide thank you.

We will be visiting Split in early October for 7 days and plan to travel to Hvar and Brac possibly spending a night on each. We like nice restaurants and bars and generally exploring the sights. We would not have ny interest in spending time on the beach or in the water.

With regard to the islands particularly can we expect that most restaurants will still be open or might it be out of season for some?

If you prefer beach over the city, then definitely Brac.

We wish to enjoy beach more than city, is it better to stay in one of the islands like Brac or should I stick to Split city? We have 4-5 days. Thanks.

Frank – my wife and I are visiting Split in late June and want to visit Rovinj from Split. Can you recommend the best way to get to Rovinj from Split. Any recommendations re: car hire with driver? Are there ferries from Split to Venice? Any recommendations on boat/yacht rental companies for island hopping while we are in Split? Thanks.

Hi Annette, thanks for your comment. We recommend Viator. Let us know if we can help with anything else.

My husband and I will be in Split in September 2017. We would like to take a boat tour to visit a couple islands; maybe Vis, Hvar, Brac. Can you recommend a good company and a good itinerary please. Thank you.

Hi Marie-Claire, Sibenik is wonderful! It’s less known than Split, Zadar, or Dubrovnik, but in the last years its tourist offer and infrastructure is really developing. I think you’ll be happy in Sibenik. It’s less hectic than Split. You can visit Split easily from Sibenik for a day.

Hi Frank, I have been reading about an International Children’s Festival at Sibenik. Do you know anything about it or about the town of Sibenik itself? It is not very far from Split. Would Split be a nicer place to stay? I love all your advice and pictures on your website btw! M-C

Frank, my wife and I will be cruising from Dubrovnik to Split in early October. Once we get to Split we were thinking of staying a couple of days there and then driving up to Plitivice for a couple of days and then to Zagreb to fly home, could you recommend some stops along the way from Split to Zagreb?

We spent 2 months in Split and absolutely loved it. Our time there was the highlight of the last year of travelling. As you say, it is centrally located – we used it as a base to explore Dubrovnik, Mostar, even as far as Kotor. Lots of highlights in the immediate vicinity too (my personal favorite was the little town of Omiš). By the way, I took your recommendation of Konoba Matejuska and it is fabulous. We became regulars. I have to say that Buffet Fife was absolutely horrible the one time we went. Terrible. Maybe they had a bad day or something has changed. Excellent guide to Split. Frank (bbqboy)

I’ve always loved Split and prefer it to Dubrovnik, mainly because it isn’t as touristy and crazy. We spent 5 days in Split towards the end of June. We’d take the kids for a walk after dinner every evening, get an ice-cream and sit around the Peristyle (I had no idea it was called that!) listening to the accoustic musician playing every evening outside the Luxor. We used Split as our base to get to Brac- we did 2 day trips to Brac. Im glad tourists are starting to notice Split.

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23 Incredible Things to do in Split, Croatia in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: January 22, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Croatia? Make sure to add Split to your itinerary. Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, right after its capital, Zagreb. Split has many things to do, making it a popular tourist destination, both for its countless historic attractions and beautiful beaches. If you’re planning a trip to Split, you’ll find plenty of ideas on the must-see attractions in the city in this guide. From the best spots for panoramic views of the sea to the best hiking trails in the nearby forest park – here are all the best things to do in Split, Croatia!

In this travel guide, I am covering all the most exciting attractions worth your time in this beautiful Croatian city. With a central location on the coast and ferry access to many Croatian islands , Split is an excellent base for discovering the Dalmatian coast. Whether you want to go on a road trip or a boat cruise, you’ll find many options for day trips to national parks and other nearby towns.

Ancient landmarks and narrow cobblestone alleys are staples of Split. Your time in this city can be filled with history, adventure, and delicious food if you wish. 

And if you don’t, Split is still a great city thanks to its lovely beaches and easy access to secluded bays on the islands. Whether your idea of a fun vacation includes visiting as many landmarks as possible or swimming for hours, Split won’t disappoint. 

Best of Split Quick Guide

• Must See: Diocletian’s Palace, St. Dominus Cathedral, Seaside Promenade, Diocletian Aqueduct
• Where To Stay: We Collect Umbrellas , Hotel Luxe , Hotel Park
• Fun To Do: St. Dominus Tower, Museum of Illusions, Forest Park Marjan, Skywalk Poljud
• Day Trips: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park, Zadar, Trogir
• Must Try Foods: Istrian pasta, Black Risotto, Pasticada, Soparnik

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Split, Croatia

With a historic old town, a forest park in the middle of the city, and some of the best Game of Thrones tours in Croatia, Split has a lot to offer to anyone who visits. The city is a great destination for a holiday, whether you’re looking to spend most of your time exploring and touring museums or you just want to relax on a beach with a cocktail in hand. 

It has some of the richest history of all the Croatian cities on the Dalmatian coast, and it’s the most fun. Split is also very close to other beautiful cities , allowing for fun and easy day trips. 

1. Walk Around Old Town Split (Diocletian’s Palace)

One thing that makes Split such a special destination is that its old town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That’s because the old town of Split is situated within the walls of the Diocletian’s Palace, which was famously constructed as a residence for the Roman emperor. 

My favorite way of passing time in Split was roaming around the narrow cobblestone alleys. All the cobblestone alleys look alike, which was a nightmare for me because I have a poor sense of direction. But I enjoyed getting lost in the narrow passages, and I made it my mission to pet every stray cat that came across my path. 

Explore Diocletian’s palace and pay attention to all the different city gates. Enter every alley you see because you never know what awaits on the other end. You’ll stumble upon graffiti, tiny shops selling local goods, and fat stray cats. 

Practical Information : The Old Town of Split is accessible at any time of day or night, free of charge. But this walking tour is highly recommended.

2. See The View from St. Dominus Cathedral’s Bell Tower

The bell tower of St. Dominus Cathedral is the most prominent landmark in Split. It’s visible from everywhere in town, so it’s constantly inviting you to climb it and see what the view is like from the top. 

It’s the best view in Split, and you can stay at the top of the tower as much as you like. First, make sure you have a water bottle because the climb is long and tiring. Then go to the ticket office opposite the Cathedral, and buy tickets for the bell tower. 

You can then head up the stairs towards the church entrance and turn left to enter the bottom of the tower. There are many steep steps to climb, and the stairway is very narrow, but the effort pays off once you reach the top.  

Insider Tip: Purchase tickets just for the bell tower. They’re significantly cheaper than combo tickets for the tower and the church, and you’ll still be able to go inside the cathedral. 

Practical Information: St. Dominus Cathedral and Bell Tower are open from 8 AM until 7 PM. Tickets are available for 3€ – 15€. We accessed the bell tower and the cathedral, but not the crypt, with the cheapest tickets. 

3. Visit The Game of Thrones Museum

One of the reasons why Split has become internationally famous over the last few years is because it is prominently featured in Game of Thrones . Most scenes featured in the TV show were filmed inside the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, and you might recognize some places just from walking around the old town. 

The museum exhibit features replicas of dragons and costumes, and it’s a must for any die-hard Game of Thrones fans. But if you’re not that interested in the series, feel free to skip this museum. Read more: Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life

Practical Information: The Game of Thrones Museum is open from 10 AM until 5 PM. The tickets are 14.5€. 

4. Day Trip to Krka National Park 

Krka National Park is only an hour outside Split, and it’s one of the best national parks in the country. I enjoyed Plitvice Lakes more, but that’s because I went to Krka during a national holiday, and the crowds were way too big for my liking. 

Head to the Lozovac entrance to the park because it’s the closest one to Split. It’s a vast national park, and it will take you 5-6 hours to see everything. Bus rides in the park are included in the ticket price and can save you hours of walking down the roads. 

Skradinski Buk Waterfall is closest to the southern entrance (Lozovac). Roski Waterfall is near the northern entrance to the park. The Franciscan Monastery on a tiny island in the central area of the park is another highlight, and boat excursions to the monastery are available for an additional fee.  

Practical Information: Krka National Park is approximately an hour to 90 minutes away from Split by car and bus. Tickets for the park are 7-40€ depending on the season (most expensive from July to September).  You can book a day tour including boat cruise that will pick you up from your hotel in Old Town Split.

5. Stroll Down The Seaside Promenade

The seaside promenade in Split – or Splitska Riva as the locals call it – is an iconic part of the city. It is lined with cafes and restaurants on one side and a splendid view of the Adriatic Sea on the other. In the middle is a road and a pedestrian area with palm trees and benches inviting you to sit and take in the views. 

Most of the cafes and restaurants here are tourist traps and have the highest prices of all the locales in Split. But I didn’t mind being trapped for half an hour because the views are just that good. 

Practical Information: The seaside promenade is accessible 24/7 for free. 

6. Relax At Forest Park Marjan

Marjan Forest Park is a proper oasis in Split, situated on a peninsula that juts out into the sea. A visit to the park could count as a day trip because it’s such a vast space with plenty of things to do. Hiking trails, observation decks, and beaches are all found at this park, which offers sweeping panoramic views of Split’s historic center. 

An afternoon at the park is a great way to take a break from the relentless crowds inside Split’s old town. Hike to the Telegrin Peak observation deck at the top of the hill, for the best view of the rooftops in Diocletian’s Palace. And head downhill to the beaches at the foot of the hill to soak in the sun and swim in the Adriatic Sea. 

Practical Information: Marjan Forest Park is accessible by walking trails and a local bus. It’s accessible 24/7 for free.  

7. See The Exhibit at the Mestrovic Gallery

Ivan Mestrovic is the most famous sculptor and architect from Croatia and a local legend. His statues adorn the streets of Split, Zagreb, and Belgrade, but also those of Chicago, Baton Rouge, and Ontario. 

Mestrovic Gallery is a museum dedicated to the late artist. It’s situated at the foothills of Marjan Park, and it’s easily accessible by buses and walking paths from Split Old Town. 

The museum is on the grounds of the sculptor’s former residence, and even the house itself is a work of art. Inside it are countless thought-provoking statues, perfectly illustrating the famous artist’s immense talent. 

Practical Information : Mestrovic Gallery is open every day except Monday from 9 AM until 5 PM. The entrance fee is 12€. Or you can book this private half day tour of Split that includes entrance to the Mestrovic Gallery.

8. Head to Trogir For A Day 

A half-day trip to Trogir is perfect for a morning or an afternoon in Split. It’s only a 20-minute drive between the two towns, and you can drive either on the highway or the local roads. I recommend the local road because it follows the coast of the Adriatic Sea, and it’s a much more scenic drive. 

Trogir’s old town is situated entirely on a small island. It’s connected to mainland Croatia with a bridge, which you must cross to reach the old town. The historic old town is charming, with cobblestone alleys and countless ancient buildings. 

The town of Trogir even has a castle on the southwestern edge of its old town. It’s right next to a small beach, where you can go for a swim if the weather allows. Also, see the St. Dominic Monastery and Church, the Trogir City Museum, and St. Peter’s Church. 

Practical Information : Trogir is 20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus from Split.  This speedboat trip is an excellent day tour that includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trogir’s Old Town.

9. Day trip To Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes is lauded as the best national park in Croatia, and I tend to agree with that statement. Situated approximately two and a half hours from Split by car, this national park is by far the best destination for a fun day trip from Split. 

