15 Top Things To Do in Split, Croatia You’ll Never Forget

When most people plan a trip to Croatia, Dubrovnik tends to steal the limelight. But if you’re skipping Split, you’re missing out on one of the most dynamic, authentic, and exciting cities on the Adriatic coast. From Roman ruins to a vibrant, palm-lined promenade and unforgettable island-hopping adventures just a short day trip away, Split is the perfect destination for your next trip to Croatia. Whether you’re travelling Croatia solo, planning a full Croatian road trip, or want to spend a longer time exploring this charming city, there’s more than enough top things to do in Split to turn your visit into the highlight of your whole Croatia itinerary!

Is Split, Croatia Worth Visiting?

Split is absolutely worth visiting for its unique mix of the history and culture of its old town and the natural beauty of its beaches and surrounding islands. Unlike some tourist cities that can feel a bit like a museum, Split feels very real, with locals still living and working inside Diocletian’s Palace to this day. Split is also one of the best starting points for island day trips, exploring Croatia’s national parks, and exploring the Dalmatian Coast without the overwhelming crowds you’ll often find in Dubrovnik.

Split vs Dubrovnik: Which City Wins?

My honest answer? Both are incredible and worth visiting in their own rights – but they also both offer very different experiences.

Dubrovnik is the real showstopper. It’s visually stunning around every corner and walking the famous old city walls feels like stepping into a scene from a movie. But Dubrovnik can also feel extremely crowded, especially in peak season when cruise ship tourists flood the, already very narrow, streets.

Split, on the other hand, offers a more raw experience. It’s a working city through and through, that just so happens to be built on spectacular Roman foundations. You’ll get to experience more of the everyday Croatian lifestyle here.

So which one wins? Well that depends entirely on what kind of trip you’re after.

How to Get to Split from Dubrovnik

If you’re combining Split with a wider tour around Croatia, chances are you’ll be heading here from the charming old town of Dubrovnik. Travelling from Dubrovnik to Split is surprisingly easy and there are a number of different options you can take: renting a car, by bus, by ferry or by private transfer.

By Car: When travelling by car from Dubrovnik to Split, you have a choice of two routes. The inland, less scenic route is quicker, taking just under 3 hours. The entire journey on this road is 232 km or 144 miles. The coastal route is much more scenic, but takes longer at 3 hours 45 minutes and is often a lot busier. The coastal route does have less mileage though, at just 218 km or 135 miles. Whatever route you choose, be sure to use the Pelješac Bridge to avoid having to cross the border through Bosnia & Herzegovina near Neum.

By Private Transfer: If you prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private car but don’t want to drive yourself, booking a private transfer is ideal. While it is the most expensive option to travel between Dubrovnik and Split, a private transfer with a local expert driver will take the stress out of your travels.

By Bus: Arguably the most popular and also the most budget-friendly option to travel to Split from Dubrovnik is on the bus. Direct buses run multiple times a day between the two cities, taking between 4 to 5 hours, and offering incredible coastal views along the way. I used FlixBus for my trip and the ride, though long, was comfortable, with air conditioning and good WiFi. Just make sure you book early in peak season, as this route is popular and tickets can sell out.

By Ferry: If you’re visiting in peak season, the ferry is a great scenic alternative to travelling between the two cities by road. Jadrolinija, TP Line and Kapetan Luka offer daily routes between Dubrovnik and Split that take around 5-5.5 hours. It’s not the fastest route and it’s certainly not the cheapest route, but it’s definitely the most relaxing.

15 Top Things to Do in Split, Croatia You’ll Never Forget

1. Wander Through Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in Split – and for good reason. It is truly one of a kind in Europe and extremely well-preserved, dating back to the 4^th century. Diocletian’s Palace is also UNESCO World Heritage listed and a popular Game of Thrones filming location.

One of the most popular misconceptions tourists have about Diocletian’s Palace is what it actually is. You see, Diocletian’s Palace is not just one building to tick off your bucket list. Instead, the palace is a complex of buildings that encompass around half of Split’s Old Town. The most famous (and photographed,) part of the palace complex is Peristil Square, but don’t forget to explore the rest too!

