Split Croatia, is one of those places that effortlessly captures you with its stunning blend of ancient history and modern charm. Whether you’re transported back in time while wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old Town or cruising on a boat in the Adriatic Sea sipping a cocktail – Split has something for everyone.
Split is the perfect base for your Croatia adventures, and I’ll give you my recommendation for the best daytrips from Split.
Let’s dive into the best ways to explore this ancient city and make the most of your time in Split!
Split Croatia Map
Split Croatia, located along the Adriatic coast, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in central Dalmatia, Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and a perfect starting point for exploring the stunning coastline and nearby islands. The city’s compact Old Town and stunning views from Marjan Hill make it a must-see destination. From ancient Roman architecture to beautiful beaches and lively promenades, Split is a place where history and modernity blend effortlessly.
What to Do in Split Croatia
There’s plenty to do in Split, Croatia, whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or just soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Old Town Split Croatia
Split’s Old Town is a living museum, rich in history and charm. Within this compact area, you’ll find significant landmarks, cozy cafés, and narrow streets filled with stories from over 1,700 years of living history. It’s a rather small area but well worth a stroll.
Diocletian’s Palace
One of Split’s most famous landmarks is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 4th century. Originally built as the retirement home for Roman Emperor Diocletian – the only Roman emperor who voluntarily withdrew from power – this impressive structure is still the heart of Split today.
Normally when thinking of a former palace, it’s a separate building which you can visit, but what you probably didn’t know is that Diocletian’s Palace is actually the entire old town of Split where the bell tower of the cathedral (tallest bell tower in Split) is its very center. So the buildings that house residences, cafes and shops today, are all technically part of the palace.
Fun fact: Daenerys’ Throne Room (and also where dragons are kept) in the Game of Thrones series is filmed in the Diocletian’s Palace cellar in Split Croatia.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Located within Diocletian’s Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius is a must-visit. Originally built as the Emperor’s mausoleum, this stunning cathedral is one of the oldest in the world. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Adriatic Sea.
Marjan Park
For those who want to enjoy nature without leaving the city, Marjan Park is a peaceful retreat just a short walk from the Old Town. This green hill offers hiking and cycling paths, along with stunning views of the city, the coast, and the nearby islands. Marjan is perfect for a relaxing afternoon of exploration and a panoramic sunset.
Boat tours
If you’re not on a boat in Split then you’re not doing it right (or like me just a little overwhelmed with the touristic vibe haha) – nevertheless if I were to go back, I’d opt for a small boat going to the Blue lagoon.
Includes:
- Lunch & unlimited drinks!
- Stand up paddle
- Snorkeling equipment
Duration: 8 hours
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance
Day Trips
Split’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or beach relaxation, there’s a day trip from Split that will suit your interests.
Blue Cave Tour from Split Croatia
One of the most popular excursions from Split is the Blue Cave tour. Located on the island of Biševo, the Blue Cave (Modra Špilja in Croatian) is known for its mesmerizing blue light that fills the cave when sunlight passes through the water. Tours from Split typically combine this spectacular natural phenomenon with visits to nearby islands, making it a memorable day trip.
Cave and 5 Islands boat tour from Split
Duration: 10.5 hours
Entrance fee to the blue cave: €13
Limited to 12 participants
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Split Croatia to Plitvice Lakes National Park
A day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. This UNESCO-listed park is famous for its stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and wooden walking trails. I loved my time in Plitvice and highly recommend visiting to anyone who has the time!
Duration: 11 hours
- English speaking tour guide
- Transportation by bus or van
- Panoramic boat ride
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Split Croatia to Krka National Park
Located a bit over an hour from Split, Krka is another National Park filled with beautiful waterfalls and nature-trails. You can choose to visit independently or join a guided tour, which often includes transportation, a panoramic boat cruise, and free time to explore the park’s main attractions like Skradinski Buk, the largest travertine waterfall in Europe. I
wouldn’t recommend going alone – read why HERE.
Split: Krka Waterfalls Trip with Boat Cruise and Swimming
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Duration: 9 hours
Skip the ticket line
Live english tour guide
INCLUDES: Free time in Primošten!
Ferry from Split to Hvar Island
The ferry from Split to Hvar Island is one of the most scenic ways to explore the Adriatic. Hvar is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It’s the perfect day trip if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Once on the island, enjoy the charming old town, stunning beaches, and the historic Hvar Fortress overlooking the sea.
FAQ
Is Split Croatia Worth Visiting?
I’m going to be brutally honest and say no. I am a bit biased, as I only spent two days here and didn’t go on any boat tours or joined the nightlife,which to be fair, are two of the things the city is best known for. Everyone is going to tell you that Split and Dubrovnik are the most touristic cities in Croatia, so set your expectations accordingly. If you’re looking to see a historical stone town, Split Croatia is NOT the place to go. But if you want to have a fun time, enjoying the water but also have a little cultural insight then Split is definitely for you!
How Many Days in Split is Enough?
For a visit to Split including at least one day by boat – three to four days will be perfect. However, if you want to use Split as a base and take additional day trips to Hvar Island or Plitvice Lakes, consider staying for six+ days. Or alternatively stay on Hvar island.
Is Split Croatia Expensive?
The short answer is yes. I was shocked to see that an iced latte is €5… as mentioned Split and Dubrovnik are the most touristic cities in Croatia, so set your budget accordingly. It is of course possible to have a great visit without breaking the bank. I did just fine by staying in a hostel with a kitchen so I could cook my own meals, which significantly brought my spendings down.
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