The Top 10 Things To Do in Split, Croatia

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Split, Croatia completely swept me off my feet! I came for the beaches and the sunshine, but what I found was a city bursting with charm, history, and that laid-back Mediterranean magic you can’t help but fall for. Imagine wandering through 1700-year-old Roman ruins one minute and sipping a cold drink by the sea the next — that’s Split in a nutshell.

Whether it’s your first time here or you’re stopping by before island hopping, there are so many amazing things to do in Split that it can get a little overwhelming. Don’t worry — I’ve done the legwork (and a lot of gelato testing) so you don’t have to! This guide is packed with real tips from my own trip, local favorites, and a mix of must-see sights and hidden gems that will make your time in Split totally unforgettable.

So grab your sunglasses and let’s dive into the best things to do in Split — because this little coastal city is way more than just a pretty stop on the map!

The Top 10 Things To Do in Split, Croatia

Top things to do in Split
Where to eat in Split
Where to stay in Split
Best time to visit Split
Getting Around Split

Top things to do in Split

1. Explore the Ancient Heart: Diocletian’s Palace

If there’s one place in Split that truly makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, it’s Diocletian’s Palace. But let’s clear something up — this isn’t your typical palace. It’s not roped off with velvet barriers or guarded by ticket booths. Nope. This 1700-year-old Roman palace is the beating heart of the city, and the wildest part? Locals still live inside it.

Wandering through its narrow alleyways feels like being on a movie set — and for good reason. Some scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed right here, especially in the palace’s eerie underground cellars.

One of my favorite spots is Peristyle Square, where you can sit on the steps with a coffee and watch the world go by — surrounded by marble columns and live music echoing off the stone. There’s just something magical about how Split blends everyday life with its ancient roots.

🎫 TOUR – Discover the Diocletian’s Palace on this Old Town walking tour in Split

💡 TIP – Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the soft morning light for photos.

2. Get Lost in the Old Town

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Split? Just wander. No plan, no map — just you and the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. It might sound cliché, but trust me, getting lost here is part of the magic.

The Old Town of Split is basically an extension of Diocletian’s Palace — think charming alleyways wrapped in stone, unexpected courtyards filled with ivy, and the kind of architectural details that make you stop and stare. Around every corner, there’s something new to discover: a tiny artisan shop, a sleepy cat sunbathing on a windowsill, or a hidden wine bar that smells like grilled octopus and sea breeze.

I loved how the streets twist and turn — you’ll probably walk in circles, and that’s totally okay. Half the fun is stumbling upon quiet little corners that feel like your own private slice of Croatia.

💡 TIP – Wear comfy shoes — those stones are slippery and uneven!

3. Climb the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius

Okay, if you’re not afraid of heights (or a bit of a leg workout), climbing the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius is so worth it.

Ticket Options (2025)

Basic Admission: €7 – Grants access to the Cathedral, Crypt, and Baptistery.
Bell Tower Only: €10 – For those solely interested in the climb and the views.
All-Inclusive Ticket: €11 – Includes the Cathedral, Crypt, Baptistery, Treasury, and the Bell Tower.

The tower rises right above the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, and the views from the top? Absolutely unreal. You’ll get sweeping vistas over the terracotta rooftops of Split, the sparkling Adriatic Sea, and even a peek at the nearby islands on a clear day.

But let me be honest — the climb is not for the faint of heart. The stairs are narrow and steep, and it gets a little shaky with the open sides and metal steps. If you don’t love heights, you might feel a little wobbly. But if you take it slow and focus on what’s ahead, it’s totally doable — and so worth it for that 360° view.

💡 TIP – We were able to leave our stroller attended during the climb up.

4. Take in the views over Split from Marjan Hill

The walk up to the viewpoint starts with a climb (yep, stairs again — Split loves them), but it’s totally manageable, and the shady pine trees make it feel like a mini escape from the busy streets below. About halfway up, you’ll hit a little viewpoint near Café Vidilica, and trust me, you’ll want to stop here. The view stretches across the Old Town, the harbor, and out to the islands — it’s one of those moments that just makes a trip.

If you’re feeling up for it, you can keep going all the way to the top of the hill — Telegrin, the highest point of Marjan. It’s a bit more of a workout, but the 360° views at the top are unreal. Think sea, mountains, and city all in one frame. Total postcard vibes.

💡 TIP – The hike up to Telegrin is absolutely not stroller friendly! Unfortunately we left the hiking carrier at the apartment and weren’t able to make it all the way to the top.

5. Chill Out at Bačvice or Ježinac Beach

Split is full of ancient ruins and buzzing cafés, but sometimes you just need to press pause and head for the beach. Thankfully, there are some great options right near the city — whether you’re after a laid-back swim or a lively crowd.

First up: Bačvice Beach. This one’s a Split classic. Just a short walk from the Old Town, it’s the city’s most famous beach — and it’s always full of life. You’ll spot locals playing picigin (a chaotic, splashy water game), travelers sunbathing on the sand, and plenty of beach bars pumping music well into the evening. The vibe is super social, and the shallow sandy shore makes it a fun spot for a casual swim or a lazy float.

Looking for a more family friendly option? Head to Plaža Ježinac. It’s tucked away just beyond Marjan Hill, and it’s got that perfect mix of crystal-clear water, smooth rocks, and a more relaxed crowd. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing, or just sitting by the sea with a book.

💡 TIP – We visited Kašjuni Beach but I didn’t find it child friendly at all. We were the only family there, surrounded by Gen Z’s sleeping off their hangover.

6. Go island hopping to Hvar or Brač

If you’ve got a day to spare, jump on a boat! Seriously. From Split’s harbor, you can reach places like Hvar (hello, fancy cafés and lavender shops) or Brač — home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach. There are tons of boat tours leaving daily, some super chill and others a bit more party-style. Just pick your vibe!

💡TIP – Bring reef shoes if you’re planning to swim — Croatian beaches = pebbles + sea urchins.

7. Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park

I’ve already written about how much I loved Krka Waterfalls — and trust me, it’s worth the hype. Just over an hour’s drive from Split, this national park is all waterfalls, wooden walkways, and turquoise pools that look like something out of a travel magazine. You can swim in some parts of the park (unlike Plitvice), and the hike is totally doable even if you’re not super outdoorsy.

🎫 TOUR – Explore Krka Waterfalls on a day trip from Split

8. Visit the beautiful town Trogir

If you’re short on time or just want something super cute and easy, hop on a bus or take a taxi to Trogir. It’s a tiny UNESCO-listed town about 30 minutes from Split, full of cobblestone alleys, ancient churches, and cafés where time moves a little slower. Perfect for a half-day wander and a gelato stop.

🎫 TOUR – Take this historical tour from Split to Trogir

9. Wander the Riva Promenade at Night

After a full day of exploring ruins, swimming in salty water, or hopping between islands, there’s nothing better than winding down with a slow stroll along Split’s Riva Promenade. It’s the kind of place where everything slows down — in the best way possible.

Lined with swaying palm trees, colorful old buildings, and a stretch of cafés and bars facing the sea, the Riva totally transforms after sunset. Locals come out for their evening walk, families gather for ice cream, and street performers fill the air with music. It’s not loud or chaotic — just warm, golden, and full of life.

10. Step Into History at Klis Fortress

If you’re into history, Game of Thrones, or just love a good view, Klis is a must. This ancient fortress has guarded the mountain pass into Split for over 2,000 years, and walking through it feels like stepping into a time machine (with bonus sword-fighting vibes). You might even recognize it — it was used as the city of Meereen in Game of Thrones, and once you’re there, you’ll totally see why.

What I loved most? It wasn’t crowded. Unlike the main tourist spots in Split, Klis feels quiet, raw, and real. You can wander the old stone walls at your own pace, climb up towers for insane views over Split and the islands, and imagine what it must’ve been like to defend this place back in the day. There’s also a small museum with old weapons and traditional costumes — nothing flashy, but super interesting.

Tips for Visiting Klis Fortress

Getting there – It’s about a 20-minute drive from Split or you can join this wonderful sunset tour to Klis Fortress.
Entrance fee – Around €10 for adults (well worth it for the views alone).
Go early or late – Midday gets hot — the fortress is exposed and there’s not much shade.
Bring water and sunscreen, especially in summer — and wear good shoes, the stones are uneven.

Where to eat in Split

Let’s be real — one of the best parts about visiting Croatia is the food. And Split? Oh, Split delivers. Think sun-ripened tomatoes, melt-in-your-mouth seafood, and slow-cooked dishes passed down through generations. Whether you’re into fresh-off-the-boat fish or cozy taverns serving grandma-style stews, Split’s food scene is all about comfort, flavor, and that “Mediterranean but make it Croatian” twist.

💡 TIP – Grab a delicious ice cream at Ela’s Gelateria Artigianale and grab dinner at one of the most beautiful squares in Split at Konoba Marul.

Where to stay in Split

For first time visitors ‘s I highly recommend staying inside of the Old Town or right next to it. For instance we were doing a road trip around Croatia and traveled by car with a lot of luggage in tow. Yes, here’s looking at you César! So for us it was more convenient to stay right outside of the Old Town.

We stayed at Apartment Petro Oldtown, nothing fancy, but a modern and rather cheap apartment that had all the facilities we needed and only 5 minutes walking from Old Town.

If you feel like splurging a little I would recommend Hotel Ambasador. We walked by it while strolling along the harbor and it looked absolutely phenomenal and offers the best view over the historic center of Split.

Best time to visit Split

Shoulder season is your best friend. May to early June and September are chef’s kiss — warm enough to swim, but without the overwhelming summer crowds or scorching heat. You’ll have space to breathe, better prices, and way fewer people in your sunset photos.

Getting Around Split

Split is super walkable — you can explore most of the Old Town on foot. For beaches or Marjan Hill, just throw on some comfy shoes and go or take an Uber. If you want to visit nearby places like Trogir or Klis Fortress, I would recommend renting a car or go with one of the suggested tours below: