split one day trip

One Day in Split Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Split, Croatia

Over the years, Split has consistently been growing more and more popular among tourists. It is a top destination with loads of cultural heritage and historical buildings going back hundreds of years. Oh, and there’s a huge number of amazing festivals to choose from. What was once a city from which you’d only go to other amazing Croatian places has become a place that captivates your imagination and makes you want to come back again and again. It’s no surprise that a Roman emperor chose this place to build a huge palace just for himself. No doubt, this is one the best destinations in Europe and a top summer Mediterranean destination. One day in Split is therefore an experience you really can’t afford to miss. This is the Mediterranean at its finest!

What’s the best time to visit Split?

Split is a city that can be visited throughout the year. That being said, however, do keep in mind that summer is peak season here, with tourists starting to come as early as April. Also, the tourist season ends somewhere in early fall, but July and August is when you will see most visitors. However, since winters are relatively mild around here, it may be worth exploring the city during that time. Keep in mind, though, that there are fewer events around.

Speaking of events, the number-one event you can visit every summer is Ultra Europe . Some of the best DJs in the world along with tens of thousands of fans from all over the world flock to the city, so if you’re a fan of this type of music, this festival is a must. Do note that the prices in Split peak at this time. The Mediterranean Film Festival is also quite cool if you’re a movie lover, and Split Summer Festival offers some great performances in the jaw-dropping heart of the Diocletian’s Palace.

What’s good to know about Split?

The city itself offers a combination of rich history and architecture, stunning natural surroundings and numerous beautiful beaches. The most famous one is Bačvice , but if you’re looking for a place that is less crowded, you may want to head out of town, towards Omiš. Be advised, traffic jams are not uncommon during summer!

The core of the city is the Ancient Roman Palace – Diocletian’s Palace , built in the 4th century AD and continuously inhabited until today, which means that you can witness 17 centuries of the city’s history simply by walking down the narrow stone streets.

The locals are absolutely crazy about their football club, Hajduk Split . So don’t be surprised when you see the club’s emblems everywhere and graffiti supporting the team. If you have the time, do go and take a tour of the stadium, Poljud, because it is considered to be an architectural masterpiece. The fan shop there will provide you with plenty of interesting souvenirs.

One Day in Split Itinerary – What to do in Split, Croatia

Welcome to sunny Split! The second-biggest city in Croatia and the largest one in the region of Dalmatia has a lot to offer to every visitor. There is stunning architecture, great food and many other things for you to explore and enjoy. Follow this itinerary and make the best of your trip even if you’re short on time – these are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Split.

Visit Split’s Old Town

Head to the Old Town right in the morning to start your one day in Split. If you happen to visit the city during the peak season, it’s the only way to avoid huge crowds. Start your walking tour at the north entrance of the Diocletian Palace near the Gregory of Nin Statue and make a wish by rubbing his golden toe. It will surely come true! If you’re into some morning coffee, there is a nice sidewalk café in the Gallery of Art (Galerija Umjetnina) just across the northern wall of the Palace. You can always check out the exhibition after you finish your coffee.

Enjoy the Panoramic View from the Bell Tower of the Cathedral

Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town and finally find your way to the ancient square Peristil and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius . Visit the cathedral and don’t forget to climb the bell tower for the most beautiful panoramic view of the city. There will be a small price to pay to enter, but it shouldn’t be more than a few euros.

Visit the Substructures and Riva Promenade

Continue your Diocletian’s Palace tour and go down to the Palace substructures (the Diocletian’s Palace cellars). You can do the whole Substructure Tour at a very reasonable price, or you can just visit the central part that’s free of charge. There, you can buy some souvenirs or jewelry at the underground market and continue your walk on the main promenade called Riva. Fun fact – a part of the Game of Thrones show was shot here. In fact, the palace doubled as the city of Meereen’s throne room!

Enjoy a stroll along Riva sit down for some coffee

The Riva Promenade is the most iconic outdoor space in Split and it’s the place where locals enjoy their coffee in the warm weather. Apart from coffee shops, there are some nice restaurants, but also some very delicious ice cream shops. There are numerous benches where you can bask in the sun or relax in the shadows of the palm trees.

Walk a bit to the west, and visit the newly renovated West Coast Promenade. There you can enjoy a delicious espresso and an even more beautiful sea view. Do it in a relaxed mood as locals do; one coffee shouldn’t last less than 1 hour.

It’s Lunchtime

By now you must be hungry. Fortunately, there are many great restaurants around. You should definitely go for some of the Croatian specialties – pašticada with gnocchi (a stewed beef dish cooked in special sauce) or lamb with peas . If you prefer seafood, black risotto is a local specialty and the way to go.

The restaurant Fife started as a local place with great traditional dishes and pretty fair prices. Although it can get a bit crowded in the peak season, it’s still a great place if you want to try local cuisine.  Villa Spiza is another restaurant favored by the locals – mostly serving Mediterranean and local dishes. Corto Maltese also comes highly recommended, with a mix of Croatian and Italian dishes.

Take in a Great View from the Marjan Hill

After lunch, it’s time to burn some calories and climb hundreds of stairs up to the viewpoint Prva vidilica on Marjan Hill . It’s a great place to admire the surrounding islands on one side and the stunning mountains on the other. The bar with the terrace overlooking the city is a nice place to grab a cup of coffee or some fresh orange juice. There’s also a restaurant here, a fantastic place for a dinner under the stars with your significant other.

Relax at a beach

No one day in Split would be complete without a trip to one of the beaches. So, why not spend a part of your afternoon there? Since the city itself is a peninsula, there are multiple options to choose from. The one sandy beach, and also the most popular one, is Bačvice . However, there are loads of great pebble beaches below Marjan. Kašuni or Obojena could be your perfect choice.

Watch a Beautiful Sunset

The sunset in Split can get really magical as the sun sets behind the island of Čiovo. The perfect spots to watch that spectacle are Zvončac and Sustipan Park . These are also nice places to chill after an exhausting day since there should be a bar with a nice view nearby. Sit down and just enjoy the fact that you’re here for a minute.

Sit down for a nice Split dinner

There are many nicely decorated, newly opened restaurants in the narrow streets of the Old City. Bokeria offers magnificent food with a mix of modern and traditional flavors, and the interior is gorgeous. Artičok  restaurant is a charming place you definitely must visit, and also one of the best value deals in the center of Split. Consider Oštarija U Viđakovi too, a traditional and exceptionally cozy restaurant with quite decent prices.

See what the nightlife has to offer

You should always check out some event sites to find out about what’s happening in Split on that particular night. The nice bars are mostly located in/around the Old City. Check out the Ghetto bar for some cocktails and music or Bačvice for some beach clubs. In the off-season, clubs Judino Drvo and Central could be your best choices.

Where to stay in Split?

When it comes to Split, most of the sightseeing is within walking distance of the city center or right at the very heart of the city. Therefore, the best option would be to stay close to the city center.

Hotel Ambasador

Trumbićeva obala 18, 21000 Split, Croatia

The newly-opened Hotel Ambasador is a five-star beauty that will make your stay in Split an exquisite one. Located just outside of the Old Town, it is in an ideal position for sightseeing. Furthermore, it provides spectacular views of the city’s harbor and the nearby islands. The design of the rooms is nothing short of beautiful, plus you can enjoy a wonderful terrace, an outdoor pool, a sauna, a fitness centre and many other amenities. Luxury at its very finest!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Kralja Zvonimira 6, 21 000 Split

The stylish Hotel Luxe in Split is just a 5-minute walk from the main city beach Bačvice, still super close to the Diocletian‘s Palace. The unique interior, magnificent views, and facilities like sauna, jacuzzi, and gym (free of charge) make it one of the top hotels in Split. The breakfast is very tasty, and the staff are exceptionally friendly and willing to go the extra mile to help you out. You simply can’t go wrong with this fantastic hotel!

Hotel Marul

Ćiril-Metodova 7, 21000 Split

Hotel Marul is another hotel at the very heart of the city . It features an à la carte restaurant and a bar, plus there is a wonderful garden outside where you can enjoy all of that in peace and quiet. Rooms are decorated in pastel tones and elegantly furnished, with some of them offering a balcony with an amazing view. There is also a children’s playground close by, which parents will certainly know to appreciate. Certainly a choice worthy of your consideration.

Hostel Dvor

Radmilovićeva 71, 21000 Split, Croatia

Anyone looking for a hostel in Split cannot do better than Hostel Dvor. Its excellent location puts you close to the main sights, and the lovely terrace can make your morning coffee quite an experience. The place is also impeccably clean and in a very quiet part of the town, so you will always get a good night’s sleep here. Dvor is everything a hostel should be and more!

 DAY TRIPS FROM SPLIT

While Split is certainly a beautiful city, due to its modest size, one day should be enough to see most of the things that are worth seeing there. After all, that is why most visitors only spend one or two days before exploring the rest of the coast or the nearby islands . Here are some of those hidden gems that you may not have heard of.

Krka National Park Day Trip

Somewhat reminiscent of the more famous Plitvice Lakes National Park, the waterfalls of Krka National Park, especially Skradinski Buk, are a sight to behold. Surrounded by traditional watermills, the river Krka once also powered the world’s second-oldest hydroelectric power plant . Since the National Park is only an hour’s drive from Split, there’s no excuse for missing its pristine natural beauty.

Blue Cave and Hvar Day Trip

You may have noticed that Croatia has a lot of islands. Choosing the right island to visit and getting familiar with the ferry system can sometimes seem like a hassle. Additionally, if you’re strapped for time, there’s no chance you’ll get to see anything on your own. Luckily, there are several popular day trips that will take you to see all of the most popular nearby sights, allowing you to experience something a little different, such as the Blue Cave, the Green Cave, and Stiniva Bay . The blue cave, entered by boat, is jaw-droppingly beautiful, while Hvar, especially the Old Town , is one of the most exclusive destinations in Croatia.

Day Trip to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik , the “Pearl of the Adriatic”,  is certainly the most famous city in Croatia, and one of the best holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. While it may take around 3 hours to get there, the trip is well worth it. The city’s unique history and architecture fascinate thousands of visitors each day. Only Napoleon was able to get past its impenetrable walls, while in recent years, it has been run over by Game of Thrones fans looking to walk the cobbled streets of King’s Landing.

Extra tips for visiting Split

– At the start of 2023, the euro became Croatia’s currency, so if you’re already using it, you don’t have to worry about exchanging it.

– If you’d like to explore the nearby islands, definitely check out Sea Tours Croatia

– Even though the tips in the bars and restaurants are never included in the price, it is customary to tip at least 10%.

– Almost all coffee bars and restaurants have  free Wi-fi . If the password’s not written on the receipt just ask the waiter for one.

– If you just move a bit from the Old Town and the sea coast, the restaurant and bakery prices can go down by as much as 50%.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Split Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

[…] Split is a beautiful city whose origins date back to the end of the third century AD. Its core is a massive Roman palace complex, so there’s plenty of sightseeing to do. On top of that, it is very well connected with the islands in its vicinity which hide some of the most spectacular beaches you’ll ever see. Staying here a few days before/after the festival is a great vacation idea because you have plenty to do and enjoy. […]

[…] Novalja on the island of Pag from July 15 to July 17, it’s a good way to keep partying after Split if you still have the energy and don’t mind the change of the music genre. B Young, Tim […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

How to Spend One Splendid Day in Split (Itinerary + Travel Tips)

With its terracotta rooftops, sunshine, and seaside views, spending one day in Split is a fantastic addition to any trip to Croatia!

As the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast, Split is also home to a bustling port, making it a fun and also very logical stop on many trips through the country.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia , stopping to spend one day in Split is an easy and rewarding choice.

We’ve been lucky enough to visit Split several times, including using the city as a base for various day trips around the coast, and always enjoy our time there.

Before jetting off to Hvar , the Plitvice Lakes , or Dubrovnik , take a moment to pause in Split for a taste of history dating back to the Roman Empire, a (literal) taste of some delicious Dalmatian seafood, and a chance to enjoy some gorgeous seaside views.

Here’s how to pull off the perfect one day in Split itinerary.

Table of Contents

Two Exciting Options for Spending One Day in Split

The ultimate one day in split itinerary, where to stay when visiting split, getting around when spending 24 hours in split, tips for spending one day in split, read more about visiting croatia (and beyond).

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

There are essentially two ways to handle spending one day in Split, and which one is right for you probably depends a lot on what the rest of your trip to Croatia looks like.

The one day Split itinerary I’ve outlined below can easily take up an entire day if you move slowly through the city, lingering over meals and views.

It can also be condensed, and by moving quickly and skipping a couple of the sights that appeal to you the least, you can cover the bulk of this Split itinerary in half a day.

If you do that, you’ll also leave half a day available to take a trip to the islands .

If you’re not going to get another chance to explore Croatia’s islands, we absolutely recommend the second option: sightseeing in the city center for part of the day, and donning your bathing suit for an epic tour like this for the other part.

This tour covers swimming in crystal-clear water at the Blue Lagoon, a chance to briefly tour the beautiful town of Trogir (depending on the season), and a visit to Šolta Island.

It gets rave reviews and still leaves enough time in your day to independently explore Split using the one day Split itinerary I’ve outlined below.

Of course, if your overall Croatia itinerary already includes plenty of sights like those included in the tour, you may want to concentrate all of your one day in Split in the city itself, which also makes for an incredibly fun day.

Book your 3 islands day trip from Split today!

Start your morning with a stroll through Diocletian’s Palace.

Diocletian’s Palace is a bit of a misnomer: while most destinations marketed as palaces are single sightseeing destinations, Diocletian’s Palace is Split’s entire old town!

It’s not enormous, but it’s not exactly one single destination, either.

Start your one day in Split by heading into the palace–here are a few sights inside that you won’t want to miss.

St. Domnius Cathedral + Bell Tower

Built in 305 AD as a mausoleum for Diocletian himself, St. Domnius Cathedral is an unmissable sight during one day in Split.

If you’re in the mood for some morning views over the city, you can also climb the bell tower, but fair warning–if you’re scared of heights like me, it feels a little perilous… and in our biased opinion, it’s not the best view of Split (which is coming up later in this Split itinerary).

Jupiter’s Temple

Built in honor of the Roman god Jupiter, this temple is quite small.

It’s also quick to visit, though, and definitely worth checking out for Roman history buffs visiting Split.

Basement Halls

The basement of Diocletian’s Palace serves a few purposes in modern Split.

I t’s simultaneously a beautiful walkway from Peristil Square to the Riva, a place for souvenir shopping, and for Game of Thrones fans, it’s a place to check out the city of Meereen (Daenerys’ throne room was located here, among other scenes).

Located just behind Peristil Square, the beautiful vestibule is known today primarily for its architecture and acoustics.

I n Dicoletian’s day, the vestibule acted as the first room visitors would enter on their way to the imperial apartments in the palace.

Peristil Square (Peristyle)

Once the location where Diocletian would receive and greet subjects, this beautiful square remains one of the heartbeats of Split’s tourism center and a fabulous place to grab a spot in the shade (and perhaps a pricey cup of coffee, if you’re so inclined) and watch the world go by.

For us, no trip to Split is complete without some time spent lounging around the steps and people-watching in Peristil Square!

Stroll through Pazar Market.

Located to the east of Diocletian’s Palace, the Pazar Market is a bustling feature of Split’s city life, selling everything from souvenirs to vegetables.

Be sure to stop by as part of your one day Split itinerary, even if you’re not in the market for anything, and to duck into the nearby fish market as well (if your nose can handle it, that is).

On our most recent trip to Pazar, we bought a basket of raspberries from the market nearly every day to snack on while sightseeing and absolutely loved having them so accessible.

People watch in People’s Square.

Larger and more vibrant than Peristil Square, People’s Square is lined with shops and cafes and home to a beautiful Renaissance clock tower.

It’s also a wonderful place to enjoy some people-watching in Split, whether you have 2 minutes or 2 hours to relax there.

Climb Marjan Hill for amazing views of Split.

Home to what we believe to be the best view of Split, a climb up Marjan Hill is an excellent way to spend part of your one day Split itinerary.

While you can climb all the way to the top, the terrace in front of Teraca Vidilica restaurant is free to visit, doesn’t take too long to reach, and offers incredible views.

E ven if you’re short on time and trying to pack a ton of sightseeing into your day, definitely try to make room for it!

Head to the Riva for a sunset stroll and drink.

Split’s Riva is an absolutely beautiful palm-tree-lined promenade and the perfect place to close out your one day in Split.

While restaurants here are, unsurprisingly, expensive and often mediocre, it’s worth sitting down to enjoy the beautiful view for one drink and watch as evening settles over the city.

Once you’re done, enjoy a walk along the promenade, admiring the seaside views and park-like atmosphere–perhaps while enjoying a scoop of gelato from one of the many nearby stands.

If at all possible, we highly recommend staying within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva for your one day in Split.

You’ll be able to accomplish far more sightseeing, enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and avoid the hassle of getting in and out of the center via local buses (which is exactly what we dealt with on our first trip).

Lodging prices for Split, like many beach destinations, vary dramatically depending on the time of year you visit.

If you’re looking to save money, definitely check shoulder season rates to compare them against the prices in, say, August (and if you are planning to visit Split in August, book as far ahead as you can!).

Rooms Šećer — Boasting excellent reviews and a prime location right outside of Diocletian’s Palace, Rooms Šećer is the perfect option for a budget traveler looking for something a bit more comfortable than a hostel dorm while still staying in a fabulous location on a budget.

Check rates & book your stay at Rooms Šećer!

Rooms Supreme Spalato — With rave reviews for its prime location nearby Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva, its superb included breakfast, and excellent hospitality, Rooms Supreme Spalato is a go-to choice for mid-range travelers in Split.

Check rates & book your stay at Rooms Supreme Spalato!

Murum Heritage Hotel — Forget staying near Diocletian’s Palace: with a luxury choice like Murum Heritage Hotel, you can stay directly inside the palace!

With near-perfect reviews, a fantastic included breakfast, and spacious rooms housed in a beautiful, historic property, you won’t forget a stay here anytime soon.

Check rates & book your stay at Murum Heritage Hotel!

If you choose to stay within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace, this entire one day Split itinerary can be accomplished on foot.

The bus station and harbor are also within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace, so you may not need any alternative transportation during your trip to Split at all!

Don’t expect to find fantastic swimming near the center of town.

While there are a few local beaches within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace, the phenomenal, crystal-clear waters that Croatia is famous for aren’t so easy to access from the historic center (at least on foot).

F or the best possible swimming in the area, head out to the islands .

The crowds aren’t quite at Dubrovnik levels, but they aren’t far behind.

Dubrovnik is well-known for its struggles with overtourism and intense crowds, but the truth is, Split isn’t far behind.

M ost of those cruise ships that stop in Dubrovnik also pull up to Split, making the crowds in Diocletian’s Palace downright overwhelming when the ships are in town.

Split’s old town is a bit larger than Dubrovnik’s, allowing tourists to spread out a bit more, but make no mistake: Split is absolutely on the beaten path for tourism in Croatia.

… and neither are the prices.

While Split is a bit cheaper than Dubrovnik or glitzy Mediterranean getaways like the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast , it’s not exactly a bargain destination, either.

Traveling in the shoulder season can help limit costs, but overall, don’t count on Split as an extremely affordable destination as compared to beach getaways a bit further east.

If you want to go swimming, bring water shoes!

The pebble beaches of Croatia are absolutely beautiful, but they’re hard on the feet–sadly we’ve both cut our feet on the rocks over the years.

If you’re planning on doing a lot of swimming, be sure to bring along a pair of water shoes to protect your feet!

If possible, stay within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace.

I mentioned this above, but just to reiterate: your experience in Split will be much smoother if you stay close to the center of tourism.

We stayed a bus ride away from the center of Split on our first visit, and much, much preferred our later trip when we were able to stroll right to the palace or Riva in just a few minutes.

Traveling to Croatia soon and eager to keep planning your trip to the country… and maybe some of its neighbors, too?

You can  browse all of our Croatia blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 25 Best Places to Visit in Croatia
• The Perfect 7 Day Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary
• 15 Spectacular Things to Do in Sarajevo
• The Perfect One Day in Zagreb Itinerary
• 15 Best Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro

[convertkit form=3127238]

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “How to Spend One Splendid Day in Split (Itinerary + Travel Tips)”

We were lucky enough to visit Croatia and Split in 2019.what a fantastic time we had. Friendly people great food and good cycle sail tour. Would love to visit again.

What a wonderful trip! Hope you get a chance to go back. 🙂 I know we can’t wait to!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

happy when abroad

your compass to happy adventures

How to Spend One Day in Split Croatia: Full Itinerary

Planning your dream trip to Croatia and wondering if you should squeeze one day in Split into your busy itinerary? The answer is a resounding YES, and the great news is, you can see all of this bite-sized city in just a day. In this one-day Split itinerary , I’m covering all of the top attractions and must-sees, so that you can jet off to the Croatian islands the next day without feeling like you’ve missed a thing. This is going to be a jam-packed day, there’s no doubt about it, but I promise it’s worth it!

This guest post was written by Ella from Many More Maps

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, the small commission will help me produce more free content for you. For more information, please refer to my  privacy policy .

Table of Contents

1-Day Itinerary Split

Stop 1 – breakfast at d16 coffee.

Split is surprisingly short on hipster coffee shops, but luckily you’ll find one of the very best right inside Diocletian’s Palace . We’ll get into what, exactly, Diocletian’s Palace is in a minute, but first – coffee! There aren’t a whole lot of breakfast items on offer here, but their croissants are pretty solid, and you won’t want to fill yourself up too much since there’s so much exploring up ahead! The main reason this place stands out is that their cups of coffee (complete with latte art – a rare sight in Split!) cost less than €2 a cup.

Top tip : Croatia used to use its currency, the Croatian kuna, but as of January 2023, Croatia uses the Euro ! Outdated travel guides may still refer to the Croatian kuna, so bear this in mind when planning your trip.

Stop 2 – Walking Tour of Diocletian’s Palace

Coffee and breakfast consumed, it’s time to start checking out the sights, and where better than Diocletian’s Palace? Diocletian’s Palace, at the heart of Split, isn’t a palace at all. It’s actually an expansive fortress complex blending ancient Roman architecture with modern Croatian life. Originally built for Emperor Diocletian, this UNESCO World Heritage site is now full of shops, houses, and restaurants within its ancient walls. 

It can be pretty tricky to learn much about the palace wandering it independently since there are not many informational signs around. For this reason, it’s far better to book a spot on a guided walking tour to explore the palace in-depth. Don’t miss climbing to the top of the Pjaca Clock Tower for the best views of the city!

Stop 3 – Varoš Neighborhood

After immersing yourself in the ancient charm of Diocletian’s Palace, a stroll through the Varoš neighborhood is the perfect next step. As you wander, make a point to visit the serene Sveti Mikula Church , before heading over to snap a few photos of Matejuška , a scenic pier where the local fishermen gather. 

This quaint area, one of Split’s oldest, is a charming maze of narrow streets and unique traditional homes. Around seemingly every turn you’ll find a cozy café or a small, family-run restaurant serving up local specialties. And when you need a moment to soak it all in, pause at the People’s Square , a quaint and somewhat bohemian square surrounded by stone houses. It’s less touristy here, and the perfect contrast to Diocletian’s Palace so that you can enjoy a more authentic slice of Split life.

Stop 4 – Bačvice Beach

After your wander through Varoš, make your way to Bačvice Beach, a local favorite just a short walk from the city center. Known for its shallow waters and sandy shores, Bačvice is the perfect spot to bask in the sun and take advantage of the Dalmatian coast’s glorious weather.

Getting to Bačvice is a breeze – just follow the coastline southeast from the city center, and you’ll find yourself here in no time. Here, you can dip your toes in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea or join in a game of picigin, a traditional Croatian ball game played in the shallow waters.

Stop 5 – Marjan Hill

After soaking up the sun at Bačvice Beach, it’s time to lace up your trainers and head to Marjan Hill, the city’s green oasis. This lush, wooded hill is a breath of fresh air and offers the best panoramic views of Split and the surrounding sea. This will be one of the highlights of your one day in Split!

You can reach Marjan Hill by heading west from the city center. As you start your ascent, you’ll find paths winding through fragrant pine forests and along scenic viewpoints. Whether you choose to hike, rent a bicycle , or just find a peaceful spot to sit and admire the view, Marjan Hill is the perfect place to connect with nature and escape the buzz of the city for a few hours. Oh, and if you want to witness the sun setting over the ocean, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot to do it from.

Stop 6 – Dinner at Riva Promenade

As the day winds down, make your way to the Riva Promenade for a dinner to remember. This waterfront area is always buzzing in the evening, lined with palm trees and a whole host of lovely restaurants and cafes. If you have time to take a stroll along the dock before dinner you’ll be wowed by the gleaming superyachts moored in the harbour. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how the other half live.

For dinner, consider heading to Fife for a traditional, cozy vibe filled with locals and serving up delicious local dishes at affordable prices. For a more upscale experience, Restaurant Méditerranéev is the go-to spot with its stunning harbor views and fresh catch of the day. No evening meal in Split is complete without trying local favorites like crni rižot (black risotto) or pašticada, a deliciously slow-cooked beef dish. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, and you’ve got the perfect end to your day in Split!

Stop 7 – Enjoy Split’s Nightlife

Not ready to go to sleep just yet? We don’t blame you! Split is one of the top party cities in Europe, so you’d be crazy to miss out on dancing the night away here if you have the energy.  The city comes alive as the sun sets, offering everything from laid-back wine bars to lively clubs, so there’s no excuse not to stay out.

Chill pubs, wine bars, and cocktail lounges are scattered all over the city, and you won’t need to look far to find somewhere cool. If partying is what’s on your mind, though, Club Central or Vanilla Club are the places to be. Both are hotspots for locals and tourists alike, playing all the popular tunes that will keep you dancing till the early hours. Have fun!

Additional Things to Do in Split

Finding yourself with some extra time in the city? No worries – although this one day in Split itinerary covered all of the main things to do in the city, there are a few other things to do to extend your time:

• Visit the Fortress of Klis : The fortress served as one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones.
• Get the bus to the nearby town of Trogir
• Take a kayaking tour
• Go on a local food and wine-tasting tour

Best Time to Visit Split Croatia

When planning your 1-day Split itinerary, timing is everything. The city is a tourist hotspot during the high season, from late May to early September when the sun is shining, the ocean is warm, and the streets are alive with the buzz of bars, restaurants, and clubs.

However, in the off-season , especially from November to March , Split transforms entirely, and turns into a bit of a ghost town! For this reason, it is important to visit Split during the high season for the full experience, or the shoulder season (April-May and September-October) for a more relaxed but still fun experience.

Where to Stay in Split Croatia

Split has a whole host of accommodation options, from budget backpacker hostels all the way to, well, the sky is the limit! If you’re backpacking, solo traveling , or on a super tight budget, you can’t go wrong with the Old Town Hostel . It’s basic, sure, but it’s also super affordable, located right in the Old Town, and very social indeed – perfect if you want to meet a few travel buddies.

For budget accommodation that’s a step up from the hostel experience, look no further than Centro di Centri Rooms . This charming independent hotel has an unbeatable location and cute local decor, perfect for a stay that goes beyond the cookie-cutter budget hotel experience. It’s important to mention that, during the peak summer season, it’s going to be almost impossible to find anything half decent for less than €100 per night. So, for Split in summer, a budget stay will probably set you back around €120/night.

How Many Days Do I Need in Split, Croatia?

In Split, the beauty is in its compact charm. Believe it or not, one day in Split is plenty to get a real taste of what this stunning city has to offer. From wandering through the ancient corridors of Diocletian’s Palace to soaking up the sun on Bačvice Beach and then winding down with a scrumptious dinner at the Riva Promenade, you can pack it all into a single, action-filled day. However, Split isn’t just about the city itself – it’s also the perfect launchpad for island hopping! If you’ve got a bit more time, consider using Split as your base to explore nearby islands like Brač, Hvar, and Vis or cities like Trogir and Zadar on a day trip. Each offers its unique charm!

And don’t forget to save this post for your perfect day in Split Croatia!

Sharing is caring:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

A Guide to Spending a Day in Washington DC during the Cherry Blossom Festival

How to spend 2 days in malaga – itinerary and detailed travel guide, 13 things to do on rainy days in paris, 22 things to do in tobermory ontario: a travel guide, discover more from happy when abroad.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

How to Spend One Day in Split Croatia

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 25, 2023

During a visit to Croatia you very well could make your way through the coastal town of Split. It is a place packed with beautiful ancient attractions alongside an old town, a scenic promenade and stunning viewpoint spots.

This guide will go over how to go about a one day in Split itinerary as well as some of the top things to do and places to see during a visit.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) How to Get into Split

The town of Split is very well connected with the rest of the country (and abroad), as it has an airport, bus station, and ferry terminal.

So, no matter where you may be coming from, spending one day in Split could be a great addition to your overall trip.

If you do not have your own rental car to make your way around, then the following three options should have you covered.

Airport : The Split Airport (SPU) is located just about 30 minutes from town center. You can fly into the airport from places all over Europe including Italy, France, England, Germany, among several others.

You can also fly in from Zagreb if you are heading to the north of country beforehand. From the airport you can hop in a taxi that will get you to downtown Split.

Bus : Croatia is very well connected by local coach busses, and you should have no problem getting from city to city throughout your time in the country.

Whether it be Dubrovnik, Krka, Zadar, Plitvice or even Zagreb, the local busses have you covered. Check out Croatia bus website for the latest schedules and prices.

Ferry : The last main option here is to arrive in Split by ferry from some of the islands located off the coast of Croatia.

While you wont find direct ferries for each and every island, you should be able to find routes from Hvar, Korcula , Brac, Vis, among several others.

Take a look at the Croatia ferries website for more info about the different routes, schedules, and prices.

↔ If you are renting a car in Croatia, be sure to check out Rentalcars.com , which will have a variety of rental options to choose from for your trip.

2) Where to Stay in Split

Since nearly all the attractions and things to do are located centrally in the downtown “Old Town” area, that is where I would recommend you stay during a visit.

This will give you the ability to just head out your hotel door and be right in the center of the action.

You will be close to all the attractions, the top dining options, and the riverfront promenade. This will also take away any hassle of worrying about taxis as everything will be in walking distance.

You can find a whole variety of hotel options around the city – everything from high luxury to cheap hostels. Below are some of my top recommendations by price point.

Mid-Range: Plaza Marchi Old Town | Central Square Heritage Hotel | Art Hotel

Luxury: Piazza Heritage Hotel | Cornaro Hotel | Hotel Luxe

Budget: Palace Augubio | Jupiter Luxury Hotel | Hotel Globo

Be sure to also check out Krka National Park during your time in Split!

3) Split Map and Attractions

Here is a list of the 12 different attractions and things to do during your one day in Split. The remainder of this guide will dive into each one of these.

1) Diocletian’s Palace

2) Saint Domnius Bell Tower

3) Saint Domnius Cathedral

4) Cathedral Crypt

5) Cathedral Treasury

6) Temple of Jupiter Baptistery

7) The Peristyle

8) Vestibul Terrace

10) Riva Promenade

11) Old Town

12) Marjan Hill

» Do you want to explore more of the country? Enjoy this day in Split as part of your longer Croatia Road Trip

4) One Day in Split

Now that you have some solid background about the city, let’s dive into how to spend one day in Split, Croatia.

Below I will list out in more detail the 12 attractions mentioned, along with some helpful info and images along the way.

Diocletian’s Palace

About half of the space that makes up downtown Split, is covered by Diocletian’s Palace. The palace is not one particular building, rather it is a massive complex filled with various Roman ruins.

On each side of this fortress you will find four gates to enter the official Diocletian’s Palace area. Within the complex you will find various ancient structures, a cathedral, bell tower, museums, and more.

Most of the things to do and see in Split are concentrated within Diocletian’s Palace and the below 8 attractions are some of the best places to visit during your one day in Split.

Saint Domnius Bell Tower

The first place I would recommend visiting within Diocletian’s Palace is the Saint Domnius Bell Tower. For a small fee you can head up the narrow staircase to the top of the tower, where you can get 360-degree views of the city.

Down below will be the Old Town of Split and Diocletian’s Palace, with the Adriatic Sea out in front of you. Further out in the distance will be Marjan Hill, another beautiful viewpoint spot, which you can visit later on in the day.

Saint Domnius Cathedral

After finishing up with the Bell Tower, you can head right up to the Saint Domnius Cathedral.

Here you have a couple ticket options to choose from – Blue Ticket (25 KN / $4 USD) includes Cathedral, Crypt and Temple of Jupiter, or Red Ticket (40 KN / $6 USD), which also includes access to the Treasury.

» The Cathedral, Crypt and Treasury are all part of the same structure, while the Temple Of Jupiter is just around the corner.

You can first enter the beautiful cathedral, where you will be welcomed to a beautiful intricate dome shaped structure.

Cathedral Crypt

You can then head follow signs to the crypt, which lays underground underneath the cathedral.

Through some small passageways you will be welcomed to dome shaped labyrinth that takes the shape of the cathedral up above.

Cathedral Treasury

If you purchased the red ticket, you will also have access to the Treasury. You are not allowed to take photos within the treasury, but you can expect to see a whole array of artifacts, garments, and historic relics.

Temple of Jupiter Baptistery

After finishing up with the Cathedral area, it is time to walk around the corner to the Temple of Jupiter Baptistery, which will be included in your ticket.

The temple was originally built around the year 300 dedicated to the Roman god of Jupiter. It was later converted to a baptistery in the 7 th century.

The Peristyle

The main square of Diocletian’s Palace is called the Peristyle and it is located right next to all the above mentioned attractions. You will probably be walking through it multiple times during your visit.

Surrounding the Peristyle will be a whole array of columns, arches and ancient architecture to take in and enjoy.

Vestibul Terrace

One place that I did not read about prior to my visit to Split was the Vestibul Terrace. As you are walking around the Cathedral / Bell Tower/ Baptistery area, you are sure to pass this massive open dome structure.

This is called the Vestibul Terrace and you can actually make your way to the top of the terrace for a small fee to get another great view in from above.

From the top you will enjoy views of the Bell Tower and Cathedral right in front of you and then the rest of the Old Town surrounding you.

4 Gates of Split

As you are exiting and entering the Diocletian’s Palace area, you are sure to make your way through one of the four main gates located on the north, south, east, and west side of the complex.

The palace area never closes so you will be free to walk in and out of it through the gates at any time of day.

Riva Promenade

At one point or another you are sure to make your way to the seaside Riva Promenade.

The promenade is packed with restaurants, bars, stalls, and more as you walk along the water and enjoy all that Split has to offer.

Beyond just Diocletian’s Palace, the main Split area also includes the Old Town. Here you will find many hotels, restaurants, plazas, and walking streets.

Odds are you will be staying in or right near the Old Town, so you will have it all and more right outside your doorstep.

Marjan Hill

Last but not least is the Marjan Hill viewpoint area overlooking Split. At the northside of Split you will see a large greenery covered with a flag pole at its summit.

If you make the climb up to the top, you will be able to take in some of the best views of the city from above. Although it will take up some time (45 minutes or so each way from downtown), it is well worth the view.

» Learn more about the walk up in the Marjan Hill Viewpoint guide that I put together 

That about does it for all the different attractions and activities to take part of during your one day in Split. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to add them in below.

Also, don’t forget to check out the other Croatia itineraries and guides up on the site. Have fun out there and safe travels.

Related posts:

Sharing is caring!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to header right navigation
• Skip to site footer

Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring travel through photography

One Day in Split, Croatia – A Complete Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Wondering what to do with one day in Split, Croatia? We were too, so we went to an expert. Check out this complete 24 Hours in Split itinerary created by Marco Sison, a retirement coach at Nomadic FIRE. See his details below.

For most first-time visitors to Croatia, the star of the Dalmatia region is Dubrovnik. While Split was Croatia’s second-largest city, as Kings Landing on Game of Thrones, the walled Old Town of Dubrovnik still drew all the fanfare and tourists.

Split is no longer content to be in the shadows of its more famous sister city in the south; the city is flexing for its chance to shine. This city, situated right on the Adriatic coast, is quickly becoming the new beach hotspot for first-time visitors and digital nomads in Croatia.

With a UNESCO World Heritage site at the heart of the city center, an amazing promenade, proximity of gorgeous Mediterranean beaches and islands, and lower prices than Dubrovnik , Split is growing past its industrial port city roots and hitting the mainstream. 

First-time visitors to Split will fall in love with the city’s stunning coastline, well-preserved ancient architecture, and vibrant Riva (what Croatians call a seafront promenade).

The first stop on your Croatian adventure should be Split. This city is the perfect introduction to Croatia, and this guide gives you everything you’ll need to see, do, and eat for 24 hours in Split.

A complete one-day Split itinerary

For 24 hours, we are going to focus most of your time in the historic center. The old town area of Split is hands down one of the most beautiful European destinations you will ever visit. The city’s ancient architecture is a feast for the eyes, and its impressive historical sites are a joy to explore.

While a lot of the old town is being renovated to preserve the ruins from the ever-increasing number of tourists pouring into the region, there’s still plenty to see and do for those visiting Split. 

It’s easy to get around the old town and its surrounding areas, and you won’t need a car. Plus, there isn’t any place to park, so I suggest avoiding the hassle of renting a car.

Let’s organize your itinerary in advance so that you can maximize your 24 hours in this amazing city.

One day in Split – morning 

Walk diocletian’s palace and the roman courtyard (peristyle).

The tourist board would have you believe that visiting Croatia is all about the beaches. And yes, the ones on the Adriatic Sea are spectacular. But there’s more to this city than lounging on the sand, swimming in the clear water, and sipping on glasses of Croatian wine.

The heart of Split is the historic center, where the Roman Emperor Diocletian built his retirement palace. 

Diocletian’s Palace, built in the 4th century, is a historical marvel. One of the best examples of Roman architecture outside of Rome, the Palace, built over 1700 years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Centuries before expats flocked to Split to retire, the Roman Emperor Diocletian built this massive Palace for his sanctuary after retirement. As a ruler of the Roman Empire, the palace had to have the qualities of a posh and lavish villa, mashed up with a formidable military presence with fortified walls, imposing watchtowers, and massive gates. 

While the palace walls are extraordinarily well preserved, there is no museum behind velvet ropes or glass. Modern life in Split , with shops, family apartments, and trendy restaurants, is intertwined with history.

You will walk down cobblestoned narrow streets with walls built over nearly 2000 years ago that will have someone’s laundry line with today’s dirty wash hanging above it.

The Palace’s Peristyle, or courtyard, a particularly imposing monument consisting of Corinthian-style columns on one side of the central square and the entrance to what was the Emperor’s mausoleum next to it.

Optional: you can take a 90-min Diocletian Palace Walking Tour

This brings us to our next stop on the one-day itinerary. 

One day in Split – afternoon

Take in the city from the top of saint domnius cathedral’s bell tower.

The Cathedral of Saint Duje (Duje is Domnius in Croatian), built in the 7th century, is the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use in the world. The Romans originally built the cathedral as a mausoleum for Diocletian. Instead, Christians converted the tomb into a church after taking over the city and ransacking the mausoleum.

To this day, the fate and final resting place of Diocletian’s body is a mystery. The remains of Saint Domnius, a Croatian martyr, are buried here instead.

Beautiful views await if you are willing to brave the climb. Two hundred creaky steps take you up to panoramic views of the old town from the top of the 187-foot (57-meter) bell tower. If you are not a fan of heights, tight spaces, and crowds, avoid this attraction during the peak summer months, where throngs of anxious visitors sardine onto the already precarious staircase. 

There is an entrance fee for the cathedral, treasury, and the walk up the bell tower for the view. 

Best destination for lunch

Getting to know the local food is as much a part of a country’s culture as its historical sites. With only 24 hours in Split, go where the locals go. The Konoba Kod Jože, just a five-minute walk from the Palace, is a good example. Catering primarily to local office workers for lunch, Kod Joze is far from tourist fare. Nothing out of the ordinary here, no breathtaking views or intriguing sights, only good home-cooked food!

Try the hearty mixed meat plate for something heavy or the locally caught octopus salad for lighter fare. 

One day in Split – evening

Pass through the golden gate entrance.

After your meal, you will be right next to the Golden Gate, one of the four entrances to the Palace. In front of the gate is a giant statue of Bishop Gregorius of Nin by acclaimed local sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.

Croatian tradition states that rubbing Gregorius’s big toe will bring you good luck for a year. After getting your lucky charm fix, walk through the gate to get to our last stop of the day. 

Take your time and explore the Riva waterfront

The Riva is Split’s iconic seaside promenade. Loved by locals, expats, and tourists alike, the Riva promenade is the start and end of many people’s days. At night, the Riva teems with activity and nightlife.

For now, find a café, take a seat on the bench for a drink, and enjoy the amazing view. Outside the ancient walls of this historic city, time slows as you watch the ferryboats float out of the harbor and the sunset dip over the water and nearby islands. 

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights : we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we love the private guides at Tours by Locals .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article on 24 hours in Split, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

How will you spend 24 hours in Split?

About the author

Marco Sison, a Retirement Coach for Nomadic FIRE, is a trusted source for living abroad and personal finance. He has been featured in USA Today, US News and World Reports, MSN Money, Yahoo Finance, Huffington Post, and many others. Marco writes about personal finance and early retirement overseas  for  Nomadic FIRE .   He has traveled the last six years to over 40 countries to show the best ways to save, invest, and live in amazing countries for 70% less cost than the US. 

You might also like:

• Barcelona Day Trips: Dali Museum and 9 Medieval Towns in Catalonia
• Croatian Desserts and Main Dishes that You Won’t Want to Miss
• Lourdes, France – A Town of Healing Water and Miracles
• 12 Fun Things to Do in Prague – a Mix of Old-world Charm and Innovation

Photo credits:

All photos on this page are supplied by Marco Sison and used with written permission. All rights reserved.

About Albom Adventures Editorial Team

Albom Adventures’ editorial team consists of travel bloggers and other travel writers who periodically provide content to this blog. If would like to join our editorial team, please send us an email via the information on our contact page .

Reader Interactions

June 9, 2021 at 8:42 am

Some lovely photos of a place I’d never heard of! Such a huge, diverse, and fascinating world we live in!

Kathy Kenny Ngo

June 3, 2021 at 6:20 am

I didn’t realize that Croatia was such a beautiful place to go to. Now adding it to my bucket list.

June 2, 2021 at 5:00 am

I have been to Split. It is indeed a very nice place for holiday.

June 2, 2021 at 12:18 am

Split looks amazing, and now I have everything I need to know to plan my visit. Thanks.

rupam xhobdo

June 1, 2021 at 6:36 pm

Looks amazing. Great post.

Kelly Bolen

June 1, 2021 at 2:16 pm

This is awesome! I really need to put Croatia on my bucket list!

June 1, 2021 at 12:43 pm

Oh yes, I would love the beaches but there would be so many more things I would want to see. I’d love to visit Croatia.

Renata Feyen

June 1, 2021 at 9:36 am

I have heard of it, but never been there – seems like an interesting place to visit 🙂

Krysten Quiles

June 1, 2021 at 3:16 am

GORGEOUS. I would love to be able to visit Croatia one day!

Sabina Green

May 31, 2021 at 9:09 pm

This post has just reminded me that I have wanted to visit Croatia for such a long time now. I love the look of those pretty old cobbled streets.

May 31, 2021 at 6:17 pm

Croatia is definitely on my list for when we can safely travel again. Thanks for the tips. I have pinned this post.

May 30, 2021 at 4:22 am

Split is another city that has been on our “To Do List” for far too long! Thanks for the one-day itinerary, but we’re pretty sure we could spend a whole day just exploring the Riva and its shops and cafes! Can’t wait for an opportunity to test that theory. 😉

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Split Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Split itinerary is something that ends up on almost everyone’s to-do list before visiting Croatia. But determining whether to spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Split can be a bit of a challenge when considering all there is to do in and around the city.

Although many tourists are adding this destination to their Croatia itineraries , Split is an amazing city to visit and an excellent base from which to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline.

Its small size and proximity to many other Croatian attractions mean that you can be easily entertained and occupied no matter how long you spend here.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Split?

Even though it is Croatia’s second-largest city, from a tourist perspective, Split is actually quite small and you can easily see all of its main historical sites and attractions in just one day.

However, I would honestly recommend spending a minimum of 2 days in Split. This way, you will be able to see everything that the city has to offer and you could also go on a nearby day trip or spend some time at the beach.

If you have 3 days to spend, this is even better. This will ensure that you can get to all of the highlights within the city, see some of the towns and attractions within the closest proximity to Split and even get out to some of the further-flung day trips from Split.

Using Split as a base to explore southern Croatia and even parts of Bosnia & Herzegovina means that you could choose to spend however much or little time you might have to devote to your itinerary.

Getting To & Around Split

Like most elsewhere in the Balkans, Croatia does not have an extensive rail network and therefore train connections into Split are few and far between.

There is one train that runs from Zagreb , but it is neither frequent nor commonly used. My suggestion when you visit Split is to do as the locals do and hop on a much faster and more comfortable bus.

There are frequent connections both domestically and internationally and the network runs quite efficiently.

The fact that Split is a massive transport hub means that there are routes connecting the city to numerous other places in Croatia (such as Zadar and Dubrovnik ) and in neighbouring Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina and some even further. You can browse schedules for many bus companies here .

The Split bus station is also located incredibly close to the Split Old Town and you can easily get from there to anywhere in the city without too much travel time.

Split is also home to its own international airport that serves several different airlines and effectively connects the city across Europe and beyond. This means that it is quite easy to visit Split as a short weekend or city break.

The Split airport is located about 25 kilometres from the city centre and there are frequent buses that connect the two. It is also possible to take a relatively affordable Uber or Bolt ride to your accommodation without worrying about breaking the bank.

Split is also a major ferry port and you can visit a range of beautiful island destinations in Croatia (such as Brac, Korcula and Hvar island ) and even some connections to Ancona in Italy.

Once you’re in the city, you will find that it is compact and easy to navigate and explore Split on foot. In fact, if you’re just planning on visiting the city and not embarking on any day trips, you will find that you don’t need to rely on any other transport other than your own two feet. However, if you’re staying for longer and want to visit places outside the city of Split, you will find it easiest to rent a car.

Driving in Croatia is straightforward and the roads are well-maintained. While you can opt to take the bus to more mainstream and well-trafficked day trips from Split, it is far easier to visit multiple places in one day with your own vehicle and it will also allow you more flexibility.

If you are planning on renting a car in Croatia, we recommend using RentalCars.com to find deals on car hires across many available companies.

It can also be a good idea to take out a third-party excess insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance to save money on high prices for insurance from the rental car company while also ensuring that you won’t have to pay a deductible should any damage happen to the car.

1, 2 or 3-Day Split Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know before heading to Croatia’s second-largest city, it’s time to dive right into the perfect Split itinerary! No matter if you’re planning to spend one day or want to see Split in 3 days or more, follow this itinerary with each successive day to ensure that you have a great trip to this Adriatic gem of a city!

Day 1 – Diocletian’s Palace, Riva & Marjan Hill

If you only have one day in Split, spend it in Split’s old town and Diocletian’s palace area (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) taking in all of the main sites.

Cathedral of St Domnius

The best first stop is the Cathedral of St Domnius. As the main Catholic Cathedral in Split, this church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is the seat of the Archdiocese of Split-Makarska. Located in the centre of Diocletian’s Palace, it is one of the most distinct buildings in the old town of Split.

What makes this church unique is that it once served as the mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Diocletian — for which the palace was constructed for him to live out his retirement. The oldest part of the cathedral, the part that was once the mausoleum, dates back to the 3rd Century CE.

If you want to get some of the best views of Split and the harbour, then make sure to climb up the bell tower.

You do have to pay to do this and though there aren’t too many stairs in the bell tower, however, be aware that some of them are quite slick and steep.

Jupiter’s Temple

After enjoying the Cathedral, head over to Jupiter’s Temple — another remnant from Diocletian that was then later repurposed for the Christian takeover.

Originally a temple for the god Jupiter (Zeus) — from whom Diocletian believed he was descended — the building was then repurposed into a Catholic baptistry.

The structure itself is quite small and is located in front of the temple, where you can also see one of the two Egyptian sphinxes that Diocletian imported from Egypt. The other, which is more intact, can be seen in the square in front of the cathedral.

Fish Market

After taking in these historical sites, it’s time to browse something very dear to Croatian culture, a local market! And in the centre of Diocletian’s Palace lies a thriving fish market where locals can hawk their fresh catch. This is an excellent place to see what is native to the Adriatic waters and to see where locals source their seafood.

The market is open daily from 6 AM to early afternoon, however, it is worth noting that it’s least active on Mondays. This is because most fishermen don’t go out on Sundays and therefore there is no fresh catch to sell the next day.

You can see all these sights and also learn more about the history of Split and Diocletian’s Palace by taking this walking tour with a local guide . And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may love this tour of the show’s filming locations .

Green Market

Visiting local markets is one of the best ways to get an insight into local cultures and it’s one of my favourite things to do wherever I visit, and Split is no exception!

Not far from the old town lies the Green Market, an expansive fruit and vegetable market where you can get everything from local produce, cheese, flowers, homemade wine and rakija and much more.

If anything, I would recommend skipping the typical souvenir shops and browsing through this area to find something unique to bring home. You also have the added benefit of supporting a local vendor!

After a morning of sightseeing, it’s time to stop for a bit of lunch. There are lots of places to eat in Split, but not everything is of the same quality.

If you are looking to chow down on some local fare away from the tourist traps, however, I recommend finding a table at Villa Spiza . This locally-run restaurant tucked away in a quiet alley serves delicious local seafood at affordable prices with friendly and attentive service. It is local and tasty and highly recommended.

If you’re after something a bit more on the fast-food side but still using fresh local ingredients, then you can’t go wrong with Zlatna Ribica . This fried fish bar is located close to the fish market, so you can see where they source their produce from! It is affordable, quick, and super popular with locals.

If you want to learn more about Split cuisine, then you can consider taking a food tour.

After lunch, work off all that food with a leisurely stroll down Riva, the newly renovated seaside promenade.

This area is completely pedestrianised and lined with open-air cafes and benches and there are also some local vendors that have stalls set up. This is a great place to browse for some unique souvenirs or just lounge and people-watch.

Marjan Park

After spending most of your day exploring the old town and Diocletian’s Palace area, it’s time to work up a bit of a sweat and head to Marjan Park, a hilltop park area that is located to the west of the city centre.

Construction on the hill has been banned by the Croatian government and provides a rare solace from the rapidly-changing Dalmatian coast.

You can hike up to several beautiful viewpoints in the park to se Split and its surrounding islands. The highest point at the top of the hill, the Telegrin viewpoint, offers the best views of the area. This easy city hike is one of the best things to do in Split.

The lower Vidilica viewpoint near the Jewish cemetery has better views of the old town itself and there is also a nice cafe there.

After enjoying a sunset view from Marjan Park, it’s time to end the day by heading to dinner. We recommend eating at the trendy Bokeria .

This place serves absolutely delicious modern Croatian cuisine at agreeable prices. The service is fantastic, as is the wine list.

Located in Diocletian’s Palace, it is also worth it to go for a short stroll through the city streets once the sun goes down and enjoy the beauty of Split by night.

Day 2 – Trogir, Omiš & Beach Time

If you have 2 days in Split, spend your second day on an excursion to a nearby town or two. Or else, if the weather is fine, head to the beach and soak up the beautiful sunshine!

One of the most popular day trips from Split is to the UNESCO-listed island town of Trogir. Located only about 30 kilometres from Split’s city centre and actually very close to the Split International Airport, this is a great place to reach by bus as well if you haven’t rented a car on your trip.

Trogir is an absolutely charming and historic town located on its own island that is accessible by a small bridge from the mainland. The town is small but will instantly take you in by its beauty.

Take the time to wander around its lovely seaside promenade and maybe stop for a coffee, drink or ice cream and watch the people go by and the boats come in and out of the harbour.

You can reach Trogir in about 30-45 minutes by car from Split and buses leave frequently from the main bus station, as well. If you want to save money on parking, make sure to find a spot in a lot before you cross the bridge into the town itself.

You can also visit Trogir by taking an organised tour or alternatively, if you have your own transport, take a 1.5-hour walking tour when you arrive to learn more about the town.

Another close-by yet more off-beat day trip from Split is the lovely town of Omiš, which is located 30 kilometres south of Split. Though this town is small, it is absolutely lovely and worth venturing down to visit it.

Known for its dramatic cliffs that jut into the harbour and also for its great beaches, this is the perfect place to visit if you want to avoid hordes of tourist crowds and just see a charming Croatian seaside town that holds onto its local feel.

There are some great places for swimming and also some good cafes, so plan to linger. You can also take a half-day tour to nearby Cetina River for rafting if you’re feeling more adventurous!

Though there aren’t any beaches in the immediate city centre of Split, you don’t have to venture far to find a place to lay out your towel or grab a lounging spot on the water.

The majority of Split’s beaches are pebble or rock, so don’t go in expecting soft white sand, however, the water is clear, calm and warm in the summer and early autumn months (the latter of which is arguably the best time to visit Split) so it is an ideal place to go swimming.

The most popular beaches in Split include Bacvice and Firule. There are also some lesser-visited beaches located at the foothills of Marjan Park. You can also go on a boat tour to some swimming spots and islands if you prefer to spend the day on the sea!

Day 3 – Krka National Park & Šibenik

If you have 3 days in Split, spend it on a longer day trip to some places that lie further afield. These two options can be done in one day and make for an excellent day out from the city, especially if the weather is warm.

Krka National Park

Krka National Park is one of the most popular places to visit from Split and it is also one of the most beautiful natural sites in Croatia. A bit like a smaller version of the wildly popular a busy Plitvice Lakes National Park , Krka is closer to Split, more affordable to enter and also allows you to swim in its inviting waters.

Noted for its dramatic waterfalls, no visit to Split is complete without venturing to Krka. Located about an hour’s drive north of the city centre, it is also reachable by bus or private tour. This small-group tour that combines Krka & Šibenik is a fantastic option if you don’t have your own car.

Located about 10 kilometres from Krka National Park and about 80 kilometres north of Split, Šibenik is one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Croatia and the perfect place to visit on your Split itinerary.

Šibenik is a small and charming town located directly on the Adriatic that is packed with beautiful, winding streets and some great restaurants to eat at, as well.

Due to their proximity, it is really easy to combine a trip to Šibenik with a visit to Krka National Park and be able to get the most out of both.

Šibenik is best visited without a plan and you will find that you will be duly rewarded if you just let your feet lead you where they will and let yourself wander through its incredibly picturesque cobbled streets in the old town.

You can reach Šibenik by bus from Split and by car in about 1 – 1.5 hours.

Have More Time?

If you have more in Split, consider spending more time on some of the great day trips that you can do. For instance, Split is the main hub for ferries to many Dalmatian islands, meaning that planning a day trip to the islands of Hvar , Brač or Šolta is easy to do.

If you want to see more of the Balkans and experience a different culture and learn more about the history of this complex region, then consider going on a day trip to the town of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

You also can visit some of the other highlights of southern Bosnia including Blagaj monastery and Kravice waterfalls along the way.

Where to Stay in Split

Kastel 1700 Boutique Hotel – This 3-star hotel is a great choice for mid-range visitors to Split. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with an excellent location perfect for exploring all Croatia’s second city has to offer.

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites  – A fantastic option for those looking for luxury accommodation in Split, this centrally located boutique hotel is a great choice for couples or those looking for a plush escape in Split. They have spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms available and there is a great breakfast included.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  – This backpacker’s hostel is the ideal choice for budget and solo travellers alike. They have great common areas for meeting other like-minded travellers, a helpful staff, and clean facilities. They offer both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other options in Split

Split has a lot to offer visitors not only as a great base to explore Dalmatia but as an interesting destination in its own right. Planning out the ideal Split itinerary is sure to give you a Croatian holiday to remember. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Split or are using it as a base to explore the region, you’re sure to fall in love with this city.

Are you planning to visit Split? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Is Dubrovnik Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Dubrovnik

7 Best Places to Stay in Hvar for Tourists

Is Croatia Expensive? Croatia Trip Cost Guide in 2024

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

One day to spend outside of Split. Got to Togir and Omis or visit Krka and Sibernik?

It really depends on what you’re after as they’re all great options. If you’re keen to simply explore some historic towns, then go to Trogir and Omis. If you want some natural scenery, head to Krka. It also can be weather-dependent 🙂

Thank you Maggie for your excellent introduction of Split to me, a first timer to Split on 2-6 June after my business trip in Amsterdam. While I will follow your itinerary, I am considering an inclusion of a day trip. Which one is better in terms of attractiveness, value for money and convenience: a trip to Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge or a day trip to Dubrovnik? Thanks very much!

I would personally recommend heading to Mostar if you only have time for a day trip. We have a guide on this here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/split-to-mostar-day-trip/

Excellent information and easy to digest,

Thanks, Diana! Hope you have a great time in Split 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

One Day in Split Itinerary – Best of Split in one day

Love it? Share it!

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia , and the biggest on the Dalmatia coast. If you are heading to Split via a cruise, road tripping the Balkans , or staying for an extended period of time – we got you covered with an easy-to-follow itinerary, plus ideas for day trips from Split.

One day in Split Itinerary: City highlights & hidden gems

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Is one day in Split enough?

In order to explore Split’s historical landmarks, one day is good enough. As you follow this itinerary, you will see how effortlessly you can reach all the iconic attractions on foot, with some extra time for a short hike or walk to the beach.

We have included 2 itinerary samples so that you can modify it based on your interests. This post also includes day trips from Split, if you are extending your stay. 

Arriving in Split for one day itinerary

The Riva Promenade is the most important point in the city of Split (aside from the 1700 Roman old town heritage) for transport and sightseeing. It is the seafront promenade of the city. 

Once you arrive at the promenade the old town attractions are just a few steps away; this is where the cruise liners dock and the central bus station also is located nearby. 

• Bus: There are tons of buses available from Croatia or nearby Balkan states to Split. Some routes can be longer than others and may involve border crossings (if traveling from outside of Croatia or from further south like Dubrovnik) . It is an affordable mode of transport, safe and reliable. We highly recommend booking tickets online to save money and secure your reservation. Consider carrying a printed copy as most bus operators might request it. 
• Road trip/drive: Split is an awesome road trip stop from north to the southern part of Croatia. From Mostar and Sarajevo (cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina), you can easily road trip/drive to Split. Ensure you let the car rental agency know about your travel plans, as additional fees may apply. Note there will be additional time required at the border crossing.
• Flying: Split Airport, also known as Resnik Airport serves the city of Split and Trogir. The airport is about 19 km from the city centre. 

Split Riva Promenade

The Riva is the seafront promenade – pedestrian heaven, lined with cafes and restaurants. It is an amazing place to start and end your one day in Split itinerary. So, mark this spot for dinner and drinks in the evening.

It literally is the living room of the city of Split. You can meet people, ride a bike, stroll, take in sea views, eat and drink and feel the vibrant spirit of Split!

Walking tour of the Old City Split

Once you arrive at the Riva Promenade, without further ado, start exploring. 

Stroll and wander the well preserved old town of Split with edifices from the Roman and Venetian area. As you walk the old squares, shop or window shop local goods, stop for snacks or photos. 

There are guided walking tours of 1 – 2 hours in duration to explore the historic old town. Click to view this highly re commended walking tour

If you wish to explore on your own, grab a sightseeing map from the Riva – Tourist Board Centre. 

Pusti me da prodjem or ‘Let me pass’ lane

Split old town has tiny cobblestoned lanes. We found them to be pretty, and so well maintained. But they could get overcrowded during peak seasons and may not be that fun navigating it.

It is impossible to lose your way, whichever exit you take you will find old town gems. Note they may not be that comfortable if you are carrying luggage or stroller.

Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace is probably the MOST recognizable image of Split globally. It stands mighty tall in the middle of Split’s historic core. 

You can enter the Palace from multiple gates, but from the Riva promenade, it is the most easily accessible by the Bronze Gate entrance. As soon as you can spot the columns, you will be mesmerized at the grand structure and sphinxes!

(The Palace is spread over 31000 square meters, and has 4 gates – iron, bronze, gold, and silver.)

Diocletian’s Palace is a stunningly well-preserved 4th-century Roman architectural complex. Although popularly known as the ‘palace’, it was actually a summer retreat for Emperor Diocletian. There are only a few apartment rooms that were partially restored. There is a vestibule leading to the cellar at the palace. 

Diocletian’s Palace was once upon a time adorned with 3500-year-old graphite sphinxes, today you can only find 3 of them. The one in front of Jupiter’s Temple will definitely catch your attention.

Two of them are on the square, and another one is stored in the Split City Museum. 

As you can see, many of its features and structures have been preserved for centuries, and today is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site (listed since 1979). The popular sitcom Game of Thrones was shot here. You can also take a GoT inspired guided tour in Split.

Split City Museum

Located in the northeastern part of the Palace, Split City museum showcases paintings, sculptures, and weapons from the 12th to 14th centuries. It is featured in a medieval Renaissance complex with a beautiful courtyard where many artifacts are staged/displayed. 

Peristil Square

Located right in front of the Diocletian’s Palace is the Peristil Square. This was a Roman court in the old days. This is a perfect spot to photograph the palace itself. 

You can enjoy a drink or two at the Luxor cafe, soaking the sun on the square steps and admiring the Diocletian’s Palace.

Temple of Jupiter

Dedicated to the Ancient Roman god Jupiter, the Temple of Jupiter is located in the western part of Diocletian’s Palace. Today it is the cathedral’s baptistery area, and it has maintained its original shape and grandeur. 

Cathedral of Saint Domnius

The Cathedral of Saint Domnius is another best-preserved Roman structure in Split. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Split-Makarska, headed by Archbishop Marin Barišić. 

The octagonal bell tower is the city’s iconic symbol. You would notice the Campanile of the Cathedral from the Riva.

  The cathedral was built in 305 CE as the Mausoleum of Diocletian. The Cathedral, the treasures, the bell tower, and the crypt are open for visitors. Entry fee 25 kunas .  

The People’s Square or the Pjaca

On the west end of the Peristyle, is the huge Pjaca or the People’s Square. At this square, you will see the stunning intermixed of Renaissance, Venetian, and Gothic architectural buildings. 

At the square, you will find the Ethnographic Museum of Split, Town Hall – Gradska vijećnica (built in Renaissance style), and many open cafes!

The square is home to a Romanesque clock (similar to Dubrovnik) , which has been functioning for centuries with a medieval sundial in front of a larger, older belfry. The square and every building standing on the Pjaca has a story to tell and is a testimony of its historical existence.

Statue of Grgur Ninski or Gregory of Nin and Golden Gate

As you leave (or enter) the old town core, you will see a huge statue. It is the statue of a 10th-century Croatian bishop, Grgur Ninski, who fought for the right to use old Croatian in liturgical services instead of Latin. 

The statue is made up of bronze and is 28 feet tall (8.5 metres). It is believed that if you rub his giant toes, it brings good luck. I was lucky to have done that, unknowingly! 

This statue was sculpted by Ivan Meštrović in 1929, and was originally placed near the Diocletian’s Palace, but was taken down and moved during the Second World War by Italian forces. 

The gate leading to the Gregory of Nin statue is called the Golden Gate, this is the grandest entrance to the Palace. It is “the northern gate” that leads to the stari grad or old town of Split .

Stroll the markets in Split

In the old town, there are many markets selling local produce and fish!

At Marmontova Street, you will find the local’s favorite Fish Market Split.  This fish market or Ribarnica is known to be fly-free. There are restaurants and cafes at Marmontova Street, stop for lunch or grab a drink!

Near the Silver Gate, you will easily locate a green market – fruits and vegetables, called the Pazar Market. Pazar Greenmarket with fruits and vegetables is on the part closer to the ferry port.

You can explore both effortlessly, and add it in one day in Split itinerary. From the Ribarnica fish market (pass over People’s Square), and enter the Iron gate of Diocletian palace, to the Silver Gate, and then to Pazar Green market. 

Marjan Hill 

Marjan is a 123-metre hill on the peninsula of the city of Split. Exploring this (via hiking trails) along with the other attractions like the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments and Mestrovic Gallery, are perfect if you are staying for an extended period of time in Split. 

For one day, if time permits, you can try to take the hill stairs for some sunset views. Followed by dinner and drinks at one of the cafes by the Riva Promenade. 

An alternative one day Split itinerary option is to explore Marjan Hill and nearby beaches. You can split time between the old town (a 1.50 hour walking tour to cover the city’s highlights) and then head to the beach after. 

These activities are also perfect for the second day in Split. 

Zvoncac Beach 

Zvoncac is a pebble beach on the south side of Marjan. This beach is the nearest to the old town and is perfect for a day out.

More things to do in one day in Split

Museum of croatian archaeological monuments .

The Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments is a 19th-century museum and the only one in the country where cultural artifacts of the Croats from the 7th and 15th centuries are being displayed. 

The museum complex is newly built in, late 1970’s, and it showcases jewelry, weapons, stone artifacts, etc. 

Mestrovic Gallery

This art museum is dedicated to Ivan Meštrović. He is the same sculptor who created the statue of Grgur Ninski or Gregory of Nin. At the gallery, there are displays of his work of art, sculpture, drawings, design, furniture, and architecture. 

The Kaštelet-Crikvine chapel is located near the gallery, and it is home to wooden wall panels carved by Ivan Meštrović himself. 

Bene Beach 

Bene, a stone beach on the south side of Marjan. Accessible by public transport (car only with a special pass). There are showers and changing rooms. It’s one of the most popular Split beaches in this part of the city.

Bacvice Beach

Bacvice Beach is another convenient beach, located right in front of the Bacvice restaurant-nightlife complex. This beach is quite popular and gets pretty crowded during peak seasons. 

Ideas for Day trips from Split

One of the best things about Split is its accessibility to explore islands and other unique landscapes through day trips. Here are a recommended few – 

Bisevo Blue cave

The Bisevo Blue Cave is a dazzling sea cave, located in the central Dalmatian archipelago. This waterlogged natural gem, amidst stunning scenery, makes it a popular day tour option from Split. 

Being in a remote location, it is a good idea to explore the Blue Grotto or Blue via a day tour. You can also combine stops in Hvar town/islands of Hvar. 

Krka National Park 

Another popular day trip option from Split is the Krka National Park. It is in the Sibenik part of Dalmatia and takes about 1.25 to 1.50 hours to reach the national park from Split.

The national park is known for the stunning river of the same name, Krka River. Other than the stunning waters, the dense national park is home to a multifaceted ecology and habitat. It is home to a diverse species and subspecies of flora and fauna. 

Click to view a day tour from Split to Krka National Park with wine tasting

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its cascading terraced waterfalls. The park is much larger than Krka National Park and is a popular road trip stop when traveling from Zagreb to the Dalmatia Coast.

The distance from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park is about 3+ hours one way. Buses take more time, 3.50 to 4 hours one way, with multiple schedules all days of the week. 

Swimming is not allowed here; you can swim at the Krka National Park though. 

Mostar Bosnia & Herzegovina 

To make the most of your time in Split, and to extend your Croatia itinerary you can add a day trip to the nearby country of Bosnia & Herzegovina. 

Mostar and the Kravice waterfall makes for an easy trip from Split ( than Dubrovnik ), which takes about 3.50 hours drive one way. There are day tours and buses available if you do not wish to drive yourself. We recommend a tour, as the bus journeys could take longer. 

Mostar is a beautiful medieval city in the southern (warm) part of Bosnia & Herzegovina, famed for the gorgeous Stari Most bridge. Enjoy a day wandering through the bazaars, learning about Mostar’s tragic tale during the 1990’s siege, and end the day at the Kravice waterfall before returning to Split. Note that border crossing is required, so carry your passport.

Check out this day tour from Split to Mostar

Travel Tips for Split one day itinerary

Split is located in Croatia , a Balkan country (southeastern part of Europe ). 

Currency: HRK or Croatian Kunas. Conversion: 1 USD = 7.10 HRK/Croatian Kuna 

Travel Visa : No visa is required for the EU, the US, or Canadian visitors to stay up to 90 days. Multiple Schengen visas are required for those traveling to Europe/Schengen visa. For a detailed guide to Schengen visa, click here

Croatia is part of the European Union, but not a Schengen zone member yet. 

Hotel recommendation : If you are staying overnight in Split or extending your stay, we recommend staying in the old town area as it will make accessibility/transport easy for you.

• St Luke Heritage Hotel : St Luke Heritage Hotel is a 5-star hotel, located near the historic St Luke’s chapel, and the iconic Deocletean’s palace makes it a perfect place for the night or two. Check out this luxe hotel here. 
• Villa Scalaria:  Villa Scalaria is a 4-star residence, situated near the old town. It offers free wifi and parking for its guests. The rooms were big and clean.  View prices and reviews for Villa Scalaria here. 

Browse for Split hotels + deals in Old Town here

Pin: How to spend one day in Split: Itinerary and Guide

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Similar Posts

2 Days in Vienna Itinerary: Experience Vienna in 48 hours

Vienna is the beautiful capital city of Austria. On a weekend in Vienna, we were able to enjoy the city’s top highlights as well as experience some of the most memorable evenings. Continue on to read about our experience in Vienna in 48 hours. This post includes travel tips, sightseeing, and a hotel guide for…

Perfect 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary to see it all

Looking for the perfect 10 days in Croatia itinerary to see it all? You are at the right place! Tucked between central and eastern Europe, Croatia is a picturesque country blessed with breathtaking natural scenery. From its stunning national parks to marvelous beaches and numerous islands dotted along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is sure to…

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Road Trip | Train & Tours

Looking for the perfect 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary? Well, you are at the right spot. Portugal is one of our favorite European destinations. And in this post, you will find informative tips and insights on exploring Portugal in 14 days with or without a car! From the timeless capital of Lisbon to the incredible…

Zurich to Lauterbrunnen Day Trip Itinerary

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. It is one of the most beautiful and serene places in Europe that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. In this travel guide, we will share an epic Zurich to Lauterbrunnen day trip itinerary to see all the…

Perfect 4 Day Paris Itinerary for all seasons

Our 4 day Paris itinerary was about falling in love with Paris – all over again. I love Paris and I fell in love with Paris even before we met and after having spent a few days – this love affair continues to grow. Thomas Jefferson summed up my feelings about Paris. To quote, “A…

One Day in Belfast Itinerary: See Belfast in a day

Planning a trip to the birthplace of the Titanic? Here is the perfect one day in Belfast itinerary that checks off the important landmarks, and sites. Even if you have just a day in Belfast, be assured it will be a wonderful experience that will leave you wanting to come back again. That said, in…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

One Day In Split – Fun Family Itinerary Of Top Things To Do

Spending a full day in Split, Croatia is easy and fun because there are so many wonderful activities to do that are perfect for anyone!

If your Croatia travels call for some time in Split you can be sure to enjoy a variety of sights even if you only plan a day on your itinerary.

It might be better to spend 2 or 3 days in Split but we can give you some additional bonus ideas to plan if you end up staying a bit longer! You may just want to!

Split is a beautiful city in Croatia, and it’s one that offers plenty of activities to enjoy. Split offers an endless amount of things to do that will keep you busy for days on end!

You can explore the famous Diocletian Palace, take a boat ride around the ancient walls of the city and visit many monuments and sights!

No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in this historic place!

What Your Day In Split Should Include:

• Exploring Old Town
• Hiking Marjan Forest Hill
• Relax at the beach
• Night out at the Riva

1. Split Old Town

Split is a very historical city which makes it incredibly interesting to explore.

Split’s Diocletian Palace, for example, was built in the early fourth century and today Split uses this palace as a center of attraction.

Walking around an emperor’s old residence is an exhilarating experience to say the least.

The ancient palace, that’s more like a small city, is now the Old Town of Split where visitors can roam through the inside the fortress-like walls and try to imagine how it may have been when it was built in the turn of the 4th century.

That may be a bit hard to do considering how much it has changed with the addition of shops and eateries that occupy the lower levels of the ancient buildings.

However, the structures are so magnificent that they demand attention even through all of the distractions and walking tourists. 

Here are some of the most popular spots to check out while you are visiting Split Old Town:

• The Crypt –   Split has a number of interesting crypts, but this one is perhaps the most important. It’s located under the Saint Domnius Cathedral. Split’s patron saint, Saint Dujam or Domnius was buried here in the fourth century.  The crypt is still used for religious services today, so it’s necessary to be respectful of this when you visit. 
• The Vestibule is a large open space in the Saint Domnius Cathedral. It has a high dome ceiling with spire windows. It is one of Croatia’s most famous architectural feature.
• The Podrum –  Under the Vestibule you will walk through an arched underground market that is a perfect place for some souvenir shopping
• Jupiter’s Temple – A roman temple dedicated to the Ancient Roman god Jupite. You will notice an Egyptian sphinx at the entrance. This is just one of the 12 that Dioceltian purchased and had delivered from Exypt for his palace decor.
• Voćni trg (Fruit square) actually has the official name of  Trg Braće Radić   which means Square of the Radić brothers. The square is highlighted by an octagonal Venetian tower and a statue of the Croatian poet Marko Marulić.
• Pazar farmers market : this outdoor market is a great place for some local souvenirs as well as delicious fruits and snacks!
• Stroll in the  Park Josipa Jurja Strossmayera – this park provides a getaway from the hsssle and bussle and is quite peaceful especially in the early morning hours.
• Trg Republike & Prokurative – Republic Square is a spacious, open square surrounded on three sides by the Prokurative which are a collection of elaborate neo-Renaissance buildings inspired by 19th century architecture in Venice. If you stand in the center of the square you will be presented with a lovely view of the harbor on the southern side.

Take A Tour:

• Walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Diocletian Palace in Split
• Diocletian Palace Walking Tour with optional Wine and food Tasting
• Private Split walking tour

2. Marjan Forest Hill Hike

After exploring the Old Town of Split you’ll want to grab a heart y snack for the hill hike. We suggest trying the local burek at St. Burek right inside the old city walls.

Once you’ve had this delicious dish, you’ll be energized to hike up the 314 steps that lead to the top of Marjan Hill.

The path’s entrance is pretty much at the end of the Riva as you walk towards  Marjan Hill .

We happened to take the back way up which started more on the northern side of the hill. It was a bit more “naturey” and gave us views of the other side of the water.

Having said that, you should know that there is more than one way up. The paths do link up so if you feel adventurous you can go off the main path.

It can take two and a half hours to do the hike up, so prepare for your time up. It’s not a very difficult hike and you have opportunities along the way to rest and take in the views.

3. Beaches Of Split To Enjoy

Hitting the beach was one of the first things we did upon arrival in Split.

One suggestion we have for visiting the beach is to go in the morning or in the afternoon. This was a tip given to us by a local and it was pretty smart.

After your Marjan Hill hike, you’ll want to relax those leg muscles either by laying out under the sun or splashing into the sea.

Either way, there are a couple of beaches to suit your needs.

You can enjoy some sun and splash in the sea at Bacvice Beach. This beach is popular with both tourists and locals.

Bacvice Beach is located on the west end of Split, Croatia. It’s about a 20 minute walk from Diocletian palace or you can take the Split bus number 12 from Split to Bacvice Beach.

The walking track is a bit rough for those not used to walking on gravel and sand, so we suggest having water shoes on.

Bacvice Beach is a good size, not too big but still enough people that it feels lively and fun.

Just to the east of Bacvice is Firule Beach. You can actually walk there via the pathway along the water. This is a pebble beach and has a restaurant and changing stations.

Some things to note about the beaches in Split:

• There are lots of restaurants on the beach
• There is some sand but mostly pebbles and even cement along the water. You will see people laying on towels on the cement but some bring cushioned mats.
• There are places you can jump off into the water
• Chaise lounges and umbrellas are available to rent

4. The Riva – Promenade Nightlife

After relaxing on the beach and recharging, it’s time to hit the Riva in the evening.

The promenade along the harbor becomes alive at night. People tend to eat dinner pretty late so don’t worry if you show up around 8 or 9pm.

There are tons of restaurants to choose from in the promenade.

You might want to eat at some of the other local restaurants we’ll mention below if you don’t want to have overpriced touristy-type food along the Riva.

However, the Riva is a great place for drinks and people watching during the summer.

There are also some great gelaterias for dessert if you want to just grab a snack and enjoy it on the benches lined by palm trees along the water’s edge.

Top Restaurants In Split

This is a list of our favorite eateries in Split based on quality of food and fair prices, not to mention, exceptional service!

We only wrote the one thing that stands out at each location aside from the above mentioned qualities.

• Nevera Tavern – Best seafood
• Dvor – Most beautiful views
• Pizzeria Bokamorra – Best pizza
• Apetit – location Inside Old Town

Here’s where you should stay:

• Marvie Hotel
• Royal Suites

What Should I Do In 2 Days In Split?

This is a trip that has it all!

A visit to the fort in Split where you can see some of the season 7 filming locations for Game of Thrones is a must if you have an extra day.

The Klis  Fortress, Tvrđava Klis, is a medieval  fortress  situated just outside of the city with gorgeous views to say the least.

Visiting islands  like Broc with crystal clear water and beaches can also be a great added itinerary for the second day in Split.

You can easily ferry over (even take a rental car) from the harbor and have a quick island getaway!

Exploring Krka Waterfall on one of Croatia’s most popular day trips. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, go ahead and book your  tour tickets  now!

Tips For Visiting Split

Split is one of the most popular destinations in all of Croatia because it’s home to some incredible sites.

But, you can’t visit any place for just 1 day and expect to see everything worth seeing. However, 1 day in Split can be enough if you plan it right.

We tried to do our best to give you a few ideas on how to spend your time wisely when visiting this beautiful city!

If you’re only spending 24 hours here, make sure that these attractions are on your itinerary.

This way, you’ll be able to get the best out of Split without feeling like there wasn’t enough time (or money) spent exploring this wonderful destination!

Split, Croatia’s second largest city and the country’s unofficial capital of culture, is one of Europe’s most welcoming cities, so it is certainly worth visiting.

The old town offers a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy, and there are plenty more activities in the surrounding area that will keep you busy all day long.

If your time in Split is limited or if you’re not sure what to do when visiting this thriving coastal metropolis we recommend using our itinerary above as inspiration!

One question that might be on your mind if you are deciding whether to visit Split or Dubrovnik is which one would be better. It’s hard to really pick one or the other.

But one thing to note is that  Dubrovnik is a better city to only spend a day  in because there is not as much to do there.

Though there is more to do in Split it does offer a much more variety of activities so you have more choices on how to spend your time.

Croatia (for the most part) isn’t off the beaten path so you can expect it to be quite busy in Split with tourists, especially during the summer season.

That being said, you know it’s not going to be a low budget destination, but it also doesn’t have to be super expensive either.

Staying outside the Old Town and Riva will get you reasonable priced restaurants and hotels.

Another thing to note is that it’s easy to shop for things you may need at the small grocery stores and markets so no need to pack too much!

Taiss Nowrouzi

Taiss Nowrouzi is a writer, photographer, and social media influencer with a passion for dance on the side. Taiss has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from San Diego State University. After over a decade in the hotel business, including five years in the management, she left the corporate world to pursue a life of a digital nomad.

• Taiss Nowrouzi on Facebook
• Taiss Nowrouzi on LinkedIn
• About Taiss Nowrouzi

Check out these articles:

Ultimate 5 Day Playa Del Carmen Itinerary: Week In Paradise

Playa Del Carmen Safety Guide: Tips For Safe Travel In 2024

Ultimate Playa Del Carmen Travel Guide For Visiting In 2024

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hi! We’re Rob and Taiss. We set off to live a life in as many places as possible. To actually live in locations around the world long enough to get to know the locals, the culture, and the food, not just a taste of it.

Our Partners

Trending Posts

How To Get To Chichen Itza From Playa Del Carmen In 2024

Ultimate 2 Week Mexico Itinerary: Explore The Yucatan Peninsula And Beyond

5 Best Beaches In Playa Del Carmen: Our Top Picks For 2024

This site uses affiliates. Thank you for buying through our links and supporting this blog.

Split itinerary – best things to do in Split in 1, 3, 5 & 7 days

• August 23, 2022
• Croatia , Europe

I’ve been to Split more times than I can count (the first time I was still a baby!) and I can’t recommend it enough. This is one of my favorite cities in Croatia and I even entertained the thought of moving here! With each visit I keep discovering new beautiful corners, hip new bars as well as returning to some of my favorites, like the old city center.

Split itinerary overview – the best of Split, Croatia

How many days in split, where to stay in split, a) the chill way to spend 1 day in split, b) exploring beyond split in one day, day 1 – split old town & marjan forest park, day 2 – blue lagoon, trogir and klis fortress, day 3 – omis and cetina river, day 1 – split old town and marjan hill, day 4 – hvar island, day 5 – krka national park, day 4 – hvar island, day 6 – vis & blue cave or makarska riviera and biokovo, day 7 – brac island, getting to split, croatia, best time to visit split, croatia, planning a trip to croatia.

With the below Split itineraries I’ll be sharing my insider’s tips and take you on the perfect journey through this amazing town. Whether you only have a day or a whole week, this city has so much to offer. From history and culture to adventure and parties, Split’s got it all.

In a hurry? Book your Split essentials!

These are the unmissable  things to do in Split  that you should book in advance and a fantastic hotel for your stay!

Cornaro Hotel Split walking tour Blue Lagoon boat trip Game of Thrones tour with Klis Fortress Blue Cave and Vis trip

Split attracts a very diverse crowd and I tried to reflect that in the below itineraries. If you only want to explore the historic core, then one day in Split will be enough for you. However, if you have more time at your disposal the 3, 5 and 7-day itineraries are perfect for you. You’ll notice that the longer the itinerary, the more of the surroundings you’ll be able to explore.

I’m giving you plenty of information with links to other relevant articles for each place or activity whenever I mention it for the first time. But since these activities sometimes repeat for different itineraries I left those as a list and you can refer back up for more info when needed.

Three days in Split is the perfect amount of time to visit the city. It will allow you to see all Split highlights and to explore the surroundings.

When it comes to what to do in Split you’ll be spoilt for choice and you can easily spend a whole week here. However, if this is your first (or only) time in Croatia and you have more than three days at your disposal, I would actually recommend you use this time to hop over to Hvar for a few days and follow this Hvar itinerary.

If you chose to base yourself in Split for the whole duration of your stay then the 5 and 7-day Split itineraries will work great for you as they account for day trips from Split to the surrounding islands and attractions nearby.

When looking for your accommodation in Split I recommend you pick something within walking distance of Diocletian’s Palace. You can choose to base yourself in the old city center, Veli Varos (a quiet neighborhood full of delicious restaurants), or closer to Bavcice beach if you prefer to stay next to the sea and nightlife.

I’ve written a whole article on the best places to stay in Split which will help you choose the best hotel (and area) to base yourself in Split.

Where to stay in Split Best Hotels in Split

When picking where to stay in Split, remember that parking can be a serious issue. If you’re traveling by car this is a major consideration and something you should check before booking.

Also keep in mind that Split, while often marketed as a beach destination, is primarily a port and the beaches are not as nice as on the surrounding islands and in the bays further out of town. If you’re after a beach destination I highly recommend you hop over to Hvar island and check out these amazing beaches.

Cornaro Hotel

FEEL LIKE THE EMPEROR

5-star luxury in the heart of Split’s old town. Here you’ll be spoilt with delicious food, stunning views from the rooftop palace, and a relaxing spa.

CHECK PRICES

Camera Hotel

CHARM & HISTORY

Located in a quiet street at the edge of Split old town and it’s full of charm combining historic architecture with modern design.

Check prices

Briig Boutique Hotel

MODERN & OPPULENT

Your go-to if you like modern architecture, art, and gourmet food. This hotel is located just a stone’s throw from the popular Bacvice beach and nightlife.

1 day Split itinerary

If you only have one day in Split you’ll want to make the most of it. There are basically two ways you can go about it depending on what travel style suits you best and what else you’ve included in your Croatia itinerary.

A) spend the full day in Split old town, take it slow, linger over lunch and really take in the views. Enjoy a coffee, an ice cream, and just tune into the Croatian fjaka vibe.

B) Have an early start, zip through the old town, and grab lunch on the go so that you can spend the rest of the day on a boat tour.

Whichever option you choose make sure to check out my Split travel guide to the old town for more details on what to see and do in town.

The most noteworthy places to visit in Split are:

• The Peristyle
• The Vestibule
• The Podrumi
• Take in the views from Marjan Hill

Stroll down the Riva

Climb the bell tower of St. Domnius

• Meander the stone streets

I’m all about taking my time and really experiencing a destination. If you can, I recommend you take your time in the old town and really make the most of your Split sightseeing. Enjoy a slow lunch and sit down for refreshments whenever you please, you’re on holiday after all!

Spend the day exploring the Diocletian’s Palace , take in the views from Marjan Hill and in the afternoon visit Klis Fortress. This walking tour of the old town is the perfect way to discover Split. Or, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, consider booking this GOT tour which will take you to the fortress and show you all the filming locations in town.

Read next: Best things to do in Split Old Town

If you’re on a short timeline, then packing as much as possible into a day is crucial. If your Croatia itinerary does not include much beach time and you’re not planning any island hopping then I recommend you book this Blue Lagoon boat trip and make the most of your time in Split. Then come back to Split Old Town in the evening for some sightseeing and a nice dinner. For the ultimate evening experience of the city book this evening walking tour.

Read next: Your guide to the Blue Lagoon, Croatia

3 days in Split itinerary

This is the perfect way to explore Split in 3 days and can be easily adapted for a weekend in Split. This itinerary lets you venture out of the city and you’ll get some much-needed beach time too.

Explore the Diocletian’s Palace

Start the day early if you wish to beat the crowds and heat in the old town. The  Diocletian’s Palace is the most famous attraction and a must see in Split. Do not miss out on the highlights; The Peristyle, The Vestibule and The Podrumi.

Just off of the Peristyle you’ll find the Cathedral of St. Domnius (Sveti Duje). This is the oldest still standing Catholic cathedral in the world and while it’s history and architecture are certainly impressive, the best part is the view from the bell tower (57m).

Meander the stone streets of Split and discover the many squares

Split’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is almost exclusively pedestrian. Made up of breathtaking Roman remains and charming cobblestone alleyway, Split boasts a lively bar scene, quirky shops, fantastic restaurants, an array of museums and art galleries and one of my favorite waterfronts (Riva) in Croatia.

Split city center was also used for the filming of GOT. If you’re true fan you’ll recognize many of it’s corners from the series and I highly recommend you book this Game of thrones tour which will show you all the filming locations in town and take you to Klis Fortress as well.

Book your guided tour: Split walking tour Game of Thrones tour with Klis Fortress

Grab lunch in town

Sit down for lunch at Konoba Korta or any other restaurant that catches your attention. Order some spritz to cool down and refresh after all the walking. Take your time to enjoy the meal.

Views & beaches in Marjan Forest Park

After lunch, it’s time for some views and relaxing on the beach.

At the very edge of Split Old town sits Marjan Forest Park and it takes up a big part of the peninsula NW of town. The park is massive and it could be described as a maze of walking paths, countless staircases and Mediterranean nature.

The views from Marjan Hill are especially gorgeous and you don’t even have to hike all the way to the top to see the city from above. The first viewpoint ( Prva vidilica na Marjanu ) offers the best views in town and you can grab a refreshing drink while you take in the views from the cafe at the viewpoint.

There are different paths leading up the hill but taking the Marjan Hill Stairs is the easiest and fastest one, just be prepared to get a little sweaty as it’s over 300 steps.

Continue down the other side and head over to the waterfront. The trees in the park offer a welcome relief from the heat of town and there is plenty of beaches for you to choose from. I highly recommend Kasjuni Beach and Beach Bene.

Shop these beach essentials:

Straw Beach Bag

SPF Beach Hat

Kindle Paperwhite

Reef Safe Sunscreen

Sand-Free Beach Mat

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Self-Cleaning Bottle

Mediterranean dinner

After a relaxing afternoon at the beach it’s time for a shower and some food. While you might be tempted to sit down at one of the restaurants at the waterfront, you’ll probably get better food and better service a couple of streets inland.

Preferably ice cream in hand. Split has one of the largest and nicest Rivas in Croatia and I just love strolling here in the evenings. The waterfront is closed for traffic and lined with palm trees. The large promenade is perfect for evening walks, during the day you can find some shade in the long narrow park that runs along the promenade or sit back in one of the many bars and restaurants.

Blue Lagoon tour

There are several Blue Lagoons in Croatia, but the most stunning one (the one you want to visit) is located just a short boat ride from Split. Blue Lagoon is the popular name for Krknjasi Bay, an incredibly blue bay at Drvenik Veliki island which is further sheltered by the islets of Mali (small) Krknjas and Veli (large) Krknjas.

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous lagoons in Croatia and an absolute must on your Croatia trip. It takes the color blue to an entirely new level and it is the perfect place to swim, snorkel, sunbathe and enjoy one of Nature’s finest creations.

While all boat tours stop at Trogir and the Blue Lagoon, some take you to an additional island too. Solta is the most popular stop but there are tours that stop at Ciovo or Brac as well. Below are my top recommendations for you to choose from. The half-day tour will get you back to Split in time for you to squeeze in an evening visit to Klis Fortress.

BOOK YOUR TOUR: Private speedboat tour  (8h, 4 islands – Trogir, Blue Lagoon, Solta, Brac) Group full-day tour  (8h, 3 islands – Trogir, Solta, Blue Lagoon) Group half-day tour  (5h, 3 islands – Blue Lagoon, Trogir, Ciovo) Read next: Your guide to the Blue Lagoon in Croatia

Klis Fortress

Klis Fortress is a medieval fortress located about 20min North of Split. Perched on top of the hill it offers stunning views in all directions. This fort has a very strategic position and historically it served as a major source of defense against the Ottomans. Today it is most famous as a GOT filming location for Meereen. If you’re a fan I highly recommend this GOT tour.

Location: Klis Fortress Opening times: 8:30am–10pm MON – SUN Entrance fees : 75 kn per adult

A mere 35 minutes drive south of Split is where the beautiful Cetina river meets the sea. Cetina carved its path through a scenic rocky canyon and Omis was built at the mouth of the river with a stunning fort perched on top of the cliffside.

This area offers something for everyone, from superb fish restaurants and vibrant cafes in Omis to adventure-filled activities on the river, to more forts, history and architecture. The choice is yours. To help you filter through all the options, here are my top recommendations for activities in Omis and Cetina:

Book your Omis adventure: Omiš and River Cetina Boat Tour ZipLine over Cetina Canyon Half-Day Rafting on Cetina River with Cliff Jumping Canyoning on Cetina River ATV Off Road Tour Via Ferrata Omis

Food for thought: You might have seen photos of the Cetina springs which look like a cat’s (or dragon’s) eye from above. The springs are indeed stunning but that is a 1.5h drive inland towards Knin. If you have your own wheels you can squeeze this in but be aware that there is not much else into that direction and you’ll be done with the springs in less than 30 minutes. Is 3h drive really worth the 30min jaw-drop and freezing dip? For me it was, but not everyone is as crazy as I am. Alternatively you can turn this into a 6h mountain biking adventure and book this bike tour.

5-day Split itinerary

This 5-day Split itinerary builds up on the 3-day itinerary, meaning the first three days will be exactly the same as above while the fourth and fifth day will be spent exploring beyond Split and will take you to Hvar island and Krka National Park.

Book your guided tour: Private speedboat tour  (8h, 4 islands – Trogir, Blue Lagoon, Solta, Brac) Group full-day tour  (8h, 3 islands – Trogir, Solta, Blue Lagoon) Group half-day tour  (5h, 3 islands – Blue Lagoon, Trogir, Ciovo)

Read next: Your guide to the Blue Lagoon in Croatia

Hvar island really feels like home to me and I honestly believe this is one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia. Ideally, you’d spend more than one day here but even a few hours will be enough for you to fall in love with Hvar.

You can hop on a ferry, rent a scooter or car and explore Hvar on your own. If you’re short on time you can even do this speedboat tour that combines Hvar and the Blue Cave.

