Picture this: you’re standing in the heart of a 1,700-year-old Roman palace, but instead of roped-off ruins, you’re surrounded by bustling cafés, boutique shops, and locals going about their daily lives. Welcome to Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, where ancient history and modern Mediterranean life blend seamlessly together.
Split isn’t just another pretty coastal town. It’s a living, breathing time capsule where emperors once walked the same marble streets you’ll stroll along today.
Whether you’re planning a quick stopover or a week-long adventure, this guide covers the best things to do in Split, from must-see historical sites to hidden local gems that will make your trip unforgettable.
Explore the Magnificent Diocletian’s Palace
No list of things to do in Split would be complete without mentioning Diocletian’s Palace. This isn’t your typical museum-style ruin. Built in the 4th century AD as Roman Emperor Diocletian’s retirement home, the palace has evolved into Split’s vibrant Old Town, where approximately 3,000 people still live and work today.
As you wander through the ancient limestone corridors, you’ll discover restaurants occupying former servants’ chambers and markets filling dungeons that once held supplies. The palace walls tower above narrow alleyways, creating an enchanting maze that begs to be explored.
The best part? Much of Diocletian’s Palace can be explored for free. Simply walk through the gates and lose yourself in history.
However, to truly appreciate the palace’s grandeur, consider purchasing a ticket to access the interior sites. You’ll be able to explore the atmospheric basement cellars, which once supported the emperor’s private apartments above.
These vaulted underground chambers have been beautifully preserved and occasionally host art exhibitions and concerts. Game of Thrones fans will recognize these cellars as Daenerys’ throne room and dragon lair.
Start your exploration at the Peristyle, the palace’s central courtyard. This impressive square served as the ceremonial heart of the palace and remains one of the most photographed spots in Split.
The polished marble pavement reflects centuries of footsteps, and you’ll often find street performers bringing additional energy to this already vibrant space.
For the best experience, visit early in the morning around 6 AM when the palace is nearly empty. The golden light illuminating the ancient stones without crowds creates an almost magical atmosphere perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Climb the Cathedral of St. Domnius Bell Tower
Rising high above the palace complex, the Cathedral of St. Domnius and its bell tower offer the most spectacular views in Split. The cathedral itself holds a fascinating distinction as the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that remains in continuous use and largely unchanged since the 7th century.
Originally built as Emperor Diocletian’s mausoleum, the structure was later converted into a cathedral. The irony isn’t lost on historians: Diocletian persecuted Christians, yet his final resting place became a Christian place of worship.
The real reward, however, comes from climbing the bell tower. Be prepared for a workout. The ascent involves navigating steep, narrow, sometimes rickety stairs that aren’t for the faint of heart.
But once you reach the top, the panoramic views make every step worthwhile. From this vantage point, you’ll see Split’s terracotta rooftops spreading out toward the glittering Adriatic Sea, with islands dotting the horizon.
On one side, you’ll appreciate the intricate maze of the Old Town, while on the other, the modern city extends toward the mountains. Time your visit for late afternoon when the softer light creates beautiful shadows and textures across the cityscape.
Admission typically includes access to the cathedral treasury, crypt, and bell tower, making it one of the best value experiences among things to do in Split.
Wander Through Split’s Enchanting Old Town
Beyond the palace walls, Split’s Old Town continues to captivate with its labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and architectural layers spanning centuries. The beauty of the Old Town lies in its lived-in authenticity. This isn’t a preserved historical district; it’s a neighborhood where laundry hangs from medieval windows and locals chat with neighbors in doorways adorned with ancient stone carvings.
The architectural styles you’ll encounter tell the story of Split’s complex history. Romanesque and Gothic elements blend with Baroque flourishes and Venetian influences, creating a visual feast that reflects the region’s position as one of the most conquered places in history.
Getting lost here is part of the adventure. The twisting alleyways seem designed to disorient, but don’t worry. The compact nature of the Old Town means you’ll always find your way back to a recognizable landmark within minutes.
