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12 Things to Do in Split, Croatia (Which Are Also Free!)

Home » DESTINATIONS » Europe » Croatia » 12 Things to Do in Split, Croatia (Which Are Also Free!)

Last Modified: March 7, 2025 //  by Anda //  27 Comments

By virtue of its location, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Split is one of the most popular beach destinations in Croatia. But while its gorgeous beaches are an undeniable attraction, there are so many other things to see and do in Split beyond the seashore.

Trstenik beach in Split
Trstenik beach, just a 15 minute walk from Split

Table of Contents

  • Split First Impressions
  • BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPLIT
    • 1. Walk along the Riva
    • 2. Explore Split’s Historic Center
    • 3. Visit the Palace of Diocletian
    • 4. Visit St. Duje’s Cathedral
    • 5. Stop in the Peristyle Square
    • 6. Discover History in the Old City Walls
    • 7. Statue of Grgur Ninski
    • 8. Visit Split Archaeological Museum
    • 9. Hike Up to Marjan Hill
    • 10. Climb Up to the Hermitage Caves
    • 11. St. Nicholas Chapel
    • 12. Visit the Jewish Cemetery

Split First Impressions

Split a remarkable city with a vibrant life, a rich history and a very welcoming atmosphere. A typical Mediterranean town with an idyllic seaside promenade, swaying palm trees and a colorful harbor. Once you see it, you’ll understand why Split is one of the most popular wedding destinations in Europe.

Aside from the unsophisticated urban neighborhoods built during communism, the city managed to preserve its historical aspect quite well in the historic center.

Split was built on the remains of a 4th-century fortress, which was also Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. The massive walls of the palace are still visible today, surrounding a mesh of Roman ruins, hotels, apartments, shops, and cafés. Life has been happening within these ancient walls for almost 1700 years.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPLIT

1. Walk along the Riva

It’s almost impossible to miss the Riva, Split’s energetic and spirited waterfront promenade. There is always action on the Riva: boats fill its lovely harbor, tourists crowd its shaded cafés, stalls with local crafts and souvenirs line up its shores. There are also quite a few beautiful beaches in Split, if you happen to visit the city during the summer.

Places to Visit in Split: the Riva waterfront promenade at night
Places to Visit in Split: the Riva Waterfront Promenade at Night

Riva is a popular gathering spot both during the day and after dark. It’s the place for meeting, walking, hosting public events and enjoying the sea. It’s no doubt the most popular and most important public place in Split.

Boats docked near the waterfront promenade in Split
Boats docked near the Riva

2. Explore Split’s Historic Center

For the most part, Split’s attractions are concentrated in the historic center, so every visit usually starts here. Once you pass the palace walls, you find yourself in a maze of narrow streets paved with wide marble slabs.

Wandering through the colorful alleys lined up with boutiques and restaurants I couldn’t help thinking that these were literally the Diocletian’s corridors at one point in time.

Things to do in Split: exploring the Historic Center
Things to do in Split: exploring the Historic Center

The narrow streets are intersected by many attractive squares, like Narodni Trg (People’s Square), Prokurative (Republic Square), or Voćni Trg (Fruit Square)

3. Visit the Palace of Diocletian

Split’s most important landmark is undoubtedly the Palace of Diocletian and its central square. What becomes immediately clear is that Diocletian’s Palace is not a museum, but rather a walled village populated with hotels, shops, cafés and restaurants.

Visiting the Underground Vaults of the Palace of Diocletian
Visiting the Underground Vaults of the Palace of Diocletian

4. Visit St. Duje’s Cathedral

Known locally as the Cathedral of Saint Dujam, this cathedral was once Diocletian’s Mausoleum. At the turn of the 7th century, the mausoleum became a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Diocletian's Mausoleum which is today Saint Domnius Cathedral
Diocletian’s Mausoleum which is today Saint Domnius Cathedral

The and the bell tower next to it is however dedicated to to Saint Duje, but together they form the Cathedral of St. Duje.