Katie’s Top Tip: Go early in the morning or just after sunset to experience the beauty of this complex without the heavy crowds of day-trippers.

2. Climb Marjan Hill

If you’re wondering what to do in Split to escape the busyness of the city, the most popular choice is to climb up Marjan Hill. While only a few minutes from the city centre, the forested, 170m high Marjan Hill is peaceful and offers visitors the very best views in Split. This is, with good reason, one of the top things to do in Split for nature lovers and hikers.

Katie’s Top Tip: Wear good quality, comfortable shoes shoes, pack plenty of water and, if you can, head up the hill for golden hour for the very best lighting!

3. Get Lost in Split Old Town’s Stone Alleys

You could (and arguably should,) spend at least a few hours getting lost in Split old town’s alleys and side streets. In an old city as beautiful as Split, the only way to truly experience it is by ditching the map and allowing yourself to just walk. Split’s narrow alleys have something new to offer around every corner: beautiful stone buildings, quaint shops and cafes, and small, fairy tale squares.

Katie’s Top Tip: Ditch the map, even just for an hour, and instead let your feet be your guide. You never know what hidden gem you’ll stumble across!

4. Swim at Bačvice Beach

Bačvice Beach is a lot of local’s favourite spots in Split, and can be found just a 15 minute walk – along the promenade and past Split’s train station – from the bustling old town. The water is warm, shallow and perfect for swimming, while the golden sands are perfect for sunbathing. Bačvice Beach is one of the top things to do in Split if you want to enjoy a relaxing beach break without leaving the city.

Katie’s Top Tip: This beach is small and, especially in summer, very popular given its close location to the city. Because of this, I would recommend arriving early to select the perfect spot for your beach day.

5. Stroll Along the Riva Promenade

The Riva Promenade is where it all happens in Split. This seaside promenade is always buzzing with both local and tourists alike; enjoying the sunshine, getting in some exercise, people watching from a bench by the water, or enjoying a coffee or ice cream at one of the many cafes.

Katie’s Top Tip: This is a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise – plus the promenade is a lot quieter at this time of day too, if that’s more your vibe!

6. Visit St Duje’s Cathedral (The Cathedral of Saint Domnius)

The Cathedral of Saint Domnius (also known as St Duje’s Cathedral,) is said to be the oldest cathedral building in the world. It was originally Diocletian’s mausoleum and dates back to the year 350. You can choose to simply admire the external façade, including the cathedral’s wooden doors dating back to the year 1200, or you could climb the bell tower for panoramic views, stretching across Split’s rooftops to the sparkling Adriatic.

Katie’s Top Tip: The climb up the Campanile is steep and narrow, but the views are supposed to be incredible. As always, an early morning visit = fewer tourists to share the steps with!

7. Enjoy Local Dalmatian Cuisine

For my foodies, trying traditional Dalmatian Cuisine has probably long been on your culinary wish list, and exploring the local cuisine is one of the top things to do in Split in its own right. Sea food dishes are especially popular in Split, including black risotto, brudet (a seafood stew,) oysters and mussels. If fish isn’t your thing, you could also try local prosciutto, dirty makaruni (pasta in a beef sauce,) or soparnik (swiss chard, parsley and garlic, combined in a dough.)

Katie’s Top Tip: The best reviewed restaurants in Split for authentic Dalmatian Cuisine include Fife, Bokeria and Taverna Matejuska.

8. Take a Day Trip From Split to Krka National Park

Krka National Park is a must-do day trip for any visitor to Split. Located just 1.5 hours from from the city centre, this national park is home to waterfalls, lakes and charming wooden boardwalks. It’s widely known to be one of the very best day trips from Split, as it is easy to get to, affordable, and packed with absolutely breath-taking natural scenery.