As you explore, keep an eye out for hidden gems tucked into unexpected corners. You might discover a tiny art studio in a back alley, a flowering courtyard hiding a charming restaurant, or murals adorning ancient walls.
Papalićeva Street, one of the Old Town’s most atmospheric lanes, was featured in Game of Thrones during the slave rebellion scenes. Today, it’s lined with boutiques and galleries perfect for browsing.
The Old Town truly comes alive in the evening when locals fill the squares and outdoor terraces. This is the perfect time to find a restaurant with outdoor seating, order some Dalmatian specialties, and watch the world go by.
Stroll Along the Riva Promenade
The Riva promenade is Split’s social heart, a palm-lined waterfront walkway where locals and visitors alike come to see and be seen. Stretching along the entire length of the Old Town, the Riva provides constant entertainment through its mix of street performers, outdoor cafés, and endless people-watching opportunities.
This is where things to do in split comes to relax. You’ll see families pushing strollers, couples holding hands, and groups of friends gathering for coffee or cocktails at the many establishments lining the promenade.
The Riva offers something special at every time of day. Mornings bring a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a coffee while watching ferries arrive and depart.
Afternoons see the promenade bustling with activity as day-trippers and cruise passengers explore the waterfront. But the golden hour before sunset is when the Riva truly shines.
As the sun begins its descent toward the Adriatic, the entire promenade bathes in warm, honey-colored light. This is the time to grab a drink at one of the waterfront bars, sit on the short stone wall separating the promenade from the sea, and watch one of the best free shows in things to do in split: the spectacular Croatian sunset.
The view across the harbor reveals ferries gliding across the water, distant islands creating dramatic silhouettes, and the mountains beyond adding depth to the scene. It’s no wonder sunset on the Riva ranks among the most beloved things to do in Split for both visitors and locals.
Rub the Toe of Gregory of Nin for Good Luck
Just outside the Golden Gate, you’ll find one of Split’s most beloved landmarks: the massive bronze statue of Gregory of Nin. Created by renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, this imposing 28-foot statue honors a 10th-century bishop who championed the use of Croatian language in religious services instead of Latin.
Gregory of Nin holds a special place in Croatian hearts as a defender of national identity. But visitors know him for a different reason: his shiny big toe.
Legend says that rubbing Gregory’s toe brings good luck and ensures your return to things to do in split. Whether you believe in superstition or not, the ritual has become such a tradition that the toe has been polished to a brilliant shine from thousands of hopeful touches.
The statue’s location just outside the Golden Gate makes it a natural first or last stop when exploring Diocletian’s Palace. The small park surrounding Gregory provides a peaceful spot to rest in the shade, making it perfect for a picnic or simply taking a break from sightseeing.
During World War II, legend holds that locals saved the statue from being melted down for munitions by cutting it into three pieces and hiding them. While historians debate whether this story is entirely accurate, Gregory of Nin did survive the war and now stands as a symbol of Split’s resilience and ingenuity.
Hike Up Marjan Hill for Stunning Views
When the ancient streets start feeling a bit too close, head west from the Old Town to Marjan Hill, Split’s green lung. This massive forested park offers a refreshing escape into nature without ever leaving the city.
The climb to the viewpoint begins with approximately 300 steps right next to Pizzeria Bokamorra. Don’t let the number intimidate you; the ascent takes only 10-15 minutes at a moderate pace, and the reward is absolutely worth the effort.
From the first main viewpoint, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramas across Split’s red rooftops, the glittering Adriatic, and the surrounding islands. A large cross marks this spot, creating a dramatic focal point for photographs, especially at sunset.
But Marjan Hill offers far more than just one viewpoint. The park encompasses 3.5 kilometers of forested peninsula crisscrossed with walking and cycling trails.
As you venture deeper into the park, you’ll discover hidden chapels dating back to medieval times, including the charming Oratory of St. Cyril tucked behind the picturesque Church of St. Jerome. The hermitage offers stunning views that make you understand why someone might choose contemplative life in such a beautiful setting.
