Split, the jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is a historic port city brimming with Mediterranean charm. With its impressive Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its lively waterfront promenade, Split is a perfect destination to visit any time of the year, especially from June to September, when you can also enjoy Croatia's stunning beaches and enjoy the pleasant Mediterranean climate, warm temperatures and long sunny days.
We've had the pleasure of visiting Split twice. The first time, we spent 2-3 days in the city as part of a road trip from central to northern Croatia. The second visit was a one-day stop during a Mediterranean cruise, which allowed us to explore more of Split and its surroundings. We’re sure you’ll fall in love with it when you visit!
Without further delay, let’s explore the must-visit spots in Split:
1. DIOCLETIAN'S PALACE
This is undoubtedly the most famous place in Split, and for good reason—it’s the historical heart of the city. The palace is an enormous Roman structure filled with charming alleyways, impressive squares, and ancient remnants.
A brief historical note (though we recommend booking a free tour to fully appreciate Split’s history): Diocletian was a Roman emperor born in Salona, and this palace was built as his retirement home. He returned to his homeland and moved here, eventually leading to the formation of Split around this magnificent building.
The palace is divided into four sections by two main streets, leading to its four famous gates: the Golden Gate to the north, the Silver and Iron Gates on the sides, and the Bronze Gate to the south, which originally opened directly onto a pier over the sea.
Don't miss the Peristyle, the central square of the palace, recognizable by its columns and lively atmosphere. From the Peristyle, look towards the entrance of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and to the left, you'll see some small stone stairs that will lead you to the Vestibule, a circular domed room that served as the entrance to the emperor's private chambers.
To the east of the Peristyle is the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, one of the oldest structures still continuously used as a Christian cathedral in the world. Here, you can climb the bell tower, which dates back to the 13th century, to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city, spanning from the old town to the Adriatic Sea. We did it and highly recommend it if you have the time. Very close by is the Temple of Jupiter, dedicated to the Roman god of sky and thunder, which now houses an impressive statue of Saint John the Baptist. Don’t forget to explore the Subterranean Galleries of the palace, a labyrinth of tunnels that once served as storage areas and are now famous for being one of the best-preserved ancient complexes in the world.
Keep in mind that there is an entrance fee to visit the cathedral, climb the bell tower, see the Crypt of Saint Lucy, the Temple of Jupiter, and the Subterranean Galleries. The rest of the palace, including its four main gates, is open 24/7 all year round.
By the way, the photo on the right shows the views from the narrowest street in Europe. This street is located in Split and is called "Pusti me da prodjem," which in Croatian means "let me pass." It’s right next to the Temple of Jupiter, making it an interesting spot to visit while you walk around that area.
2. STATUE OF GRGUR NINSKI
This famous 8-meter bronze statue stands in front of the Golden Gate and is dedicated to Grgur Ninski, or Gregory of Nin, a 10th-century bishop who championed the use of the Croatian language by introducing it into church services. His influence was crucial in promoting Croatian cultural identity, and his figure is highly respected in the country’s history.
It is said that touching the statue’s big toe brings good luck, which is why you’ll notice it is worn, smooth and shiny. This ritual attracts both locals and tourists, who can’t resist the temptation to touch it. Additionally, the statue has become a symbol of Croatian resistance and national pride, making it a point of interest not only for admiring the artwork but also for reflecting on Croatia's history and culture.
3. SPLIT RIVA (Waterfront Promenade)
The Split Riva is one of the most iconic and important areas of the city, alongside Diocletian’s Palace. Over the years, it has been expanded and rebuilt several times, making it a perfect place for a leisurely walk, enjoying a coffee, and watching local life unfold by the sea. Its construction began with the arrival of the French in the early 19th century, who transformed the area into an attractive waterfront promenade.
The area behind the Riva, where Diocletian’s Palace is located, already existed, having developed as a port during the medieval centuries. So, you’ll be walking where the promenade was built after the demolition of the city’s medieval fortifications. This place is a vital meeting point for locals and visitors in Split, filled with restaurants, bars and cultural events, which brings life and energy to the city.
4. MARJAN HILL
Known as the green lung of Split, Marjan Hill is definitely worth a visit. Just a 15-minute walk from the center of Split, you can hike up Marjan to enjoy nature, the tranquility of the park, and especially its panoramic views of the city and the coast. Although there are quite a few stairs to reach the top, even if you only make it to the first viewpoint or a little further, the effort is worth it.
Marjan Forest Park is free to access, making it an ideal place to spend some time without spending money. As you ascend, you’ll encounter hiking trails surrounded by pine trees and picnic areas, perfect for relaxation. Additionally, there are small chapels and monuments along the way, such as the Church of St. Nicholas, which add a historical touch to the natural setting.
5. PROKURATIVE (Republic Square)
Prokurative, or Republic Square as it is officially called, is open only on the south side, offering beautiful views of the bay and the port. This iconic square may remind you of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, as it was inspired by neo-Renaissance architecture. One of the city’s most renowned mayors, in the mid-19th century, sought to showcase Split’s support for Italian tradition by constructing this famous square.
Today, Prokurative serves as a stage for cultural events and festivals, becoming a meeting point where locals and tourists enjoy outdoor life. Additionally, the bars and restaurants surrounding the square have created a lively atmosphere, ideal for relaxing with a drink or tasting the delicious local cuisine.
6. PAZAR (Market)
Located near the palace, this market is a must-visit for those wanting to immerse themselves in the local spirit, where you can enjoy Croatian flavors and aromas, as well as practice the art of haggling. Although we didn’t buy anything (prices can be higher than in supermarkets), it’s still an ideal place for a walk. The market is filled with colorful stalls offering fresh produce, such as fruits, vegetables and handmade goods. Additionally, it's a great spot to observe locals in their daily lives and perhaps discover some typical delicacies that you won’t find elsewhere.
7. GAME OF THRONES MUSEUM
Many scenes from the series Game of Thrones were filmed in Split and nearby locations. Therefore, the Game of Thrones Museum is a true paradise for fans of the series, as it will transport you to the heart of the Seven Kingdoms through its five themed rooms. Here, you can see real figures, city dioramas, and sets used in the production. Additionally, there are interactive exhibits that allow visitors to immerse themselves even further in the world of the series.
8. SPLIT BEACHES
Although the most spectacular beaches are located on the nearby islands, there are still many beaches close to Split where you can cool off on hot summer days. Kasjuni Beach, situated just a 15-minute drive from the center of Split, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Firule Beach is a 23-minute walk or a 6-minute drive away and is ideal for families thanks to its gentle access to the sea. On the other hand, Bacvice Beach is one of the most popular (and therefore crowded), famous for its lively atmosphere and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and playing.
9. EXCURSIONS FROM SPLIT
In our opinion, the variety of places you can visit from Split is a good reason to add an extra day to your stay, or even spend the night on one of the islands or near the places below. From islands with incredible beaches to crystal-clear lagoons or waterfalls amidst nature, you’ll definitely want to see it all! Here are our recommendations:
- HVAR ISLAND:
You can reach Hvar by ferry in 2 hours from Split, or book a day tour that will take you there and back. Hvar is the longest island in the Adriatic, covering an area of 297 km². You’ll be able to visit the 16th-century Cathedral of St. Stephen, the Franciscan Monastery, the Old Theatre, and the Spanish Fortress. After exploring the old town, head to the beaches, such as the one on the small island of Zečevo, which is accessible by boat.
In Hvar, you can also visit Stari Grad to the north, and to the southeast, Stari and Zavala, among others. Each of these places offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it worthwhile to spend time discovering everything this island has to offer.
- PAKLENI ISLANDS:
This archipelago consists of 20 islands and islets, accessible only by boat, and is filled with paradisiacal beaches and hidden spots. Located near Hvar, it’s easier to visit them from that island. Among them, there are three main islands that are especially popular with locals and tourists: Jerolim, Marinkovac, and Sveti Klement.
Jerolim is known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Marinkovac offers a mix of beautiful beaches and beach bars, perfect for socializing and enjoying island life. On the other hand, Sveti Klement is famous for its restaurants serving fresh seafood, making it a great place to enjoy an outdoor meal with views of the sea.
- BRAC ISLAND:
The largest island in Dalmatia is filled with various towns and villages surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, where you can savor Croatian cuisine, especially its delicious wines and oils. This island not only offers a charming rural landscape but is also famous for its beaches, with Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) standing out as one of the most beautiful in Croatia.
Zlatni Rat is characterized by its distinctive curved shape, extending into the sea and changing form with the currents and winds, making it even more fascinating. It is a popular spot among beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for swimming, windsurfing, or simply relaxing in the sun.
- BLUE LAGOON:
We visited the famous Blue Lagoon on a boat tour organized from Split to swim and snorkel in its turquoise waters. This place is perfect to reach by boat, as its beauty is even more appreciated from the sea. When you get tired of swimming, you can relax on the shore and enjoy the scenery; it’s an ideal spot to visit on a summer day.
- TROGIR:
Just a 30-minute drive (27 km) away, you'll find this must-visit stop. Trogir has a beautiful historic center that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, you can enter through the North Gate, the main entrance, marked by the statue of the city's patron and protector.
Get lost in the narrow streets of the old town, where you'll discover peaceful corners, squares, courtyards, and a wide variety of restaurants and souvenir shops. We recommend visiting the main square, known as John Paul II Square, where you'll find many iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, the Rector's Palace, the ruins of St. Mary's Church, St. Sebastian's Church, and more.
Outside the city walls, you can also explore Kamerlengo Castle and St. Mark’s Tower, from which you'll enjoy stunning views. Additionally, walking along the waterfront is perfect for appreciating the beauty of the Adriatic Sea—especially at sunset, if you're lucky, like the one you can see in the photo below!
You can visit all these sites in half a day, as they are all within walking distance; however, if you wish to explore every corner in detail or complement your visit with some nearby beaches, we recommend dedicating a bit more time to Trogir.
- PLITVICE LAKES:
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a natural haven located 3 hours (200 km) by car from Split. Plitvice Lakes National Park features 16 small lakes, waterfalls and streams spread across 30,000 hectares of stunning nature. Each lake is connected by wooden walkways, allowing for comfortable and safe exploration of the park.
There is an entrance fee, and we recommend dedicating half a day to a full day to enjoy its trails and paths. During your visit, you’ll encounter waterfalls as well as the park's diverse flora and fauna. Guided tours are also available, providing insights into the history and ecology of the area.
- KRKA NATIONAL PARK:
Located 1 hour and 20 minutes (80 km) by car from Split, this natural treasure is famous for its stunning waterfalls and cascades connected by a network of trails and footbridges where you can get lost and enjoy the park's nature. Keep in mind that swimming in the waterfalls is not allowed (it used to be permitted, but it was banned after some incidents).
It's important to note that there are various entrance options depending on access and what you want to visit. The most common route is a circular path around the waterfalls, which takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll see local flora and fauna and enjoy panoramic views, making this park an ideal spot for a day trip.
And that’s our list of recommendations. We hope this guide is helpful and that you can visit all these spots during your trip to Split, Croatia. Feel free to leave us a comment if you have any questions or need more information about your visit <3
How many days would you recommend staying in Split?