Split, Croatia: 15 Things to do in Split – travel guide

Thanks to its long history, crystal clear sea and developing gastronomy, Split is an ideal destination for sightseers, sun worshippers and gourmets. In this travel guide we will share our tips for visiting and having a perfect holiday in Split and present the most beautiful places, beaches and things to do in Split, Croatia.

The article also includes a map where we have marked all the places mentioned in this travel guide to holidays in Split. You can download and edit the map as you wish.

Things to do in Split, Croatia: Best places and beaches to visit

1. Heart of Split: Diocletian’s Palace

No trip to Split, Croatia would be complete without a visit to Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Split.

The imposing palace complex of Diocletian’s Palace was built in the 3rd century AD and covers an area of approximately 31 000 square metres. It is one of the best preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world.

Inside its walls, you can wander through a labyrinth of narrow streets, courtyards and historic buildings that house shops, restaurants and bars. You enter the complex through one of four gates – the Iron, Copper, Gold or Silver Gate.

You can also visit the underground halls beneath the palace to see the ancient foundations and learn more.

The most interesting part of Diocletian’s Palace is the Peristil, the central square surrounded by colonnades, which in the past served as the main entrance to the imperial apartments.

Admission to Diocletian’s Palace in Split

Admission to Diocletian’s Palace is free. You can walk freely in the streets that represent the old town of Split. And this all day and night.

Count on the fact that in high season there are a lot of tourists. Even in the late hours, when the central part of the palace is beautifully lit. If you want to enjoy the place without tourists, come early in the morning.

The entrance fee is payable upon entering the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the Bell Tower or the Temple of Jupiter (see other tips for sightseeing in Split). You can buy tickets separately for individual seats or choose a combined ticket.

Combination tickets are colour coded (blue, red, green, purple) and include different combinations of seats in Diocletian’s Palace. I recommend choosing the green or purple ticket, as both include the bell tower, which is one of the biggest attractions in Split.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office opposite the cathedral.

2. Cathedral of St. Domnius

The Cathedral of Saint Domnius is part of Diocletian’s Palace and forms the focal point of Peristil Square. It was originally built as the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian and later converted into a church.

Entrance to the cathedral is chargeable – see above for information on admission to Diocletian’s Palace.

3. Bell tower – view of Split

The Bell Tower is one of the best places to visit in Split. You will find it again in Diocletian’s Palace. Admission to the bell tower only is 7 €.

The access to the top can be challenging for some and I would not recommend it for young children or those who are afraid of heights or tight spaces. The stairs are steel, newly renovated, but can be narrow and relatively high.

4. Temple of Jupiter

The Temple of Jupiter is another interesting place in the Diocletian’s Palace complex. A well-preserved Roman temple dedicated to the king of the gods. You can also visit the underground halls beneath the palace to see the ancient foundations and learn more.

If you are interested in the ancient period around Split, don’t miss a visit to the Archaeological Museum. It is the oldest museum in Croatia, exhibiting artefacts from the prehistoric, Greek and Roman periods.

5. Riva Promenade

We move beyond the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. The Riva is the city’s waterfront promenade, which stretches from Diocletian’s Palace to Matejuska harbour. It is full of tourists, but on the other hand it offers a great view of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby islands.

The Riva is lined with cafés and bars where you can soak up the local atmosphere with a drink in hand.

6. Republic Square

Trg Republike is a beautiful, open square that opens onto the Riva promenade. It is flanked by colourful houses with arcades housing restaurants and hotels.

7. Old Town

Wander the streets of the old town, which includes both Diocletian’s Palace and the part of Split west of the palace. The centre is Narodni trg Square with the Town Hall from the 15th century and a bell tower with a clock.

8. Marjan Park – view of Split

What are we going to say – the old town of Split is beautiful, but as beautiful as it is, it is full of tourists. On Marjan Hill you can take a break from the bustling city.

It is a wooded park on the western edge of Split, just a short walk from the old town. A green oasis with walking trails and panoramic views of the city and coastline.

The first one, called Prva vidilica na Marjana, is a popular viewpoint. You have to climb 300 steps to reach it and the views are good, although they are somewhat obscured by the growing trees. The higher you go, the better the views will be. And the best of all will be at the highest point of the Telegrin summit, where there is a neat cobbled lookout with a cross.

There are smaller churches in the park and one is even built into the rock.

9. Salona

Salona represents the remains of a Roman city that was located here 2000 years ago. You can walk freely among the excavations and ruins, not many people visit here.

Salona is located about a quarter of an hour from Split in Solin, which can be reached by bus or car. It is located just off the main road to Trogir and you can park for free right next to the Salona.

Admission is 8 € (4 € for children).

Split beaches

Thanks to its location on the Adriatic coast, Split offers beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. There is parking at all of them, but you can also get here by bus from the centre of Split.

Check out the best beaches in Split:

Pebble beach Žnjan

The popular Znjan town beach is ideal for those looking for a complete backdrop. You’ll find everything here – cafes, bars, water sports and attractions, changing rooms, toilets and a large enough free car park. There are also several apartments and hotels near the beach.

The beach is quite large and despite its location it is not overcrowded. It is suitable for families with children.

Sandy beach Bačvice

Bačvice beach is just a short walk from the town centre. The only sandy beach with shallow sea and lively atmosphere, where there are beach bars, restaurants and facilities for water sports.

The beach is one of the most popular beaches in Split, so it’s best to arrive early to secure the best spot.

And what makes Bačvice beach unique? It is here that the game of picigin was created. This is played in shallow water, where you and the other players try to keep the ball in the air without using your hands.

☞ Get inspired by the things to do in Croatia (including a map and practical information).

Pebble beaches Obojena, Kaštelet and Ježinac

About a 25-minute walk from the centre of Split, the smaller pebble beaches of Obojena, Kaštelet and Ježinac are located smaller pebble beaches of Obojena, Kaštelet and Ježinac. They don’t have as good facilities as the beaches in the centre, but there is a beach bar and showers. There are sharp rocks at the entrance, so I do not recommend the beach with small children.

The beaches can be reached from the centre by a pleasant walk or by car (there is a larger free parking lot). The advantage is that the beaches are not overcrowded.

Kašjuni pebble beach – the best beaches in Split

Kašjuni beach is situated in a bay with beautifully clear water. It is further away from the centre, but again it is easily accessible by car, bus or bike. The beach is very popular, so you need to arrive in the morning to have somewhere to park.

At Kašjuni beach you will find all the facilities – refreshments, toilets and you can also rent a deck chair.

Things to do in Split: Day trips

Take a boat trip to the surrounding islands, walk around the waterfalls or visit the historic towns. Split is a great base for exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Island of Brac and Zlatni rat beach

Catamarans and ferries regularly sail from Split Catamarans and ferries, which is famous for its pebble beach Zlatni rat. It is unique in that it is constantly changing shape due to the local wind.

In high season, expect the place to be really crowded and prices to be inflated. If you want to enjoy a place without people, arrive early in the morning.

☞ Are you planning a holiday to one of the Croatian islands? Here you will find tips on the most beautiful islands in Croatia, including information on how to get to the islands (ferries, ports, etc.) and downloadable maps.

Fortress Klis

From where to enjoy the breathtaking view of Split and the Adriatic Sea that envelops it? Klis Fortress is located on a mountainside just 12 km from Split and the views are some of the best.

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you might find the fort familiar. I’ll give you a hint – Denerys showed up with her army in the fourth row.

Admission to the fortress is 10 € and it is open daily from 9:00-19:00. Check the official website for up-to-date information before you visit.

Tip: Near the Klis Fortress there is a Dalmatian restaurant called Perlica. Excellent food (especially the lamb) and cosy atmosphere.

Blue cave on the island of Bišovo

One of the most beautiful places around Split is the Blue Cave (Modra Špilja) on the almost uninhabited island of Bišovo.

It’s an amazing experience, to take a guided boat ride into the cave. The trip will take half a day to a day depending on whether you plan to visit other islands around Split.

