Things to see and do on your trip to Split?

If you don’t know Split yet, this is your cue to discover it. The city is one of the most beautiful and impressive in Croatia. And although Dubrovnik is popularly known as “the pearl of the Adriatic”, Split has nothing to envy as it is a real jewel, declared a World Heritage Site. Its Roman ruins take visitors back in time. Its stunning beaches with crystal clear water invite you to dream of an eternal summer. Read on to find out what things to do in beautiful Split.

Places to see in Split, Croatia

Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian was a Roman emperor who saw the land that is now Split as the perfect place to spend the last years of his life, on the shores of the Adriatic. He therefore decided to build an enormous palace. Although it could more accurately be called a fortress, it was built between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. Today, the sightseeing is the nerve centre of Split. It is one of the most beautiful and important remains of Roman civilization in Croatia and the world. And one of the reasons why the historic centre of Split was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. It is impressive to see ancient remains of past civilizations in such a good state of preservation. It is also adapted to modern times, housing restaurants and shops, but always respecting history.

There are neither prices nor timetables to enter as it is part of the city, however inside you will find most of the monuments and interesting points of the city that are not free. For this reason, we suggest buying the full ticket, which includes a pass to all of them for the price of 45 kunas (€6) and is cheaper than buying them individually.

Split Cathedral

One of the must-see stops in Split is the Cathedral of St Duje. This huge and beautiful building was originally built to be the mausoleum of Diocletian, but was converted into a Catholic cathedral in the 8th century. Centuries later, from the 12th to the 20th century, its soaring 60-metre high bell tower was built and stands out, overlooking the city from on high.

The entrance fee to the cathedral is 5 kunas (€0.66). Plus another 5 if you want to visit the bell tower, which is well worth it for its breathtaking views over Split.

Temple of Jupiter

The Temple of Jupiter is one of the most visited monuments in Split, also located in Diocletian’s Palace. It dates back to the 4th century, when it was built by the Romans in honour of the god after whom it is named. This jewel of archaeology was transformed years later into a baptistery and at its foot is a crypt that was used as a church, the Church of St. Thomas. Raised on a podium and guarded by a portico of six columns, its images, the relief and the coffered barrel-vaulted ceiling have influenced important artists of later cultural movements such as the Renaissance.

Beaches of Split, one of the best things to see and do in Split

In addition to its historic old town, Split is famous for its beautiful beaches on the Adriatic Sea, making it an ideal summer holiday destination.

• Bacvice Beach: This beach, in the centre of town, is one of the busiest places you’ll see in Split. Its fine sand, turquoise water and lively promenade are just some of the elements that make it an ideal place to enjoy a holiday in Croatia.
• Kasjuni Beach: Some 4 kilometres from Diocletian’s Palace, this wonderful beach is surrounded by greenery and is quieter than the previous one. To get there, you can take bus number 12.

Meštrovi Gallery

The Meštrovi Gallery is a museum dedicated to the work of the 20th century sculptor Ivan Meštrovi? The gallery houses a significant collection of the Croatian artist’s most outstanding works. In fact, it is a monument in itself. The vast majority of the works are of a religious nature and the materials most commonly used by the artist are bronze, marble and wood. A good way to get to know one of Croatia’s most important artists.

Price: General admission 40 kunas (€5.28), youth and seniors, 20 kunas (€2.64).

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Split?

Trogir, one of the best destinations to see near Split

The charming little town of Trogir is an unmissable stop on your Croatian tour. Just half an hour’s drive from Split. It’s a tiny island, with crystal-clear waters and streets full of magic, which is why it was declared a World Heritage Site.

This small city was founded by the Greeks in the 3rd century BC. You can still see its artistic and architectural heritage in the streets of the historic centre. There, the stigmata of this civilization remain in a very good state of preservation. Although the city is not particularly large, it is charming for the beauty of its monuments, with, in addition, other artistic influences such as Renaissance and Baroque. Examples of these must-see monuments in this destination near Split include the St. Lawrence Cathedral and the Camarlengo Castle.

Trogir and Split have a very good connection by bus for around 2 or 3 euros and with a constant frequency, so you won’t have to worry too much about booking your journey in advance.

Discover more about this city at Things to see and do on your trip to Trogir?

Isle of Hvar

In the middle of the Adriatic Sea lies one of the liveliest and most charming Croatian islands you can find. But it is also a beautiful natural enclave, marked by the influence of the different cultures that have landed on its shores. Its paradisiacal beaches are a major attraction. However, its old town is not far behind, nor is the lively rhythm of its harbour.

It’s also one of the most popular destinations from Split, so both destinations are well served by ferries. The price is around €15 each way and the journey time is 55 minutes. Please check the timetables as they change depending on the time of year and day of the week.

We tell you Things to see and do on your trip to Hvar

Sibenik, a beautiful town to see 1 hour from Split

Sibenik is a beautiful and peaceful town on the shores of the Adriatic. Yet, it is often overlooked on travel routes as it is overshadowed by other more famous towns such as Dubrovnik or Split itself. The city, as well as boasting some of the country’s most spectacular cathedrals, has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture. In this post, we’ll tell you what to see in Sibenik and some other tips to help you prepare for your trip.

Sibenik is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Croatia. Its marble floors and white facades have earned the city the name of the Pearl of the Adriatic. Here is a list of the must-see places to visit in Sibenik. Among the places to see in the town are: its Old Town, the Square of the Croatian Republic, the medieval garden of the Monastery of St. Lawrence, the Fortress of St. Michael, its Cathedrals…

Know more about this city in Things to see and do on your trip to Sibenik?

How to get to Split, Croatia?

Split is very well-connected to the rest of the country by sea and by land with ferries, trains and buses. Below we explain how to get to Split from Dubrovnik, as it is usually one of the most sought-after routes in Croatia.

Of course, if you’re travelling in Croatia by car, this is the option for you. The distance to be covered is about 230km, or about 3 hours, along the E65 and D8 motorways. However, if you’re not travelling by car and don’t intend to hire one, the bus is your best ally. The Flixbus company offers several services a day connecting the two cities. The journey takes between 4.5 and 5 hours, depending on which bus you choose. The price is between €13 and €16.

What to do in Split in 2 days?

Where to eat in Split?

• Portofino: This is for many the best restaurant in Split. This elegant restaurant defines itself as a pasta, meat and seafood restaurant, so you’ll find delicious dishes for all tastes on the menu, prepared with love and care. Price Range: €7-45
• Biri Biri Bela: The ideal place if you’re looking for a place to have breakfast with a varied brunch and breakfast menu. And if its delicious food isn’t enough, its pleasant terrace is the icing on the cake. Price range: €10-45
• Fig Split: Right in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace is this fantastic contemporary health food restaurant. At Fig Split you can enjoy everything from delicious breakfasts and meals to elaborate cocktails. The best for every moment of the day. Price range: €8-18

Where to sleep in Split?

• House of Cyril: A small 3-star guest house in the centre of Split, 10 minutes from the beach and free cancellation up to two days before arrival. The rooms are bright and comfortable and the staff are excellent. Average price per night: €80
• Centro di Centri Rooms: Fantastic rooms in the Diocletian’s Palace in a 4-star hostel. Average price per night: €120 in high season

Tips for your trip to Split, Croatia

• The official currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (€1 = 379.08 HUF).
• We recommend that you exchange money before you set off on your trip, as this will make it cheaper for you.
• As European citizens, we don’t need a visa to enter the country either, just your ID card or passport is enough.
• The best time to travel to Split Hungary is in spring and autumn, when there are fewer tourists and the temperatures are more pleasant than in winter or summer.
• Buy museum tickets in advance to avoid queues.
• The city is safe, but as with any tourist destination, it’s best to be careful with your belongings.
• Be covered for possible medical emergencies: travel insured.

How to organize what to see in Split, Croatia

Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.

• Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add suggestions from the app to it.
• Add the stops you’re most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
• Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can take inspiration from the routes we present in the post).
• Check out the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make any modifications you need to make, and you’re all set for your trip.
• Share your experience. Upload photos of the places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend other travellers what to see in Split, Croatia.

If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about Split, Croatia