Split, Croatia is a fantastic destination teeming with sights, history and delicious local cuisine. Creating the perfect Split Itinerary with the top attractions and activities allows travelers to truly experience the city. We are sharing the absolute best way to spend 3 Days in Split, Croatia!
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Create the Best Split, Croatia Itinerary
The very first time we stepped foot in Croatia, it was in the city of Split. Even cranky after a long red-eye flight, we were still smitten by the Dalmatian capital and its long waterfront Riva lined with cafes.
As Kris sipped a beer and watched the steady stream of ferries come and go, I slipped through a narrow passage to explore the remains of Diocletian’s Palace.
However, not having properly researched the Best Things To Do in Split, I only got a peek of the Split Old Town and completely missed the palace!
We only had a few hours in Split – as we were island-hopping down the coast to Dubrovnik. Still, our quick look was enough to whet our appetite. As we sailed away, we already knew we’d be back for a future visit.
In the years that have passed since our first glimpse of Split, we have returned many, many times. Whether traveling on our own for month-long stays or showing off the Essential Things To Do to our family and friends, we have become more enamored with each trip.
How Many Days in Split, Croatia?
We are fascinated by Split; it’s one of our favorite Cities in Croatia to Visit. In fact, on a recent trip to Split, we stayed for 10 weeks. Those visiting Croatia on vacation, however, will need to determine how many days to spend in Split.
While a Split highlights tour can be completed in a couple of hours, it would be a shame to breeze through like we did our first time. A longer stay allows visitors to really soak up the Dalmatian atmosphere.
Therefore, we believe three days in Split is perfect for an initial trip to the city. There is plenty of time for seeing sights, exploring neighborhoods and feasting on local Dalmatian fare. All of which is outlined in our plan for what to do in Split in 3 days!
Plan a Trip to Split, Croatia
With so many Split things to do, planning a trip can be overwhelming. While our Split Itinerary will certainly help you format your stay, our tips for Planning a Vacation to Croatia and advice for Visiting Europe will also be useful.
Whether you are staying for three hours, three days or three weeks in Split, organization is key. Keep all of the details sorted with our printable Travel Planner.
Best Split Itinerary: 3 Days in Split, Croatia
We’ve devised a 3-Day Split Itinerary that incorporates sea, mountains, history, and cuisine. But we warn you, a three day trip to Split will most likely leave you wanting more!
Recently, we were not only interested in revisiting our favorite spots, but also discovering new Split experiences. With the help of Adiona Travel, experts for local insight and adventures, we created this fabulous Split trip.
Save, Bookmark or Pin our Split Travel Guide for your vacation to Croatia!
DAY 1 – Must-See Split
After getting checked into your Split accommodation, get acquainted with the city by immersing yourself in the Old Town and strolling the waterfront Riva.
Take a Split Walking Tour
Get an introduction to Split with a tour of the Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace. The palace was built in the 4th century as a seaside residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian. Through the centuries, the interior has transformed into a maze of lanes and a cluster of apartments.
Learn how the palace and Split Old Town have survived and evolved. Also note how historical elements have been preserved amidst modernization. Squeeze down the narrowest street and marvel at the cozy courtyards. Tour Diocletian’s Palace and Old Town Split with a local or use our step-by-step Self-Guided Walking Tour.
Eat Lunch at Uje Oil Bar
While learning the history of Split, you have likely worked up an appetite! There are an incredible number of excellent Restaurants in Split. We recommend indulging in a few Split specialties at Uje Oil Bar. Featuring Dalmatian comfort food at its finest, Uje uses locally sourced ingredients and classic regional recipes. Naturally, the mid-day meal is best paired with a local Croatian wine!
Visit the Sights in Diocletian’s Palace
After your lunch worthy of an Emperor, explore more of the palace on your own. Some of the best places to see in Split are nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. While wandering the lanes inside the palace is free, there are a few ticketed sights that are not to be missed.
Start by visiting the palace basement. Here archaeologists have made many discoveries about the history of Diocletian’s Palace. Guests can also obtain a better understanding of the people of Split at the Ethnographic Museum.
Saint Dominus Cathedral – which was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Diocletian – is another must see Split sight. Of course, for the best view, we recommend climbing the Split church bell tower.
Walk the Split Riva to Sustipan Park
Emerge from the palace walls onto the spacious Split waterfront. The Riva, lined with cafes and palm trees, is an idyllic pedestrian promenade. Walk west along the water’s edge. Stroll by the old fisherman’s port and continue toward the Split Marina. Pass the cafes that line the water and stop to savor the spectacular vista from the wooden loungers.
