Day trips from Split are often the most memorable part of a Croatia Trip. Split is centrally located on the Dalmatian Coast – making it an ideal base and jumping off point for sea and land adventures.
From the historic Split Old Town, visitors can easily explore the Adriatic coastline, waterfalls, mountains and Croatian Islands. In fact, some of the Best Croatia Destinations can be reached on Split day trips.
Our site utilizes Affiliate Links. If you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Split Day Trips: DIY or Organized Tour?
As independent travelers, we prefer to plan our own day trips. Most of the Split excursions listed below can be done DIY-style using public transportation or a car rental.
That said, coordinating bus or ferry schedules can sometimes cut into precious vacation time and driving a car in a foreign country can induce unwanted stress.
Therefore, organized tours are sometimes an ideal option. Not only do they alleviate the hassle of planning the Split day trip specifics, but they’re fantastic for meeting fellow travelers!
Furthermore, a local guide not only coordinates the day, but they are also an excellent source of information regarding local customs, Croatian history and insider tips.
DIY and Guided Excursions in Split
For each of our recommended day trips from Split, Croatia, we indicate how you can plan the trip on your own. We also suggest a highly rated tour if available.
Want local advice and insight? We recommend going with Adiona Travel. They give honest recommendations and superb customer service. Seriously, it’s like spending the day with friends!
Read what other travelers have to say on TripAdvisor. If you do book with Adiona Travel, be sure to tell them we say hello!
See more with our guide to the Top Things To Do in Split!
Planning Your Vacation to Croatia
Deciding which Split day trips to take is just one facet of planning your holiday. We detail top tips and must-have advice in our Guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation.
Furthermore, when planning a big Trip to Europe, you need to stay organized. Use our Travel Planner for your vacation preparation!
17 Best Day Trips from Split, Croatia
Our list of day trips includes tours on land and boat trips from Split. There is also a mix of both full and half day tours from Split. We include a map of Split day trip destinations at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Split Travel Guide for your trip to Croatia!
#1 Split to Hvar Town
Hvar Town is a top destination in the Dalmatian Islands and is well-connected to Split. There are both scheduled catamarans and Split boat tours to Hvar.
On a Split to Hvar day trip, travelers can explore the cobblestone lanes of the ancient town, hike to fortresses for amazing views, walk to secluded beaches and cool off with cocktails at fun bars.
Read about more Things To Do in Hvar Town!
DIY Split to Hvar
Planning a self-guided day trip to Hvar Town from Split is fairly straight forward. Two ferry companies – Jadrolinija and Krilo – transport passengers between Split and Hvar Town.
The catamarans leave from the Split Port and dock right in the heart of Hvar Town. There are numerous daily departures that make it easy to plan a full day trip to Hvar from Split.
Organized Hvar Town Day Tours from Split
An organized day trip from Split to Hvar on a full day catamaran cruise can be an exciting excursion.
Guests will get a guided tour of top attractions and free time to explore on their own. Back onboard, you sail to the Pakleni Islands and navigate into deep coves to swim in the cool and ridiculously clear Adriatic Sea.
Additionally, snacks and free flowing drinks (including beer) are available on the Split catamaran tour throughout the day.
#2 Split to Krka Waterfalls
The Krka Waterfalls tour is one of the most popular excursions from Split. One of 8 national parks in Croatia, Krka NP features a series of tumbling waterfalls and a handful of historic sights.
The highlight of a Split to Krka National Park Tour is seeing the falls from the looping trail that crawls up the side of the waterfall to the top. The natural beauty is simply stunning.
Pro Tip: A Krka day trip from Split is not the only option, it’s possible from Zadar or Sibenik, too.
Read about our Day Trip to Krka Waterfalls.
DIY Krka Waterfalls from Split
As the Krka Waterfalls are one of the top places to visit from Split, there is direct public transportation for those who want to make the trip on their own.
The Split to Krka bus takes you to Skradin, where you buy tickets and board a boat to the entrance.
With a little finesse and a good bus schedule, DIY day trippers to Krka Waterfalls could add an additional stop in Sibenik.
