Things to Do in Split, Croatia: 20 Must-See Sights & Activities

Are you planning a visit to Split, Croatia, and wondering what to do? Look no further than this list outlining 20 things to do in Split, Croatia.

This beautiful and historic town on the Dalmatian Coast is brimming with things to do and activities.

We loved our time in Split so much after enjoying a glorious week there recently.

That is what prompted us to create this list of the best things to do in Split, Croatia.

We were mesmerized by the city’s history and seaside charm.

As Croatia’s second largest city, Split is full of hidden gems and is a great home base if you are planning day trip from Split.

From the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace to the tranquil hideaways of Marjan Forest Park and the sun-kissed Adriatic islands, we’ve streamlined your search for the ultimate Split adventure.

Ready to explore? Let’s dive in to this fabulous coastal city.

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Key Takeaways

History abounds throughout the city thanks to the dominating presence of Diocletian’s Palace.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Split when you explore the outdoor areas like Marjan Forest Park.
Enjoy unique experience when you enjoy Croatian food and wines.
Go island hopping to experience all that the Dalmatian Coast has to offer.

Discover the Majesty of Diocletian’s Palace

The well-preserved historical site of Diocletian’s Palace tops the list of things to do in Split.

The 1,700 year old palace is easy to visit as it is one of the top attractions in the city.

This UNESCO World Heritage site with its ancient gates and narrow streets offers a lively atmosphere while being surround by ancient history.

Here are some of the highlights of a visit to Diocletian’s Palace:

The Peristyle: A Living Museum

The central square at the heart of the palace is the Peristyle.

In ancient times, people would gather here to hear the emperor speak. Today, the Peristyle serves as a gathering points for live performances like the Split Summer Festival.

We especially loved visiting the Peristyle at night when the area was illuminated with lights.

Discover the Palace Cellars

Fans of the popular HBO show, Game of Thrones, will recognize the palace cellars immediately.

Take time to explore the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace to feel like you have ben transported back in time.

Once originally used for storage for food an wine, the cellars of the palace are among the best-preserved ancient complexes of their kind in the world.

Today, visitors can enter through the Bronze Gate or from the Peristyle, to explore the cellars, which are mostly used as a trading area for unique souvenirs.

Ascend the Saint Domnius Bell Tower

The Saint Domnius Bell Tower was originally built to be Diocletian’s mausoleum, but was later transformed into a church and bell tower.

The church, which is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world, remains in its original structure and is well worth a visit before ascending up to the top of the bell tower.

Of course, to make it to the top, you are going to have to climb 180 steps on a fairly open staircare, but your reward for the ascent is incredible views of the town of Split.

Embrace Nature at Marjan Forest Park

Often dubbed as the ‘lungs of the city’, Marjan Forest Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

It offers trails suitable for all ages and caters to a diverse range of outdoor activities, including:

walking
running
cycling
swimming

Rich in cultural and historical significance, the park features:

A small zoo
An ancient Jewish cemetery
Historical elements like cave dwellings
The Mestrovic Museum, honoring the famed local sculptor.

Soak Up the Sun at Split’s Beaches

Split’s location on the beautiful Adriatic Coast means that adding a visit to Split’s beaches, especially during the summer months, has to be on your list of things to do in Split.

One of the most popular beaches in the city is Bacvice Beach, so be ready to share if you choose to visit Bacvice Beach!

Žnjan Beach stands out as the largest of Split’s shores, offering white pebbles and a wide variety of amenities, including restaurants and watersports equipment.

For a more secluded and tranquil experience, Kaštelet Beach provides a rocky shore close to the city center that attracts swimmers and kayakers.

Island Hopping Adventure

The adventure of island hopping around Split is a must-do experience and makes for the perfect day trip from Split.

Explore the famous islands near Split, including Hvar, with its famous beach and historic 13th-century sites.

The other nearby islands of Pakleni Islands and Brač, known for the iconic Zlatni Rat beach, are also great day trips.

Taking a boat tour of the Croatian islands is a great addition to your Croatia trip itinerary and one of the perfect day trips!

Of course, you won’t want to miss the Blue Cave on Biševo Island, or the quiet serenity of one of the lesser known island, Solta Island.

Experience Split’s City Center on a Town Walking Tour

To learn more about the fascinating Split city center of Old Town Split, be sure to book a guided tour during your time in the city.

A guided tour will allow you to better understand the history and culture associated with Old Town Split, especially the different historical periods.

Dive into the Blue Lagoon

If the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea call your name as much as they did mine, then you will be looking for every opportunity to jump into them during your time in Split.

One of the best ways to experience these waters is to plan a visit to the Blue Lagoon.

The crystal clear waters and the diverse marine life of the Blue Lagoon make it the perfect place to enjoy a day snorkeling!

Krka National Park Excursion

Known for its breathtaking waterfalls and dense forestry, Krka National Park offers a range of activities for visitors, including:

Guided group tours including transport and a boat ride
Free time for hiking or swimming
Customizable private tours
Additional side trips

The park is located about an hour’s drive from the center of Split.

A day trip to Krka National Park is a must during your time in Split. The natural scenery here is incredible!

Plitvice Lakes National Park Journey

A sight to behold, the Plitvice Lakes offer:

enchanting waters
vast greenery
captivating waterfalls like Veliki Slap
scenic walking paths perfect for photography.

Organized tours from Split to Plitvice Lakes offer professional English-speaking guides, transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, and insurance coverage, but food and drinks are not included.

A trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must for nature lovers visiting Split.

Wine Tasting in Split

Like the rest of Croatia, Split is also renowned for its wine.

Take time to enjoy some traditional Croatian wine varieties like Pošip, Maratina, Debit, Babić, Plavac Mali, Dingac, Malvasia, and Grk during your visit.

We had the pleasure of enjoying several varieties of wine during our time in Split, and found each to be a unique and enjoyable experience.

Savor Croatian Cuisine

Tasting the local cuisine is an essential part of any visit to Split.

Here are some must-try dishes:

Dalmatian Prosciutto: a popular starter served alongside local cheeses and other Mediterranean garnishes
Peka: a slow-cooked meat or octopus dish with vegetables
Pasticada: a classic Dalmatian main course that slowly stews beef in a rich sauce
Fritule: sweet treats similar to mini doughnuts, enjoyed with a dusting of powdered sugar and sprinkles of raisins and lemon zest.

Sunset Cruise Along the Coast

A sunset boat trip along the coast is the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

Embark on a romantic 2-hour cruise featuring serenity-evoking live music as passengers watch the sun dip below the horizon over the Adriatic Sea.

Enjoy an array of complementary drinks including champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks, paired with live music creating an enchanting ambiance for all guests aboard.

Game of Thrones Themed Tours

Game of Thrones fans will be thrilled with the themed tours offered in Split, including a walking tour in the old town and a full-day tour encompassing Zrnovnica and Klis Fortress, popular Game of Thrones filming locations.

Visit the dungeons of Diocletian’s Palace and the Fortress of Klis, iconic locations from the show representing Meereen’s underground passageways, dragon chambers, and fortified exterior respectively.

You can easily take an organized tour to see these awesome locations!

Coastal Kayaking Adventure

A coastal kayaking tour is a must for those seeking adventure. The popular kayak tour in Split includes:

Departing from Marjan Forest
Typically lasting around 4 hours
Experienced guides accompanying kayakers
Sharing insights about the coastal environment to ensure a safe and informative experience.

Discover Split’s Ancient History at Salona

The ancient Roman city of Salona offers a glimpse into Roman urban life. Here, you can explore the archaeological site of Salona, which boasts:

Preserved Roman streets
Forums
Baths
Early Christian cemeteries

All of these features provide valuable insights into Roman urban life.

Summary

From historical landmarks and natural wonders to delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Split truly has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a beach bum, you’re sure to find something to love in Split, Croatia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Split in Croatia worth visiting?

Absolutely!

Split is definitely worth visiting, especially from June to October when its old town comes alive with vibrant cafes, charming restaurants, beautiful beaches, and historic boutique hotels.

Experience the scenic seafront promenade called Riva and cozy wine bars that draw in many visitors each year.

What is Split Croatia best known for?

Split, Croatia is best known for its UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, which dates back more than 1,700 years and offers a long list of things to see and do.

This stunning walled city on the Adriatic Sea is also famous for its traditions of easy living and great food.

Is it better to go to Split or Dubrovnik?

If you’re on a budget, Split is the better choice.

It offers cheaper accommodations, food, and sights, allowing you to have a great experience without breaking the bank.

With that being said, Dubrovnik is an incredibly preserved medieval walled town that is well worth exploring, especially if you are a Game of Thrones fan.

Why is Split Croatia so popular?

Split Croatia is popular because of its stunning beaches, historic Old Town, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed lifestyle that attracts expats. The city’s architectural preservation and beautiful Adriatic setting further contribute to its appeal.

What are the must-see sights in Split?

You must explore Diocletian’s Palace, Marjan Forest Park, and the Saint Domnius Bell Tower in Split. You’ll also enjoy the beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fascinating museums the city has to offer.