Book your car ferry. Book a speedboat to Hvar. Book a catamaran tour to Hvar & Pakleni Islands Hire a 125cc scooter on Hvar Rent a quad bike on Hvar

We have a whole collection of detailed Hvar guides which I recommend you check out before going, but in order to keep this brief, these are the highlights you should absolutely check out:

• Hvar Fortress
• Beach hopping
• Pakleni Islands

Read next: The ultimate guide to Hvar town The best beaches on Hvar island Your guide to Hvar island

If Plitvice Lakes National Park has all the lakes, then Krka National Park has all the waterfalls, and then some. Krka NP is best known for Skradinski Buk, but the National Park is so much more than this! Just make sure to book your Krka NP entrance ticket or tour

Opening times: times vary depending on season and entrance. Skradinski Buk is open 8AM – 8PM in summer. Entrance fees: fees vary depending on season, starting at 50kn in winter and all the way up to 200kn in summer per adult ticket. Get your Krka NP admission ticket

Skradinski Buk

a network of cascades and waterfalls weaving their way over numerous tiers and between ponds, bushes, and mini-islands, ending in a lake-like plunge pool.

A loop walk of about 1-2h (depending on how often you stop for photos, which does add up!) will take over boardwalks, bridges, through forests and past numerous viewpoints before ending in a small etno village that showcases the history and heritage of this area, including watermills that are still functional today.

Insiders tip: Since 2021 it is no longer allowed to swim in Skradinski Buk. Despite what some online sources might say, you should leave your swimwear behind.

Beyond Skradinski Buk

From Skradinski Buk you can hop on a boat, drive or walk up to the 22.5m high Roski Slap, next to it you can visit the Necklaces which is a network of small cascades, backwaters and islets. From here you can climb up the 500+. steps to Ozidana pecina cave from where you can take in the views and explore the karst cave. If you’re visiting in Spring when water is plentiful, consider taking the detour to the tallest waterfall in the park – Manojlovac waterfall.

Read next: Krka National Park guide

Another popular highlight of Krka NP is Visovac Island where you can visit a little monastery and enjoy the gardens. To be perfectly honest, I found this bit a little boring and enjoyed the views of the island more than actually visiting the island.

And then there are hundreds of kilometers of trails, roads and bike paths taking you through forests, up hills and to beautiful viewpoints. If you’re into nature, hiking, biking and breathtaking views, Krka NP is your oyster.

Book your Krka waterfalls day trip: Krka waterfalls and Sibenik – ticket and lunch INCLUDED Sibenik, Krka Waterfalls and Skradin Krka Waterfalls with Food & Wine Tasting

7-day Split itinerary

Building on the 5-day itinerary, this week-long program adds some more island hopping and beach time to the mix.

Book your Hvar trip: Book your car ferry. Book a speedboat to Hvar. Book a catamaran tour to Hvar & Pakleni Islands Hire a 125cc scooter on Hvar Rent a quad bike on Hvar

Read next: Hvar travel guides

Depending on your other plans for your time in Croatia and your mood, I’m giving you two options on how to spend this day.

Vis & Blue Cave

I’ll be honest, I’m only adding this in because the Blue Cave is a major tourist attraction in Croatia and a bucket-list item for many. And yes, it certainly is a memorable sight and a wonder of nature. But boy the hassle to get there from Split!

Read next: Your guide to visiting the Blue Cave

The drive from Split to Vis (wherte the Blue Cave is located) is quite long and speedboats aren’t really known for smooth sailing but luckily, most tour operators will add more stops to the trip in order to break up the long boat journey. Still, I’d recommend you book a trip with a bigger boat in order to have a more comfortable trip.

Keep in mind that the waiting times to enter the cave can get pretty long and you’ll only get a few minutes inside.

If you have the option of staying on Hvar for a few nights I’d highly recommend you do this Blue Cave tour from Hvar instead.

Book your day trip to the Blue Cave: Five Island Speedboat Tour All-inclusive Gastro Blue Cave Tour Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, Vis and Hvar Islands

Makarska Riviera & Biokovo

Just a short drive south of Split town you’ll find the most breathtaking coastline in Croatia. Stretching from Brela all the way to Gradac, Makarska Riviera is my favorite beach destination in Croatia. Here you’ll find approximately 60 kilometers of gorgeous secluded bays, clear blue waters, endless pine forests, and best of all, the impressive Biolkovo mountains overlooking it all.

Let’s beat the masses and start the day up in the mountains. Located at an elevation of 1228 m, Skywalk Biokovo offers breathtaking views over the whole riviera, the nearby islands, and on a clear day all the way to Italy. Take in the views and fresh mountain air, then spot your favorite bay – that’s where you’re going next!

The scenic coastline of Makarska Riviera offers countless beach opportunities, with Punta Rata beach and Nugal beach taking the crown. Grab a towel, sunscreen, snacks and some water, and go beach hopping in paradise. Keep in mind that many of the beaches in Makarska do not have any amenities or bars so take with you everything you might need.

Book your trip to Makarska Makarska & Mostar from Split Skywalk Biokovo and White Water Rafting from Split Biokovo Skywalk from Makarska Biokovo Nature Park Hiking tour from Makarska Beginner Diving in Brela Scooter rental in Makarska

Brac is among the most popular islands in Croatia, and for a good reason! That reason being Golden Horn beach (Zlatni Rat), the poster child of Croatia tourism. This gorgeous beach keeps changing shape and it might appear as a sandy beach, but in reality, it’s made of tiny little pebbles that dance around with the tide.

Book your day trip to Brac: Sailing Cruise to Brac and Solta Hvar, Brac & Pakleni islands cruise 

Beyond Golden Horn in Bol, other highlights on Brac Island include:

• Vidova Gora lookout, the highest point of the Croatian islands
• Dragon’s Cave (Zmajeva Spilja)
• Stonemasonry School & quarries
• Try windsurfing or kitesurfing

Split is very well connected with all major cities in Croatia and the main port for the ferries to the surrounding islands. You can reach Split by boat, bus, train or plane. If you decide to drive to Split keep in mind that the old town is pedestrian only and there is a serious parking shortage in town. It’s a good idea to check your parking options before booking your accommodation.

Resnik Airport is a 30-45min drive from Split airport to Split old town. There is a public bus (37 or 38) that will get you close to the old city center but if you have luggage or want to catch a ferry then this shuttle bus is a better solution for you.

Where to eat in Split

I’ve had the opportunity to try out plenty of restaurants during my trips to Split and as with much of Croatia, I’ve never been disappointed in the food. That being said, these are the restaurants that really stood out to me and I highly recommend.

Konoba Korta for local dishes and friendly service. They’re open for breakfast lunch and dinner and have some of the friendliest staff in Split. I always feel welcome here, the food is delicious and the kitchen is happy to accommodate for any dietary requests.

Zrno Soli for seafood. Located in the Marina it serves traditional Mediterranean dishes with a modern twist. It is regarded as one of the most prestigious restaurants in Split and is the perfect place to dine if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Kat’s Kitchen Deli for brunch or breakfast. Their avo on toast is delicious and don’t even get me started on their sweets! Everything I’ve tried at Kat’s Kitchen Deli was to die for and their food presentation is second to none.

Like most of Croatia, Split gets really busy and extremely hot in summer which is considered to be high season. Personally, I prefer Split in late spring or early autumn when the temperatures are milder and the crowds smaller.

If you have to visit in summer make sure to start your Split old town visit in the early morning before the crowds hit the town and the scorching sun heats up the city.

As a rule of thumb, I would advise you to avoid Croatia in the peak of summer. It just gets too hot, too crowded, and too expensive. I believe you’ll have a much better experience visiting Split in late spring or early Autumn.

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).

Split: Your guide to Split Old Town Where to stay in Split Best hotels in Split Day trips from Split Best things to do in Split

Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik itinerary One day in Dubrovnik Dubrovnik City Walls guide Where to stay in Dubrovnik Best hotels in Dubrovnik Best things to do in Dubrovnik Best Islands near Dubrovnik Day trips from Dubrovnik

Croatia itineraries: 2 weeks in Dalmatia itinerary 1 week Dalmatia Itinerary

Hvar: Hvar itinerary Hvar island guide Things to do in Hvar town Pakleni Islands guide Where to stay on Hvar Best hotels on Hvar

Dalmatia: Your guide to the Blue Cave Your guide to the Blue Lagoon Your guide to Krka National Park

Trogir itinerary Where to stay in Trogir

Sibenik itinerary Where to stay in Sibenik

Zadar itinerary Where to stay in Zadar

Reliable travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

Now we always get insured before we leave and  Travel Insurance Masters  is our go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Split Itinerary: How to Spend From 3 to 7 Days in Split, Croatia

Posted on Last updated: February 11, 2023

Need help planning your Split itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined everything you need to know to plan the perfect Split itinerary.  

Starting with exactly how many days you need in Split, a day-by-day outline of all the best things to do in and around Split, where to stay, what to pack and much more.

Located on the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic Sea, Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, and one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, and it’s easy to see why.

On a trip to Split you can expect to discover a unique medieval old town, to relax on beautiful beaches, go on boat trips to pristine beaches, swim in waterfalls and even adventure in a stunning natural landscape.

It’s a beautiful city, which offers plenty to do for all types of travellers. This article will help you plan the best itinerary, so that you can have an amazing time in Split.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and start planning your perfect Split itinerary!

• 1.1 How many days in Split? 
• 1.2 Where to stay in Split
• 1.3 What to pack for your Split trip
• 1.4 Do you need travel insurance for Split?
• 1.5 How to get around Split 
• 2.1 Explore Diocletian’s Palace
• 2.2 Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius
• 2.3 Walk along the seaside promenade
• 2.4 Discover Pazar Market
• 3.1 See the view from Park Marjana
• 3.2 Relax at Kasjuni Beach
• 3.3 Go for a sunset SUP tour
• 4.1 Explore Omis Old Town
• 4.2.1 Go zip-lining
• 4.2.2 Or go rafting
• 5 Split itinerary day 4: Day trip to Krka 
• 6 Split itinerary day 5: Day trip to Hvar 
• 7 Split itinerary day 6: Day trip to Plitvice
• 8 Split itinerary day 7: Relax in Split

Exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia

Logistical tips for your Split itinerary

Before we dive into my detailed day-by-day Split itinerary, I wanted to share with you some useful tips that will help you arrange the logistics of your trip.

How many days in Split?  

When planning your Split itinerary, you need to take into account just how much you want to see not only in Split, but also its surroundings.

There’s a long list of amazing sights and adventures to be had on a trip to Split, and working out just how many days to spend there can be difficult.

Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to tailor your trip to the length of time you have to spare for your Croatia itinerary .

View over Omis and the Cetina Canyon from the top of the fort

For example, one day in Split Croatia, will be enough to see the Split Old Town. It’s basically just enough to see the must-see spots of the town centre, but not enough to do everything – just enough for a taste of what the city has to offer.  

A weekend in Split is a good length of time to easily see all of the top attractions of the city. But if you want to see some of the amazing sights outside of Split, you will have to consider an even longer trip.

In my opinion, three days is the bare minimum you need for a Split itinerary, to see the highlights within the city of Split and go on one day trip.  

That said, one of the great things about Split, is that you can use it as a jumping-off point for discovering lots of the awesome places in the area.  

Exploring the Old Town of Split, Croatia

Split is super well positioned to go on day trips, so you could easily stay up to seven days in Split, and from there explore Krka, Plitvice, Omis and Hvar among others.

Since in this Split itinerary you will be sleeping in Split, and coming back every night, you can be flexible with what Split tours or activities you do.

There is a core Split 3-day itinerary, whilst the following days then build on the core 3-day itinerary.

You can shift things around depending on what suits you best, or even take out days if you don’t have up to one week in Split. It’s a flexible itinerary, which you can adapt to fit your interests.

Admiring Skradinski Buk falls in Krka National Park

Enjoying the view over Hvar from the top of the fort

Where to stay in Split

The best places to stay in Split are around Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town centre. That way you’ll be super central, and within walking distance of all the main attractions.

Here are some great accommodation options for every budget.

Budget:  Old Town Hostel – this hostel is right in the centre of Split. Here you can find an affordable stay and friendly sociable environment.

Click here to book your stay at Old Town Hostel!

Mid-range:  Hotel Bellevue   – located in the heart of Split, this cosy hotel is the perfect place for a relaxing stay.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Bellevue!

Luxury:  Villa Split Heritage Hotel – if you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. In the heart of the Old Town this hotel has a very traditional feel, with its exposed brick walls and an outdoors courtyard.

Click here to book your stay at Villa Split Heritage Hotel!

Sunset over the sea in Hvar, Croatia

What to pack for your Split trip

You don’t need much besides the usual travel essentials . However, I’ve listed below some key things you don’t want to forget!

Power bank – Whether it’s to check where you’re going with Google Maps, or to take beautiful travel pictures, you don’t want your phone to run out of battery.

Water bottle – You can drink the tap water in Croatia, so kill two birds with one stone by saving money and using less plastic!

International adapter – Depending on where you’re travelling from, you might need an adapter to charge your electronics.

Fast drying towel – Whether it’s for the shower of your hostel dorm, after a swim in Krka waterfalls or to lie on the beach, you’ll need one of these. I love them because they dry quickly and don’t take up much space.

View over Omis and the Cetina Canyon from the top of the fort, Croatia

Do you need travel insurance for Split?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying the view over Hvar from Fortica

How to get around Split  

Getting around Split and its Old Town is easily done on foot. The main part of the town is really walkable and it doesn’t take too long to walk from place to place.

If you want to go a bit beyond the main attractions, but still stay within the city, you can use public transport.

The city has a comprehensive bus system that is modern and simple to use. Or for extra ease, you can hop in a taxi and get where you need to be quickly, for a still relatively affordable price.  

For going further afield, on day trips to Omis or Krka for example, organised tours are the easiest option. That way you don’t have to worry about driving, parking and all the hassle that comes with it.

Discover some of the most popular Split tours below!

Driving a rental car in Hvar, Croatia, with the beautiful coastline of Hvar behind us

Me and my friends enjoying the sunset at Hula Hula Beach Bar in Hvar

Split Itinerary day 1 – Explore Split Old Town

We’re starting our Split one-day itinerary by heading straight to the Old Town. This is the centre of the city and where most of the main tourist sights are located.

One day will give you enough time to tick off the most famous locations around the area.

You can start the day exploring the Old Town, perhaps stopping for a morning coffee at a local cafe. After that, here are the main sights you can’t miss.

Explore Diocletian’s Palace

Begin the day early with a visit to Diocletian’s Palace. Built at the start of the fourth century for the Roman emperor Diocletian, the palace now makes up a large part of the historic centre of Split.

The striking Roman architecture is UNESCO listed and is an amazing place to spend time taking pictures and learning about the history of ancient Split.

The main square here is a lively spot (a great place to return to in the evening for a few drinks and live music)

You can also head underground to the Substructures of Diocletian’s Palace; the subterranean area used to open right out onto the water from the Bronze Gates.

Today, it’s a warren of basements, but the main section is busy with souvenir stalls. If you want to enter chambers on either side, tickets cost 42 HRK for an adult.

Diocletan’s Palace in Split, Croatia

Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius

Nearby, the 4th-century Cathedral of Saint Domnius is another great place to see yet more historic architecture.

There’s also the chance to get a view from the city from atop its 57-metre-tall bell tower. I did this early in the morning to snap pictures of the city from above with fewer crowds.  

It’s also a long walk up a narrow, winding staircase to the top which would be less fun with more people coming the other direction.

Tickets to the bell tower cost 15 HRK; entrance to the cathedral is separate and costs another 20 HRK.

To maximise your first day in Split, you can also join a guided tour of the Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace . That way you’ll have a local guide sharing with you interesting facts about the rich history of Split.

Click here to book your Old Town & Diocletian’s Palace tour in Split!

Or click below to see prices & availability!

The view from the top of the Split cathedral bell tower

Walk along the seaside promenade

Next up take a walk over to the seaside promenade, the coastal pedestrianised path is dotted with trees and is busy with people enjoying their day in the sunshine.

This is a good place to find somewhere to eat lunch as there are plenty of little cafes and restaurants with terrace seating.  

Discover Pazar Market

After lunch, you’ll have time in the afternoon to soak up some local life at the city’s markets. One great option is the open-air Pazar Market, which runs along Hrvojeva Street by the east wall of Diocletian’s Palace.  

Exploring the side streets of Split in the early morning

Split itinerary day 2: Viewpoints & beaches

If you have the time to spend two days in Split, then you have the chance to slow down the pace a bit. On day one you saw many of the main sights, so today is all about soaking up the atmosphere of the area a little bit more.

See the view from Park Marjana

Start the day by getting a good glimpse of the city from Park Marjana viewpoint.

The walk up to the viewpoint is only around a 15 minutes from Split harbour, and the hike up Marjan Hill is only a few hundred metres of uphill walking, so it’s not too taxing.  

Once you get to the top you are rewarded with a fantastic view across the old red rooftops of Split and over the sparkling sea.

There’s also a little bar where you can sit down, have a drink or ice cream and soak up what is one of the best views of Split.

The view of Split from Park Marjan

Relax at Kasjuni Beach

In the afternoon you could cross Marjan Park and make your way down to Kasjuni Beach. Split has two main beaches.

The sandy Bacvice Beach is closer to the Old Town and has many more tourists. Kasjuni beach on the other hand is more local and laid back, and in general is just a lot more of an enjoyable place to unwind for a few hours.  

Go for a sunset SUP tour

If you have time to spare, you could end your second day in Split by embarking on a sunset SUP tour.

You get to paddle in the calm waters around the shore, watch the sunset and then turn on LED lights below your board to help light the way!

Click here to book your sunset SUP tour in Split!

We went on a sunset stand up paddling tour while in Split

Split itinerary Day 3: Day trip to Omis

If you’re planning on spending three days in Split, then you have the time to take a day trip beyond Split. This is the perfect chance to spend the day exploring Omis.

This charming Croatian town is up there on any Croatia bucket list , because it is just so beautiful.  

Explore Omis Old Town

Located at the mouth of the Cetina River, right where it meets the Adriatic Sea, the town sits right on the sea with the dramatic backdrop of the towering Cetina Canyon.

The town centre has been incredibly well preserved, which makes for a great place to spend an hour or two simply strolling along its stone streets.  

Similarly to Split, it has a well preserved medieval town centre, and walking down these picturesque streets will feel like stepping back in time.

Above the town you will find Starigrad Fortress, an ancient castle with stunning views over Omis.

Wandering around the Old Town of Omis, Croatia

Discover the Cetina Canyon

But wandering around the charming town isn’t the only thing to do in Omis. From here you can make the most of the picturesque Croatian landscape by exploring the Cetina Canyon.

The lush 100km-long canyon runs along the Cetina River, and makes for an ideal spot for any adrenaline junkie or nature lover.  

Go zip-lining

Ziplining is one of the most fun ways to see the canyon in all of its glory.   You can read more about my time zip-lining Omis here .

It’s one of the most iconic zip lines in the world, with eight wires running for a total length of 2,100 metres! I did the Zipline Croatia tour, which costs 400 HRK per person.

It’s not only a thrilling activity, but it’s also a great way to enjoy this unique landscape. Especially from the first wire, where you’ll be zipping high above the Cetina Canyon, the views are simply stunning.

Click here to book your zip-lining experience in Omis, Croatia!

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Or go rafting

But, if zip-lining isn’t your thing, a lot of people also choose to raft along the Cetina River to really get a feel of the epic canyon from below. Some great hiking routes lead through the canyon of various lengths too.  

Or if that all sounds like too much effort for a holiday, why not simply spend the day in Omis?

There’s the striking 15th-century Starigrad Fortress to visit with viewpoints of the region and some local eateries to sample in the town, too.

Click here to book your rafting experience in the Cetina River!

Or click below to see prices & availability for your chosen date!

Zip-lining in the Cetina Canyon

Split itinerary day 4: Day trip to Krka  

For those of you who have enough time to spend four days in Split Croatia, then you are in for a treat.

You can spend the fourth day of your trip visiting Krka. This famous national park is like a slice of paradise, and is within easy reach of Split.  

You could opt to hire a car and drive to Krka National Park, it’s only about a 1.5-hour drive.

There’s also a bus from Split bus station to Skradin; from here you can catch a ferry to Skradinski Buk and into the main area of Krka National Park.

Click here to book your Krka day tour from Split!

Looking for a corner away from the crowds by Skradinski Buk Falls at Krka National Park

For a completely smooth-sailing day, you can book an organised day tour to Krka from Split .

The tours are only a little bit more expensive than taking public transport, and mean you don’t have to worry about working out bus times, which is a bonus.

I really recommend taking a day trip to this National Park. It’s famous for its waterfalls, and they simply do not disappoint.

Your day will be spent taking a cruise on a boat along the river, from where you can take in the lush green surroundings.  

The famous the famous Skradinski Buk Falls at Krka National Park in Croatia

You’ll also be able to see the famous Skradinski Buk Falls up close, where the fresh water gushes down into an emerald pool below. There’s even the chance to enjoy a refreshing swim in the pools themselves.  

The park itself is really large (it covers an area of 142 square kilometres), so you won’t be able to see all of it in a day, but you will be able to see a lot of the most iconic spots.

Some scenic trains loop around to viewpoints and offer the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.  

Tickets cost 30 HRK out of season (November to March) and 200 HRK in the summer months.  

Click here to book your Split to Krka day trip!

Or click below to check out prices & availability for your chosen date!

One of the ferries in Krka National Park

Some of the smaller waterfalls in Krka National Park

Split itinerary day 5: Day trip to Hvar  

Opting to spend five days in Split is an awesome idea if you have the time. You can really slow down the pace of your previous days, and enjoy immersing yourself in the town and the surrounding area.  

Your fifth day in Split is a great opportunity to hop on a boat and head over to Hvar Island.

It takes about an hour to get to Hvar Island via one of the ferries that regularly leave from Split harbour. Once you reach Hvar Island, you can enjoy a day lounging on a choice of beaches.

The island has a whole host of incredible natural spots and a sweet historical town to wander too.  

Malo Zarace Beach in Hvar Island

View over the harbour and rooftops of Hvar from the top of the fort

To really get the most out of your day, a Hvar day tour from Split is a good shout. A good tour itinerary will take you to all of the main sights of Hvar Town, as well as the nearby smaller islands.

Most tours will take you to see the stunning Blue Cave, and the picturesque coves around the islands of Vis, Ravnik, Budikovac and Bisevo.

Click here to book your boat tour to Hvar, Blue Cave & Five Islands from Split!

Split itinerary day 6: Day trip to Plitvice

There are yet more things to be added to this Split Croatia itinerary. Six days in Split gives you the perfect amount of time to take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

There’s a reason that this UNESCO World Heritage Sight is the most visited tourist attraction in the whole of Croatia.

Located 150 miles (240 km) from Split, you can easily reach this stunner of a National Park in around two to three hours by car.  

Covering an area of 295 square kilometres, the forest is famous for its Eden-like terraced lakes, each of them joined by trickling waterfalls that run into a deep limestone canyon.

The park can be explored in a number of different ways; there are easily accessible walkways, more strenuous hiking trails, and the opportunity to board electric boats and cruise a number of the upper and lower lakes.

Entrance costs 80 HRK (May to October) and 300 HRK in the summer season.  

Click here to book your Split to Plitvice Lakes tour!

Exploring the waterfalls of Plitvice National Park – Photo by Rohit Ganatra on Scopio

Split itinerary day 7: Relax in Split

We’ve reached the end of the Split itinerary, with seven days being a great amount of time to truly enjoy the town at a leisurely pace, while also seeing the surrounding sights on day trips.

On your final day in Split you can tick off the things you might have overlooked on previous days.  

You could spend the morning walking around the Old Town, doing a spot of shopping for souvenirs to take back home with you.

Or maybe you just want to enjoy one more day in the sunshine, which means kicking back at the beach.  

But for those of you who really want to max out your time in Split, and Croatia as a whole, then you could opt to go on a day trip to Dubrovnik !

Don’t miss out, book your Dubrovnik day trip from Split here!

View over the iconic red roofs of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is another beautiful Croatian city. It has many similar features to Split, but it’s still different enough that they’re both worth visiting and adding to your Europe bucket list .

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is surrounded by tall city walls, its characterised by red roofs and picturesque pedestrian streets. 

If you have a bit more time on your Croatia trip, I highly suggest extending your Dubrovnik itinerary and sleeping in Dubrovnik , as there so many awesome things to do there.

If you’re short on time, worry not, as you can still visit on a day trip from Split, thanks to the many organised Dubrovnik tours .

A “hidden” beach cave that you can visit near Dubrovnik

View over the rooftops of Dubrovnik from the Old Town walls

Final thoughts on this Split itinerary

There you have it, the ultimate Split itinerary! Have you visited Split before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Split is a gorgeous city, and one of my favourite European weekend getaways. The city is incredibly charming, with its medieval narrow streets and unique architecture.

However, if you have longer to spend in Split, that’s even better! As the surroundings of Split are also stunning, and you can go on epic day trips to cute towns, dramatic waterfalls, pristine islands and gorgeous canyons.

In this article I tried to share with you the most thorough Split itinerary. An itinerary that you can adapt depending on your interests and how much time you have.

I hope you find this useful in creating your own Split itinerary! If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed reading my ultimate Split itinerary? Pin it!

Split Croatia Travel Guide

Your guide to Split Croatia

Home » Split » 13 Fantastic Split Day Tour Ideas

13 Fantastic Split Day Tour Ideas

Booking some Split day tours during your Croatia vacation is an excellent opportunity to visit nearby landmarks.

Your day tour choice can be active outdoor experience or scenic drive along the coast, checking out a few nearby islands on a speedboat, or hiking in the mountains. There’s plenty of things to keep your occupied.

I’ll give you some of my favorite trip plans for a nice one-day getaway and you can decide for yourself what pace you want to take. I already covered many things to do in Split in Split Attractions article, but you can always find something interesting to do around the city as well. Here’s my list of top suggestions:

• Plitvice Lakes
• Krka waterfalls
• Bisevo island Blue Cave
• Dubrovnik from Split
• Kornati islands
• Hvar town and Pakleni islands
• Brac island & Zlatni Rat beach
• Mostar and Medjugorje
• Klis fortress
• Imotski Red and Blue Lakes
• Cetina River adrenaline adventures
• Party cruises to Solta, Hvar or Brac
• Solta island gourmet tour
• Livno wild horses safari

You can easily visit these locations by yourself, but you can also hire a local tour guide. Having a guide is a great choice as they will organize the trip for you, handle all transportation, and narrate the tour and give you plenty of insight into Croatia’s history and local life.

The choice is yours, so here’s a few ideas on what to do and see in and around Split.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

The Plitvice lakes are Croatia’s most famous national park and are among the most beautiful sights in Europe. Due to their natural diversity, they are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List .

Plitvice Lakes from Split Check price and availability

Plitvice lakes consists of 16 connected lakes and numerous waterfalls, surrounded by dense forests. Many trails and small wooden bridges, built just above the calm water, await you in Plitvice.

In addition to exploring the National Park on foot, you can also explore it with the tourist train or boat throughout the whole year.

This is very important: wear comfortable sneakers or walking shoes . For your safety you may not be able to enter all areas in flip-flops or other footwear.

Plitvice is easy to visit. If you’re traveling to Croatia by car it’s just a short detour on your way to or from almost any Dalmatian destination. And if you don’t have access to your own transportation, there are numerous day trips from Split to Plitvice you can book.

Keep in mind most organized tours to Plitvice may not include entry tickets. Plitvice introduced visitor quotas in 2019, so make sure you read our guide here to find out how to reserve your tickets to ensure a smooth entry.

2. Krka River Waterfalls Split Day Tour

Krka National Park was established in 1985, and follows the line of the Krka river from its source in the foothills of the Dinaric mountains on its short journey through the dramatic landscape to its finish in the Adriatic sea near Sibenik.

Krka National Park Day Trip from Split Check price and availability

The river flows through a limestone gorge, dropping over 220m in 50km, with eight sets of rapids. Only two falls – Skradinski buk and Roski slap – are in the park itself, although the first is the most impressive of all with a 46m drop over seventeen limestone steps.

After the noise and rush of the falls, visitors are surprised to find the tranquility of Visovac. This small island is the site of an old Franciscan monastery, established in the 16th century.

Now home to a library of books and manuscripts, the monastery is the best place for contemplating the serenity of the park in perfect peace and quiet. Read more about Krka monuments and attractions , or find out how to get from Split to Krka !

You can even take a swim in Krka’s pristine waters, so don’t forget to bring appropriate clothes! Krka is becoming an increasingly popular destination and it’s less crowded than Plitvice, so be sure to consider visiting it.

3. Blue Cave and Hvar Town Tours

Blue cave (Modra Spilja) is situated on Bisevo island (5.8 sq. kilometers) about five kilometers south west from Vis island .

Hvar Island and Blue Cave Tour from Split Check price and availability

The island of Bisevo is a famous excursion site, with one-day excursions organized from Split and Komiza and Vis, but also from other islands in vicinity such as Hvar. Usually all tours start first by visiting the Blue Cave, followed by swimming in one of the coves, and it finishes with an exquisite fish lunch.

I personally recommend checking out this Blue Cave tour offer from Zentravel agency. Their offer includes a speedboat tour of Blue Cave, but also 5 nearby islands : Bisevo, Vis, Budikovac, Paklinski and Hvar. This 10-hour tour is available from May to October, and provides fantastic value for the money as you’ll visit multiple islands and small local villages.

Swimming in breathtaking secluded beaches and chilling in authentic small villages is probably going to be your best memory of Croatia, so please do yourself a favor and at least consider it!

4. Split Day Tours To Dubrovnik

It’s hard to imagine anyone being in Croatia without visiting Dubrovnik, the pearl of Adriatic sea.

The town of museums and festivals, the town of taverns and restaurants, the place of a mild Mediterranean climate and wonderful landscapes confirms the famous saying of the Irish writer Bernard Shaw:

“Those who look for a paradise on earth should come to this town.”

Isn’t this a sufficient reason for you to set out for Ragusa and verify this statement? Find out more about Split day tours to Dubrovnik from Split, and make sure to read my Dubrovnik travel guides before you visit!

Dubrovnik Day Tour from Split Check price and availability

I often avoid recommending Dubrovnik as a destination to stay in for an extended period (too many tourists, and prices are too high for me), but it’s still definitely worth visiting. One-day trip is the perfect choice, giving you ample time to discover the down before you start feeling overwhelmed and suffocated by hordes of visitors.

Recommended guided tour I linked takes 12 hours, and includes a professional tour guide will take you through Dubrovnik’s best sights and attractions.

5. Kornati Islands National Park

“On the last day of the Creation, God desired to crown His work, and thus created the Kornati Islands out of tears, stars and breath!” – GEORGE BERNRAD SHAW.

Beautiful nature, a network of countless islands and islets, the magnificent sea – all this makes the Kornati Islands National Park an attractive destination of numerous excursionists and boaters.