I visited Plitvice Lakes in autumn, and it was a wonderful experience. That’s the best time to visit to see the striking contrast between the red and orange treetops versus the turquoise lakes. And there aren’t too many people at the park, so you don’t have to buy tickets in advance or wait in long queues for the transport. 

Loads of hiking trails in the national park will allow you to discover its beauty. All visitors can also ride the free buses and boats throughout the park, which allows for a much quicker exploration. The boat trip was my favorite experience, second only to the sight of the Great Fall. 

Insider Tip: Tickets are cheaper if you buy them at the entrance. 

Practical Information: Plitvice Lakes National Park is open year-round. Entrance to the park is from 8 AM until 1 PM, and the tickets cost 10-40€, depending on the season. 

10. Visit The Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions was first opened in Zagreb, Croatia, and it didn’t take long for it to become a franchise with museums in Las Vegas and Singapore. It’s my favorite interactive museum, and I love visiting it in every city I travel to because there’s always something unique to that location. 

Head to this museum in Split to spend an hour or two exploring the different exhibits and having the time of your life. Pose for unique photographs, try to spot all the different illusions, and touch as many exhibits as you like. 

Whatever you do, don’t enter the anti-gravity room. It messes with your brain’s balance system and can quickly make you nauseous. That was my experience, at least, but my companions didn’t have as bad a time in that room. 

Practical Information: The Museum of Illusions is open every day from 10 AM until 4 PM. Tickets are 12€ per person.  Get your tickets in advance here.

11. Boat Trip to the Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Croatia, and a boat tour from Split is the perfect way to discover it. You’ll also see some of the nearby islands and discover a small slice of paradise known as the Adriatic Sea. 

This stunning natural landmark is set in a small bay on the island of Bisevo. The cave gets its name from the blue light, which appears inside at certain times of day in sunny weather. This cave is accessible only by guided tours. 

During the boat ride to the famous cave, you’ll also pass next to a few of the most famous islands in Croatia. Bra?, Hvar, and Vis are all along the way, and many guided tours even include a proper visit to the island of Vis. 

• Insider Tip: Swimming is not allowed in the Blue Cave. 
• Practical Information: Tours of the Blue Cave take place between April and October. The cost of tours from Split starts at 100€ and includes trips to nearby islands. 

Another popular boat tour is a Blue Lagoon Cruise. Set sail along the Dalmatian Coast to three different Croatian Islands. Swim or snorkel in the Blue Lagoon and visit the white sand beaches and beach bars of Laganini Beach Club at the historic town and harbor of Trogir.

12. Take a Break at Bacvice Beach

Bacvice Beach is just a 15-minute walk from the city center of Split. The sandy beach is known for its shallow waters, and it’s a perfect destination in Split for swimming and sunbathing. When I was there in March, some locals were swimming in the sea. I didn’t dare dip a toe in the water because it was icy cold, but apparently, it’s possible if you’re brave enough. 

The beach is also popular for playing sports. Volleyball and even badminton are fun here, as long as it’s not too windy. Come here to relax, enjoy the views, and inhale that wonderful scent of salty seaside air. 

Practical Information: Bacvice Beach is freely accessible 24/7. It’s a 15-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace. 

13. See The Diocletian Aqueduct

The Diocletian Aqueduct is another fascinating historic attraction in the city of Split. It was constructed at the same time as the palace, so between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. The aqueduct is 9 kilometers wide and 16.5 meters tall, and it is impressively well-preserved for such an ancient landmark. 

This is a proper Roman aqueduct. You’d expect to see something like this in Rome, Florence, or even Naples, but not in Split. And that’s what makes this such an impressive landmark and a must-see attraction while you’re in Split, especially for history buffs. 

Practical Information: The Roman Aqueduct is situated 20 minutes from central Split by local buses. Access to the area is free of charge. 

14. Discover The Local Cuisine

The food is one of my favorite things about trips to Split. It’s the best place in Croatia to discover Dalmatian cuisine, which is rich in seafood, olive oil, and pasta. If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, you will have the time of your life in Split. 

And even if you don’t, this city won’t disappoint. Many restaurants have menus with dishes traditional in northern Croatia, which are hearty and heavy on meat.

The dishes I recommend you try in Split are the risotto at Corto Maltese, any grilled fish at Konoba Marjan, and Istrian pasta in black truffle sauce at Restaurant Bajamonti. 

Practical Information: Many restaurants in Split are open all day, often from 8-10 AM until 12 AM. Reservations should be made in the peak season, but they’re not necessary in the off-season. 

15. Go Inside Jupiter’s Temple

Jupiter’s temple is a small temple from the 3rd century with a modern statue of Jupiter inside. In front of the temple is a statue of the sphynx, similar to the one that stands guard at the entrance to St. Dominus. Cathedral. 

The temple is small and hidden away in a narrow alley. It’s close to the narrowest alley in Split, named Let Me Pass, which is only 1.9 feet wide. Trying to pass through the alley is an adventure in its own right, even more so because it leads you to this historic landmark. 

You’ll know you’re at the right place if you see a tall green double door. There’s not much to do inside except see the statue and admire the incredibly detailed carvings on the curved ceiling. 

Practical Information: Jupiter’s Temple is accessible by anyone who purchases the purple ticket for the St. Dominus Cathedral and Bell Tower. 

16. Visit Zadar

Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Zadar is one of the most beautiful cities on the coast of Croatia. With medieval buildings, a stunning old town, and some of the most famous landmarks in the country, Zadar is well worth the two-hour road trip from Split. This Zadar sunset tour takes you to all the highlights, including the Land Gate, Square of Five Wells, Church of St. Donatus, and Saint Anastasia Cathedral, and watch a fantastic sunset as you listen to the sea pipe organ.

The city has a gorgeous old town with countless historic buildings, but the star of the show is the Church of St. Donatus. Dating back to the 9th century, the imposing cathedral dominates the entire square in front of it. Just a couple of minutes from the cathedral are the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, two of the most famous monuments in all of Croatia. 

Zadar also has some excellent museums. The Museum of Ancient Glass offers exhibits on the history and archeological findings, while the Archaeological Museum of Zadar has a detailed exhibit on the finds excavated from the site of St. Donatus church. 

Practical Information: Zadar is an hour and 45 minutes from Split by car, or two and a half hours by bus. 

17. Visit The Froggyland Museum

The Froggyland is the weirdest museum in Split, possibly even wider. To my huge disappointment, the museum was closed when I was last in Split, so I haven’t actually had the chance to see the exhibit live. But I’ve looked through all the photos, and it’s at the top of my list for my next trip to Split. 

At this museum, you can see 20+ dioramas of miniature frogs in all sorts of scenarios. Frogs as politicians, poker players, and even warriors. It is incredibly bizarre and utterly fascinating at the same time, and I highly recommend this museum to anyone who enjoys things that are out of the ordinary. 

Froggyland is particularly popular with children, and it’s one of the best things to do in Split if you’re traveling as a family. 

Practical Information: Froggyland Museum is open from 10 AM until 10 PM between April and November.  

18. Attend a Local Wine Tasting

The mild Mediterranean climate of Croatia has proved perfect for the production of olive oil and wine. Most of the country’s best wineries are in the northwest region of Istria and in the south, particularly in the area of the Peljesac peninsula. 

When you visit Split, attend a traditional wine tasting to sample fine Croatian wine in one of the countless restaurants and bars throughout the city. These often include 2-3 glasses of the most popular local wines and usually some snacks. You can also just walk into any store in Split and buy a bottle of delicious local wine.

But what I would recommend is a tour of the only winery in the city of Split. Divina Vina is a winery situated in a war bunker underneath an apartment building. Yes, you’ve read that correctly; it’s a weird location, but they offer tours and tastings, and you don’t even have to make a reservation. 

Practical Information : Divina Vina Winery doesn’t have set working hours. It’s best to contact the owner, Ivan at +385 (0)97 7762 407 to inquire about tastings and tours. 

19. Tour Diocletian’s Cellars

The underground of the Diocletian’s Palace is open for public tours, and it’s one of the top attractions in Split, especially on hot summer days. It’s much colder in the cellars than outside, making them a popular destination for people seeking shelter from the sun. 

Enter the Diocletian’s Palace through the gate on the lower end of the seaside promenade, and the entrance to the cellars will be to your left. This is the one attraction in Split that I wanted to do but didn’t because of the museum’s short working hours. But I swear, the next time I’m in Split, this is my first stop, and it helps that they’ve adjusted their operating hours since my last visit. 

The Palace Underground is incredibly well preserved and is partially responsible for the inscription of Split’s historic center on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Parts of the Cellars were inhabited during the Middle Ages, while other chambers housed tools for the production of olive oil and wine. 

Practical Information: Dioceltian’s Cellers are open every day from 9 AM until at least 6 PM. Between May and October, they’re open until 8 PM. The entrance fee is 7€.   

20. See the Fortresses in Šibenik

Situated just an hour outside Split, Šibenik is another splendid historic city on the Adriatic coast. It’s only 20 minutes from the Krka National Park, and you can easily visit both places during a day trip. 

This stunning town is known for its historic old town with no less than 2.851 steps, four spectacular fortresses, and easy access to Kornati National Park. I recommend visiting the Barone Fortress. It has a cafe/bar, and you can sit down and sip on some delicious Croatian wine while admiring the panoramic views of the sea and St. Nicholas Fortress. 

Don’t miss out on the Cathedral of St. James, either. The imposing church was completed in the early 16th century, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Practical Information : Šibenik is an hour’s drive from Split or a 90-minute bus ride.  Book this highly rated tour that includes Split & Trogir: Krka Waterfalls, Šibenik, and Primošten.

21. Skywalk Poljud

Head to the Poljud stadium in the northern area of Split. It’s far from the city center but easily accessible by local buses. 

Skywalk Poljud is an adrenaline tour that includes walking on the roof of the stadium, followed by a rope swing. You jump from underneath the roof and swing on a 70-meter rope. It’s the most exciting thing to do in Split and an absolute must for all travelers who are always looking forward to the next adrenaline rush. 

Practical Information: Skywalk Poljud tours last for 90 minutes and are priced at 70€. Inquire about available tours via email at [email protected] . 

22. See The Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall is situated in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, recognizable by its Gothic-style windows. It was originally constructed in the 15th century, and in 2021 the building was renovated. It now looks immaculate and hosts temporary art and photography exhibitions. 

Spot the building during a standard walking tour of Split and go inside if there’s an exhibition while you’re there. Local artists are often promoted at the Old City Hall, and it’s an opportunity to discover some unique and interesting Croatian art. 

Practical Information: The Old City Hall is situated at the People’s Square in the heart of the old town. It’s open from 9 AM until 9 PM. 

23. Croatian Maritime Museum

The Croatian Maritime Museum in Split was founded in 1925, and since then, it has housed an exhibit on various maritime art and relics. There’s also a life-sized ship inside the museum, making it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in this industry. 

The museum exhibit includes replicas of famous ships from history, as well as tools used in shipbuilding. Weapon systems traditionally used on warships are also part of the museum collection. 

Practical Information: The museum is open from 9 AM until 5-8 PM, depending on the season. Tickets are 3.50€. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Split In Croatia Worth Visiting? 

Yes, Split in Croatia is absolutely worth visiting. The historic town features many interesting attractions and landmarks, as well as easy beach access and beautiful nature. 

What Is Split Croatia Best Known For? 

Split in Croatia is best known for Diocletian’s Palace. Its old town is entirely situated within the palace walls, which was initially constructed as a summer residence for Roman emperor Diocletian. 

Why Is Split Croatia So Popular? 

Split is a popular destination because of its medieval historic attractions, excellent food, and beaches. The city’s popularity increased even more after it was prominently featured in the Game of Thrones TV show.

How Many Days Do I Need In Split? 

You need at least 2-3 days in Split. That’s enough time to see the top landmarks in the city and do a half-day trip to a nearby town. Plan a stay of 5-7 days if you want to explore multiple national parks and towns on the Dalmatian coast. 

Tips and Information For Visiting Split, Croatia

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Split is either spring or fall. The seaside town is very popular in the summer, which translates to huge crowds everywhere you go. Croatia is notoriously expensive in the summer season and the prices in restaurants and hotels triple in July and August. And don’t even get me started on the stench of sulfur on the promenade, which is only intensified in hot weather. 

We went in March and had a great time. There were still tourists in the city, including a massive cruise ship, but the crowds were still manageable. There were no queues for popular attractions and museums, and we easily found available tables at restaurants without any reservations. Oh, and we paid around 30 Euros per night for a cute apartment five minutes from the old town. 

Getting There

The airports in Split and Zadar have some of the best international connections in Croatia, so it’s likely you can land at one of them. Split Airport is just outside the city, and Zadar Airport is approximately three hours from central Split, with bus transfers. 

Ideally, you would land at Split Airport. A local bus can take you from the airport to the main bus station in town, and from there, you can take a taxi or a different bus to your hotel. 

Getting Around

Walking is the best way of getting around Split. All the famous landmarks and tourist attractions are located near the old town, so you can easily walk everywhere in no more than 15 minutes. Local buses can take you to parts of Split outside the city center, and rideshare scooters are available in multiple places throughout the city. 

Car rental is your best option for day trips because it’s much quicker than the bus. You’ll save a lot of time if you drive, but buses to the nearby towns and national parks exist and are available to travelers who don’t have access to a car in Split. 

How Much Time Do You Need For Split

We stayed in Split for three days, and it was just the right amount of time to see most of the things in town and do a quick day trip. I recommend a five-day stay if you want to see Plitvice and Krka national parks because those destinations take an entire day each. 

For sightseeing around the Split old town and a half-day trip to Trogir, three days is plenty of time. 

Where To Stay in Split, Croatia

The tourist attractions in Split are all in the historic center, so it’s best to look for hotels that are within walking distance of the old town. Bacvice is a great neighborhood to stay in because it’s very close to the old town but still much more quiet than the hotels within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. 

Personally, I would avoid accommodation within the palace walls. The crowds and noise will keep you up at night, plus they’re much pricier than hotels just five minutes from the center. Here are some of the best hotels in Split for all budgets: 

• We Collect Umbrellas is an affordable apartment. It’s where we stayed during our trip to Split, and we chose it for the excellent location just five minutes from the old town. 
• Hotel Luxe is a good mid-range hotel close to the city center with comfortable beds in clean and spacious rooms. 
• Hotel Park is a top-rated five-star hotel in Split. It’s close to the beach and a 15-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace. 

Whenever you travel to Split, you’ll have a good time. In the summer, you’ll be able to jump in the sea to cool down for the moment, but in the winter, you’ll get to experience the Christmas Market on the seaside promenade. Spring and fall offer the opportunity to discover all the landmarks and attractions without standing in queues and overpaying for accommodation. 

So, the only thing left to do is to book your plane tickets and hotel. Hopefully, this guide to the best things to do in Split helped you figure out what you want to experience in this stunning seaside city.

Plan Your Next Vacation To Croatia With These Resources:

• 14 Best Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 20 Best Islands in Croatia to Visit
• Beautiful Croatia – The 20 Best Things to See and Do

22 Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Can Visit in Real Life
• Best Places to Visit in Europe

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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35 Wonderful Things To Do in Split, Croatia

Table of Contents

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After living in Split for two months, I’ve become a semi-local. I can’t sing the national anthem but I CAN tell you what to do in Split whether you’re visiting for a first, second or third time. Split is the second-biggest city in Croatia but the centre feels teeny-tiny. Surrounding the famous Diocletian Palace, the atmospheric maze of alleyways is full of delights. The bustling Riva walkway along the waterfront is the place to be for people-watching and socialising, especially during the summer months. Then, there are wonderful day trips from Split . The islands, mountains and hikes make it an unforgettable destination.

SPLIT ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight / car / bus ( Flixbus ) Getting around: foot / bus / taxi Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator

Read next: the ultimate itinerary for 7 days in Croatia

How to get to Split

By air: Split airport connects other European cities with frequent flights between April and October. From the UK, you can only fly directly between these months. During low season, fly into Zagreb and get a connecting flight or catch the Flixbus (5 hours / 2.5 hours away respectively). I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. Search for flights to Split . From the airport to the city, catch a bus, taxi or pre-book your airport transfe r . By bus: Split is well connected to other Croatian cities such as Dubrovnik (5 hours), Zagreb (5 hours) and Zadar (2.5 hours) as well as cities in Bosnia & Herzegovina like Mostar and Sarajevo. Search and book Flixbuses here . By car: It’s easy to travel Croatia by car and you can easily cross borders to Slovenia , Hungary , Serbia and Bosnia. Find a rental with Rentalcars.com .

The city centre is tiny; it’s easy to explore the main Split attractions on foot . A car is useful for taking day trips from Split but beware there’s very little parking in the city. It’s best to just hire one when you need it. When you need a taxi , there’s Uber and Bolt to choose from. There are local buses (although the routes don’t show on Google maps) and a free bus between the city and Split mall.

Fun & memorable things to do in Split, Croatia

Now we’ve run through the basics, let’s get stuck into the activities in Split that’ll keep you busy and make lasting memories. At first glance, there’s not much to do in the small, historic city centre. But the nature, islands and day trips could keep you busy for weeks. It’s the perfect launching point for Dalmatia’s epic coastline. Here’s what not to miss…

1. Take a free walking tour

You’ll rarely find a city guide on my website not mentioning free walking tours! I love them. Free Tours operate around the world but they’re especially popular in Europe . The Split sightseeing tours last just over an hour and depart daily at 1.30pm from the Split sign at the end of the Riva . You’ll get up to speed on Dalmatian history and learn fun stories and anecdotes from your guide. If you enjoy the tour, tip €5-10.

2. Marvel at the Diocletian’s Palace

The most famous attraction in Split is, of course, the UNESCO Diocletian Palace . Boasting some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in the world, it was built for the Emperor’s retirement. And what a retirement home it is! Built just 6km from the former Roman capital in Dalmatia, the southern part of the complex was designed as the Emperor’s living quarters while the north was for his military and servants. The tower and Peristyle sit at the centre, while gates and towers (some of which can be seen today) flank the fortress. Entry price: it’s free to walk around but certain attractions have entry fees. I’ll cover these as we go.

3. Climb the Bell Tower

If you love scenic views, this is easily one of the best things to do in Split. The Bell Tower climb was my favourite attraction in the palace complex, costing just 40 kuna to climb. I was blown away by the views over the city, Marjan Park and the coast. In a historical lowrise city, it’s the only vantage point of its kind.

4. Domnius Cathedral

Also known as Sveti Dujam, the Cathedral within the palace quarters costs 30 kuna to enter. It’s the tomb of St Domnius who was executed by Emperor Diocletian along with seven other Christians. Centuries later when Croatia converted to Catholicism, St Domnius became a martyr. The Cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, while the Bell Tower is dedicated to St Domnius.

5. Visit the treasury

The Treasury is a two-story museum located behind the Diocletian Palace ticket counter. Entry costs 30 kuna and there are numerous relics to see including excavated Roman tiles and a lifelike gold bust of the martyr, St Dominus.

6. The Baptistery (Temple of Jupiter)

For historians, one of the most rewarding places to visit in Split is this small-yet-stunning temple. Hidden down an alleyway, it has a rich history spanning almost 2,000 years. Built opposite the Emperor’s mausoleum, its position signifies a connection to Jupiter, Roman god of the sky.  The black granite sphinx at the entrance was brought to Croatia by the Romans from Egypt. Christians at a later date believed him to be Pagan and cut off his head! The Temple of Jupiter costs 20 kuna to enter. Not bad for a trip to 300 AD!

Ticket prices for Diocletian’s Palace attractions

• Split Cathedral – 30 kuna
• Bell Tower – 40 kuna
• Treasury – 30 kuna
• Baptistery (Temple of Jupiter) – 20 kuna
• Crypt – 20 kuna
• Blue ticket (Cathedral, Crypt, Baptistery) – 50 kuna
• Red ticket (Cathedral, Crypt, Baptistery, Treasury) – 60 kuna
• Green package (Cathedral, Treasury, Bell Tower) – 70 kuna
• Green package (all 5 sites) – 80 kuna.

After paying for the green package myself, I’d recommend just paying for the Bell Tower climb unless you’re really into history and artefacts. There were a few interesting bits in the Treasury but the Cathedral was like many I’ve seen before in Europe (and usually they’re free).

7. Wander charming Old Town streets

There are few city centres as charming as Split. Don’t expect skyscrapers, chains or shopping malls in the tight maze of alleyways that surround the Diocletian’s Palace!

Read next: complete guide to Split Old Town Places to see in Split Old Town:

• Golden Gate – the north gate built in 305 AD was only for use by the Emperor and his family. He’d be horrified to see tourists passing through in their thousands now!
• Republic Square – at the far end of the Riva, this impressive square is often likened to a small St. Mark’s (Venice). Join the locals sipping coffee in the shaded archways.
• People’s Square – this popular plaza in the heart of the palace quarters is a great place to dine surrounded by ancient architecture. As you’d expect, it gets busy.
• Nadalina Chocolate Shop – with every flavour of gourmet chocolate imaginable, including Croatian lavender, this is a fantastic place to buy gifts… including for yourself!

8. Sample local produce at the Green Market

This vibey morning market has two purposes: a farmers market selling fresh produce, and a tourist market selling traditional Croatian products. Browse local brandy, liqueur, cheese, honey, meats and lavender-scented products. The vendors are generous when letting you try. I had at least four shots of very sweet alcohol without feeling pressure to buy, although I did buy some cheese (I can never resist cheese!). Make sure to visit in the morning. By lunch, the vendors are packing up.

9. Visit Split Fish Market – early!

A trip to the morning fish market is an unusual thing to do in Split that I’d recommend as a sensory adventure and a rare chance to glimpse local life. From shrimp to sea bass, you can get it here. Better yet, it’s ridiculously affordable!

If your Airbnb has a barbeque, buy some fresh fish and sizzle up a feast. Just ask the vendors what’s grill-friendly and ensure it’s gutted (they’ll do this for a fee of approx. 20 kuna). Opening times: early morning until 11am.

10. Hike to Marjan Hill for stunning views

While living in Split for 2 months, my friends and I created a small hiking group that met at 8.30am each morning to hike Marjan Hill. It was a wonderful way to wake up and get some fresh air. You should certainly summit the peak at least once. Not only is this one of the best things to do in Split, but it’s an energetic climb encompassing 314 stairs. What better excuse to eat hearty Croatian food when you get back down? (I have plenty of restaurant suggestions coming up). Route for hiking Marjan Hill (click to read my full guide):

• Set your starting point as Restoran Vidilica (which requires a flight of stairs to reach from town)
• Take the slope upwards passing Sveti Nikola church
• Follow Marangunićevo šetalište as it winds upwards
• Embark on the 314 stairs leading to Vrh Telegrin , a paved lookout with a large cross statue and a flag pole. The views are spectacular!
• The walk should take 20 minutes from Restoran Vidilica. Set aside 1.5 hours for the return trip from the city centre and back.

Reward yourself with coffee at Restoran Vidilica!

Retrace your steps and arrive back at your starting point. From this scenic viewpoint, you can grab a coffee at Restoran Vidilica and while away time on a sunny day. The food here is expensive and not the best so I would advise eating elsewhere and just enjoying coffee (13-17 kuna depending what you order).

11. Hike around Park Suma Marjan peninsula (half day)

Marjan Hill undoubtedly boasts the best views of city from its elevated position. But if it’s coastal views you want (rather than a workout), you can’t beat a walk around Park Šuma Marjan. The full circular walk takes a few hours depending how often you stop. Pack a picnic and make a half-day of it! Directions for this walk:

• Enter at Spinutska Vrata and follow the pedestrian walkway with bikes to hire and free drinking fountains
• Follow the path around the headland stopping at Kupalište Bene beach and Kasjuni Beach (there’s a restaurant at both locations if you get hungry, though the latter is closed in off season)
• Leaving the park, you’ll walk the final 15 minutes through Varoš neighbourhood, a residential area home to the Archaeological Museum and Ivan Meštrović Gallery.
• Arrive back in the city.

12. Sunset walks or drinks on the Riva

Alongside the Diocletian’s Palace is the Riva , an oceanfront walkway lined with palm trees. Cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating are open from morning to night, getting especially popular around 5pm when guests enjoy golden hour with a beverage. If you’re short of things to do in Split in the late afternoon/early evening, grab a beer and people-watch! For coffee and bakery goods, park yourself at Bobis . For a gourmet meal (without overly outrageous prices), Brasserie on 7 serves French/Croatian-inspired food with fresh seafood, brunch and patisserie goods.

13. Enjoy the coffee scene

Split doesn’t have a huge speciality coffee scene, at least compared to the endless coffee shops in Zagreb . Luckily, the Splitians love their coffee so you’ll find plenty of local cafes serving simple coffee with milk for 10 kuna. If it’s speciality coffee you’re after, these are the best cafes to relax after you’ve ticked off the main Split attractions:

• D16 Coffee – down an alleyway near the Palace, this coffee shop has all your usual beverages and even iced coffee which is hard to come by in Croatia. It’s a little dark so I prefer…
• KaKantun – this is an ambient coffee and gin bar with natural light and colourful wall murals. It’s hard to find down an alley but worth it!
• The Daltonist – this is a cool cocktail bar with a mellow feel during the day. They serve excellent flat whites courtesy of 4coffee .
• Kava2 – although it’s slightly outside the old town, it’s worth a visit for the coffee, outdoor seating and freshly-baked peanut cream croissants. They’re to die for!

Read next: the best cafes in Split, Croatia

14. Try the (many) Split restaurants

I’d be lying if I said Split was my favourite foodie city in the world. The restaurant prices in the city centre would be at home in London meaning it’s other tourists you’ll be rubbing shoulders with rather than the locals. Still, there’s plenty of decent food around. Just be aware you’ll pay tourist prices unless you travel further out.

Great eats in Split:

• Villa Spiza – this is one of the few ‘local style’ restaurants in the city centre. I ate a gigantic bowl of clam and shrimp pasta followed by tiramisu for 180 kuna. Everything was fresh and delicious.
• Corto Maltese Freestyle Food – visit for Croatian and Italian food with great cocktails.
• Pizzeria Bokamorra – one of the best woodfire pizzas I’ve eaten! The ‘cheezus’ with gorgonzola is fantastic, as is the focaccia with a huge burrata ball on top. Don’t miss the dessert pizzas: the raspberry, white chocolate and pistachio is divine.

Read next: 18 Split restaurants you need to visit

Budget eats in Split:

• Gostionica Apollo 11 – slightly out of town, this is THE place for a hearty feast with local prices (45 kuna for lunch with bread!). No frills, just great food.
• Kogo – this buffet-style restaurant is primarily for takeaway food but there are a few seats where you can perch and enjoy typical Croatian food priced by weight. Octopus stew cost me just 35 kuna including bread… You can’t eat much cheaper than this!
• Kantun Paulina – this takeaway stand serves super cheap Balkan burgers comprising cevapi (ground meat sausages), avjar (roasted red pepper paste), kajmak (clotted cheese) and onion. They’re delicious and only 45 kuna!

15. Take a food tour

What is Croatian food, you might ask? With many of the restaurants serving pasta and pizza, it can be tricky to immerse yourself in the local cuisine during a short trip. In that case, a food tour is a fantastic thing to do in Split. When I don’t have long in a city, I love to take these to learn from the local guides. For solo travellers in Croatia , they double up as a way to sample various delicacies without getting too full. Take a 3-hour Historical & Gastro Treasures Tour including a market visit .

16. Wine tasting

Wine tasting is a fantastic Split activity for gastronomy lovers (and people who just like getting drunk on holiday, you know I’m right!). The closest and most popular place to visit in Split is Putalj . Tours cost €100 including pick-up and tastings with olive oil, bread, cheese and prosciutto. For a cheaper option close to the city centre, Zinfandel Food and Wine Bar do tastings for 220 kuna or 120 for a 3-glass tasting with snacks. MoNIKa’s Wine Bar is another highly-rated place to drink Croatian wine, while Vinoteka Terra   is an excellent wine shop near Bacvice Beach. Keep in mind there are wine tasting opportunities that you can tie in with other Split attractions, for example trips to the islands , many of which are renowned for wine production. The wineries in Lumbarda on Korčula are spectacular!

17. Experience the nightlife

The nightlife in Croatia is largely dependent on the time of year. Many bars and clubs are closed from October to April but more than compensate during the summer months. In peak season, the Split nightlife is wild! Best bars in Split:

• Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar – for a sophisticated evening in a cosy bar/library with shelves of books and occasional live music, this historic bar is a winner.
• Harats – you always know what you’re getting with an Irish pub, right? Come peak or off-peak, weekend or weeknight, you can guarantee Harats won’t be empty.
• Charlie’s – this small bar is an infamous party hotspot, packed with backpackers in the summer. Expect cheap drinks, fun music, local spirits and shots from 10 kuna.
• The Daltonist – this is my favourite bar: vibey on weekends but never rowdy or too crowded, plus you can get excellent cocktails for 50 kuna. The staff are lovely, too. Happy hour is 6-8pm.
• Leopold’s Delicatessen Bar – if you love craft beer, get here pronto!

18. Take a sunset coastal walk

With the sun rising in the east and setting in the west, Split is a better place for watching sunrise than sunset. If 6am isn’t your favourite time of day, you need to escape the city and head around the coast. After a day of sightseeing in Split, walk from Sustipan park along the walkway beside the ocean. It’s paved with plenty of benches. Find the jutting peninsular beside Plaža Kaštelet : this is my favourite place to watch sunset. Bring some wine and a dinner picnic – sorted! If you’re visiting Kasjuni and Ježinac beaches, combine this into the same day. This sunset point is right beside Ježinac.

19. Lounge on Bacvice Beach – stay for sunset!

Beach lovers wondering what to do in Split needn’t look far. The closest beach is Bacvice, a 10-minute walk from the Riva. It’s not the best beach because it gets crowded and pretty dirty especially in the summer months. However, it’s a nice place to watch sunset as there are plenty of bars and restaurants in this area. Tortuga Grill & Pub has floor-to-ceiling windows, coastal views and delicious meaty dishes best washed down with cocktails.

20. More Split beaches

Split may not have the best beaches in the world but there are a few options. I mentioned the largest beach, Bacvice, already so here are a few more…

• Ježinac Beach – this small but pretty beach is a 25-minute walk from the Riva, the opposite direction to Bacvice. There’s ample parking and in the summer months, a few refreshment stalls.
• Kasjuni Beach – walk a further 20 minutes from Ježinac (away from the city) to reach this majestic peninsular beach lined with palm trees. If you get hungry, there’s a restaurant open in peak season.

Spend half a day walking the coast and visiting both beaches. Walk, catch bus number 12 or call a taxi to start your day at Kasjuni then walk back, stopping at Ježinac.

21. Visit Split museums and galleries

Despite its reputation as a summer holiday destination, there’s culture should you want it. The Split museums and galleries double up as a rare rainy day activity should you be cursed with bad weather. A few options include:

• Split Ethnographic Museum – this museum uses costumes and crafts to tell stories about people who have lived in Dalmatia for millennia. Entry is 20 kuna; closed Sundays.
• Split City Museum – this small museum explains the city’s history through artefacts, weaponry, painting and sculptures. Entry is 20 kuna.
• Museum of Fine Art – located inside a former hospital, this highly-regarded gallery in the city centre displays Croatian and European art dating from the 14th century to the present day. Entry is 40-60 kuna; closed Mondays.
• Archaeological Museum in Split – learn about Dalmatia inside a spectacular building with equally stunning grounds, 10 minutes from the city centre. Entry is 20 kuna; closed Sundays.

22. Croatian National Theatre

Built in 1893, the Croatian National Theatre is one of the oldest theatres in Dalmatia. The sunny yellow building has been restored to look as good as new, perched on Trg Gaje Bulata Square. Tickets cost around 50 kuna so, for an unusual thing to do in Split, browse upcoming performances . The summer festival (Splitsko ljeto) is a great time to catch cultural shows.

23. Relax at coastal cafes

Earlier I mentioned speciality coffee shops. In my experience, these are located in smaller, city centre buildings. For relaxing, open-air cafes with fantastic views, leave the flat whites behind and rub shoulders with the locals. One of my favourite outdoor cafes with sunset views and a huge selection of cakes is Kavana Procaffe . On the other side of the peninsula, Kavana Zona has lovely harbour views with inside and outside seating, while Jadran Beach Bar is right beside the ocean (but best avoided when it’s windy because it’s totally exposed). If you’re done with Split sightseeing, order a coffee, beer or cocktail and while away the hours. The locals are too ‘pomalo’ to rush you.

24. Visit Game Of Thrones locations

The Game of Thrones Museum in the Diocletian’s Palace is the main attraction in Split for super fans, full of props and outfits used during filming. Still, Dubrovnik steals the show when it comes to GOT tourism. Buy your ticket for €11 .

25. Try sea kayaking

A popular summer activity in Split is sea kayaking on the west of the peninsular towards Marjan Park. What could be more memorable than bobbing on the Adriatic Sea with a backdrop of the Diocletian’s Palace? Browse kayaking tours including sunset tours and those combining snorkelling.

26. Rafting on the Cetina

This is one of the more adventurous things to do in Split, ideal for those craving adrenaline amidst stunning surroundings. Three-hour tours generally incorporate a mix of grades, meaning you’ll have a good mix of excitement and relaxation. Rafting is suitable for beginners and you’ll be well cared for with a guide and all safety equipment provided. Browse river rafting tours here .

What to do around Split

Once you’ve ticked off the main activities in Split city centre, leave time for a few day trips. Do your research because there are plenty of nearby attractions that, depending on your interests, you wouldn’t want to miss. If you love island-hopping, Croatia is a wonderland. For waterfalls and national parks, you have a few popular options. Throw in hiking and wine tasting and there’s very little you can’t do in Split (apart from visit a big city of more than 1 million people of course!).

Read next: 22 best Split day trips

27. Klis Fortress (20-minute drive)

This striking medieval fortress helped keep the Ottomans at bay. Although they captured parts of Croatia, Split was not one of them. It’s also a major Split attraction for GOT fans: Klis Fortress was used as Meereen during filming! Entry is 70 kuna and you need 1-2 hours looking around. Get there by… Bus: This takes 20 minutes and costs 22 kuna return. The schedule is VERY difficult to figure out so your best bet is visiting the kiosk at HNK Bus Stop to ask when the next bus departs. Ask them to write down the return times, too. By car: Set your satnav to Trg Mejdan 10, 21231, Klis, Croatia. By Uber: This should cost 100 kuna each way. You may wait a while for a driver to commit to travel the distance, and you can’t guarantee there will be any cars waiting around in Klis. If you find yourself stuck after visiting the fortress, there’s always the bus home. By tour: Visit by open top bus , take a tour including olive oil tasting or visit as part of a Game of Thrones excursion .

28. Visit Plitvice Lakes (full day trip)

It’s little wonder Plitvice National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Croatia. Crystal-clear water cascades down karst rocks, plunging into pools all shades of emerald green and brilliant blue. Although you can’t swim in the pools, you can spend a day meandering along boardwalks and admiring top-tier Croatian scenery. Plitvice is beautiful but busy in summer so it’s best to go in shoulder season (spring or autumn) if possible. Winter can be snowy and enchanting but, depending on the conditions, large sections of the park may be closed at short notice. Getting to Plitvice National Park: Although I took a Plitvice day trip from Zagreb as it’s closer, it’s easy to visit from Split providing you don’t mind a long day out. Buses take 3.5 hours (the first one at 7am in peak season), starting from €22 each way. The other option is a small group tour from €60 . For a closer national park that’s just as stunning…

29. Krka National Park (full day trip)

If you’re after exciting things to do near Split, take a trip to Krka National Park rather. Just an hour away by car, bus or organised day trip , this 109km national park is home to 7 waterfalls and a 15th-century monastery on an island. Skradinski Buk is the easiest set of falls to reach, an hour’s walk or short boat ride (peak season only) from Skradin town. Entrance to the park costs between 30 and 200 kuna depending on the season.

Read next: how to take a Krka Waterfalls day trip from Split

Getting to Krka: the bus (bookable on Flixbus ) departs from the main bus station beside the ferry terminal and takes 1 hour 15 minutes to reach Skradin. From here, board the ferry into the park in peak season. From November-March, take a flat, 1-hour walk beside the stunning lakes. Otherwise, drive to Krka or take an organised day tour with GetYourGuide .

30. Visit Trogir (30-minute drive)

The charming town of Trogir is on a tiny island, connected to the mainland and Čiovo island by bridge. It’s one of the most popular places to visit near Split, easily accessed by car or bus. Trogir is an architect’s dream with baroque, Romanesque and Renaissance buildings. Tour the Cathedral, Castle and monastery before strolling the promenade and settling on a restaurant for lunch. Try black squid ink risotto, a Croatian delicacy named crni rizot .

Read next: things to do in Trogir during a day trip from Split

Getting to Trogir : Drive or catch a bus from Split bus station for 30 kuna (30-minute ride).

Island excursions (full-day trips from Split)

Once you’re done with the Split tourist attractions, hop straight on a ferry! The islands were my favourite thing about living in Croatia. Hvar, Brač, Vis and Korčula are all between 1 hour and 2.5 hours from the harbour by ferry or fast boat.

For a few final fun things to do near Split, some of my personal highlights are…

31. Beach bask in Bol, Bra č

If you can’t justify the cost of island-hopping day tours, Brač is the closest island to Split and one of the loveliest. It’s cheap to reach with several points of interest around the island. Supetar (where the ferry arrives) is pleasant but a better option is to visit Bol, home to the spectacular Golden Horn Beach . Drive, take a taxi or a local bus from Supetar to Bol. Getting there: the 1-hour ferry costs 28-33 kuna each way depending on the season, arriving in Supetar. Another option is the boat arriving in Milna which is a stunning part of Brač.

32. Climb the fortress on Hvar

The second-closest island to Split is Hvar. With a reputation for hosting celebrity guests, it has high-end accommodation as well as clubs that earn its status as a party hotspot in summer. If none of this is your scene, fear not. Hvar Town is a stunning settlement, overlooked by Spanjola Fortress . For an affordable day, wander the town, eat local food at Grande Luna , soak up panoramic views from the fortress, and finally relax on the beach.

Getting there: the ferry takes 2 hours and tickets start from 40 kuna, arriving in Stari Gard where you can hop on a local bus to Hvar town. The fast boat takes around 1 hour and costs 110 kuna each way, arriving in Hvar town.

33. Spotting Mama Mia! filming locations on Vis

The petite island of Vis is easily explored during a day or across several. Visitors usually arrive in Vis Town and head over to the equally pretty town of Komiža from where several beautiful beaches can be reached on foot. Spotting Mama Mia! filming locations is a popular activity on Vis. Apparently, it was cheaper than filming in Greece and you can see why the producers chose the island: it’s spectacular! Getting there: Split to Vis ferries and fast boats start from 50 kuna.

34. Marvel at the Blue Grotto

Although Vis is worth a visit in its own right, many travellers visit simply to see the jaw-dropping Blue Grotto . On tiny Biševo island, it’s easily visited as part of a boat tour from Komiža, Vis. To come directly from Split, book a Blue Cave boat tour .

34. Wine tasting on Korčula

If you’re still reading, CONGRATS because Korčula is one of my favourite places in Croatia. The spectacular island boasts boat tours, diving, beaches and well-preserved architecture in charming Korčula Town. Yet nothing competes with the wine tasting in Lumbarda! Just 15 minutes by car, taxi, bus or bicycle from Korčula Town, the region of Lumbarda is known for producing Grk wine, unique to the island. It’s one of a few female grapes in the world, pollinated by Plavac Mali grapes planted nearby. Sipping delicious Grk wine with a platter of cheese at Popić Winery remains one of my favourite experiences in Croatia! Visit independently or browse wine tours in Korcula . Getting there: as it’s one of the further away islands, it’s best to take the fast boat which takes 2.5 hours and costs 150 kuna each way. There’s a cheaper Jadrolinija ferry but it takes closer to 4 hours.

Where to stay in Split

• Hostel: between the city and Bacvice Beach, En Route Hostel has bunks with curtains, power outlets and reading lights from €20. It’s a great place to meet other travellers with a clean, modern vibe. Another option is Backpackers Fairytale which has a cosy vibe that’ll make you feel at home.
• Budget hotel – stay at B&B Central Palace for comfy rooms in a central location. Check availability from €65 .
• Hotel: Slavika is one of the oldest hotels in Split, right inside the Diocletian’s Palace with air-conditioned rooms, TV, Wi-Fi, terraces with sea views and tasty breakfasts. Check availability from €90 .
• Apartments – for all your amenities in a private setting, stay at Apartment Linda , Best Location Apartments or Split Inn Apartments .
• Browse all Split accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a better idea of what to do in Split, Croatia and you have a wonderful time doing it!

Read more of my Croatia content…

• The ultimate Croatia itinerary
• Solo travel in Croatia: what to expect & tips

Split blogs:

• 22 amazing day trips from Split
• Guide to Split Old Town, Croatia
• Marjan Hill Split guide
• Things to do in Trogir, Croatia
• The ultimate Krka Falls day trip from Split
• 18 best restaurants in Split
• The best coffee in Split

Zagreb blogs:

• Things to in Zagreb, Croatia
• 15 best Zagreb coffee shops
• Zagreb street art walking tour
• How to visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

Dubrovnik blogs:

• Fun things to do in Dubrovnik
• Visiting Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik
• A day trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina from Dubrovnik
• The top things to do in Zadar, Croatia
• How (and why) to visit Pag Island from Zadar
• Visiting Dugi Otok, Croatia – Zadar’s best island

For more UK content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING EUROPE Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains, I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses, I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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58 Fun Things to Do in Split, Croatia

Forget about Zagreb; move over, Split!

Today, it’s all about Split. As Croatia’s second-largest city and the focal point of the stunning Dalmatia region, this Adriatic gem is climbing the tourist charts with every passing year. Still, despite its increasing popularity, compared to the overrun tourist hubs of Western Europe, Split remains serene, relatively quiet, and rarely crowded.

Known as the second largest city in Croatia, Split is also known for its Venetian architecture, fantastic cuisine, and relatively low-cost attractions. Another bonus? It has almost 2,500 hours of sun per year, making it a perfect destination to travel to all year round.

If you’re on the hunt for the most fun things to do in Split (or the best things to do in Croatia, in general), then look no further.

From adrenaline-pumping rafting, hiking, and canyoning activities to an Old City exploding with cultural and architectural history, not to mention all the nightclubs and Game of Thrones fanfare, the sun-kissed city of Split boasts something for every kind of traveler.

Ready to see what Croatia’s Adriatic metropolis-by-the-sea has to offer?

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Split tours

1 – Stroll through the historic Old Town

Walk along cobblestoned streets; explore the 1700-year-old Diocletian’s palace, and step inside the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world (Cathedral of Saint Domnius), all within the confines of Split’s charming Old Town.

In between visiting the landmarks, take a break at one of many tourist-adored restaurants, cafes, and bars.

• walking tours in Split

2 – Step back in time at the Diocletian’s Palace

Dating back to 293 AD, Diocletian’s Palace is one of the most historically significant buildings in Croatia, and therefore a non-negotiable addition to any history or architecture buff’s list of things to do in Split.

The Roman icon can be explored as a standalone attraction, however, many visitors choose to combine it with a guided Old Town walking tour.

• Diocletian’s Palace tours

3 – Witness the sparkling hues of the Blue Cave

Cameras at the ready, people!

Over on the east side of the tiny island of Biševo, the unequivocally stunning Blue Cave awaits — its radiant tones making for the perfect backdrop of any Dalmatian coast selfie.

While the most popular grotto in the area, it’s far from the only; 25 additional caves scatter Biševo, and the majority of tours will admire at least a handful of them.

The Blue Cave is also included in jet boat tours .

• Blue Cave boat tours

4 – Walk in the shoes of Daenerys Targaryen in the Diocletian’s cellars

Game of Thrones fans, this one’s for you!

While the walled city of Dubrovnik might get all the GOT attention, Split also boasts a number of immediately recognizable locations.

Remember when Daenerys was locked up in the cellar? And remember where she trained her dragons?

All that took place in the historic Diocletian’s Palace, which doubles in the show as the former slave city of Meereen.

• Game of Thrones tours in Split

5 – Spend an afternoon at the city’s best beaches

Being a coastal city blessed by sunshine over 300 days of the year, it should come as no surprise that Split plays host to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.

From white-sand shores with hidden coves, to pebble beaches and popular city beaches lined with bars and restaurants, you’re bound to find the perfect spot to soak up some sun in Split. – there’s something for everyone!

But where to begin? Firule Beach and Kasjuni Beach are two of the most popular spots – for good reason.

The smaller sister of Bacvice Beach (arguably the most popular in the area), Firule Beach is a classic spot that lies just south of Split’s city center, known for its stunning views, shallow and calm crystal-clear waters (ideal for families) and plenty of space for sunbathing.

Then there’s Kasjuni Beach — nested on the southern side of Park Šuma Marjan (a lovely green space when you’re in need of a break from the city), this beautiful spot is known to be rather peaceful, with a beach bar on site if you want to grab a bite or a refreshing drink.

Hunting for something more secluded? Žnjan Beach, the largest beach in Split, is big enough to never be crowded, while Beach Trstenik next door is equally peaceful, with sun loungers to rent and plenty of spots to grab a drink.

Beach Ježinac is considered one of the best swimming spots in Split, and Kaštelet Beach is regarded as one of the area’s prime snorkeling and kayaking spots (but make sure to wear water shoes).

On the sizzling summer days, any of these spots promises a much-needed dose of relaxation.

6 – Take a walk around Republic Square

Also known as Prokurative, Republic Square is a beautiful public gathering space surrounded by stunning neo-Renaissance arches, boasting beautiful views of the sea.

Situated in the heart of Old Town, the square buzzes to life with the many different restaurants and bars located there, as well as the square doubling as a center for public concerts and other shows.

Walk down the steps, and admire the fountain and gardens nearby.

7 – Admire the Saint Domnius Cathedral & Bell Tower

While its bell tower was added in the 12th century, the main structure of Saint Domnius Cathedral dates back all the way to the year 3 AD, making it the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that remains in use.

Tickets to this Croatian icon offer access to the Cathedral, Bell Tower, Crypt, Treasury, Baptistery, and more, usually keeping visitors intrigued a good hour or two.

8 – Go rafting on the Cetina River

Combine picturesque scenery with high-octane thrills and non-stop action by cannoning down the Cetina River ‘s whitewater.

The Class 2 and Class 3 rapids provide the perfect balance of intensity and relaxation, making this outdoor activity ideal for the whole family.

After tackling the rapids, riders are greeted with a delicious lunch to recharge the batteries.

• rafting tours from Split

9 – Hike through the beautiful Krka National Park

Home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls and forestry in Europe, Krka National Park is one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

Ditch the crowds of the city — hike, raft, cruise, swim, or jump into Krka’s crystal clear waters instead!

For the final cherry on top, tours often include a free wine or spirit tasting, sourced from local vineyards.

Check out more fun day trips from Split , many of which make a bonus stop in Sibenik .

• Krka day trips from Split

10 – Learn about bygone centuries at the Archaeological Museum

Dating back to 1820, Split’s Archeological Museum proudly boasts the title of the oldest museum institution in Croatia — impressively, its artifacts date back long before then, focusing on local culture during the Middle Ages, between the 7th and 15th centuries.

The educational exhibitions sit within a looming estate-like building, complemented by a charming garden.

11 – Surround yourself with nature in Marjan Forest Park

Dubbed the “lungs of the city”, the 123-meter-high Marjan hill is a beautiful natural preserve overgrown with trees and entirely surrounded by built-up city life.

Explore its waterways by kayak or paddleboard, and its trails by eco-car or electric bike — for the most popular, calorie-burning option, tackle one of the many scenic hiking routes.

• Marjan tours

12 – Explore the island of Hvar

A popular summer resort home to pristine beaches, lavender fields, 13th-century history, a hilltop fortress, and endless more, there are no shortage of fun things to do in Hvar .

Some tourists prefer to take the ferry and explore at their own pace, however, the most efficient way to tick off multiple attractions is a locally-led tour that also visits Trogir and the Blue Cave.

• Hvar tours from Split

13 – Get trippy inside Muzej lluzija

A perfect rainy day activity is a trip to Muzej lluzija (Museum of Illusions), where you’ll be doing double takes as you enter the funky-themed room of fears, walking through the tricky Vortex Tunnel, and looking closely at holograms.

Let your eyes adjust to the optical illusions, and watch your step as you enter the tilted room, and so much more.

Tickets start at 70,000 kn, and opening hours are from 10 am-10 pm.

• Museum of Illusions tickets

14 – Snorkel in the Blue Lagoon

As the divider between three small islands, the Blue Lagoon is a marine haven regarded as Split’s ultimate swimming and snorkeling location.

Most journeys out to its bright waters also include a stop at the medieval town of Trogir — the perfect back-to-back itinerary for a day outside of mainland Split.

Rent a private speedboat or combine the trip with an onboard wine-tasting experience for that extra special touch.

• Blue Lagoon tours from Split

15 – Put the pedal to the metal at Karting Arena Split

Petrolheads, this one has your name all over it. Officially the biggest go-kart track in the Dalmatia region, stretched across 1500 square meters, the Karting Arena Split is the perfect place for a bit of adrenaline-fuelled indoor fun.

Featuring 16 turns and the advanced AMB MyLaps timing, drift around corners and track your lap times for bragging rights. Open daily until 10 PM in City Center One mall, it’s a must-visit. Starting at €20 for an adult session, it’s also budget-friendly compared to other Split adventures.

Traveling as a large group? For €500 an hour, you can actually rent out the whole track – a great option for bachelor parties.

While you’re there: Thanks to its location inside the City Center One shopping mall, you’re within easy reach of a cinema, a kids’ playroom, and no less than 190 different stores – so it’s best to reserve an entire afternoon.

16 – Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking like something straight out of a fairytale, Plitvice is a slice of nature beckoning tourists towards its enchanting waters and vast greenery.

For photographers, nature lovers, and hikers, it’s heaven on Earth — for everyone else, it’s still one of the best things to do near Split, without a doubt.

• Plitvice Lakes tours from Split

17 – Sunbake on Brač Island

While less popular than the likes of Hvar and Korcula, the peaceful, beautiful island of Brac is not to be underestimated.

Make sure to spend a couple of hours sunbaking at the horseshoe-shaped Supetar beach, next to the island’s vibrant main town.

Hikers, don’t miss Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic islands.

• Brac tours from Split

18 – Take a luxury catamaran cruise

For one of the most fun things to do in Split, it’s hard to go past a relaxing day on the Adriatic’s warm waters, wading between islands on a luxury catamaran.

Choose from a standalone cruise, focusing on tanning and rejuvenating, or make a day of it with stops at places like Hvar, the Blue Cave, Bol, Brac, or Solta — there’s a customizable itinerary for everyone.

• boat tours from Split

19 – Feel the ultimate thrill: go skydiving!

Twisting its way along the Adriatic Sea, the Croatian coastline is a postcard-perfect scene of cliffy shorelines, blue waters, rugged island mountains and stunning islands.

And if you consider yourself an adrenaline junkie, then there’s no better way to experience it than from the air — skydiving in Split promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

For the ultimate thrill, choose a tandem jump, where you’ll be attached to a professional skydiver and tossed out of the Cessna from close to 10,000 feet. Not only do you get some incredible views of Split and its surrounding islands, but you also get almost a minute of pure freefall prior to gliding your way safely back down to the ground.

Not ready to take the plunge? Then consider one of the scenic flights over the Split region instead

• skydiving in Split

20 – Admire sculptures at the Mestrovic Gallery

Dedicated to the collections of the famous 20th-century sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, the Mestrovic Gallery consistently ranks as one of the top five things to do in Split.

Besides its indoor exhibitions, the sculpture-lined gardens are a work of art in their own right.

Make sure to head to the gallery’s terrace — the incredible ocean views won’t disappoint.

21 – Enjoy tasty Croatian delicacies on a Food tour

Take a tour around the city, and learn about the history through food like nowhere else on a food tour of Split.

Devour snacks, dishes, and other treats typical of Split, from Pasticada to the traditional Fritule pastry, on a 3-hour walking tour of the city where you’ll also meet the restaurant owners.

Step inside local restaurants, markets, and pastry shops where you’ll try a variety of dishes, desserts, and wine to give you energy for the day.

• food tours in Split

22 – Explore Split’s scenic waterways by canoe

Managing to relax as well as a good workout, canoeing on the rivers around Split is a wonderful way to see the region from a different perspective, away from the run-of-the-mill tourists.

Unless you decide to rent your own kayak and paddle around the beaches, most canoeing experiences will head down the Cetina River — one of the region’s main waterways. As you float your way along, you’ll be greeted by limestone cliffs, blue-green waters and plenty of chances to spot birds and wildlife on the river banks.

While most of the Cetina is calm and peaceful, it’s not without its thrills either. During the summer months, some organized canoe tours will include a few rapids (usually grade II whitewater) and short drops that are guaranteed to get your heart racing!

Why choose an official tour? Besides not having to worry about any of the logistics, these adventures typically also visit the charming village of Šestanovac, allowing you to experience a little slice of the local culture too.

• canoeing in Split

23 – Zip through Split on a tuk-tuk or rickshaw

Did you know that you could rent a Tuk Tuk to take you leisurely around Split? For $80 USD, you and your friends can be driven around on a Tuk Tuk to see the sights, from the architecture, nature, and notable sights throughout.

Starting at just €40, Tuk-Tuk city tours are incredibly affordable and provide a unique view of the city from the streets. You can expect to roll through Split’s narrow alleys and main squares, checking off quintessential attractions like the Diocletian’s Palace, St. Domnius Cathedral, Marjan Hill and Bacvice Beach – all in a fraction of the time it would take to explore the city on foot.

A more eco-friendly option, electric rickshaw tours in Split follow a similar route, giving you a chance to see spots like the Croatian National Theater and the Marjan Forest Park, passing by buzzing bars and restaurants along the way.

Plus, all tours are operated by local guides who will be more than happy to share their knowledge and personal tips about the city. It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do in Split!

• city tours in Split

24 – Feel the rumble on an ATV safari

Adventure isn’t typically the first word that comes to mind when we picture Split, which is exactly why so many adrenaline junkies jump for joy when they discover the city’s phenomenal off-roading opportunities.

The thrilling, guided ATV tours explore the valleys, hills, and hidden trails of places like Dalmatia Island and Ciovo Island, regularly leaving guests chuffed.

Continue the thrills by booking a buggy tour , traversing through Split’s stunning nature where lunch may be provided.

• quad tours in Split

25 – Soak up the sun at the city’s top beach clubs

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not give yourself a break, knock back a couple of drinks, and soak up the sun on one of Split’s gorgeous beaches? Adored by international partygoers, there are several beach clubs dotted across the coastline that combine music with strong cocktails and delicious snacks.

So, where do we start? A recent addition to the area, Joe’s Beach Lounge & Bar at Kašjuni Beach is easy to get to, with a ton of sunbeds, cabanas, and activities.

Down at Split’s most famous beach, Bačvice, the appropriately named Beach & Booze boasts live DJs, a diverse cocktail menu, and plenty of pub-style grub to tie you over.

Prefer something more relaxed? Over at the Radisson Blu Hotel, the Mistral Beach Bar at Trstenik Beach offers a calmer atmosphere, with an excellent restaurant on-site. But definitely keep an eye on the calendar, because when Mistral decides to throw a proper beach party, things can get pretty wild!

Keep in mind: most of the beach clubs are only open during the summer, from roughly mid-May to the end of October. If you’re visiting outside of these months, check out some of Split’s best bars instead.

26 – Go canyoning on the Cetina River

The canyon walls of the Cetina River soar up to 180 meters high and continue to be shaped by millions of years of crashing whitewater.

But this is no outdoor museum, folks — this is a thrill-seeker’s paradise.

