15 Best Things to do in Split, Croatia

From Roman ruins to island escapes, here are the best things to do in Split, Croatia in just a day or two.

Draped along the Adriatic Sea with Roman bones and Mediterranean soul, Split was once the retirement home of a Roman emperor, and today it’s a sun-drenched blend of living history, bustling cafes, and a gateway to everything from island hopping to mountain trails.

Wander its old town and you’ll find centuries layered like sediment—Roman columns turned into wine bars, medieval chapels wedged between seafood joints, and hidden courtyards where cats stretch in the sun.

Beyond the stone walls, you’ve got the palm-lined Riva promenade, buzzing with life at any hour, and beaches that seem made for long, languid swims.

It’s a place where history feels alive, where modern life and ancient ruins coexist effortlessly—and where the seafood is almost always grilled to perfection.

I spent many days getting to know Split—not just the headline sights, but the winding alleyways where laundry flaps between stone buildings, the beach bars locals actually go to, and the secret coves just a scooter ride away.

From early morning strolls through the palace before the crowds hit, to lazy afternoons sipping coffee on the Riva, to full-day excursions deep into Dalmatia, this city kept surprising me. Here’s what I found to be the very best things to do in Split, Croatia—whether you’ve got a day or a week to soak it all in.

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15 Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia

1. Explore the Historic walls of Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace isn’t just the centerpiece of Split—it is Split. Built in the 4th century AD by Roman Emperor Diocletian as a seaside retirement palace, the sprawling stone complex was originally designed as a mix between a luxurious villa and a military fortress.

But what makes it truly fascinating is what happened next: instead of crumbling into ruin, the palace became the foundation of the city itself.

Over the centuries, locals moved in and adapted the ancient halls into homes, shops, and churches, layering medieval and modern life over Roman bones. Today, the palace remains very much alive—an open-air museum that also happens to be a functioning neighborhood, filled with wine bars, artisan boutiques, and centuries of intrigue.

Highlights include the Peristyle, an atmospheric Roman courtyard where live music often echoes off marble columns, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, once Diocletian’s mausoleum and now one of the oldest cathedrals in the world.

Below ground, the palace cellars—once used to store goods—now house market stalls and exhibitions, their vaulted ceilings whispering of imperial grandeur.

Walking through Diocletian’s Palace isn’t just sightseeing—it’s time travel. One moment you’re admiring Roman architecture, the next you’re sipping espresso beside a 1,700-year-old column. It’s one of the few places in the world where ancient history and daily life are so intimately and beautifully entwined.

2. Stroll the Old Town

Beyond Diocletian’s Palace, Split’s Old Town spills out in a maze of polished stone streets, ivy-covered façades, and sun-dappled squares. While the palace forms the core, the surrounding Old Town grew organically around it, creating a mix of ancient Roman structure and charming Dalmatian character.

Wandering here is an experience best done without a map. One moment I found myself following the scent of fresh-baked pastries down a narrow alley, the next I emerged into a lively piazza buzzing with clinking coffee cups and animated local chatter.

This part of the city moves at a slower pace—where locals still greet each other by name and every corner café seems to have its own loyal fanbase (but you’ll need to visit outside the high summer for that).

Don’t miss Pjaca (People’s Square), with its 15th-century clock tower and blend of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architecture, or Fruit Square, where market stalls, Renaissance palaces, and sea breezes collide. And while the Old Town is full of hidden gems, it also rewards the spontaneous—so get a scoop of gelato, follow your curiosity, and see where the cobblestones lead.

3. Take in the Views from St. Domnius Cathedral Belltower

For the best panoramic view in Split—arguably one of the best in all of Dalmatia—climb the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral. It’s not for the faint of heart (or those with a fear of heights), but the reward is pure Adriatic magic. The climb is steep and narrow, with metal steps and open arches that give you increasingly jaw-dropping glimpses as you ascend.

Once at the top, you’re greeted with a sweeping 360-degree view over Split’s terracotta rooftops, the bustling Riva promenade, and the sparkling expanse of the Adriatic dotted with islands. Turn inland, and the Dinaric Alps rise dramatically in the distance, giving you a full sense of Split’s position between sea and mountains.

The bell tower itself dates back to the 13th century (though it’s been rebuilt and restored several times), and standing atop it feels like you’ve temporarily stepped above time. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause, breathe a little deeper, and marvel at how centuries of history have led to this view, on this perfect slice of coast.

4. Head up to Marjan Hill Viewpoint

When you need a break from Split’s historic core—but not from the views—Marjan Hill is the city’s natural escape hatch. Just a short walk from the Old Town, this pine-covered peninsula feels like an entirely different world: quiet, shaded, and scented with sea breeze and wild herbs. Locals call it the “lungs of the city,” and it’s easy to see why.

Follow the stone staircases up from the Veli Varoš neighborhood, and soon you’ll reach the Marjan Hill Viewpoint, one of the best photo ops in Split. From here, the city unfolds below you like a diorama—terracotta rooftops, Diocletian’s Palace, the glimmering harbor, and the distant islands all framed by forested slopes.

The viewpoint is especially magical at golden hour, when the sun sinks into the sea and bathes the city in soft light. Pack a water bottle, maybe a snack or a bottle of local wine, and enjoy one of the best things to do in Split.

For an even better view (and fewer crowds), continue hiking further into the park—you’ll be rewarded with peaceful trails, hidden chapels, and occasional glimpses of the Adriatic peeking through the pines.

5. Explore the Marjan Peninsula

Once you’ve caught your breath and your panoramic shots from above, don’t head straight back down—the Marjan Peninsula deserves a proper wander.

This forested headland, stretching out into the Adriatic like a green finger, is crisscrossed with scenic trails, hidden beaches, and centuries-old chapels carved into the rock. It’s where locals go to jog, swim, cycle, or simply disappear from the bustle of city life.

The peninsula is protected as a park, and it shows—pine trees sway overhead, the air is thick with the scent of resin and salt, and the sea glitters around every curve of the path. You’ll stumble across quiet coves perfect for a swim (try Kašjuni Beach or Bene Beach), and old hermit chapels like St. Jerome’s, which is literally carved into the cliffs.

Bring good walking shoes and a swimsuit—it’s the kind of place where a morning hike can effortlessly turn into an impromptu afternoon at the beach.

6. Spend Time on Split’s Beaches

Split may be a historic city, but it definitely knows how to do beach days right. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with beach bars and music or a quiet cove for a peaceful swim, there’s a stretch of coastline for every mood. Here are some of the best beaches to check out:

Bačvice Beach – The most famous (and busiest) beach in Split, known for its shallow waters, sandy shore (rare in Croatia!), and the local game of picigin—a chaotic yet mesmerizing water sport unique to Split.

Kašjuni Beach – Tucked beneath the cliffs of Marjan, this pebble beach offers a more relaxed vibe with crystal-clear water and a beach bar for snacks and cocktails. Great for sunset swims- this one of my favorite beaches in Split.

Bene Beach – Set deep within Marjan Park, this shady, pine-fringed beach has a rustic charm and fewer tourists. It’s popular with families and locals who want to stay cool under the trees.

Firule Beach – Just east of Bačvice, this smaller sandy beach draws a more laid-back crowd. It’s great for swimmers and has a bit more breathing room than its lively neighbor.

Trstenik Beach – A bit further from the center, this beach is quieter and more modern, with loungers for rent and a polished, resort-like feel—ideal if you’re after comfort and calm.

7. Stroll the Riva

No visit to Split is complete without a slow, unhurried stroll along the Riva, the city’s sun-soaked waterfront promenade. Hugging the edge of the Old Town and backed by the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, the Riva is Split’s open-air waterfront promenade—a place where locals and visitors alike come to sip coffee, swap gossip, people-watch, and bask in the Adriatic glow.

Lined with towering palms and rows of cafés with perfectly placed patio chairs, it’s the kind of place where time stretches out, especially in the golden light of late afternoon. Street performers play everything from jazz to Dalmatian folk, the scent of espresso and grilled fish floats through the air, and ferries glide in and out of the harbor beyond.

8. Visit a Nearby Island

One of the best things about Split is that the islands are right there, just across the water, begging for a day trip—or three. Whether you’re after beach lounging, wine tasting, or quiet village charm, hopping on a ferry or speedboat opens up an entirely new side of Dalmatia. Here are three of the most enticing options:

Brač – The closest island to Split, and home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, often dubbed the most beautiful in Croatia. But Brač is more than its photogenic shoreline—explore the stone-carving town of Pučišća, climb Vidova Gora for sweeping views, or enjoy fresh seafood in sleepy harborside villages. It’s ideal for a full-day adventure without straying too far.

Hvar – Known for its glamorous and more party reputation, Hvar offers much more than just yacht parties and celeb sightings. The town is a stunner, with Gothic palaces, lively piazzas, and a hilltop fortress that rewards climbers with views over the Pakleni Islands. Venture beyond the main town to discover lavender fields, beautiful beaches, and charming villages like Stari Grad.

Vis – The furthest and most laid-back of the bunch, Vis is a dream for travelers craving authenticity. Once a Yugoslav military base, the island was off-limits for decades, which helped preserve its untouched charm. Rent a scooter, explore the rugged coastline, and visit the stunning Blue Cave on nearby Biševo island. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay longer than planned.

9. Visit Klis Fortress

Just a short drive from Split, Klis Fortress rises dramatically from a rocky ridge, offering one of the most commanding views in all of Dalmatia. Once the key stronghold guarding the pass between the Adriatic coast and the Balkan interior, Klis has seen it all—from Illyrian tribes to Roman legions, medieval Croatian kings, and Ottoman sieges.

Its layered history is visible in every stone, with remnants of Roman walls, an Ottoman-era mosque, and medieval battlements all coexisting within the fortress walls. Today, you can explore its windswept ramparts, peek into a small museum of arms and armor, and soak in panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the sea.

And if the stone courtyards look familiar, it might be because Klis played a starring role as Meereen in Game of Thrones. It’s a quick and worthy escape from Split, where history, drama, and stunning scenery collide.

10. Charter a Yacht for the Day

If you really want to channel your inner Mediterranean dream, one of the best things to do in Split, Croatia, is chartering a yacht or small boat for the day from Split. With the Adriatic sparkling just beyond the harbor and countless islands, coves, and hidden beaches within easy reach, a private boat unlocks a completely different perspective of Dalmatia—one of freedom, luxury, and pure sea breeze bliss.

You can sail to secluded bays on Šolta, drop anchor for a swim in the turquoise shallows near Brač, or hop between chic beach clubs on the Pakleni Islands off Hvar. Many charters include a skipper (no boating license required), and some even come with onboard catering or snorkeling gear for the full experience.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset sail or a full-day island-hopping adventure with friends, a day on the water is the kind of splurge that turns a great trip into an unforgettable one. This Private boat tour skippered by a local expert is what I’d recommend.

11. Spend an Afternoon in Trogir

Just a 30-minute drive or boat ride from Split, Trogir feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved Renaissance postcard. This tiny island town, connected to the mainland by a short bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with charm—think marble lanes, ivy-draped facades, and elegant Venetian architecture at every turn.

The centerpiece is the stunning Cathedral of St. Lawrence, with its intricate Romanesque portal and bell tower offering panoramic views over red rooftops and the shimmering bay. But Trogir is best enjoyed slowly: wander the narrow alleyways, browse local boutiques tucked into centuries-old buildings, and linger over gelato or a seafood lunch by the waterfront promenade.

It’s smaller, less visited and more relaxed than Split, making it the perfect afternoon escape when you need a dose of beauty, history, and calm.

If you prefer to combine a visit to Split and Trogir, I recommend this private tour.

12. See the Blue Cave

If you’re up for a bit of a journey (and a whole lot of wonder), a visit to the Blue Cave is one of the most surreal natural experiences you can have near Split.

Located on Biševo Island, just off the coast of Vis, this sea cave is famous for its glowing, otherworldly blue light that fills the chamber around midday when the sun hits the water just right. The effect is pure magic—the water turns electric blue, and everything submerged in it shimmers like liquid silver.

Getting there typically involves a speedboat tour from Split, often combined with stops at other stunning spots like Stiniva Cove, the Green Cave, and swimming breaks in secluded bays. It’s a bit of a trek, but if the sea is calm and the sun is shining, the Blue Cave is a spectacle that absolutely lives up to the hype.

13. Visit Stella Croatica

Tucked into the hills above Split, just past Klis Fortress, Stella Croatica is a hidden gem in Split that offers a deep dive into traditional Dalmatian life. This beautifully curated ethno-agro park is part botanical garden, part olive oil museum, and part gourmet heaven—all set within a working estate.

Here, you can stroll through fragrant Mediterranean gardens, learn about the centuries-old process of olive oil production, and sample award-winning oils that put mass-produced varieties to shame. The guided tour includes tastings of traditional sweets, dried fruits, and locally made cosmetics, all crafted from native ingredients like figs, almonds, and lavender.

There’s also a charming tavern on site where you can sit down to a slow, farm-to-table meal made with ingredients grown right there on the property. It’s a peaceful, sensory-rich escape from Split’s busy streets and a beautiful way to connect with the region’s artisanal roots.

14. Explore the Local Wineries

Just beyond Split’s urban buzz lies a world of terraced vineyards, stone cellars, and time-honored winemaking traditions. The Dalmatian coast is home to some of Croatia’s most intriguing wines, thanks to its sun-soaked climate, rugged terrain, and indigenous grape varieties like Plavac Mali and Crljenak Kaštelanski—the original Zinfandel.

One of the best ways to experience the region is to visit a local winery for a tasting session, where the wine flows alongside platters of local cheese, olives, and prosciutto.

Wineries around Kaštela, just northwest of Split, are particularly well known, with small, family-run estates offering intimate tastings often guided by the winemakers themselves.

A bit further afield, in the hills near Skradin or on the island of Hvar, you’ll find boutique producers crafting complex reds and crisp whites that reflect the character of the coast. Whether you join a guided wine tour or venture out on your own, spending a lazy afternoon sipping in the shade of an olive tree is one of the most rewarding—and delicious—ways to connect with Dalmatian culture.

15. Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park

Krka National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Split, and with good reason—the waterfalls are undeniably picturesque, and the wooden boardwalks winding through emerald-green scenery look like something out of a fairytale. But while the park has its moments of beauty, my experience there was, unfortunately, underwhelming.

During peak season, Krka can feel overwhelmingly crowded, with packed trails, long queues, and a slightly theme park-like atmosphere that detracts from the natural serenity. Given the steep entrance fee, it’s worth considering whether the experience matches the hype—especially if you’re craving something more peaceful and immersive.

That said, visiting Krka can still be worthwhile if you time it right. I’d strongly recommend going as early in the day as possible—ideally right when it opens—and planning your trip during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for a quieter, more enjoyable visit.

If you’re in Split during the summer months and short on time, you might want to think twice and consider exploring one of the nearby islands or natural spots around Marjan instead. Krka is beautiful—but only if you catch it in the right light and without the crowds.

Looking for where to stay and eat in Split? For a deeper dive into the very best spots, check out my dedicated guides to the best hotels in Split and where to eat in Split—packed with hand-picked recommendations and insider tips to help you plan the perfect stay.

Best Tours of Split

Whether you want to dive deep into Roman history, sail across turquoise waters, or sip your way through Dalmatian wine country, joining a guided tour is a great way to unlock Split’s many layers. Here are some of the best and most worthwhile tours to consider.

How Many Days in Split, Croatia?

Split is one of those cities that can be both a quick stop and a slow burn, depending on your travel rhythm. For most travelers, 1 to 2 days is the sweet spot. One full day gives you enough time to explore Diocletian’s Palace, wander the Old Town, stroll the Riva, and catch sunset from Marjan Hill.

In two days, you can add in a nearby beach, take a half-day trip to Trogir or Klis Fortress, or even squeeze in an island hop or winery visit.

Split is compact and walkable, and its major sights are conveniently clustered—so it’s easy to see a lot in a short time. Of course, if you fall under its Adriatic spell (as many do), you might find yourself lingering longer than planned. But if you’re moving through Croatia on a broader itinerary, one to two days in Split hits the highlights beautifully.

How to Get to Split, Croatia

Split is one of Croatia’s most accessible cities, whether you’re arriving by air, sea, or land. The city’s Split Airport (SPU) is located about 25 minutes from the center and has regular connections to major European hubs, especially in summer. From the airport, you can hop in a taxi, use a rideshare app, or take a shuttle bus straight to the main bus terminal near the ferry port.

If you’re already in Croatia, buses are a reliable and affordable way to reach Split, with frequent service from Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and even neighboring countries. The train network is more limited but does connect Split to Zagreb via a scenic (though slower) route.

For those arriving by sea, Split is a major ferry hub. You can take ferries from Italy (like Ancona) or arrive via local lines from nearby islands such as Brač, Hvar, or Vis. The ferry port, train station, and bus terminal are all conveniently located next to each other—making transfers smooth and stress-free.

If you’re renting a car and driving around as part of a larger trip to Croatia, the coastal highway offers dramatic views and a relatively easy ride. Just be prepared for a bit of traffic in summer and limited parking in the Old Town.

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So, which one of these best things to do in Split, Croatia will you do? Let me know in the comments below.

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