Marjan Hill is a top attraction in Split, Croatia. Just a stone’s throw from the Split Old Town, Marjan Forest Park features stunning viewpoints, ancient sites and miles of hiking trails.
We have clocked countless steps tromping up, over and around the area. That said, navigating to specific spots can be a bit confusing (despite the new – but not very helpful – maps in the park).
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To help fellow travelers experience this lovely slice of nature, we are sharing all the need-to-know-info. From what to see and how to get there to the best hiking routes, we cover it all – and include a Marjan Hill map, too!
Marjan Hill: Split, Croatia
Marjan Park covers the peninsula to the west of the historic Old Town. In our opinion, it’s a Split Must-See Attraction.
Standing at a height of 584 feet, Marjan is often called the Lungs of Split. Here, you can take a break from Split Sightseeing and become immersed in nature.
Old stone churches dot the landscape, ancient cave dwellings are hidden in sheer cliff walls and beautiful beaches mark the peninsula’s perimeter.
Casual hikers, families with kids and anyone who appreciates epic views will want to make time in their Split Itinerary to explore the expansive space.
It’s best to hike Marjan Split, Croatia when the sun is shining, the sea is shimmering and the heavy scent of evergreen is in the air.
Listen to the birds chirping; chase butterflies floating on a breeze; watch caterpillars make their long trek to…wherever it is they are headed.
In addition to detailing how to get here, we highlight the best things to see on Marjan Hill and our ideal hiking route.
How To Get to Marjan Hill from Old Town Split
Before we outline the top hikes on Marjan Hill, you need to know how to get to the main entrance and trailhead.
We are outlining the three best ways to get to Marjan Hill from the Riva in Split on foot. We share step-by-step directions, as well as a map for each route.
Note that the first Marjan Hill lookout – which is considered by many to be the most beautiful Split viewpoint – is situated at the main pedestrian entrance.
You will want to use these directions whether you plan on spending a full day hiking or are only going as far as the first lookout point.
Direct Route Through Varos Neighborhood with Stairs
From the west end of the Riva, cross through the square with the large fountain to St. Frane Church and Monastery. The street to the right of the church leads uphill past a Marjan Park signpost.
Continue up into the Varos Neighborhood on the narrow lane which leads to a sloping staircase. At the top of the stairs, turn left.
Pass the Marjan Hill café and Old Jewish Cemetery to get to the first lookout. Use this Google Map for walking directions (plan on it taking 15-20 minutes).
Gradual Climb Through Varos
For another picturesque stroll, we recommend winding through a different narrow street in Varos that gently climbs to the same location.
From the Riva, first walk into the colorful Republic Square. At the northwest corner (on your left), there is an alley; walk through it. Directly in front of you is Krizeva Ulica. Take this street uphill.
As you ascend the narrow lane, it changes names to Miliceva and eventually intersects with Prilaz Vladimira Nazora.
Turn left (south) here and continue up to the viewpoint and entrance. Use this Google Map for directions.
Staircase from Matejuska Fisherman’s Port
The third way to get to Marjan from the Split city center is via a steep staircase off Marasovica Ulica, which is west of the Old Fisherman Port and right next to Markus Fine Wines Tasting Room.
From the Split Riva, follow the harbor past Matejuska. Detour away from the water before the curve (at Fife Restaurant) onto Solurat Ulica.
Walk to the staircase (it will be on your right) that leads all the way up to the first lookout point. Use this link for walking directions – or search online maps for “Marjan Hill Stairs”.
Bonus: Marjan Hill by Vehicle
Those who would prefer to skip the walking all together can book a Tuk Tuk Tour of Split that includes the first viewpoint and other Marjan peninsula attractions.
Alternatively, there is a Split Tourist Train that follows a route similar to the Tuk Tuk and costs quite a bit less.
Keep in mind that both of these options only allow for about 10 minutes at each viewpoint and no time for actual Marjan Hill hiking.
