Split, Croatia completely stole my heart. Nestled along the dazzling Dalmatian Coast, it’s one of those rare places that blends ancient history with chill beach vibes—and somehow makes it all feel effortless. If you’re planning a trip, let me walk you through the best things to do in Split Croatia, based on my own unforgettable adventures.
Why I Fell in Love with Split
I didn’t expect to be enchanted so quickly, but the second I stepped onto the cobblestone streets near the harbor, I was hooked. Split has this gorgeous blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, Roman history, and breezy modern energy. Think fresh seafood, ancient stone walls, sailboats bobbing in turquoise water, and cafes filled with locals and travelers alike.
Exploring Diocletian’s Palace
Walking through Diocletian’s Palace is like stepping into a living museum. It’s the heart of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to shops, apartments, wine bars, and even a cathedral—all tucked within the walls of a 4th-century Roman emperor’s palace.
Hidden Corners You Shouldn’t Miss
- The underground cellars (perfect for photos!)
- The Peristyle courtyard—especially magical at sunset
- The tiny Temple of Jupiter tucked behind the cathedral
Wandering aimlessly here was one of my favorite things to do in Split Croatia. Every turn led to something beautiful.
Strolling the Riva Promenade
This is where the city comes alive. The Riva is the harborfront walkway lined with palm trees, cafes, and locals sipping espresso. I’d grab a gelato and just people-watch for hours. At night, the Riva glows with lights and live music spills out of every corner.
Climbing Marjan Hill for Epic Views
If you’re craving a little nature, Marjan Hill is the place. I packed a picnic, wore comfy shoes, and followed the steps just west of Old Town. The view at the top? Breathtaking. You can see the entire harbor and even a few islands.
My Favorite Scenic Spots Up There
- Telegrin Peak for full panoramic shots
- The pine-scented trails—so relaxing
- A small chapel overlooking the sea (hello, serenity!)
Day Trip to the Blue Lagoon and Trogir
This was my splurge day, and it was 100% worth it. I booked a half-day boat tour that took me to the Blue Lagoon for snorkeling and then on to Trogir, a medieval island town that looks straight out of a fairytale.
🌊 I booked this one and loved it:
🛥️ Half-Day Blue Lagoon & Beach Bar Tour via Viator → Book here
If you’ve got more time, try this full-day tour with lunch:
🛥️ Blue Lagoon & Shipwreck Adventure → Book here
Sunbathing at Bacvice Beach
This is the locals’ favorite for a reason. Bacvice Beach is sandy (rare in Croatia!), super shallow, and right near town. I rented a lounger, grabbed a cold drink, and watched kids play picigin—a wild local game involving a small ball and acrobatics.
Beach Bars & Where to Get Coffee Nearby
Check out Žbirac Café, which sits right above the beach. It’s perfect for a post-swim espresso or cocktail.
Discovering Split’s Markets
One of my must-dos anywhere I travel is visiting a local market. Split didn’t disappoint.
- Pazar Green Market had the juiciest peaches I’ve ever tasted.
- The fish market near Marmontova Street is a sensory overload (in a good way).
- I picked up lavender oil and olive wood souvenirs to bring home.
Eating My Way Through Split
Dalmatian cuisine is all about simple ingredients, grilled seafood, and strong wine. I ate my way through so many konobas (traditional taverns), and here were my faves:
Best Local Restaurants I Tried
- 🐟 Konoba Fetivi – family-run, authentic dishes like black risotto
- 🍝 Villa Spiza – tiny, charming, always packed (go early!)
- 🧀 Bokeria – fancier, but totally worth it for a wine-paired dinner
Museum-Hopping for Culture Buffs
I visited Split during a rainy afternoon and ducked into a few museums that truly surprised me.
- Split City Museum: Compact but rich with Roman and medieval artifacts
- Gallery of Fine Arts: A quiet space with modern and classic Croatian art
- Game of Thrones Museum: Yes, it’s touristy, but I had a blast seeing the filming props!
Nightlife in Split: From Chill to Wild
At night, Split’s vibe shifts into something festive but not overwhelming. You’ll find:
- Beach clubs near Bacvice
- Cocktail lounges tucked in the palace ruins
- Jazz bars and open-air DJ sets on summer nights
My favorite sunset cocktail spot? Roof 68 bar. Get there early and sip rosé while the sun dips below the Adriatic.
Where I Stayed: Best Areas to Book a Hotel or Airbnb
I stayed in the heart of Old Town and don’t regret it for a second. Everything was walkable—plus, I could pop back “home” during the day to freshen up.
🏨 Here are a few top-rated picks:
- Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia → Check availability
- Hotel Ambasador → See deals
- Cornaro Hotel → Book here
For budget options, try Bacvice or Meje neighborhoods. Just make sure it’s within walking distance of the center.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Split
- 💶 Currency: Croatia uses the euro
- 🚕 Taxis can be expensive—use Uber or walk!
- 📶 Wi-Fi is widely available (even at beaches!)
- 🗣️ Locals speak English well, but learning “hvala” (thank you) goes a long way
- 🚿 Bring water shoes for pebble beaches
What I Wish I Knew Before I Landed
- It gets hot. Like, really hot. Pack a hat and refillable water bottle.
- Bring slip-on shoes. You’ll be going in and out of boats often.
- Avoid eating near the Palace entrance—it’s a tourist trap zone.
Final Thoughts: Why Split Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
Split Croatia is equal parts laid-back and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re climbing Roman ruins, diving into turquoise water, or sipping coffee on a sunny patio, there’s something magical about this place. I’m already planning my return—and next time, I’m bringing even more friends along.
So if you’re asking yourself what the top things to do in Split Croatia are? Start with these—and let the adventure unfold.
