10 Things to do in Split
Sometimes the anticipation of traveling can be more exciting than the experience itself; Croatia is not one of those places.
We had been looking forward to Croatia for awhile, and I had a sneaking suspicion that it would not disappoint. From the plane window, you see hundreds of sailboats dotting the channels between island after island. Red-tiled houses congregate around medieval churches, clocktowers rising above all the rest. Stepping out of the airport doors, the laid-back vibe is palpable. There are dozens of ways you could go about spending your time here. We chose Split as our home base for the month and planned day or overnight trips from there.
Split, the second largest city in Croatia does have a sizeable tourism industry, but the city is also the economic center of Dalmatia and home to several universities. It’s a place where everyday Croatians are going about their lives. We recommend staying in or close to the city center as that’s the most walkable part of the city.
Here are a few of our favorite things to do while in Split:
Things to do in Split
Explore Diocletian’s Palace
Split is home to the most complete palace that remains of the ancient Empire. Built on the shores of the Adriatic in the forth century, many of the original Roman structures remain, and each era has left its mark on the old city built within the ruins. Spend the day exploring the narrow corridors, courts, and cellars of the former fortress. Hire a guide to gain more perspective or find a coffee and a quiet step to sit on.
Climb the Bell Tower
Located just off the Peristyle, the bell tower of the Cathedral of St. Domnius rises 57 meters commanding some of the best views of the old town. Pay around $6 USD and make the short trip to the top.
Spend a day on the water
There is no shortage of boat tours leaving from the Split harbor. Spend a full or half day touring the islands by speedboat, go for a sunset cruise, or catch a ferry to one of the many islands.
Find a Beach
While some of the best beaches are on the islands, you don’t have to go far to spend a day in the sun. Most of the crowds center around the nearby beaches of Bacvice and Ovcice, but we recommend making the walk or catching an Uber to Kašjuni at the end of the Marjan peninsula.
Climb Marjan Hill
On the peninsula to the west of the old town is a hill that overlooks the city and harbor. Follow the meandering streets out of town and make the climb through the trees to one of the overlooks or the flag pole on top. There’s a cafe about one third of the way up with sweeping views of Split, or take your own coffee and find a bench along the way.
Pet the Croatian Cats
It feels like the whole country collectively adopted cats by the way they stroll from café to café. Most are friendly, and the ones with notches in their ears have had their shots and been “fixed.”
Sip on a Coffee
Coffee is synonymous with Croatian culture, and it’s perfectly acceptable to spend an hour or two in a café any time of the day.
Take a Day Trip
Split is perfectly positioned on the Central Dalmatian Coast to reach the islands, Southern and Northern Dalmatia, as well as continental Croatia with ease. We put together a whole article on some of our favorite day and weekend trips from Split.
Rainy Days
Spa Day
Tori looked around and was able to find a five star resort nearby that offers day passes during the week when demand is low. Around $30 USD/person will get you access to the whirlpool tubs, indoor and outdoor pool, sun terrace, Onsen bath, sauna, steam room, and plunge pool.
Mall of Split
There’s a surprising amount to do here. The movie theater is quite good. It can show films in 4D, the major releases are in English with Croatian subtitles, and the prices are affordable. In addition to the three levels of shops, there are several cafes and bars to lounge at. On the top floor, there’s a cake shop with a terrace that’s perfect for sampling, sipping on a cappuccino, and taking in the views of the mountains.
It’s about a $6 USD Uber each way, or you can catch a complimentary bus ride from the Riva downtown.
Coffee
Split Coffee Roasters — Probably my favorite cup of coffee in Split. Perfect for a quick latte on the go, and they accept card!
D16 — This is the best place in town to bring a laptop and work for a couple hours. Popular with expats and locals alike--the languages around you will shift by the hour.
kava2 — This one is a little out of the way. There’s limited seating, and it seems to be a little more of a local hangout.
Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar — While this isn’t really a coffee shop, this quiet hangout is full of cosy nooks to chill and catch up with friends or make a few new ones.
Restaurants
Basta — A trendy bar on the west side of the harbor with small plates, pizza, salads, and sweeping views of the city and boats passing by.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar — An upscale dining experience in the heart of the old town with an excellent wine selection.
Pizzeria Portas — An affordable pizza option in a quiet corner of the palace.
BEPA! — A trendy brunch spot. One of the few places you can find avocado.
MakaMaka Acai & Poke Bar — Exactly what it sounds like lol.
Milky Split Palačinke — All kinds of crêpes just outside of the city center along the beaches.