Beyond the marina is Sustipan Park – a former graveyard with a small church, gazebo and broad views. Get a good look of the gorgeous Adriatic Sea in one direction and the sprawling city and towering mountains in the other.
Spend the Afternoon at the Mestrovic Gallery
Ivan Mestrovic is Croatia’s most famous sculpturer – and visitors can tour his famous estate in Split. Located on the Marjan Peninsula, the Mestrovic estate was built in the 1930s. The mansion was donated to the city of Split and has been redesigned to accommodate some of his most cherished works.
Eat Dinner in Diocletian’s Palace
Split dining varies from traditional cuisine to international fare. Being on the sea, fresh fish is a staple on most Split, Croatia restaurant menus. The delectable pasta dishes and pizza creations can be attributed to the Italian influence, but with a flare that is distinctly Dalmatian.
To get the best taste of Split, we recommend sampling both local and contemporary cuisine. Mazzgoon is one of the prime places to do it.
Located within the palace walls, Mazzgoon is a charming Split restaurant that proudly proclaims to be “Stubbornly Different”. Featuring modern Croatian cuisine along side classic Mediterranean dishes, their menu pleases an array of palettes!
Sip Some Split Drinks
After dinner, saunter through the stone streets of Diocletian’s Palace and the adjacent Old Town. Make your way to the bar rich Majstora Jurja and Petra Kruzica streets that run along the northern interior of the town walls.
Teak is our top choice for an after-dinner rakija (try the sweet Medica honey liquor). In the summer, tables take up every bit of outdoor space – and in winter, patrons cozy up inside the warm interior.
The Daltonist, Sanctuary, Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, NOOR and Leopold’s are some of our other favorite spots in Split to grab drinks. If you are looking for the backpacker scene, however, head for Charlie’s Bar.
DAY 2 – Split Like a Local
Although Split is a popular tourist destination, locals live, work and play in the center of Croatia’s second largest city. Join them at the markets, in nature and for a traditional meal!
Coffee at a Split Riva Café
Start your day like most Split locals and sip coffee in a café. There is no rush to the morning routine. The experience is a relaxing one meant to be savored. At the cafes on the Riva, you get a first-hand look at Split waking up. Children heading to school and parents off to work, alongside the parade of people disembarking from newly arrived cruise ships.
Pro Tip: Coffee in Croatian is kava. For black coffee, order an Americano. For something similar to a latte, order bijela kava.
Morning Shopping at Split Fresh Markets
In the heart of Split are two vibrant markets. At the Green Market, located outside the eastern Diocletian Palace walls, shoppers peruse tables piled high with in-season produce and flowers. Stalls line the perimeter selling meat (raw, dried and cooked), cheese and bread – making it a one-stop Split shopping experience.
The Fish Market can be found on the west side of the Old Town. Just follow the seagulls and the scent from the Riva up Marmontova Street. The day’s fresh catch is openly displayed and quickly sold.
Many vendors (at both markets) use traditional weight and balance scales. An old school method we haven’t seen used much outside of the Balkans.
Pro Tip: At the Split Green Market, gather simple items for a picnic lunch, like Dalmatian Prsut (dried ham), sheep’s cheese and seasonal fruit. Then, eat outdoors at the next stop on our Split Itinerary!
Hike Marjan Hill, Split
Many residents refer to Marjan Hill as the ‘Lungs of Split.’ In addition to the ample trails, the forested peninsula features spectacular viewpoints, secluded beaches and unique dwellings built into the cliffs.
Marjan Hill is most frequently accessed via the stairstep path up in the Varos neighborhood. Although slightly strenuous, explorers are rewarded at the top with breath-taking views of Split, the harbor and the surrounding mountains.
The main path through Marjan begins behind the viewpoint – with several routes breaking off along the way. Read our detailed tips – including how to get to the highest Split viewpoint – in our guide to Hiking Marjan Hill.
Swim at a Split, Croatia Beach
Split may be known as a harbor town, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t beaches for swimming! As a matter of fact, in the summer months, the Best Split Beaches are top attractions. Visitors can opt to swim at the beaches around the Marjan Peninsula – or go to the east side for the most famous Split beach.
Beaches East of the Split City Center
Within an easy stroll from the Old Town (and just beyond the Split bus terminal) is Bacvice, Split’s most popular beach. The shallow cove has a tiny sandy shore that is otherwise surrounded by concrete platforms and lively beach bars.