Visitors with nerves of hardened steel abseil down the cliffs and wade through the rapids on the almost 3-kilometer-long crusade. Adventure enthusiasts, lock this one in!

• canyoning tours from Split

27 – Zipline in the Kozjak Mountains

Boasting six ziplines combining for over 2500 meters worth of high-speed thrills, plus a 90-meter-long suspension bridge (hold on tight!), the Kozjak Mountains are an outdoor adventure utopia!

Besides the obvious adventure draws, the mountains also dish up stellar views of Split and the sparkling sea beyond.

• ziplining in Split

28 – Take a day trip to the beautiful Dubrovnik

Explore a full-day trip to the city of Dubrovnik from Split, where you’ll get to step through the 16th-century fortifications to explore the beautiful coastal city, indulge in the Mediterranean-inspired food, and see sights like the Sponza Palace and Dominican Monastery.

Take a 3-hour journey on an air-conditioned bus, as you take in sights from the breathtaking coastal drive.

• Dubrovnik day trips from Split

29 – Hop between the Pakleni Islands

Just below Hvar, the Pakleni Islands are picture-perfect destinations booming with fantastic restaurants, secluded beaches, and eclectic beach bars.

However, jumping between them independently can be tricky (unless you’re willing to hire a private boat ).

Most travelers choose to simplify the adventure by joining a tour and relaxing on the bow of a smooth-sailing catamaran instead.

• Pakleni Islands tours from Split

30 – Check out giant torpedoes at the Croatian Maritime Museum

Sitting within a 17th-century fort, the Croatian Maritime Museum presents centuries worth of Adriatic marine heritage, with exhibits and artifacts spanning the prehistoric era to WW2, all the way up to modern times.

The submarine section is notably impressive, likewise the torpedo display and the sublime views of Split from the deck.

31 – Embark on a bike tour

Ditch the crowds of tourists!

Explore the history, nature, and culture of the Mediterranean pearl on two wheels instead, traversing through lesser-known locales with stops at underrated landmarks.

Slow-paced tours operate throughout the city’s islands, historic mainland, and along the picturesque coasts, often including tastings at a winery, ice creamery, or brewery too.

• bike tours in Split

32 – Rent a boat and sail around the Adriatic at your own pace

When people think Croatia, nine out of ten picture sun-soaked boat parties (the other probably pictures King’s Landing). And while you’ve got no shortage of high-energy, boozy boat tours leaving from Split, there’s nothing wrong with something a little more relaxed.

If you’re looking to take things at your own pace, why not rent your own boat for the day? You can take your pick from luxury speedboats or sailboats, or even a vessel that comes with your own private crew and captain.

With all the provided, all you have to do is pack your snacks and drinks for the day, decide on an itinerary, and enjoy that glorious sun!

Not sure where to go? Each of the nearby islands (Brac, Drvenik, Hvar, Solta and Vis) presents as relaxing spot away from the crowds, all full of hidden bays and beaches. Or, check out some of the more notable landmarks like the Golden Horn, Pakleni Islands, Blue Cave, Green Cave, or Blue Lagoon.

• boat rentals in Split

33 – Scale the Perun Cliff face on Split’s Via Ferrata

If you’re on the hunt for a unique and spectacular adventure in Split, look no further than its Via Ferrata. Explore mountain trails and wild forests and strap on your harness and helmet for a fun-packed climbing experience.

Join a professional instructor and ascend the 300 meters to the top of the Perun cliff face where you’ll see impressive views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic church of St Jure.

• via ferrata in Split

34 – Taste the region’s wide variety of homegrown wines

Croatia’s wine history, spanning centuries, may not match Italy or France’s fame, but its quality is impeccable. Crisp white lovers should try Pošip, Maraština, and Debit, while red aficionados will enjoy Babić or Plavac Mali grapes.

Just a short drive from the city reveals myriad wineries, including standout options like Bedalov, Matela, Vuina, and Mimica. If venturing to Krka National Park, don’t miss Bibich Winery.

Pro tip: Avoid the hassle of driving back from a winery with a few too many tastings, and opt for one of the numerous wine tours that depart daily from Split. These excursions showcase the region’s finest vineyards, offering a deep dive into Croatian wine culture.

• wine tasting tours in Split

35 – Sample authentic Croatian fare at the city’s top restaurants

Foodies, this one is for you. Boasting everything from fine dining establishments to hole-in-the-wall eateries, street food vendors and a smattering of food and wine tours, Split is a gastronomic heaven on earth.

While there are numerous Michelin-recommended restaurants like ZOI and Konoba Fetivi, start at Zinfandel Food and Wine Bar in Split’s heart. It boasts Croatian wines, delectable homemade pasta, and vegan choices.

Regarded as the city’s top pizza spot, Basta Bar wows with its cliffside ocean views. Locals and tourists flock here not only for the pizza but the ambiance as well (tip: reserve early).

For quality meals at good prices, Dvor is your destination. A short walk from Old Town, this eatery offers Mediterranean dishes and delicious desserts, all with a picturesque sea backdrop.

Pinching pennies? Rizzo Sandwiches , Tavern Tri Volta and Kantun Paulina are all excellent value for money. On the flipside, if you’re happy to splurge, then Konoba Nikola Stobrec, Sug and Zrno Soli , with their fresh seafood and fine wines, are some of the best upscale restaurants in town.

And if there’s still room for dessert, then make your way over to Luka’s Ice Cream and Cakes – a beloved joint just behind the Croatian National Theater.

36 – Spend a day at Mostar and the Kravice Waterfalls

Just a two-hour drive from Split sits one of Central Europe’s most underrated small cities: Mostar , home to the iconic Old Bridge and the gateway to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s breathtaking Kravice Waterfalls.

Resembling a condensed version of Plitvice, without all the obnoxious crowds, Kravica remains one of the continent’s best-kept natural secrets.

On the way there, you may stop by the Catholic holy site of Medjugorje to see Apparition Hill.

• Kravice Waterfalls tours from Split

37 – Visit the Klis Fortress (‘Meereen’ in Game of Thrones)

Another intriguing Game of Thrones location (Meereen), this medieval fortress towers 360 meters above the town of Klis, boasting a breathtaking contrast of city and sea.

A number of GOT-themed tours operate throughout the Split region, allowing keen fans to tick off all of the film sets in just one hassle-free afternoon.

38 – Get back to nature while windsurfing at Omiš

The clear verdant waters of the Omiš Coastline offer some of the best windsurfing in Croatia. The coastline is blessed with shallow waters, sandy bays and the powerful Mistral winds that blow throughout the summer months.

Take a windsurfing lesson and try out this unique and action-packed sport for yourself. Just a short trip from Split, Omiš is a windsurfing paradise for first-timers and fanatics alike.

• windsurfing in Omis

39 – Go sea kayaking on the Adriatic!

With allocated time for cliff jumping, snorkeling , and unwinding along the way, a kayaking adventure between the Adriatic Islands promises to be a wonderful day in the sun for travelers of all ages.

Explore the world within the Adriatic Sea on a scuba diving experience , swimming 6 meters below sea level.

Whether your journey takes you through the Marjan forest, Bacina lakes, Cetina River, or along the Makarska Riviera, expect nothing but amazing memories!

• kayaking in Split

40 – Watch a movie under the stars at Open Air Cinema

Select through a variety of films, from national to international at the Open Air Cinemas , located right beside the sea in the city center.

Spend an evening with your friends or partner watching a movie, many of which are offered in Croatian and in English either dubbed or with subtitles.

Tickets are available for purchase online, as well as the movie selections currently playing. If bad weather ruins the evening plans, the cinema will reschedule or refund you.

41 – Dive into underwater wonders with an exciting scuba diving adventure

Split boasts narrow streets, a rich history and a vibrant cafe culture. However, beneath the Adriatic’s surface , just off the coast, lies a whole other world teeming with marine life, attracting divers worldwide, thanks to its 30+ nearby dive sites.

From intriguing wrecks like Wreck Poja to mesmerizing caves such as the Blue Cave, there’s a myriad of underwater adventures.

Never dived before? There are plenty of beginner-friendly sites in the area, as well as courses and dive shops that will help you get up to speed, making sure you learn breathing techniques, underwater hand signals and safety processes before you get in the open water.

On the flipside, if you’re a seasoned diver looking for something more advanced, then the Lucice Cave or RT Kabal sites should be high on the list.

• scuba diving in Split

42 – See ancient ruins at Salona

Overflowing with Roman and Medieval history, ancient ruins, and remarkable stories of creation and destruction, Salona is an easy, worthwhile day trip from Split.

The Amphitheater, which was rumored to formerly host 20,000 spectators, plus the Hollow Church, are merely two of the countless ancient landmarks spread across this notable city.

• Salona tours from Split

43 – Discover the Adriatic coast on a jet ski

Take a jet ski tour from Split and get to know the Adriatic coastline in a unique, action-packed way. Explore the clear crystal waters at your own pace, and visit the Split Archipelago’s nearby islands and their picturesque secluded bays. Enjoy a full-day or half-day tour or opt for a romantic sunset cruise. Jetski tours in Split are an unforgettable way to beat the summer heat!

• jet ski tours in Split

44 – Go slow on Šolta Island

A relatively untouched island so close to Split that it’s basically considered a suburb, Solta  — a coastal oasis packed with a handful of charming villages — provides a go-slow approach to Mediterranean life and a visible change of pace compared to the mainland.

Maslinica is a sailing town worthy of a postcard, while Stomorska boasts a promenade full of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

• Solta Island tours from Split

45 – Hop between the city’s lively bars

While the beaches and the food attract most of the international spotlight, dive below the surface and you’ll find that Split has a thriving entertainment scene as well. Nowhere is that more evident than its wide spread of bars – speakeasies, jazz bars, Irish pubs, and everything in between.

For something a little more sophisticated (think: handcrafted cocktails and low-lit interiors), make sure to check out the Bar Veneranda, where you can enjoy a range of Croatian and international flavors.

Take your pick from Teraca Vidilica, a Marjan Park crowd favorite that dishes up great views and food to boot; Leopold’s Delicatessen Bar, which boasts one of the largest selections of beer in all of Split; the bohemian Academia Ghetto Club, the rakija-full Split Circus, and the café-club Clo Bar are all great options to wet your whistle.

• pub crawls in Split

For some smooth grooves and a relaxed atmosphere, head on over to Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. Located in the heart of the old town inside the famous Diocletian’s Palace, this cozy bar is well-known for its live music, sublime cocktails, specialty Croatian liqueurs, and shelves of unusual books to peruse.

Also found in the Diocletian’s Palace, Charlie’s Bar welcomes hordes of international tourists looking to let their hair down, with extended happy hours, live music, and an unbeatable atmosphere.

46 – Walk in the footsteps of pro athletes at Poljud Stadium

Built back in 1979, this 34,000-seat stadium has long been considered one of Split’s top landmarks.

Tucked away on the northern side of the Split peninsula, just over 20 minutes walk (or a 10-minute drive) from the historic town center, the stadium primarily hosts Hajduk Split football matches, but also international games, festivals, and concerts.

Even off-season (August-May), visitors can partake in stadium tours, exploring trophy rooms and learning its history. For a thrill, try the Skywalk and Rope Swing experience.

Nearby is the Archaeological Museum, offering a glimpse into ancient history within a picturesque setting.