5. Stop in the Peristyle Square

The Peristyle was the central square of the Diocletian’s Palace where the Emperor was celebrated as the living son of Jupiter. Diocletian would appear under the columns of the Protyron, while his subjects kissed the hem of his cloak, kneeling down. or even lying their entire body to the ground.

The Peristyle, the monumental court in front of Domitian's Mausoleum
The Peristyle, the monumental court in front of Domitian’s Mausoleum

Take a moment observe the beautiful columns and the steps circling the Peristyle and imagine how many steps must have traveled this small square over the centuries. Notice the 3500 old and perfectly preserved sphinx, which was brought here from Egypt. You are standing in the center one of the oldest places on Earth!

6. Discover History in the Old City Walls

Few things are as exciting as stumbling upon a sight that very few people seem to know about. It’s amazing to discover that many of the ordinary buildings within these walls are actually as old and beautiful as the palace itself. Unknowingly and totally by chance, we reserved a room at Split’s oldest hotel – Hotel Slavija.

The hotel is located in the southern area of Diocletian’s Palace, above the part where the spas were. You can still see parts of the ancient walls in several places today.

Visiting the Old City Walls in Split
Old City Walls in Split

In more recent history, the building of the hotel can be traced back to the 16th century, when a Renaissance-Baroque palace complex was erected above the 4th century spas of Diocletian.

7. Statue of Grgur Ninski

 Located right outside the Golden Gate, the 28-feet tall statue of Grur Ninski is another popular spot in Split. The statue was designed in 1929 by one of Croatia’s most important artists, Ivan Meštrović.

Image of the Statue of Grgur Ninski in Split
Statue of Grgur Ninski

Grgur Ninski was a 10th-century bishop who defied the pope by conducting religious services in the Croatian language, thus helping spread Christianity in this region. People rub Ninski’s big toe for good luck.

8. Visit Split Archaeological Museum

Situated within walking distance from the city center, the Archaeological Museum in Split is a delight for every history buff. The Museum was founded in 1820 and includes archaeological artifacts from the prehistoric, Greek, Roman, early Christian and Medieval ages.

Visiting the Archeological Museum in Split
Visiting the Archeological Museum in Split

Also worth a visit is the museum’s beautiful garden.

Museum hours are:
Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission fee is $5.00/person.

9. Hike Up to Marjan Hill

Most people who visit Split tend to stick to the old town or the nearby beaches, but it’s worth paying a visit to the forest-park which sits atop Marjan Hill. 

Locals are very proud of their beautiful pine-forest area and they nicknamed it the “lungs of Split,” because of its fresh air. From up here you’ll get some of the most spectacular views of the harbor and the old town.

The road to Marjan Hill
The pedestrian road to Marjan Hill

There are lots of hiking trails and some very on the Marjan Hill. During the hot summer months, this is a  great escape from the city’s bustling life.

View of Split from Telegrin
View of Split from Telegrin

The fastest route to Marjan Hill is a 1.5 hours hike from the Riva waterfront via a stepped stairway. However, climbing up some 300+ steps is very tiring.

We hired a local guide from who drove us to the very top of the hill in his golf cart. There is also a bus that takes you half way to the top of the hill, but you’ll have to walk the rest of the way if you want to get to the very top.

Private road to the top of Marjan Hill
Private road to the top of Marjan Hill

The advantage of having a guide was that he had access to a private road that took us all the way to the top of the hill. He also told us what else to visit up here.

10. Climb Up to the Hermitage Caves

If you manage to get to the very top of Marjan Hill, don’t miss the strange Hermitage Caves built into the cliffs on the southern side of the mountain, just behind St. Jerome Church.

Things to do in Split: visiting the Hermit Caves
Visiting the Hermit Caves, one the best things to do in Split

The caves date back to the 15th century and were used by the Christian monks.

This rock is also a popular place for rock climbing and rappelling. We saw two people climbing up the cliff when we were there.