A quieter Split beach, Ovcice, is a short shoreline walk further to the east. Continuing past the Zenta Marina, there are even more Split beaches with varying facilities and different vibes. Go on a Split beach crawl and find the one that best suits your style!
Beaches to the West of Split
Around the base of Marjan Hill are several beach coves for swimming. Kasjuni Beach and Bene Beach are well-known spots. Bus #12, which originates at St. Frane Church on the west end of the Riva, transports beach-goers to both.
Beverages and Views from Matejuska
In the early evening, partake in a unique Split experience by joining locals and tourist at Matejuska. The old fisherman’s port and pier is a fun place to imbibe and take in the views of Split bathed in late afternoon sunshine. Alternatively, stop at a harborside cafe a bit further down along the water for a pre-dinner drink.
While there are no bars or cafes at Matejuska, visitors can grab beverages to go from Little Beer Shop. They sell a wide array of chilled drinks – including many Croatian Craft Brews.
It’s inconspicuously located between Restaurant Fife and Dujkin Dvor. There is also a clean public toilet – for a fee – at the base of the pier. Look past the rowdy locals who are likely just peeing in the harbor.
Savor Seafood at Konoba Fetivi
Fresh fish from the Adriatic Sea is a regional specialty – and an absolute must for your Split Itinerary! For dinner on your second night in the city, dine at Konoba Fetivi in the quaint Varos neighborhood. The eatery excels at creating simple fish dishes using traditional recipes.
In fact, the restaurant has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for their authentic Dalmatian meals. We recommend sharing an order of the Black Risotto with Cuttlefish as a starter. Then go all in with the Seafood Platter for Two.
Top Tip: Konoba Fetivi is incredibly popular – so make reservations in advance!
Wine at MoNIKas
Dalmatia is also well known for their wine production and there are many places in Split to get a taste of it. That said, if you want a formal introduction to the local wine, then stop by MoNIKas Wine Bar for a tasting or a glass.
If you are unsure what to order, ask the bartender for advice. They are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly!
DAY 3 – Take a Tour from Split, Croatia
Discover the region surrounding Split with a day trip and spend the evening having a traditional Dalmatian meal.
Go on a Day Trip from Split
One of the things that makes Split such a fantastic destination is its prime location that puts day tours within easy reach. We highlight all the prime excursions in our article, Best Day Trips from Split – but are sharing a few below to get you started!
Krka Waterfalls Day Trip
Croatia boasts two outstanding waterfall attractions – Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Of the two, Krka Waterfalls is closer and a day trip is often combined with other sightseeing adventures, like the city of Sibenik and the town of Skradin.
While Plitvice Lakes is the top nature destination in Croatia, it makes for a very long day trip from Split. Visitors can also organize a Split day trip to Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina to see the famous Stari Most bridge and the nearby Kravice Waterfalls.
Active Split Day Tour
Travelers looking for an adventure can take a tour to Omis for rafting, canyoning, ziplining or hiking. Other great active day trips from Split are trekking up Vidova Gora on the Island of Brac or in the mountains near Split, like Mosor or Kozjak.
Dalmatian Island Day Tour from Split
The best Dalmatian Islands are well-linked to Split. Visitors can easily get to Hvar (both Hvar Town or our favorite Stari Grad), Korcula or Vis for the day using the local ferries. In the summer, the top organized day trips are multi-island tours to the Blue Cave or Blue Lagoon.
Local Tour Agency in Split
Choosing a reliable, client-minded tour company, like Adiona Travel, can make all the difference in a tour from Split! We appreciated Emanuel and Iva’s attention to detail, local knowledge and honest advice. Don’t only take our word for it – check out their Trip Advisor Reviews. Please tell them that the JetSetting Fools say hello!
Indulge in Traditional Croatian Cuisine for Dinner
One of the best Dalmatia dishes is Peka. Often referred to as the meal ‘under the bell,’ Peka is a platter of meat (often lamb or octopus) and vegetables (potatoes, carrots and peppers) slow cooked over embers in a wood-fire stove.
Many of the traditional Split restaurants – called konobas – serve Peka, but we suggest seeking out Konoba Kod Joze. The intimate interior pairs perfectly with a memorable meal.
Pro Tip: Peka is a big meal that serves at least 4 people. So, make sure you have some friends to enjoy the experience with! Also, because it takes hours to cook Peka, it is necessary to visit or call ahead the day before to put in your order!