The Dalmatian coastal town is home to a famous cathedral, several forts and a pleasant waterfront promenade.
Organized Krka Tour from Split
There are several options for a Krka waterfalls tour from Split. Not all include the same things, so it is important to read the details before booking anything.
In fact, some tours from Split to Krka National Park don’t include tickets, while others provide lunch and make an additional stop in Sibenik.
Be sure to understand what is included before booking your Krka National Park day trip from Split.
Krka One-Day Trip from Split Tour Options
This popular day trip to Krka from Split includes a stop in Sibenik and a cheese and wine tasting in Skradin. However, does not include the entrance fee.
One of the absolute best Croatia day trips from Split is this full day adventure to Krka. The small group tour visits Krka then stops for a homemade traditional lunch with wine.
Next, travel to a secret viewpoint and on to Sibenik for free time and exploration before heading back to Split.
#3 Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes is the most popular of all Croatia day trips! The park is nestled into a deep canyon and is comprised of 16 lakes that are interconnected by a series of tumbling waterfalls.
Wooden boardwalks route visitors through the park just above the water, allowing for a unique vantage point of the falls. The sight is simply breathtaking.
A Plitvice tour from Split is a full day adventure, which includes more time in transit than in the park…but it can be done.
You should also be aware that Plitvice Lakes NP requires quite a bit of trekking – so walking shoes are essential.
Furthermore, as the most popular day trip in Croatia (you can make the journey from both Zagreb and Zadar), the park gets incredibly congested during peak hours.
Plitvice Lakes tickets (and tours) must be purchased (or booked) at least 1 day in advance. Tickets are date and time specific.
Read the details of our Plitvice Winter Visit and Plitvice Lakes in the Autumn.
DIY Split to Plitvice Lakes Tour
The new ticketing procedures have made it a little more difficult for visitors using public transportation to plan their own day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Split.
Guests planning their own Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park trip will need to buy their tickets at least 1 day prior. We also recommend purchasing advance round-trip bus tickets.
2-Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Split
Alternatively, you can plan to spend one night in (or near) the park. There are a few hotels and many guesthouses within walking distance from the entrances.
If planning to spend a night, we would recommend arriving in the evening and then taking a full day at Plitvice before returning to Split.
Another great way to visit Plitvice is while traveling between two destinations – like Split and Zagreb. Arrive in the late afternoon, spend the night and be at the park first thing in the morning.
After your visit, hop on a bus and continue your onward journey. Agencies offer transport from Zagreb to Split with a stop in Plitvice, too. Find out more!
Organized Plitvice Lakes Tour from Split
Booking a day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes is probably a better option for those who want to maximize their time without an overnight stay.
Organized tours from Split to Plitvice Lakes involve a lot of time in transit (3 hours each direction) and only a few hours at the park. Still – for many – it’s the highlight of their Croatia trip!
#4 Blue Cave Tour from Split
Another Croatia natural wonder, the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island is one of the must see day trips from Split!
The cave, which is located in the Vis Archipelago, is naturally illuminated by sunlight hitting the sea floor and reflecting into the dark cave.
The small opening to the cave is accessed via small boats – and each boat only gets about 5 minutes inside the cave.
Because of the limited time inside the cave, most Blue Cave Split tours include multiple stops at other nearby attractions.
We visited the Blue Cave as part of our Croatia Island Hopping Cruise.
DIY Blue Cave Croatia Tour from Split
While it is theoretically possible to partially plan your own Split day trip to the Blue Cave, it most likely isn’t worth the effort needed to pull it off.
First, take the ferry from Split to Vis Town, travel across the island to Komiza (by bus, taxi, scooter or car), and join a Blue Cave Tour from Komiza. Then get back to Vis Town before the last ferry of the day departs back to Split!
In our opinion, there are simply too many variables and not enough time to plan a DIY day trip from Split. However, we do detail a day trip to Vis Island – not including the Blue Cave – later in the article.
Organized Blue Cave 5 Island Tour Split
The top Blue Cave Split Tour is the amazing Five Island Tour. The island hopping day trip from Split departs early in the morning.
The tour visits the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, Komiza and Stiniva Cove on Vis Island, the Green Cave on Ravnik Island, the Blue Lagoon on Budikovac Island and, finally, Hvar Town.
Fans of the movie Mamma Mia can opt for this themed Island Tour from Split that also includes the Blue Cave.
#5 Split to Mostar Day Trip
The historic town of Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina has an absolutely fascinating history – as both a melting pot and a divided city.
The Ottoman-built Old Town is steeped in tradition and the many mosque minarets create the skyline.
Just outside of Mostar is Medjugorje – the site of one of the most well-known Catholic pilgrimages. Throughout the region, nature flourishes and food is incredible and affordable.
The distance between the two cities is 95 miles, which takes about 2.5 hours by car and almost 4 hours by public bus.
However, what complicates a Split to Mostar Day Trip is the border crossing. Sometimes it’s fast…sometimes it is painfully slow.
Read our tips of Things To Do in Mostar for your trip!
DIY Day trips from Split to Bosnia
If attempting to do a DIY Split to Bosnia day trip, we recommend renting a car. While it is possible via bus, the schedule isn’t really ideal.
Plus, without a car, you will be limited to seeing the sights of Mostar – and won’t be able to venture to nearby attractions like the Blagaj Tekija Dervish Monastery, Medjugorje or Kravica Waterfalls.
Organized Split to Bosnia Day Trip
To truly enjoy a full day in and around Mostar we recommend joining a tour. Although the border crossing time will be out of their control, organized tours to Mostar are designed to feature the region’s highlights.
Top Tip: Going to Mostar is a great Day Trip from Dubrovnik, too! Read reviews for this Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip.
#6 Split to Brac Day Trip
Brac Island day trips from Split are a fantastic island escape. Brac features quaint towns, pleasant beaches and the tallest mountain on the Dalmatian Islands.
The most famous destination on the island of Brac is the town of Bol. More specifically, the iconic Bol beach: Zlatni Rat.
Also called the Golden Horn Beach, the spit of pebbly beach changes shape with the currents and is surrounded by stunning blue water.
Rising above Zlatni Rat Beach is Vidova Gora. Adventurous trekkers can hike to the top for stellar mountain views.
Two other towns you can see on a day trip to Brac are Supetar and Milna. Both have just a handful of sights, but offer a glimpse of local Croatian island life.
DIY Brac Day Trip from Split
During the peak summer months, catamarans allow passengers to plan their own day trip to Bol from Split. The times are ideal for a full day trip to Zlatni Rat from Split.
Year-round, Jadrolinija car ferries run between Split and Brac Island and dock at the town of Supetar. From here you can hop on a local bus to Bol or hire a friendly and knowledgeable local driver.
Of course, those with their own car can take it on the ferry (for an extra charge) and freely discover more of Brac Island.
Organized Day Trip from Split to Brac
Hop aboard a Split boat excursion to discover the island of Brac. On a Split to Bol Day Trip by boat, visitors sail directly to Zlatni Rat where they can swim at the world-famous Croatian beach.
The tour also includes two stops on Hvar and one at Solta Island on the return to Split. Get the details!
#7 Split Day Trip to Trogir
Just 15 miles west of Split is the UNESCO World Heritage town of Trogir. The historic settlement blankets a small island that is just a stone’s throw from the mainland and accessible via a short bridge.
The circumference can be walked in about 30 minutes, but most opt to wander the narrow cobblestone alleyways.
The 13th century Cathedral of St. Lawrence sits on the main square and its bell tower took more than 200 years to complete.
The southwestern sea-facing side of Trogir is marked by the stoic Kamerlengo Fortress, which can be visited for a small fee.
The Trogir Harbor is full of boats and the waterfront walkway is lined with cafes, making for a relaxing setting to enjoy a beverage or a meal.
DIY Trogir Day Trip from Split by Bus
Split day trips to Trogir are one of the easiest to plan on your own by bus. The station sits just steps from the bridge that connects Trogir to the mainland.
There are numerous Bus #37 Split to Trogir departures every day and a round-trip ticket only costs €8 when purchased at the station or through the app.
