Split, Croatia is a city that has beckoned us back more times than we can count. We love the palpable history, the brilliant blue sea and the relaxed pomalo vibe that is so characteristic of the Dalmatian Coast.
While we can go on and on and on about all the Best Things To Do in Split, there are some adventures that are not to be missed.
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These essential experiences in Split, Croatia are things we do on every single trip. If we are breezing through to other Croatian Destinations or staying for a few months, we make sure to tick these off before leaving town.
Unmissable Experiences in Split, Croatia
Whether you are visiting for just a few hours or staying in Split for 3 Days, you will want to make sure these activities are on your list of things to do!
#1 Stand in Awe of Diocletian’s Palace
The ancient Split palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is a must-see during your trip. The most iconic sight in the city of Split, the palace was completed in the 4th century.
It was built for Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence. Left abandoned and later repurposed, the palace barely resembles the magnificent structure it once was.
That said, stepping into the inner courtyard – called the Peristyle – is like stepping back in time.
The awe-inspiring square is surrounded by grandiose columns, Diocletian’s mausoleum, an Egyptian sphinx and the very platform from which Diocletian would have greeted his subjects.
In fact, for a Unique Experience in Split, make sure you are in the Peristyle at noon, when you can catch a glimpse of Diocletian standing on the balcony.
Read our Guide to Diocletian’s Palace for more information about the history and sights to see within the ruins.
#2 Navigate Old Town Split
The cool, narrow lanes that crawl through Diocletian’s Palace and the adjacent Split Old Town are fabulous for navigating.
Lined with posh restaurants, inviting cafes, souvenir shops and hidden corners, the stone streets weave in a tangle that constitute the very essence of the city.
The stones underfoot have been smoothed and polished by millions of steps. Adding your footprints to the mix is an essential Split experience.
We love wandering aimlessly through this area, but if you want a little guidance – and some fun historical facts – use our Free Split Walking Tour!
#3 Have a Drink on the Split Riva
The buzzing café culture in Split is undeniable. From morning to night, patrons sit and sip at outdoor cafes, savoring their drink and the conversation as much as the atmosphere.
Nowhere in the city is the longtime tradition more evident than on the sea-facing Riva. Numerous cafes spill out onto the wide pedestrian promenade, with rows of tables and chairs occupied by both locals and tourists.
Having a drink at one of the Riva cafes is a quintessential experience in Split. Whether you order a strong coffee, Plavac Mali wine, a local beer or the vitamin-filled Croatian drink, Cedevita, you will be participating in a time-honored tradition!
#4 Take in the View from Marjan Hill
Considered the ‘Lungs of Split’, Marjan Hill is a marvelous green space and exploring the area is one of the premier experiences in Split.
The elevated terrain marks the western point of the peninsula and rises to a height of 585 feet. When we visit Split, taking in the superb views from one (or more) of the panoramic vistas is indispensable.
The first lookout, at the main pedestrian entrance to the park, is the easiest to reach – and the viewpoint is sensational. Stretching across orange-tiled rooftops and out to the dazzling turquoise sea, it’s a renowned scenic spot.
That said, visitors with time (and energy) can follow hiking trails into the forest park to discover more phenomenal viewpoints.
We share the all details of the best scenic outlooks and our favorite treks in our Guide to Hiking Marjan Hill.
#5 Savor the Local Split Flavors
One of the things that keeps luring us back to Split is the incredible local food. You’ll likely notice the enticing scents drifting down the medieval lanes.
When we are away, we dream of calorie-laden burek and ajvar-covered cevapi sandwiches. We crave fresh-caught fish from the Adriatic Sea, Croatian truffle pasta and squid ink crni rizot.
Getting a taste of the local fare during your Split trip is certainly a necessity – and there are endless restaurants in and around the Old Town.
For a traditional meal, we recommend dining at a konoba, where they excel at cooking Dalmatian cuisine.
Alternatively, for a quick, on-the-go bite to eat, don’t miss Kantun Paulina or St. Burek. These two fast-food restaurants are staples of the local Split gastronomy.
For more of our favorite dining establishments and recommended dishes, read our guide to the top Split Restaurants.
#6 Experience a Split Sunset
Taking a moment out of your busy sightseeing schedule to enjoy watching the sun sink into the horizon will, undoubtedly, be one of the most memorable experiences in Split.
The elevated Sustipan Park that sits atop coastal cliffs is one of our treasured sunset spots. Kasjuni Beach and the top of Marjan Hill are two more prime places to catch the setting sun. Cruises – like this one – are another exceptional way to mark the end of the day.
That said, we often enjoy sunset at Matejuska, the local fisherman’s port. Although the sun will actually drop behind Marjan before setting, the radiant glow of the late afternoon light splashing across the water is dazzling.
Before heading out to the pier, grab a cold beverage from the market or a delicious Croatian Craft Brew from Little Beer Shop. Then, join the fun mix of tourists and locals watching the daylight fade away.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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- How To Plan a Croatia Vacation
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