11. St. Nicholas Chapel

As you walk down from the Hermitage Caves, you’ll pass by St. Nicholas Chapel, a tiny church built in 1219 by Elisabeth and Rako, two citizens of Split. They later donated it to the Benedictine monks at St. Stephen Abbey.

View of St. Nicholas Church on Marjan Hill
St. Nicholas Church on Marjan Hill

St. Nicholas was the protector of the sea, which seems quite appropriate as there is a great view of the sea from the chapel.

12. Visit the Jewish Cemetery

Also on the slopes of the Marjan Hill, you’ll find the oldest Jewish Cemetery in Split. The cemetery is next to popular Café Vidilica, a former funeral home that still has inscribed above the door a Jewish prayer. The cemetery is usually open but if locked ask at Vidilica for the key.

The Jewish Cemetery was established in 1573 and has about 700 graves. Some of the graves go as far back as to the 16th century. The rest of the graves are from the 18th to the 20th century. The last burial took place in 1945 when when the cemetery was closed and declared a monument. 

The Old Jewish Cemetery in Split
The Old Jewish Cemetery in Split

Split is one of Croatia’s most thought after destinations and a great place for family vacations. It’s also a great base for many beautiful day trips from Split. There is a wide range of accommodations in Split to fit every budget and traveling style. You should be planning to spend at least 2-3 days in this picturesque sea-side town. 

NEED MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO CROATIA? READ THESE:

  • One Day in Zadar: How Much Can You Really See
  • Dubrovnik’s Fort Imperial – A Glimpse Into Croatia’s War of Independence
  • The Ultimate Guide for Driving in the Balkans
  • Strolling the Lungomare Promenade From Opatija to Volosko
Things to do in Split, Croatia

Category: Croatia, DESTINATIONS, EuropeTag: Destination Guides, European Cities

About Anda

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Previous Post: « Dubrovnik’s Fort Imperial – A Glimpse Into Croatia’s War of Independence
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Tanja (the Red phone box travels)

    September 9, 2017 at 2:16 am

    beautiful post about Split:)

    Reply
  2. Anda Galffy

    August 23, 2017 at 8:59 pm

    Thank you Victoria. I think Croatia is right up your alley.

    Reply
  3. Sally's Tips 4 Trips (aka Toddlers on Tour)

    August 23, 2017 at 5:03 pm

    Oh I feel as though I need to go back to Split. We never climbed the hill, those views are wonderful.

    Reply
  4. Hilary

    August 21, 2017 at 5:55 pm

    The photos are just amazing! Just looking at them makes me want to reconsider my next destination!

    Reply
  5. Elaine J Masters

    August 20, 2017 at 8:45 pm

    I saw so little of Split outside of the few hours I wandered the Palace ruins. One day I’ll return and in off-season when the crowds are less. How wonderful you stayed inside the ruins.

    Reply
  6. Cindy

    August 20, 2017 at 5:45 pm

    Thanks for the mini-trip back to Split! It looks as if it is even more beautiful and lively than when we visited a dozen years ago or more (when it was just starting to recover from the war). Even then it was one of my favorite stops on our cruise through the Adriatic – the fact that people were living in all that history was amazing, but it also just felt comfortable. Now you have me thinking I need to make a return trip!

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 20, 2017 at 7:49 pm

      A trip back to Croatia is always fun, Cindy. I’m sure you’d discover new places you didn’t have time to explore the first time around.

      Reply
  7. Esther

    August 20, 2017 at 6:01 am

    I just loved the diocletians palace, as you’re exactly ín it in Split. Would love to go back!

    Reply
  8. Laryssa Gobets

    August 20, 2017 at 5:49 am

    We definitely want to go to Split. I’m saving this post for later with all it’s good information. Thanks!!

    Reply
  9. Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats

    August 19, 2017 at 2:43 pm

    The city center looks beautiful and interesting – still need to get to Croatia. Could use a warm seaside vacation spot after “summer” in Scotland 😉

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 19, 2017 at 4:40 pm

      I hear you, Jessica, I can only imagine how cold summers must be in Scotland.

      Reply
  10. Ruth | Tanama Tales

    August 19, 2017 at 2:41 pm

    I have read many articles about Split but I do not remember reading about the fortress or view. That is why I love to get recommendations from locals. I like the idea of the private guide. I like views but I do not like going up (and less when you have to do it almost day during a trip). Had enough of that last May in Germany.

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 19, 2017 at 4:44 pm

      Marjan Hill is not a fortress, it’s actually more like a park. The “green space” of Split. I am not usually using the services of local guides, but I had a couple of very good experience when I did it, so most likely I should do it more often.

      Reply
  11. Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields

    August 18, 2017 at 10:24 pm

    Split looks just stunning and your photos are gorgeous as always.

    Reply
  12. Mary {The World Is A Book}

    August 18, 2017 at 5:58 pm

    We were in Split only for a day during our cruise a few weeks ago. It was one of those cities that we definitely put on our places to return to for a land vacation. We loved the area and despite it being so darn hot during our visit. we did a tour that covered Diocletian’s Palace and a ride along the coast. I wish we had more time to visit Marjan Hill. Beautiful photos as always.

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 19, 2017 at 4:48 pm

      In one day you can cover basically just the Old Town area, but not the surroundings. You definitely should return to Split, Mary and if you do remember to visit Kliss Fortress as well. It’s just a few miles away from Split.

      Reply
  13. Michelle | michwanderlust

    August 18, 2017 at 4:40 pm

    Love the pictures of the Riva waterfront, Anda! It looks almost tropical with the palm trees. The Hermitage Caves look intriguing as well. They look impossible to reach! Hence the name, I guess.

    And wow, I can’t imagine how cool it must have been to stay inside a 1,700-year-old compound! Do you know how old the hotel itself is?

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 19, 2017 at 4:53 pm

      The building itself goes back to the 16th century, but it became a hotel at the beginning of the 20th century only.

      Reply
  14. Upeksha

    August 18, 2017 at 3:11 pm

    I think of Dubrovnik whenever someone says Croatia, but Split looks amazing too. Great photos. I love the one with all the boats parked in a row.

    Reply
  15. Rob+Ann at TravelLatte(.net)

    August 18, 2017 at 1:57 pm

    We wanted to visit Split even before reading this. But wow – now we want to go even more! Just that first picture sells us. It looks just like the sort of place we love exploring. Toss in the history and Roman influences, the beautiful historic center, and those amazing views…forget visiting, we could move there! (Our list of potential new home towns is starting to get long… 😉 So glad you shared this gem with us!

    Reply
  16. Lolo

    August 18, 2017 at 1:15 pm

    Your pictures are beautiful!! Our day was soo incredibly hot, I didn’t take very good pictures because I just wanted to get in the water haha – looks like we defintely missed a great look out point! Will have to make note of that one!!

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 19, 2017 at 4:57 pm

      I’ve heard Croatia may get very hot in summer, Lolo. I’m glad I didn’t have to experience that heat myself though.

      Reply
  17. Anisa

    August 18, 2017 at 1:09 pm

    Split looks so beautiful (great pictures Anda!) and looks like there is lots to see. It will definitely be on my itinerary when I make it to Croatia.

    Reply
  18. Agness of eTramping

    August 18, 2017 at 5:29 am

    Wow! You’ve definitely convinced me to visit Split as soon as possible. Excellent post, Anda! 😉

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 18, 2017 at 11:59 am

      Thanks, Agnes. Split is not far from you, I guess you can go anytime.

      Reply
  19. Rhonda Albom

    August 18, 2017 at 3:19 am

    You did well by staying at Hotel Slavija and taking their advice of using a private guide. I find that private guides save time and disappointment by making your touring more efficient and avoiding missing significant places.

    Reply
    • Anda Galffy

      August 18, 2017 at 12:01 pm

      I agree, Rhonda. The locals always know more than you can possibly find out by doing your own research. Besides, they always have some connections that may come in handy sometimes.

      Reply

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