DIY Boat Trip from Split to Trogir
Trogir is one of the few places near Split that can be reached by bus or boat. The Bura Line Ferry transports passengers between Split and Trogir during the summer season.
Organized Trogir from Split, Croatia Excursions
Those interested in guided Trogir day trips can join a combo Split and Trogir Tour. The half day outing includes top Split attractions and a quick trip to Trogir. This tour is a great option for cruise ship passengers.
#8 Split to Vis Day Trip
The furthest inhabited island from the Croatia mainland, Vis receives far fewer travelers. Vis has two main towns, an ancient history and stunning natural beauty.
Many visitors go to Vis Island as part of the Blue Cave Tour. However, there are many reasons to spend an entire day on Vis (or longer).
Use our guide for Things To Do in Vis.
DIY Day Trip to Vis from Split
Visitors who want to plan their own Vis day trip from Split can do so using the Jadrolinija car ferry service.
Your time will be limited and without a car you will most likely only be able to visit Vis Town, not Komiza or other Vis Island destinations.
Organized Day Trip from Split to Vis
The most popular organized trips from Split to Vis are full-day, multi-island adventures that include the Blue Cave. Top options are the 5 Island Tour and a 6 Island Tour.
#9 Omis on a Split Day Trip
For adventurous travelers, Omis is one of the best day trips from Split. Located just 15 miles southeast of Split, Omis sits at the base of the Dinara Mountains where the Cetina River flows into the sea.
Top adrenaline activities in Omis are ziplining, rock climbing and river rafting. Hiking is also a popular activity and one of our favorite leads to the hill-topping Starigrad Fortress.
Looking for something a little more laid back? No worries. The compact and quaint Omis Old Town features narrow curving lanes, eight historic churches and nearby is a long stretch of sandy beach.
Read about all the Best Things To Do in Omis.
DIY Split Day Tour to Omis
Omis is one of the top places to visit near Split on a DIY trip because it’s incredibly easy to get to. The #60 Split-Omis bus runs every half hour between 7:30 and midnight.
The bus to Omis from Split does not depart from the main station but from the Bus Terminal Sukoisan (Map).
However, if you’re staying in Old Town Split, you can board the #60 bus just outside the Green Market (Pazar Stop).
Organized Split to Omis Tour
Organized tours from Split to Omis are adventure-based outings. One of the most popular is the Cetina River Rafting Tour.
The Zipline Experience, which consists of a route of 8 ziplines along – and across – the river valley, also gets rave reviews. Our friends who took the zipline tour said it was outstanding.
Canyoning is another one of the thrill-seeking day trips in Croatia – and Omis is the best place to do it.
#10 Klis Fortress, Split GOT Tour and Solin Roman Ruins
Calling all Game of Thrones fans! Many scenes from the HBO show were filmed in Split. The two most recognizable locations are Klis Fortress and Diocletian’s Palace, which are featured in Season 4 as the city of Meereen.
Klis Fortress
Split tourists who are not fans of the show can still enjoy Klis Fortress! The medieval stronghold overlooks the city and sits between Kozjak and Mosor Mountains.
Not only is the historically preserved fortress an interesting place to visit, but the views over the city and on to the sea are phenomenal.
Visit Solin
The birthplace of Emperor Diocletian and the Ancient Roman Capital of Dalmatia, Solin (or Salona, as it was called then) is one of the best places to visit near Split to see Roman Ruins.
A sprawling archaeological park – which pre-dates Diocletian’s Palace – features the remains of an amphitheater, Roman baths, religious structures and sarcophagi.
DIY Klis Fortress Visit plus Solin or GOT Tour in Split
The best way to get to Klis is on local Bus #22 that departs from the Croatian National Theater (HNK).
If you want to make a stop in Solin before going up to the fortress can take local Bus #1 from the HNK. Then pick up the #22 Bus from Solin to Klis Fortress.
Game of Thrones fans who want the inside scoop on film locations should join a Split Game of Thrones Tour that visits Klis Fortress and Diocletian’s Palace.
#11 Split to Sinj Day Trip
The town of Sinj is rarely listed as one of the must-see day trips from Split – which makes it the perfect place to escape the crowds.