The park also features a small zoo, botanical garden, and numerous lookout points, each offering a different perspective on things to do in split and its surroundings. The shaded pine forests provide welcome relief on hot summer days, making this one of the most refreshing things to do in Split when temperatures soar.
For the best experience, bring water and wear comfortable shoes. The stone paths can be uneven in places, and you’ll want to explore beyond just the first viewpoint. If you’re lucky, you might encounter some of the resident cats who have claimed the best scenic spots for themselves.
Experience Froggyland’s Quirky Charm
Among all the things to do in Split, Froggyland stands out as perhaps the most unusual. This bizarre little museum showcases the work of Ferenc Mere, a Hungarian taxidermist who created elaborate dioramas featuring over 500 stuffed frogs engaged in human activities.
Sounds strange? It absolutely is. And that’s exactly what makes it so delightful.
Inside this tiny museum, you’ll discover frogs attending school, teaching class, playing instruments in an orchestra, running a barbershop, and even getting married. The attention to detail in each miniature scene is remarkable, with tiny props and costumes creating surprisingly complex narratives.
Photography isn’t permitted inside, which actually enhances the experience. Without screens between you and the displays, you can fully appreciate the craftsmanship and whimsy of each diorama.
Froggyland won’t take more than 20-30 minutes to explore, but it’s guaranteed to be one of the most memorable and conversation-worthy experiences of your trip. It’s perfect for a quick, air-conditioned break from sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with children or simply appreciate the wonderfully weird.
The museum’s central location makes it easy to pop in while exploring the Old Town. Don’t let the unusual concept deter you; this quirky attraction perfectly captures Split’s ability to surprise and delight at every turn.
Discover Split at Night with an Evening Walking Tour
Split transforms after dark, when floodlights illuminate ancient stones and the crowds thin out, revealing a more intimate side of the city. One of the best things to do in Split for history enthusiasts is joining an evening walking tour that explores the city’s secrets and legends under lamplight.
The “Soul of Old Split” tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s history, blending historical facts with local legends and folklore. Following your guide’s lantern through shadowy alleyways and hidden corners creates an almost theatrical experience that brings Split’s past to life.
These evening tours often include access to areas that are crowded during the day, allowing you to appreciate the architecture and atmosphere without the usual tourist bustle. Your guide will share stories that don’t make it into standard history books, local superstitions, and the subtle details you might otherwise miss.
The cooler evening temperatures also make walking more comfortable, especially during the summer months when daytime heat can be intense. Plus, seeing the palace and Old Town illuminated at night reveals a completely different character than their daytime appearance.
Most evening tours last 1.5 to 2 hours and are led by local historians or longtime residents who know the city intimately. Their insider perspectives and passionate storytelling add depth to your understanding of Split’s complex history.
Venture to Klis Fortress
Perched on a limestone cliff about 20 minutes from Split, Klis Fortress offers spectacular views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s military history. This defensive stronghold has witnessed countless battles over the centuries, changing hands between Romans, Croatians, Turks, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians.
The fortress’s strategic location becomes immediately apparent as you climb through its fortifications. From the heights, you can see things to do in split spread out below, the Adriatic glittering beyond, and the surrounding mountains creating a natural barrier. This commanding position made Klis an invaluable defensive asset for whoever controlled it.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize Klis as the city of Meereen, where several memorable scenes were filmed. But even without the pop culture connection, the fortress deserves a visit for its own merits.
The walls and towers have been partially restored, allowing you to explore relatively freely. Wear good shoes, as the deliberately uneven stone pavement (designed to slow invading armies) can be tricky to navigate.
A small museum on the grounds provides context for the fortress’s complex history, with displays covering the various occupying forces and significant battles fought here. Unfortunately, signage is limited, so hiring a guide or joining a tour helps bring the site’s stories to life.
