Summary
- Best Things To Do In Split, Croatia
- 1. Walk Around Old Town Split (Diocletian’s Palace)
- 2. See The View from St. Dominus Cathedral’s Bell Tower
- 3. Visit The Game of Thrones Museum
- 4. Day Trip to Krka National Park
- 5. Stroll Down The Seaside Promenade
- 6. Relax At Forest Park Marjan
- 7. See The Exhibit at the Mestrovic Gallery
- 8. Head to Trogir For A Day
- 9. Day trip To Plitvice Lakes National Park
- 10. Visit The Museum of Illusions
- 11. Boat Trip to the Blue Cave
- 12. Take a Break at Bacvice Beach
- 13. See The Diocletian Aqueduct
- 14. Discover The Local Cuisine
- 15. Go Inside Jupiter’s Temple
- 16. Visit Zadar
- 17. Visit The Froggyland Museum
- 18. Attend a Local Wine Tasting
- 19. Tour Diocletian’s Cellars
- 20. See the Fortresses in Šibenik
- 21. Skywalk Poljud
- 22. See The Old Town Hall
- 23. Croatian Maritime Museum
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 offers a myriad of activities, making it a popular tourist destination known for its historic attractions and stunning beaches. If you’re planning a trip to Split, you’ll discover plenty of ideas on the must-see attractions in this guide. From breathtaking panoramic views of the sea to the best hiking trails in the nearby forest park – here are the finest things to do in Split, Croatia!
This travel guide covers the most exciting attractions that are worth your time in this beautiful Croatian city. With a prime location on the coast and ferry access to numerous Croatian islands, Split serves as an excellent hub for exploring the Dalmatian coast. Visitors can engage in road trips or serene boat cruises, discovering national parks and delightful nearby towns.
Ancient landmarks and charming cobblestone alleys define Split. Your time in this city can be filled with intriguing history, adventure, and local delights, or simply spent soaking up the sun on its picturesque beaches.
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
Best Things To Do In Split, Croatia
With a historic old town, a forest park nestled in the city, and some of the best Game of Thrones tours in Croatia, Split features a broad array of activities. This city is perfect for vacationers, whether you’re eager to explore museums or simply unwind on the beach with a beverage in hand.
Split boasts one of the richest histories among Croatian cities on the Dalmatian coast and exudes an aura of fun. Additionally, its proximity to other beautiful cities facilitates enjoyable day trips.
1. Walk Around Old Town Split (Diocletian’s Palace)
One defining attribute of Split is its UNESCO World Heritage Site status of the old town. Enclosed within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace—originally built as a residence for the Roman emperor—this area is a treasure trove of history.
A favorite pastime of mine in Split was wandering through the narrow cobblestone alleys. While the similar-looking paths challenged my navigation skills, getting lost among them allowed for delightful encounters with charming local shops and playful stray cats.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace and pay special attention to its various city gates. Be sure to inspect every alley, as you never know what hidden gem may lie at its conclusion.
Practical Information: The Old Town of Split is accessible at all hours, free of charge. A guided walking tour is highly recommended for a more enriching experience.
2. See The View from St. Dominus Cathedral’s Bell Tower
The bell tower of St. Dominus Cathedral is a prominent landmark visible around Split, beckoning visitors to ascend for an unforgettable view.
This view ranks as the finest in Split, and you can remain atop the tower for as long as desired. Remember to bring water for the strenuous climb, which can be quite tiring.
Acquire your tickets at the office opposite the Cathedral and prepare for a journey up the narrow, steep stairs. Though the climb is challenging, the panoramic sights awaiting at the top justify the effort.
Insider Tip: Opt for bell tower-only tickets, as they are more economical than combined options, and you can still enter the cathedral itself.
Practical Information: St. Dominus Cathedral and Bell Tower welcome visitors from 8 AM to 7 PM, with ticket prices ranging from 3€ to 15€ depending on what you choose.
3. Visit The Game of Thrones Museum
Split gained international fame largely due to its notable role in Game of Thrones, as several scenes were filmed within Diocletian’s Palace walls. Relationship to the show adds another intriguing layer to a visit, making it identifiable even just while strolling around the old town.
The museum features replicas of dragons and costumes that any avid Game of Thrones fan would relish. However, if the series doesn’t pique your interest, exploring this exhibit may not be necessary.
Practical Information: The Game of Thrones Museum operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, with tickets priced at 14.5€.
4. Day Trip to Krka National Park
Krka National Park, located just an hour outside Split, ranks among the best national parks in Croatia. While I preferred Plitvice Lakes, my visit to Krka was during a national holiday, resulting in larger crowds than I preferred.
Access the park via the Lozovac entrance, which is the most convenient for Split visitors. Allow 5-6 hours to fully enjoy Krka, where included bus rides can minimize walking time.
Skradinski Buk Waterfall is close to the Lozovac entrance, while Roski Waterfall is near the northern entrance. The Franciscan Monastery, situated on a small island, is another highlight requiring a boat excursion for a visit.
Practical Information: Krka National Park is roughly an hour to 90 minutes from Split by car or bus. Tickets range from 7€ to 40€ depending on the season (highest prices occur from July to September).
5. Stroll Down The Seaside Promenade
The seaside promenade, known as Splitska Riva, is a quintessential part of the city. Lined with cafes and restaurants on one side and providing stunning views of the Adriatic Sea on the other, it is ideal for leisurely walks or a refreshing drink.
While many establishments charge premium prices, the vistas justify a brief pause to enjoy the scenery.
Practical Information: The promenade is freely accessible 24/7.
6. Relax At Forest Park Marjan
Marjan Forest Park serves as a serene oasis in Split, located on a peninsula. A visit here can suffice for an entire day, offering hiking trails, scenic observation decks, and beaches, all presenting sweeping views of the historic city center.
Spending time at the park is an excellent way to escape the bustling crowds. Hike to the Telegrin Peak for breathtaking vistas and, after descending, enjoy the beaches near the foot of the hill.
Practical Information: Marjan Forest Park is open to visitors all day and can be accessed via walking trails or local buses.
7. See The Exhibit at the Mestrovic Gallery
Ivan Mestrovic is a revered Croatian sculptor and architect, whose works are present in cities such as Split and Zagreb, as well as Chicago and Baton Rouge.
The Mestrovic Gallery is dedicated to the artist and is situated at the base of Marjan Park, easily reachable from the old town.
The gallery is housed in the former residence of the sculptor, where visitors can explore numerous compelling statues, showcasing Mestrovic’s extraordinary talent.
Practical Information: The Mestrovic Gallery is open daily except Mondays, from 9 AM to 5 PM, with an entry fee of 12€.
8. Head to Trogir For A Day
A half-day trip to Trogir provides an enjoyable escape, located just a 20-minute drive from Split. Travel can be done via highway or local roads, though the latter offers a more picturesque coastal view.
Trogir’s old town is situated on a small island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Its charming cobblestone alleys and ancient architecture make it a delightful exploration.
Do not miss the local castle by the beach, the St. Dominic Monastery, the Trogir City Museum, and St. Peter’s Church.
Practical Information: Travel time to Trogir is 20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus.
9. Day trip To Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes is regarded as Croatia’s top national park, and it is a superb choice for a day trip from Split, located approximately two and a half hours away by car.
Visiting in autumn provided a stunning experience to witness the vibrant colors of trees contrasting against turquoise lakes. The park can be enjoyed without overcrowding during this season.
Multiple hiking trails allow for exploration throughout the park, with free buses and boats available for quicker travel between sights. Experiencing the boat ride was a thrilling highlight.
Insider Tip: Buying tickets at the entrance will save you money.
Practical Information: Plitvice Lakes National Park operates year-round, with an entrance window from 8 AM to 1 PM. Tickets range from 10€ to 40€ based on the season.
10. Visit The Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions originated in Zagreb and has since expanded to locations including Las Vegas and Singapore. This interactive museum offers a captivating experience, filled with unique exhibits.
Spend some time exploring this intriguing attraction in Split, capturing memorable photos and discovering various optical illusions.
One crucial warning: avoid the anti-gravity room, as it can disrupt your balance and induce nausea.
Practical Information: The Museum of Illusions is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, with tickets priced at 12€ per person.
11. Boat Trip to the Blue Cave
The renowned Blue Cave is a natural wonder in Croatia, and a boat tour from Split is the ultimate way to experience it. Along the way, admire nearby islands and the charm of the Adriatic Sea.
This enchanting landmark is located on Bisevo Island, famous for its mesmerizing blue light visible at certain times during sunny days. Access is limited to guided tours only.
- Insider Tip: Swimming inside the Blue Cave is prohibited.
- Practical Information: Tours of the Blue Cave operate from April to October, starting at 100€, which typically includes stops at nearby islands.
Another popular excursion includes a Blue Lagoon cruise along the Dalmatian Coast, allowing for swimming and snorkeling at stunning locations.
12. Take a Break at Bacvice Beach
Bacvice Beach, located just a 15-minute walk from Split’s city center, is renowned for its sandy shoreline and shallow waters—perfect for a dip and sunbathing. Even in March, some locals braved the cold waters for a swim!
The beach is also ideal for sports like volleyball and badminton, provided the winds cooperate. It’s a fantastic spot for relaxation and enjoying the inviting coastal atmosphere.
Practical Information: Bacvice Beach is freely accessible around the clock, just a short stroll from Diocletian’s Palace.
13. See The Diocletian Aqueduct
Another fascinating historic site in Split is the Diocletian Aqueduct, built concurrently with the palace during the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. This impressive structure measures 9 kilometers in length and stands 16.5 meters tall, remarkably well-preserved.
This Roman aqueduct offers an unexpected yet captivating experience in Split, making it a noteworthy visit for history enthusiasts.
Practical Information: The Roman Aqueduct is easily accessible via local buses and is free to enter.
14. Discover The Local Cuisine
The culinary scene is one of the highlights of visiting Split. The city is the ultimate destination for sampling Dalmatian cuisine, celebrated for its seafood dishes, olive oil, and pasta. Mediterranean dining here will delight your palate.
If you prefer a hearty meal, numerous restaurants serve traditional northern Croatian dishes that are rich and meat-oriented.
Don’t miss out on sampling risotto from Corto Maltese, grilled fish at Konoba Marjan, or Istrian pasta in black truffle sauce at Restaurant Bajamonti.
Practical Information: Various restaurants operate from early morning until midnight. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons, though they are typically unnecessary in the off-peak months.
15. Go Inside Jupiter’s Temple
Jupiter’s Temple, a quaint 3rd-century edifice, features a modern statue of Jupiter inside, with a notable sphinx statue standing guard at its entrance.
Recognize it by the tall green double doors, and although the interior is modest, it’s worth admiring the exquisite carvings on the ceiling.
Practical Information: Access to Jupiter’s Temple is available for visitors with a ticket for St. Dominus Cathedral and Bell Tower.
16. Visit Zadar
Revered as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Zadar is a stunning coastal city worth the two-hour journey from Split. Its ancient buildings and remarkable old town showcase some of Croatia’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Land Gate and Church of St. Donatus.
The city boasts a remarkable sunset, best enjoyed while listening to the enchanting sounds of the sea organ. Zadar is also home to engaging museums, including the Museum of Ancient Glass and the Archaeological Museum, making it a cultural highlight.
Practical Information: Zadar is reachable in approximately an hour and 45 minutes from Split by car or two and a half hours via bus.
17. Visit The Froggyland Museum
Froggyland is one of the quirkiest museums in Split, renowned for its extensive collection of dioramas featuring miniature frogs in various whimsical scenarios. While I haven’t visited yet, viewing photos has piqued my curiosity for future exploration.
This museum appeals to families and is an enjoyable stop for all ages seeking entertainment beyond the ordinary.
Practical Information: Froggyland Museum is open from 10 AM to 10 PM, typically from April to November.
18. Attend a Local Wine Tasting
The temperate Mediterranean climate of Croatia produces outstanding olive oil and wine, with the finest wineries primarily located in Istria’s northwest and Peljesac peninsula in the south.
During your stay in Split, sample exquisite local wines, often accompanied by light snacks, in many restaurants and bars throughout the city. Alternatively, you can visit the sole winery located beneath an apartment complex.
Divina Vina Winery extends tours and tastings without the need for reservations, making it a unique experience.
Practical Information: Divina Vina Winery operates without specific working hours, so contacting owner Ivan at +385 (0)97 7762 407 is advisable for inquiries regarding tastings.
19. Tour Diocletian’s Cellars
The underground labyrinth of Diocletian’s Palace opens to the public, becoming one of the top attractions in Split, particularly appealing during warmer months.
Guests can enter through the seaside promenade gate, where the cellars provide a cool refuge from the heat. This historically significant area contributes to Split’s UNESCO World Heritage status.
Practical Information: Diocletian’s Cellars are accessible daily from 9 AM until at least 6 PM, and until 8 PM during peak months. The entrance fee is 7€.
20. See the Fortresses in Šibenik
Located just an hour’s drive from Split, Šibenik is a city rich in history. Its stunning old town features spectacular fortresses and a wealth of steps, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its charm.
I highly recommend visiting the Barone Fortress, which boasts a café and panoramic views over the surrounding area. The Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO Heritage site, is also a must-see.
Practical Information: Šibenik is accessible within an hour by car or via a 90-minute bus journey.
21. Skywalk Poljud
Make your way to Poljud Stadium in north Split, where you can embark on an exhilarating Skywalk tour, involving a thrilling walk on the stadium’s rooftop followed by a rope swing adventure.
For those seeking adrenaline, this is not to be missed—definitely a highlight for thrill-seekers visiting Split.
Practical Information: The Skywalk Poljud tours last around 90 minutes and cost 70€. For more details, reach out via email at info@skywalk-poljud.com.
22. See The Old Town Hall
The Old Town Hall stands in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, distinguished by its Gothic-style features and recently renovated design, hosting temporary exhibitions of local art.
During your walk around Split, be sure to spot this building, particularly if there is an exhibition you can enjoy during your visit.
Practical Information: The Old City Hall is located at People’s Square and is open from 9 AM until 9 PM.
23. Croatian Maritime Museum
Established in 1925, the Croatian Maritime Museum showcases maritime artifacts, including a life-sized ship, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of naval history.
With exhibits ranging from historical ship replicas to traditional shipbuilding tools, this museum offers fascinating insights into Croatia’s rich maritime heritage.
Practical Information: The museum is open from 9 AM until 5-8 PM, depending on the season, with tickets priced at 3.50€.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Split In Croatia Worth Visiting?
Yes, Split in Croatia is absolutely worth exploring. The historic town features various attractions, combined with easy beach access and stunning natural beauty.
What Is Split Croatia Best Known For?
Split is best known for Diocletian’s Palace, with its entire old town nestled within the palace walls, originally a summer residence for the Roman emperor.
Why Is Split Croatia So Popular?
This popular destination boasts medieval attractions, exceptional cuisine, and beautiful beaches. The city’s fame skyrocketed after being depicted in the Game of Thrones series.
How Many Days Do I Need In Split?
Plan for at least 2-3 days in Split. This will give you ample time to explore the key landmarks and embark on a quick day trip. If you wish to delve into multiple national parks and towns along the Dalmatian coast, consider a stay of 5-7 days.
Tips and Information For Visiting Split, Croatia
Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons for visiting Split are spring or fall, as summer attracts massive crowds and inflated prices in accommodations and dining. The congested areas can diminish the overall experience.
March provided a great visit; the number of tourists was manageable, making it easy to access popular attractions and restaurants without the need for reservations.
Getting There
Split and Zadar airports provide excellent international connections, ensuring convenient access to the region. Split Airport is just outside the city, while Zadar is roughly three hours away via bus.
Upon landing at Split Airport, consider taking a local bus to the main bus station and then a taxi or bus to your accommodation.
Getting Around
Walking is the easiest way to navigate Split, especially given the proximity of attractions to the old town. Local buses also service the surrounding areas, while rideshare scooters are readily available.
For day trips, renting a car is advisable, as it will save valuable time over bus travel. However, buses do exist for those opting not to drive.
How Much Time Do You Need For Split
Three days in Split is sufficient for experiencing most attractions and a brief day trip. If you wish to explore Plitvice or Krka national parks, I recommend planning for five days, as these excursions require a full day each.
Where To Stay in Split, Croatia
To enjoy the tourist attractions in Split conveniently, seek accommodations within walking distance of the historic center. The Bacvice area offers a peaceful atmosphere while being close to old town attractions.
Avoid staying within Diocletian’s Palace walls due to noise and higher prices; instead, consider excellent nearby options:
- We Collect Umbrellas is a budget-friendly option located just five minutes from the old town.
- Hotel Luxe is a comfortable mid-range choice near the city center, boasting spacious rooms.
- Hotel Park is a highly-rated five-star establishment within 15 minutes’ walk from the Palace.
Whenever you travel to Split, you are sure to have a delightful time. Whether enjoying summer beach activities or experiencing the festive Christmas Market in winter, spring and fall provide wondrous opportunities to explore without long lines or inflated accommodation prices.
Prepare for your trip by arranging your flights and accommodation. This guide to the best things to do in Split will help you maximize your visit to this beautiful coastal city.