The town’s great protector is the Madonna of Sinj, who according to legend, scared off the Turks in 1715. In her honor, a competition among the knights was born: the famed Alka Tournament.
The event takes place in August. Visitors to Sinj can learn about the history of the contest in the modern Alka Museum of Sinj.
Other sights worth seeing are the miraculous Lady of Sinj Church and the Old Town Sinj Fortress at the top of the hill.
Options for a Day Trip to Sinj from Split
Getting to Sinj from Split is as easy as hopping on a regional bus. The direct journey takes about 45 minutes. Inquire about tickets and schedules at the main Split bus station.
We are not aware of any group tours to Sinj. However, this private tour to Sinj includes a stop a Klis Fortress, as well!
#12 Mosor Mountain Hiking Trip
The Dinaric Mountain Range that provides the stunning backdrop to Split stretches south to Omis. The highest peak is Mosor, which stands at 4,400 feet.
The Mosor trails are fairly well marked, but can be a little confusing. We didn’t have a destination in mind – so we just followed the red-and-white painted trail markers that led up the mountainside.
Many trekkers go as far as the Umberto Girometta Mountain House, but we recommend hiking further up behind the restaurant for outstanding views.
DIY Trekking Trip to Mosor Mountain
Hikers can get to Mosor Mountain using Bus #28 from the Split Sukoisan Bus Terminal to Gornje Sitno. The small village has a donkey trail that leads up to the Mosor trailhead.
Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks and wear proper shoes that withstand a rocky trail. It is not advised to hike alone.
#13 Split to Stari Grad, Hvar Island
Hvar is one of the best islands to visit from Split – not only because of Hvar Town, but also for Stari Grad.
Tucked into a deep bay on the north side, Stari Grad is one of the oldest towns in Europe and feels a world away from the party in Hvar Town.
The UNESCO listed Stari Grad Plain – a 2,400-year-old agricultural plan – is a top attraction, but there are also secluded beaches, hills, caves and abandoned villages to explore.
Top Things To Do in Stari Grad, Hvar Island.
DIY Stari Grad, Hvar Island Trips from Split
A car ferry crosses from Split to Stari Grad at least three times daily year-round. Check the Jadrolinjia schedule for your visit.
The ferry port is actually 1.5 miles from Stari Grad, but is connected via a pleasant coastline path. A bus and taxis also meet the ferry for those who prefer not to walk.
Organized Stari Grad Tours
We do not know of any organized tours to Stari Grad. However, there are organized tours on Hvar Island that explore beyond Stari Grad.
These include a Wine Tasting Tour, a Lavender Fields Excursion and a Hvar Island Hidden Gems Tour.
Most tours depart from the Hvar Town Bus Station – but some operators offer optional pick up at the Stari Grad Port.
#14 Day Trip to Korcula Island from Split
There are many islands to visit from Split…and Korcula is one of the best. Korcula Town is a historic walled city boasting a grand gated entrance, a medieval church and (claims to be) the birthplace of Marco Polo.
There are two other towns on Korcula worth visiting: Vela Luka and Lumbarda. Vela Luka has a handful of sights, including a prehistoric cave dwelling and decorative tile art. Lumbarda is a quaint village with sandy beaches and locally produced Grk wine.
DIY Split to Korcula Day Trip
It is possible to reach both Korcula Town and Vela Luka on ferries from Split – but only the Korcula Town timetable makes it possible to do a day trip.
To go to Korcula Town, day trippers need to use the Krilo Catamaran, which has a schedule that times out well to enjoy a full day in the historic location.
The Jadrolinija car ferry goes to Vela Luka from Split, but the timetable leaves no time for exploration once there.
Most organized group tours to Korcula depart from Dubrovnik (like this one). However, it is possible to arrange a private tour to Korcula from Split with an agency.
Read our complete Guide To Korcula Island!
#15 Solta Day Trip and Blue Lagoon
Of all the islands around Split, Solta is the closest. While many overlook it, the island is a great day trip destination.
Tours from Split to Solta take you to the famous Blue Lagoon, but there are a few reasons to visit the towns on the island.
Top attractions for visitors to Solta are the Dalmatian food, Croatian wine, biking trails and secluded bays.