The fortress stays relatively quiet compared to Split’s main attractions, making it an excellent escape from crowds while still offering substantial historical interest. The views alone make the trip worthwhile, especially during golden hour when the warm light paints the landscape in gorgeous hues.
You can reach Klis by public bus, taxi, or Uber. If you’re visiting independently, budget about 2-3 hours for the round trip including exploration time.
Indulge in Split’s Culinary Scene
One of the most delicious things to do in Split is exploring its vibrant food scene. The city’s cuisine reflects its coastal location and complex cultural heritage, blending Croatian traditions with Italian, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences.
Start your culinary adventure at the Green Market (Pazar), which operates daily except Sundays. For the full experience, visit on Saturday morning when the market bursts with local farmers selling fresh produce, olive oil, cheeses, and seasonal specialties.
Bring cash and a willingness to practice your Croatian phrases (or use a translation app), as many vendors are older locals who appreciate the effort. The colorful displays of tomatoes, peppers, figs, and other seasonal bounty make the market as much a feast for the eyes as for the stomach.
For traditional Dalmatian cuisine, try pašticada, a beloved local dish of beef slow-cooked in wine, prunes, and spices, typically served over homemade gnocchi. The tender meat practically melts in your mouth, and the rich sauce captures the essence of Dalmatian home cooking.
Black risotto, made with cuttlefish and its ink, is another local specialty that seafood lovers shouldn’t miss. The striking black color comes from the squid ink, which also imparts a distinctive briny flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh Adriatic seafood.
Pizza enthusiasts must visit Pizzeria Bokamorra, where the owners trained in Naples before bringing their skills back to Split. The Neapolitan-style pizzas feature thin bases and soft, pillowy crusts, with toppings ranging from classic margherita to inventive combinations like black truffle and white chocolate dessert pizzas.
Don’t overlook Split’s exceptional ice cream. Luka Ice Cream & Cakes, located in a quiet courtyard near the Croatian National Theatre, serves generous portions of creative flavors like lavender and pistachio. The locals consider it the best in the city, and after one taste, you’ll understand why.
For wine enthusiasts, Croatian wines deserve serious attention. The region produces excellent varieties, particularly Plavac Mali, a robust red wine related to Zinfandel, and Pošip, a crisp white perfect for hot afternoons.
Many restaurants offer local wines by the glass, allowing you to sample different varieties. Better yet, join a wine tasting tour that visits local wineries in the hills surrounding things to do in split, where you can learn about Croatian viticulture while enjoying stunning countryside views.
Marvel Library Jazz Bar offers a unique experience combining Croatian wine with live jazz in an atmospheric setting that was once the home of Croatia’s literary founder. The floor dates back to Diocletian’s Palace, and the menu is presented as a book filled with literary quotes. It’s one of the most hyped spots in things to do in split, and deservedly so.
Relax on Split’s Beaches
While Split may be famous for history and culture, it’s also a beach destination offering plenty of spots to swim and sunbathe along the Adriatic coast. The most popular beach is Bačvice, located just a short walk east from the Old Town.
This sandy beach gets packed during summer but offers the advantage of easy accessibility and numerous amenities including cafés, restaurants, and changing facilities. Bačvice is also famous for picigin, a traditional Dalmatian ball game played in shallow water, which you’ll often see locals playing here.
For a less crowded beach experience, head to Kasjuni Beach on the southern side of Marjan Hill. This pebble beach requires a bit more effort to reach (you can take a tourist train or Uber from the city center), but you’ll be rewarded with clearer water, more space, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The beach has a small bar where you can grab refreshments, though prices reflect the more remote location.
Other options include Žnjan Beach, another popular spot with both concrete platforms and pebble areas, and the small beaches at the base of Marjan Hill, which offer shade from pine trees and easy access to hiking trails.
Water shoes are recommended for most things to do in split beaches, as many feature rocks or pebbles rather than sand. The Adriatic water stays pleasantly cool even in summer, providing refreshing relief from the heat.