To get to Krka National Park from Split, you can either drive yourself or join a guided tour from the city centre – there are plenty of companies that offer this all year round. I joined this full day tour from Split to Krka, which included transport to and from the national park and a panoramic boat ride to the pretty town of Skradin. Entry to the national park isn’t included, but the guide does sort out your tickets on your behalf.

Currently, tickets to enter Krka National Park cost 7 euros off peak (January – March, November, December,) 20 euros in mid-season (April, May, October,) and 40 euros in high season (June – August.)

Katie’s Top Tip: For the combination of good weather, autumn colours and lower entrance fees, I would recommend visiting in early to mid-October.

9. Hop on a Tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you have room in your itinerary for one more national park, Plitvice Lakes is the place to go – especially if you’re a nature lover. A day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Split is a much longer day than Krka National Park, but completely doable – and well worth it! With spectacular waterfalls, striking green pools and lakes, and a feel of walking a different planet altogether, Plitvice Lakes is, in my opinion, one of the very best places to visit in the whole of Croatia.

To get to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Split, you can either drive yourself or join a guided tour. I joined this full day guided tour, which includes transport to and from the national park, a guided walk around the sprawling network of lakes and waterfalls (so you don’t miss any of the best spots), a boat and electric train ride, plus entry to the national park itself.

Katie’s Top Tip: This is a very long day tour – around 12 hours in total. So bring plenty of snacks and water, wear good shoes, and avoid the summer season if you want to experience this natural beauty without the crowds.

10. Admire the Architecture in Republic Square

With its bright red buildings and grand arches, Republic Square feels like the perfect blend of Venice and Paris! Just a short walk off the Riva Promenade, this square is the perfect spot for some creative early morning photography or for enjoying people watching and a drink from one of the cafes that sit between the impressive archways.

Katie’s Top Tip: Visit in the morning light for the best photos and the least crowds – this is a very popular spot once late morning comes around!

11. Sail the Adriatic Sea From Split

Looking for a real once in a lifetime wow moment during your trip? If so, you have to book a sailing trip from Split. Whether you choose a full-day island hop by speedboat or a shorter sunset cruise, seeing the Dalmatian coast from the sea is an experience you’ll never forget.

During my trip to Split, I chose to go on a full day, 10 hour luxury speedboat tour to Hvar, Komiza on Vis Island, and the famous Blue Lagoon. Between the stops, there was plenty of time to relax on the boat, which has comfortable chairs and loungers for sunbathing. The Blue Lagoon costs extra and you transfer onto a smaller boat with an expert guide to enter the lagoon – which is stunning and well worth the hype!

During the tour, there is also time for a short, independent walk in the beautiful town of Komiza on Vis island, as well as a longer stop for sightseeing and a late lunch in picturesque Hvar. Finally, the tour offers a silent sail around the spectacular Pakleni Islands for some incredible photo opportunities.

Katie’s Top Tip: For anyone who (like me,) adores photography and doesn’t want to spend the day getting soaked on a speedboat, unable to take photos, the small group tour I chose is well worth the extra cost. While the boat is technically still a speedboat, I never once got wet. It was a much more relaxing experience, and I was safely able to use my camera throughout the whole day.

12. Channel Your Inner Roman in Peristil Square

As I mentioned earlier in this guide, Peristil Square is the most well-known and most photographed part of Diocletian’s Palace, making it well worth a visit during your trip to Split. Once the ceremonial heart of the Palace, Peristil Square is now a lively meeting spot, surrounded by towering Roman columns.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re staying nearby, be sure to visit Peristil Square at night when it’s lit up and the crowds thin. It’s a whole different atmosphere to during the day!

13. Hunt For Game of Thrones Filming Locations

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll be thrilled to know that Split – not just Dubrovnik – was a major filming location for the series. And you can find most of these filming locations centrally located, within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. The narrow stone streets of Split old town famously doubled as the streets of Meereen, while Diocletian’s Cellars were transformed into dungeons for the series. You can also find an official Game of Thrones museum here in the city.

