Triplitica.com

Split Croatia Travel Guide (2026): Things to Do, Beaches, Day Trips & Tips

Dec 28, 2025

Split, Croatia is one of the most popular destinations on the Adriatic — and one of the most unique cities in Europe. Built around a 1,700-year-old Roman palace and surrounded by beaches, islands, and mountains, Split offers history, culture, relaxation, and adventure in one compact destination.

Whether you’re visiting Split for a weekend, a summer holiday, or as a base for island hopping, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.

Panoramic view of Split, Croatia, featuring the Cathedral of Saint Domnius bell tower

Where Is Split, Croatia?
Split is located on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, along the Adriatic Sea. It is the second-largest city in the country and one of the most important travel hubs in Croatia.

Split is well connected by:
International airport (Split Airport – SPU)
Ferries to Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula
Highways and buses from Dubrovnik and Zagreb

Because of its location, Split is often used as a starting point for exploring southern Croatia.

Why Visit Split, Croatia?
Split stands out because it combines:
Ancient history
Mediterranean lifestyle
Beaches within walking distance
Easy access to islands and national parks

Unlike many historic cities, Split is not a museum — it’s a living city where locals shop, work, and socialize inside ancient walls.

Diocletian’s Palace: The Heart of Split
At the center of Split is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 4th century by Roman Emperor Diocletian.

What makes it special is that:
The palace is still inhabited
Streets, homes, shops, and cafés exist inside the original walls
You can explore it freely without an entrance fee

Key spots inside the palace include:
Peristyle Square
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Palace basements
Temple of Jupiter

This is the most important historical site in Split and the main reason many visitors come.

Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia
Walk the Riva Promenade
The Riva is Split’s waterfront promenade and social center. It’s lined with palm trees, cafés, and views of the harbor, making it ideal for walking, relaxing, and watching the city go by.

Visit Marjan Hill
Marjan Hill is a green park just west of the old town. It offers walking and hiking trails, viewpoints over the city, and access to quieter beaches.

Relax on Split’s Beaches
Some of the most popular beaches include:
Bačvice Beach – sandy and lively
Kašjuni Beach – scenic and clear water
Žnjan Beach – spacious and family-friendly
All are easily reachable from the city center.

Day Trips From Split
Split is one of the best bases in Croatia for day trips.

Popular options include:
Hvar Island
Blue Cave and Vis Island
Brač Island and Zlatni Rat Beach
Krka National Park
Trogir Old Town

Many travelers choose Split specifically because of these nearby attractions.

👉 Book popular Split day trips here

Where to Stay in Split, Croatia
The best area to stay depends on your travel style:
Old Town (Diocletian’s Palace) – best for sightseeing
Bačvice – close to beaches and nightlife
Znjan – quieter and family-friendly

Split offers a wide range of accommodation, from apartments to luxury hotels.

👉 Compare hotels and apartments in Split

Best Time to Visit Split
The best time to visit Split, Croatia is:
May–June and September for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
July and August are the busiest months, with higher temperatures and more visitors.
Spring and early autumn are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Food and Local Cuisine in Split
Split’s cuisine is Mediterranean, focusing on fresh ingredients and simple flavors.

Common dishes include:
Grilled fish and seafood
Black risotto
Peka
Dalmatian prosciutto and cheese

Many restaurants are located inside the old town, offering traditional food in historic settings.

Getting Around Split
Split is a walkable city, especially around the old town. Public buses connect other neighborhoods, and ferries depart from the main port.

For exploring nearby regions, renting a car can be useful, but it’s not necessary for staying within the city.

Is Split, Croatia Worth Visiting?
Yes — Split is one of the most well-rounded destinations in Croatia. It offers history, beaches, nature, nightlife, and excellent connections to islands and national parks.

For first-time visitors to Croatia, Split is often the best place to start.

Final Thoughts
Split, Croatia is more than just a stopover — it’s a destination that combines ancient history with modern Mediterranean life. Whether you stay for a few days or use it as a base to explore the Dalmatian coast, Split delivers a memorable travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Split, Croatia
Is Split, Croatia worth visiting?
Yes, Split is one of the best destinations in Croatia, offering a unique mix of history, beaches, island access, and vibrant local life.

How many days do you need in Split, Croatia?
Most visitors spend 2–4 days in Split, with extra time for island hopping and day trips.

Is Split Croatia expensive?
Split is more affordable than many Western European coastal cities, especially outside peak summer months.

Can you visit Split without a car?
Yes, Split is very walkable and well connected by public transport and ferries.