The Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia

As the second-largest city in Croatia, Split is a must-visit destination to include in your itinerary. Here are my recommendations for the ideal duration of your trip and top things to do in Split.

How long should you stay in split?

For an immersive experience of Old Town Split’s highlights, I recommend staying for at least two nights, dedicating a full day to exploration. 

If time is limited, one night can work well, especially if you have a substantial portion of the day to spend in the city. Keep in mind that if you plan day trips to nearby islands, you’ll need to add extra time to your stay.

Where should you stay in split?

Our stay in Old Town enhanced our experience significantly. While options outside the city gates are available, I highly recommend staying within Old Town for an authentic experience. There’s a plethora of Airbnb and hotel choices to suit every preference.

During our visit, we chose Mint Luxury Rooms, which provided a beautiful room, responsive hosts, and complimentary breakfast at the adjacent restaurant.

what are the top things to do in split?

Explore old town and Diocletian's palace

Old Town Split

Take leisurely strolls through the ancient architecture, soaking in the city’s charm. Wander through the historic gates, explore the palace, and stop at local eateries for a taste of Croatian cuisine.

join a guided walking tour

Iron Gate

Gain insights into Split’s rich history by joining a guided walking tour. We found this experience enriching, learning fascinating details about locations we had already explored independently. 

enjoy the riva promenade

Promenade

The Riva Promenade offers a picturesque setting outside the city gates. Explore waterfront restaurants, marinas, and enjoy scenic views of the Adriatic Sea.

Hike marjan hill

Marjan Hill

For panoramic views of Split, embark on a hike up Marjan Hill. Though it involves climbing steps, the breathtaking view at the top is worth the effort. Navigate to Marjan Hill Stairs for the starting point.

Visit saint domnius bell tower

Saint Domnius Bell Tower

While we missed this opportunity due to Sunday closures, climbing the Saint Domnius Bell Tower is highly recommended for panoramic city views.

relax at a nearby beach

Beach

If time permits, unwind at one of Split’s beaches. Bacvice Beach is convenient, or venture slightly further to discover the beauty of Kasjuni Beach.

Take day trips to nearby islands

Hvar

Extend your adventures by exploring nearby islands like Hvar (see blog post on Hvar here), Brac, Paklinski Islands, or Solta. These day trips offer unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

discover krka national park

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Venture outside Split to Krka National Park, located near Skradin. Explore waterfalls, nature trails, and consider different entry options such as hiking or taking a ferry. Allocate around 3 hours for a fulfilling experience at Krka National Park, with the option to explore charming Skradin if time allows.