I created my Split Croatia Travel Guide based on my own experience spending time in Split over the past 10 years and visiting the city every year atleast 3-4 times a year. I’ve explored the city extensively while I was there for work, so everything I recommend comes from my personal experience and local knowledge.
From the best things to do and where to stay to hidden gems, restaurants, and practical travel tips, I want this guide to help you experience Split like a local, rather than just ticking off the most popular tourist attractions. I also work with local Croatian businesses and create personalised itineraries for travellers who want to experience Croatia in a more authentic, memorable, and personal way.
How Many Days Do You Need In Split?
You’ll need one full day to properly explore Diocletian’s Palace, but if you want to explore more around Split, like Klis Fortress and the Roman ruins, I’d recommend staying 2–3 days. If you’re using Split as a base for island hopping and day trips, you can easily spend 5–6 days here.
Is Split Worth Visiting?
I would! But it depends on what you’re looking for. Some people come to Split expecting a beach destination, but it’s a large, lively city. It’s definitely one of the places in Croatia, with a great mix of history, beaches, food and island life, plus it’s a fantastic base for day trips and island hopping.
What is There To Do in Split?
There’s plenty to do in Split, from exploring Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town to relaxing on the beaches. Split is also a great base for day trips to Brac, Hvar, Solta, the Blue Lagoon, coastal towns like Omis, Trogir, Sibenik, and Krka Waterfalls, so you can easily fill several days exploring the area.
What are the best things to do in Split?
From exploring Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town to walking along the Riva and relaxing on the beaches. But I’d also recommend getting out of the city with day trips to nearby islands, the Blue Lagoon, Krka Waterfalls and charming coastal towns. Split is one of the best bases in Croatia for exploring the Dalmatian coast.
Split or Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is more compact and focused on its historic Old Town, while Split feels more like a real, large, Croatian city with a larger local scene, beaches and easy access to nearby islands and day trips.
Best Islands To Visit From Split
The most popular choices are Hvar, Brac, Korcula and Vis, each offering something different. You can easily visit some as a day trip or spend a few nights on the islands for a slower experience.
Boat Tour
One of the best ways to explore. You can take a day trip to Hvar, Brac or Vis, or join a tour to the Blue Lagoon and nearby coastal towns. It’s an easy way to see more of the Adriatic in a day without having to plan everything yourself.
YOUR GO-TO SPLIT GUIDES AND ITINERARIES
How I Would Spend My Time in Split
After spending many summers exploring Split, I’ve learned that it can be a very polarising city. Some people are surprised by how much they love it, while others feel like they’ve seen everything after just one day. So I’ve put together my favourite Split itineraries to help you experience the city without the guesswork and decide if Split is the right fit for you.
Click on the photo to choose your Split itinerary!
BEST RESTAURANTS IN Split
Looking for the best places to eat in Split? Explore my recommendations for Å ug, Dvor, Bokeria, Fig, Bakra and Buffet Fife, with options ranging from local Croatian food and seafood to casual, affordable favourites. Every restaurant is personally tested by me or recommended by trusted locals, so you can find great food that fits your budget and travel style.
let me write your croatia itinerary!
If you’re unsure how to plan your trip or simply don’t have the time, I’d be happy to create the perfect Croatia itinerary for you!
Just send me the details I need, and you’ll receive a fully customised itinerary within a week!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Split best known for?
Split is best known for the incredible Diocletian’s Palace, as well as its proximity to some of Croatia’s most popular islands. It’s also the perfect base for a day trip to the amazing Blue Cave!
How many days should I spend in Split?
You’ll need about 2 days to see just the Old Town, but if you want to explore more of Split, spend time on the beaches, and take a couple of great day trips, I’d suggest 5 days.
What are the must-see attractions in Split?
The must-see attractions are the Diocletian’s Palace, Saint Domnius’ Cathedral, Marjan Park, Klis Fortess. Must do activities are a trip to the Blue Cave, Blue Lagoon, and Hvar.
Is Split a good base for exploring the Dalmatian coast and islands?
How do I get from Split Airport to the city center?
It’s actually not hard, but it does take a bit of time. The airport is near Trogir, so you can either take a shuttle bus from the airport, Uber/Taxi, or the public bus 37 to get to Split.
What are the best day trips from Split?
There are so many! I’d say Krka National Park, Trogir, Hvar, Blue Cave (Vis), Brac, Makarska Riviera, OmiÅ¡, and many others.
Is Split cheaper or more expensive than Dubrovnik?
The Old Towns are both quite expensive, but Split is bigger so it’s easier to find more affordable options once you step away from the main spots.
Do I need cash, or is card widely accepted in Split?
Yes, you’ll need some cash. Most restaurants, bars, and attractions take cards, but smaller bars, souvenir stands, and ice cream shops often only take cash. You’ll also want it for tipping!
Is Split walkable for tourists?
Yes, Split is very walkable, especially around the Old Town, Riva and Diocletian’s Palace, where most of the main sights are close together. You can easily explore the historic centre on foot, although you’ll probably want transport bus/taxi for some beaches, Klis and places further outside the centre.
Can you swim in Split, Croatia?
Yes, but Split isn’t really considered a beach destination because it’s a large city, and many visitors head elsewhere for a proper beach holiday. That said, Split has several beaches where you can swim, mostly pebble or rocky beaches with clear, beautiful water. It’s easy to combine sightseeing in the morning with a swim in the afternoon.
Can you visit Hvar from Split as a day trip?
Yes, Hvar is one of the easiest islands to visit from Split on a day trip. During the summer, there are frequent catamarans from 3 different companies connecting Split and Hvar Town, so you can spend the day exploring the island, swimming and enjoying the town before returning to Split.
Can you visit Krka Waterfalls from Split?
Yes, Krka Waterfalls are an easy day trip from Split. Krka National Park is around an hour and a half from Split by car, and there are also organised tours if you don’t have your own transport. It’s a great way to add some nature to your Split itinerary.
Is Split good for a beach holiday?
Yes, but I wouldn’t choose Split if your main goal is a traditional beach holiday. Split is a large, lively city with a mix of history, restaurants, nightlife and beaches. If you want to combine city sightseeing with swimming and island trips, it’s a great choice; for a quieter beach-focused holiday, I’d look at the nearby islands or smaller coastal towns.
What is Split like in summer?
Split is busy, hot and lively in summer, especially in July and August, which makes it a great spot for going out. The Old Town can get crowded during the day, but the city has a great atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, nightlife, beaches and boat trips. If you want warm weather with fewer crowds, June or September are my preferred months. And definitely explore the Old Town at night, it has a completely different feel with much smaller crowds and narrow alleys.