Katie’s Top Tip: You don’t need a tour to find the filming locations scattered throughout the city, but if you want the full Game of Thrones experience and all of the insider knowledge, then this 1.5 hour walking tour comes highly rated. It includes a full guided tour of all of the city’s top Game of Thrones filming locations, a photo on the Iron Throne, entrance into Diocletian’s cellars, and a visit to the official fan shop.

14. Watch the Sunset Over the Adriatic

Sunsets in Split are something else, and the very best places to watch the sunset in Split are from the water, along the Riva Promenade, or from the top of Marjan Hill. The golden glow over the sea as the sun dips below the masts of the boats bobbing in the harbour, on its final descent below the horizon, is a truly magical sight to see in Split.

Katie’s Top Tip: Climb up to the Marjan viewpoint, find a bench by the water along the Riva Promenade or take to the water in a boat for the very best view of the sunset.

15. Discover Trogir on a Quick Day Trip

The charming town of Trogir is often referred to as Split’s little sister. This true Croatia hidden gem is much quieter than Split, but just as stunning. It’s also only 30-minutes away from the city centre, making it the easiest day trip from Split on this list. It’s a great escape if you’re wanting a slower pace after exploring the bustling streets of Split. Plus, it also gives you a glimpse into more of Croatia’s Venetian influence.

These are the best things to see in Trogir:

• North Gate
• Cipiko Palace
• St. Lawrence’s Cathedral
• Trogir Clock Tower
• The Church of St. Peter
• The Church and Monastery of St. Dominic
• St. Michael Monastery Church
• Kula sv. Marka Fortress
• Kamerlengo Castle
• Trogir Waterfront Promenade

To walk around all of these sites from the bus station or car park takes around 20 minutes and is very flat and easy, although you’ll of course want to spend longer taking photos and getting lost down the many charming side streets.

How to get to Trogir from Split

Getting to Trogir from Split is an easily doable day trip by car, bus or guided tour. Let’s break each option down:

By Car: Getting to Trogir from Split with a car is the most flexible choice for this day trip, and takes between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking in Trogir can be found in the T1 or T2 parking bays, close to the old town North Gate.

By Bus: Getting from Split to Trogir by bus takes between 30-45 minutes. The bus leaves from Split bus station and arrives at Trogir bus station, which is located just a few steps from Trogir old town’s North Gate. At the time of writing, the bus ticket costs around 3.79 euros one way (although there are also slower services that are a bit cheaper.) You can compare current prices, view the timetable and book your ticket online here.

By Guided Tour: If you’re interested in the history and culture of the area, then a guided tour led by an experienced local guide would be perfect for you. While it is the most expensive way to get to Trogir, you’re paying for the experience and the knowledge. This popular half-day trip from Split combines two walking tours: one of Split’s old town and the other through the town of Trogir. You will also have around one hour of free time in Trogir after your tour to revisit your favourite spots!

Katie’s Top Tip: Go in the late afternoon and, if you have your own transport, be sure to stay for dinner by the marina. It’s the perfect golden-hour escape!

Let’s Wrap up These Top Things To Do in Split!

Split is one of those rare places that delivers pretty much everything you could possibly wish for from a seaside escape – ancient ruins and quaint old town streets, golden sandy beaches and the sparkling sea. And while it might not have the polished vibe of Dubrovnik, it has a much grittier heart and soul that comes from knowing that the city is truly lived in. So, whether you’re a first-timer planning a Croatia itinerary to remember or already head-over-heels for the Dalmatian Coast and planning your next trip, Split is a destination that definitely deserves your time, as these 15 top things to do in Split prove.

What would you do first in Split? Wander the charming streets of Diocletian’s Palace? People watch on the Riva Promenade at golden hour? Or take a day trip to nearby Trogir or Krka National Park? Drop your must-do’s in the comments –  I’d love to hear from you!

Read More Croatia Travel Guides:

• How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• 15 Top Things To Do in Split, Croatia You’ll Never Forget
• 13 Croatia Hidden Gems to Escape the Crowds

Share These Top Things To Do in Split: