Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is nestled on the Adriatic Sea in Central Croatia. It's known for its Roman ruins, historic Old Town, and beautiful beaches. Split offers tasty fresh seafood, local Croatian wines, unique shops and fascinating landmarks. Simply put—there is so much to see in Croatia’s most scenic seaside city.
Many of Split's main attractions are in the Old Town. The crowning jewel is, of course, the Diocletian Palace, built in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD. But Split also offers wonderful pebbly and sandy beaches, a medieval fortress, a beautiful cathedral, art galleries, museums, and even a forest park.
Contemplating a trip to Split? Check out our complete travel guide and list of things to see and do in Split, Croatia.
Top Things To Do In Split
From sightseeing to hiking and swimming, dining, shopping, and visiting galleries and museums—there are so many fun things to do in Split, Croatia.
1 Split Old Town
A true treasure, the medieval cobblestoned pedestrian paths in Split Old Town are packed with shops, restaurants, and bars. Most of Split's most famous landmarks are located here, too. A perfect mix of modern amenities and historic ruins creates a truly unique and beautiful vacation destination.
Early morning and evening strolls are best as Split Old Town can be quite crowded during peak seasons.
- For those looking to seriously shop, check out Marmont Street. This is Split’s most popular shopping area.
2 Diocletian’s Palace
Diocletian's Palace, one of the most impressive Roman ruins in Split, offers the perfect combination of beautiful architecture, stunning coastal views, and fascinating history. In fact, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
A city in itself, the Palace was built by the emperor Diocletian to serve as his place of retirement. The large and well-preserved Roman palatial architectural structure in Split Old Town represents a half-Greek and half-Byzantine transitional style.
The area within the walls has been occupied since it was built and now showcases Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods as well as beautiful examples of Roman architecture. Built on the waterfront, warm water (in summer at least) splashes against the base of the Diocletian's Palace walls.
The central square of Diocletian’s Palace is the Peristyle. It was formerly a reception hall for imperial visits, but now it’s a fantastic setting to admire the original Roman columns, arches, and facades. Diocletian’s Palace is a must-see for any tourists in Split!
Fun Fact: Split’s most popular attraction was also a filming site in Game of Thrones Season Four.
- Address: Dioklecijanova 1, 21000, Split
3 Klis Fortress
Klis Fortress is a medieval fortress sitting above Split on a limestone cliff. This must-see attraction is believed to have been established in the 2nd century and suffered many attacks from the Venetians, the Turks, and the Romans.
The fortress itself is impressive, but the views from Klis Fortress are exquisite. Self-guided tours are available, and many visitors suggest not bringing children as some dangerous drops aren't barricaded.
- Address: Trg Mejdan 10, 21231, Klis
- Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 7 PM
4 Cathedral Of St. Domnius
Aerial view of the Cathedral of St. Domnius in Split, Croatia
Considered the oldest cathedral in the world, the Cathedral of St. Domnius dates back to the 7th century. Originally built as a mausoleum for Diocletian, in the 7th century, it was converted into a cathedral.
Over the years, many artisans and artists have contributed their talents to the Cathedral of St. Domnius. Split’s own Gothic painter, Dujam Vuškovi, painted frescoes of the four evangelists.
Attend Sunday Mass for free or take a tour to learn more about this beautiful cathedral and its fascinating history.
- Address: Kraj Svetog Duje 3, 21000, Split
- Hours: Monday through Saturday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 12 PM to 6 PM
Tourists who aren't afraid of heights will love climbing the circular staircase in the Bell Tower for spectacular city views.
5 Marjan Forest Park
Croatia has many marvelous natural wonders. And some of them are right here in Split. Marjan Forest Park offers tourists a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Split Old Town and experience a truly unique outdoor adventure.
Expect pine trees interspersed with stone churches, cave dwellings, and 300+ stairs to a summit with stunning views. The summit also offers a few trails to explore the forest further. Marjan Forest Park is also a great place to cycle.
Bike rentals are available at Marjanska Vrata, the park’s northern entrance. And for adventure seekers who like to break for coffee, there’s a small café halfway up the summit.
- Address: Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 25, 21000, Split
- Hours: Daily, 24 hours
6 Spend The Afternoon At The Beach
The beaches in Split are absolutely beautiful. Bačvice Beach is one of the best and the closest to the city center—only about a ten-minute walk. It's in a sheltered bay and on the small side, but there are many excellent dining options nearby.
Ovcice Beach is east of Bačvice Beach, and a great spot to watch the sunset. Kaštelet Beach is a pebble and sand beach with gorgeous blue water. Twenty minutes from the center of Split, the beach has shallow waters, perfect for kids. Žnjan Beach is the largest beach in Split. There are lots of restaurants and cafés, and even a playground. It's connected to Trstenik Beach via a waterside promenade, which is more secluded and associated with the Radisson Blu Resort Split.
So, expect to run into hotel guests at Trstenik Beach. Bene Beach is more remote. On the northeastern side of Marjan Forest Park, Bene Beach is surrounded by pine trees and provides a relaxing swimming spot. This is an excellent beach for a picnic.
7 Meštrović Gallery
The Mestrovic Gallery is dedicated to the artwork of Croatian sculptor, Ivan Meštrović. In the 1930s, Meštrović built a grand mansion as a personal residence. But after World War II, Meštrović immigrated to the U.S.
He donated the gallery, 132 works of art, and three other locations to the people of Croatia. The gallery features the artists’ masterpieces. It's definitely worth a visit.
- Address: Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 46, 21000, Split
- Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
8 Split Archeological Museum
Established in 1820, the Split Archeological Museum is the oldest museum in Croatia. Visitors will find over 15,000 artifacts covering a broad timeframe, including prehistoric, Roman provincial, Early Christian, Greek colonization of the Adriatic, the early Middle Ages, and the periods of famous Croatian rulers.
There's also a courtyard, a beautiful garden, and a collection of stone sculptures.
9 Best Time To Visit Split
- When are the best months to visit Split? September and October. The temperatures are still warm, and the city’s less crowded.
- When are the cheapest months to visit Split? November to April.
April through June: Weather temperatures average in the 70s. The weather is warm enough to jump right in. And the crowds have yet to quite reach the summer peak. This is a great time to visit Split. Also, some festivals to keep in mind—the Festival of the Flowers and St. Domnius Day are in May. And the Days of Radunica are in June.
July through August: Peak season means higher flight and hotel accommodations. The streets are more crowded, and lines are longer at main attractions. But with beautiful weather and sea temperatures in the mid-70s—it's no wonder why everyone wants to visit Split in the summer months. The Split Summer Festival is a fun event for visiting tourists.
September through October: With temperatures in the 60s and 70s, September and October are great times to visit Split to enjoy the weather without throngs of people. Fall festivals in Split are Yaught Week and the Split Film Festival. Both occur in the fall.
November through March: This is Split's low season. Temperatures range in the 40s and 50s, and accommodation prices tend to be cheaper. Winter is a great budget-friendly time to visit Split without the crowds.
10 Best Ways To Get Around Split
Travelers can get around Split on foot or by car or bus.
Walk
For tourists planning on sticking around Old Town, the best mode of transportation is their own two feet.
Car
A car really isn’t necessary for tourists spending all their time in Split. But for those planning to explore the Dalmatian Coast, rental cars are available at the Split airport and several locations throughout the city.
Taxis and Ubers are also readily available, but if traveling within Split, it might be quicker to just walk.
Bus
Promit Split is the local bus system, and it’s pretty inexpensive. One-way tickets within Split cost less than $2. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at a Promit kiosk.
Ferry
Croatia Ferries is a wonderful way to travel to neighboring islands. There’s a ferry terminal within walking distance of Old Town, and tourists can hop on a boat to visit Brac, Hvar, and Vis.
11 Where To Eat In Split
Split’s booming restaurant scene offers tourists so many fantastic dining options.
Breakfast
Kruscic Bakery
While the Kruscic Bakery specializes in bread using simple ingredients, the pastries and pizzas are also well-loved among tourists and locals alike!
- Address: Obrov 6 (behind the fish market), Split, Croatia, 21000
- Hours: Daily (except Sunday), 8 AM to 2 PM
- Recommended: Try their specialty—the baguettes.
Lunch
Dvor
Lunch with a view! The shaded garden is the perfect place to dine on fresh seafood and drink local wine while soaking up views of the Adriatic sea and the nearby islands—Brac and Solta. This is also an excellent breakfast spot!
- Address: Put Firula 14, Split, 21000
- Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 AM to Midnight; Friday & Saturday, 8 AM to 1 AM; Sunday, 9 AM to Midnight.
- Recommended: The Catch of the Day and a glass of local Croatian wine!
Dinner
Konoba Fetivi
This informal tavern-style restaurant is an authentic Dalmatian gem. Run by a family with solid roots in Split, Konoba Fetivi serves local favorites with freshly caught seafood as the main attraction.
- Address: Tomića Stine 4, Split, 21000
- Hours: Daily, 1 PM to 10 PM
- Recommended: Don’t miss the fresh fish and the apple strudel!
12 Where To Stay In Split
With so many excellent hotels in Split, tourists really are spoiled for choice.
Luxury
The Cornaro Hotel
The centrally located Cornaro Hotel is just a three-minute walk from Diocletian's Palace and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars. Its main perk, though, is the rooftop bar offering the perfect mix of gorgeous views, delicious cocktails, and a unique atmosphere.
- Address: Sinjska Ulica 6, Split 21000
- Amenities: Spa and wellness center, restaurant, room service, tea/coffee maker, fitness center, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi
- Cost: $$$
Mid-Range
Hotel Peristil
Located in the city center within the walls of the Diocletian’s Palace, Hotel Peristil is surrounded by everything a tourist needs—shops, restaurants, and bars. Walking to the marina and the beach takes only a few minutes.
- Address: Poljana Kraljice Jelene 5, Split
- Amenities: Restaurant, room service, Wi-Fi, flat screen T.V., bar/lounge
- Cost: $$
Budget
Hotel Slavija
Hotel Slavija is just steps from the Peristyle and the Diocletian's Palace, but it's tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets. With modern rooms, friendly staff, and an excellent on-site restaurant, this hotel is a great option for budget-friendly travelers.
- Address: Buvinina 2, Split 21000
- Amenities: Bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen T.V., restaurant, room service, coffee shop, dry cleaning/laundry service, 24-hour front desk
- Cost: $
13 How To Have A Perfect Day In Split
A bakery is always the best place to start the day, and visitors to Split are in luck—the Kruscic Bakery is a gem! Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry here but pick up some bread to go. Explore the Old Town streets in the morning before the crowds.
Next up, pack a picnic in a backpack and head to Marjan Forest Park. Climb the 300+ stairs and enjoy the gorgeous views. Explore the area for a while. Hit the trails! Maybe even rent a bike.
At lunchtime, head down to Bene Beach. Swim, enjoy that delicious bread from Kruscic Bakery, and marvel at the views of the Adriatic Sea.
In the early evening, head to Split Old Town. Check out the sights and wander the streets until it’s time for dinner. Try Konoba Fetivi or Dvor and dine on fresh fish and local Croatian wine. It doesn’t get much better than this!
FAQ
Q: What is Split known for?
Split is known best for its Diocletian Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Split's main attraction is quite impressive.
But there is so much to see throughout Split Old Town. With lots of shops, restaurants, and bars, tourists to Split will never be short of things to do.
Q: Is Split worth visiting?
Absolutely! There are so many things to see and do in Split! From exploring historic landmarks to visiting art galleries and museums, enjoying local wine, and dining on delicious fresh fish, Split is definitely worth visiting.
Q: How many days in Split in enough?
Tourists can explore most of Split Old Town in one day. But allow for ample time to relax on beach, visit Klis Fortress, hike in Maran Forest Park, and see the galleries and museums. Split is a beautiful city and worth spending significant time in.