What to Do in Split, Croatia: 12 Fantastic Experiences

Welcome to Split, Croatia! This coastal gem along the Adriatic Sea is a wonderful European escape, which remains somewhat overlooked by many American travelers. This vibrant city has a rich, storied history, dating back originally to the 3rd century BC, when it was founded as the Greek colony of Aspálathos. Later, it became the retirement palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian. Since then, the Byzantines, the Venetian Republic, the Habsburgs, the Austrian Empire, and many more cultures and civilizations have left their mark on this city.

Today, Split majestically showcases its historical significance, but it also has a wonderful energy filling the streets day and night, a magical culinary scene, and welcoming, easy-going locals. What’s more, this is also a great base from which to discover other parts of Croatia, including Plitvice National Park. Read on to discover what to do in Split, Croatia!

1. Discover Diocletian’s Palace: A Vestige of Split’s Roman History

Dating back to 305 CE, 3000 people, 200 buildings, Diocletian’s Palace is one of the best preserved and largest Roman remains in existence, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This multi-functional complex was built as a retirement residence for Emperor Diocletian, a local peasant who went on to become a formidable ruler whose economic, administrative, and military reforms stabilized the Roman Empire after a period of turbulence. It was here that Diocletian spent his final years. Later, nearby residents fled to this walled complex seeking protection from invading barbarians, and it has been occupied ever since.

If you’re visiting the palace and want to experience what Diocletian’s Palace was really like in Ancient Rome, thanks to VR, now you can! Check out the Diocletian’s Dream virtual reality 3D 360º experience.

What is Diocletian’s Palace today?

Today, this wonderful site forms the very core of Split’s old town, and much of it is still standing and even inhabited. As such, this monument is free to enter and explore, and continues to breathe life into Split with its maze of cobblestoned alleys, many restaurants, bars, and shops. To explore Diocletian’s Palace along with its old town, take a look at our Split free tour!

Here are some of the main parts of the site to check out:

The Peristyle: Central Courtyard

The main courtyard of Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristyle, was the palace’s hub, where officials would meet, and the emperor would give speeches. Today, locals and tourists alike gather in the square to listen to street performers and to enjoy a glass of wine.

The Golden Gate

The main entrance to Diocletian’s Palace, the Golden Gate, or Northern Gate, is the most elaborate of the gates of the city. Evidently not made from gold, its name (coined in the 1600s) refers to its importance within the complex. It would have featured a portcullis raised and lowered by guards from the upper corridor, and there were two towers manned by guards.

Cathedral of Saint Domnius

Originally the Mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, this octagonal building was converted into a cathedral during the 5th century. Encircled by 24 columns, the cathedral also features a Romanesque bell tower built between the 13th and 16th centuries and later rebuilt in the 20th century. You can climb this tower for yourself from some of the best views Split has to offer!

Temple of Jupiter

The Temple of Jupiter, dedicated to the Roman god of the same name, can be found on the western part of the complex, just off the Peristyle. Later converted to be the cathedral’s baptistery. Inside, you’ll find a wonderful barrel-vaulted ceiling, a decorative frieze, and, in its center, where a statue depicting Jupiter once stood, there is now a bronze statue of St John the Baptist

2. Go on a Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a selection of boardwalk trails that will lead you through wondrous turquoise lakes (about 16 in total) and cascading waterfalls (over 90 of them) surrounded by gorgeous green vegetation. The park’s boardwalks allow visitors to seamlessly traverse the park, even over water features, all while preserving the delicate natural ecosystem. There are options for people of all interests, whether you want to enjoy a leisurely walk in nature or a challenging hike.

Around 3 hours and 30 minutes from Split, Plitvice National Park is a challenging but doable day trip, as long as you plan accordingly. The easiest way to visit is as part of the Plitvice Lakes National Park day trip from Split, which includes transport each way, a guide, admission to the park, a boat ride and more!

3. Take a Cruise on the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon, nestled along the Adriatic coast, is a national gem. Not to be confused with Iceland’s famous spa of the same name, Croatia’s blue lagoon is a bright blue and turquoise bay with gorgeous golden beaches, and stunning views that simply aren’t done justice by photographs—that’s right, it’s even more stunning in real life. These waters feel as though they were created with swimming and snorkeling in mind, featuring wonderfully calm and shallow waters.

Just a short boat ride from Split, the best way to enjoy this paradise for yourself is on this Blue Lagoon cruise from Split with Civitatis, which also includes a stop in the historic city of Trogir! Check it out!

4. Enjoy Split’s Best Beaches (Our Favorites)

Split is home to a wonderful variety of beaches, with one suited to every type of traveler. Party beaches, secluded, family friendly, some are close by, some are day trips.

• Bačvice Beach (central & lively): a beautiful sandy beach with gorgeous mountain views, this central beach is frequented by both tourists and locals, and is known for its family-friendly vibe during the day, and party vibe at night
• Kašjuni Beach (secluded & scenic): a quiet beach just a short drive away from Split’s city center. Surrounded by green cliffs, Kašjuni is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding views.
• Trstenik Beach (laid-back & quiet): a peaceful beach with lots of room and crystal clear water. A great central option that is less busy than Bačvice.
• Bene Beach (shady & local): a popular spot among locals, this lovely beach is nestled in a pine forest in Marjan Forest Park. There’s plenty of shade and all the amenities you could need.
• Ovčice Beach (casual & central): Ovčice Beach in Split is a charming, centrally located spot with a mix of pebbles and concrete, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Its relaxed vibe, clear waters, and nearby cafes make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

5. Discover Split’s Cuisine: Soparnik, Peka, Proscuitto…

Somewhat underrepresented abroad, Croatian food is criminally underrated, and only in recent years has it become a foodie destination for those ‘in the know’, and Split is one of the main hotspots for good grub. Whether you’re in the market for fine dining or great value feeds, there are a ton of spots in the city to check out.

So, what is Croatian food like? It’s an interesting cuisine, which unsurprisingly overlaps with Mediterranean countries. You’ll find lots of pasta, pizza, and prosciutto, as well as dishes of Eastern European, Turkish, and local origin. Key ingredients include high-quality EVOO, garlic, paprika, lamb, and lots of seafood.

Pictured below is Soparnik, a Croatian savory pie that’s crispy and oily, filled often with garlic and Swiss chard. Another must is Peka, which isn’t a dish, but rather a cooking method, which involves cooking food on a clay or wrought-iron baking vessel over an open flame. Everything from baked bread to roast beef and lamb is cooked using this method.

6. Marvel at the Krka Waterfalls at Krka National Park

Another day trip option, Krka National Park, is a great option for those looking to escape into nature, without traveling quite as far as Plitvice. Krka is only around 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Split, so it only takes 1-1.5 hours to get there. This park is absolutely beautiful, with 22 gorgeous trails bringing you to beautiful waterfalls, as well as two historic monasteries, Visovac and Krka.

Being completely honest, Krka isn’t as visually stunning as Plitvice, though Krka is more accessible, especially from Split, and is still absolutely worth visiting. This is especially true if you want to swim, which isn’t permitted in Plitvice National Park, but is allowed in Krka between June 1 and September 30.

Check out Krka for yourself on this Krka waterfalls tour from Split, which includes transportation, a tour guide, and a boat ride at the park!

Keep in mind: During high season, Krka National Park can get very busy, so try and visit early in the morning to miss the crowds.

7. Visit the Hvar & Pakleni Islands

Just off the coast of Split lies the glamorous island of Hvar, a popular spot for yachters and island hoppers. With a rich history, sun-soaked vineyards, and a beautiful old town, Hvar has been shaped by the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and more. The town’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral, 16th-century Hvar Fortress (Fortica), and cobblestone alleys all tell stories of centuries gone by.

Beyond Hvar lie the Pakleni Islands, a chain of small, forest-covered islets known for their secluded beaches and hidden coves. These unspoiled gems are the perfect place to swim, snorkel, or sip cocktails on the beach.

The best way to visit is by hopping on this full-day catamaran cruise from Split that takes you to Hvar and the Pakleni Islands. You’ll sail through crystal-clear waters, stop at beautiful swim spots, and still have time to explore Hvar town. Absolute Mediterranean bliss!

8. See Where Game of Thrones Was Filmed

Did you know that a lot of the hit show Game of Thrones was filmed in Croatia? Most of the shots in Croatia were filmed in Dubrovnik, though Split also played an important part in the filming of George R.R. Martin’s creation. You can check out the top spots with a tour guide on this Split Game of Thrones tour, or you can check them out yourself!:

• Diocletian’s Palace – Cellars: Meereen underground passageways where Daenerys trains her dragons and where enslaved characters gather by firelight
• Diocletian’s Palace Winery: Filming location for the slave quarters in Meereen
• Golden Gate (Diocletian’s Palace): Entrance guarded by the Unsullied in Meereen
• The Great Pit of Daznak (near Diocletian’s Palace): Arena where Daenerys witnesses gladiator-style combat
• Klis Fortress: Exterior shots of Meereen, especially Daenerys’s arrival and rule
• Žrnovnica Village: Location for Missandei’s bathing scene and other lush surroundings outside Meereen

9. Brač & Šolta Islands Boat Cruise

Looking for a more low-key, authentic island escape? Just a short boat ride away from Split, the islands of Brač and Šolta offer the perfect counterbalance to the buzz of Hvar.

Perhaps best known for Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), one of the most iconic beaches in Croatia. The island is also renowned for its white Brač stone, used in landmarks like Diocletian’s Palace—and allegedly even the White House. You’ll also find quaint villages, olive oil tastings, and laid-back beach vibes.

Šolta, on the other hand, is still a bit of a hidden gem. It’s the place to go if you want sleepy fishing villages, olive groves, and peaceful coves where you might have the beach all to yourself. Stop by the harbor town of Maslinica, hike along old stone paths, or just dive into the Adriatic.

A boat tour to Brač & Šolta is the ideal way to spend a sunny day—complete with lunch, snorkel stops, and a refreshing break from city crowds!

10. Climb Marjan Hill

If you need a break from sightseeing and beach-hopping, head west to Marjan Hill, a peaceful forested peninsula that locals lovingly call ‘the lungs of Split.’ For centuries, Marjan Hill has been a retreat for people wanting to go and enjoy nature. Hermit caves and chapels dating back to the 13th century are still evident in the park.

Start your hike at the Marjan Staircase, which will bring you through a number of stunning scenic viewpoints over Split’s old town and its harbor—just be prepared for a little bit of a workout.

The highest point of Marjan is Telegrin Peak, which offers a stunning panoramic shot of the city and coastline, especially at golden hour. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or simply want to escape the heat under some pine trees, Marjan is a serene and stunning way to experience Split.

11. Explore the Ruins of Salona

Just a short 3-4 mi (5-6 km) drive from Split lies Salona, once the bustling capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. At its peak, Salona was a major Roman city boasting a population of over 60,000 inhabitants, and featuring classic Roman aqueducts, forums, baths, and an amphitheater that once seated 15,000-18,000 bloodthirsty spectators who would have attended gladiator fights.

Today, the archaeological site of Salona is an open-air museum of partially excavated ruins, where you walk between the city walls, marvel at its gorgeous mosaic floors, see the remains of early Christian basilicas, and much more, all surrounded by olive trees and wildflowers. Salona is an unforgettable destination for any history enthusiast.

Pro tip: Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and give yourself a few hours to soak it all in.

12. Watch the Sunset at Sustipan and Go for a Bambus

There’s no better way to end a day in Split than by watching the sun fall away below the Adriatic Sea. Our favorite spot to watch the sun set is from the magical Sustipan Park. This west-facing viewpoint offers the perfect front-row seat to some of the most stunning sunsets on the Dalmatian coast, with views of distant islands bathed in a sleepy orange glow.

Want to really do it like a local? Once you’ve watched the sunset, stumble into a local bar and grab a Bambus. This classic Croatian drink is made from red wine and Cola, and is a lovely, refreshing way to round off an evening.

There you have it! If you’re still looking for ways to enjoy the city, check out more tours & experiences in Split with Civitatis! Cheers!