DIY Day trip to Solta from Split
Jadrolinija makes the trip from Split to the town of Rogac on Solta. To reach the top things to do in Solta, you will likely want a vehicle.
That said, one of the top-rated activities is biking on a self-guided tour. Another fun way to explore and learn more about Solta is on a Bee and Honey Tour that departs from the ferry port in Rogac.
Organized Day Boat Trips from Split to Solta
Several companies offer Split boat day trips to Solta Island and the Blue Lagoon. The most popular is the Three Island Tour. Another fun boat trip to Solta Island features snorkeling over a historic shipwreck.
You could join an all-inclusive boat tour from Split to two islands: Brac and Solta. The relaxing day trip allows time for swimming, sightseeing and taking in the beautiful scenery.
#16 Split to Dubrovnik Tour
Dubrovnik – the Pearl of the Adriatic – is Croatia’s most famous destination. The iconic walled city is filled with historic sights, churches and palaces.
Outside the walls, there are scenic Dubrovnik Beaches and mountaintop viewpoints. The city of Dubrovnik is a must-see on every Croatia Itinerary.
Read more on What To Do in Dubrovnik!
DIY Boat Trip from Split to Dubrovnik
The Krilo Ferry sails daily between Split and Dubrovnik in the high season – and allows just enough time for day trippers to get a peek at the top sights.
Time will definitely be limited, so head straight to the Old Town from the Dubrovnik Port via taxi or bus. Once at the Pile Gate, follow our Self-Guided Dubrovnik Walking Tour to the best sights.
Organized Split to Dubrovnik Day Tour
Day trips from Split to Dubrovnik begin with a 3-hour journey, which may include a border crossing (so don’t forget your passport).
Once in Dubrovnik, guests are invited on a guided walking tour and then have a few hours of free time to explore on their own.
#17 Split to Makarska Day Trip
Sitting under the gaze of Biokovo Mountain is the stylish Makarska Riviera. The city of Makarska features a lovely and historic Old Town.
Nearby is a long stretch of pebbly beach and a harbor filled with boats and lined with cafes. Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, hike up the mountain or swim in the sea.
Read about all the Best Things To Do in Makarska.
DIY Day Trip to Makarska
Split visitors who want to travel to Makarska for the day can sail aboard a catamaran (summer only) or take the regional bus year-round (it’s only an hour and 15 minutes ride).
Split Day Trips Map
Use this Google Map to plan out your Day Trips from Split!
More Tours in Split, Croatia
As much as we enjoy taking day trips from Split, Croatia, we love spending time in the city, too!
Split Walking Tour: Learn about the city on our Self-Guided Split Walk or join this highly-rated tour.
Split Food Tour: Let a guide lead the way to the Green Market and sample some of the delicacies along the way. Then, visit a traditional konoba to taste fresh seafood, regional pasta and local wine!
Split Kayaking Tour: Get a unique vantage point of the Split coastline on a kayaking tour around the Marjan Peninsula.
What You Will Need for your Split Day Trips
Whether you are planning to organize your own day trips or joining a guide for a Split excursion, there are a few things you will want to bring along.
Travel Camera
We believe Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world! Make sure you have a good camera to capture the sights.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes fantastic photos and is an ideal budget camera for beginner photographers.
Of course, on trips out to sea, you may want to invest in a GoPro, but we use a less expensive underwater camera.
Refillable Water Bottle
There is no need to buy water in Croatia – tap water is safe to drink. This collapsible water bottle is ideal for travelers!
Sun Protection
Whether touring cities by foot or on a boat, it’s important to protect your skin. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat.
Entertainment & Day Pack
Many of our recommended Split day trips require long road trips. While a guide will likely be chatting on the way there, it can sometimes be quiet and dark on the way home.
Don’t forget headphones and a great day bag to organize all your everyday essential travel items!
Croatia Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may help in unfortunate situations, like lost luggage or delayed flights. It can also be crucial for travelers who get sick or hurt abroad. Consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Looking for more tips of what to do in Split? Use our 3-Day Split Itinerary to find all the best beaches, restaurants and hikes!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