Additional Split, Croatia Travel Itineraries
We believe three days is ideal for a first-time trip to Split. It’s why we outlined a perfect 3-Day Split Itinerary! However, for those still deciding how long to spend in Split, we have compiled sample itineraries to help in your trip planning.
Split 1 Day Itinerary
Travelers limited to spending just one day in Split will want to make the most of their time! We recommend following Day 1 of our above Split trip plan. Consider adding an outdoor activity (like hiking Marjan Hill or swimming in the sea) if time allows.
4 Days Split Itinerary
Spending 4 days in Split allows visitors to discover even more of the city! Use our outline for what to do in Split for 3 days – then on the last day visit one (or more) of the museums or quirky sights (like Froggyland).
Pro Tip: Use our list of Split Things To Do to find activities that appeal to you!
Split Itinerary 7 Days
Spending 1 week in Split really allows visitors to get to know the city and region. Read our Croatia 1 Week Itinerary and see why we believe Split is an excellent base for a Dalmatian vacation!
Split and Hvar Itinerary
Hvar Island is just a ferry ride away from Split – so it’s easy to create a combined itinerary. When determining how many days in Split and Hvar Island, we recommend staying at least 3 days in Split and 2 days in Hvar Town.
That said, travelers who also want to stay in Stari Grad on Hvar Island could easily create a weeklong itinerary (Split for 3 days, Hvar Town for 2 days and Stari Grad for 2 days).
Zadar and Split Itinerary
The town of Zadar is well-connected to Split via bus. Staying in both cities really opens up options for great day trips. In fact, Plitvice Lakes is much easier to get to from Zadar than from Split. Read our tips for Exploring Zadar – and the Best Zadar Day Trips.
Split and Dubrovnik Itinerary
Dubrovnik and Split are the two top destinations on the Dalmatian Coast. Naturally, many travelers create an itinerary that includes both. To get between the two cities, travelers can use the local bus, private transport or ferry boats.
When traveling by ferry, tourists can also opt to overnight on one of the islands – like Korcula or Hvar – for an fun vacation of Croatian Island Hopping!
Tips For Your Trip to Split, Croatia
We have outlined the best itinerary for Split, but we have some more advice for your holiday to Croatia.
Getting To Split, Croatia
Well-connected by plane, boat and bus, Split is a logical stop on any trip to Croatia. The Split Airport (SPU) is served seasonally by major European airlines and low-cost carriers. Read our advice for Finding Cheap Flights, then hop over to Skyscanner and book that trip!
There is a frequent Split airport shuttle bus that transports visitors to the main bus station in Split. Private transfers can also be booked through reliable agencies, like Adiona Travel.
For boat connections, check the Jadrolinija and Krilo ferry schedules for Split. If traveling overland, we use Bus Croatia and then reconfirm routes at the local station.
Where To Stay in Split
There are many places to stay in Split – from hotels and hostels to holiday rentals. On short trips we like to stay near the city center – like this convenient place offered by Adiona Travel. You can also check for other apartments or search for Split hotels on Booking.com.
What To Pack for Your Split, Croatia Trip
Now that you have your Split itinerary squared away, it’s time to think about what to pack. Before you travel to Croatia, make sure you have these items in your suitcase or backpack. Find more hacks on our dedicated Packing Page!
Comfortable Shoes
Don’t forget a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes with good soles. The stone streets of Split are slick! I am most comfortable in my travel sneakers and Kris prefers wearing trail shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Croatia trip. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We always travel with our Canon Rebel, which takes amazing photos and is one of the best budget cameras out there.
Croatia Guidebook and Map of Split
It’s easy to get turned around or lost in any new city! Be sure to have a good city map and/or guidebook prior to arriving in Croatia.
Day Bag
On long days of sightseeing, you will want to make sure you bring a versatile bag for your everyday essentials. We wear these small backpacks, but share reviews on other styles in our guide to the Best Day Packs for Travel.
Croatia Travel Insurance
No matter how well you plan, luggage gets lost, flights are delayed and travelers become ill. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Croatia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Visiting other Top Destinations in Croatia?
Excellent! Check out our 2 Week Croatia Itinerary. Also read our detailed Croatia Travel Guides so that you can easily plan your entire vacation!
- Sights To See in Dubrovnik
- Best Beaches and Top Viewpoints in Dubrovnik
- Things To Do in Zagreb
- What To See in Rovinj
- Things To Do in Makarska
- Visit Osijek, Croatia
- Going To Mt Srd, Dubrovnik
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