Don’t expect pristine, empty stretches of coastline. Split’s beaches can get crowded, especially in July and August. However, the combination of beautiful clear water, mountain backdrops, and convenient city access makes beach time one of the essential things to do in Split during warm weather.
Go Island Hopping in the Adriatic
Split’s position on the Dalmatian coast makes it the perfect launching point for exploring Croatia’s stunning islands. The city’s ferry terminal connects to several islands, and numerous tour operators offer day trips that showcase the best of the Adriatic.
The most popular island day trip visits Hvar, Vis, and several smaller islands, often including a stop at the famous Blue Cave on Biševo island. The Blue Cave creates a mesmerizing effect when sunlight enters through an underwater opening, illuminating the water in an otherworldly electric blue glow.
These boat tours typically include multiple swimming stops at secluded bays and beaches, lunch opportunities in charming island villages, and plenty of photo opportunities as you cruise past dramatic coastlines and hidden coves.
The island of Hvar offers glamorous nightlife, historic architecture, and lavender fields, while Vis remains more rugged and authentic with its fishing village charm and wartime history. Each island has its own character and attractions worth exploring.
If you prefer a more independent approach, regular ferries connect Split to nearby islands like Brač (home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach), Hvar, Korčula, and Vis.
Taking the ferry allows you more time to explore at your own pace rather than following a tour schedule. The ferry ride itself offers beautiful views and a glimpse of Croatian island life.
When booking a boat tour, pay attention to the vessel type. Speedboats cover more ground but can be less comfortable in rough seas, while larger vessels offer more stability and amenities but move slower. Small group tours tend to provide a better experience than large tourist boats packed with people.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water shoes, and a light jacket even in summer, as it can get cool on the water. Most importantly, don’t forget your camera and waterproof phone case to capture the stunning scenery.
Explore Underground at the Palace Cellars
Beneath Diocletian’s Palace lies an extensive network of subterranean chambers that once supported the emperor’s private apartments above. These basement rooms served both structural and practical purposes, providing storage and service areas while creating a solid foundation for the palatial rooms overhead.
Today, these atmospheric vaulted cellars offer one of the most fascinating things to do in Split for history enthusiasts. The cool, dimly lit spaces transport you back 1,700 years, allowing you to imagine the servants who once worked in these chambers serving the retired emperor above.
The cellars occasionally host art exhibitions and cultural events, adding contemporary elements to the ancient space. The contrast between modern installations and Roman architecture creates thought-provoking juxtapositions.
You can enter the cellars either through the Bronze Gate along the Riva or via stairs from the Peristyle. While relatively small compared to the palace above, exploring these underground chambers provides valuable context for understanding how the entire complex functioned.
The preservation of these cellars is remarkable, especially considering they were used as a dumping ground for centuries before being excavated and restored. Walking through them today, it’s hard to believe they were once filled with debris and forgotten.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize these spaces as Daenerys’ dragon-keeping quarters and parts of her throne room. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply appreciate ancient architecture, the palace cellars deserve a place on your things to do in split itinerary.
Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park
Krka National Park ranks among Croatia’s most spectacular natural attractions, and while Plitvice Lakes may be more famous, Krka offers equally stunning waterfalls at a much more manageable distance from Split.
The park’s centerpiece is Skradinski Buk, a series of 17 cascading waterfalls tumbling over limestone barriers into turquoise pools. Wooden walkways and bridges guide you through the park, providing up-close views of the rushing water and surrounding forest.
While swimming directly beneath the main waterfalls is no longer permitted (to protect the ecosystem), designated swimming areas near Roški Slap still allow visitors to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water.
Beyond the waterfalls, Krka features an Ethno Village showcasing traditional Dalmatian life, historic watermills, and even one of the world’s first hydroelectric plants, which opened just two days after Niagara Falls’ plant.
Most tour packages from Split include round-trip transportation, park entrance, and often additional stops at the charming town of Skradin (where you can swim and explore a medieval fortress) and a local winery for tastings of regional wines and olive oils.
The entire day trip typically lasts 8-10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the park without feeling rushed. Bring swimwear, water shoes, sunscreen, and a hat, as summer temperatures can be intense.
Krka gets extremely crowded during peak season (July and August), so consider visiting in shoulder months like May, June, or September for a more peaceful experience with equally beautiful conditions.
Visit Salona’s Roman Ruins
Before Diocletian’s Palace, the nearby city of Salona was the region’s power center. This ancient Roman settlement served as the capital of Dalmatia, with a population that may have reached 60,000 people at its height.
When the Avars and Slavs invaded in the 7th century, Salona’s residents fled to the safety of Diocletian’s Palace walls, abandoning their city to history. Today, the extensive ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman provincial life.
Unlike the palace in things to do in split, Salona remains a traditional archaeological site with excavated remains of forums, amphitheaters, early Christian basilicas, and city walls spread across a large area. A small museum provides context for what you’re seeing, though signage is limited.
The ruins include some of the earliest Christian sites in the region, reflecting Salona’s important role in the spread of Christianity before Diocletian’s persecution. The contrast between these Christian remains and the palace built by the emperor who martyred so many Christians adds historical irony to your visit.
You can reach Salona easily by public bus from things to do in split, though joining a guided tour helps bring the site to life since there’s minimal interpretation for independent visitors. The ruins receive far fewer visitors than Split’s attractions, creating a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.
Budget at least 2-3 hours to explore Salona properly. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and don’t forget sunscreen, as much of the site lacks shade. The experience offers valuable historical context that enhances your understanding of Split’s origins and importance.
Experience Sunset from the West Bank
While the Riva promenade offers beautiful sunset views, heading to the West Bank beyond the Old Town provides an even more spectacular vantage point. This less touristy area includes beaches like Little Sheeps Beach (Playa Mali Ovčica) and the Sustipan park, both offering unobstructed views across the Adriatic.
The West Bank feels more local and relaxed than the bustling Riva. Grab a drink from one of the beach bars, or bring your own beverage (technically illegal but widely practiced), and settle in to watch the sun sink toward the water.
Unlike the Riva, where you watch the sunset over the city, here you get the full effect of the sun dropping into the Adriatic, painting the sky in brilliant oranges, pinks, and purples while casting golden light across the rippling water.
Sustipan park offers a peaceful retreat with historic roots extending back to a medieval Benedictine monastery. The park’s waterfront location provides multiple spots to sit and enjoy the views, whether on benches, grassy areas, or rocky outcrops at the water’s edge.
A small church, Crkva sv. Stjepana, sits within the park grounds, adding to the serene atmosphere. During summer months, the park sometimes hosts outdoor concerts and cultural events, making it worth checking local listings.
For sunset seekers, arriving about 30 minutes before sunset gives you time to find your perfect spot and watch the light gradually transform the landscape. This peaceful ritual ranks among the most memorable free things to do in Split.
Enjoy Split’s Nightlife and Evening Entertainment
When the sun goes down, Split reveals yet another personality. The city’s nightlife caters to various tastes, from sophisticated wine bars to high-energy clubs, with most venues concentrated in and around the Old Town.
Start your evening with aperitivo along the Riva, where most bars offer happy hour specials and the perfect people-watching vantage points. As night falls, the illuminated palace creates a dramatic backdrop for evening drinks.
For cocktails in a sophisticated setting, head to one of the Old Town’s many wine bars or cocktail lounges tucked into ancient stone buildings. Marvel’s Library Jazz Bar, mentioned earlier, offers live jazz in an intimate setting perfect for conversation and Croatian wines.
If you’re interested in seeing a Hajduk things to do in split football match, the experience goes beyond just the game. The city’s passion for their team (founded in 1911) creates an electric atmosphere.
Arrive early and head to Imperium Caesar square where fans gather to pregame, sing songs, and build excitement before heading to the stadium. The displays of loyalty and passion give you insight into an important part of Split’s local culture.
The bars and clubs behind the Riva stay open late, with DJs spinning everything from Croatian pop to international hits. In summer, beach clubs along the coast host parties that continue until dawn, with the sound of waves providing a natural soundtrack.
For a more cultural evening, check whether the Croatian National Theatre has any performances during your visit. The beautiful building itself is worth seeing, and catching a show provides insight into Croatia’s artistic traditions.
Discover Trogir on a Half-Day Trip
Just 30 minutes from Split, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Trogir makes an excellent half-day excursion. This small island town features one of the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complexes in Central Europe, with narrow streets and medieval architecture creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Trogir’s compact size means you can explore the entire Old Town in a few hours, though you’ll want to take your time admiring the intricate stone carvings, hidden courtyards, and waterfront views. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence features a remarkable portal considered a masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic sculpture.
Unlike Split’s constant bustle, Trogir maintains a quieter, more intimate pace. In the shoulder seasons, you might find yourself wandering nearly empty streets, allowing peaceful contemplation of medieval architecture without crowds.
The town occupies an island connected to the mainland and larger Čiovo Island by bridges, creating picturesque waterfront promenades on multiple sides. Cafés and restaurants line the harbor where you can watch boats coming and going while enjoying local specialties.
You can reach Trogir by public bus, making it one of the easiest and most affordable day trips from Split. The journey takes you along the coast, offering views of the Adriatic and glimpses of Dalmatian life in smaller communities.
Trogir works particularly well as a half-day trip, allowing you to explore the town in the morning or afternoon while still having time for other Split activities. Consider pairing it with a beach visit or sunset viewing back in things to do in split for a perfectly balanced day.
Experience Traditional Markets and Local Life
To see Split beyond its tourist facade, spend time in places where locals go about their daily lives. The Green Market has already been mentioned, but Split offers other opportunities to witness authentic Croatian culture.
Early mornings reveal a different side of the city, before tour groups arrive and souvenir shops open. Watch locals buying fresh bread from small bakeries like Kruščić Bakery, where traditional Croatian pastries are made using old recipes and natural ingredients.
The fish market behind the Riva operates daily, bringing in the morning’s catch from local fishermen. The display of fresh seafood gives you an appreciation for the Mediterranean diet that defines Dalmatian cuisine, and watching locals carefully select their dinner ingredients provides entertainment in itself.
Split’s neighborhood outside the Old Town, Veli Varoš, offers another window into local life. This charming residential area features narrow streets climbing the hillside toward Marjan, with medieval churches tucked between houses and residents going about their routines.
Getting lost in Veli Varoš on a quiet Sunday morning provides a peaceful contrast to the Old Town’s energy. You’ll discover neighborhood shrines, hanging laundry creating colorful displays against stone walls, and corner cafés serving espresso to locals reading newspapers.
Coffee culture is serious business in Croatia, and observing how locals linger over their cappuccino or macchiato, often for an hour or more while catching up with friends, reveals the Mediterranean approach to life that values conversation and connection over efficiency.
These glimpses of daily life remind you that things to do in split isn’t just a tourist destination but a living city with residents who have built their lives among ancient stones, creating a unique blend of history and contemporary culture.
Things to Do in Split on a Rainy Day
Croatian coastal weather is generally reliable, but occasional rainy days do occur, particularly during spring and fall. Fortunately, Split offers plenty of indoor and covered activities to fill a gray day.
Start with the historical sites that include indoor components: the Cathedral treasury and museum, the palace cellars, and various small museums throughout the Old Town. These attractions take on a different character when rain patters on ancient stones outside.
Diocletian’s Dream, the VR experience, makes an excellent rainy day activity. Spending 20 minutes virtually exploring the palace as it appeared in its prime provides fascinating historical context while keeping you dry and entertained.
The Archaeological Museum, Croatia’s oldest, houses fascinating collections of ancient artifacts from Salona and the Roman period, with most displays protected indoors. The covered courtyard features a lapidarium of sculpture and funerary monuments that you can explore even in light rain.
Froggyland’s quirky frog dioramas provide dry entertainment and guaranteed smiles regardless of weather. The museum’s small size actually works in its favor on rainy days when you don’t want to commit to long indoor visits.
Croatian National Theatre sometimes offers matinee performances, and checking their schedule might reward you with an opera, ballet, or play that fills a rainy afternoon with culture.
Split’s excellent coffee shops make ideal rainy day refuges. Specialty coffee establishments like D16 Coffee, kava2, or Tinel offer comfortable seating, excellent coffee, and welcoming atmospheres perfect for reading, working, or simply watching rain through the windows while staying warm and caffeinated.
Shopping in the Old Town’s covered arcades and boutiques provides another weather-proof activity. Browse Croatian design items, local olive oils and wines, art galleries, and craft shops without worrying about getting soaked.
Finally, rainy days offer the perfect excuse to indulge in a long, leisurely lunch at one of Split’s excellent restaurants. Croatian hospitality welcomes guests who want to linger over multiple courses, local wine, and good conversation while waiting for the weather to clear.
Amazing Things to Do in Split at Night
Split at night reveals a completely different atmosphere than daytime sightseeing. The illuminated ancient walls, quieter streets, and shift in energy create new opportunities for memorable experiences.
Night photography enthusiasts will find Split particularly rewarding after dark when floodlights dramatically illuminate the palace walls and cathedral bell tower. The contrast between ancient stone and modern lighting, reflections in the polished Peristyle marble, and atmospheric alleyways create stunning compositions.
The Riva takes on a romantic quality at night when the crowds thin and couples stroll arm-in-arm along the waterfront. The twinkling lights reflecting off the dark water, distant island silhouettes, and mountain shadows create an enchanting backdrop.
Live music venues throughout the Old Town host performances ranging from classical to contemporary. In summer, outdoor concerts frequently take place in various squares and courtyards, with the ancient acoustics adding special qualities to the performances.
If you’re visiting during football season, experiencing the pre-match energy and post-match celebrations (or commiserations) provides insight into local passion. The streets fill with fans wearing red and blue, singing songs, and displaying the intense loyalty that defines Hajduk Split supporters.
For something more contemplative, visiting the illuminated Marjan Hill viewpoint at night rewards the climb with Split’s city lights spreading below like a constellation of stars mirroring the night sky above. The darkness hides the daytime details, allowing you to focus on the glowing patterns and the sound of the sea far below.
Late-night gelato from Luka Ice Cream or another quality spot makes a perfect conclusion to evening wanderings
Conclusion
Split is a city where history, nature, and local life come together beautifully. From ancient Roman ruins to relaxing beaches and island adventures, every corner has something special to offer. Whether you’re exploring Diocletian’s Palace, hiking up Marjan Hill, or watching the sunset on the Riva, Split will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
This city is not just about sights, it’s about experiences. Enjoy local food, meet friendly people, and feel the mix of old and new that makes Split unique. Even a simple walk through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time while staying connected to the present.
No matter how long you stay, things to do in split will capture your heart. Its warm atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and rich culture make it one of the best places to visit in Croatia. You’ll leave already planning your next trip back.
FAQs
1. What is Split best known for?
Split is famous for Diocletian’s Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman palace that forms the heart of the city.
2. How many days do I need in Split?
Spend at least 2–3 days to explore the main sights, but a week lets you enjoy nearby islands and day trips.
3. Can you swim in Split?
Yes! Split has great beaches like Bačvice and Kasjuni where you can swim, sunbathe, and play picigin.
4. What’s the best time to visit Split?
May to September is ideal for warm weather and swimming, while April and October are great for fewer crowds.
5. Is Split good for budget travelers?
Absolutely. You can explore many free attractions, enjoy local food markets, and find affordable places to stay.