Historical town of Trogir – things to do around Split

Trogir is a beautiful historic town, located just half an hour from Split (by car or direct bus). Visit the fortified castle from the 15th century Kaštel Kamerlengo, walk the cobbled streets of the old town and discover why Trogir has earned its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Krka National Park

Would you like to visit the Plitvice Lakes, but they seem too out of hand? Krka National Park is a great alternative. Walk along the wooden walkways around the main waterfalls of Skradinski Buk and enjoy the view of the lake and the lush nature in the surroundings. And where you can’t get on the sidewalk, you take a boat.

The easiest way to visit Krka National Park is to join the a day trip from Split. Excursions are organised by local agencies, which can take you to other places around Split or give you a taste of the local cuisine.

Food and drink: What to taste in Split?

Split cuisine is a combination of traditional Dalmatian cuisine and modern gastronomy. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as seafood, olive oil and seasonal produce are the basis.

Try traditional dishes such as pašticada (slow-cooked beef in a rich sauce), crni risotto (black risotto with calamari) or peka (meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid over hot coals).

For the best dining experience in Split, I recommend visiting one of Split’s konobas, traditional taverns serving homemade food in a cosy atmosphere. There’s an excellent konoba Laganini in the centre, but if you walk along Ulica ban Mladenova west of the old town, you’ll come across several others (and not just here).

If you prefer a more modern take on traditional cuisine, visit Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar or Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar for a taste of contemporary Croatian cuisine.

With meals, you can sample some of the Croatian wines produced in the nearby Dalmatian hinterland and islands. Popular wines include the red wines Plavac Mali and Dingač, as well as the white wines Pošip and Grk.

Do you like markets with local vendors where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables and local produce? Visit the Green Market (Pazar) east of the old town or the Fish Market (Peskarija) west of the old town.

How to get to Split, Croatia?

Flights to Split

Arrival by airport Split

Split Airport (SPU), also known as Resnik Airport, is the main gateway for international and domestic flights into the city.

It is located about 20 km west of Split, at the exit of the town of Kaštela.

Major airlines such as Croatia Airlines, Lufthansa, easyJet and Ryanair fly to Split from some European cities (Vienna, London, Berlin and others). In the main tourist season (May to October), the connections are more frequent. Check out the current flights to Split here.

Upon arrival at Split Airport, the city centre can be reached by airport bus, local bus, taxi or rental car. The price for a direct bus from the airport to Split is 8 €. Buses stop at stop no. 1 in front of the terminal. More information about the airport bus to Split can be found here.

Arrival by airport Zadar

The second option is the airport near Zadar, where airlines fly also from Prague or Nuremberg (especially in high season). Check out the current flights to Zadar here.

From the airport you can then take the airport bus to the bus station in 20 minutes (cost € 5).

Buses run from the station to Split several times a day. The drive takes about 3 hours and costs around 16 €. See here for current prices and timetables for buses Zadar-Split.

A quicker option is to rent a car directly at Zadar airport. You can pick up your car right at the airport. You can book here to get the best price.

All insurance is included, so there are no unpleasant surprises on the spot. The drive from Zadar Airport to Split takes 1.5 hours.

By car to Split, Croatia

Roads in Croatia are generally well maintained and well signposted. In high season, be prepared for possible traffic jams.

Petrol and diesel prices vary from country to country. The current fuel prices can be found at this link.

Toll in Croatia

Croatia has a toll system on its motorways, operated by Hrvatske Autoceste and Autocesta Rijeka-Zagreb (ARZ). Here is a map of the toll sections where you can calculate the toll.

Tolls are calculated based on the distance travelled and the category of vehicle. You can pay in cash, by credit/debit card or through the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC, ENC in Croatian).

If you are using an electronic toll collection system, just drive through the marked ENC lane and the toll will be automatically deducted from your account. To use electronic toll collection, you must purchase an ENC device – here is a list of the points of sale.

The advantage is that you don’t have to wait at the toll gate. Plus, you’ll get a discount on tolls.

Speed limits on roads in Croatia

• In built-up areas, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h.
• On open roads outside urban areas, the maximum speed is 90 km/h.
• On expressways (two-lane roads with off-ramps), the maximum speed limit is 110 km/h.
• The speed limit on motorways is 130 km/h.

☞ How to protect yourself when travelling by car: Auto insurance provides you with car insurance to get your car repaired, towed to a garage, transported back home or a replacement vehicle if needed. They will arrange and communicate everything for you.

Parking in Split

If you’re driving or renting a car, you’re probably wondering where to park in Split (unless you’re staying here). Parking in the city centre is very limited, especially in high season. In addition, much of the old town is pedestrian only.

This car park is located close to the centre:

• Split City Parking Garage | Garage Firule – approx. 15 minutes walk to the centre
• Outdoor Parking Split – a short walk from the city centre, next to the train station and the port
• Outdoor Split Parking – 10 minutes from the centre, but often crowded
• Outdoor parking at Parkiralište Bijankinijeva – 10 minutes east of the centre; good price considering the location, but may be full soon

See a clear map of where to park in Split. Just enter your city and parking options will come up, including approximate prices.

You can pay for parking with cash, card (not all machines allow this – check) or the Parking M-Split mobile app.

☞ Read our detailed guide on how to drive to Croatia (fees on the way, route, map and other tips).

Transport in Split

Split is a compact and pedestrian-friendly city where most of the main sights are within walking distance. The historic centre, including Diocletian’s Palace, is a car-free zone, making it a pleasure to explore on foot.

The most common type of transport in Split and its surroundings is buses. These are complemented by taxis, Uber and bike rental companies.

Buses

For more distant places, such as Marjan Hill or the beaches, you can use the city buses that connect the centre with the various neighbourhoods and suburbs.

Split and its surroundings are divided into zones for bus transport purposes (see picture). The town itself falls within Zone 1.

A one-way ticket in Split valid for 60 minutes costs €1 and a driver’s ticket costs €2. Prices are half price for children 6-10 years old and are valid for up to 135 minutes. You can buy tickets from ticket machines, newsagents or shops at the station.

Tickets are also available for 24 hours or 72 hours. With these you can travel without limitations. The prices then vary depending on whether you plan to ride only in 1 zone (i.e. in one city or area – see colour-coded in the picture above) or in all zones (e.g. planning trips from Split to Omis, Trogir or Solin).

For 2024, the prices for multi-day tickets are as follows:

• 24 hours for 1 zone for 4 € and for all zones 8 €
• 72 hours for 1 zone for 10 € and for all zones 20 €
• 7-day for 1 zone 20 € and for all zones 40 €

You can also use buses when travelling around Split – frequent bus services connect Split with cities such as Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Zadar and Sibenik, as well as international cities such as Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Belgrade (Serbia).

Bus travel is affordable and many buses also offer air conditioning and free WIFI.

The central bus station is located a short walk from the centre by the port of Split. Buses from Split airport also stop here. For information on bus connections and timetables from Split, see here.

Rent a bike

The bike is a great way to enjoy Split from a different angle. You can go around the harbour, coastal promenades up to the Marjan peninsula.

There are many stations around Split where you can rent a bike. See the map and more information about prices and how to rent a bike in Split.

Trains

Split is connected to the Croatian rail network, but train travel to the city is generally slower and less frequent than bus travel. The main train line connects Split with the Croatian capital Zagreb, and several daily services take approximately 6 hours.

The train station is located next to the central bus station a short walk from the port.

Ferries from Split

From the port of Split, you can also reach other areas around the city – the islands of Hvar, Vis, Brac or Zadar and Dubrovnik in the south of Croatia. The ferry station is located in the port of Split, near the city centre and Diocletian’s Palace.

There are several companies operating here, but Jadrolinija offers the most connections. On their website, you can see where to go from Split, including timetables, prices and how to buy tickets online (or you can buy tickets on the spot). Jadrolinija is complemented by other companies.

There are ferries, which are also used for transporting vehicles, and catamarans for transporting people.

Here you can search clearly ferries in one place .

Prices in Split, Croatia

Split is an affordable destination, especially compared to some other European cities. However, prices can still vary depending on the time of year and location.

Below are indicative prices you can expect in Split:

Accommodation: prices in shared rooms in hostels start at around €14 per night, while budget hotels or guesthouses can cost €27-54 per night in a double room.

Mid-range hotels and private apartments typically range from €54-108 per night, while luxury hotels and luxury vacation rentals can cost up to €135 per night.