What To See on Marjan Hill and Best Hiking Routes
There is so much to discover on the Marjan Peninsula! The ideal way to determine your Marjan hiking route is to first decide what it is you want to see.
Below we are outlining the top attractions and how to get to them. Later, we wrap it all up in a Marjan Park hiking adventure!
#1 Marjan Park Entrance Viewpoint
No matter how you decide to reach the rather informal pedestrian entrance to Marjan Park, we’re quite certain you’ll find this spot breathtaking.
Pause here and linger over the stunning views of Split and the towering mountains in the distance.
This Marjan Hill viewpoint provides the best vista of the city. Even if you aren’t interested in hiking in Split, make the effort to get here!
Just opposite this iconic perch is a wide path leading up. This marks the trailhead for all of our recommended Marjan Hill hikes.
Marjan Hill Cafe and Jewish Cemetery
Taking in the famous Split Old Town view isn’t the only thing to do at the entrance to Marjan Park.
The Marjan Hill restaurant and café, Vidilica, is housed in the former mortuary and is a great place for a post-hike beverage or meal-with-a-view.
Directly next to the cafe is the entrance to the Old Jewish Cemetery. Established in 1573 for Split’s Jewish population, more than 700 grave markers still stand, with the oldest dating to the early 1700s.
You access the cemetery through the gate to the right of the café. If it’s locked, ask for the keys at the café.
Note that there is an entrance path to Marjan to the right (north) of the cemetery entrance. This trail is not our recommended route. Not only does it lack views (but is shaded), the rocks are quite slick.
#2 Church of St. Nicholas
The small stone St. Nicholas Church dates to the year 1219. Of all the churches on Marjan, it is the oldest – and, in our opinion, the most charming.
Unfortunately, we have never seen the interior – but they do celebrate mass here on December 6 to mark the Feast of St. Nicholas.
It’s a short climb in two fairly steep sections to the church from the first viewpoint. The spot also provides partial sea views, several benches and a water fountain.
#3 Marjan Hill Telegrin Viewing Platform
Situated atop the highest peak in Marjan Park, the Telegrin offers outstanding views. The vista encompasses the sea, islands, mountains and the sprawling metropolitan area of Split.
The spot is marked by the giant Croatian flag that flies above the forest of trees on one end and a stoic stone cross on the other.
There are multiple ways to hike in Marjan Hill Park to the Summit Viewpoint on foot. They all require a fair amount of effort and vary in level of difficulty.
Stairs to Marjan Hill Viewing Platform
The shortest (but definitely not the easiest) route begins with the steep staircase located behind St. Nicholas.
Follow the stairs up until you reach a plateau that is the site of the Marjan Split Zoo. There’s potable water fountains in the stone structure to your right.
There’s a few more Marjan lookout points to your left, but much better ones are coming up! Keep walking past an outdoor amphitheater and the children’s play areas.
As you intersect with the road, turn left, then an immediate right. Follow that path to the 314 stone steps that lead to the Telegrin.
To skip the stairs, follow the asphalt road, taking the left turn that leads up. At the T, make another left. This leads to a parking lot (where the tourist train drops off). Now take the much shorter staircase to the top.
There is also the following route that is a bit easier, but still requires a solid effort. From St. Nicholas, continue on the main wide path instead of up the steps.
When the route splits, take the inclined ramp on the right. At the top is the entrance to the Split Botanical Garden (more on that below).
The path to the right leads to the same intersection next to the play area. From here, choose 314 stairs or the road route to the top.
Marjan Main Path and Forest Trail to Telegrin
This gently sloping Marjan hiking trail is a less-direct route to the viewing platform, but the one we prefer. The one-way trek from the 1st viewpoint to the Telegrin is about 2 miles.
Once at St Nicholas, skip the steps and continue on the wide main path. Bypass the ramp to the Botanic Garden and continue going straight.
This Marjan Hill walking route is only slightly inclined and is highlighted by sensational sea views along the way.
When you reach the intersection with the road at the Saddle – or Sedlo in Croatian – turn right onto Marjanski Put. Use these coordinates.
On your left you will see a water fountain. Pump the handle several times; it’s potable and a good place to fill up.
Diagonally across from the water pump is a bench and five stone steps that lead to Girometta’s Trail. It’s marked with a wooden sign.
Take this path, which is comprised of dirt and rock. The trail passes through beautiful nature and a monument to the respected Croatian professor from Split it’s named after.
The route continues past old stone walls and bunkers, until it abruptly ends in a parking lot. Cross the lot and climb the stairs to the Telegrin Summit Viewpoint!
#4 Marjan Hill Botanical Garden
Founded in 1951, the Split Botanical Garden features an array of Mediterranean flora. A recently renovated Marjan sight, it boasts 550 different plant species, quiet spaces and glasshouses.
The main route through the garden features sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and distant islands. It’s still a bit of a hidden gem and (for now) free to visit!
Hiking to the Botanical Garden Split
The Marjan Botanical Garden is located just half a mile from the park entrance/first viewpoint.
Walk along the main path past the Church of St. Nicholas. Go up the inclined ramp that veers to the right to the entrance.
Note, too, that you can cut through the garden and exit at the far end. From there, you pick right back up on the main Marjan trail.
#5 New Marjan Hill Observation Tower
Perched toward the west end of the peninsula is the Vidikovac Marjan Observation Deck. Purpose built as a weather monitoring center, the modern structure offers astounding views in all directions.
It is free to enter (as are the toilets), but may be closed due to weather or when no metrologist is on duty.
Hiking to the Marjan Tower Observation Deck
The route here follows the main path from the first viewpoint to the saddle and then up a steep driveway. The distance is about 1.5 miles.
After passing St. Nicholas Church and keeping left on the main trail past the Botanical Garden ramp, you will see the tower in the distance.
At the saddle, keep going straight, passing the small parking lot (map). Once past the lot, the main road veers to the left and there is a trail on the right.
However, you want to take the inclined road that curves to the left and passes a random house. Follow it up to the tower and our favorite spot for a Marjan Hill sunset!
Pro Tip: After visiting the tower, you can take Baba Marta’s Trail to descend to the western most point of Marjan Peninsula. The route leads through thick forest and is lined by old dry stone walls.
#6 Marjan Hill Cave Dwellings
On the western south-facing slope are the dramatic Marjan cliffs, called Svete Stijene – or Sacred Rocks. They stand at a height of 485 feet and are the third-highest peak on Marjan Hill.
While the Marjan ridge is beautiful on its own, even more intriguing are the stone homes in the side of the sheer cliff wall.
Called Karepic’s Tower and Oratory of St. Cyriacus, the 14th century cave houses were used as places of prayer by holy men and provided protection during invasions.
Hiking to the Cave Dwellings
It’s about a 1.5-mile hike to reach the cliffs from the park entrance. Follow the main trail from the pedestrian entry point to the saddle (map). Continue straight, past the parking area, then follow the road to the left.
The pavement leads downhill slightly, passing the quaint Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. There is a sea view lookout point on the opposite side.
Continue walking on the road to the hairpin turn. There, continue straight onto the trail that leads to St. Jerome Church and the hermitage caves.
#7 Marjan Beaches
Kasjuni Beach – on the south western edge – features fine pebbly sand and gorgeous turquoise water. This picture-perfect locale is one of the Best Split Beaches.
A beautiful northwest-facing beach, Bene has long been a favorite spot for soaking in the sun and splashing in the sea.
In the summer, both beaches are a great place to swim in the Adriatic; which is so refreshing after a long trek!
You can hike over the top of Marjan to get to either, but the most direct route is via the shoreline. They can also be reached by local bus.
Hiking to Kasjuni Beach
For a route that includes Telegrin Summit, we recommend entering the park via the main path, continuing past St. Nicholas Church and taking the ramp to the Botanic Gardens.
From here, take the 314 steps to the Marjan Hill Platform. After taking in the views, exit from the far end (west) of the platform, descend the steps, cross the parking lot and hop on Girometta’s Forest Trail.
When the trail ends at the saddle, pass the small parking area and follow the road to the left toward the cave dwellings. Take the road downhill for another 1.5 miles to reach the beach.
Hiking to Marjan Bene Beach
Start by making your way to the Telegrin viewpoint, either via the stairs behind St. Nicholas or the Botanical Garden ramp.
Leave the platform on the far side by the white cross and use Girometta’s Trail. When it meets the road, look across the street – near the pumping water fountain – for a trail marker that indicates Bene. Follow the signs through the forest and down to the sea.
Alternatively, bypass the Telegrin and take the main path to the saddle (map). Turn right onto Marjanski Put and look ahead on your left for the Bene sign.
Best Marjan Hill Sightseeing Loop Hike
With two access points to the Marjan Platform at the summit and numerous sights located near the main path, it’s easy to complete an epic Marjan Hill sightseeing hike in a loop.
We believe this route is the absolute best hike on Marjan Hill Split! Start at the very first viewpoint by the entrance. Take the main path and pass by St. Nicholas Church.
Go up the ramp on the right and detour into the Botanical Garden to see what’s in bloom. Follow the primary route through the garden to the far exit (by the stone house). Then go through the gate and reconnect with the main Marjan path.
Just up ahead is a gorgeous viewpoint with benches. From here, continue to the saddle and up to the new Vidikovac Tower. Take in the views, then retrace your steps to the saddle.
Follow the curving road down to St. Jerome Church and the cliff dwellings. This is a good spot for a picnic lunch.
Return again to the saddle, but this time, turn left on Marjanski Put and find the trailhead to Girometta’s Path on your right. Follow it through the forest and across the parking lot to the Telegrin 360-Degree View.
Exit the platform by the flag and take the stairs down, completing the loop at Saint Nicholas Church. Then continue on the downhill path to the first viewpoint and cafe.
Round trip from the center of the Split Old Town, we complete our Marjan Loop Hike in about two hours. However, we feel most travelers will want to linger longer. Therefore, allow 3-4 hours for this Marjan Hill hike.
Split Marjan Hill Map
Use this online map for an interactive version of our Marjan Hill Split, Croatia Map below.
Marjan Forest Park Hiking Trail Tips
Trekking around Marjan Hill is a fun way to spend time in Split – and we have some advice that will help make the most of your hike!
Durable Shoes
Skip the flip flops and lace up good walking shoes for your trek through the forest. You don’t need hiking boots – just a good pair of versatile sneakers, like these.
Sun Protection and Water Bottle
The Croatia sun is intense! Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat for shade. And, of course, your favorite travel sunglasses.
Don’t forget your water bottle! We’ve highlighted several locations where you can refill.
Day Pack
We like to wear backpacks when hiking. The small packs we use are big enough for our cameras, portable chargers, snacks and water plus tissues and hand sanitizer.
Planning Your Trip to Split, Croatia
Split is one of the Top Destinations in Croatia – and you can plan your best vacation with our trusted tips and honest travel advice.
Begin by reading our Complete Guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation. Then take a look at sample 7 Day Trips and our complete 2-Week Croatia Itinerary.
We also recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of all your trip details!
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 and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Great Hikes in Croatia
With soaring mountains and miles of coastline, there are ample opportunities for hiking in Croatia.
- Hike to Stari Grad Fortress in Omis
- Trek up Vidova Gora on Brac
- Climb up Biokovo in Makarska
- Hike to Napoleon Fortress in Hvar Town
- Walk up Mt. Srd in Dubrovnik
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