• Poljud Stadium tours

47 – Make your way over to Vis Island

If you’re planning an island-hopping adventure in Split (which you absolutely should), Vis — a little-known natural paradise for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking — is an essential addition to the itinerary.

Choose a tour that combines Vis with Hvar and the Blue Cave for a truly unforgettable day.

• Vis Island tours from Split

48 – Take a day trip from Split to Trogir

An always-popular day trip from Split, the medieval town of Trogir blends oceanside beauty with intriguing architectural history.

With so many of its original buildings still standing — including Hellenistic structures, Romanesque churches, and the stone city walls — it’s no surprise that Trogir’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

• Trogir day trips from Split

Visit the beautiful beaches on the Trogir Riviera – just 30 minutes away from Split – and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins. Alternatively, glide high above the shimmering Adriatic Sea and glimpse the best that the Dalmatian Coast has to offer.

The perfect adventure sport for chilled-out thrills, parasailing offers an exhilarating experience like no other. Enjoy parasailing alone, or with up to two of your friends for the ultimate group experience!

• parasailing in Trogir

49 – Walk along the Riva Waterfront

One of the best things to do in Split, especially on a toasty summer’s day, is to stroll down the vibrant and lively Riva promenade.

The walkway — which offers up never-ending views of Croatia’s idyllic coastline — runs the entire length of Old Town, lined with some of Split’s most celebrated restaurants, cafes, and nightlife destinations.

50 – Check out Froggyland, one of the wackiest museums on Earth

Amphibians, meet humans. Humans, meet amphibians. Of all the fun things to do in Split, Froggyland is categorically the most bizarre.

The fascinating attraction displays a collection of over 500 stuffed, weirdly-cute frogs living their lives as pretend humans, attending courtrooms, ribbitting into musical instruments, and so much more.

And that’s it folks! We hope you have enjoyed our list of fun things to do in Split. Please comment below if you have any other recommendations.

51 – Fight dragons at the Game of Thrones Museum

For film and TV fans, a visit to the Game of Thrones Museum should be high atop any bucket list of things to do in Split.

Stroll through the exhibits admiring real costumes, genuine props, and even a giant dragon’s head!

Far from your regular museum, this one uses lighting, music, and scents to create an eerie, unique atmosphere — you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Westeros.

• Game of Thrones Museum tickets

52 – See more of Split in a short amount of time on a segway tour

Explore the beautiful sites of Split on a 2-hour long segway tour, rolling through the historic center of Split. Take in the architecture of St. Duje’s Cathedral, learn about the statue of Grgur Ninski, and see more of the city in a relatively short amount of time.

In between sightseeing, you’ll stop for a coffee at a local cafe to refuel, and ask questions to your knowledgeable tour guide.

• segway tours in Split

53 – Level up your wakeboarding at Split’s scenic beaches

Wakeboard straight from the beach at Split’s purpose-built wakeboarding park, just 20 minutes outside the city. The five-tower towing system means you don’t need a boat to pull you and the park’s location on a private beach offers the most fun and natural wakeboarding experience.

There’s a selection of jumps and kickers to try making it fun for first-timers and experienced riders alike.

If you love wet and wild watersports, Split has all the bases covered.

• wakeboarding in Split

54 – Wet your whistle with a beer-tasting experience

Feeling thirsty? Home to an underrated beer scene, Split welcomes thirsty tourists with a bounty of craft breweries and bars — Tap B Craft Brewery & Brewpub , The Daltonist Craft Bar , LAB Pivo , Leopold’s Delicatessen Bar, and Mandrill Nano Brewing, to name a few.

And while you can easily hop between some of the city’s revered bars, why not take things to the next level with an official beer-tasting tour? Led by local craft beer experts, these boozy tours take you on a journey around some of the best-hidden pubs, breweries and (occasionally) clubs places in Split.

Not only will you get to taste a handful of local specialties, but you’ll also learn all about the brewing techniques and the history of Croatian beer culture along the way!

Hot tip: if you only have a short amount of time in the city, consider booking one of the bike and beer combo tours – you’ll get to ride all over the city, checking off plenty of things on the bucket list, and sample some delicious local craft beers in the process. Cheers!

• beer tastings in Split

55 – Do shots of Rakija on a bar-hopping extravaganza

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not let out your wild side and spend a night out on the town?

With so many unique bars, pubs, and clubs, choosing the best spots can be a little tricky (especially when you’re three beers down).

Take the easy route: let the experts plan your party, with VIP access and unlimited drinks sure to liven up any night!

It’s one of the easiest ways to meet fellow travelers and step outside your comfort zone.

56 – Ride glowing stand-up paddleboards at night

Stand-up paddleboarding during the day is calming; stand-up paddleboarding under the moonlight is magical!

Thanks to the board-mounted LED lights, not only is your path illuminated by enchanting colors, but you’ll also be able to spot vibrant fish skirting beneath the surface as you slowly glide across the Split’s charming waterfront.

• stand up paddle in Split

57 – Embark on a romantic sunset cruise

The Adriatic coast is stunning any time of day; but in Split, where the orange-topped buildings contrast against the deep blue sea, dusk only manages to amplify the beauty.

Seriously romantic, a sunset cruise is the perfect way to take it all in, combining breathtaking views of the city and Mount Marjan with the golden-hour sky.

And with a handful of different companies offering different sunset vibes, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. For something relaxing, opt for a sunset sail with live music, or (if you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks) a private sail.

Alternatively, for something a little more adventurous, you’ve got sunset snorkeling tours on the menu too. If sightseeing is the aim of the game, it’s hard to go past a Brac Island and Sutivan Village sunset sail; and if you’re after a more high-energy boat party, you’ll find no shortage of open-bar night cruises.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll have a crew and captain on hand to take care of all the logistics – all you need to do is sit back and soak up the late afternoon glow.

• sunset cruises in Split

58 – Party it up at the city’s top nightclubs

Once you’ve explored Split’s bars, it’s time to take the party up a notch at the city’s clubs. Scattered mostly throughout Bacvice, Old Town, and Poljud, these venues offer diverse vibes and music genres, from top-40 to EDM. Whatever your preference, Split’s nightlife has you covered.

Easily one of the most popular clubs in town is Vanilla . With a huge terrace ideal for summer nights, (relatively) cheap drinks, and a mix of both locals and tourists, there’s arguably no better venue for dancing into the wee hours of the morning.

Just a few minutes away from Diocletian’s Palace, Central Club (an electro-house hotspot housed inside a former cinema) can hold over 1,000 people – all of whom are always in awe of the go-go dancers and acrobats strutting down the catwalks.

Velvet , open from 11 PM to 4 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, is another of the city’s swankiest and most famous nightclubs. The elegant spot has a big dance floor; a live DJ playing all sorts of music, and regular themed parties.

Somewhat of a hidden gem, tucked away on the second floor of an office block, the Quasimodo Club is known for its indie gigs and DJ nights, regularly welcoming Croat and Balkan bands – arguably, it’s the best place to soak up the local music scene.

And while many consider it a bar, we can’t forget about the artistic Academia Club Ghetto on Dosud Street, a bohemian watering hole with a distinctly underground club feel.

How to get to Split?

There are various ways that you can get to Split, whether it’s by plane, ferry, train, or car. The main airport in Split is called Split Airport (Resnik Airport – SPU).

To get to Split city center from the airport, you can get a shuttle bus, which takes 30 minutes to arrive, or you can book an airport transfer in Split which takes around 20 minutes and starts around $15 USD one way.

Where to stay in Split?

Located in the heart of Split is the historic and beautiful Hotel Vestibul Palace & Villa , offering guests elegance and top hospitality. Enjoy the mix of modern amenities with historic details like exposed rock walls and even inquire about their exclusive shuttle bus services.

Dioklecijan Hotel & Residence offers a perfect stay for couples looking for a peaceful escape near the Adriatic Sea. Feel the refreshing and healing ambiance in the bright interiors of the hotel, and welcome every morning with a cup of coffee on your terrace. Make sure to stop by the rooftop pool, showing an expansive view of the beaches nearby.

Plan to stay at Hotel Agava Split , only a few feet away from the beautiful Republic Square, as well as the stunning Diocletian’s Palace. Enjoy the Italian-inspired continental breakfast every morning, and the sea or mountain views from your room. Split airport is only 27 kilometers away from this hotel.

• best hotels in Split

Visiting Split on a budget?

Looking for a way to enjoy the city for free? Consider booking a free walking tour in Split , where you’ll walk alongside a local guide and other curious travelers, learning about the historic significance of the city center, as well as learning the streets of the city for your own adventures.

Additionally, you can ask your guide questions and recommendations on the best restaurants which is a bonus!

Where to go next?

After ticking off all of the diverse activities Split has to offer, why not make your way down the Adriatic coast and explore some of Croatia’s other incredible destinations? So long as you have a few days spare, there’s plenty to see and do down here – both on the coast and inland.

If you’re short on time, it’s only 40 minutes by car to the charming UNESCO-listed town of Trogir. Nestled on a small island between mainland Croatia and Čiovo, this charming ancient city spans centuries of history, boasting a well-preserved Old Town with quaint Roman and Renaissance architecture scattered throughout its winding alleys. If you’re looking for things to do in Trogir , then the St. Lawrence Cathedral and Bell Tower, The Chapel of Ivan Orsini, and the handful of Game of Thrones (Qarth) locations should be high on the list.

A little further afield, accessible only by a lovely boat ride (about 70 minutes by ferry), the beautiful island of Hvar is another spot definitely deserving of a visit. Besides some of the most stunning beaches in the region (case in point: Plaža Dubovica and Beach Mina), when it comes to things to do in Hvar , the Hvar Lavender Fields and Fortica Fortress are quintessential.

If you drive 2 hours north from Split, you’ll reach Zadar, a seaside city renowned for its Roman and medieval ruins. The city’s most iconic feature (and the most popular of the things to do in Zadar ) is the world-famous Sea Organ – a musical instrument that produces ambient tunes activated by the movement of ocean waves. At night, make sure to stroll the People’s Square, brimming with life, food, music, and top street entertainment.

Of course, we can’t forget about Dubrovnik. From nature to city life and incredible food, there are a ton of things to do in Dubrovnik . The Game of Thrones filming locations are an obvious highlight, including the Red Keep and the Pile Gate, but if you’re after adventure, be sure to take in the sweeping views of the city from the Mount Srd cable car.

Finally, if you plan on venturing inland, there’s no shortage of things to do in Zagreb either. About 4 hours drive from Split, the nation’s capital offers a delightful blend of rich Croatian history, stunning architecture, and a bustling city atmosphere.

Collecting passport stamps? Cross the border with a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, starting with the bustling capital of Sarajevo. Wander down the historic Ferhadija Street, walk through the Sarajevo War Tunnel, and grab a cup of famous Bosnian coffee – just a handful of the most popular things to do in Sarajevo .

Be sure to consider other possibilities by checking out the multi-day trips from Split , a hassle-free and comfortable way to see more of the country.

Final thoughts

From the stunning Diocletian’s Palace to the natural marvels of the Blue Caves on the east side of the island of Biševo, and scrumptious Mediterranean classics at the seaside restaurant of Dvor, we can guess that you’re ready to “split” and visit Split once and for all.

We hope that you enjoyed our list of the fun things to do in Split and that you’ve gotten a few more ideas to add to your bucket list.

Happy travels!

Tourist Board of Split Official Website

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