Food: Eating out in Split can be quite affordable and offers a wide range of options, with something to suit everyone’s budget.

A meal in a cheap restaurant or fast food outlet costs around €5-10. Mid-range restaurants usually charge €11-27 for a three-course meal per person. In upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments, prices exceed €34 per person. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can shop at local markets for good prices.

Things to do in Split, Croatia – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map with tips on things to do in Split, Croatia. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in the travel guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.

What is the weather and when to visit Split in Croatia?

Split has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you’re looking for warm, sunny weather, Split is the place to be.

Let’s take a look at what weather you can expect in Split throughout the year:

Summer (June to August): Summer in Split is hot and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 24 °C to 30 °C. During the peak summer months, temperatures can occasionally rise above 30 °C. Precipitation is scarce during this period, with July usually being the driest month.

Summer is also the main season in Split. The beaches and the centre are crowded and prices are rising.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Split is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (you can still enjoy swimming temperatures in early September). It rains more often during this period (November is the rainiest month).

In autumn, the number of tourists decreases and you can enjoy the streets of the old town without crowds. Autumn is also an ideal time for excursions around Split (just watch out for ferry and catamaran schedules, which don’t run that often).

Winter (December to February): Winters in Split are mild and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 13°C. Snowfalls are rare, and it usually rains more often in the city during this period.

Spring (March to May): Spring in Split is characterized by gradually rising temperatures and increasing sunshine. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, making it a pleasant time to explore the city and its surroundings. Rainfall decreases during this period and May is generally the sunniest month.

Is travel insurance to Croatia necessary?

Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover any necessary medical treatment due to illness or accident during your stay in Croatia.

However, the insurance does not cover any deductibles (for example, for hospitalisation, dental treatment or medicines).

Travel insurance covers this deductible, as well as situations such as trip cancellation, loss of luggage or liability insurance. Travel insurance will thus comprehensively take care of your safety while travelling. Take a look at travel insurance here.

Tips on how to enjoy Split

• Wear comfortable shoes: Cobbled streets and uneven surfaces are typical of Split’s old town.
• Use public transport: Split’s public transport, mainly buses, is reliable and affordable. You can also take the bus to the more distant beaches and you don’t have to deal with the fast-filling car parks.
• Explore at least one island in the area: Hvar, Brac, Vis, each of the nearby islands offers something a little different. But they all have beautiful beaches and charming towns in common.
• Book accommodation well in advance: During high season, accommodation in Split fills up quickly, especially in popular areas such as the old town or near popular beaches. You can also secure a better price by booking in advance.
• Try the local cuisine: Croatian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavours. Be sure to try local specialities such as peka, pasticada and black risotto, as well as fresh seafood and local wine.
• Bring cash: While most businesses in Split accept credit cards, some smaller businesses and market vendors can only accept cash.
• Croatians are known for their hospitality and warmth. They are generally welcoming and friendly to guests and may even invite you into their homes for a meal or a drink (this is usually not the case in tourist areas and larger cities).
• Learn a few Croatian phrases. The locals always appreciate it, wherever you are in the world.
  • Hello – Dobar dan
  • Goodbye – Doviđenja
  • Please – Molim
  • Thank you – Hvala vam

This has been our detailed travel guide to Split, Croatia and things to do in Split. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about Croatia

CROATIA: Get inspired by the best destinations to go to the sea in Croatia or check out our travel guide to the Makarska Riviera.

Read our detailed guide on how to drive to Croatia (fees along the way, route, map and other tips).

Are you planning a holiday to one of the Croatian islands? Here you will find tips on the most beautiful islands in Croatia, including information on how to get to the islands (ferries, ports, etc.) and downloadable maps. Looking for inspiration? Here are the best things to do in Croatia (including a map and practical information).

GREECE: Or are you more interested in Greece? The Best things to do in Greece we share in the next article.

ITALY: There are so many beautiful places in Italy – we’ve listed the things to do in Italy in a separate article.

SPAIN: Get inspired with tips on best things to do in Spain. From beaches, historic towns to beautiful nature. Mallorca is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain – see photos and tips on things to do in Mallorca.