National Park Kornati Boat Tour from Split Check price and availability

Unfortunately it seems Kornati tours are mostly unavailable from Split now, so I don’t have any specific offers to recommend. If you find yourself near or in Zadar or surrounding places you can still easily book a sailing trip in Kornati National Park.

6. Split Day Tours To Hvar Town

Hvar is the biggest town on Hvar island , called the “Croatian Madeira”. Hvar receives more than 2724 hours of sunshine each year, more than any other location in the country.

Hvar is a small medieval town that lies between protective pine-covered slopes and the azure Adriatic Sea.

Pakleni otoci ( Hell islands ) are the oldest and most famous Hvar resort, spacious lagoon with shallow and sandy beaches, surrounded by thick pine forest, fragrant heather and rosemary bushes and various exotic plants.

As one of Croatia’s most expensive destinations, Hvar is not in everyone’s price range. But if you intend to only visit this town and island on a day trip you can easily book your speedboat excursion for around €80, which is often the price of a one-night stay in most hotels and apartments on Hvar .

Hvar Island and Pakleni Archipelago Boat Excursion Check price and availability

Typical day trip from Split to Hvar includes a visit to small village Milna and famous beach Palmižana. Day trip I recommended includes both, including plenty of time for sightseeing in Hvar town, swiming in best Hvar beaches , and relaxing during coffee or lunch.

7. Brac And Bol Zlatni Rat Beach Tour

Situated on the south side of Mt. Vidova Gora (778 m – highest peak on all Adriatic islands) with its numerous natural and historical attractions, Bol on Brac island is a famous destination with one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – Zlatni rat (Golden cape).

This beach is often considered one of the ten most beautiful beaches of the world. “Zlatni Rat” or Golden Horn changes its shape with the currents and winds in turquoise blue Brac channel.

Bol and Brac Island from Split Check prices and availability

This natural phenomenon is one of the biggest and the most beautiful Adriatic natural attractions. You will be able to enjoy swimming in the clear blue water, wind surfing and water skiing while relaxing in the afternoon summer breeze.

This Split day tour is organized by many different Split excursion agencies! The one I recommend is organized by Summer Blues, company which also offers party cruises . Their Split to Brac sailing trip includes a guided tour of Brac Island’s Supetar, Bol, Vidova Gora, and Lucice bay, and those are just the highlights.

Paired with on-board music and unlimited drinks and free food, this day tour from Split is definitely worth considering.

8. Split to Mostar and Medjugorje Day Trip

Medugorje is now visited by pilgrims from around the entire world as a shrine, and one of the biggest prayer centers in the world, comparable to Lourdes and Fatima.

Your private tour guide will explain you more about this city and show you the religious sites. You will have free time to discover the city on your own and climb up on the Apparition Hill (where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1981).

This is an amazing day trip that enables you to discover Croatia’s neighbor country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, visit an important religious site, and discover a quaint little town of Mostar.

Medjugorje and Mostar Day Trip from Split Check price and availability!

Alternatively if you do not want to visit Medugorje, you can take a trip to Kravice waterfalls. This trip I linked is the only organized day trip to Mostar from Split which has daily departures.

If you don’t need a personal tour guide and want to handle transportation by yourself, you can also take a regular bus to Medjugorje from Split main bus station. Below are Split day tour departures to Medjugorje:

Departure times and bus lines may be subject to change, so please check it before your trip!

9. Klis Fortress & A Game of Thrones Tour

I already suggested this easy ‘do it yourself day excursion’ for families with children , but after a bit of research I can’t wait for an opportunity to visit Klis Fortress again.

Viator Exclusive: ‘Game of Thrones’ Tour in Split Check price and availability

Klis fortress is one of the filming locations for fictional city of Meereen in Game of Thrones. This fact made the Fortress an incredibly popular attraction for Game of Thrones fans, but also history enthusiasts looking to discover more about Croatia.

Best Klis Fortress day trip from Split is offered on the link above, and has tons of 5-star reviews from numerous visitors. Best of all, you don’t have to be a GoT fan to appreciate the fantastic view as seen on images above!

10. Imotski Red And Blue Lakes Trip

There are some Split hinterland highlights less known which deserve to be visited. One of these Split day tours is to Red and Blue lakes near Imotski . Considered one of the world’s largest sink holes , these lakes will be an unforgettable day trip.

Imotski Blue & Red lakes day tour from Split Check prices and availability

Distance from Split to Imotski is about 88 km, which you can reach within an hour driving by car, or by taking a bus from the bus station in Split port bus terminal. You can visit Jan Skov’s website about Imotski to read more about these lakes and learn how to get from Split to Imotski.

Unfortunately I don’t know any companies currently offering organized tours to Imotski lakes, but feel free to check this link to see other available departure locations, or check if Split was added since my last check.

If you have your own vehicle or decide to rent a car , I’m sure you’ll enjoy these two beautiful lakes. If you do be sure to also visit Blue Lake tower Fort Topana built by a Croatian duke in the 9th century.

11. Adrenaline Adventures on Cetina River

For those of you who thinking that simple sightseeing is boring, do consider spending a more active day. Cetina river is very near Split, and offers a bit of an adrenaline rush for anyone with an adventurous spirit.

Adrenaline adventures on Cetina:

• Rock climbing

There’s three things which are very popular on Cetina: rafting, rock climbing, and canyoning . Unless requested otherwise, all of these guided tours are aimed at beginners so you don’t have to worry about previous experience.

Your professional guide will show you how to have tremendous fun but in a safe way.

Rafting on Cetina is probably the most common activity. Anyone can do it, and it’s also a great way to spend a day for families with children . Rapids of Cetina river are fairly easy, and your boat will have an experienced guide to help you along. See pricing & availability »

Canyoning is a combination of walking, hiking, sliding down rapids, swimming, and for those who enjoy, cliff jumping. It’s very beginner friendly and slightly challenging if you’re not in great physical condition, but otherwise insanely fun. All equipment including neoprene suits, life vests and helmets is provided. See prices & availability »

Rock climbing is also more challenging for those who are not physically fit, but the tour I linked is also aimed at beginners so you don’t have to worry about overexerting yourself. If you have the willpower it will be easy, and fully licensed instructors will ensure you are always safe. Full climbing equipment will be provided, and you can choose from 140 different routes based on your desired difficulty. See prices & availability »

Not everyone goes on holidays to chill on the beach all day long. With crystal clear water, breathtaking rapids and waterfalls, hidden caves and fabulous scenery, Cetina river is the best area for outdoor adventures near Split .

12. Brac, Solta or Hvar Islands Party Cruises

Adriatic sea is absolutely perfect for calm sailing. You don’t need your own boat to experience life on sea, as many companies are offering one-day trips to various destinations near Split.

Sailing is one of the best ways to enjoy Split sea and neighboring islands , and Summer Blues company offers unforgettable trips on their mega catamaran departing from Split.

Summer Blues party cruises include the following destinations:

• Brac island and Golden Horn beach – more info
• Brac and Solta islands – more info
• Hvar island, Pakleni islands, and Brac island – more info

These cruises are well organized, and large catamarans can accommodate nearly 100 people. Boats include music, free drinks and food, and will get you to your destination before you know it.

There are of course many other companies offering cruise day trips in Split, but Summer Blues offers the best on-board entertainment and facilities. You can see this page for a full list of sailing, cruises and water day trips available from Split, or see my post about party cruises in Croatia if you’re interesting in sailing for multiple days.

13. Gourmet Tour on Solta Island

If you want to make an informative gourmet trip and relax away from the city bustle, I recommend Solta island . The island of Solta is well known for its production of quality olive oil, wine and honey.

Šolta (pron. sholta ) is only a 45 minute cruise by ferry from Split , with both morning and afternoon trips. When you arrive on Solta island you will be met by a local guide in Rogac settlement who will take you to a wonderful tour of local producers of honey, wine and oil.

Olive Oil tour of Solta island Check prices and availability

You will quickly fall in love with Solta as you ride through the island’s untouched nature, with its mesmerizing smell of grass and herbs. Some of the olive trees are more than 1000 years old, and much of the island hasn’t changed for generations.

In this tour you’ll be able to taste traditionally made olive oil, and learn exactly how it’s made. Don’t dare to skip your fantastic (and free) lunch, and make sure you taste local wine.

On the off-chance you get a bit seasick on ferries like me but still want to enjoy local culinary delights, consider taking a culinary or wine tasting tour in Split. Both of these will take you on a 3 and half hour walking tour of Split, giving you some historical insight into the city and cuisine.

(Extra) 14. Wild Horse Safary Trip from Split

Over 400 horses running wild in untouched nature of Livno is a fantastic experience, especially for families with kids.

Wild Horses Safary in Livno

Check prices and availability

Departures and pickup point are flexible, and you can arrange for your transportation at any point in Split. Transfer is included in price, as is free breakfast and lunch.

Livno is a 90-minute long drive from Split, but well worth taking. This unique trip will enable you to see and interact with hundreds of wild but friendly horses, and enjoy the rest of the time on a private farm.

Multi-day experiences

Sometimes a day just isn’t enough. If you’re looking for a truly immersive and unforgettable travel experience, then a multi-day or week-long cruise could be the perfect solution.

Aboard the ship, you’ll be pampered with luxurious amenities and fine dining, while having the freedom to choose from a range of exciting activities, from snorkeling and diving to hiking and sightseeing.

And with knowledgeable and friendly local guides on hand to share their knowledge and insights, you’ll get an authentic and enriching experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Browse 250+ Split cruise tour packages

That’s It! Those are my 13+ recommended best day trips you can make from Split to see the rest of my beautiful country!

Need more ideas? Be sure to check GetYourGuide (200+ tours and day trips) and Happytovisit (170+ tours) for more inspiration!

Vast majority of guided tours range from €50 to €90 per person or group, and include a professional local tour guide, transport in air-conditioned vehicles, and often even a free lunch (please verify each tour before booking to make sure that’s the case).

Even if you aren’t traveling with your own car you can easily visit many different destinations near Split without spending much of your vacation budget .

More things to do in Split:

• Activities for kids
• Outdoor adventures
• Split nightlife & partying
• Top Split attractions
• Split museums and galleries
• Split itinerary for 1-7 days
• Best Split beaches

These are just some of the articles I wrote about activities and things to do in Split, and I truly hope they’ll help you plan a perfect trip.

But, my most important recommendation is to make sure you take at least one or two trips and visit some of these 13 destinations during your vacation. I love Split, but it would be a shame not to experience at least a little bit more of my beautiful country, and I am certain you won’t regret it.

• National Parks
• Sightseeing

If you like this travel guide about 13 Fantastic Split Day Tour Ideas and found it useful, consider supporting the author with a coffee or share it with your friends:

Compare deals from multiple websites to find your hotel, hostel, or private apartment for the best price! You can also check for flights and ferries to Croatia, book airport transfers in advance, or find most popular tours and cruises, all thanks to my partners!

• Accommodation

If the form above is not loading you can search directly on DirectFerries .

Below are my recommended sailing trips in Croatia from trusted companies and tour operators. Feel free to check the offers and links to find additional information and more related cruises!

From Split:

• Southern Explorer - explore top places between Split and Dubrovnik!
• Luxury at Sea - relaxing luxury cruise of best destinations near Split
• Southern Pearls - one-way cruise from Split to Dubrovnik
• Split to Dubrovnik One-Way Luxury Cruise - travel in style from Split to Dubrovnik
• Split to Dubrovnik Private Sailing Holiday - your own private yacht and crew

Top rated: Southern Explorer

Starting and ending in Split, this cruise will take you to Makarska, Mljet, Dubrovnik, Trstenik, Korcula, Hvar and Brac!

Dates & pricing »

From Dubrovnik:

• Dubrovnik Discovery - discover top destinations near Dubrovnik
• Southern Pearls - one-way cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
• Luxury at Sea - one-way luxury cruise from Dubrovnik to Split
• Dubrovnik to Trogir - charming 8-day sailing trip from Dubrovnik to Trogir
• Adventure Sailing - kayaking, snorkeling, cycling and more in this active sailing adventure

Top rated: Dubrovnik Discovery

Depart from Dubrovnik on a week long cruise and explore Mljet, Hvar, Korcula, Trstenik, and Sipan.

More departure ports:

One-day sailing trips:.

• From Dubrovnik
• View all Croatia 1-day sailing trips

Organized tours are excellent ways to explore my beautiful country, and I highly recommend taking at least one trip during your visit. There are limitless fascinating places to see, and you can easily book a tour or day trip from my trusted partners below.

Below are five top rated tours from Split!

Discover more trip ideas:

• Top day trips from Split (my article)
• More tours from Split (100+)
• Tours from Dubrovnik (70+)
• See all tours in Croatia »
• Browse more tours on Viator (200+)

Find transfers and compare prices on:

• SoloTransfers (best prices from Split)
• HappyToVisit
• From Split airport
• From Split city
• From Dubrovnik airport
• From Dubrovnik city

From Any Location:

• Select any pickup and dropoff - from and to 200+ destinations in Croatia.
• From Split to Dubrovnik
• From Dubrovnik to Split
• From Split to Dubrovnik (shared transfer, special offer for only €55)
• From Dubrovnik to Split (shared transfer, special offer for only €55)

More options:

• Hire a private chauffeur (from €166/day)
• Rent a car on AutoEurope (from €40/day)
• Rent a car on RentalCars.com (price comparisons)

Cruises are fantastic and inexpensive way to discover multiple destinations in Croatia.

Split to Dubrovnik Cruise

8 days, 9 destinations

From Dubrovnik to Sipan or Slano, Mljet, Korcula, Bisevo, Vis, Hvar, Bol (Brac island), Makarska, Pucisca (Brac), Omis, and Split

€ 425 - 890

(€ 53 - 111 per day)

From Split to Omis and Makarska, Bol (Brac island), Stari Grad (Hvar island), Vis, Korcula, Mljet, Sipan or Slano, Dubrovnik

€ 480 - 890

(€ 60 - 111 per day)

Young & Fun Party Cruise

8 days, 8 destinations

From Split to Makarska, Korcula, Dubrovnik, Mljet, Hvar, Brac (Bol), Omis

€ 370 - 700

(€ 46 - 87 per day)

• ← Split and Central Dalmatian County
• Top Summer Events and Festivals in Split →

Pero is Splitgg's founder who was born and lived in Split most of his life. His passion for traveling and immense experience from working in tourism industry encouraged him to write many of our expert Split travel guides. More about our authors »

You May Also Like

Visiting Split in Spring

Ferries from Split to Hvar Island

Split Wine Bars For Real Connoisseurs

Currency Converter

Try my free currency converter:

HRK = Hrvatska Kuna - Croatian Kuna

From: HRK GBP EUR USD CAD AUD SGD EGP ARS BBD BRL CLP CNY CZK DKK XCD EEK HKD HUF ISK INR IDR ILS JMD JPY LVL LBP LTL MYR MXN NAD NPR NZD NOK OMR PKR PAB PHP PLN QAR RON RUB SAR ZAR KRW LKR SEK CHF THB TRY VEF

To: HRK GBP EUR USD CAD AUD SGD EGP ARS BBD BRL CLP CNY CZK DKK XCD EEK HKD HUF ISK INR IDR ILS JMD JPY LVL LBP LTL MYR MXN NAD NPR NZD NOK OMR PKR PAB PHP PLN QAR RON RUB SAR ZAR KRW LKR SEK CHF THB TRY VEF

One day in Split Croatia

SPLIT IN ONE DAY

We have highlighted the best experiences that can be comfortably enjoyed on a one-day visit to Split, allowing plenty of time for a dip in the crystal clear Blue Lagoon bay post lunch.

GOOD MORNING SPLIT!

Before entering the palace, take a short jaunt to Pazar, the colorful green market just east of Riva where farmers sell homegrown fruits and vegetables, meats, and dairy.

PALACE ATTRACTIONS

As you walk the length of the substructure, a set of stairs lead you to Peristil, the imperial square from where the emperor used to address his servants and soldiers. Behind the south side protyron is Vestibul, a circular foyer with excellent acoustics for local klapa a’capella singers to perform. Beyond Peristil’s eastern colonnade is Split’s landmark, the 57-meter tall 13th century bell-tower of the Cathedral of St. Duje. Cough up 15kn and you can climb up the belfry to see 360-degree bird-eye views of old town and the harbour. Along the eastern colonnade of Peristil, you will find a narrow passageway that leads you the 3rd century Jupiter’s Temple, a tiny structure characterized by a vaulted ceiling. Originally, it was dedicated to the once highest Roman god before Christians turned it into St. John’s Baptistery.

After a fascinating history lessons through old town, its time for lunch before heading to a private bay for a swim. To mingle with locals, try Villa Spiza, a city-dweller’s hangout with over-the-counter specialties prepared by two friendly sisters. Alternatively, indulge in fine-dining Mediterranean on the rooftop of Paradigma.

BASK IN SPLIT’S BACKYARD

Split is blessed in a sense that the most popular attractions are concentrated within Diocletian’s Palace, allowing you time to enjoy the city’s second blessing, a pristine archipelago of islands as a backyard. Šugaman Tours organize an excellent half-day Blue Lagoon Tour running from 14:30 to 19:30 everyday (they also have a morning tour). You will be taken by speedboat to the Blue Lagoon, a snorkeller’s utopia in an azure enclave between the nearby Krknjaši islands, before being taken through the crooked streets of the UNESCO listed city of Trogir. As you return to Split, capture the sun before it dips into the Adriatic, giving Split’s cityscape an enchanting golden glow.

From coffee on Riva to snorkelling in the Blue Lagoon , you can easily pack culture, history, adventure, and sunshine into one day in Split.

Experience Split in a Day

Split Walking Tour – Inside the Palace

Split walking tour is our signature tour aiming to reveal to you the most interesting sights in and around the Diocletian Palace in the old town of Split.

Marjan Hiking Tour – Reveal Secret Spots

Enjoy breathtaking views of the whole town and Dalmatian islands when you reach the top and take a break from hiking by swimming in crystal clear sea. A great escape from city crowd and amazing opportunity to breath some fresh mountain air and admire the nature.

Duration: approx 3h

Split Walking Tour – Follow the steps of Emperor Diocletian

On this popular Split walking tour we will give you an insight into the emperor’s life and an abstract of the city’s 1700-year-old history. Diocletian’s Palace is a living monument, so do not be surprised to discover that it is the urban center, filled with homes, shops and cafes. This biggest and most precious monument in the city is well preserved and it will be a great walk into Split’s fascinating past.

Duration: 75 min or 120 minutes

Hop on Hopp off Bus Tour Split

Combine the tours within the 24 or 48 hours and discover the most beautiful & interesting sights in Split,Salona,Klis & Trogir. Take the red line and discover modern area of Split by bus followed by the walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace-one of the most significant original structures of the late ancient architecture. Take the blue line and visit Salona,Klis and Trogir and learn important facts about our history and culture.

Segway Tour Split – Let’s glide through the history

Segway tour Split is the perfect and fun way to explore all of the attractions in the old town of Split and go for an picturesque ride in park forest Marjan where you will enjoy in some spectacular views. Take a segway tour and discover many of Split’s hidden sites and protected bays and beaches on Marjan hill.

Duration: 120-135 min

7 top day trips from Split to see more of Croatia

Apr 26, 2022 • 10 min read

Split is the perfect hub for day trips along the Adriatic Coast © NataliaDeriabina / iStockphoto / Getty Images

Alongside nearby Dubrovnik, Split draws travelers to the glittering Adriatic Coast of Croatia in droves, and the many attractions within the Roman city walls are just the start of the allure. With idyllic islands scattered offshore and a hinterland studded with castles, medieval towns and national parks, this historic city is the perfect stop for those who like their city breaks with bonus day trips.

With a few days to spare, you can find your own island in the sun, splash in thundering waterfalls in the hills, and discover medieval townships away from the (sometimes maddening) downtown crowds. Spring is the ideal time to visit this idyllic stretch of coastline before the summertime hordes arrive. 

Inexpensive car hire is available from local companies and there are excellent local bus services, so getting there and back at the end of the day is easy too. Here are our seven favorite day trips from Split to explore more of the Adriatic Coast.

Trogir offers medieval magic less than an hour from Split

Just along the coast from Unesco-listed Diocletian’s Palace in Split is another wonderful World Heritage wonder – historic Trogir , fêted for its extraordinarily well-preserved Romanesque and Renaissance architecture and unique and beautiful location. The old town sits on a small island, separated by narrow channels from the mainland on one side and from forested Čiovo Island on the other. It's a charming jumble of imposing fortifications, leafy gardens and seafront promenades.

Trogir has a laid-back vibe, and is a lovely place to while away a few hours, either wandering through the narrow marble-paved streets or sitting in a seafront cafe watching the world go by. The town’s showpiece is St Lawrence’s Cathedral , which has some incredibly ornate and beautiful carvings around the door and inside the Chapel of St Ivan. The views from the tower are well worth the thigh-busting climb.

How to get to Trogir: It takes about 40 minutes to drive west along the coast to Trogir from Split. There’s a direct intercity bus, or in summer you can catch the shuttle boat run by Bura Line .

Omiš is steeped in seafaring history

The legendary pirates’ lair of Omiš has a dramatic location at the mouth of the Cetina river, where freshwater carves its way through a maze of towering limestone outcrops to reach the Adriatic sea. In the Middle Ages, pirates based here terrorized the surrounding coastal and island communities, using special ships known as sagitta s , which had very shallow keels, allowing the pirates to withdraw beyond the underwater fortifications at the mouth of the river that kept larger ships out at sea.

The pirates constructed two medieval fortresses high above the town to protect it from attackers, and both can be visited for grand views over the town, if your legs can take the climb. It’s also well worth taking an excursion up the Cetina river; the most sedate option is a river cruise, stopping off in a riverside restaurant on the way to sample local specialties such as frogs, eels and snails.

To get the adrenaline pumping, sign up for whitewater rafting on the rapids a little further upstream. You’ll paddle your way through turquoise waters that carve a channel through a lush valley, with tall mountains on either side. Another exciting way to enjoy the spectacular scenery is shooting down the canyon by zipline . Eight wires of varying length and steepness zigzag through the gorge, crossing the river several times on the way.

How to get to Omiš : Omiš is a 40-minute drive east of Split via the coastal highway. City bus 60 heads here every half hour from central Split.

Šolta is a charming island getaway that oozes Adriatic charm

Often overlooked by tourists in favor of its more famous neighbors, the bucolic island of Šolta is ideal for anyone who wants to get away from it all. The island’s most attractive settlements are the seaside towns of Maslinica and Stomorska, which wrap around pretty harbors at opposite ends of the island. Maslinica is the ritzier of the two, with a yacht marina and a luxurious hotel in a restored castle. Stomorska, the island’s oldest coastal settlement, has a more traditional vibe, and is a great place to eat a simple yet delicious lunch of grilled fish and vegetables right by the water.

Inland, the villages are less polished but no less charming, with cobbled streets and shuttered stone cottages, some worn and faded from centuries in the sun. Exploring them provides a great opportunity to sample the island’s local produce – bee and honey lovers will enjoy a visit to  Tverdić Honey in Grohote, while top-quality olive oil is available at Olynthia in Gornje Selo. Also in Gornje Selo, Agroturizam Kaštelanac offers tastings of traditional dark red and innovative rose wines made with Dobričić grapes.

How to get to Šolta: Ferry company Jadrolinija has several ferries and catamarans each day from Split to the port of Rogač. From there you can explore the island by bus, bicycle or even on foot.

Krka National Park is one of Croatia's loveliest places to splash

Extending along the scenic Krka River,  Krka National Park  runs from the Adriatic coast near Šibenik to the rugged mountains of the Croatian interior. It’s a magical place of waterfalls and gorges, with the river gushing at one point through a canyon 200m (656ft) deep. The highlight of the park is an hour-long loop following boardwalks that connect islands in the emerald-green river, ending at the park's largest waterfall,  Skradinski Buk .

This broad cascade drops almost 46m (151ft) before crashing into the lower lake, where visitors gather to splash and swim. Further north, the waterfalls of Roški Slap  are best visited on a boat tour. They begin with shallow steps that continue in a series of branches and islets to become 23m-high cascades. 

The area’s remoteness attracted monks who constructed several monasteries here. Occupying a peaceful position above the river, Krka Monastery is the most important monastery for the Serbian Orthodox faith. Visit mid-June to mid-October to have a national park guide show you around the Byzantine and Mediterranean architecture. At other times you're welcome to visit the church and wander the lakeside path. 

How to get to Krka National Park: Krka has five main entrances – at Skradin, Lozovac, Roški Slap, Krka Monastery and Burnum – and all are accessible by car but hard to reach by public transport. Allow about an hour to drive here from Split.

You can reach dramatic Klis Fortress in half an hour from Split

Just 7 miles (12km) from the city center, Klis Fortress makes for a perfect day excursion from Split, combining an atmospheric and historic castle with impressive views over the Dalmatian coastline. The fortress is spectacularly located high on a ridge, defending the valley that leads to Split. Cobbled ramps and walls zigzag up the hillside, with the castle’s towers and ramparts piled precipitously on top.

The most dramatic event in the fortress’s history happened in 1537, when Ottoman invaders captured Klis from local defenders and mounted their captain’s severed head on a spike. More recently, Klis shot to fame as a Game of Thrones filming location – the terraces and ramparts stood in for the city of Meereen, where Daenerys vengefully crucified the city’s slave masters.

Exploring the ruined castle is great fun, and there are displays of historic armor and weapons in the armory, and Game of Thrones filming stills in the artillery barracks. The fortress is a good spot for a picnic too – you can admire the views of Split and the surrounding islands while gentle breezes keep you delightfully cool. Alternatively, head to the village of Klis Grlo, just below the castle, which is famous for its spit-roast lamb, which is sold by the kilo and eaten with spring onions.

How to get to Klis Fortress: Klis Fortress is a 30-minute drive inland from Split, or you can catch a local bus from the city center, or visit on a guided tour.

Pretty Hvar is the definitive Adriatic island

With historic architecture, gorgeous swimming spots and lively nightlife, the beautiful island of Hvar is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations in its own right. Though it’s worth staying here at least a night or two if you can, it’s also possible to visit Hvar as a day trip from Split – you’ll want to get the fast catamaran direct to Hvar Town , the island’s largest and most charming settlement.

For a picture-perfect view of terracotta-roofed buildings clustered attractively around Hvar's square harbor, climb up to the ramparts of the medieval castle that looms high above the town. Then take a wander through the atmospheric streets of the old town, stopping to try the island’s delicious hvarska gregada (fish stew) at one of the harbor-side restaurants.

If you can tear yourself away from Hvar town, there are plenty of great ways to spend the rest of your day. Stroll along the seafront promenade to find yourself a great spot to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, or take a taxi boat out to one of the Pakleni Islands that lie just off the coast.

If you fancy something more active, & Adventure offers half-day kayaking, cycling and rock-climbing tours. Alternatively, get a feel for the less-visited interior of the island on a jeep safari through abandoned villages and lavender fields to the island’s highest point, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the whole island.

How to get to Hvar: The fastest way to Hvar from Split is by catamaran, which takes just over an hour. In summer (June to September), the earliest departure from Split is at 8:30am with Jadrolinija  with the last return at 9pm. Outside of the high season, if you want to visit Hvar from Split in a day, it’s probably best to take an organized tour.

More medieval thrills await at Mostar in Bosnia and Hercegovina

This little cross-border jaunt will take you to Mostar , the largest city in Hercegovina, with a small but thoroughly enchanting old town center. Visitors gather to admire the Balkans' most celebrated bridge, Stari Most , which forms a majestic stone arc between medieval towers. The bridge's swooping arch was originally built between 1557 and 1566 on the orders of Suleiman the Magnificent.

In fact, the current structure is a very convincing 21st-century rebuild following the bridge's bombardment during the civil war in the 1990s. The span reopened in 2004 and is now a Unesco World Heritage site, famed for its bridge divers, who leap daringly into the deep waters 24m (79ft) below.

Make time for a stroll along narrow  Kujundžiluk , where historical stone-roofed shop-houses bustle joyously with trinket sellers offering inexpensive souvenirs. Beyond the cobbled lanes of the attractively restored Ottoman quarter are whole blocks of bombed-out buildings, a poignant legacy of the 1990s conflict.

The summer welcomes hordes of day-trippers, so, if you're able to stay into the evening, you'll be able to enjoy the lights of numerous millhouse restaurants that twinkle across gushing streams at dusk without the daytime crush of people.

How to get to Mostar:  The city of Mostar is around a 2.5-hour drive from Split and the trip here crosses the Croatia–Bosnia border, so be sure to bring your passport and visas (if needed). There are bus services, but they can take up to 4 hours, so hiring a car is a better option.

You might also like: See the best of Croatia with this week-long itinerary Are these the best places to visit in Croatia? Where to find Game of Thrones tours and attractions after the finale

Anna Tyler traveled to Split in 2018 with support from the Croatian National Tourist Office. The article has since been updated with additional information. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

This article was first published May 8, 2018 and updated Apr 26, 2022.

Explore related stories

May 28, 2024 • 8 min read

See the highlights of Croatia with this week-long itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors.

May 13, 2024 • 13 min read

Mar 20, 2024 • 11 min read

Mar 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

20 Incredible Day Trips From Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia, is your perfect starting point for exploring all the Dalmatian Coast has to offer.

From the historic streets of Split, to the myriad of excursion options that lie just a short journey away, there’s a lot to take in. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Here, we break down the best day trips from Split into bite-sized, practical advice. We’ll give you the lowdown on how to get there, what to see, and how to make the most of your time.

Whether you’re looking to explore ancient ruins, hop on a boat tour to nearby islands, or hike through pristine natural parks, you’ll find perfect day tours to suit your needs! 

Table of Contents

What To consider when planning Day Trips from Split, Croatia?

Split is a great choice if you want a central place to stay in Croatia to explore the country’s major landmarks!

With a historic old town, diverse dining options, nightlife, beaches, central location, and accessible flights from various cities, Split offers a perfect base for day trips to stunning nearby locations.

When planning your excursions from Split, Croatia, there are a few key factors to remember.

1. What are your interests?

Are you interested in history, nature, or adventure? Do you prefer a leisurely pace or more physically demanding activities? This will help narrow down the available options and ensure that you have an enjoyable experience.

If you’re interested in history and culture, you could visit the ancient city of Trogir , Solin, or the medieval Klis Fortress.

If you love nature and outdoor activities, you could take an ATV ride in the Kozjak mountains , kayak on the Cetina River, or sail to the nearby islands.

If you’re looking for relaxation and beaches, you could spend a day at the Blue Lagoon, Zlatni Rat beach on Brač Island , or relax on the beaches of Hvar Island.

2. How much time do you have?

There are day trips, half-day trips, and even multi-day excursions available from Split, Croatia . Consider how much time you want to spend on each excursion and how many excursions you want to fit into your trip.

Some day trips, like a visit to Klis Fortress , or Trogir are shorter and closer to Split, while others, such as a Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes or Dubrovnik, require more travel time.

• Blue Cave And Hvar 5 Island Tour From Split
• Blue Lagoon and 3 Island Speedboat Tour From Split
• Krka Waterfalls Trip with Boat Cruise and Swimming
• Cetina River Rafting and Cliff Jumping Tour From Split

3. What is your budget?

Budget is an important factor to consider when deciding on day trips from Split. Prices for excursions can vary depending on the length of the trip, the activities included, and the transportation options.

For example, a half-day trip to the Blue Lagoon costs about €50 ($55, £ 43) per person, with a boat ride, snorkeling in clear waters, and beach relaxation.

A full-day 5 Islands tour, including visits to the Blue Cave and Hvar, is €100 to €150 ($110-$164, £ 86- £ 130) per person depending on season.

Rafting along Cetina River gorge offers a thrilling view of Croatia’s landscape for €40 to €60 ($44-$66, £ 34- £ 51), depending on transportation inclusion.

Decide how much you want to spend on excursions and choose options that fit your budget.

4. How do you want to go on your day trips?

You can go on your excursions by your own transportation, by public transportation, or by joining a guided tour.

Consider how comfortable you are with each mode of transportation and choose the option that best suits you.

Having your own transportation, such as a rental car, gives you the most flexibility, but it can be a hassle on some trips that require navigating ferry schedules, finding parking in busy urban areas, or driving on unfamiliar roads.

Public transport is the cheapest option, but may not take you everywhere.

Organized tours are stress-free and provide local insights. Opt for private or semi-private tours to avoid crowding in larger groups.

20 Best Excursions From Split, Croatia

Day trips from Split, Croatia, include visits to islands, historic towns, and natural parks and participating in outdoor activities. We’ve divided these excursions from Split into four categories: boat trips, national parks, outdoor activities, and cultural and historical trips.

Whether you are into water sports, outdoor activities, history, nature, food, wine, beach hopping, and sailing, you’ll find something  to do in Split, Croatia .

Check out our top Split tours! Find all the details for self-guided or group tours. Tours range from 3 to 11 hours, offering half-day and full-day options to suit everyone.

Blue Cave Brac Island Hvar Island Solta Island Blue Lagoon Sailing Day Trip

History & Culture

Solin & Klis Fortress Trogir Mostar Dubrovnik Zadar

National Parks

Krka Waterfalls Plitvice Lakes

Outdoor Activities

Rafting Zip-Line Canyoning Canoe Safari River Tubing ATV Ride Jeep Safari

Hvar, Solta, Drenik Veli, Brac, and Vis islands are easily accessible from Split.

Solin, Klis Fortress, Trogir, Dubrovnik, and Zadar are all worth a day trip from Split for those who enjoy history. Visit Mostar from Split to experience something different than coastal scenery.

Don’t miss the nearby Krka Waterfalls and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

For adventure seekers, the nearby town of Omis offers rafting, canoeing, zip-lining, canyoning, and river tubing. Visit Mosor and Kozjak mountains to enjoy quad rides, hiking, and jeep safari.

1. Blue Cave Tour

A visit to Blue Cave is among the most popular day trips from Split. Located on Bisevo Island, Blue Cave is a must-see attraction for its unique blue hue that illuminates the cave when sunlight passes through an underwater opening.

How to get there?

Blue Cave is among the destinations that are best explored through organized tours. Located on Bisevo Island, it’s a remote spot with limited daily ferry services connecting Split and Bisevo.

Access to the cave is closely monitored and authorized only through official park operator vessels.

Numerous agencies in Split provide comprehensive full-day excursions to the Blue Cave, typically as part of multi-island tours covering Hvar, Paklinski Islands, Vis, Brac, and Budikovac islands.

How much does it costs to visit Blue Cave from Split?

A full-day trip to Blue Cave costs between €100 and €150 ($110-$165, £85-£130) depending on the season.

The price includes a speedboat transfer from Split to Blue Cave, and 4 other islands, entrance ticket to the cave, as well as a guide, and swimming and snorkeling stops.

What is the duration of a day trip from Split to Blue Cave?

The duration of a day trip from Split to Blue Cave is 10-11 hours. This is a full-day trip!

Recommended tours to Blue Cave from Split

Blue Cave and Hvar 5 Islands Tour From Split Blue Cave & Five Islands With Hvar Boat Tour Blue Cave, Vis & Hvar Full-Day Trip by Speedboat

2. Brac Island and Zlatni Rat Beach

Brac Island is just a short ferry ride from Split, and it makes for an excellent day trip. The island boasts beautiful beaches, charming villages, and impressive historical sites.

Zlatni Rat Beach, located in Bol on Brac Island, is Croatia’s most iconic and photographed beach. Its unique shape and crystal clear waters make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Other popular activities on Brac Island include hiking to the top of Vidova Gora, the highest point in the Adriatic islands, and exploring the ancient town of Bol. Try local specialties such as olive oil, wine, sheep cheese, and fresh lamb while on the island.

You can plan this full-day trip from Split to Brac Island independently or by joining one of the organized tours.

Organized tours often combine a visit to Brac with a visit to other nearby islands, most often Hvar or Solta, or both. These tours include transportation, a guide, and some free time to explore on your own.

Opting for a solo adventure is ideal if you have transportation to fully experience Brac Island’s splendors. However, if you don’t have your own transportation, we recommend taking a catamaran from Split to Bol .

Apart from visiting Bol and the renowned Zlatni Rat Beach, explore the other picturesque beaches on the island’s southern side, particularly around Murvica.

How much does a day trip from Split to Brac cost?

A day trip from Split to Brac costs anywhere between €40 and €110 ($44-$120, £34-£94). The cost largely depends on whether you choose to do it independently or join a guided tour.

If you decide to take a catamaran from Split to Brac Island, the one-way ticket will cost you €20 ($22, £17). However, if you opt for a guided tour, be prepared to spend between €70 and €110 ($77-$120, £60-£94) per person.

What is the duration of a day trip from Split to Brac?

The duration of a day trip from Split to Brac is a minimum of 7-8 hours, while organized tours to Brac Island take at least 10 hours. This is a full-day trip!

Recommended Split to Brac Island Tours

Half Day All Inclusive Cruise to Islands Brac and Solta Hvar, Brac & Pakleni islands cruise with lunch & drinks from Split

3. Hvar Island

Hvar Island is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, charming medieval towns, great food, and celebrity sightings. But, beyond the glitz and glam, hidden gems are waiting to be discovered.

Hvar Town is the island’s main hub, full of life with its maze-like cobblestone streets lined with quaint boutiques and cafes.

On your trip, make sure to visit Hvar Town, explore the Pakleni Islands, relax at Hvar’s beach clubs, check out popular beaches, and try some local food and wine tasting!

It is easy to travel from Split to Hvar , with several companies operating catamarans and car ferries throughout the day.

If you’re planning a day trip from Split to Hvar , you can do it independently or by joining an organized tour.

If you have transportation, it’s best to explore Hvar Island on your own. However, if you don’t have your own transportation, you can still visit Hvar on your own. In such a case, we recommend taking a catamaran from Split to Hvar Town. Book catamaran tickets in advance!

Full-day organized tours usually take you to Hvar along with other nearby islands such as Brac, Solta, or Vis, sometimes all of them. These tours include transportation, a guide, and some free time for you to explore independently.

How much does it cost to visit Hvar from Split for a day?

Visiting Hvar from Split for a day will cost you anywhere between €40 and €150 ($44-$165, £34-£130), depending on whether you take an organized tour or visit independently.

A catamaran to Hvar Town from Split costs €20 ($22, £17), one-way. An organized Split to Hvar tour, on the other hand, costs between €100 and €150 ($110-$165, £86-£130) per person.

This cost does not cover additional expenses incurred during your trip, such as visiting Pakleni Islands on your own, having lunch at a local tavern, or booking a wine tour. These expenses must be budgeted separately.

What is the duration of a day trip from Split to Hvar?

The duration of a day trip from Split to Hvar is a minimum of 7-8 hours, while organized tours to Hvar Island take at least 10 hours. This is a full-day trip!

Recommended Day Tours From Split To Hvar

Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Hvar & Pakleni Islands Hvar and Red Rocks – Private boat tour from Split

4. Solta Island

If you want a quieter, more secluded island experience, consider a day trip to Solta Island. The island boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Solta, the closest island to Split, offers an untouched paradise with historical sites like the Gradac fortress and centuries-old churches. Visitors can explore beekeeping and olive oil making and enjoy the famous Dobričić red wine while relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches.

To get to Solta Island from Split, you can take a ferry from the port. The journey takes just half an hour, and boats depart throughout the day. This is the cheapest option to reach Solta Island from Split.

You can also opt for a private boat tour or hire a speedboat to reach Solta Island. This option allows you to customize your itinerary and explore the island at your own pace. But this option is the most expensive.

Lastly, you can book a group tour that offers a day trip to Solta Island. These tours usually include a visit to Blue Lagoon or other nearby islands.

How much does it cost to visit Solta Island from Split?

Traveling from Split to Solta Island can range from €11 to €90 ($12-$99, £9-£77). Opting for a round-trip ferry ticket at just €11 ($12, £9) per person makes a day excursion to Solta one of the most economical choices.

For a half-day voyage to Solta Island and the Blue Lagoon, expect to spend around €50 ($55, £43). If you prefer a private boat tour, the cost averages at about €360 ($400, £308), or €90 ($99, £77) per person for a group of four.

What is the duration of a day trip from Split to Solta Island?

The duration of a day trip from Split to Solta Island is a minimum of 3 hours, while organized tours to Solta Island take about 4 to 5 hours. This is a half-day trip!

Recommended Day Trips From Split To Solta Island

Private Boat Tour From Split To Solta Island Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck, & Šolta with Lunch & Drinks Three Island Tour from Split With Lunch

5. Blue Lagoon

If you are visiting Trogir during the summer, consider taking a short boat ride to the island of Drvenik Veliki. It is one of the best places for swimming and snorkeling in the area.

Drvenik Veliki is a small island, just over an hour’s boat ride from Trogir. Very few people live on the island, and no big tourist infrastructure exists.

The most popular spot on the island is Uvala Krknjasi, popularly called Blue Lagoon due to its turquoise waters. Many local agencies offer a day trip to Blue Lagoon from Split .

To reach the Blue Lagoon from Split, you have the option of taking a ferry, booking a private boat tour, or joining a group tour.

Ferries to Drvenik Veliki Island depart from Trogir, so your first step is reaching Trogir. To travel from Split to Trogir, you can opt for public transportation or use your own vehicle. Check bus schedule and book tickets online!

Once in Trogir, you’ll board a ferry to the island. The journey takes around an hour to reach Drvenik Veliki Island. Some days, the ferry also stops at Drvenik Mali Island, extending the crossing time to approximately 1.5 hours.

Once you arrive at the ferry terminal on Drvenik Veliki, you can easily walk to the Blue Lagoon, which is located 3 km away on the opposite side of the island. The leisurely stroll from the ferry terminal to the Blue Lagoon typically takes around 40 minutes.

Traveling to the Blue Lagoon on your own presents challenges due to the need to coordinate various transportation modes and schedules.

Opting for a guided group tour from Split is the most convenient way to experience this destination unless you prefer the flexibility of a private boat tour, which is the priciest option.

While private boat tours offer more freedom, organized group tours remain the favored choice for visiting the Blue Lagoon for a day. They are highly popular among visitors to Split. These guided tours often include a visit to Solta Island as well.

How much does a day tour from Split to Blue Lagoon cost?

A day trip from Split to the Blue Lagoon typically costs between €16 ($18, £14) and €50 ($55, £43) per person.

Opting for an independent visit to the Blue Lagoon with a round-trip ferry and bus ticket at just €16 ($18, £14) per person offers the most budget-friendly option, despite being more complex.

For a half-day excursion to the Blue Lagoon, budget around €50 ($55, £43), while a private boat tour is priced at €360 ($400, £308), or €90 ($99, £77) per person for a group of four.

How much time do I need for a day trip From Split to Blue Lagoon?

Allocate at least 5 hours for a day trip from Split to Blue Lagoon, whether you choose to explore independently or opt for a guided tour. This is a half-day trip from Split!

Recommended Day Trips from Split to Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon and 3 Islands Speedboat Tour From Split Trogir and Blue Lagoon Half-Day Tour From Split Blue Lagoon Boat Party with DJs, Shots & After-Party

6. Sailing Day Trip From Split

How about a simple day of sailing from Split with nowhere to go and no set destination where you need to arrive? Just pure relaxation at the sea. Away from the hustle and bustle of Split Old Town or any other tourist-filled sites.

Now, that’s the way to unwind! A Scottish couple organizes day and sunset sailing trips for up to six persons on board their 42-foot sailing boat Nera. The sailing day trip includes a chef-quality meal and local wines! This great, intimate tour allows you to escape the throngs of tourists, find serenity in the open waters, discover hidden coves and secluded bays only accessible by boat, and relax.

Trip Duration and Prices

The day sailing tour, lasting 7 hours from 10 am to 5 pm, offers drinks and a freshly prepared lunch at €210 per person ($230, £180). For a shorter excursion, the sunset sailing tour includes small bites and drinks, with an optional dinner, priced at €85 per person ($94, £73).

Boarding takes place at Split’s West Coast, just a brief stroll from the Riva Waterfront and the historic town center. Accessing it on foot is convenient and effortless!

More info on the Sunburst Sailing website .

7. Solin & Klis Fortress Day Trip

If you like history and want a short and economical day trip from Split, visit Solin and Klis Fortress.

Solin, 6 km from Split, was a key Roman administrative center in Dalmatia, known as Salona in ancient times. For history enthusiasts, a trip to Solin from Split promises an enriching experience, with Roman remains like a basilica, amphitheater, pillars, and sarcophagi.

On the other hand, the medieval Klis Fortress lies less than 15 km from Split, between the Kozjak and Mosor Mountains. Perched on a cliff, the site offers more than ruins; visitors can explore a museum and church, enjoying stunning views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. The Klis Fortress is also known as a filming set for Meereen scenes in the HBO Games of Thrones series.

You can easily reach Solin using Split public bus no. 1. Otherwise, you can book a guided group tour.

Similarly, you can visit Klis Fortress on a self-guided tour, by car, or local bus. Bus number 22 leaves from HNK station in Split ( location ). Or, you can book a guided day trip from Split to Klis Fortress.

Many tours combine a visit to Salona with Klis Fortress, and sometimes even Trogir, as a part of a combo historical tour from Split.

To reach Solin, take Split public bus no. 1 or a guided group tour.

For Klis Fortress, you can choose a self-guided tour, driving there, or taking the local bus. Bus number 22 departs from HNK station in Split ( location ). Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip from Split to Klis Fortress.

Many tour agencies offer a combined visit to Salona along with Klis Fortress , and sometimes even Trogir, as part of a comprehensive historical tour departing from Split.

If you decide to visit these sites on a self-guided tour, budget a bus fare and entrance tickets for both sites – Salona ruins and Klis Fortress.

A bus to Klis or Solin will set you back €3 ($3.30, £2.60). The entrance fee to the archeological site in Solin costs €8 ($8.80, £7), and Klis fortress costs €10 ($11, £8.60) to visit.

A private guided tour to Klis and Solin costs €300 ($330, £260), while a group tour on a hop-off-hop-on bus costs as little as €20 and provides a transfer to both sites, plus Trogir.

How much time do I need to visit Solin and Klis Fortress?

When traveling by public bus or on a guided tour, allocate 3 hours for each site or 5 hours for both. If traveling by car, you can schedule 3 hours for both sites.

Recommended Tours To Solin and Klis Fortress

Hop On Hop Off Bus Big Historical Tour Private Salona and Fortress of Klis Tour Sunset Klis Fortress Bus and Walking Tour of Split

Trogir is a medieval town located on a small island between the Croatian mainland and the island of Čiovo, less than 30 km from Split.

The historic center of Trogir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , rich in historical architecture and beautiful landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, the Kamerlengo Fortress, and the Cipiko Palace.

St. Lawrence Church stands out for its beauty, along with the historic former Duke’s Palace, now used as the city hall. Don’t miss the charming clock tower and loggia while exploring the area.

Visiting Trogir is a must-do day trip from Split.

How to get there

Trogir is easily accessible from Split by bus or car, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. The city bus number 37 links Split to Trogir, departing from Bus Terminal Sukoisan in Split, with a travel duration of about 1 hour.

Trogir is also a popular day trip destination, with many organized tours available from Split.

How much time does it take to visit Trogir from Split?

If visiting Trogir as a day trip, allocate 3-4 hours to explore the city and its main attractions.

How much does the Split to Trogir Day Trip cost?

The cost of a day trip to Trogir from Split varies depending on the mode of transportation and whether it is part of a guided tour.

On average, a return bus journey costs €8 ($8.80, £7) per person, while organized tours can range from €20 to €70 ($22-$77, £17-£60) per person. You can check availability and book a bus ticket here!

Recommended Day Trips To Trogir From Split

Half-Day Split & Trogir Small Group Guided Tour Half-Day Trogir & Blue Lagoon Tour

9. Split to Mostar day trip

If you plan to stay in Split for a few days, and you would like to experience something different than Croatian coastal scenery, visit Mostar.

Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina, is a beautiful medieval town with characteristic Ottoman architecture. The town is famous for its Old Bridge, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most iconic sights, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can also explore the charming old town, visit traditional cafes and markets, and admire the diverse religious architecture. One of the must-visit places is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, which offers stunning views of Mostar from its minaret.

Mostar is just a bit over a two-hour drive from Split, and the drive is easy. Go early in the morning to make the most of your visit to Mostar.

Mostar is accessible from Split by car or bus. A direct bus ride takes around 2.5 hours, with buses departing from Split Central Bus Station.

If traveling by car, take the A1 motorway towards Dubrovnik, exit at Medugorje, and follow the signs to Mostar. The final stretch covers 35 km from Međugorje to Mostar, following a single-carriageway state road that winds through many villages.

If you’re pressed for time, not keen on driving in a foreign land, or renting a car seems pricey, opt for a group tour instead of managing the tour on your own. Numerous travel agencies provide full-day tours from Split to Mostar, often including visits to Medugorje, the renowned pilgrimage site, and Kravica Waterfalls.

How much does it cost to visit Mostar from Split?

The cost of a day trip to Mostar from Split varies depending on the mode of transportation and the tour operator. If traveling by bus, a one-way ticket costs around €18 ($20, £15). You can book a bus ticket online here!

For a group tour, the price is about €70 ($77, £60) per person.

Duration of the visit

A day trip from Split to Mostar is a full-day excursion, lasting 10-12 hours, with around 3 hours spent in Mostar itself. This allows for enough time to explore the town’s major attractions, grab a bite at a local restaurant, and shop for souvenirs at the bazaar.

Recommended Split To Mostar Day Tours

Mostar Tour with Kravica Waterfalls From Split Mostar and Medjugorje Full-Day Tour From Split

10. Dubrovnik Day Trip

A day trip from Split to Dubrovnik attracts many travelers seeking to explore Croatia’s diverse landscapes and rich history.

Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city located in the southern part of Croatia. With its picturesque old town surrounded by ancient walls, Dubrovnik is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. It’s also a popular filming location for the hit TV show Game of Thrones.

Among many things to do in Dubrovnik , for a day trip, we recommend taking a walk on top of the ancient city walls for breathtaking views, visiting the Rector’s Palace, relaxing on the beautiful beaches, such as Banje Beach or Sveti Jakov Beach, or taking a walking tour to learn about Dubrovnik’s history.

How far is Dubrovnik from Split?

Dubrovnik is approximately 220km (140 miles) from Split. The journey by car takes around 3-4 hours, while a bus ride can take up to 5 hours.

Getting to Dubrovnik from Split

Numerous transportation options exist for traveling from Split to Dubrovnik , such as driving, taking a bus, or ferry, or joining a coach tour.

Explore the stunning coastal beauty of Croatia by renting a car and driving along the picturesque D8 route. Known for its breathtaking views, this coastal road is a must-see. For an even more spectacular experience, take the time to ascend the historic Napoleon Road in the charming village of Slano. More details on the old Napoleon Road are here .

There are frequent bus connections between Split and Dubrovnik. The drive along the scenic Adriatic coast is a popular tourist route, and bus trips are both affordable and comfortable.

During the summer months, there is a direct ferry from Split to Dubrovnik that takes around 5 hours. Opting for Krilo’s catamaran gives you just over 3 hours in Dubrovnik, which may feel rushed. A suggestion for a more leisurely exploration of Dubrovnik is to consider combining ferry travel for one leg of the journey and bus travel for the other, allowing ample time to discover the city.

For those who want a more organized tour, several coach tours operate between Split and Dubrovnik.

How long is a day tour from Split to Dubrovnik?

A day tour from Split to Dubrovnik typically lasts around 12-14 hours, depending on the specific tour operator. This includes transport time, sightseeing stops along the way, and free time in Dubrovnik to explore on your own.

How much does the Split to Dubrovnik Day trip cost?

The cost of a day trip from Split to Dubrovnik varies based on transportation mode and season. Typically, prices range from €40 to €90 ($44-$99, £35-£77) per person. O

pting for a public bus is the most economical choice for a day visit to Dubrovnik from Split, with a round-trip ticket priced at about €40 ($44, £34). Alternatively, organized coach tours cost approximately €70 ($77, £60), while a round trip via ferry amounts to €90 ($99, £77).

These costs cover transport from Split to Dubrovnik, and guided tours if applicable. Remember to budget for extra expenses like meals, beverages, and entrance fees in Dubrovnik.

Recommended Split to Dubrovnik Day Trips

Split to Dubrovnik Guided Day Tour Dubrovnik Full-Day Tour from Split

11. Day Trip To Zadar

In addition to the popular Split to Dubrovnik day trip, there are also several options for day trips from Split to Zadar.

This historic city, located about 158 km (98 miles) north of Split, is known for its ancient Roman ruins, charming old town, and beautiful coastal scenery.

With a trendy city atmosphere, fewer crowds, a picturesque seafront, and one of the most stunning sunsets on the Adriatic, Zadar offers a unique experience.

Key attractions include the mesmerizing Sea Organs, the innovative Greeting to the Sun installation, the historic Church of St. Donat, and the bustling Forum Square.

How far is Zadar from Split?

Zadar is located approximately 158 kilometers (98 miles) north of Split. This distance can be covered in about two hours by car or by bus.

Getting from Split to Zadar

The most popular and convenient way to reach Zadar from Split is by taking a bus. Bus tickets can be purchased at the Split main bus terminal or online through various ticketing websites such as Bookaway.

Another option is to rent a car and drive to Zadar. The scenic coastal route offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and makes for a beautiful road trip.

For a hassle-free experience, guided tours from Split to Zadar are also an option. These tours include transportation, an informative guide, and stops at key attractions along the route.

Duration of a day trip from Split to Zadar

A day trip from Split to Zadar typically takes around 7-10 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and stops along the way.

The bus journey or drive takes around 2 hours each way, leaving the rest up to you. We suggest setting aside a minimum of 3 hours to discover Zadar and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

How much does it cost to visit Zadar from Split?

The cost of visiting Zadar from Split depends on the mode of transportation and activities chosen.

Traveling by bus typically costs around €15 ($17, £13) per person, while rcar rentals range from €25-€70 ($28-$77, £21-£60) daily for an economy-size car. Guided tours usually start at €50 per person (for groups of at least 8 individuals).

These estimates exclude additional costs like entrance fees, meals, and beverages, which should be budgeted separately.

Recommended Day Trips From Split To Zadar

Private Day Trip to Zadar From Split

12. A Day Trip To Krka Waterfalls

Located only an hour from Split, Krka Waterfalls National Park is a must-visit destination.

While Krka Waterfalls are not as well-known as Plitvice Lakes, they are just as stunning. Additionally, visitors can swim in designated areas of the emerald waters.

The park boasts stunning waterfalls, cascades, crystal clear pools for swimming, natural caves, and picturesque walking trails through lush greenery.

The Krka River boasts several main attractions, including the 22m high Roski slap waterfall, the longest travertine barrier Skradinski buk , the tiny i sland Visovac featuring the Franciscan Monastery, and the 15th-century Church of Our Lady of Visovac.

There are many other interesting sights to see, including various caves, remains of medieval fortresses, and beautifully restored watermills.

Visitors can join guided tours or explore the park on their own. Entrance fees to the park vary depending on the season and type of ticket but typically range from 4 to 15 euros.

Tips For Visiting Krka Waterfalls

If you want to see all the main sights, go early in the morning and spend the entire day in the park.

If you’re short on time , we recommend to limit your visit to one or two sites . Skradinski Buk is conveniently located, and it is the most popular site to visit. The round trail around Skradinski Buk is only 2 km long and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, including any photo stops you may take.

No matter how you explore Krka National Park, bring your swimsuit , as swimming in the crystal clear waters is an unforgettable experience.

In addition, don’t forget comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water, as there are many trails, wooden boardwalks, and lots of water, making it slippery.

The most convenient way to explore Krka is by car , as the park is spread across a vast area, and a car would enable you to visit all the sites.

Krka Waterfalls Entrance Price

Ticket prices | Nov-March: €7 ($7.70, £5.80) per adult, €4 ($4.40, £3.40) per child (7-18) | April, May, Oct: 20 € ($22, £18.80) per adult, €12 ($13.20, £10.20) per child (7-18) | June-Sept: €40 ($44.40, £34.40) per adult, €15 ($16.50, 12.80 £) per child (7-18);

The ticket includes all sites, a boat ticket from Skradin to Skradinski buk, and a bus ticket from entrance Lozovac to Skradinski buk. Boats and buses don’t run from Nov to March.

How do you get to Krka Waterfalls from Split?

Take a bus or drive to Skradin, the main entrance to Krka National Park. From there, you can take a boat tour to Skradinski Buk. You can also drive directly to the Skradinski Buk. However, we recommend going to Skradin and taking a boat ride.

If you are driving to Krka Waterfalls from Split, take the A1 motorway at junction Dugopolje in the direction of Zagreb and exit at junction Sibenik or Skradin, depending if you plan to take a boat or not. The signs are well-marked, so you won’t miss it. There are plenty of parking lots in Skradin (fees apply) and Lozovac (free), so you don’t need to worry about finding a parking spot.

Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip from Split, including transportation, entrance fees, and a tour guide.

Duration of Visit

The duration of your visit to Krka Waterfalls depends on the activities you plan to do and the sites you want to explore. Allocate a minimum of 7-8 hours for this visit, including time for a lunch break.

the drive to Krka from Split takes 1 hour each way. The boat ride from Skradin takes about 30 minutes each way. And on average, visitors spend 2-3 hours at Skradinski Buk, the main waterfall in Krka National Park.

If you want to explore other sites, such as Roski Slap, the duration of your visit will be longer. We recommend setting aside at least 5-6 hours in the Krka National Park alone.

Finally, if you plan to swim in the waterfalls or enjoy a picnic, consider adding an extra hour or two to your visit. The natural beauty and tranquility of Krka Waterfalls may make you want to stay longer than planned!

Guided coach tours from Split to Krka usually take around 10 hours.

The cost of a day trip from Split to Krka Waterfalls

The cost of a day trip to Krka Waterfalls from Split varies depending on the time of your visit, the type of tour, and the inclusions.

Basic group tours usually start at around €50 ($55, £43) per person, including the entrance ticket to the park. However, you can also book transportation only, which can cost as little as €17 ($19, £15) a person, making it cheaper than the regular Split-Skrdin bus (priced around €22 / $24 / £19 for a round-trip ticket).

Entrance to the park can cost anywhere between €7 to €40 ($8-$44, £6-£34) per person, contingent upon your visit date. 

Remember that additional expenses such as food, souvenirs, and optional activities may not be included in the tour price.

Recommended tours to Krka Waterfalls National Park

Krka Waterfalls and Wine Tasting from Split Krka Waterfalls Trip with Boat Cruise and Swimming from Split

13. Plitvice Lakes tour from Split

Located about 2.5 hours from Split, the Plitvice Lakes National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Croatia’s natural jewels. Known for its cascading lakes and breathtaking waterfalls, a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Split provides an unforgettable experience of Croatia’s scenic beauty.

Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes from Split for a Day

• Start Early : To make the most of your day, it’s wise to begin your trip to Plitvice Lakes early in the morning. This helps you avoid crowds and fully enjoy the serene ambiance of the park.
• Choose the ideal walking route: The park offers 8 official circular walking tours ranging from 2 to 7 hours. Select a route that matches your fitness level and available time.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes : Be prepared for considerable walking along wooden pathways and trails. They are also often slippery!

Plitvice Lakes: Entrance fee

Entrance tickets | Nov-March: €10 ($11, £8.60) per adult, €4 ($4.40, £3.40) per child (7-18) | April, May, Oct: 23 € ($24.30, £19.70) per adult, €6 ($6.60, £5.10) per child (7-18) | June-Sept: €40 ($44.40, £34.40) per adult, €15 ($16.50, £12.80) per child (7-18);

The ticket covers access to all walking routes, boat rides, and electric vehicle rides within the park. Parking is available at an additional cost of €1 to €1.50 ($1.10-$1.60, £0.86-£1.30) depending on the season.

How to Get from Split to Plitvice Lakes

To reach Plitvice Lakes from Split, you can take a bus, rent a car, or join an organized tour. The distance between Split and Plitvice Lakes is approximately 260 km, and the trip usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car, or 3.5 to 4 hours by bus.

During the summer season, buses are available throughout the day, but in the off-season, they run less frequently, so it’s important to check schedules in advance on the Bookaway website.

If you visit Plitvice as part of an organized tour, you will travel by coach. The journey takes about the same time as traveling by bus.

If you drive to Plitvice, you can take the old national road D1 or the new highway A1. We recommend taking the highway A1 because it’s shorter and safer.

You can enter the A1 at the Dugopolje junction and exit at the Gornja Ploca junction. From there, you’ll join the national road D1 that will take you directly to the entrance of the Plitvice National Park.

Park either at Entrance 2 (closer when coming from the direction of Split) or Entrance 1, which is only 3 km north of Entrance 2. We recommend starting the tour at Entrance 1.

How Much Does a Day Trip from Split to Plitvice Cost?

The cost of day trips from Split to Plitvice Lakes is approximately €100 ($110, £86) per person, which includes transportation and entrance tickets. Expenses such as meals, guides, and souvenirs are not included in this cost and must be budgeted separately.

What is the duration of a day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes?

To fully enjoy your visit to Plitvice Lakes from Split, it is recommended to set aside a full day. The return journey alone takes at least 5 hours, while the minimum time required to explore the park is 2 to 3 hours (although more time is advised). Additionally, you should factor in a lunch break, which brings the total time required to at least 10 hours.

If you don’t feel like rushing, you can stay overnight near the park, and return to Split the next day. There are lots of family-run hotels and other accommodation near the Plitvice Lakes National Park . There are also a couple of state-run hotels at the entrance to the park, like hotel Jezero .

Recommended Day Tours From Split to Plitvice Lakes

• Plitvice Lakes Guided Day Tour from Split with Tickets
• Plitvice Lakes Tour with Entry Tickets from Split or Trogir
• Self-Guided Plitvice Lakes Day Tour from Split with Boat Ride

14. white-water rafting

Rafting on the Cetina River is one of the most popular outdoor adventures in Croatia, and one of our favorite day trips from Split . And there are no excuses not to try it!

First, Omis, a small coastal town where white-water rafting awaits you, is a gem for all kinds of adventures (rafting, canoeing, canyoning, zip-lining …), and it’s only 20 km south of Split.

Second, haven’t you always been dreaming about putting that wet suit on?! Everybody simply looks… well … ridiculously funny!

Third, this is one of those places where, as an adult, you can scream … along with your adult companions in the raft.

All jokes aside, rafting on the Cetina River is a must. It doesn’t take any previous experience to do this tour. The course is 4-hours long, but it’s not all paddling. It also includes a few short stops along the way for swimming (only for those who don’t fret cold waters), cliff jumping, and resting.

We recommend this rafting tour with cliff jumping!

Many agencies offer rafting on the river, with a transfer from and to Split. Prices go from €50 ($55, £43) without a transfer to €70 (77 $, £60) with transfer included .

15. Zip-line over Cetina Canyon

Note for all: For those who haven’t done it yet – zip-lining is awesome! For those who have done it already – you know what I’m talking about!

When in Split, don’t miss on zip-lining across the Cetina River Canyon . The site is a short 20 km ride from Split (in summer it takes 45 minutes by car because of heavy traffic between Split and Omis).

Once there, you’ll have a choice of eight lines , each of different lengths, heights, and speeds. At the fastest wire, you can catch a speed of up to 65 km per hour. All that while hanging 150 m above the ground and admiring fantastic views over the canyon.

Do a tour on your own if you have a car to reach the site. But make sure you book at least two days in advance. You can do so through the Zip-line Croatia website . The price is 65€ ($72, £56) per person.

If you’d rather have organized transport, consider a guided tour. We recommend this Cetina River Zipline Experience !

16. Canyoning

If you search for even more adrenaline rush than rafting, zip-lining, or sky-diving, try canyoning during your time in Split?

A short drive from Split, you can choose between two sites to try your hand at canyoning: Badnjevica, and Cetina.

Badnjevica is more popular among locals than tourists. It’s a lovely canyon of river Suvaja, in Imotski region.

Canyoning in Badnjevica includes hiking through the forest and shallow water, abseiling down a 17 m-long waterfall, swimming, and cliff jumping. You can find more info on the Split Adventures website .

Cetina canyoning is one of the best outdoor activities near Split. You can choose between standard and extreme canyoning. Both tours start in the village of Zadvarje where you get a safety brief.

Afterward, guides take you to the starting point where you start the adventure with repelling down a cliff into the water.

The tours combine some hiking, rope lowering, cliff jumping, swimming, and floating down the river pushed by streams, and rapids.

Bear in mind that the tour takes around 5 hours (including a transfer from and to Split). Bring a good pair of hiking shoes , the rest of the equipment is provided (even shoes are provided, but we prefer wearing our shoes).

The temperature of the water is anywhere between 15 °C and 17 °C, depending on the season.

Lots of agencies offer this day trip, like Adventure Dalmatia, and Split Adventure.

Prices go from €50 ($55, £43) without a transfer to €70 (77 $, £60) with transfer included.

The prices for standard canyoning on Cetina River go from €50 ($55, £43) per person without transfer to €70 (77 $, £60) per person with transfer from Split included.

Cetina River extreme canyoning , on the other hand, costs €75 ($83, £64) per person without transfer, or €95 ($105, £81) per person with transfer included.

17. Canoe safari

You must have figured out by now that Cetina River is THE place for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Split, Croatia.

Canoe safari is basically rafting in calm waters, and in summer, waters on Cetina are rather calm. This means that canoe safari is more appropriate than rafting at this time of the year.

The canoe safari tour lasts a bit less than four hours, but worry not, you don’t spend all the time paddling. The course is just over ten kilometers, and it includes a few swimming stops along the way.

Prices start at €45 ($50, £39) per person. Check availability here!

18. River tubing

When you feel lazy but still want to experience some outdoor activities, river tubing comes as an ideal adventure.

River tubing on Cetina River is fun. It requires a minimum fitness level (Yay for that!) . And if you are anything like me, you prefer sports that include lying down.

River tubing happens at a calm part of river Cetina, along a 3 km long course . There are few rapids to push you down the stream, but for the rest you’ll be floating down the river, relaxing in your tube, admiring lovely scenery.

19. Explore the countryside with ATV

A quad ride through the abandoned villages in the mountains above Split is another adventure in Split worth taking. The ride gives you an opportunity to experience a different Croatia, far from the main tourist sites.

You’ll drive through half-abandoned villages , stop at the heights of mountains for spectacular views , and end your tour with a lovely picnic before heading back to Split.

Book This Half-Day ATV Tour Here!

20. Jeep Safari

We’ve just given you an idea of hiking Mosor Mountain. But, maybe you aren’t keen on hiking unknown mountains on your own. Or, you aren’t in shape for hiking at all. Still, you too would like to experience Split’s hinterland  and fresh mountainous air. Don’t worry!

Get onboard a jeep, for an exciting ride on Mosor Mountain. The tour takes you along the south slopes of Mosor to the abandoned villages in the hinterland. You’ll also have a chance to experience an off-road drive along the mountain, as well as to visit some typical villages and enjoy a BBQ by the river. Highly recommended! More information here …

Why Should You Stay In Split, Croatia?

You should stay in Split during your Croatia trip because of its central location, historic old town, diverse dining options, nightlife, beaches, and accessible flights from major European cities.

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, situated on the Dalmatian coast. Located in the heart of Dalmatia, Split is a bustling coastal city that offers an unforgettable experience to all who visit.

Here are the 7 reasons to choose Split for your base during your trip to Croatia!

• Accessibility! With an international airport and ferry port, it’s easy to reach from major cities such as London, Paris, and Rome. It’s also well-connected to other popular destinations in Croatia, like Dubrovnik, Zadar, and the islands of Hvar and Brac.
• Central location! You can take plenty of day trips from Split to explore the surrounding area. From visiting the Krka National Park with its stunning waterfalls to taking a boat tour around the nearby islands, there’s something for every type of traveler. For adventure seekers, Split also offers exciting activities like skydiving and quad rides on Mosor Mountain.
• Size! Split is the second largest city in Croatia and has something to offer year-round, not just during the summer.
• Rich History! But beyond its convenient location, Split has a rich history dating back to ancient times when the Roman Emperor Diocletian founded it. The UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace is a must-visit site with impressive architecture and well-preserved ruins.
• Culinary scene! In addition to its historical significance, Split offers a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes.
• Nightlife! Visitors can also enjoy the lively nightlife in the city, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
• Beaches! For those seeking relaxation, there are several beaches in Split, including the popular Bacvice Beach, with its clear waters and sandy shores.

No matter your interests, Split has something to offer everyone. With its perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, it’s no wonder that this coastal gem is quickly becoming a top destination choice for travelers.

More Info about Visiting Split, Croatia

• Learn all Split essentials with our Split Travel Guide .
• Plan your activities in Split with our detailed guide to things to do in Split .
• Looking for the unusual things to do in Split, Croatia ? Check our in-depth guide!
• If you plan to stay in Split, check a list of recommended accommodation in Split Croatia .
• Find out where to eat in Split with our post on best restaurants in Split .
• Detailed info on Split beaches you’ll find here.
• A list of Split bars and clubs .
• If you are staying in Split only for a day, here is our One Day in Split Itinerary . Staying for 3 days? No problem, we’ve written also on how to spend three days in Split, Croatia !
• Planing a day trip from Split? Here is our list of the best day trips from Split, Croatia !
• Arriving to Split by plane? Here is our Split airport guide, including tips on how to get to Split center from the Split Airport .
• Want to visit Hvar from Split? Check out our ultimate guide on visiting Hvar from Split !
• Planing your Croatia trip, but not sure where to go first? Our Split or Hvar? and Split or Dubrovnik ? posts will help you decide!
• Visiting Dubrovnik from Split? Find here all details on how to get from Split to Dubrovnik !
• Interested in other Split restaurants? Read our reviews on Villa Spiza , Uje Oil Bar , Buffet Fife , and Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar .

Do you have any questions or suggestions? Please leave them in the comments below!

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Destinations In Croatia / Split, Croatia / 20 Incredible Day Trips From Split, Croatia

Our Wanders

15 Stunning Day Trips From Split, Croatia

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, and with Roman ruins, ancient city walls, a well-preserved, picturesque old town, countless restaurants and a busy nightlife, it’s a destination in its own right. But it’s also a perfect base to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and islands. So even though one day is enough to see the cultural sights, Split still has its place on any Dalmatian itinerary, not only on the first timers’.

Do you need help planning your Croatia road trip?

• Get the Croatia 10 Days Itinerary eBook.
• Use the easy-to-follow itinerary.
• Go and enjoy your trip.

Buy it now.

Whether you’d venture out on land or water, with or without a car, you can choose from countless options that easily make you feel overwhelmed. Having visited Croatia on several longer trips, we know this area quite well, and in this post we collected the best day trips from Split. We included advice not only about organized tours, but also about how to visit these destinations individually.

Read this, too: Where to stay in Split?

Are you in a hurry? Check out the most popular Split tours here:

TOP 3 excursions from Split

So there’s an overwhelming number of both land tours and boat trips from Split, and picking the very best ones can’t be anything but highly subjective. But if you only have time for one or two day trips, this is the list for you to choose from, as these are the most popular Split day tours.

Hvar Island

How to get there? By public ferry or tour boat (usually organized catamaran cruises). There are two companies that transport passengers between Split and Hvar Town: Jadrolinija and Krilo . Check the ferry schedule here:

Hvar is one of the best Split day trips to take by boat according to many, and it’s a visit that combines sightseeing in a pretty ancient town and swimming in the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. The island of Hvar has a main town (Hvar Town) and several smaller, but even more enchanting little towns and countless secluded bays. It’s usually only Hvar Town that fits into a day trip.

Historic Hvar Town is quite photogenic, with medieval fortifications overlooking the sea, cobbled streets and squares, the beautiful Cathedral of St. Stephen or the Hvar Public Theatre. If you arrive by car, you can drive to some of the more remote, legendary beaches, like Malo Zaraće Beach, Dubovica Beach or Pokonji Dol.

It’s about an hour ferry ride from Split, and the journey itself is pretty scenic. If you choose a full-day catamaran cruise, you’ll stop for a swim or two in some of the breathtakingly beautiful bays on the way there and/or back. This tour includes swimming stops at one of the bays of the Pakleni Islands and off the shores of Brač Island, a short guided tour of Hvar Town, lunch, dessert, drinks and music entertainment. Many guests gave it an excellent rating, both for the amazing staff and the wonderful stops during the cruise.

Book a full-day catamaram cruise here.

How to get there? Boat tour. It’s one of those attractions that’s hard to visit on your own, but countless boat tours are organized, and most of them include other attractions, as well. This full-day “5 islands” day trip from Split is incredibly popular and has excellent ratings.

Found on the east coast of the island of Biševo, the Blue Cave is a flooded sea cave which is famous for its spectacular blue glow as light comes up through the water and illuminates the cave. Swimming is not allowed here, but tiny boats can enter the cave so that you can have a close look of this unique beauty.

This popular “5 islands” tour is a small-group (or even private) tour by speedboat, and you’ll have the chance to visit the Blue Cave, swim and snorkel in the Blue Lagoon of Budikovac Island, visit Hvar Town, and have a quick dip at Stiniva Cove.

Check availability and book here!

Krka National Park

How to get there? By car, bus ( from Split to Skradin ) or on a Krka waterfalls tour from Split .

Krka National Park is one of the two famous waterfall parks in Croatia, but it’s certainly the closest one to Split, being just an hour drive away. It’s a lush green park that offers easy and very pretty waterfall walks to seven travertine waterfalls on the Krka River. You also have the option for taking scenic boat rides and visiting historic sites.

If you visit Krka National Park on your own, we recommend starting as early as you can so that you can enjoy the waterfalls without the crowds. Read our detailed guide about Krka National Park here to plan your day and not to miss some cool lesser-known sights either.

Krka National Park off the beaten path

Please note that since January 2021, swimming in the Krka waterfalls is not allowed anymore . You might see pictures of people swimming there (and we swam there earlier, as well), but it was before it was banned.

If you find it more comfortable to book an organized tour to the Krka waterfalls, no worries, there are plenty of them from Split . But each one is a bit different – some don’t include tickets, some include a guided tour or an additional stop (typically Šibenik). Read the descriptions carefully so that you book what you really want.

Best day trips from Split by car

Renting a car is not the only option for these Split day trips, however, if you have a car and are looking for destinations to visit near Split, browse this list. I added other options (local buses, tours), too, if they exist.

Get our compact, easy-to-follow 10-Day Croatia itinerary and enjoy the trip of your lifetime.

How to get there? By car, local bus or the Bura Line Ferry . You can sign up for organized day tours or half-day tours from Split.

Trogir is a pretty coastal town and one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , filled with palaces, churches and the usual charming cobbled streets, and it’s surrounded by a fortified wall. It has a pretty waterfront walkway lined with palm trees. If you think it might be similar to the historical center of Split, you’re right, only Trogir is less busy.

The old city center of Trogir is actually on a small island and is accessible through a short bridge. It’s compact, and you don’t even need a map, just wander around, everything that’s worthy to see is there.

If you visit by car, finding parking will be the most challenging thing. Otherwise, it’s only half an hour drive from Split. But it’s quick by bus, too , if you’d save the pain of hunting for a parking spot.

If you’re looking for organized tours, they’ll likely include other attractions, as well. Like this half-day tour from Split to Trogir and the Blue Lagoon . Boat tours offer the advantage of marveling at Split and Trogir from the Adriatic Sea though. Actually, you can have that experience even on a DIY tour if you choose the Bura Line Ferry instead of a local bus.

How to get there? By car or bus . You can also sign up for organized day tours or half-day tours from Split .

Only an hour drive from both Split or Zadar, Šibenik is the oldest coastal city founded by Croatians. Its giant Renaissance cathedral, the St. James’s Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s the most impressive of all churches we’ve seen in Croatia. But Šibenik has a second UNESCO Site, as well: the Fortress of St. Nicholas. A bit further from the old town, this triangular-shaped stone fortress is only connected to the mainland by a narrow walkway. You can opt for a boat ride to reach it.

St. Michael’s and St. John’s Fortresses are on the hill and offer panoramic views over the city. The old town has adorable cobbled alleyways (with lots of stairs!), and the main street, King Tomislav Street, is lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques.

If you drive to Šibenik, you need to leave your car out of the old town, since that’s car-free. Paid parking is available near the harbor, right next to the old town. A bus ride from Split to Šibenik takes about 1.5 hours. If you prefer an organized tour, most of them are combined tours of visiting Krka National Park and sightseeing in Šibenik, like this one .

How to get there? By car or local bus . Organized tours are usually adventure-based – rafting tours , ziplining , canyoning.

Located at the mouth of the Cetina River and being home of pirates in the 13 th and 14 th centuries, Omiš is still an exciting town today. The coastal mountains are very high here, and together with the rushing river, it result in offering some of the best adventure activities in all Croatia – like zip lining above the Cetina Canyon, rafting or canyoning on the Cetina River, or conquering the bare rocky peaks of the Omiška Dinara mountains . For less adventurous visitors, Omiš has a nice old town to stroll through.

But Omiš is also the favorite of families, because it’s one of those few places on the Adriatic Coast where the beaches are sandy . Not, it doesn’t mean very little, smooth pebbles, but fine sand. Not the white Caribbean-like sand, because the sand in Croatia is darker, brownish-yellowish, but it’s sand.

Read our detailed guide to Omiš here!

Omiš is only 30 minutes from Split by car, and buses run frequently between Omiš and Split, especially during the summer. Bus #60 to Omiš departs from Bus Terminal Sukoisan . Organized tours from Split are usually adventure-based tours, see some of the best ones here:

How to get there? By car or local bus from Split to Makarska , or by catamaran in the summer season. Organized speedboat tours are also available.

Oh, Makarska and the Makarska Riviera! Where turquoise waters meet mighty mountains, lively, palm-fringed seafront promenades run on the coast and some of the most wonderful beaches of the Adriatic Sea awaits. Makarska and the surrounding towns of the Makarska Riviera are beloved beach holiday destinations. But you also find cobbled streets, a busy harbor, coastal trails and mountain vistas from Biokovo Mountain, the white giant that towers above the riviera.

Makarska is about an hour drive from Split, but you can choose the bus, a seasonal catamaran (in the summer) or an organized speedboat tour.

Read our detailed guide to the Makarska Riviera here!

How to get there? By car, local bus or on a private tour from Split .

Zadar is another adorable coastal town with ancient ruins and cobbled streets. The historical town is located on a small peninsula across the harbor. It’s not nearly as big as Dubrovnik or Split, but it swept us off our feet with a captivating atmosphere, quirky cafes, fabulous sunsets and views of the magnificent Velebit Mountains.

Also, it impresses with a mixture of old and new . The Roman Forum, St Donat’s Church or the Cathedral of St. Anastasia are the most significant historical sights, but you also find modern art installations: the Sea Organ (which emits different tones when the waves push air through its pipes and flutes) or the Sun Salutation (made of 300 glass plates that collect the sun’s energy all day and produces a colorful light show after sunset).

Zadar is 1.5 hours drive from Split, and you need to leave your car out of the old town. Organized tours from Split are mainly private tours – like this one -, Zadar itself is a great base for several day trips by boat or on land.

Read our detailed guide to Zadar here!

Paklenica National Park

How to get there? By car.

Looking for adventure in the coastal mountains? Paklenica National Park is home to the most astonishing karst river canyons in Croatia. Hike through them, or climb their giant rock walls – these are the two ways to get to know this national park.

Getting there is the most convenient by car. The park entrance is in the small town of Starigrad-Paklenica, and the two canyons (Mala and Velika Paklenica) have different entrances. We’ve written a detailed guide about how to plan your day in Paklenica National Park, which canyon to choose and how you can hike both canyons as a full day loop hike – read it here!

Crveno Jezero & Modro Jezero, the twin crater lakes of Imotski

How to get there? By car or by local bus .

Did you even know that Croatia has crater lakes? No one else really knows either. The lakes of Imotski are about an hour drive inland from Split, and not much longer by local bus either.

There are about 2 km between the two lakes, you can either drive or walk that distance. Crveno Jezero (or Red Lake) and Modro Jezero (or Blue Lake) are both by the road, and Crveno Jezero was by far the more impressive one. It’s a deep blue lake in a red crater, and you can walk to several viewpoints. Modro Jezero dried up, as it turned out this is normal by the end of every summer, when the lake basin functions as a soccer field for the local team. There’s a trail that takes you down to the bottom of Blue Lake.

Visiting both lakes doesn’t really require a full day , but you can go paddling or fishing to the Vrljika River, a clear, gentle river that flows through the plain below the town and offers solitude and lots of greenery. Or you can visit the Topana Fortress.

Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

How to get there? By car or by local bus . You can also join a Mostar day tour .

When you reach Split and Dubrovnik on the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia gets very narrow, and the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina is quite close. This results in one of the popular Split day trips being located in Bosnia: the town of Mostar. We are a bit hesitant to recommend it as a day trip, but we do, because if this is your only chance to see a tiny bit of Bosnia, grab it!

But consider your options carefully. A trip to Mostar means about 2.5 hours of driving (or ~4 hours by bus) AND crossing a border. This border can get extremely congested, especially in the summer, and this could add several hours(!) to your journey. Also, if you rent a car, crossing a border (which is not within the EU) can complicate things. The least you should do is consult with the rental company well in advance.

Hence your most convenient option to visit Mostar might be joining a tour . There are several options, many including a visit to other sights nearby, like Kravica waterfalls or Medjugorje. Of course, tour companies have no control over the waiting time at the border, but they take care of everything else for you. Here’s a few choices:

Ideally, you’d have time for another week long road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina after your Croatia vacation, but let’s be real, this is often not the case. The day trip to Mostar from Split gives you a chance to get an insight into a very different culture as Bosnia is a Muslim country.

Mostar has an Ottoman-built Old Town with the Old Bazaar, many mosques and minarets . Its iconic sight is the Stari Most bridge over the Neretva River that connects two medieval towers. (If you’ve ever seen a picture of Mostar, it was likely a photo of that bridge.) Jumping into the Neretva River from the bridge is a local tradition of sorts – and a way to earn part of their living for the locals.

Best boat trips from Split

Only a short boat ride away from Split you find an archipelago of beautiful islands. Hvar and the Blue Cave are the most popular choices, but there’s more.

You can also take part in a multi-day sailing trip, because what could be a better way to explore a country connected so strongly to the sea? The Sail Croata Elegance cruises offer various 7-day sailing cruises and a small group experience.

But let’s see some lovely destination ideas:

How to get there? By public ferry or tour boat.

Brač Island is famous for its pristine, secluded bays and Zlatni rat, the Golden Horn Beach. This beach is among the most unique ones in Croatia, it’s a sand spit surrounded by fabulous turquoise water and shaped by the currents. It can be accessed from the town of Bol, and it’s a ~2 km walk on a seafront walkway. (Or you can access it by boat, too.)

Brač is accessible by public ferry, but it’s a great island to explore by tour boat as they’ll drop you off for swimming in random, beautiful bays off the shore of Brač which are barely accessible by any other means. Island tours from Split usually combine several islands, like this Brač and Šolta Island cruise with swimming , or this tour that includes Hvar and the Pakleni Islands , too.

You can find private full-day tours to Zlatni rat, but visiting on your own is also possible in the summer. The Krilo catamaran has a route between Bol and Split during summer, and the times are suitable for a full day trip to Zlatni Rat from Split. Jadrolinija car ferries run between Split and Brač Island all year, but they go to the town of Supetar. You can then take a local bus to Bol, hire a local driver or take your car by the ferry. Taking your car is quite an expensive option for a day trip, but convenient if you visit for several days.

Blue Lagoon, Drvenik Veli Island

How to get there? By ferry from Trogir or by tour boat.

Blue Lagoon is a turquoise, shallow lagoon on the southeastern coast of the Drvenik Veli Island, and it’s a popular destination by boat trips, because it’s so close to the shore. The crystal clear, calm water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and you find several white sand beaches along the shoreline.

Drvenik Veli Island has a population of 150 residents. It’s reachable by public ferry, though not from Split, rather nearby Trogir. Plenty of organized island tours include the Blue Lagoon, and you can even rent a boat to discover the hidden beaches along the shoreline:

Šolta Island

Šolta Island is opposite the Split harbor, and it’s less developed than other islands in the region, making it a great choice for those looking for a place off the beaten path. You find hiking trails along the coast and across the island, charming, old villages, like Maslinica, and wonderful beaches.

The Jadrolinija ferry has a route from Split to the town of Rogac on Šolta. But from there you need some kind of vehicle to reach the best destinations within the island. Biking is quite popular. Of course, there are several companies that offer combined day trips to Šolta Island and the Blue Lagoon, here’s the most popular one .

Further out in the Adriatic Sea lies Vis, the farthest inhabited island off the Croatian mainland. Wild and relatively undeveloped, Vis Island has an interesting military history. It was the headquarters of the Yugoslav Partisan movement during the Second World War, then it was used as a naval base for the Yugoslav People’s Army (until 1989).

Some of the coolest things to do on Vis are swimming in Stiniva Bay , one of the most beautiful bays in the Adriatic Sea, joining military tours that show you the fascinating military history of the island (along with miles of tunnels), strolling the streets of Vis Town and the Old Town of Kut or enjoying the views from Fort George .

Jadrolinija has ferry service between Split and Vis year-round, and multi-island Split boat trips also include Stiniva Bay or other venues on Vis – like the “5 islands” day trip I already mentioned.

Do you find planning your trip for Croatia a bit overwhelming?

What if I told you that someone has ALL the planning done: get our compact, easy 10-Day Croatia Itinerary! Read it, then go and enjoy.

Where NOT to go on a day trip from Split

Last but not least, let’s see those typical day tours from Split that are not at all suitable to be day tours. Of course, you do what you want, but we advise against these trips with the best intention, and I’ll tell you why.

Plitvice Lakes tour from Split

The 16 breathtaking lakes cascading from one to the next via a series of waterfalls makes this park one of the most famous places in Croatia. You’ll find organized day tours to the Plitvice Lakes from Split, and it’s possible to drive there and back one day. However, you’ll spend much less time at those wonderful lakes than in the car or tour bus.

Reaching Plitvice Lakes National Park from Split is 3.5 hours drive one-way – and I don’t even take the congested roads into account in the summer. However, here’s another fact to consider: this park is insanely popular and can get so crowded during the summer that it gets unenjoyable. The best time to visit is the early and late hours of the day, and surely, those are the time slots you’d miss on a Split day trip.

So in my opinion, while visiting Plitvice Lakes from Split on a day trip is possible, it’s a long, tiring day with little actual enjoyment. I’d rather advise you to spend a night near the lakes so that you have a full day in the national park, or visit it while you drive from Zagreb to the coast.

Read this, too: Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park – How To Get The Best Out Of 1 Day?

Dubrovnik day tour from Split

Again, Dubrovnik is a worthwhile destination, but not as a day trip from Split. The reasons are similar to the Plitvice day trip: travel time is long (~3 hours drive one-way) and the most enjoyable parts of the day in Dubrovnik Old Town are the early and late hours – when daytrippers and cruise ship passengers are gone.

Read this, too: Dubrovnik, You’re Easy To Fall In Love With

4 tips for saving money on Split day trips

DIY excursions instead of guided tours. Though some group tours are quite affordable, public ferry or local bus tickets are even cheaper. The majority of day trip destinations in this post are easily reachable from Split by public transit.

Check bus tickets on Busbud and Flixbus . You find two main bus stations in Split: the Main Bus Station (just across the port) and Bus Terminal Sukoisan (15 minutes walk from Diocletian’s Palace). Long-haul and regional buses usually depart from the Main Bus Station, like buses to Krka National Park (Skradin), Sinj or Makarska. Local buses depart from the Sukoisan Terminal.

Take the public ferry. All ferries dock at the Split Port, located just a 10-minute walk from the Split Old Town. There are two main ferry companies – Jadrolinija and Krilo -, and their schedules are seasonal. Jadrolinija is a government-backed company, and it operates year-round and has a more extensive network of ferries. Krilo is a catamaran service, faster but also more expensive. The Krilo schedule is more seasonal and not suitable for cars.

Don’t squeeze in too much. Leave some time to enjoy the beaches, aimlessly stroll the streets or explore the parks of Split.

Disclosure: Please note that we paid for the trip ourselves, but affiliate links are used in this post, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

By Beata Urmos

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of Our Wanders, an adventurous family travel blog. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, seeking outdoor adventures, fairy tale castles and unique experiences. She's passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way, and she's an expert in planning trips of any length. She’d love to help you plan your own amazing trip, too.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Day Trips from Split

15 Best Day Trips from Split

Found along the shores of the beautiful Dalmatian coastline of Croatia, Split is one of the most spectacular destinations to visit in the country.

Split is steeped in history, with Roman ruins and palaces to discover within the ancient walls.

This important city has for centuries been a crossroads between Western Europe and the Balkans, as it overlooks the warm, sunny climes of the Adriatic Sea.

Today though, the real business of Split is tourism; many visitors arrive looking for a laid-back lifestyle and to explore the surrounding islands and landscapes.

Split, as well as being an encompassing city destination in its own right, is also an excellent location to use as a launching pad to the rest of the Dalmatian coast – to Zadar in the north and Dubrovnik in the south, and inland to neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The epic Croatian national parks of Krka and Plitvice are all within striking distance.

Here are the best day trips from Split :

1. Hvar Island

Split is found in a sheltered bay overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

Out on the water, just a short boat ride away from the city can be found an archipelago of beautiful islands, each with their own unique landscapes, villages, and towns to explore.

Hvar is one of the most well-known and visited of the islands – and easily one of the most spectacular.

Hvar Town is surrounded by medieval fortifications that look out over the bay, while the stone squares and cobbled streets are simply charming to wander around.

Much of the island outside of the main settlements is wild and rugged, with few developments and very little in the way of amenities to be found along the long coastline.

Recommended tour : Blue Cave and Hvar Full-Day Tour from Split

2. Brac Island

Brac is the largest island and faces back to Split from the Adriatic Sea.

It’s one of the closest too and is easily reached by ferry or tour boat, for either a full day trip or as part of an island-hopping excursion.

Brac has a multitude of pristine bays and beaches to swim and bathe at, with clear, calm waters in many offering excellent conditions for snorkeling.

Inland, there are great hiking opportunities amongst the many hills that rise above the surrounding ocean, offering sweeping vistas from their summits across Brac and the rest of the islands near Split.

Suggested tour : From Split: Catamaran Cruise to Brač Island

3. The Blue Lagoon

The outrageously aesthetic Blue Lagoon is waiting to be explored on the island of Drvenik Veliki, just off the coast of Split.

The island itself is small, with little of remark, but the lagoon is stunning and makes for a worthy day trip in itself.

The vistas are absolutely unreal – the turquoise water of the shallow lagoon contrasts with the darker waters of the surrounding Adriatic Sea.

It’s the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling, as there is much marine life living in this sheltered area.

The beaches along the island are beautiful too, with lovely white sand to sink your toes into.

Top rated tour : Blue Lagoon and 3 Islands Tour from Trogir or Split

4. Solta Island

Although not the largest island in the area, Solta is located directly opposite the harbor from Split.

From the city, when you gaze out across the sea, it will be the island of Solta that you see first.

Solta is, by all means, beautiful – as are the rest of these islands – and it’s well known for the many charming, old villages that are found in the hills and along the coast.

The most developed and most visited of these villages is Maslinica, which is where most tourists will first arrive and spend the majority of their time.

There are great restaurants and even a few bars, and of course, if you’d rather find somewhere quieter, just head on down the coast.

Available tour : Half-Day Sailing Trip to Solta Bay from Split

5. Vis Island

Vis is further out in the Adriatic Sea than most of the other islands that are popular for day trips from Split.

It’s definitely worth the extra travel time needed to get here though, as it’s certainly one of the more rugged and wild islands.

Vis is relatively undeveloped, especially in comparison to tourist destinations on the mainland and even on nearby Hvar Island, but that’s part of the attraction.

This is the island for those looking to get further off the beaten track or to perhaps find a bit of solitude yet still be surrounded by untouched natural beauty.

Included in : Hvar 5 Islands and Blue Cave Tour from Trogir and Split

6. Krka National Park

Krka may be almost impossible to pronounce correctly for non-Croatians, but it is the site of one of the country’s most incredible waterfalls.

Krka National Park is located just an hour or so away from Split, and the area protects much of the long Krka River and the many spots of natural beauty along the banks and in the surrounding forest.

The most visited and perhaps most attractive sight within Krka National Park is the Skradinski Buk waterfalls – a series of multiple waterfalls plunging from different heights across a wide section of the river.

It’s the perfect place for swimming, especially during the hot Croatian summers.

Suggested tour : Krka National Park: Full-Day Trip from Split or Trogir

Found an hour north along the coast from Sibenik and not far from Krka National Park, Sibenik looks out gloriously across the Adriatic, hidden behind the medieval stone walls of its many fortifications.

The small, walled city is best known for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed St Paul’s Cathedral – a beautiful architectural endeavor that has survived centuries of conflict in this important city.

Sibenik is much like many other cities along the coast here, but unlike Split and Dubrovnik, it has yet to be fully discovered by mass tourism, making for a perfect day trip for those looking for a more offbeat destination to explore.

Zadar is a two-hour drive north of Split, but it’s worth making the trip to be able to explore Croatia’s most cultural city.

Zadar has a long history and ancient roots and there are many historic sights to see here.

These days though, on a coastline packed with old buildings and museums, Zadar is attracting crowds because of its new developments and modern attractions.

Visit the Monument to the Sun, a monument dedicated, literally, to the sun, where the sunsets are absolutely incredible.

There’s also the inane sea organ, a wonderful, giant musical instrument that sits on the banks of the sea and uses the waves to play music.

It has to be seen to be believed really.

9. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes are possibly Croatia’s most famous natural attraction.

This national park is a bit of a trek from Split, but there are plenty of tour companies running long day trips here.

The park gets extremely busy but that’s because it is beyond beautiful.

There are multi-layered waterfalls cascading over rocks into the many lakes below.

It’s a must see when in Croatia, so don’t miss out on Plitvice Lakes.

Suggested tour : Plitvice Lakes Day Tour from Split or Trogir

10. The Roman Ruins of Salona

Much closer to Split are the Roman Ruins of Salona.

Discovered just outside the city, the ruins can even be reached by bicycle and make for an interesting, historical day trip.

Before modern Split existed, this was the location of the main city in the area, until it was destroyed by ‘barbarians’ as the Roman Empire fell apart.

The survivors rebuilt their city around Diocletian’s Palace on the coast, which now forms the center of Split that you see today.

Available tour : Historical Tour of Salona, Klis and Trogir from Split

Trogir is quite literally up the road from Split, being just 30-kilometers along the coast.

It’s equally as beautiful, but somehow it’s just never as busy.

The historic center is found on its own, walled island, separated from the rest of the mainland and yet connected by bridges.

It’s a medieval treat and a lovely getaway from the much larger and more chaotic Split.

12. Makarska

South of Split, Makarska is in beautiful surroundings along the Adriatic Sea.

With the water ahead of it and the towering mountains of Biokovo Nature Park behind it, Makarska has something to offer everyone.

Some visit for the famed Makarska Riviera life and the bars and restaurants found in the area, while others come here to hike, to climb mountains or to pursue adventure sports in the dramatic landscapes of the interior.

The old town of Omis is just a short journey south along the coast.

Although it’s found amongst spectacular coastal scenery, with lovely secluded beaches and cliffs to explore, Omis is best known for its adventure and adrenaline activities.

It’s a great place to visit to zipline through trees or raft or kayak along the white waters of the Cetina River.

Mostar is not a Croatian city, but is found across the nearby border in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It’s around a two-hour drive, but is a trip that needs to be made to see this beautiful but scarred Bosnian city firsthand.

Mostar is a city of history, with a beautiful setting on the banks of a river and an old Ottoman-style bridge that connects the two sides together over tall cliffs.

During the Yugoslav wars in the 1990’s, Mostar was the scene of bitter fighting that destroyed much of the city, including the bridge.

A lot has been rebuilt since, including the bridge, and tourism here is slowly recovering, but there are still a lot of scars to be seen.

Suggested tour : Mostar and Medjugorje Day tour from Split or Trogir

15. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is quite a drive to the south of Split, but this is one of Croatia’s most famous cities.

The drive along the coast is incredibly scenic, following the dramatic coastline all the way to the ancient, walled city.

It’s an amazing place to walk on foot, through hidden alleyways, and along the lengthy fortifications.

It’s also where a lot of Game of Thrones scenes have been filmed, and fans will find themselves caught up in the familiarity of these ancient streets.

15 Best Day Trips from Split:

• Hvar Island
• Brac Island
• The Blue Lagoon
• Solta Island
• Krka National Park
• Plitvice Lakes National Park
• The Roman Ruins of Salona

• Anguilla Tourism
• Anguilla Hotels
• Anguilla Bed and Breakfast
• Anguilla Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Anguilla
• Anguilla Restaurants
• Things to Do in Anguilla
• Anguilla Travel Forum
• Anguilla Photos
• Anguilla Map
• All Anguilla Hotels
• Anguilla Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Anguilla
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Split stay to Anguilla & St. Martin w day trip to St. Barths - Anguilla Forum

• Caribbean    
• Anguilla    

Split stay to Anguilla & St. Martin w day trip to St. Barths

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Caribbean forums
• Anguilla forum

My plan is to stay the first 3 nights in Anguilla at Malliouhana and then take the ferry to St. Martin and stay at an Airbnb for the remaining 3 nights of our trip. We will only have 2 full days left staying in St. Martin. On our first full day in St. Martin I would like to take the ferry to St. Barth’s for a day trip - sight see, shop, eat lunch and then head back to St. Martin for dinner.

Questions I have:

Is this doable? Or too much? (We don’t like to relax on vacation, we like to explore)

How long are the ferry rides both ways and cost?

Should we just use taxis instead of renting a car since we will be moving from island to island?

How are the taxi services in St. Barth’s & St. Martin? I’ve heard good things about transportation in Anguilla.

Is an Airbnb a safe choice? It is located on Cay Hill (Dutch side). Is this a safe area?

Thank you in advance!!!

10 replies to this topic

We are anxious flyers 🥲

After your stay at the Malliouhana (great choice), you can take the public ferry from Anguilla to Marigot and stay somewhere on the French side eg Grand Case. Beautiful beach there and you can find lots of AirBnBs along the beach, or a small hotel, you can walk to restaurants. It is also close to Grand Case airport where you can fly to St Barths. I prefer the French side, it is a bit rougher around the edges but its authentic, it is just like being on mainland France. The Dutch side is more touristy with huge hotels, casinos etc.

https://www.bleuemeraude.com/language/en/home-bleu-emeraude-luxury-beachfront-hotel-saint-martin/

https://www.stbarthcommuter.com/en/scheduled-flights.php

Not all hotels are very expensive on St Barths, we stayed at Le Village which is up a hill and very short distance to St Jean beach. It was a delightful place to stay.

https://levillagestbarth.com/

Taxis are fine to get around St Martin/St Maarten.

Hope that's given you some ideas.

Fru has provided some very good advice.

I did see that you say you do not like to relax on vacation and prefer exploring, but even for you, the trip you describe is very ambitious for a week. Some random thoughts:

On the map all 3 of your island locations are very close to each other, but the logistics of travel between them is a bit bureaucratic and each will involve pass port control, departure fees, lines, etc. You can easily spend a couple of hours just dealing with the border people each time you change islands.

Anguilla and St. Bart’s are really beach and food destinations. While there are interesting things to see on each (and SB offers amazing high-end shopping), people go there to relax on the world class beaches.

I wonder if you may be happier going to an island that is less about the beaches and more tourist/sight-seeing/attractions focused?

Here's the thing. You have 2 choices:

1. You can be so sick by the time you take the Vomit Comet to St Barts that you won't be able to see straight and will have lost your joy of even seeing the island for the afternoon.

I am now in my '90's and....I'm Still Here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just love your spirit Pepper......all the best!

And for Renee Louisiana.....way too much energy to put forth for what, at least for us would be a burn-out.

I agree with the others that your trip is a lot of moving around. I’m a little perplexed as to your statement that you can’t afford to stay on SBH. If you are staying at Mali, the cost of a high end hotel on SBH isn’t different. There are also lower cost options including Le Village which was already mentioned. Les Ilets would be a good beach front option. Frankly I would skip the stay on SXM if you wanted to split your way too short honeymoon and spend those three days on SBH as you will already be incurring the expense of getting there. If you want to experience France in the Caribbean, SBH is better than SXM. Just my two centimes.

• Split stay to Anguilla & St. Martin w day trip to St. Barths yesterday
• Anniversary dinner help yesterday
• Charter to Prickly pear Jun 01, 2024
• Beer Selection May 31, 2024
• Looking for more budget accomodation near quiet beach May 31, 2024
• Tipsy Turtle May 30, 2024
• Trip report - first timer's experience May 30, 2024
• Hughes Apartment - West End May 28, 2024
• MIA connection report (back to US) May 28, 2024
• Anguilla vs Aruba May 28, 2024
• Arriving Saturday May 27, 2024
• Weather/Sea Conditions May 26, 2024
• Rambling and recalling thoughts from a budget traveler May 25, 2024
• ten years ago was my last visit . May 25, 2024
• Ferry from St. Maarten 12 replies
• Any all inclusive resorts in anguilla?? 5 replies
• Cap Juluca having problems? 44 replies
• Viceroy Anguilla vs. All inclusive? 7 replies
• How do you say it? 9 replies
• Caribbean vs. Hawaii 14 replies
• Antigua vs Anguilla Honeymoon 12 replies
• heard lof luxury link??? 10 replies
• Trying to decide: Cap Juluca or Viceroy - Help Please 30 replies
• Moonsplash 2012, general questions 20 replies

Anguilla Hotels and Places to Stay

• Arriving and Departing
• Beach Loungers
• Cash - how much to have on hand.
• Fishing in Anguilla
• Parking at various beaches
• Snorkel Help
• Trip Advisor All AXA reviews
• Trip report with kids
• Turtles Nest Rooms
• Where to Stay

4 tips to split costs on a group vacation

Accommodate everyone's budgets and vacation expectations

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Traveling with a group, whether friends or family, can be a lot of fun. Figuring out how to fairly split the costs, on the other hand, can be a tricky business.

There are lodging, meals, car rentals and activity costs to worry about, not to mention the reality that everyone's budgets — and expectations for their vacation — can differ. There is also the risk that someone can feel like another person isn't paying their fair share, or that you are skipping out on experiences you would have liked to enjoy because someone else can't afford it.

Here are some tips to keep in mind to make sure you are able to focus on enjoying each others' company, rather than fretting about the financials.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

1. Make sure everyone is on the same page before you book

A good way to get out ahead of potential sore spots is to figure out how much everyone is comfortable spending. "A lot of the challenges that people face when committing to travel or going places with their friends can be fixed with the general idea of being comfortable talking about money," Sarah Foster, an analyst and economy reporter at Bankrate, said to The Points Guy .

If you are spearheading the planning, "give the group an estimate of what flights, accommodations, transportation, food and activities might cost," said The Points Guy. If planning is more of a joint effort, work together to figure out the numbers for each of those major expenses, discussing what everyone might feel is reasonable.

That way, people can know early whether or not the trip is looking within range for their budget instead of getting sticker shock after they're already committed.

2. Figure out in advance how you're going to split costs

It is also helpful to think ahead of time about how you'll divide costs among the group. There are a few different ways to do it, each with their own pros and cons. 

Perhaps "the simplest method is to split all expenses evenly among the group members," said CNBC Select , though this "may not work well if members' personal budgets or activity preferences are wildly different from each other."

Another way is to split some expenses and for others, "require a 'pay as you go' method where each person shoulders the individual cost of their ticket, meal, etc.," said CNBC Select. Or you might do a "a 'round robin' approach where each person takes turns covering the cost of one group activity during the trip."

You could also agree to split costs by category, so one person picks up food, while another foots the cost of plane tickets. This "requires more planning and coordination but can potentially reduce the overall cost of the trip," said CNBC Select, as you can assign "each category of expenses to the respective credit card that offers the most points for that."

3. Don't feel like you have to do everything together

While the point of a group vacation is, well, to spend time together, that does not mean you can't occasionally do your own thing — especially if you are working under different budgetary constraints and have different vacation priorities. Otherwise, said The Points Guy, "these differences in which vacation activities are valuable to you versus your travel companions can lead to disagreements and hurt feelings when planning the day's activities."

To sidestep this issue, you might "agree to split up at times according to interest and budget," said The Points Guy, or if someone is really stuck on doing something together, you might see if they are "willing to subsidize a pricier meal or activity the group would love to do so the more budget-conscious travelers don't have to worry about the cost."

4. Keep lines of communication open during the trip

Even if you think you have covered everything in advance, additional money matters are bound to come up during the trip. The key here, once again, is clear communication.

If you ever start to feel "like you're paying more than your fair share," rather than stewing on it, "call a group meeting as soon as possible," said GOBankingRates . "It is better to do this while you are all still together," said Jodi RR Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, to GOBankingRates. "Without pointing fingers, explain the additional costs and discuss how to best handle the payment."

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Becca Stanek has worked as an editor and writer in the personal finance space since 2017. She previously served as a deputy editor and later a managing editor overseeing investing and savings content at LendingTree and as an editor at the financial startup SmartAsset, where she focused on retirement- and financial-adviser-related content. Before that, Becca was a staff writer at The Week, primarily contributing to Speed Reads. 

In The Spotlight Elderly aristocrat Heinrich XIII Prince Reuss makes an incongruous terrorist, but prosecutors will argue Reichsbürger coup plan was deadly serious

By The Week UK Published 2 June 24

The Explainer The UK asylum system is widely acknowledged to be broken. It's also an electoral 'wedge issue' between the Tories and Labour

The Week's daily crossword

By The Week Staff Published 2 June 24

The Explainer Avoid accruing interest and late fees

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 31 May 24

The Explainer This economic indicator reflects how consumers feel about their finances and predicts whether they plan to spend money

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 29 May 24

The Explainer Sometimes life gets in the way of your travel plans

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 27 May 24

The Explainer Federal student loan interest rates are set to reach record heights for the 2024-25 school year

The Explainer The cost of flights, lodging, meals and activities can really add up

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 22 May 24

The Explainer When you spave, you spend more money under the auspices of saving

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 20 May 24

The Explainer As a result of rising home values, Americans are increasingly facing this tax when they sell their homes

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 17 May 24

The Explainer Not everything you see online is right, or right for you

By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published 15 May 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More

Continue in Browser

Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts.

Please enter a valid zipcode.

Florida organization sending veterans to Normandy one final time

TAMPA, Fla. — For the last time, the Florida Elks Association is sending World War II veterans to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 6.

The organization says this is the last year because of the declining number of World War II veterans and their rising ages.

What You Need To Know

Several world war ii will make a final trip to normandy for the 80th anniversary of d-day  the florida elks association says the decision to end the trips is due to the declining number of world war ii veterans and their rising ages  the plane is taking off monday with four veterans who will be overseas for eight days.

One of the veterans making the trip is 98-year-old Hector Hita.

"The war is not easy," he said. "You leave your family behind, your wife, your mother, and then you go to the front line and you don't know if you're going to come back home."

Hector served in the Army as a paratrooper.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Hector said he joined the Army while visiting the Bronx at 17 years old.

He was at the movies when he saw a video of troops fighting overseas.

"I said to myself, if those kids can do it, I can do it," he said. "So when I got out of from the movies I think I spent about half an hour by the door and I said do I finish school or join the army? Well, I'm going to join the army."

The memories Hector has from the war are vast, and while Hector is looking forward to seeing his friends left behind overseas, he wants people to remember the sacrifices of all those who served.

The plane is taking off Monday with four veterans who will be overseas for eight days.

My family had to stay at 3 different resorts during our 8-day trip to Disney World, and it wasn't worth all the effort

• My family stayed at Pop Century, Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Wilderness Lodge at Disney World.
• We did the "triple stay" because of sparse hotel availability and last-minute changes to our trip.
• We had fun and Disney makes moving between resorts easy, but I wouldn't plan my trip this way again.

Disney World is famously busy around the holidays and spring break , which can make it difficult to find a hotel room on the property. 

When my family of four went to Disney World for the holidays one year, everything was so booked we had to stay in three different resorts.

We spent one night in a room at Pop Century (a value resort), three nights in a one-bedroom villa at Animal Kingdom Lodge (a deluxe resort), and four nights in a one-bedroom villa at Wilderness Lodge (a deluxe resort). We've done split stays at Disney World in the past, but this was the first time we stayed at three different hotels on a single visit.

We initially planned a four-day stay at Wilderness Lodge and ended up adding on three days at Animal Kingdom Lodge because of changing flight schedules. We then added the first night at Pop Century because we ended up having to fly in a day early. 

On our first night, we stayed in a simple room at Pop Century

Our standard room with one queen bed and one Murphy bed at Pop Century was $305 for one night, which isn't exactly cheap, especially for a value resort. At less busy times of the year, rooms are typically in the $200 dollar range or lower.

But booking the extra night at the hotel ended up saving us more than changing our airfare would have cost. 

Pop Century wasn't my favorite resort, but it definitely has its pros

It's unfair to compare a value resort like Pop Century to villas at deluxe resorts, but Pop Century was my least favorite of the three.

That doesn't mean I didn't like staying there though. The room was clean with generic Disney theming and the layout worked for us. My kids also really enjoyed the bold, splashy theming across the resort.

It's conveniently located on the Skyliner route (Disney's free gondola-style transportation) and has a pool that's great for relaxing after a long day at the parks.

If you're watching your budget and don't need a lot of amenities, Pop Century is a fun choice.

I liked staying in both of the deluxe villas

This wasn't my first time staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge or Wilderness Lodge, and I'd happily stay in either again. The one-bedroom villas at deluxe resorts cost about $900 a night on average. 

I liked the villa at Animal Kingdom Lodge better than Wilderness Lodge because we had two full bathrooms. It was great that I didn't have to share with my 12- and 13-year-old sons .

The lobby at Animal Kingdom Lodge is beautiful, and I love being able to see the roaming animals in the savanna outside. But I actually liked the cozy, mountain-lodge vibes of Wilderness Lodge better. 

Moving from one resort to another at Disney World was pretty seamless

It's pretty easy to move between resorts at Disney World. We still had to adhere to regular check-in and check-out times, but Disney was able to move our luggage since we didn't have a car.

We just took our belongings down to bell services and filled out some bag tags to let them know where we wanted them to end up. We received a claim check and checked in with the bell services at the next resort to set up the delivery. 

In both swaps, our bags were available at our new location by late afternoon/early evening. We had the option of going down to retrieve them or having them delivered to our room. We chose the latter and made sure to tip. 

It was also helpful to have a day bag to carry the things we'd need between resort changes. When it was time to move, we took the free resort bus to Disney Springs and caught another bus to our new resort.

Even though the moves weren't difficult, I didn't like repacking our stuff in the middle of a trip. We love the homelike atmosphere of the one-bedroom villas at Disney World and typically like to settle in and unpack, especially on longer stays.

Having to pack up and move hotel rooms twice in one visit was an annoyance, albeit a minor one.

We also ended up having to spend more on food than usual

Having access to a kitchen and being able to order groceries is one of the easiest ways we save money at Disney World. We typically eat two meals a day in our villa and one meal out.

The logistics of having groceries delivered and making plans to use all the perishables when we were on the move seemed daunting, so we ate all of our meals in restaurants and spent more than we usually do.

In the past, we've had bell services transport nonperishable food items from resort to resort. I've never asked them to transport perishable food, but I ultimately wouldn't trust someone else to make sure my milk was kept refrigerated.

Even if it didn't ruin our vacation, I wouldn't want to go through the stress of moving around so much again

Moving between three resorts went very smoothly for us, but I wouldn't plan a trip this way again.

Although experiencing the themes of multiple resorts on a single trip was fun and a great way to see more of the property, I wasn't a fan of packing all our stuff up multiple times.

If we get caught in a similar situation and have to split any future stays, I'd definitely prefer to only have to go between two resorts. 

This story was originally published in May 2023 and most recently update on May 16, 2024.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

The hiking, camping, day trips and more that will make your SoCal summer one to remember

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Good morning. It’s Saturday, June 1 . I am Jaclyn Cosgrove, an outdoors journalist at The Times. Here’s what you need to know to start your day.

• Hiking and camping season are here. Make the best of it with these tips.
• The contrasting days of a former and current president: Trump conviction and Biden’s attempt to tame the war in Gaza .
• How bad will a California COVID wave get if FLiRT subvariants continue to rise ?
• And here’s today’s e-newspaper

You're reading the Essential California newsletter

Our reporters guide you through our biggest news, features and recommendations every morning

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

“Adventure is out there!”

In just two miles, my hike had climbed almost 1,700 feet in elevation. As I went up the Vital Link Trail in Burbank , I thought, “I will never do this again.”

But then, a lounge chair built to honor Willie Mann greeted me at the top. I sat down, put my hand to my heart in gratitude to Willie’s friends and family and took in the panoramic views of L.A. County.

For the past few months, a group of Times writers and contributors have worked to launch and improve our guides that will help you make the most of this adventurous season.

I’d like to share with you my advice for how you can easily escape Los Angeles and have a truly great summer. The research is already done for you.

Our updated hiking guide includes hikes for all skill levels, like …

• The shady (and relatively flat) 2.4-mile Elysian Park West Loop Trail that Times staff writer Deborah Vankin wrote “may be the ultimate urban trail in L.A. — intimately connected to the surrounding city while also steeped in tranquil wildlife.”
• The moderate Bridge to Nowhere hike , where you can gaze upon, indeed, a bridge to nowhere. The trail could leave you with “a renewed recognition of the puniness of mankind and the might of the San Gabriels,” Times staff writer Christopher Reynolds wrote.

If you want to stay longer in the woods, I have good news for you: there are many camping and backpacking opportunities near L.A.

I wrote a guide for how to snag a campsite at one of the many first-come, first-serve campgrounds in L.A. If you want something easy, check out one of the beginner-level campgrounds, like Chilao Campground , a high-desert-with-forest-vibes spot in Angeles National Forest.

Or, try your hand at bikepacking. I recommend taking the West Fork National Scenic Bikeway , a stunningly green, mostly paved path north of Azusa, about six miles to the Glenn Camp Campground . I spotted a deer , several birdies and a few squirrels, including one who ran alongside my bike before springing off into a tree.

When you visit these trails or campgrounds, please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace , a simple framework to help us remember to leave only footprints and take only memories (and photos). Arguably its most well-known principle is to not leave behind any trash (hot take: including orange peels ).

Our 101 best West Coast experiences guide is an embarrassment of riches.

Carry that mindfulness with you as you explore farther north, using our 101 best West Coast experiences guide to everything awesome from Baja to British Columbia. It is also available in a zine , which would make a great gift (hint, hint, Mom).

Spend the night in the East Brother Light Station , a lighthouse on an island in the San Francisco Bay. Check out Fauna , a restaurant led by chef David Castro Hussong, in Baja’s Guadalupe Valley, where Christopher got one of the best meals he had last year.

The guide also highlights free activities, including the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery , where you might just spot elephant seals making love (probably loudly?). You didn’t have that on your bingo card, did you?

For shorter, closer-to-home experiences, check out Christopher’s guide on the best ways to kick off your summer in L.A.

Lastly, for those of you who plan to stay close to home, you can forage in your own neighborhood. For real!

My colleague Jeanette Marantos recently considered one of the most L.A. ethical quandaries: Should you pick fruit from your neighbor’s tree? If so, when? Half of the 855 readers who replied said it’s OK when the branches are full of fruit and hanging over a public street or sidewalk. But is it legal? You’ll have to read Jeanette’s piece to find out .

Sometimes when I’m planning my next hike or camping trip, I hear Ellie from the Pixar film “Up” shouting, “Adventure is out there!” Or maybe that’s just Little Jaclyn, my inner child, ready to party. Either way, I will see you on the trails.

The week’s biggest stories

Trump conviction:

• Trump rages, Biden struggles to tame the war in Gaza : The contrasting days of a former and current president.
• Trump plans to raise money in California in the aftermath of felony convictions.
• ‘Stormy’ filmmakers explain how Daniels helped convict Trump : ‘Let’s give the woman her due.’
• Most California Republicans in competitive congressional races are silent on Trump’s conviction.
• Column: 3 things about the Trump conviction that should be getting more attention .
• Column: The jury has spoken. What happens next will be a great test of American democracy .
• Newsletter: How’s Trump’s conviction will — and won’t — impact his 2024 chances .
• Big expansion of UC strike over pro-Palestinian protests: Irvine, San Diego, Santa Barbara next.
• Police arrest protesters on UC Santa Cruz campus after ordering them to leave encampment.
• UC strike also rears up as pro-Palestinian protests. That’s why the endgame is so tricky .
• Kaffiyehs and pickets: UCLA, UC Davis workers strike over treatment at pro-Palestinian protests .

Policing and incarceration:

• For some incarcerated women, getting ahold of menstrual products is a nightmare.
• Off-duty LAPD officer shoots, kills motorist after dispute after fender bender.
• Schoolchildren sickened by cloud of tear gas in police training mishap .

Mexico election:

• Millions of Mexicans will vote tomorrow, likely to elect the country’s first woman president .
• She’s likely to be Mexico’s next president . Can she save the country from cartel violence?

Health and science:

• The FLiRT subvariants are rising : How bad will a California COVID wave get?
• Signs of rising COVID in California as new FLiRT subvariants dominate.
• Los Angeles could end COVID vaccination rule for city employees.
• The more women followed this diet , the longer they lived.

More big stories:

• Made it! Californian climbers use pioneering techniques to summit Mt. Everest .
• State audit finds major backlog of wage theft claims in California.
• Topanga Canyon Boulevard to reopen Sunday, months ahead of schedule.
• How Beyond Meat is trying to get its sizzle back.
• John Lennon’s newly repaired 12-string ‘Help!’ guitar sells for a record $2.85 million .
• Solar project to destroy thousands of Joshua trees in the Mojave Desert.

Get unlimited access to the Los Angeles Times. Subscribe here .

Commentary and opinions

• Harry Litman: Does it matter that Donald Trump just became a convicted criminal? Of course it does.
• LZ Granderson: With this guilty verdict, Trump has gone full Bond villain .
• Gustavo Arellano: The very L.A. lessons at the heart of reality TV smash ‘Vanderpump Rules.’
• Editorial: Phew. Anti-transgender measure won’t be on the November ballot.

Today’s great reads

A guide to mental health in Vietnamese. How to talk about family, grief, trauma and more, in Vietnamese, according to experts and community members.

One more great read:

• In the ‘gay capital’ of Asia, Chinese LGBTQ+ emigres look to build a new life.

How can we make this newsletter more useful? Send comments to [email protected] .

For your downtime

Going out (in Las Vegas)

• 🎰🌆 Here’s how to conquer the new Las Vegas .
• 🍹 Everywhere you need to eat right now, on and off the Strip.
• 🎢 9 immersive experiences you should book ASAP.
• 📖 10 books to add to your reading list in June .
• 🧑‍🍳 Here’s a recipe for skillet chicken thighs with peas & pickled chiles.
• ✏️ Get our free daily crossword puzzle, sudoku, word search and arcade games .

How well did you follow the news this week? Take our quiz.

Which actor lends his voice to the lasagna-loving feline in the new release ‘The Garfield Movie’? Plus nine other questions from our weekly news quiz.

Have a great weekend, from the Essential California team:

Jaclyn Cosgrove, reporter Defne Karabatur, fellow Christian Orozco, assistant editor Karim Doumar, head of newsletters

Check our top stories , topics and the latest articles on latimes.com .

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

Jaclyn Cosgrove covers the (great!) outdoors at the Los Angeles Times. They started at The Times in 2017 and have written about wildfires, culture, protests, crime and county government. In 2022, they managed For Your Mind, a yearlong mental health project. Cosgrove is originally from rural Oklahoma and is a proud Oklahoma State University graduate. They fell in love with the Southern California landscape when they moved here in 2017. They are always looking for the next adventure and welcome your ideas. If their phone goes straight to voicemail when you call, it probably means they’re in the mountains with their beloved dog, Maggie May.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Elon Musk, America’s richest immigrant, is angry about immigration. Can he influence the election?

Climate & Environment

The U.S. Drought Monitor is a critical tool for the arid West. Can it keep up with climate change?

Housing & Homelessness

After 13 years, a homeless Angeleno broke into her old, vacant home and wants to stay forever

WeHo Pride parade-goers talk joy and inclusivity, trans rights and a thread of fear

Trump campaign doubles previous one-day record fundraising haul after guilty verdict

Former President Donald Trump's campaign says it raised a whopping $34.8 million in small dollar donations after he was convicted Thursday on 34 felony counts in Manhattan.

The campaign said the Thursday haul was "the biggest day ever recorded" for Trump's vaunted small-dollar fundraising operation on the WinRed platform, nearly doubling the previous high. The WinRed website temporarily crashed from the overwhelming traffic.

In a statement Friday morning, senior campaign advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita said that within minutes of the verdict "our digital fundraising system was overwhelmed with support, and despite temporary delays online because of the amount of traffic, President Trump raised $34.8 million dollars from small dollar donors."

"Not only was the amount historic, but 29.7% of yesterday's donor's were brand new donors to the WinRed platform," the statement added.

Trump was found guilty in New York state court of falsifying business records to cover up hush money payments to a porn star to conceal an alleged affair. He was found to have done so to hide another crime, such as a campaign finance law violation or a tax code violation, making the charges felonies. He will be sentenced on July 11 and he could face probation, community service or a short jail stint.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

An aggressive Trump campaign effort to capitalize on the conviction

Trump’s campaign texted supporters at least five times asking them to donate and sharing a link to a WinRed page that called Trump a “political prisoner,” framed his conviction as a “witch hunt,” and included a copy of his mugshot from an unrelated case in Atlanta, Georgia. The page asked 10 million people to donate.

Additionally, dozens of Trump's allies shared the same link to the WinRed page on X, formerly known as Twitter. They include Republican Sens. Katie Britt of Alabama, Marco Rubio of Florida, J.D. Vance of Ohio, Tim Scott of South Carolina and Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee. Reps. Elise Stefanik of New York, Byron Donalds of Florida and Steve Scalise of Louisiana also shared.

More: 'Speechless': Swing state voters react to Donald Trump's guilty verdict

Trump’s campaign wrote on Truth Social less than an hour after the verdict was announced, “So many Americans were moved to donate to President Trump’s campaign that the WinRed pages went down. "We are working on getting the website back online as quickly as possible.”

USA TODAY's inquiry to WinRed was not immediately returned. 

Small-dollar donations often can be a measure of grassroots enthusiasm for a candidate. In Trump's case, they have been a barometer for how the GOP base is responding to his legal troubles.

Trump has used each of his four criminal indictments to raise money, but his first conviction gave his fundraising a bigger boost.