Planning a trip to Croatia? Don’t miss these 17 top things to do in Split, including iconic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and unique local experiences.
Split is a city that feels alive, with something around every corner to capture your heart. Want to relax on a sun-soaked beach? How about diving into epic history or exploring a hidden hilltop trail? Whether you’re craving adventure or laid-back vibes, Split offers something amazing for any taste.
And the best way to experience it? By car. Zip around with ease, hit the must-see spots, and make your own schedule. Ready for the journey of a lifetime?
1. Stroll the Streets of Old Town Split
📍 Location
Split’s Old Town is more than just old – it’s a living, breathing relic nestled within the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace. As you meander through the cobbled streets, you’ll encounter stunning architecture, charming cafes, and lively squares. Key highlights include the Cathedral of St. Domnius and the bustling People’s Square, where locals gather to socialize.
Driving here? You’ll want to park at the nearby marina (10 HRK/1.40 USD per hour), a 2-minute walk from the old town.
2. Browse Split’s Open-Air Food Markets
📍 Location
Open-air markets are among the most worthy places to visit in Split. The Pazar Market operates daily from 6 am to 2 pm, offering a vibrant array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Just a short walk away, the Ribarnica Fish Market showcases the freshest seafood, perfect for a culinary adventure.
You’ll find parking options at the Riva promenade, a 5-minute walk from the markets.
3. Immerse Yourself in the ‘Game of Thrones’ Museum
📍 Location
Located on Bosanska Street, the museum pulls you into the rich, mythical world of Westeros. Step into a space filled with over 100 props and replicas from the series – life-sized dragon heads, costumes worn by key characters, and battle-scarred swords. The dim lights and scent of lavender transport you right into the heart of the Seven Kingdoms. Admission is 110 HRK/16 USD, and you can choose to explore the museum on your own or join a guided tour.
If driving, park your car along Livanjska Ulica, just an 8-minute walk from the museum.
4. Relax at Bačvice Beach
📍 Location
Bačvice Beach is a lively destination known for its shallow waters and vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun after a sightseeing session. The beach is lined with bars and cafes, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or snack.
If you’re feeling adventurous, join a game of “picigin”.
Renting a car provides easy access to the beach and attractions along the stunning Dalmatian coast. You may park at Parking Bačvice (6 HRK/0.9 USD per hour).
5. Hike and Explore Marjan Hill
📍 Location
What to do in Split if you like exciting walks? Hike Marjan Hill, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling city.
This park is dotted with ancient churches and stunning viewpoints that reveal panoramas of the Adriatic Sea and the city below. As you hike, you can explore the historic St. Nicholas Church or simply enjoy the tranquility of the pine forests. The hike to the summit, Telegrin, is about 178 meters high and involves climbing approximately 314 steps.
For parking, heat to Trumbiceva obala, a 2-minute walk from Marjan Hill Stairs.
6. Admire the Diocletian’s Palace
📍 Location
Diocletian’s Palace is a monumental testament to Roman architecture and history, forming the heart of Split.
Built in the late 3rd century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a palace but a living part of the city, filled with shops, cafes, and residences. You can wander through its ancient corridors and discover stunning structures like the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the Peristyle.
Guided tours are available at 120 HRK/17 USD. Parking is available at the nearby Riva promenade for 10 HRK/1.40 USD per hour.
7. Climb the Cathedral of Saint Dominus
📍 Location
At the heart of Diocletian’s Palace stands the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Dominus. The true highlight? The climb to the top of the bell tower. After ascending nearly 200 steps, you’ll be greeted by one of the most spectacular views in all of Split.
From here, you can see the terracotta rooftops of Old Town, the azure sea, and beyond. Admission to the cathedral is 78 HRK/11 USD, plus you can visit Bell Tower and Treasury with this ticket.
The nearest parking is Parkiralište Zagrebačka (6 HRK/0.9 USD per hour), a 3-minute walk from the cathedral.
8. Explore the Palace Cellars
📍 Location
The list of worthy activities in Split wouldn’t be complete without visiting the cellars, located beneath the Diocletian’s Palace. These subterranean halls were once a vital part of the emperor’s home, and today they hold treasures from centuries past. Here you can walk through vast stone chambers that once stored wine and supplies.
The cellars also played a starring role in ‘Game of Thrones,’ as the very spot where Daenerys kept her dragons.
Entry is 50 HRK/7 USD, and the cellars are open from 9 am to 8 pm, offering a wide parking area a minute’s walk away.
9. Master SUP
📍 Location
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a must-try activity in Split, offering a unique way to explore the city’s stunning coastline and hidden beaches of the Adriatic.
Red Adventures Croatia and Given2Fly Adventures are two operators that provide high-quality inflatable SUP boards. With prices starting at 220 HRK/38.50 USD for a day rental, you can choose from various tour options, including paddling around Marjan Hill or even night tours with LED-lit boards.
To reach the SUP rental location, park your car at Parkiralište Bijankinijeva (10 HRK/1.40 USD per hour) and head to the Red Adventures Croatia office.
10. Touch the Beauty at Jaman Art Center
📍 Location
Step into the world of Danijel Jaman, one of Split’s most imaginative artists, at the Jaman Art Center. In this vibrant gallery, you’ll find everything from vivid canvas paintings to quirky phone cases, all stamped with Jaman’s distinctive style. It’s the kind of place where you may get lost in the wild world of Western pop culture.
Open from 10 am to 11 pm daily, the center offers unique pieces of art for sale! The nearest parking is Parkiralište Sveti Frane.
11. Drive to Krka National Park
📍 Location
For a day trip, hop in your rental car and drive to Krka National Park. Just a 1.5-hour journey from Split, this natural wonderland is home to seven breathtaking waterfalls, with the crown jewel being Skradinski Buk, where you can even take a swim! Tickets for the park cost 56-155 HRK/8-22 USD depending on the season.
Driving yourself means you can stop, explore, and soak in the beauty of Dalmatia on your own schedule. Parking is plentiful at the park’s main entrance, Lozovac.
12. Wander Through the Museum of Senses
📍 Location
Get ready to have your mind blown at the Museum of Senses, one of the most exciting Split Croatia attractions! Step into a room where everything is upside down, or challenge your balance in the dizzying rotating tunnel. With 50 attractions designed to spark your imagination, it’s a fun, educational experience for both kids and adults alike.
The museum is open from 10 am to 8 pm daily, and tickets cost 95 HRK/13.50 USD for adults. You may park at the nearby Mall of Split Parking.
13. Explore the Ruins of Klis Fortress
📍 Location
Perched high above Split, Klis Fortress introduces you to the fierce battles. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll recognize this fortress as Meereen, where Daenerys Targaryen unleashed her dragons. Beyond the cinematic fame, Klis offers sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding mountains, making the climb well worth it.
The fortress is open year-round from 9 am to 7 pm in summer and 10 am to 4 pm in winter, with tickets priced at 60 HRK/8.50 USD for adults. Free parking is available at Klis Fortress Parking.
14. Tour the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island
📍 Location
If you’re dreaming of otherworldly beauty, head to the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island. The cave’s mesmerizing blue light is nothing short of magical. But this isn’t just a simple cave visit. A full-day boat tour whisks you away from Split’s harbor, visiting the Blue Cave as well as other stunning spots like the Blue Lagoon and Hvar Island.
Tours depart daily around 8 am during the high season, and tickets range from 700 HRK/100 USD to 950 HRK/135 USD, depending on the operator. You can park your car near Split’s harbor, where tours usually start.
15. Visit the Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace
📍 Location
The Peristyle is an open-air courtyard that once served as Emperor Diocletian’s private entryway, and visiting this place is among the best things to do in Split. You can wander through the ancient ruins surrounded by Roman columns, stand where emperors once stood, and soak in the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parking is available near the coast, a 5-minute walk from the Peristyle.
16. Take a Zipline Ride
📍 Location
Zipline through the dramatic cliffs of Omis, just a short drive from Split. With eight lines stretching over 2,100 meters, you’ll soar above the Cetina River at heights of up to 150 meters. The longest line is a heart-pounding 700 meters long!
You’ll need to arrive at the Zipline Croatia base for a safety briefing before heading up to the launch point.
Tours are available year-round, with prices starting at 500 HRK/72 USD per person. Use the street slots along Ul. Josipa Pupačića for parking.
17. Admire Photography at Fotoklub Split
📍 Location
Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, Fotoklub Split is a hidden gem that’s been capturing life through a lens since 1911. This isn’t just a gallery – it’s a window into Croatia’s soul. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply appreciate art that moves you, Fotoklub Split is a must-visit.
The gallery is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm, and the best part? Admission is free. Plus, you’ll find convenient nearby parking along Ul. bana Josipa Jelačića.
Short Overview
Exploring Split is a true adventure, and renting a car makes it even better! You’ll have the freedom to visit each destination at your own pace without breaking your budget.
Let’s compare: a bus ticket to Bačvice Beach costs 14 HRK/2 USD, while driving there only uses about 8 HRK/1.1 USD in fuel. For Krka National Park, a bus ticket costs 110 HRK/16 USD, but fuel will set you back just 70 HRK/10 USD. What’s more, with a car, you avoid crowded buses and schedules.
Ready to hit the road? Head over to Rental24h.com and book your perfect ride for an unforgettable journey!